TREASURES AND PLEASURES

Get ready for a thrilling Roman adventure. From the passenger seats of a stylish Vespa sidecar you will enjoy the ride of a lifetime as you cruise along cobbled alleys, taking in glorious views of the Eternal City.

Rome can claim the highest concentration of scooters in Europe. Locals are totally in love with their buzzing motorini and, while you roam the capital’s hectic streets, the reason immediately becomes clear: they allow you to move with ease through traffic jams. Vespas, in particular, are one of the country’s most iconic brands. First created in 1946, Piaggio’s genial, ultra-practical, revolutionary invention has enjoyed increasing popularity ever since, becoming a symbol of the Italian way of life.

But the sidecar is something truly special. These vehicles are custom-made, a rarity, therefore difficult to find. Compared to 2-wheeled scooters they are more stable. Complete with seat belts for sidecar passengers, they also ensure a safe trip ideal for both adults and children aged 6+. Furthermore, unlike classic Vespas, sidecars can accommodate two guests (one on the back of the Vespa scooter and the other on the passenger seat of the sidecar), allowing you and your travel companion to sit close to each other and share the unforgettable moments of an exhilarating day in Rome.

After breakfast your Vespa sidecar driver will meet you outside your hotel and lead you on a fun ride through centuries of history. Hop aboard and hit the streets of Bella Roma! Travelling at a maximum speed of 40 kilometres per hour, your Vespa driver will whisk you smoothly along a carefully prepared route taking you past many of the centre’s picture postcard locations. Headsets will allow you to hear a live, detailed commentary from your driver. You’ll get to know the layout of the capital’s historic districts, roll by the archaeological monuments, see the squares and well known buildings, admire the obelisks and fountains, take in the views – all from the pillion and passenger seat of your modern Vespa sidecar. You will also have the opportunity to venture through neighbourhoods that you might have missed or never found time to explore on foot and lap up the most amazing panorama of Rome from the top of one of its highest hills. Along the way you’ll enjoy several stops to record your visit to the capital’s world-famous landmarks and build up your album of Roman memories.

After the ride your Vespa sidecar driver will drop you off at a restaurant where you may enjoy some free time for lunch.

Later, it’s time to relive the astonishing feats and glories of the Roman Empire on a private tour of the capital’s ancient wonders. Accompanied by your expert guide, you will travel down the centuries and find out how this small city-state – by dint of perfectly planned military campaigns, outstanding organisation and technological genius – conquered lands far and wide and spread its influence over vast swathes of the globe, rightfully gaining the title of Caput Mundi – Capital of the World.

Specially designed to provide guests with an overview of ancient Roman history, society and culture, this tour encompasses the most significant and iconic archaeological sites. While you follow a time-worn route, past triumphal arches and majestic temples, your guide will bring the ancient city back to life, conjuring up the epic figures who walked along its streets and the world-shaking events that originated on this very spot. Take a deep breath and what you’ve only read about in books now appears right before your eyes!

Your journey begins as you access the Colosseum, the best-known symbol of the mighty Roman Empire and most visited monument in the whole of Italy. This masterpiece of ancient engineering is evidence of the Romans’ brilliant construction skills and provides an eloquent example of their ingenuity and innovation in the fields of technology, science and architecture, achievements which remained unequalled for centuries. The first stone of the amphitheatre was laid in 72 AD at the request of Emperor Vespasian whose intention was to appease public discontent and control the masses by donating a gift to his citizens and win their support with panem et circenses – bread and circuses. The cruel yet spectacular shows of great popular appeal staged inside the Colosseum were like nothing seen before or since, and included mass executions, warrior fights, wild animal hunts and even naval battles. Here, ill-fated prisoners fought to the death before ecstatic crowds and exotic beasts were butchered in the name of entertainment. While you roam through the ruins of stone walls and bleachers, imagine how a gladiator must have felt as he prepared for combat and awaited his destiny, stirred by the roars and cheers of 60,000 blood-thirsty spectators echoing through the arena.

Next, enjoy the myths and stories that took root in Rome on your climb up to Palatine Hill, the oldest part of the Caput Mundi. According to legend, this is where the baby twins Romulus and Remus are said to have been rescued and raised by the she-wolf and it is here that Rome was founded in 753 BC, after a boundary dispute between the two brothers and a fratricide. For centuries this was the city’s most coveted neighbourhood, owing to the stunning views of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus – Rome’s grandiose chariot-racing stadium – to be admired from the top of the hill. The luxurious villas of the patricians were gradually replaced by the emperor’s awe-inspiring palaces. The impressive remains of the Domus Flavia, the Palatine Stadium and the Baths of Septimius Severus still provide an extraordinary glimpse of the opulent lifestyle and excesses enjoyed by the ancient Roman courts.

Your tour will end with a leisurely stroll through the Roman Forum. Originally the social, commercial and political hub of the ancient city, the Forum was a grandiose district of temples and vibrant public spaces where trials, business dealings and elections took place. The marks of the Roman carriage wheels are still visible along its cobbled streets. As you retrace the footsteps of busy market traders and faithful temple-goers, you will learn about the everyday customs of these city dwellers as well as the rituals and beliefs of their pagan creed. Your guide will certainly point out the Curia Iulia, an imposing building that once echoed with the fierce debates of the senators and the rousing speeches of the great orators. You will also see the Temple of Divus Iulius and find out more about the extraordinary achievements and brutal murder of Julius Caesar, the first Roman citizen to be deified after the mythical founder Romulus. Statues of the priestesses who were tasked with ensuring Rome’s sacred flame remained forever lit still line the hall of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Here, you’ll hear moving stories of their lives and sometimes premature, tragic deaths and discuss the role of women in Roman society. Not to be missed are also the Basilica Julia and the Basilica of Maxentius, the most important courthouses of the ancient city.

What was once a busy centre of Roman city life is now still alive and pulsing with visitors eager to step back into history.

After the tour return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

If you’ve only seen the Eternal City from above the ground you may have missed half of its treasures. Follow your guide on a trail through its darkest recesses and gain insight into Rome’s origins and development over the centuries.

Nestled beneath the hustle and bustle of this modern day metropolis lies its silent, eerie underground twin city of ancient streets, domus, necropolises and temples. You will be led on a subterranean journey back in time past some of the capital’s most fascinating locations. As you dig deeper into Rome’s hidden layers, your private guide will animate your journey with historical curiosities and explanations. Ancient ruins, mysterious wall decorations and exciting discoveries will be pointed out along the way.

The first stop on your tour will bring you to the impressive multi-levelled Church of San Clemente. Marvel at every step as you uncover centuries of history concealed below ground-level. The present-day 12th century basilica sits atop the remains of an earlier 4th century church, which in turn was built over a 3rd century pagan sanctuary dedicated to the god Mithras and a 2nd century Roman dwelling. Also known as the lasagna church, the Basilica of San Clemente is undoubtedly the best possible place to take in the overlapping layers of Roman history.

Next, explore the underground level of San Nicola in Carcere, an 11th century church that houses Roman excavations. As you look on in awe, your guide will tell the story of the remains of three pagan temples dedicated to Janus, Juno and Hope hidden right here beneath the marble floor. Columns from the temples were incorporated into the church’s structure and are still visible today. Here the past and the very ancient past merge and coexist, offering the present-day visitor a magnificent display of superimposed archaeological eras.

Top off your tour with a thrilling descent into the underground maze of a catacomb and take a peek at the early centuries of Christian faith. Dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, catacombs are human-made subterranean tunnels and cubicles used as burial places by Rome’s first Christian communities. Located outside the city, as it was illegal to inter a dead body within the walls, the catacombs were also used for religious practices, such as commemorative services and feasts. Rome’s martyrs were given final rest in these underground sites and it is here that the worship of saints and relics originated. You will listen to stories of persecutions and discover how Christianity managed to survive and thrive in Pagan Rome. Your guide will accompany you through dimly-lit labyrinthine passageways, past funerary chambers and elucidate the meaning of the paintings, carved symbols and inscriptions that decorate the walls.

In the afternoon, following lunch and time at leisure, your chauffeur will pick you up and drive you to the Via Appia Antica where you will experience the thrill of cantering along the Regina Viarum – meaning Queen of Roads – just like the ancient Romans did – on horseback.

Located just ten kilometres from the Colosseum, the Ancient Appian Way offers visitors a breath of fresh air in the lush green area outside the centre as well as a unique opportunity to plunge into the capital’s centuries-old history. As the Latin expression goes Omnes viae Romam ducunt – meaning “all roads lead to Rome”. Have you ever wondered how this saying originated? This is where it all began. Running from Rome to the port of Brindisi, the Via Appia Antica was the earliest, widest and strategically most important road in the ancient Roman Republic. Flanked by extraordinary monuments, including mausoleums, ruins of patrician villas and traces of a thermal complex, today this 2,300-year-old cobblestone path continues to impress visitors and is known to be the best-preserved surviving Roman road.

Appropriate for horse riders with experience at any level, from beginners to seasoned cowboys, this activity is led by an expert instructor who can customise itineraries to suit different ages, needs and skills. The owner of the riding school has worked for twenty years in equestrian tourism and his family has lived on a property bordering the Ancient Appian Way for over a century, a guarantee of his in-depth knowledge of the area.

Enjoy the splendid views the Eternal City has to offer from the saddle. As you ride through history along the Ancient Appian Way, imagine chariots whizzing by and the Equites, the ancient Roman knights, galloping off to defend the borders of far-flung corners of the Empire. Just beyond the 5th milestone, you will come across the stunning archaeological remains of the Villa dei Quintili. Built by two wealthy brothers in the 2nd century AD, this prestigious ancient suburban residence was so spectacular that even Emperor Commodus, one of Rome’s most wicked rulers, was impressed by its grandiosity. Commodus grew so envious that he came up with a plan to claim the villa for himself. He charged the brothers with treason, had them sentenced to death and confiscated the property. As luck would have it, Commodus himself was killed ten years later in a conspiracy on this very spot. The imposing ruins of the villa’s thermal baths can still be admired and stand as a potent reminder: Covet all, lose all.

After the horseback ride return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

No trip to Rome would be complete without a guided tour of Trastevere with its maze of narrow cobblestone alleys, pavement cafes and bars, tiny restaurants and traditional workshops, not to mention washing lines that stretch across from one building to the next. Life spills out onto the streets here and while the district hums and bustles during the daytime, it is the night scene that attracts crowds of young people to the area at sundown. Trastevere or trans Tiberim, meaning beyond the Tiber, was once a strictly working class neighbourhood. Today it provides a heady mix of old and new, traditional and trendy, of rundown dilapidation and the very latest architectural design, of the mundane humdrum of everyday and an effervescent, inspirational explosion of colour and creativity. This neighbourhood is also the site of two American universities, Rome’s historic botanical gardens, the folklore museum, art galleries, numerous monuments, fountains, churches, piazzas and even a prison, housed in an ex-convent and named Regina Coeli, Queen of Heaven.

Your expert guide will lead you through the labyrinth of winding streets to Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, the very heart of the district. Carlo Fontana, who redesigned the portico of the ancient church in the 18th century, also created the octagonal fountain which graces the centre of the square and now serves as a popular meeting place. Inside the church you will see mosaics and marble columns that originally supported ancient Roman structures. Thought to be the first official place of Christian worship in all the city, it is full of captivating treasures and still very much part of community life today.

Another major landmark is Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, the church thought to be built on the site of her home. After failed attempts to burn her to death, Cecilia, the patron saint of music was decapitated here in 230 AD. Your guided walk will also take you past la Casa della Fornarina, believed to be the home of Margherita, Raphael’s famous model and mistress. Her reputation ruined, she took refuge in a convent after his death but you can still admire her in his paintings (if you happen to visit the Barberini Gallery). As you stroll through the area it would be hard to resist a peek at the river from Ponte Sisto, the footbridge, now well over 500 years old, that links this area to the rest of the city.

Villa Farnesina, one of the earliest Renaissance mansions built here and home of the wealthy banker Agostino Chigi, is a sheer delight and a must-see for visitors to Trastevere. The simplicity and harmony of the villa’s design combined with the classical-themed frescoes that decorate the walls and ceilings make this an unforgettable stop. In the loggia you will see and hear tales of Cupid and Psyche depicted on the vault, among greenery that suggests the garden is encroaching on the villa’s interior. Here the banker’s guests were treated to theatrical performances and elaborate shows. Downstairs you will meet Raphael’s irresistible Galatea and upstairs enjoy the illusion of looking out at scenes of Rome from behind Peruzzi’s painted marble columns.

Drenched in history and tradition, generously sprinkled with artistic gems and alive with contemporary delights, we think you’ll agree that Trastevere has earned its reputation as an all-time favourite with visitors to the city.

In the early afternoon, following free time for lunch, it’s time to visit Rome’s favourite art gallery, known internationally as the “Queen of art collections”.

Villa Borghese was conceived as a showcase for Cardinal Scipione Borghese’s extraordinarily rich and wide-ranging collection. Volumes have been written about the artworks displayed here and the mastermind behind the impressive purchases. Nephew of the powerful Pope Paul V, from whom he received numerous honours and appointments, Cardinal Scipione Borghese invested his ever-increasing fortune in developing, extending and embellishing the family’s hunting grounds and transforming their suburban residence into a beautifully decorated villa. His passion, or better obsession, for art led him to play the part of patron of acclaimed and controversial artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Caravaggio. Through remarkable acquisitions, exquisite taste and an impeccable eye, Cardinal Scipione created one of the world’s most outstanding private art collections.

As you wander through the gallery’s halls, gazing up at the works of art, enjoy true tales and anecdotes about famous representatives of the Borghese family and the artists who contributed to the splendour of the collection. With the help of your guide you will learn to pick out the qualities and techniques of some of these masters, examine at close quarters the brushstrokes and fine detail that make up the compositions and discover the hidden meanings relating to their iconography. You will also discuss the relationship between art, power, politics and propaganda and understand how the display of artistic treasures was used as a means of affirming social prestige in the 17th century.

Who could resist the sinuous beauty of Bernini’s David as he prepares to strike Goliath or the astonishing virtuosity and elegance of his Apollo and Daphne, caught and held for all time in the very moment she turns into a tree? Works by Raphael, Perugino, Titian and many more will be admired as you amble through the various rooms. Not only Italian masters but Flemish painters such as Brueghel and Rubens are also present in this exquisite collection. The grace of Canova’s life-size Paolina reclining on the sofa, golden apple in her hand or the drama and vivid detail of Bassano’s Last Supper are among the lasting Roman memories you will take away with you.

After the tour your private chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel.

Admire some of the greatest works of art ever created on a private tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Follow your guide right to the core of the Christian world and uncover the fascinating history preserved within the walls of the Vatican City. You will gain an understanding of the origins and development of a remarkable 500-year-old collection, retrace the lives of the artists who worked at the papal court and reconstruct the context in which the Vatican’s masterpieces were produced. Your guide will enrich your exploration by recounting intriguing tales about the protagonists of what was once one of the West’s most influential seats of power – and is today the smallest independent state in the world.

The beginnings of this unrivalled collection date back to 1506 when art lover Pope Julius II first started arranging his acquisitions of classical sculptures in the Octagonal Courtyard. This extraordinary – though originally modest – assembly of works was enhanced and extended throughout the centuries by successive pontiffs and evolved into the 7-kilometre-long treasure trove you see today. The dazzling array of wonders on display includes artefacts from so many different eras, traditions and artistic styles ranging from Egyptian steles to Renaissance fresco paintings, from Etruscan bronzes to 16th century maps. Where else can you find the finest sculptures of antiquity, priceless tapestries, Michelangelo and Raphael’s supreme achievements, all hanging out in the same space? Your guide will lead you back down the centuries, along a carefully planned trail, through the museum’s corridors and halls – impossible to cover all 1,400 of them! – and introduce you to the masterpieces no visitor should miss.

While you weave your way through the Pinecone Courtyard, the Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Hall of Maps and the Tapestries Gallery you will pick up a sense of this encyclopaedic collection spanning thousands of years. No doubt you will be moved at the sight of the Laocoon – a poignant representation of the anguish and agony suffered by a doomed family – and inspired by the aesthetic perfection of the Apollo del Belvedere and Torso del Belvedere. Your guided encounter with these ancient statues will give you a better understanding of Greek and Roman art and the ways in which Renaissance masters were later influenced by their muscular anatomies and emotional intensity.

Among the unmissable highlights of your tour are also Raphael’s Rooms, four exquisitely decorated chambers once belonging to Pope Julius II’s private apartments. Find out why a young painter from Urbino was chosen for such a prestigious commission and enjoy an introduction to the refined iconography of the School of Athens, Raphael’s best-known fresco depicting antiquity’s most illustrious philosophers.

But what draws millions of visitors to the Vatican Museums every year is the spectacular Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo spent eight years of his life in this sacred room painting what would become the most renowned and iconic images in the whole of Western art. As you gaze up at the stunning frescoes of the Creation of Adam and inspect the intricate composition of the Last Judgement your guide will help you spot fascinating details and decipher the secret messages left here by the Renaissance master in the 16th century. An account of Michelangelo’s life, career and priceless legacy will allow you to gain a deeper appreciation of his unparalleled genius.

The final stop on your tour will lead you to St. Peter’s Basilica, located on the site of what is believed to be the burial place of the apostle and topped by one of the largest masonry domes ever built. Michelangelo’s moving Pietà, a universal icon of maternal tenderness and sorrow, and Bernini’s bronze baldachin cast a deep impression on all those who visit this magnificent church.

Walk out into St. Peters Square, this unique centre of power and glory, where the faithful have gathered for centuries to celebrate great Christian events and catch a glimpse of their Pope, embraced in the curve of its open arms.

After the tour return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast and check out meet your private driver outside your hotel and set off for Sorrento. En route stop to enjoy a food tour of Naples. Your guide will be waiting at the meeting point ready to lead you on a trail past the city’s best-loved epicurean landmarks, while revealing the culinary traditions of the homeland of pizza – the best-known symbol of Italian gastronomy.

You may not know that the origins of pizza date back to the ancient Greeks and Romans who enjoyed baked flat breads that were topped with olive oil and local spices, delicacies that today we would call focaccia breads. The word pizza derives from ancient Greek pektos meaning solid or baked.

The origin of the modern pizza is, however, something of a mystery. Neapolitan baker Raffaele Esposito is often credited with the honour of being the very first pizza-maker. According to a popular urban legend, shortly after Italy’s unification, King Umberto I and his wife Queen Margherita, took a trip to Naples. While there, the queen grew bored of French cuisine, which was popular at that time in southern Italy, and requested that something more local be prepared. Chef Esposito did just that. He created a selection of three pizzas for her pleasure, one of which was chosen by the Queen as her favourite and supposedly named after her. This pizza was topped with three ingredients whose colours recall the Italian flag: basil (green), buffalo mozzarella (white) and tomato sauce (red). And that’s how Pizza Margherita was invented in 1889, triggering a culinary tradition that began in Naples and spread throughout the world.

But Naples is so much more than pizza! Sink your teeth into the city’s culture and traditions on a discovery journey of its flavoursome treats. Your private guide will lead you through the city centre, sprinkled with cafes, ice cream parlours, restaurants and wineries and point out Neapolitans’ best-loved haunts. You will have the opportunity to see where locals meet, eat and purchase food and find out how gastronomy permeates daily life here.

Kick off your day in true Neapolitan style delighting your senses on a ritual coffee at the renowned Scaturchio bar. Then drop in at a celebrated pastry shop to savour traditional local sweets, including scrumptious sfogliatelle, baba soaked in rum and zeppole filled with cream. Your eating adventure might also cover street food kiosks, a deli store, a confectioner’s and a gelateria. No food tour of Naples would be complete without a taste of limoncello… cheers to Bella Napoli!

After the tour rejoin your driver and reach your hotel in Sorrento where you will be staying for 3 nights. Following check in spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Explore the dream island of Capri and soak up its magical atmosphere on this full-day excursion from Sorrento.

Ravishing landscapes, crystal-clear waters, glorious sunshine and tempting cuisine have long attracted writers, artists, philosophers and rulers to this Mediterranean haven. For over 2,000 years Capri has mesmerized travellers with its extraordinary allure. Indeed the island’s first tourists were the ancient Romans, drawn to its shores in search of beauty and tranquillity. Roman aristocrats and emperors would reach Sorrento on horseback or by carriage, then sail nine miles to Capri to escape the summer heat and relax away from the pressing demands and duties of the Caput Mundi. After the collapse of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD, Capri was gradually abandoned and repeatedly sacked by the Arabs and corsairs throughout the Middle Ages. It was only in the mid-1700s that the island began to regain its well-deserved fame due to the renewed interest in the region of Campania aroused by the fascinating findings unearthed in Pompeii and Herculaneum. In 1826 the rediscovery of a natural wonder, the Blue Grotto, enhanced the island’s appeal leading Capri to become one of the most sought after destinations for generations of Grand Tour travellers in the 19th century. Capri’s popularity as a peaceful Mediterranean retreat and glamorous meeting spot is still unrivalled today. Discover why on this treasure island spree.

After breakfast you will meet your guide and driver at your accommodation and reach the harbour. Here, your skipper will be waiting ready to lead you on a boat trip to Capri. Hop onto your private speedboat and let the adventure begin! You will cruise past rugged sea cliffs, marvel at astonishing rock formations and dip into the limpid waters of idyllic coves. As you navigate smoothly along Capri’s coast, your guide will point out major features of interest, including the legendary Faraglioni rocks, the soaring Arco Naturale, Villa Malaparte and Tiberius’ precipice. Depending on queues, sea and weather conditions, you might want to take a peek inside the Blue Grotto, the island’s best-known natural attraction, named after the blue light that reverberates inside this splendid sea cave. Sunlight filters through an underwater cavity creating a dazzling azure glow that must have enchanted visitors 2,000 years ago just as it still does today. In ancient Roman times this was one of Emperor Tiberius’ favourite haunts. He chose the Blue Grotto as his private swimming pool and turned it into a marine temple, embellishing the cave with several statues of sea gods. For centuries the grotto was thought to be inhabited by evil spirits and all in the area steered well clear of it whereas now it is a marvel in which everyone delights – high tides permitting. Jump aboard a small rowing boat, duck your head, glide through the low cave opening and you will find yourself in another world.

After a morning spent at sea, swimming, snorkelling and soaking up the sun, dock at the port of Marina Grande. Your guide will accompany you to the tiny world-famous Piazzetta and indicate a choice of restaurants for lunch.

In the afternoon discover more of Capri’s beauty spots from terra firma. A short taxi ride will take you to the island’s upper village, Anacapri, where you will visit the former residence of Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe. Located on a towering plateau about 320 metres above sea level, Villa San Michele embodies the dreams of its visionary creator: “My house shall be open to the sun, to the wind, and the voice of the sea, just like a Greek temple, and light, light, light everywhere!” The rooms of this 19th century hideout are filled with Dr Munthe’s original furnishings and precious collection of antiquities, including marble and bronze sculptures, fragments of sarcophagi, columns, capitals and bas-reliefs. Brightly coloured azaleas, roses and hydrangeas bloom in the lovingly tended gardens, punctuated by stone seats that once must have provided prominent guests with a welcome place to rest. As you amble under the wisteria pergola and pause on the outdoor terrace, imagine the Swedish Queen Victoria – Munthe’s special friend – revelling in the views of the dramatic cliffs cascading down into the jewel-toned waters below.

But it gets even better… enjoy an exhilarating chairlift ride up to the summit of Mount Solaro, soaring 589 meters above the sea, and feast your eyes on the spellbinding panorama stretching all the way to the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

Later, return to the port of Marina Grande, rejoin your skipper and sail back to Sorrento. Your chauffeur will pick you up at the harbour and drive you to your hotel after a day packed with such unbelievably fantastic sights you might find yourself wondering if it really happened.

After breakfast meet your private driver at your accommodation and relax on the ride to Pompeii. Your guide will be waiting at the excavations ready to lead you on a tour of one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites.

Buried in deadly volcanic ash after the sudden eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and accidentally discovered in 1748, Pompeii is an absolute must for first-time visitors to Italy. Your guide will take you on a carefully planned trail through this incredible ancient settlement and explain the purpose and function of the foundations and buildings you will see along the way. You will also find out about the lifestyle and customs of those who inhabited them, the techniques used to uncover and interpret findings made here and the evidence that has been pieced together to give us such a stunningly vivid and accurate picture of Roman Campania. Although much excavation work remains to be done and conservation presents the curators with a massive challenge, what you can still see and touch here is simply astounding.

Step back in time as you access the excavations through the city gate of Porta Marina. Once inside, follow your guide through the ruins of the ancient city and conjure up scenes of Pompeii’s inhabitants as they go about their daily chores. Can you imagine how life must have been in this once thriving agricultural and trading centre peacefully perched in the shadow of mighty Mount Vesuvius, unaware of the imminent disaster, 2,000 years ago? How did Pompeii’s 15,000 residents spend their time? What were their occupations, beliefs and traditions? What did they eat? Which leisure activities did they enjoy? The answers to these and many more questions are securely safeguarded within Pompeii’s crumbling walls, jigsaw pieces in a tantalizing, real life puzzle just waiting to be reassembled – with a little help from your guide.

When you walk along the well-planned streets, taking the very same route once trodden by faithful temple-goers and busy market traders, you’ll notice the road building skills that were needed to set the large paving blocks in place and the high kerbs and stepping stones conveniently arranged to allow people to cross without getting their feet wet and dirty. This is just one small but significant example of the ingenuity of the ancient Romans in the fields of engineering and urban planning, achievements which remained unequalled for centuries and whose remarkable legacy continues to guide us to this day. Our culinary habits, pastimes and vices too may well have their roots here. From fast foods to spas, from red light districts to gambling the ancient Romans of Pompeii were already seasoned experts in the pleasures and transgressions of the city.

Your guide will certainly point out Pompeii’s age-old venues for public meetings: the forum, once the site of the market, administrative offices and court; the thermal baths where citizens came to relax, play sports and socialize; the temples, a source of precious clues to our understanding of the creed and religious rituals of yesteryear’s worshippers. Theatres were popular with the locals who gathered here to watch a varied calendar of shows, such as Greek tragedies, musical performances, poetry readings and the much-loved light-hearted plays that featured frauds, betrayals and brawls. You will also take a peek inside a private residential villa which provides a wonderful example of the layout of a wealthy citizen’s dwelling and the decorative tastes of the age.

Casts of the bodies of the ill-fated population, trapped forever at the very moment of death, leave the visitor with a particularly haunting memory of a cataclysmic event that has meticulously secured for us so much priceless knowledge about the Roman way of life.

After the tour a delicious tasting menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients will be served at a Michelin-star restaurant in Vico Equense.

Your private chauffeur will drive you back to your accommodation in the early afternoon.

After breakfast and check out meet your private driver outside your hotel and set off for Ravello. En route stop to enjoy some independent sightseeing in Positano and Amalfi. You will take in Campania’s most amazing landscapes and dip into the history and myths that surround its favourite seaside resorts.

Nestled between steep slopes and the sea, along an enchanting stretch of coastline, Positano strikes visitors with its magical allure and picture perfect hues. John Steinbeck captured its fascination with these famous lines: “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone”. A jumble of pink, amber and white houses encircles the multi-coloured majolica-tiled dome of the cathedral and stands out against the lush green background of the Monti Lattari; in the foreground pebbled beaches and the crystalline waters lend touches of silver-grey and turquoise. Cheerfully patterned and exquisitely hand-painted ceramic pieces on display outside the shops and set into the walls of the buildings provide additional splashes of red, cobalt-blue, yellow and jade… Positano is a divine experiment with colour. According to a local myth the town was founded by Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, as a gift to his beloved nymph Pasitea. A glamorous resort, offering enticing cuisine, wonderful seascape views and a tranquil respite, Positano keeps attracting “willing prisoners of a legendary landscape” – as early 20th century spellbound holiday-goers used to define themselves. Explore the town’s narrow alleys filled with boutiques, pottery stores and tempting eateries, before moving on to Amalfi.

Set at the foot of Monte Cerreto, the small town of Amalfi is, nonetheless, the largest on the coast. It may be hard to believe that in its 10th and 11th century heyday this tiny jewel of a town was a maritime superpower that successfully dominated Mediterranean trade routes, rivalling Genoa, Pisa and Venice. Folklore claims that Amalfi owes its name to a beautiful nymph with whom Hercules had fallen in love. After her premature and tragic death, the Roman hero searched the world over to locate a place that could match her splendour and decided to bury her on this very spot. Above her tomb he built a town in her honour ensuring her name and charm would live for eternity.

A plaque welcomes visitors to Amalfi with the following poetic statement: “The day of judgment, for Amalfitans that go to Heaven will be a day like any other”. A treasure trove of artistic and architectural wonders, the town is sure to impress. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Amalfi’s lively streets, revel in breathtaking views from the waterfront and take a peek inside the medieval Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, sitting proudly atop a steep flight of steps on the main square. The mortal remains of Saint Andrew, stolen from Constantinople in 1206, lie under the altar in the lavishly decorated crypt. The adjoining Cloister of Paradise, with its interlaced Moorish-style arches enclosing a garden, is well worth a visit. Originally built in 1266 as a burial place for the local aristocracy, today this peaceful corner offers a shady retreat to visitors basking in the beauty of sunny coastal sights.

In the afternoon rejoin your private driver and reach Ravello. After checking into your hotel, where you will be staying for 3 nights, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Get a true taste of Ravello on this hands-on cooking class. A local chef will open the doors of his restaurant’s kitchen and share his secrets with you.

Food has always been central to the hearts of Campanians to such an extent that hundreds of popular proverbs and sayings in common use are inspired by gastronomy and the act of cooking. A carne ‘a sotto e ‘e maccarune ‘ncoppa (“Meat goes underneath and macaroni on the top”) means that things don’t always turn out the way they should as sauce and meat are usually on the top of the macaroni and not the other way round. A cervella è ‘na sfoglia ‘e cipolle (“The brain is the skin of the onion”) is a way to say that somebody can go mad easily since the human mind is as delicate and flaky as the outer skin of the onion. A meglia mericina: vino e campagna e purpette e cucina (“The best medicine: wine, the countryside, meatballs and cooking”) is a tribute to the therapeutic properties of exquisite cuisine.

Look after your hearts, souls and stomachs on this restorative cooking lesson. In a lovely setting, under the guidance of a friendly instructor, gourmands will discover traditional recipes, pick up some precious tips on the region’s celebrated cuisine and learn how to prepare a delicious meal in true Campanian style. After picking the seasonal herbs and vegetables needed for the cooking lesson, head for the kitchen, don your aprons, roll up your sleeves and enjoy creating simple, nutritious, but truly mouth-watering dishes.

After the class take a seat around the dinner table and tuck into your pranzo… Buon appetito!

In the afternoon you will visit a lemon grove located on the steep hills above Amalfi. Here, accompanied by one of the owners, you will enjoy an introduction to farm life and discover the difficulties and challenges of living in this enchanting, though unpromising, stretch of coast. Top off your day with a tasting of homemade lemon cake and limoncello, before returning to Ravello.

Relish the flavours of an authentic, unspoiled rural world on this half-day food and wine experience. Wine enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to visit a farm located in the regional park of the Lattari Mountains where rare, centuries-old vineyards can still be found.

After breakfast meet your ape calessino driver in Ravello and begin your day with a pleasant ride to the winery. The estate covers eight hectares and was established in 2004 by three farming families who shared the aim of reviving ancient viticultural traditions. All of the vineyards are planted in volcanic soil and situated on steep terraced slopes, between three hundred and five hundred metres above sea level. The highlight of the farm is a historical pre-phylloxera vineyard, dating back three hundred years, where Tintore and Piedirosso grape varieties are grown. The fruit of these vines makes a valuable contribution to the estate’s much-praised signature wine.

You will enjoy a tour of the vineyards and 17th century wine cellar and learn all about the estate’s philosophy, values and production methods which centre on respect for the environment and eco-sustainability. By selecting a butterfly as one of its symbols, the estate aims to demonstrate its commitment to preserving and protecting nature and to supporting the region’s efforts to reduce the use of phytochemicals. After the visit sit down to a delicious home cooked meal made with local prime quality ingredients and paired with a selection of the estate’s wines.

After lunch your chauffeur will pick you up and drive you back to Ravello where you may spend the rest of the day at leisure. With its charming hilltop location, unparalleled panoramas and splendid gardens, Ravello has captivated countless artists, writers and musicians throughout the centuries. Founded in the 400s as a refuge from the Barbarian invasions, the town flourished under the rule of Amalfi when wealthy merchants built its most famous villas. Highlights include the Church of San Giovanni del Toro, home to the pulpit mosaics that prompted M.C. Escher to create his interweaving patterns; Villa Rufolo, whose atmospheric setting inspired the enchanted Garden of Klingsor of Wagner’s Parsifal; Villa Cimbrone, world-known for its belvedere poetically named Terrace of the Infinite.

Ravello also prides itself on a thriving tradition of ceramic-making. As you wander through its streets you’ll encounter a number of pottery shops selling beautifully displayed and exquisitely hand-painted goods, including plates, vases, fruit bowls, mugs and limoncello cups. You’ll find much to feast your eyes on in this lovely little town!

After breakfast and check out, which will take place before 10:00 or 11:00 AM, meet your private driver in Ravello and head for the airport or your next travel destination.