A car will be ready for you at the airport and you will drive up and down through the “Boot” , Italy’s nickname due to its curious shape, making all the stops you wish. Choosing this kind of package,you are free to stop and enjoy any place you will encounter during your travel itinerary as you see fit.

This package is perfect for those who enjoy independence while on holiday and the chance to visit Italy as they please, without worrying about any schedules.
Trips 2 Italy fly and Drive packages give you the advantage of low cost travel plus the added convenience and complete freedom of a self-driven car.

Below, select your favourite Italy fly and drive package. You will be able to purchase it directly on our Italy Travel Online-Shop or if you prefer  call us at 1 – 866 GO ITALY (46-48259) for any questions or further information you may need.

4 Days - 3 Nights Italy Fly & Drive Tour Packages

Explore and taste Tuscany countryside by bike tour - Starting from $ 1,339 per person(*)
After a marvellous bike route, you can stop and experiment with a hands on approach to local cuisine by preparing a perfect Tuscan style dinner. This is the ideal package for combining sport with food in a novel and amusing stay

Explore Tuscany countryside by bike tour - Starting at $ 1,339 per Person(*)
The Tuscan countryside is an encompassing call to those who love outdoor life. With this program you can put your sporting ability to the test by following our expert guides on trekking and mountain bike tours.

Flavours of Marche tour  - Starting at $ 928 per Person(*)
This short tour reach the most suggestive places of the Marche country-side. You'll be able to dip into the flavours of the traditional recipes with a short cooking class where you'll measure your ability of chef with some traditional and undiscovered dishes.

Flavours of Langhe tour - Starting at $ 804 per Person(*)
The Langhe is a land made to be tasted slowly, to be discovered day by day through its great wines that made her famous around the world, through its impressive castles and its unforgettable dishes. You will dream to be back there again.

Flavours of Venice tour - Starting at $ 1,159 per Person(*)
A program aimed at letting you see Venice under a different light, from the point of view of its tradional flavours by means of cooking courses and wine tasting set in locations renowned for their atmosphere and character. This program can be extended. 

Gourmet Umbria Tour  - Starting at $ 876 per Person(*)
Discover, cook and taste the traditional flavours of Umbria by visiting their places of origin and combining an interest for the countryside with a love of good food. 

Milano Shopping Tour - Starting at $ 976 per Person(*)
Milan is universally famous for being the world's fashion capital. This program has been designed with the shopaholic in mind and for those who love the frenetic pace of life. We suggest you combine this program with "A taste of Lake Maggiore".

Siena, Chianti and the Palio tour - Starting at $ 1,428 per Person(*)
Siena is the city of the Palio horse race and provide the opportunity to live out this experience during the days Palio takes place gives visitors a great emotion. Blend the peace and harmony of the Chianti hills with the vivacity and excitement in the city while waiting for the horse race to start and you will take back with you a unique event that you have never experienced in your life.

Undiscovered Umbria Tour - Starting at $ 892 per Person(*)
This short tour is dedicated to discovering this region and its beauty like Gubbio, a jewels of Umbria, Spello, the "pink town" and Bevagna's "Gaite", the small quarters of the village, where every year during the last week of June, you can live the amazing experience of the trip back in the past.

A taste of Apulia tour  - Starting at $ 879 per Person(*)
The Apulia region, the heel of Italy, holds many surprises and preserves both major artistic treasures as well as naturalistic beauties too. This first approach to Apulia is an eno-gastronomic one however it will instill in you the desire to discover more of this region

A taste of Cinque Terre Tour- Starting at $ 694 per Person(*)
Cinque Terre: a land that has been reclaimed from the sea, breathtaking panoramas, dreamy spots that you will fall in love with. The perfect itinerary for those who want an active holday with the aroma of the sea.

A taste of Florence Tour - Starting at $ 1,1125 per Person(*)
The famous city of Florence is always a discovery, a place of art and culture. If you have never seen florence this short stay is for you. You'll be able to loose yourself in a ancient dream, where the city describes itself.

A taste of Lake Como tour - Starting at $ 1,108 per Person(*)
This tour entirely focused on Como Lake is dedicated to those of you who wish to discover or deepen their knowledge of this territory, rich in historic events and which today is dedicated to tourism. Find out why Mr. George Clooney decided to own a villa here!

A taste of Lake Maggiore tour - Starting at $ 991 per Person(*)
The most charming aspects of this famous corner of Italy are united in this short tour.

A taste of Parma & Modena tour - Starting at $ 1,034 per Person(*)
The splendour of the art and architecture of this city together with its great tastes and flavours is capable of conquering even the most disenchanted traveller. A region that is not well known but which is capable of instilling strong emotions. Those who love eating well will find their paradise here.

A taste of Piemonte tour - Starting at $ 946 per Person(*)
The elegance of Turin together with the charm of the hills that surround it are an invitation to those who love art and excellent cuisine to indulge their taste buds along yet to be discovered trails that are full of fascination.

A taste of Tuscany tour - Starting at $ 875 per Person(*)
A short stay aimed at inviting you to enjoy at your leisure the charm of Tuscany with its many characteristics and flavours that are to be found both in its lesser known towns as well as in its enchanting cities of art. 

A taste of Umbria tour - Starting at $ 768 per Person(*)
A smaller region and a sister region to Tuscany where sacred and profane melt into a merry-go-round of unforgettable tastes and colours. The ideal itinerary for those seeking tranquility and purity in a region that is still relatively undiscovered. A perfect location also for families with children.

A taste of Veneto tour  - Starting at $ 1,108 per Person(*)
The Veneto is not just Venice. The marvellous gems that are enclosed in this region need to be discovered slowly. We will help you in their discovery with our best guides. 

7 Days - 6 Nights Italy Fly & Drive tour packages

Independent Tuscany wine tour - Starting at $ 1,788 per Person(*)
This tour will allow you to discover on your own the road of the Classic Tuscany between the Chianti area and the Nobile and Brunello red wines area.The pleasure toget lost into the small towns of the great red wines enjoying, the traditional dishes of Tuscany country-side.

8 Days - 7 Nights Italy Fly & Drive tour packages

Highlights of Tuscany wellness tour - Starting at $ 2,086 per Person(*)
This 7 nights stay provides the opportunity to discover Tuscany's art treasures while at the same time relaxing and enjoying anti stress techniques. Ideal for honeymooners or those that want to escape the frenetic pace of life while not forgetting the pleasures of art and culture.

Self walking Amalfi Coast tour - Starting at $ 1,644 per Person(*)
For the nature lovers, this walking tour, promises natural trials in a suggestive scenary like the Amalfi cost, across small green paths which go down at the sea. During your itineraries you will discover ancient villages and spectacular fjords, chestnut groves and unespected waterfalls.

Small gems of Umbria and Tuscany tour - Starting at $ 1,444 per Person(*)
In a week long tour you will have the good fortune to discover some smaller jewels of these two sister regions, amids the harmony of a territory that has not yet been discovered by mass tourism and that host both artistic treasures and unforgettable gastromic delicacies.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Verona, Padua, Brenta River, Stra, Dolo, Mira, Malcontenta, Padua, Trieste, Vicenza, Valpolicella Wine Region

Italy Escorted Tour Departures (Click on the dates for Trips2Italy pricing and details)

TRAVEL ITINERARY:

DAY 1 (Monday - Friday): MILAN, VERONA, PADUA

Meet and greet with your group early morning at a designated meeting point in the historical center and by motor coach will head to romantic Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet. There'll be a walking tour of the town, stopping at Castelvecchio, an old castle on the river, Piazza Bra with Verona’s Arena, an intact Roman amphitheater, Piazza dei Signori, Palace of the Tribunali and the Juliet house, where you can see the Juliet balcony and touch a statue of Juliet for luck in love. After lunch (on your own,) the tour will continue to Padua. Home to one of the oldest university in Italy and the famous venerated Saint Anthony of Padua, you'll take a sightseeing tour of the major sites, including the Basilica of St Anthony, the Prato Della Valle square, Piazza dei Signori and the Caffe Pedrocchi, famous haunt of writers and artists. You'll spend the night in Padua.

DAY 2 (Tuesday - Saturday): CRUISE ON THE BRENTA RIVER, STRA, DOLO, MIRA, MALCONTENTA

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll board a ferry to tour the old merchant routes on the Brenta River that connects Padua to Venice. You'll pass through famous villas and charming towns on this relaxing ride. The first stop will be at Stra, with a visit to the Villa Pisani art museum. You'll visit Dolo next, home to 16th century mills, time for lunch (not included) and continue on to Mira, passing by quaint villages and villas and crossing the Lock of Dolo. We'll visit Villa Widmann and Villa Foscari (optional, not included), before disembarking in Malcontenta. You'll take a minibus back to your hotel in Padua and get a good night's rest.

DAY 3 (Wednesday - Sunday): TRIESTE

You'll enjoy breakfast before departing to Trieste, a city and seaport on the border of Italy and Slovenia that belonged to the Austrian-Hungarian Empire until the end of the First World War. Its position and historical past offer unique architectural and cultural features and a rich literary heritage. The tour will follow the major points of interest, including the Castle Miramare, Piazza Italia, the Red Palace, the City Hall, the Roman Amphitheater and the Victory Lighthouse overlooking the Adriatic Sea. You'll have free time for lunch (on your own) and to stroll the old town streets. Perhaps you'll visit one of the famed literary cafes, where James Joyce wrote, or take pictures of the stunning blends of architecture. The day will end back in Padua.

DAY 4 (Thursday - Monday): VICENZA, VALPOLICELLA WINE REGION, FUMANE, SANT’AMBROGIO IN VALPOLICELLA, MILAN

After breakfast, we'll leave Padua to take a sightseeing tour of Vicenza, home to master architect Andrea Palladio. You'll walk past such lovelies as his Basilica, Piazza del Signori, Palace Chericati and the Villa Capra, probably one of the most important Palladio’s works, as well the old town district. Valpolicella wine region is our next stop: a series of villages and vineyards that produce some of the finest Italian wines such as the Valpolicella and the Amarone wines. We'll stop at a wine cellar for a tasting of their products and stop for lunch (not included) in Fumane, a small town of Roman origin with beautiful architecture.  In the afternoon we will head back to Milan passing by Sant’Ambrogio, another delightful small town in the Valpolicella region. The tour, and our services, will end in Milan.

PACKAGE INCLUDES: 
- Transportation by Deluxe motor coach as per itinerary;
- Accommodation in 4 Star Hotel in double/twin rooms with private facilities;
- Buffet breakfast daily;
- Multilingual Tour-Escort (with minimum 9 participants);
- Panoramic Visits as per itinerary;
- Local Taxes and service Charges.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED: 
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
- Beverages.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums, Tips, Extras.
- Porterage Service.
- All what is not mentioned in “PACKAGE INCLUDES”.

GENERAL CONDITION: 
Multi language escorted group tour with minimum 9 participants.
If less than 9 participants only private transportation with English speaking Driver.
All departure are Guaranteed.

(*) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Children’s, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply).

You have just began a new life together and you both need to celebrate  it  in the most  perfect way.  Trips2Italy wants you to feel special during this trip, THE trip you will remember the rest of your life. We’ll provide you with the special treatment you and your loved one deserve as we help you plan an amazing travel experience in Italy.

Trips2Italy will be pleased to help you plan a unique and unforgettable honeymoon. As an added bonus, when you book with Trips2Italy, you can also take advantage of our Honeymoon registry services . Your friends and family can send you a “postcard” for a set dollar amount towards your travel expenses.

Travel to our Honeymoon Registy

Select your favorite honeymoon package below, and feel free to call us at 1 – 866 GO ITALY (46-48259) for any questions or further information you may need.

Cleopatra and Antony Honeymoon From $1,294 Usd per person(*)
"Eternity was in our lips and yes, Bliss in our brows bent"
Rome, a magnificent city with a past of rich history, strength and power that still lives in the glorious buildings, monuments, squares, fountains and parks all around the capital. Enjoy your Honeymoon in a place so magical that will be stuck in your memory and will crawl under your skin just like the eternal love you will have for your better half!

Paolo & Francesca Honeymoon From $1,224 Usd per person(*)
“Love that exempts no one loved from loving in return”
Are you looking for an elegant city to spend your extraordinary Honeymoon? Florence is the right one for you, if you are seeking for a classy gateway where you can spend romantic time with your loved one and enjoy some great art and delicious Italian food at the same glance! 

Romeo & Juliet Honeymoon  From $1,404 usd per person(*)
"How silver-sweet sound lovers' tongues by night, Like softest music to attending ears!"
What could be more romantic than cuddling with your newlywed in a Gondola while admiring the beauty of the most romantic city in the world and while listening to a serenade played just for the two of you?.  All this is Venice and Trips2Italy will fly you to the Venetian canals for a Honeymoon as special as you are!

Lancelot & Guinevere Honeymoon From $1,792 Usd per person(*)
“Love has many faces. I may look on you differently, but not with less love”
The country of good food, the country of fashion, the country of art, the country of  ancient history, the country of beauty but, most of all, the country of love… there is no better destination than Italy for a perfect honeymoon. Italy, like the definition of “ love” according to Guinevere, has many faces for you to enjoy, all of them with the same affection and passion of a country which is one of a kind.

Ulysses & Penelope Honeymoon From $1,288 Usd per person(*)
“I love you with everything I am, everything I’ve been, and everything I hope to be.” 
Are you looking for an alternative honeymoon in an unconventional destination? Do you want your memories to be unique and unrepeatable? Sicily, and its capital Palermo is your Honeymoon choice! Go visit Italy and explore one of its major islands to discover the beauty of a lively and energetic region that will just bring more sun into your new happy family! Sicily will delight you with its sea, with its orange groves and its delicacies for a Honeymoon to remember!

Napoleon & Josephine Honeymoon From $1,533 Usd per person(*)
“…a thousand kisses, mio dolce amor! But give me none back for they set my blood on fire”. 
Five picturesque villages concentrated in a thin piece of land that will offer unforgettable landscapes and breathtaking views. Particularly suggestive and perfectly ideal for your honeymoon is the characteristic “Love Path” where you will be able to take the most romantic walks with your better half. A relaxing vacation in a spectacular place.

** Rate based on New York (NYC) departure gates. Alternative u.s. departure cities available upon request.

Now $879 Usd per person*     

Enjoy your Roman Holidays visiting the powerful structure of the Coliseums and the Roman Forum, the suggestive Catacombs and the elegant Vatican City and its Vatican Museums. Taste delicious “spaghetti cacio e pepe” and “Matriciana Pasta” in one of the restaurants around Piazza Navona and then go contemplate the majestic “Altare della Patria” in Piazza Venezia.

Don’t forget to pass by the Trevi Fountain and throw a coin in it to make sure you will return! Then eat a gelato while walking around Via dei Condotti or Via del Corso for some Italian shopping. 5 days in Rome will make you fall in love with a city where history, memories and feelings are perpetually preserved.

What is Included:
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 4 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel centrally located in Rome
- Daily breakfast
- Rome Open Tour
- Local Taxes and service Charges
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $1,124 Usd per Person*     

Naples is an everyday carnival. The streets are always full of colors, voices and perfumes where art, tradition and culture melt together creating a city unique in its character.

 Visit “San Gregorio Armeno” street, where Christmas never ends and the artisans produce Nativities all year around. Then take a walk along “Spaccanapoli” street and introduce yourself to the heart of Naples. Grab a gelato and stroll on “Caracciolo” street along the seaside while admiring “Dell’Ovo” Castle and the blue sea that was inspiration for many Italian musicians.

Enjoy a day in the archeological city of Pompeii and one hiking on the fantastic Vesuvius Volcano. End your days tasting a well deserved dinner made of “Puttanesca Spaghetti” “Ragu Sauce Pasta” or “Vongole Spaghetti” or, of course… Pizza!

What is Included
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 4 nights accommodation in a 4 star Hotel centrally located in Naples
- Daily breakfast
- Naples guided tour
- Local Taxes and service Charges.
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $1,234 Usd per Person*     

Trips2Italy & Ski 2 Italy will bring you to one of the most astonishing sight in the Alps. In Cortina D’Ampezzo, 8 hours of sun a day exist for you to enjoy exciting black slopes for experts as well as fun green slopes for beginners.

Enjoy a completely different skiing experience by matching together breathtaking Italian landscapes, great food and outstanding wine. A perfect combination to make your winter holidays special and different!

Cortina D’Ampezzo offers a blending of nature and sport, an ideal spot for families, for dynamic groups of young friends, as well as for romantic couples looking for an alternative destination for their retreat!

What is Included
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 7 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel centrally located in Cortina d'Ampezzo
- Daily breakfast
- Return transfer Venice airport - Cortina D'Ampezzo
- Local Taxes and service Charges.
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $1,212 Usd per Person*     

Start delighting your heart in Rome by tasting delicious “Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe”, “Coda alla Vaccinara”, “Saltimbocca alla Romana”, “Carbonara Spaghetti”, “Amatriciana Pasta” while sipping some “Vino dei castelli” (Castles’ wine).

Then, move on to Florence where the artistic and religious personality of the city can offer you a profound cultural and spiritual experience thanks to its amazing churches and cathedrals; don’t miss “Santa Croce” Church, “Santa Maria del Fiore” Church, “Santissima Annunziata” Church, “Santa Maria Novella” Church, just to name a few.

Finally, fall in love unexpectedly or fall in love again in the most romantic city in the world, Venice. Get a gondola and go visit the charming islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. Take a walking tour of Venice to discover the hidden secrets and legends of Ponte dei Sospiri, Canal Grande, San Marco and the Doge Palace and come back home as a renewed person!

What is Included:
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 3 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel centrally located in Rome
- 2 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel centrally located in Florence
- 2 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel centrally located in Venice
- Daily breakfast
- Transfer Rome airport - Hotel
- 2nd cl High speed train Rome - Florence
- 2nd cl High speed train Florence - Venice
- Local Taxes and service Charges.
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $999 Usd per Person*     

Amuse yourself with the breathtaking Tuscan country side landscapes while going from cellar to cellar to taste refined wines, olives oil, salamis, cheeses, bruschettas, prosciuttos and wild boar sausages. This five day culinary extravaganza will expose you to the one of the nicest characteristics of Italy: the food and wine!!

Try this experience to satisfy your appetite and fulfill your heart with colors, perfumes, tastes and sounds that will be stuck in your memory forever.

What is Included:
- 7 days of Car Rental Economy Fully Inclusive Coverage included
- 2 nights accommodation in a characteristic Tuscan Farmhouse
- 2 nights accommodation in a historical castle in the Chianti region
- 2 nights accommodation in a historical castle in the Florence area
- Daily breakfast
- Welcome Drink
- 2 Traditional Dinners
- Visit and wine tasting at a family run winery with wine, olive oil and grappa tasting
- Local products tasting in a historical residence
- “bruschette e prosciutto” tasting paired with Chianti wine
- Florence private walking tour
- Local Taxes and service Charges.
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $1,072 Usd per Person*     

Palermo is a melting pot of many different cultures that throughout the years have been conquering the island and the city, loving it; fighting for it and leaving strong traditions that still coexist today and make Sicily and Sicilians an unique spot in the world and an exceptional population.

Be amazed by the numerous churches and cathedrals, go visit the “Politeama Theatre”, the “Massimo Theatre” and then go have some fun at the “Puppets Theatre”.

Discover some history at the “Normans’ Palace” and “Abatellis’ Palace”. Don’t miss the abundance and fullness of flowers and plants at the “Orto Botanico” and, of course take a walk in the traditional markets of “Ballaro’” and “Vucciria” to delight your mouth with tasty local vegetables, fruits. “panelle”, “arancine”, “granita” and impeccable fishes!

What is Included
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 4 nights accommodation in a 4 star Hotel centrally located in Palermo
- Daily breakfast
- Return private transfer Palermo Airport – Hotel
- Local Taxes and service Charges.
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $702 Usd per Person*     

Five picturesque small villages, Cinque Terre, really look like oil on canvas. Come get lost in the enchanted worlds of Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia and Riomaggiore!

Cinque Terre is an UNESCO world heritage site. These five villages are an amusement park for adults because, a part from their external beauty, they are an alternative tourist destination.

Monterosso is the most alive of the villages, good for clubbing and nightlife fun. Vernazza is well known for being a quiet fishing village where you can taste delicious seafood and relax. Corniglia is up on the hill; from this village you can enjoy breathtaking views and landscapes. Manarola is ideal for relaxing walks as well as exciting trekking. Finally Riomaggiore, the most famous of the villages, is home of the Cinque Terre National Park and it is also the most touristic of them. Riomaggiore offers the comforts of a classic vacation hotspot: sightseeing, lots of restaurants, and numerous services to add delight to your stay in the Liguria region.

What is Included:
- 4 days of Car Rental Economy Fully Inclusive Coverage included
- 3 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel located in Cinque Terre
- Daily breakfast
- 1 full Day licensed tour guide assistance;
- Cinque Terre Wine tasting
- 2 days “Cinque Terre Card” including ” including admission to the Cinque Terre National Park, access to pathways, and train transfers in the park
- Boat ticket Riomaggiore-Portovenere-Monterosso
- Local Taxes and service Charges
What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $916 Usd per Person*     

Come to Venice with Trips2Italy and get lost with your loved one in the charming narrow streets and share your romance in an unforgettable 5 days vacation.

Go visit the charming islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. Take a walking tour of Venice to discover the hidden secrets and legends of Ponte dei Sospiri, Canal Grande, San Marco and the Doge Palace. Take this great opportunity to live a romantic trip in the city that was once defined as synonymous of “music!”

What is Included:
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 4 nights accommodation in a 3 or 4 star Hotel centrally located in Venice
- Daily breakfast
- Venice guided walking Tour
- Murano, Burano, Torcello Islands Boat tour
- Local Taxes and service Charges.

What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras.
- Tips and personal expenses.
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

NOW $994 Usd per Person*     

Florence still preserves its original aspects from the Middle Age and Renaissance where you can still walk in the same streets where Leonardo, Michelangelo and Raffaello strolled to get inspiration for their astonishing pieces of art.

You will be able to admire those and much more in the numerous museums that made Florence famous worldwide: the Uffizi Museum, the Accademia Gallery, the Museum of Modern Art at Palazzo Pitti, the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum, the Stibbert Museums and many others. Enjoy this opportunity to get to know a city that was home of the most famous artists in the world and take the time to go discover the fantastic Tuscan country side, another piece of art. Don’t forget to taste the very many wines this region has to offer and accompany those with a tasty “ribollita” or “fiorentina steak!”

What is Included:
- Airfare Round Trip from New York (**)
- 4 nights accommodation in a 3 star Hotel centrally located in Florence
- Daily breakfast
- Return private transfer Florence airport - Hotel
- Local Taxes and service Charges

What is not Included:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes assessed by the Airlines.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums Tips, Extras
- Tips and personal expenses
- Anything NOT stated in "What is included"
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request.

Special terms and conditions:
* "Thanksgiving Italian Way" Limited offer valid for travel packages purchased from 11/23 to 11/29 2010. Rates per person based on two adult travelers sharing a double or twin bedded room on selected departures dates. Blackout dates, Minimum-night stays, airfare availability and other restrictions may apply. All reservations are subject to the availability at the time of booking and may be changed or discontinued without notice. No requests will be acted upon until full payment is received. Alternative accommodation and travel arrangements are available upon request (additional and different charges may apply).

You feel here a sensation of timelessness, as if the march of progress stopped, even in the most urbanized areas of the island. The coasts of the Region are high and rocky, with long, relatively straight stretches of coastline.

Almost 70% of the area is hilly and more then 10% is mountainous. The highest mountain is “Punta La Marmora” in the centre of the island. Sardinia is home to a wide variety of uncommon animals, such as the Albino Donkey (a small, completely white Donkey,) the Sardinian Deer (smaller then the European deer,) the wild fox and the Sardinian skink that lives only in Sardinia, Sicily and Maghreb. It looks like a lizard, with very short neck, small legs and a very long tail. The island has a typical Mediterranean climate and the wind Mistral from the northwest, dry and cool, makes the place a paradise for sailors.

The island has an extraordinary history and many different peoples – Phoenicians, Roman, Arab, Byzantines and Spanish – have influenced the Region. Today some 7,000 nuraghi - strange round tower fortress dating back 1500 BC - dot the Sardinian landscape. They belong to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sardinia is the only Italian region without highways, but the road network is well developed and the principal towns and the transport infrastructures are connected.  There is also a special steam train called “trenino verde” (little green train), which, in summer, slowly runs through the wildest part of the island and offers scenery you cannot enjoy from the road.

The main city is Cagliari, where two thousand year of history has left its mark, with archaeological ruins, medieval walls, superb churches and museums. Do not miss a visit to the castle - once the fortress of the town – the Cathedral and the San Pancrazio Tower.

Many Italian VIPs used to spend holidays in Sardinia. There are several ways to approach the Sardinian wonders. One of the best, surely, is boating along the coast. A great experience in Sardinia is the cuisine that ranges from the delicious sea food to wonderful meat dishes. Often ingredients like regional herbs are used to provide local color and flavour to meals.

A culinary local speciality? A cheese with worms! We are not joking, it exists, it is edible and many people find it yummy. If you want to know more about it, go on reading Cicero and we will satisfy your curiosity.

It has been a popular retreat for aristocrats and wealthy people since Roman times. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the popular American poet, wrote in 1872, regarding Como Lake:

“I ask myself is this a dream?
Will it all vanish in the air?
Is there a land of such supreme
And perfect beauty anywhere?”
    
That’s true: the “Lario”, the name of Como Lake, has a curious Y shape and is enchantingly beautiful.

From Bellagio to Como, from Varenna to Cernobbio, there are many are fairytale villages to be visited.
Como is very elegant and easily reachable, only an hour by train or by car from Milan. It is a good starting point to visit the many villages in the area. The historic centre is located inside the ancient city walls, where tourists find many shops and boutiques and plenty of nice cafes to rest their feet.

Como is considered the silk capital in Italy, thanks to its traditional textile industry. You will find magnificent silk souvenirs of the highest quality; perfect as a gift for Mom or that special someone.  In the western shore of the lake, you can visit Cernobbio and Tremezzo.

In Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is a real pearl, with a magnificent garden dating back to 17th century, full of orange trees, magnolias, enormous azaleas and camellias that bloom every spring, offering incredible multicoloured spectacles. It is also possible to enter the villa and visit a collection of paintings and sculptures.

You can then cross the lake by ferry, reaching the eastern shore, where I suggest beginning the visit from north with the Abbazia di Piona, a Cistercian abbey, a place full of peace not far from Colico.

Colico is a nice and dynamic village often crowed with tourists, particularly in spring and summer time. The northern part of the Lake of Como is an area rich in history and in nature, with beautiful landscapes.

Continuing to south, you will find pretty Varenna with Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi, with their magnificent gardens. Bellagio, set on the point where the western and eastern arms split, provides a magnificent panorama on the lake. The village is characterised by century-old buildings, narrow streets, stone stairways and gardens filled with colours. Here, mountains slope vertically into the deepest part of the lake, which reaches to a depth of 410 meters (1200 ft).

If you are culturally oriented you can also visit other sites of artistic interest, such as the basilica of San Giacomo, dating back 12th century, the Romanic San Giorgio and San Martino and the baroque San Giovanni. The Lake Como ferry service is a highly developed public transport system linking the dozens of small towns and villages dotted around the perimeter of the Lake. A tour of the lake by boat will allow you to experience its beauty from a unique point of view. Also, night cruises are available, allowing you to enjoy dinner while the lights from the shore reflect on the glassy surface.  

Como Lake is also a favourite destination for people who like water sports, from windsurfing, sailing to water skiing. Here, the wind “Breva” helps all the nautical disciplines.

Do not forget to include a couple of days in this wonderful area in your Italian trip. We will be glad to suggest how to make your visit an unforgettable experience.

Established in Mandello, a village on the shores of Lake Como, in 1921, the company’s first model was called 8HP Normale. The first of a series of highly successful bikes, Guzzi made a name for themselves in the racing world, with many world titles and trophies. 

In 1950, Moto Guzzi was the first motorcycle manufacturer in the world to install a wind tunnel at its Mandello del Lario plant, to test and develop the first truly modern aerodynamic motorcycles.

The company's unmistakable style returned to universal popularity in the nineties.

Some of the names given to Guzzi motorcycles have some links to Como Lake’s history, culture, and geography. Think about the comfortable “Breva”, named after the wind that heralds the arrival of summer over Como Lake. Or the modern “Griso”, named after a character of “I promessi sposi”, one of the most popular novel in Italian literature, set in Como Lake. Innovative technical solutions and style are the main feature of Guzzi two-wheels and guarantee strong emotions.

A Guzzi offers a unique riding experience, adapted for safe every day rides on smooth highways, as well as the dynamic companion of adventures on rougher roads. It is a motorbike in constant evolution, although it remains faithful to its spirit, substance, and personality. 

If you are keen on motorcycles, you cannot miss a visit to the Guzzi factory and museum, where you can experience the charm and history of this timeless cycle. The Moto Guzzi factory is right off in Lake Como Mandello del Lario.

This is one of the most beautiful areas in the world, and an ideal setting for the Guzzi Museum, where the aisles of classic motorcycles provide tempting eye candy for the enthusiast.

                   Tommaso De Poi
                       CEO Trips2Italy Group

This Cicero Newsletter feature :

- MANDELLO - GUZZI MORTORBIKE THE FLIGHT OF THE EAGLE

- LAKE COMO - LAGO DI COMO

- SARDINIA - OUTSIDE TIME AND HISTORY

- FOOD - CASU MARZU - THE SARDINIAN CHEESE with WORMS

- TRIPS 2 ITALY NOW ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER

The aim of his art was “Painting that which cannot be seen,” as the artist used to say.

He dedicated his entire life trying to paint something hidden beyond the visible reality. The result was Metaphysical Art, one of the most fertile cultural movements of 20^th century. This art wants to capture "the eternity of the moment" in paint.  

The exhibition examines more then 100 paintings in seven different sections. They come from some of the most important public and private collections, with works that have been rarely shown.

An important part of the exhibition is dedicated to a constant theme in De Chirico’s work: Nature, transfigured in a mythical key. In another section, it is possible to see figures evoked by mythology, from the Bible or from historic legends.

In de Chirico's paintings, unreal shadows play the important role of volumes and solids.

De Chirico is an extraordinary architect of hallucinatory and absurd cityscapes:  in some paintings, familiar objects from everyday life, such as armchairs and cupboards, are displaced under an open sky, as if they were part of the nature; in other compositions rocks and trees are domesticated inside a room.  Some other works of art are dedicated to the “Chinese boxes”:  here the paintings show rooms within rooms, images within the images. De Chirico died in Rome in 1978.

The largest and one of the most active volcanoes in Europe is Mount Etna, that lies near the eastern coast of Sicily and it is considered a benign volcano. It is called the “good volcano” or the “beautiful mountain”. The volcanic soil is very fertile and supports extensive agriculture, with vineyards spread across the lower slopes of the mountain. The climate there is favorable, as it is conditioned by the presence of a large mountain close to the sea. Etna’s main feature is the voluminous lava emission. Strong explosive activity occurs rarely, usually from its four summit craters. They are spectacular, but they are not a threat for the inhabited areas. Other eruptions occur on the flanks, where there are more than 300 vents, ranging in size from small holes in the ground to large craters. Flank eruptions can occur down to a few hundred meters altitude, close to the populated areas. Numerous villages and small towns lie around or on cones of past flank eruptions. Etna reaches 3000 meters and covers an area of 1200 square miles. It is possible to have a tour around Mount Etna, and even to climb to the top. Of course, this is a breathtaking experience and in the warmest months of the year you will find yourself in a lunar-desert scene, with sulfurous fumes and thick vapors. A bus leaves from Catania early in the morning, then a cable car and 4 wheel drive truck will take you up to the top. 

The second volcano I would like to talk about is Vesuvius, about 5.6 mi east of Naples. Vesuvius, in AD 79, destroyed and completely buried the town of Pompeii. The drama has inspired the fantasies of generations of poets, philosophers and scientists. The eruption buried Pompeii underneath 22 meters of ash  and it was lost for nearly 1,600 years before it was accidentally rediscovered in 1592. Since then, its excavation has provided an extraordinarily detailed insight into the life of a city at the height of the Roman Empire. Pompeii has been a popular tourist destination for 250 years; it was even on the Grand Tour. Visiting the excavations of Pompeii provides a lifetime experience. Lava flows and mud covered the town preserving it from aging until a couple of centuries ago, when archaeologists began to unveil the beauty of the large Roman town with a flourishing economy and about 20,000 inhabitants. 

The Roman naturalist and philosopher Pliny the Elder described the eruption with abundance of particulars. He found particularly frightening the long and deep darkness during daytime, as consequence of the ashes. This is the first accurate account of an eruption in the history of mankind. It is thought to have lasted about 19 hours.

Stromboli is another must for volcanoes lovers. Because of its position in the sea north of Sicily and its constant activity, it has the nickname of “lighthouse of the Mediterranean Sea.” The volcano has erupted many times, and is constantly active with major eruptions, often visible from many points on the island and from the surrounding sea. Most of this activity is of a very moderate size, consisting of brief and small bursts of glowing lava fragments to heights of rarely more than 150 m above the vents.  It is one of the islands which form the Aeolian archipelago. It is possible to take part to guided tours to climb the volcano at night. You will see dozens of cruise ships and sail boats anchored not too far from the island. Night is surely the best time to visit the volcano because that's when you can enjoy the flaming color of magma. In the silence, the sound of rocks bursting out of the vents and rolling down into the sea resembles that of fireworks.

Remembering this folk history, once a year for three consecutive days, teams of masked, armored men throw 400,000 kg of oranges at the crowd who in turn throw them back at them, until the streets are covered by a carpet of squashed oranges that is sometimes even 30 cm thick.  The event begins on Saturday evening with a costumed parade, resplendent with fireworks, torch lights, drums, flags and a band. The mill’s daughter is “presented” to the town and, after that, the orange battle begins.  

On battle day, you will be immediately inebriated by the smell of thousands of red juicy oranges, mixed with the deep aroma of "Vin Brulé", hot red and spicy wine. Violetta passes on a carriage and throws yellow flowers and candies at the crowd.

The first thing you will notice is that crowd wears a red hat. Red hats symbolize freedom: they were worn, in ancient Rome, by emancipated slaves and finally became one of the symbols of the French Revolution. When you walk around with a red hat in Ivrea, it means you won't be throwing oranges and therefore no one will throw oranges directly at you.

If you don’t want to be just a spectator but you desire to get into the crazy spirit of the festival, you have to remove your red hat, reach the battle zones and launch oranges against the carriages with the representative of the Emperor.

It was created by the Bourbon kings of Naples to rival Versailles. and the Royal Palace in Madrid and it is one of the largest building in Europe built in the eighteenth century. Versailles Palace, not far from Paris. ,was taken by the architect Vanvitelli  as a mode. Both Palaces have the structure of a small city.  The kind wanted to have a new  royal court and administrative center in a location protected from sea attack. The palace has a rectangular plan and about 1,200 rooms. The plan included a monumental avenue running 20 kilometres between the palace and Naples, but it was never realized.

As at Versailles, a large aqueduct brings water for the prodigious water displays. The palace was intended to show the power and grandeur of an absolute Bourbon monarchy.  The inland location was more defensible than the old Royal Palace in Naples, which fronted the Bay of Naples and was vulnerable to attack from the sea. To provide the King with suitable protection, troop barracks were housed within the palace.

                   Tommaso De Poi
                      CEO Trips2Italy Group

This Cicero Newsletter feature :

- IVREA : ORANGES ISNTEAD OF STONES FOR THE MILLE'S DAUGTHER

- CASERTA: THE ROYAL PALACE IN CASERTA

- ITALY : THE ITALIAN FIRE GIANTS

- ROME : THE FATHER OF METAPHYSICAL SCHOOL IN ROME 

The Country requests citizens to differentiate the garbage, separating paper, plastic, and organic waste, such as vegetables. This helps to save money and reduce pollution. 

The problem is that, after the waste separation made by people in their homes, town-councils are then not always organized to collect waste separately, and everything is put together again! As a consequence, the effort of people to reduce costs coming from waste disposal is… wasted! 

In Giarratana and Castelbuono the problem was serious, as the streets are so narrow that they do not allow the waste collection vans to reach houses.

   A clever solution was found: the door to door collection is done by …donkeys!

They are small, but very strong. Every donkey carries wicker baskets, similar to those once used for the grape harvest. Every basket is reserved for a different garbage material. Using donkey instead of vans is also cheaper.

A van costs about 30 thousand Euros; the cost for a donkey 3/5 years old is between 700 and 1500 Euros.        

Good savings, isn’t it? And of course, donkeys do not need any gas or insurance!

To read more about Sicily : All about the Italian Region of Sicily.

The Palio is one of the most popular and spectacular Italian events.  Each contrada has its own name, colours and symbols. Some of the districts names are Eagle, Snail, Wave, Forest, Tortoise, Owl, Tower, Porcupine, and Goose.

The palio dates back to the Middle Ages, when the town's central square was the site of public games, largely combative, such as buffalo races, donkey races or different ball games. The race is held on Piazza del Campo, the magnificent town’s square turned into a racetrack, fit for the race, thanks to its semi circular shape, similar to a Roman Amphitheatre.

For no more then 90 seconds, the 10 horses run 3 times around the square. Even when a horse loses its rider, because of the violence and speed of the race, he goes ahead and can win. The stars during the palio are the horses representing the Contrade, not riders, and it is not so unusual for the jockeys to be thrown off their horses.

There is crowd on the Campo from the early afternoon, even if the race is at 7.45 pm in July and at 7pm in August. People try to reach a good position to follow the race. All around the track seats are arranged, and balconies are made ready for visitors. More then 30 thousands seats are not sufficient, and they are sold out long before the race date.

In the centre of the square, there is place for other 25 thousand people, but this is not enough, and people are everywhere, even on roofs. The race is preceded with a spectacular parade, a display of medieval costumes dating back to year 1400, accompanied by the beating of drums, while a group of flag bearers representing the Contrade perform together, throwing flags in the air and catching them again before they touch the ground.

This is a splendid display of colour. Waiting for the races to begin is a time full of pathos and enthusiasm, and when the horses appear, the crowd becomes delirious.

Being there, with people living in Siena, to feel their antagonism, their passion and pride for the Contrada they belong to, is something unforgettable.

            What does the winner win? ...a silk hand painted banner.

You are still in time to take part in the Palio next summer!


To read more about Siena:  Tuscany , Chianti Area and Siena .

Everything according to Caravaggio must have been shown as realistic as possible. Saints or even the Virgin could have, for example, dirty feet. It is not unusual to find among his works religious scenes as if they were taken from the streets; for this reason reaction of church was sometimes negative, as the religious characters were considered too plebeian and not decorous enough. 

Light and shadow are protagonists in his works of art.  Caravaggio inclinations were always toward anarchy and against tradition, both in art and in life.

He earned his living for the most part with hackwork. Finally, he began to sell his pictures through a dealer who brought Caravaggio's work to the attention of Cardinal Francesco Del Monte, who had a great influence in the papal court. Caravaggio soon came under the protection of the Cardinal, with a pension in his house. Caravaggio was often arrested and imprisoned. He was accused of brawling, including one incident, where   he wounded a soldier.

Once he threw a plate of artichokes in the face of a waiter, another time he threw stones at a Guard. During a furious brawl over a disputed score in a game of tennis, Caravaggio killed a young man named Ranuccio Tomassoni.

Terrified for the consequences of his act, Caravaggio fled Rome to Naples, outside the jurisdiction of the Roman authorities and under the protection of the powerful family Colonna. Thanks to his connection to the family, he had many church commissions.  He the travelled to Malta, where he was received as a celebrated artist, and made “Knight of Justice” in the Order of Malta.

Soon afterward, however, either because word of his crime had reached Malta or because of new misdeeds, he was expelled from the order and imprisoned. He escaped from jail and went to Sicily, asking for the pope’s pardon. Caravaggio died on a beach in Tuscany on July 18, 1610.

Caravaggio’s work was forgotten almost immediately after his death, and it was only in the 20th century that his importance was rediscovered.

To read more about Emilia Romagna : All About Emilia Romagna things to Do

Around Parma, there are eleven officially recognized production areas for the ham. Only hams coming from these areas are DOP, i.e. denomination of product origin, and have the right to be marked with the traditional logo: a five-pointed crown, which can be seen wherever in Italy and abroad. Of course, area of origin is not enough to guarantee the originality of the ham. Another important factor is the pigs.

Animals must have been fed with quality foods, such as maize, barley, and milk whey left over from Parmesan cheese production (another gem in the Italian gastronomy.) Pigs must be nine months old minimum and the weight must be at least 150 Kg. Hams are then placed in refrigerators where they are cooled to 0°. The particular shape of Parma ham (Prosciutto di Parma), similar to a chicken leg, is important for the salt processing.

It is this process that gives to the ham its special flavor. No kinds of additives, chemicals or preserving agents are used.  After a period of rest, the hams are washed in warm water. Then, they are hung in a warehouse for seasoning.  Humidity is very important and it is controlled, opening and closing windows that face the rows of hams.

Very important is the last phase of testing, when experts insert a needle in the ham to check the consistency first and then aroma. As a matter of fact, the needle is made of horse bone, which has the property of absorbing aromas and releasing them easily.

The experts sniff the needle and confirm that the ham is ready to be sold.

If not, it is necessary to wait till the right moment. Or, if something, according to the experts, went wrong during the process, the whole ham is discarded.
The producer’s consortium, which guarantees the product quality since beginning of 1960, counts189 members who produce nine million Parma hams a year, exported all over the world.

Every year, the festival of ham is held in September. Visitors can sample different cuts of ham, together with bread and wine.  

To read more about Emilia Romagna:  Food & Wine Information & Culinary Tours .

(Source: Progress International –All about Italy)