HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE ON ITALY'S GREAT CITIES TOUR?
Small groups typically range from 8–12 guests, with a maximum of 16.
IS THE TOUR FAST-PACED?
No. The tour is intentionally balanced, allowing time to explore, reflect, and enjoy each destination.
ARE MEALS INCLUDED?
Daily breakfasts and select group dinners are included, with time built in to explore independently.
WHAT IS THE NOW JOURNEY HOTELS COLLECTION?
Deluxe Hotels Collection
Our Deluxe Collection features thoughtfully selected 4- and 5-star hotels, with upgraded room categories at 4-star properties and refined entry-level rooms at 5-star stays. Guests may further elevate their experience by inquiring with their Trip Specialist about larger rooms or higher-category accommodations with specific views, where available.
Classic Hotels Collection
Our Classic Collection offers well-located 3-star-plus hotels, featuring private bathrooms, air conditioning, continental breakfast, and heart-of-the-city locations.
IS THIS TOUR RIGHT FOR SOLO TRAVELERS?
Yes. Many of our guests travel solo. Our small group size and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to connect with fellow travelers, while still offering personal space and independence. Solo travelers may choose a private room or request a roommate when available.
HOW MUCH WALKING IS TYPICAL?
Expect moderate walking most days, especially in historic city centers where cobblestones and stairs are common. Activities are unhurried, with regular breaks, and alternatives are often available. Guests should be comfortable walking several miles over the course of a day at a relaxed pace.
ARE AIRPORT TRANSFERS INCLUDED?
Arrival and departure airport transfers are included on official tour start and end days when arriving within the recommended arrival windows. Detailed arrival instructions are provided prior to departure to ensure a smooth experience.
WHAT’S INCLUDED VS. NOT INCLUDED?
Included: boutique hotels, daily breakfasts, select lunches and dinners, private transportation during the tour, admissions for scheduled activities, local guides, and the services of a Now Journey Tour Captain.
Not included: international airfare, travel insurance, most lunches and dinners, optional activities, and personal expenses such as souvenirs.
CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE DIETARY NEEDS?
Yes. We regularly accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, gluten-free, and food allergies. Requests should be noted at booking so our team and local partners can plan accordingly.
HOW DO THE 10-, 12-, AND 14-DAY VERSIONS DIFFER?
All versions share the same thoughtful approach and core destinations.
10-day: A streamlined experience focusing on key highlights.
12-day: Our most balanced option, allowing deeper immersion and a more relaxed pace.
14-day: Adds extra nights and special experiences for travelers who want the fullest, most unhurried journey.
IS THIS TOUR GOOD FOR FIRST-TIME ITALY TRAVELERS?
Absolutely. Italy’s Great Cities Tour is one of our most popular journeys for first-time visitors to Italy. The itinerary balances iconic highlights with thoughtfully paced experiences, local guides, and built-in free time.
IS THIS A LUXURY ITALY TOUR?
We consider this a premium small-group Italy experience focused on boutique hotels, exceptional locations, curated dining, comfort, and personalized touring rather than traditional large-group travel.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF GUESTS?
Most guests are typically between their late 40s and early 70s, though ages vary widely. Guests usually share a love of culture, travel, food, and meaningful experiences.
IS THIS TOUR ACTIVE?
This is considered a moderately active tour. Guests should feel comfortable walking through historic cities, navigating cobblestone streets, and remaining on their feet during sightseeing.
ARE FLIGHTS INCLUDED?
International airfare is not included. This gives guests flexibility with preferred airlines, schedules, upgrades, and loyalty programs.
IS THIS A BUS TOUR?
No. This is intentionally designed as a small-group touring experience — not a traditional large bus tour. Groups typically travel in premium vans or small luxury coaches depending on group size.
WHAT MAKES SMALL GROUP TOURING BETTER?
Smaller groups create a more personal and immersive experience with easier movement through historic cities, more interaction with guides, less waiting, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.
IS ITALY SAFE?
Italy is generally considered very safe for travelers. As with any destination, guests should remain aware of their surroundings and take normal precautions regarding valuables in busy tourist areas.
IS TIPPING INCLUDED?
Tipping for local guides and drivers is generally not included unless specifically stated. Your Tour Captain will provide guidance on customary tipping throughout the journey.
IS THERE FREE TIME?
Yes — free time is an important part of the Now Journey experience. Guests will have opportunities to explore independently, relax, shop, or enjoy local cafés and neighborhoods throughout Italy.
What hotels do you use?
We select well-located boutique and select luxury hotels known for comfort, character, and service. Examples may include historic properties in Venice, elegant city hotels in Florence and Rome, and distinctive regional hotels in Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast. Final hotel details are shared before departure.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect your investment and cover unforeseen circumstances such as trip interruption, medical needs, or delays. We provide guidance on reputable insurance providers after booking.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 9–15 months in advance, especially for peak travel seasons. Our small group size means departures can fill quickly, and early booking offers the best choice of dates and accommodations.
IS THIS TOUR GOOD FOR FIRST-TIME ITALY TRAVELERS?
Absolutely. Italy’s Great Cities Tour is one of our most popular journeys for first-time visitors to Italy. The itinerary balances iconic highlights like Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast with thoughtfully paced experiences, local guides, and built-in free time. Guests experience Italy deeply without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
IS THIS A LUXURY ITALY TOUR?
We consider this a premium small-group Italy experience. Rather than ultra-formal luxury, the focus is on comfort, authenticity, boutique hotels, exceptional locations, curated dining, and highly personalized touring. Guests enjoy thoughtfully selected hotels, smaller groups, quality transportation, and meaningful experiences throughout Italy.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE AGE OF GUESTS?
Most guests are typically between their late 40s and early 70s, though ages vary widely. What guests usually share most is a love of travel, culture, good food, and meaningful experiences rather than a specific age group.
IS THIS TOUR ACTIVE?
This is considered a moderately active tour. Guests should feel comfortable walking through historic cities, navigating cobblestone streets, climbing occasional stairs, and remaining on their feet during sightseeing. The pace is intentionally balanced, with downtime built into the itinerary.
ARE FLIGHTS INCLUDED?
International airfare is not included. This gives guests the flexibility to use preferred airlines, flight schedules, upgrades, or loyalty programs. Our team can provide recommended arrival and departure airports and timing guidance.
IS THIS A BUS TOUR?
No. This is intentionally designed as a small-group touring experience — not a traditional large bus tour. Groups typically travel in premium vans or small luxury coaches depending on group size, creating a more personal, flexible, and comfortable experience throughout Italy.
WHAT MAKES SMALL GROUP TOURING BETTER?
Smaller groups create a more personal and immersive travel experience. With only 8–12 guests (maximum 16), guests move more easily through historic cities, enjoy more meaningful interaction with guides and fellow travelers, experience less waiting, and often gain access to places and experiences larger groups cannot comfortably enjoy.
IS ITALY SAFE?
Italy is generally considered very safe for travelers, especially within the destinations visited on this tour. As with any major destination, guests should remain aware of their surroundings and take normal precautions regarding valuables, especially in busy tourist areas. Your Tour Captain also provides practical guidance throughout the journey.
IS TIPPING INCLUDED?
Tipping for local guides and drivers is generally not included unless specifically stated. Your Tour Captain will provide guidance on customary tipping throughout the journey. Many guests appreciate the flexibility of tipping based on personal satisfaction and experience.
IS THERE FREE TIME?
Yes — free time is an important part of the Now Journey experience. While the tour includes curated sightseeing and experiences, guests also have time to wander independently, enjoy cafés, shop, relax, or follow personal interests throughout Italy.
Planning Travel for 2026 or 2027?
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