VIP ITALY EXPERIENCE - SIGNATURE

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1

Private Deluxe Sedan Transfer from Malpensa Airport to Grand Hotel Villa D’Este in Cernobbio.
On Arrival at Malpensa Airport please collect your luggage and make your way through customs and into the Arrivals Hall where the Driver will await you with a sign saying SMITH. Outside the airport you will find also another Van for the luggage transfer to the hotel.

Check-in to the beautiful Grand Hotel Villa D’Este, one of the world’s most beautiful properties where you have reserved the Cardinal Suite with breakfast, service and taxes included for three nights. The Villa D’Este needs no description from us, it speaks for itself….It’s 161 rooms which are divided between the two buildings are all majestically furnished in period furniture. The views are beautiful, the park breathtaking, the restaurant mouth watering and the service is the best you will find anywhere….What else can one say except don’t forget about their wonderful spa too – this is a real bonus.

Hotel is air conditioned – Parking is readily available here….

Time at Leisure to Relax and Enjoy the beautiful grounds and facilities at this amazing resort..

Dinner Reservation at the Ever Elegant Veranda Restaurant – Enjoy a very special dining experience in this amazing restaurant as you overlook the beautiful First Basin of Lake Como and enjoy some of the most exquisite Italian Cuisine..

Day 2

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Enjoy the perfect introduction today to Lake Como with your local expert guide and private boat taking in the beautiful towns and villages, villas and gardens which elegantly line the lake shore with a special stop at the most beautiful Villa on the lake – Villa Balbianello and for lunch on Isola Comacina..

This is our all time favourite tour, we think that here you get the best of both worlds…Beginning your tour from the First Basin of Lake Como we enjoy a cruise in a Northerly Direction along the western coastline where you will see some of the most beautiful Villas of the Lake and their gardens: Many of which are world renowned and are of great botanical interest. We will then stop to visit the Villa Balbianello and its beautiful gardens: in our opinion the most beautiful Villa on the Lake. From here we continue heading north passing Lenno, Mezzegra (where Mussolini spent his final night), Azzano, Tremezzo and the Villa Carlotta, before crossing to Bellagio. We will enjoy some free time to explore Bellagio before heading south to Isola Comacina for a very special lunch….Following Lunch we return down the centre of the lake to the area known as the First Basin of Lake Como where we began our tour earlier. Tour Duration: 7 Hours

Afternoon at Leisure ..

Late Afternoon we will transfer from Cernobbio to Milan to enjoy an exclusive behind closed doors visit at the Refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie to see the Last Supper by Leonard da Vinci – from here we will head over to one of Milan’s most special restaurants – L’Ulmet – for dinner (Payment for dinner direct to restaurant) – you have here quite a spectacular evening awaiting you..

Exclusive Last Supper Visit: Enjoy the most exclusive experience, a private after-hours visit of the Last Supper in the refectory of the domenican convent adjoining the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Your personal guide will reveal you all the secrets about the world’s most celebrated works by Leonardo da Vinci. Escape the crowds and enjoy this unique experience with your local expert guide!

Ristorante L’Ulmet: In our opinion, this has to be considered one of Italy’s best restaurants. Not only for the food, the wine cellar, the service but more for those little touches that the owners, who personally run the restaurant, add. Chicco Mooney and his family will not only present you an amazing unforgetable meal, but they will also make sure that you have enjoyed the best ingredients and that your meal has been well combined with the best possible wines. A private tour of Chicco’s wine cellar is also possible before dinner, for an aperitif, or after, or, for the wine buff, even both. This restaurant should be a must on any list.

Day 3

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a wonderful day with your local expert driver to enjoy Lake Como, the Rhaetian Alps and beautiful Swiss Resort of St. Moritz..
The drive from the southern lake area to St.Moritz is probably one of the most beautiful and picturesque drives that one can experience. Your journey will take you north along the shores of Lake Como, through a Nature Reserve and then begin the climb up into the heart of the Rhaetian Alps. Just after crossing the border into Switzerland enjoy a brief stop in the town of Soglio – a characteristic alpine village which is a great taste of what’s to come. From Soglio head with your driver up the Maloja Pass and past the Sapphire lakes to the resort of St. Moritz. Your driver will not only introduce you to Lake Como, its culture and people but also Switzerland and St. Moritz. On arrival in St. Moritz enjoy time at leisure exploring the town, a typical Swiss Lunch in one of the pavement cafes or take one of the funicular or cable cars to the top of the mountain above St. Moritz to enjoy even more of this incredible scenery, before returning to the southern lake area with the driver (duration: 8 hours). Remember Passports!!!!!!! Ask your Driver about Tax Free Shopping.

Dinner Reservation at the Trattoria Navedano (Return sedan Transfers included) – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant
This is our favourite restaurant in Como, excellent food, gracious service, wonderful ambience filled with fresh flowers and family antiques. This charming environment is the result of Lella and Giuliano Casartelli’s creative taste, not only given by the wonderful flowers, but also by the exquisite furniture and most of all, by the high quality cuisine, which is much appreciated by true connoisseurs. A choice of rooms enables the costumer to decide which ambience he prefers for a romantic candle-light dinner or a business meal.

Day 4

Breakfast at the hotel.

Check-out of the Hotel and settle incidentals account.

Private Sedan Transfer from Grand Hotel Villa D’Este to Venice stopping for an introductory tour and lunch in the City of Shakespeare Verona enroute – one of the most leisurely ways to transfer from Cernobbio to Venice..

Introductory Tour to the Highlights of Verona…. This tour includes the main highlights of Verona and takes us for a pleasant walk through the main city centre….We will include the old Arena Amphitheatre, the Castel Vecchio (14th century), the Gavi Arch and Bosari Gate, Corso Portoni Borsari, Corso S. Anasatasia, View of River Adige with the hill and Castle of San Pietro, typical medieval period streets and their buildings and evocative courtyards with Roman Remains, Sottoriva street, Romeo’s house, Scala Family’s mountain graves, Erbe Square and famous Juliets House. (tour duration 2,5 hours)

Lunch Reservation at Ristorante 12 Apostoli… This is considered by many to be the best restaurant of Verona, not only for food and service but also for the wine list. The gracious staff will take very good care of you, whilst you enjoy one of the best meals you will find in the region of Veneto.

On arrival in Piazzale Roma enjoy a leisurely water taxi transfer with assistant from Piazzale Roma to the Hotel San Clemente Palace – Enjoy a leisurely short transfer through the minor canals of Venice over to the Hotel San Clemente Palace…

Check-in San Clemente Palace Hotel, 5 star deluxe where you have reserved the Residential Suite Room with breakfast, service and taxes included for three nights. Looking for a resort style property in Venice – the Hotel San Clemente Palace is about as near to it as you will guess and the good news is it is just a stone’s throw from San Marco or 7 minutes transfer using the Hotel’s Shuttle boat….This is a huge complex by any standards offering many services, the old monastery was cleverly restored and completely changed to make this spacious, large five star property…Rooms are very spacious, very comfortable and offer great amenities as well as facilities…For those looking for that boutique charming hotel this is not for you – this is for resort seekers who want the extra facilities to enjoy the hotel and grounds etc., and be near to Venice should they wish to head into the centre…

Official Description: The San Clemente Palace is Venice’s big new luxury grand hotel for elite tourism on San Clemente Island. Its origins go back to 1131, the year in which the church was built. Through the years this island has always retained its image as an oasis of peace, welcoming and cordial. Today’s complex, enhanced by open-air courtyards, retains all the charm and atmosphere of the ancient monastery of the Camaldolesi order, built in the second half of the seventeenth century. The restoration of the buildings, accomplished with the utmost respect for the island’s historical and artistic treasures and natural beauties, has made it possible to preserve all its historical flavour and to achieve a truly luxurious hotel for international guests who expect the most in terms of privacy and discretion.

The professionalism of the staff, with their excellent linguistic skills and awareness of the customs and needs of diverse international cultures, will make every guest feel thoroughly “at home”.

Hotel is fully air conditioned – Note that ALL ROOMS are NON SMOKING.

Time at leisure to Explore Venice on own.

Dinner Reservation at Harry’s Bar – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant: Probably one of Venice’s most well known restaurants, well located between St. Marks Square and the Hotel Bauer Grunwald, this famous hang out is worth passing by for at least one Bellini which is one Of Venice’s most famous cocktails.

Day 5

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Morning with Guide and Private Water Taxi to Explore the Lesser Known Area’s of this Unique City.. Meeting our guide in the hotel lobby we will begin our tour by exploring the minor canals of Venice as we make our way towards the heart of the historical center. En.route we will visit and enjoy many of the most beautiful, quaint minor canals which is a great introduction to the real Venice, the Venetians, their way of life, culture and industry. After enjoying two hours out on the canals, our final two hours will be spent on foot with the guide enjoying the silent squares, the parks, the forgotten churches with some of the cities most beautiful artworks as well as passing the many mask laboratories and gondola making factory. This really is a great introduction to the REAL VENICE and not the one which the majority of people visit. (Tour duration: 4 hours)

Afternoon at Leisure to Enjoy Venice on own…
Enjoy an Exclusive, behind closed doors visit to the Basilica of St. Marks with your local expert guide - Enjoy a very exclusive visit of the famous Basilica of San Marco with your personal guide to take in the Highlights of one of the most recognized buildings in Venice. Escape the crowds and enjoy this unique experience with your local expert guide.

Dinner Reservation at Ristorante Do Forni – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant.. The Do Forni offers the traditional Venetian cuisine, which is mostly based on seafood and fishes coming from the Adriatic Sea. Its recipes are those of the Venetian tradition enriched with seasonal vegetables and soft sauces. Its refined interpretation of the Italian and Venetian cuisine mix together the use of local flesh and vegetables with international art of gastronomy. Its wide and excellent cellar is managed directly by Eligio Paties, who offers his guests the most precious Italian wines along with superb French wines and champagne, not to mention the wide range of foreign wines.

Day 6

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Morning at Leisure ..

12 Noon Departure with private water taxi from Hotel San Clemente Palace to the Island of Torcello where you have a lunch reservation at the Locanda Cipriani (payment for lunch direct to restaurant) – enjoy a leisurely transfer across the Venetian Lagoon to the Island of Torcello..

Lunch Reservation at the Locanda Cipriani – Payment for Lunch Direct to Restaurant…
The restaurant is located in the most charming corner of the lagoon: Torcello Island. This is for sure the most expensive restaurant on Torcello Island. Giuseppe Cipriani is known everywhere in the world for Harry’s Bar, the Hotel Cipriani and for the last “pearl” of “Hotellerie” that is the Villa Cipriani in Asolo. This restaurant is very elegant but simple and the service is very good. The uniqueness of the recipes is that they are prepared as classical Venetian Dishes in “Cipriani Style”. The garden is very pleasant as is the inside of the restaurant which is dominated by wooden ceilings, terracotta bricks, Venetian bass-reliefs, old copper pots and pictures hanging everywhere. In the bar, they also have a typical rustic fireplace used in winter. The restaurant has a view of the garden. The Chef, Renato Ceccato, prepares dishes that have been invented by the Cipriani Family as well as the classical dishes such as “Carpaccio” meat, fresh fish and vegetables and homemade pasta. Every day you will find a large choice of desserts, Bavarian creams, cream cakes, biscuits and chocolate. Their sommelier will select one of the best Italian wines with an emphasis on Friulian and Venetian varieties.

Afternoon with Guide and Private Water Taxi to Enjoy the Principle Islands of Venice with an exclusive, behind closed doors visit to the oldest and most important glass factories on Murano Island - From the restaurants private landing stage we will head with our guide and private water taxi out to explore Torcello Island and then the beautiful islands of Murano and Burano. During our transfer to the other two islands we will enjoy a wonderful introduction to Venice from our guide. We will enjoy and explore all three of the islands, meeting here the local people and learning much about their way of life, their industries (primarily glass and lace), the effect the islands have on ‘mainland Venice’ and we will also have the possibility to visit some of the factories and places where the lace and glass are produced to learn more about these age old techniques. Following the tour of the islands return with your guide and water taxi back to your hotel or to St. Marks Square where your guide has some wonderful shopping and eating advice...(Tour duration: 4 hours)

Dinner at Leisure in one of Venice’s Restaurants – see IC Bellagio Recommended Restaurants Collection for ideas..

Day 7

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Check-out of the Hotel and settle incidentals account.

Enjoy a Private Water Taxi Transfer with Assistant from Hotel San Clemente Palace to Piazzale Roma – Private Sedan Transfer with English Speaking Driver from Venice to Florence stopping en.route to enjoy lunch in the Gastronomic Capitol of Italy, Bologna – one of the most leisurely ways to transfer from Venice to Florence…

The Historic City Centre of Bologna is a handsome ensemble of brick buildings and charming porticoed streets. Medieval palaces are clustered around the two central squares, Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, flanked to the south by the churches of San Petronio and San Domenico. Here too, is the venerable Archiginnasio, part of the University of Bologna, one of the oldest universities in Europe. The skyline is etched by the Asinelli and Garisenda towers, and by the campanile of Santo Stefano.

Lunch Reservation at Ristorante Franco Rossi – Payment for Lunch Direct to Restaurant.. This restaurant is located in an old liberty-style palace. With a very original atmosphere, it is ideal for those seeking privacy and comfort. The uniqueness of this restaurant is the presentation of its Renaissance-style dishes. Two different menus are available: one is sea based, the other is earth based and the recipes are very creative. The wine selection is good, giving you the possibility to choose either a glass or a bottle.

Check into the Hotel Lungarno where you have a Duplex River View Suite reserved for three nights including breakfast, service and taxes - The Hotel Lungarno has to be one of our favourite Italian City Hotels …Fabulous location along the River Arno and just a stone’s throw from Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi and main shopping area as well as being with 10 mins walk of what we refer to as ‘the real Florence’, this light and airy hotel does not just offer wonderful accommodations but also exceptional service and the staff here are very helpful…. The hotel is air conditioned…The Hotel has an agreement with a nearby garage for guest parking – this should be requested at the time of booking. The Hotel has both smoking and non smoking rooms available – these should be requested at the time of booking.

Official Description: The meticulous refurbishment recently completed, has enhanced the character that made it famous over the years. The view on the Arno River and over the city is a unique experience. In the bedrooms, the guest will be surrounded by exquisite objects, antiques and original paintings. The Hotel Lungarno has 69 bedrooms including 12 suites. Air conditioning, direct dial telephone, fax and modem line, satellite television, meetings rooms and garage service are only a few of their services.

Time at leisure to Explore Florence on own.

Dinner Reservation at the Cavolo Nero Restaurant – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant
Away from the crowds, in the part of the city that is associated with artisans, antiques, and wonderful little restaurants, you find “Cavolo Nero”. The restaurant’s look is contemporary and warmly furnished with soft and romantic lighting. It offers a particularly charming courtyard where to sit and enjoy lunch or dinner during the spring & summer months . This restaurant is a particular favourite of ours, as we consider it not only to be a hidden gem but also because, no matter what the season or whether we are talking Pasta, Main Course or Dessert, the service, presentation and actual dishes themselves are always excellent.

Day 8

Breakfast at the Hotel.
Morning with English Speaking Guide to Enjoy an Introduction to the Highlights of Florence including the Accademia Gallery..
The guide’s flexibility allows for adaptation to your areas of interest. While those who have visited Florence before may have special requests, we suggest the following for a first visit to this city:
•Piazza della Signoria, one of the most beautiful squares in the world, with its open-air display of masterpieces of Renaissance and Baroque sculpture. The backdrop is the medieval Palazzo Vecchio, the city’s seat of government for over 700 years. Together with your guide, explore the fascinating history of Florence, as the heroes from the Old Testament or Greek mythology, depicted here in marble and bronze, served as political messages for the ruler of the moment.
•Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral square, where from the outside we can admire the graceful Gothic bell-tower and the Romanesque baptistery with its beautiful gilded bronze doors. The most famous of the doors are the “Gates of Paradise” by Lorenzo Ghiberti, with their stories from the Old Testament, a masterpiece of the early Renaissance. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is crowned with its imposing dome, an amazing challenge of engineering to be solved only by the genius of Brunelleschi. We discuss how the difficulties were to be overcome in the most imaginative of ways.
•The Ponte Vecchio, or “old bridge” and its tantalizing jewellery shops. Beautiful hand-made gold jewellery is a “centuries-long” tradition in this city, dating back to the pre-Roman era of the Etruscans. This medieval bridge is the oldest spanning the Arno River, offering lovely views of the city and the hills beyond.
•We also strongly recommend a visit to the Franciscan church of Santa Croce and its neighbourhood. This is the perfect setting for further discussion of the artistic and political history of this great city. The church serves as a pantheon to Italian genius with monuments to such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo. There are also fine examples of the work of artists such as Giotto, Donatello and Brunelleschi. The Franciscans’ Leather School still operates in the rooms of the old convent behind the church: here classes are conducted and fine leather articles are produced and sold. It is possible to observe the master craftsmen and their students at work.
•You will also discover lesser-known corners of the city, quiet back streets of the neighbourhood, craftsmen’s workshops and curiosities of life in Florence, both present-day and medieval. Here is located one of the city’s most fascinating of workshops where it is possible to watch the masters creating beautiful pieces in semi-precious inlaid stone with the same tools and techniques of the past. The city is so steeped in history, the quality of its artists and craftsmen is so superlative, there are so many delights to discover, you will be left, wanting always more! (tour duration: 4 hours)

Afternoon at Leisure to Enjoy Florence on own..

Dinner Reservation at the Trattoria Omero – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant
Away from the crowds, in the part of the city that is associated with artisans, antiques, and wonderful little restaurants, you find “Cavolo Nero”. The restaurant’s look is contemporary and warmly furnished with soft and romantic lighting. It offers a particularly charming courtyard where to sit and enjoy lunch or dinner during the spring & summer months . This restaurant is a particular favorite of ours, as we consider it not only to be a hidden gem but also because, no matter what the season or whether we are talking Pasta, Main Course or Dessert, the service, presentation and actual dishes themselves are always

Day 9

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Morning with Local Expert Guide to Enjoy the Uffizi Gallery and an Exclusive Visit to the Beautiful Vasarian Corridor A very special tour to enjoy an exclusive viewing of the Vasari Corridor, the Medici’s secret walkway from Palazzo Vecchio, the government building to their residence more commonly known as Pitti Palace which allowed members of the family to move about between their various residences, admiring the beautiful paintings on the corridors walls, without having to step into the street below and mix with the crowds. The viewing of the Vasarian Corridor is preceded b a visit to the Uffizi Gallery with your expert guide. (tour duration: 4 hours)

Afternoon at Leisure to Enjoy Florence on own..
Dinner Reservation at the Enoteca Pinchiorri – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant
It has the greatest wine cellar in Europe and it is located on the ground floor of the 15th century Palazzo Ciofilacometti. The cooking is a mixture of traditional Tuscan and French inspired by “Cucina Nuova”. This is one of the most expensive restaurant in Italy but the Pinchiorri is quite often described as Italy’s finest restaurant.

Day 10

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Check-out of the Hotel and settle incidentals account.
Private Transfer with Driver/Guide from Florence to Rome stopping en.route to Enjoy the beautiful Tuscan Towns of Siena and San Gimignano – this is not only a very scenic drive but also of great interest. As you head south through the Tuscan Countryside your local expert Driver/Guide will not only give you a wonderful introduction to the Region of Tuscany, its people and culture but also introduce you to two of Tuscany’s most attractive, interesting and typical towns – Siena and San Gimignano. Enjoy two hours in Siena and one hour in San Gimignano during your transfer south towards Rome.

Check-in St. Regis Hotel, 5 star deluxe where you have reserved one Ambassador Suite Double Room with breakfast, service and taxes included for three nights. Built in 1894 as the first deluxe hotel in Rome, the St. Regis Grand, Rome is within walking distance of the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and Via Veneto. Upon reopening in mid-December 1999, after an extensive restoration and renovation, the St. Regis Grand, Rome reclaimed its status as the finest hotel in Rome and one of the best in the world. This honor has been re-emphasized by recently being named to Condé Nast Traveler's 2002 Gold List. As a focal point of Rome's diplomatic and political life, we are proud to host many national and international dignitaries, heads of state, business executives, and widely known celebrities.

Enjoy a unique dining experience at our restaurant Vivendo, the number one restaurant in Rome nominated by Zagat, and the Gold Key award winner for design and décor. Our private wine cellar, Di Vino, selected to be "depositaire de l' enotheque Dom Perignon" invites you to private dining with regional and international menus enhanced by a wide selection of wines to complement each course. An English-style butler is available, on dedicated floors, to attend to guests' requests 24-hours a day.
Hotel Fitness Centre is open daily from 6,30am to 10,30pm
Hotel’s Restaurants is not open on Sundays.

Time at leisure to Explore Rome on own.

Dinner Reservation at George’s Restaurant – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant
Located in the center of Roma, this restaurant offers the flavours and the fragrances of Italy. The Chef Antonio Sciullo transforms whatsoever lunch or dinner into a true gastronomic event to be remembered for the originality of the dishes and the sought-after simplicity of the ingredients. When organising the menu, special attention is paid to the season of the year, in such a way that each and every preparation mirrors the natural elements of the earth, enhancing fragrances and flavours. A wine cellar with over 1,200 wines, many of them historic vintages, combines the pleasures of the palate with those of aroma. The dining rooms have been refurbished to create new areas forming three separate dining rooms (George’s Room, the Fountain Room, and the Nymphaeum Room) offering customers complete privacy and tranquillity, and the possibility to reserve an entire dining room and have a waiter “on call” for business lunches or suppers for special occasions which require additional attention.

Day 11

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Morning with Guide and Driver to take in the Highlights of Imperial Rome including the Basilica of St. Peters.. A great way to see and enjoy the highlights of Imperial Rome. On this tour we will visit the valley of the Roman Forum. We see the inside of the Senate and the inside of the Basilica of Constantine. From the outside we will see the other ruins (temples, basilicas, Reggia, etc.,). We will walk the Via Sacra to the Arch of Tito and enjoy the Colosseum both externally and from the inside. We then head to the Basilica of St. Peter in Chains to see the Holy Chains of St. Peter and the Moses carved by Michelangelo!!! Not to mention the Vittoriano (otherwise known as the Wedding Cake). The tour ends with a visit to the Basilica of St. Peters followed by a panoramic drive past Circus Maximus, Aventino Hill and the Palatino Hill. (tour duration: 4 hours)

Afternoon at Leisure..

In the late afternoon we will enjoy one of the world’s most exclusive, special experiences – a behind closed doors private visit to the amazing Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum with our very own local expert guide. Enjoy the most exclusive experience, a private after-hours exclusive tour of one of the most amazing building in the world that houses one of the world’s most important art collections. This amazing complex of Museums, which were originally papal palaces built for Renaissance Popes such as Sixtus IV, Innocent VIII and Julius II also house the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms which should not be missed. The only problem is ‘where to begin’. Your local expert guide will take you on the most incredible journey through what is considered to be one of the most important buildings in the world. (tour duration: 2 hours)

Dinner Reservation at La Pergola – Payment for Dinner Direct to Restaurant (sedan transfers to/from Restaurant included)
What can we say about the Ristorante La Pergola except it is considered to be the best restaurant in Rome, the only two star michelin restaurant in Rome. Not only is the Restaurant, its food and service exceptional you can also enjoy from the Roof Top Terrace where the restaurant is located the best view of the entire city of Rome. To have the opportunity to eat at this wonderful restaurant you do need to reserve your table a long time in advance otherwise you will be disappointed

Day 12

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Day Completely at Leisure to relax and enjoy Rome on own..
Dinner at leisure in one of Rome’s Restaurants – see IC Bellagio Recommended Restaurants Collection for ideas..

Day 13

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Check-out of the Hotel and settle incidentals account.
Private Sedan Transfer from Hotel St. Regis in Rome to the beautiful Palazzo Sasso in Ravello stopping en.route for a special lunch at Don Alfonso’s on the Sorrentina Peninsula – the most leisurely way to transfer from Rome to Ravello..
Ristorante Don Alfonso - This has to be one of Italy’s best restaurants – if not the best…For Wine and Foodies who are in the Positano/Sorrento area there is no better restaurant ..From the moment you arrive in the parking area, to the warm welcome that you receive from Costanzo or Ernesto this gives you a very clear idea of things to come…The food here is really quite exceptional and we guarantee you will not find better service, presentation or quality of dishes anywhere…Following lunch or dinner here at Don Alfonso do remember to ask about their extensive, very famous wine cellar…There are over 25,000 bottles of wines from many countries in the world and this has to be one of the best private collections of wines in Italy. Your visit to the cellar will be of course assisted by one of the restaurants’ premier somm elliers.. When you go into the cellar do be sure to head down to the bottom of the tunnel where you are many metres below ground to see the important collection of cheeses stored here…The Don Alfonso Restaurant is not just a fabulous dining experience but an overall food and wine experience that will leave you the most amazing memories for a long time to come….

Check into the Hotel Palazzo Sasso where you have the Infinito Suite reserved for 3 nights including breakfast, service and taxes
Hotel Palazzo Sasso Ravello is a stunning new five star deluxe hotel on Italy's famous Amalfi coast. The hotel is a 12th century Italian villa tucked away in the hill top village of Ravello perched high on the cliffs, 350 meters (1,000 ft.) above the sparkling Mediterranean and overlooking some of the coast's most picturesque fishing villages. Just as Palazzo Sasso opened its door as a new hotel in 1997, it has been rated as one of the finest hotel and restaurant in the World.

Rooms and Suites
All rooms are decorated with hand made Vietri tiles, antique carpets and furniture from the XVIII and XIX centuries. Brass accessories and appliqués. Frette linen and Bulgari amenities, satellite TV, safe, minibar, internet access.

Infinito Suite – Sea View and Terrace
It is the largest and most beautiful suite in the hotel. Situated on the top floor of the building, is composed of one large leaving room including a dining area, one bedroom, one large bathroom with both Jacuzzi bath and separate large shower. There is also an additional guest bathroom in the living room area. On the higher floor there is relaxing area that lead onto a very large terrace with an amazing view over the Amalfi Coast with a Jacuzzi Pool and a large dining area. Equipped with plasma screen, Bose Hi Fi in all areas. Size: 100 square metres (1076 square feet) + terrace of 50 square meters (538 square feet). Bedding type: King or twin.

Dining:
Our two Michelin stars restaurant has just been awarded with very high ratings in all major Italian guides. The just reward for endless passion. Pino Lavarra our Executive Chef after having worked at Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in Oxford with Raymond Blanc went to run the renowned Grissini at the Hyatt Carlton Tower in London, is back in Ravello with the goal to make of Rossellinis one of the finest Italian restaurants.

The restaurant is closed from the November to March. During the season, the "Rossellinis"is open for dinner only. If you think of treating yourself with an unforgettable meal, think of doing so at night, on one of our terraces, looking down on the fishing boats 1,000 feet below!
Donato Marzolla, our Restaurant Manager, and his team will accompany you throughout your meal with a friendly, attentive and unobtrusive service.

Well Being Facilities:
Palazzo Sasso offers a peaceful sanctuary overlooking the sea:
SPA with hydro pool, Turkish steam bath, Beauty treatments
Fitness area on the open air
Heated swimming pool
Solarium with Jacuzzi Pools
Beauty Treatments
Amenities

• Upgrade to Superior room on arrival, subject to availability
• Full breakfast in restaurant (room service extra) already included in rates
• Free access to the hotel SPA every day during the stay - Including: hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam bath, aromatic showers (15 EUR value per person, per day)

Time at leisure to Explore Ravello on own…
Dinner at Leisure in one of Ravello’s Restaurants – see IC Bellagio Recommended Restaurants Collection for ideas..

Day 14

Breakfast in the Hotel

Day with Local Expert Driver to Enjoy Exploring the place he is so proud to call home – the Amalfi Coast.. One of the most scenic drives you will ever take, the perfume of the lemons, the locals, the sunshine and simply the atmosphere of the area will make you never want to say goodbye to the
Amalfi Coast. Amalfi is our first stop of the day, approximately 30 minutes drive from Ravello, probably one of the most famous towns along this coastline. The beautiful Cathedral of Amalfi just off the sea side promenade was founded in the 9th century and still to this day it retains its original bell tower. This church went through a number of alterations and although much of the façade was rebuilt in the 19th century, much of the original structure can still be enjoyed today. We do recommend during your visit there that you don’t forget to pass through the church into the Cloisters of Paradise where you can admire one of the most charming and beautiful pieces of Norman/Arab architecture. You should take the time to explore the rest of the town too, before continuing your journey to one of the coastal areas most beautiful hidden secrets. Just a short drive from Amalfi, Ravello different to many of its neighbouring towns is actually located high up the sea level … This small town has character, culture, art, history, great shops and pastry stores offering some of the best ‘dolce’ of the coastal area as well as the Villa Rufolo which is a beautiful 13th century Villa built by the Rufolo family in the 13th century. Just like Wagner, we are sure you will fall in love with it, enjoy the Moorish style courtyard which was initially a cloister with an 11th century bell tower that overlooks the Villa and Gardens …The views from the terrace areas give you picture postcard images of the area that so many of us know as the Amalfi Drive. (tour duration: 8 hours)

This Evening Enjoy a Unique Experience with a Special Dinner For Two At Mamma Agatha’s.. (return sedan transfers to/from Mamma Agatha’s included) A very unique experience: The cooking career of Mamma Agata started at the young age of thirteen. She went to work in order to help her family and was employed in the kitchen of a wealthy American lady who owned a summer villa in Ravello, overlooking the Amalfi Coast. Mamma Agata’s first experience in the kitchen proved her to be a natural, and in just a few months the meals shifted from American food to the regional specialties of the Amalfi. They called her “Baby Agata” since she was so young but dedicated to her craft.

Either cooking for a large gathering or an impromptu poolside lunch, the approach was always the same. Traditional dishes with regional ingredients replaced formal ones and Mamma Agata always remembered her guest’s favourites. When Fred Astaire came to call, after a lunch of spaghetti alla puttanesca, he would waltz the hostess’s elderly mother around the courtyard. Humphrey Bogart was more reserved, and quietly ate his alici fritti while taking in the view. The pasta e fagioli was a dish exclusively reserved for Anita Eckberg, a gloriously tall woman with skin like milk. But, the favourite memory that Mamma Agata shares is that of Jacqueline Kennedy, who impressed her with “un eleganza molto simplice” an elegant simplicity that was unique only to her, enjoying mozzarella and tomato salad by the pool.

She worked until her middle twenties, when she married and had children. When her children became adults, she was sought after to prepare private dinners for politicians and writers such as Agnelli and Gore Vidal. In 1997, the idea of the cooking school was born, in order to share her many talents.
For a very special dinner, why not follow in the footsteps of stars such as Humphrey Bogart, Anita Eckberg, Richard Burton, Liz Taylor, Fred Astaire, Charles Cubbon, Van Hefflin, Federico Fellini (big pasta e fagioli eater), Jacqueline Kennedy (1962 in Ravello), and Marcello Mastroianni and have Mamma Agata prepare a very special dinner for you on the terrace for a once in a lifetime experience with Mamma Agata as your personal chef, hostess/translator, your personal Sommelier and waiter too. Included in this very special experience is:-

Welcome Cocktail
* Dinner on the Terrace
* Mineral Water and Wines
* Coffee

Day 15

Breakfast at the Hotel.

Enjoy one of the most special days of this amazing trip, taking in the Amalfi Coast, Li Galli Islands and Island of Capri from the best possible place – the sea itself (return sedan transfers to/from Amalfi port included) A private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby together with the guide for the transfer to the port where you will find your private Yacht with a Skipper at your disposal. This full day tour will take us along with beautiful coastline known so fondly across the world as one of Italy’s most beautiful areas, we will not only enjoy the main towns and villages, the Li Galli Islands and Nerano as well as Capri from the best possible place – the sea itself – but also enjoy soft drinks and a very special lunch aboard the boat (included) as we soak up the Mediterranean Sun and enjoy the exquisite food and wines of the Campania Region. At your arrival a driver will await you at the port for the Private Transfer to the Hotel. (tour duration: 9 hours)

Farewell Dinner Reservation at Rossellini’s Restaurant – Payment for Dinner Direct to the Restaurant..

Day 16

Breakfast in the Hotel

Check out of the hotel and settle incidentals account..

Private Sedan Transfer from Hotel Palazzo Sasso to Naples Airport for your departure flight – Enjoy a leisurely transfer from the Hotel to the Airport in Naples for your departure flight ..

Buon Viaggio!!!!