Read all about it – 40% off escorted tours

2017 Viva Italia Tours. Save up to $1200 per person Four Great Italian Tours to choose from below Destination International is celebrating the launch of their 2017 Escorted Italy Coach Tours! Monthly departures from May to October 2017. Four amazing tour that cover Italy from head to toe. Save up to $1200 per person. Phone 1300 813391. www.ditravel.com.au Pay your deposit of $200 per person by 31 Oct 2016. Discover the magic of our Italy tours with DI Travel! On these Italian tours of a lifetime, you can enjoy and explore Italia… the country of love and passion. Our exciting tours of Italy takes visitors on a journey that covers some of the most stunning destinations such as Rome, Venice, the picturesque Italian Lake District, Tuscany, Sicily and Italian Riviera and the Amalfi Coast. On all of our Italy tours, you have plenty of opportunities to taste the unique flavours of Italy such as classic Italian pizza, spaghetti carbonara and richly delicious risotto. If you're looking to soak up history and culture then a visit to Rome is a must. The city itself is a huge open-air museum where you can really discover what the Romans did with mighty monuments such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, The Spanish Steps and the Panthenon to admire. You can see some of this formidable art in Vatican City where Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and created the masterpiece David at the East End of Florence Cathedral. No tours of Italy would be the same without gliding along the famous waterways of Venice in a gondola or experiencing the fantastic Venice Carnival consisting of 10 days and nights of masquerade madness from the beautiful Grand Canal Flotilla to the Calcio Storico fancy-dress football match in the Piazza San Marco

TUSCANY, ITALY 7 days escorted tour from $1100 per person. Monthly departures June, July Oct 2017 11 June, 09 July, 01 Oct 2017 Normally $1830 per person. Save $730 per person. Experience the fantastic food, rich culture, beautiful landscapes and historic medieval cities of the Tuscan region of Italy. We'll visit hilltowns including Siena, Monteriggioni, San Gimignano and Montepulciano, which have remained largely unchanged since Tuscany's heyday in the medieval and Renaissance periods. Other highlights include visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa and included guided walking tours of Florence and the Vatican City. You'll also have a free day, during which you can visit Cinque Terre, five beautiful coastal towns on the Italian Riviera. Like all DI Travel bus tours, this itinerary is a guaranteed departure, and you will be accompanied for the duration by an experienced and passionate tour leader. Our tour busses are modern, comfortable and air conditioned, and at each hotel we include free wi-fi in your tour package so you can stay connected and share all your incredible photos and memories with your friends and family while on tour!

DAY 1: Arrive in Rome

Welcome to Rome! The first day of the tour is an arrivals day: meet up with your tour guide at our accommodation in the afternoon and prepare for the tour of a lifetime! If you arrive early, head into the city and see some of the sites that make Rome famous the world over. An ancient city that has seen the rise and fall of entire empires, there is no shortage of historical real estate to feast your eyes on. Not to mention designer shopping and brilliant food. Tonight, you’ll meet the rest of the tour group at our included welcome dinner.

DAY 2: Monteriggioni - San Gimignano - Siena

Today is a bumper day of Tuscan delights! Our first stop is Monteriggioni, a stunning hilltop walled town with almost perfectly intact medieval walls. We’ll then visit the medieval town of San Gimignano to experience its iconic tower houses. This evening we'll stay in Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the 'Palio' horse race. To round off a brilliant day of exploring we’ll enjoy an included dinner this evening.

DAY 3: Pisa - Lucca - Siena

Today we’ll visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and two historic towns in the Tuscan hills. Our first destination is the famous town of Pisa to get a few shots of its distinctive Leaning Tower. Now over 800 years old, it’s a classic sight in Italy and well worth a visit. Our next destination before we return to our hotel is the city of Lucca. As we approach, you’ll notice the imposing and immaculately

preserved Renaissance-era city walls, and we’ll enjoy a guided tour walking tour so you can experience the history and charm for yourself.

DAY 4: Tuscany - Free day

Enjoy a free day to explore Tuscany and the surrounding area. You have the option of taking an excursion to Cinque Terre, which literally translates as ‘Five Lands’ and consists of five coastal cliffside towns linked by rail and by footpaths. Overlooking the Mediterranean and amply supplied with fresh produce from the surrounding farms and homesteads, this is a region with all the ingredients to make for an unforgettable day.

DAY 5: Florence - Tuscany

Today we’ll visit Florence, the capital city of Tuscany. On arrival, a local guide will introduce us to the city, introducing us to many of the most famous sites and providing a local insight. Sights to see in Florence include Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Florence Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Croce

and of course Michelangelo’s David. A cultural and political focal point during the Renaissance, Florence is endowed with a huge variety of important buildings and famous artworks. You’ll have free time to explore all these sights before we return to our accommodation in the Tuscan hills.

DAY 6: Montepulciano - Rome

As we travel through south Tuscany and back towards Rome, we’ll stop off in Montepulciano, a medieval and Renaissance hill town standing on a high ridge in the hills. Within the walls little development has taken place since architects including Sangallo il Vecchio and Michelozzo built the city in the 15th and 16th centuries, producing an alluring mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Today is unfortunately your last full day on tour, so after our fill of Tuscan hill towns we’ll visit a winery to enjoy a wine tasting and farewell lunch.

DAY 7: Vatican City - Rome

TASTE OF ITALY: 8 days escorted tour from $1799 per person.. Monthly departures May to Oct 2017 02, 15, 30 May or 02, 08 or 27 June, or 06, 25 July 02, 22, 31 Aug or 19 Sept or 17 Oct 2017 Normally $1999 per person. Save $200 per person. Known for its majestic history, rich culture and inviting climate, our Italy tours take you to one of the most frequented destinations in the world. The Taste of Italy tour is the ideal way to experience all that this country has to offer! With numerous destinations and an itinerary that allows for personal time to explore, this tour is perfect for first-time visitors as well as seasoned travellers. This Italy tour is certain to captivate your heart and soul. What are some of the must-see spots that are included? This journey will take you to all of the most vaunted cities within the country. Examples include Rome, Siena, Venice, Florence and Tuscany. As we appreciate the countless sights and architectural masterpieces in each location, there are also free days that provide an unfettered experience to the visitor. From sampling local wines and pasta to gazing at massive works such as the Coliseum or the Venetian canals, a kaleidoscope of riches awaits. This 8 day tour of Italy will likewise provide truly majestic views of the natural countryside. The rolling hills of Tuscany and the picturesque shores of Lake Garda offer excellent photo opportunities or merely a quiet day to enjoy the fresh air and sunny skies. As if all of these destinations were not reasons enough to choose an 8 day tour of Italy, the luxuries provided by DI Travel are also impressive and should be mentioned. These include modern and spacious coaches, free hotel Wi-Fi service, confirmed departure days and a minimum initial deposit of only ten per cent of the total cost. Of course, these are all combined with the unbeatable rates that have served to define such unparalleled service.

DAY 1: Rome

Welcome to Rome! The first day of the tour is an arrivals day: meet up with your tour guide at our accommodation in the afternoon and prepare for the tour of a lifetime! If you arrive early, head into the city and see some of the sites that make Rome famous the world over. An ancient city that has seen the rise and fall of entire empires, there is no shortage of historical real estate to feast your eyes on. Not to mention designer shopping and brilliant food. Tonight, you’ll meet the rest of the tour group at our included welcome dinner.

DAY 2: Rome

Today we’ll take a guided walking tour of the city, stopping off at the landmarks that have made Rome a perennial favourite with travellers all over the world. See ancient Roman architecture, medieval buildings, Renaissance artworks and more remnants of Rome’s illustrious past as capital of this incredible country – and of the Roman Empire at large. Be sure to see sightseeing highlights like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon and the countless other attractions that make Rome famous the world over. Later, you’ll have the option of taking a guided walking tour

of the Vatican City. Marvel at glittering artworks, vast marble halls and opulent architecture – all part and parcel of the Vatican’s status as the seat of papal power. Eating and drinking well is also an important part of Roman life, and as they say, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’ Try excellent Italian cuisine, and be sure to grab a famous Roman gelato while you’re sight-seeing!

DAY 3: Rome - Verona - Venice

Today, we’ll be driving to Venice, and on the way we'll make a stop in Verona for a look at Juliet’s balcony – where Juliet is said to have been wooed by Romeo. Arriving in Venice this afternoon, we'll get a classic Venetian view from the famous Rialto Bridge on our orientation walking tour. While in Venice you also have the opportunity to board a gondola and see Venice the traditional way, try classic Venetian cuisine, visit the famous museums and art galleries and simply get the full Venetian experience! Alternatively you can relax and soak up the sun on the sandy beaches at Jesolo or Lido. Not to mention, there’s also St Marks Square, The Bridge of Sighs and the Doge’s Palace to see.

DAY 4: Venice - Free day

Take the time to explore today on your free day in Venice. Marvel at this incredible city, which features more artistic masterpieces per square kilometre than any other place on earth! Speak with your DI Travel tour leader for suggestions for your free day in Venice.

DAY 5: Lake Garda - Florence - Tuscany

Today, we make our way to the beautiful city of Florence, stopping along the way in Lake Garda for a photo opportunity. Then, we make our way to Florence for a guided walking tour. Learn more about the heritage of this city, which stretches back through the ages to encompass Renaissance artworks and Roman ruins. Sights to see in Florence include Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Florence Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Croce and of course Michelangelo’s David. A cultural and political focal point during the Renaissance, Florence is endowed with a huge variety of important buildings and famous artworks. We’ll then make our way to our accommodation in Tuscany.

DAY 6: Tuscany - Free day

Enjoy the option of a free day today in beautiful Tuscany, where options include further time in the city of Florence or exploring the spa town of Montecatini. You also have the option of joining a free optional excursion to Pisa and Cinque Terre! A highlight of any tour to Italy, you’ll be able to snap photos of this legendary structure and explore the grounds. We will then continue on to the stunning coastal town of La Spezia, the gateway to the Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre literally means ‘Five Lands’ and consists of five coastal cliff-side towns linked by rail and by footpaths. Overlooking the Mediterranean and amply supplied with fresh produce from the surrounding farms and homesteads, this is a region with all the ingredients to make for an unforgettable day.

DAY 7: San Gimignano - Siena - Rome

Today will give you more chance to enjoy Tuscany! We make our way through one of the world’s most picturesque countryside landscapes, admiring Tuscan farmhouses, vineyards and olive groves as we drive by. We will make a stop in San Gimignano to sample local wines and antipasto, before

visiting the medieval Tuscan town of Siena. The town is famous for the 'Palio' horse race and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We round off the day with dinner when we arrive back in Rome.

DAY 8: End of tour

After breakfast, your 8 day Italian tour concludes. It is time to say your goodbyes to your fellow travellers, and of course, the incredible land of Italy. Arrivederci, Italia!

ITALY & SICILY: 10 days escorted tour from $1500 per person.. Monthly departures May to Sept 2017 Departs 31 May, 27 June. 25 July, 22 Aug, 19 Sept. Normally $2499 per person. Save $999 per person. Discover the magic of southern Italy on our brand new tour! One of the most visited destinations in the world, Italy serves up centuries of incredible history, rich culture and, of course, fantastic food! Over 10 days you will visit all the highlights of southern Italy and the island

of Sicily, with plenty of free time to explore, and accompanied for the duration of the tour by a passionate and experienced DI Travel tour leader. Starting in Rome, you will experience amazing destinations including the ancient city of Pompeii and the Sorrento peninsula, followed by the famous 'trulli' houses of Alberobello in the Apulia region. We'll then head west through the beautiful Reggio Calabria region, from where we'll take a ferry across to Sicily. Our first base is Taormina, which offers incredible views of Mount Etna. We'll then spend the next three days exploring Siciliy in-depth, including a free day to explore the islands capital, Palermo.

DAY 1: Arrive in Rome

Welcome to Rome! Meet up with your tour guide at our hotel in the afternoon and prepare for the tour of a lifetime! This evening, we’ll enjoy a ‘Rome by night’ driving tour, where you’ll see the many historical sights of Ancient Rome, including the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum and Pantheon. During the tour we will stop off at a local restaurant for dinner so you can really get to know the other passengers on your tour.

DAY 2: Rome - Sorrento

Leaving Rome, we’ll head to the Sorrento peninsula, stopping off along the way to see Mount Vesuvius and to explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, destroyed in 79AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption. Upon arrival on the Sorrento peninsula we have a two night stay. This area is famous for limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur), the perfect way to finish off your included dinner this evening!

DAY 3: Sorrento - Free day

A gorgeous old town hugging the coastline, the Sorrento peninsula is our base for the day. Explore the towns in your own time, or alternatively choose our optional excursion to the famous Isle of Capri, where you can spend some free time exploring the rugged coastline, ancient Roman ruins and stylish piazzas.

DAY 4: Sorrento - Alberobello

Today we’ll head east and explore the southern Italian region of Apulia. Arriving in Alberobello around midday, we’ll enjoy an orientation tour of the region's famous ‘trullo’ houses. These beautiful 14th century whitewashed stone huts have iconic conical roofs, and are specific to the Itria Valley. This afternoon you’ll have free time to further explore Alberobello; check out the trullo church of St Antony and the trulli museum.

DAY 5: Alberobello - Matera - Taormina

This morning we’ll make our way to the ‘football’ of Italy, taking a comfort stop along the way in the ancient cave city of Matera. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), it is famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts, the ‘sassi’. We’ll then take a drive through the beautiful Reggio Calabria region before enjoying a ferry crossing to the island of Sicily. Prepare for a stunning view of Mount Etna as we make our way to Taormina, where we’ll enjoy an evening walking tour before dinner.

DAY 6: Taormina - Free day

Enjoy a free day to explore Sicily from our base on the island Taormina. The town itself is one of Italy’s most popular summer destinations, perched on the side of a mountain and offering medieval churches, a castle and Greek amphitheater. For those looking to explore further afield, you can choose our optional excursion to Syracuse. The Sicilian town of Syracuse is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is notable for its rich Greek history, culture and amphitheatres. Here, you will have time explore the town as well as ancient Greek and Roman ruins including the Theatre of Syracuse, and the Ear of Dionysius.

DAY 7: Taormina - Catania - Agrigento

Today we’ll drive to through the heart of Sicily, along the way taking a comfort stop in Catania. With a Unesco-listed historic centre boasting many beautiful baroque buildings. This afternoon, get your cameras ready as stopping at the ‘Valle dei Templi’ (Valley of the Temples), one of the most

outstanding examples of Greater Greece art and architecture. We’ll then arrive at our accommodation in Agrigento.

DAY 8: Agrigento - Palermo

Enjoy a beautiful drive this morning as we make our way round the western tip of Sicily to the island's capital, Palermo. Founded more than 2,700 years ago by the Phoenicians, Palermo is noted for its history, culture, architecture and food. Arriving early afternoon, you’ll enjoy a walking tour to introduce you to the city’s highlights, including the San Giovanni degli Eremiti church, Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate) and the Cathedral of Palermo.

DAY 9: Palermo - Free day

Enjoy a full day to further explore Sicily’s capital. Over the centuries Palermo has been colonized by many different rulers over the centuries, including the Greeks, Romans and Normans. This melting pot has resulted in a variety of architectural styles for you to explore in the historic old town. This

evening, we’ll take an overnight ferry back to the Italian mainland. For travellers who wish to stay on in Palermo, tonight’s hotel accommodation will be included in the tour price.

DAY 10: End of tour - Naples/Rome

ITALY DELIGHTS: 12 days escorted tour from $1899 per person.. Monthly departures May to Sept 2017 09, 23 May, 06 June, 04 July, 01, 29 Aug, 26 Sept or 24 Oct 2017 Normally $3099 per person Save $1200 per person. Discover the magic of our Italy tours with DI Travel! On this Italian tour of a lifetime, you can enjoy and explore Italia… the country of love and passion. Welcome to the Italian Delights Tour. This exciting tour of Italy takes visitors on a 12-day journey that covers some of the most stunning destinations such as Rome, Venice, the picturesque Italian Lake District and the Italian Riviera. On all of our Italy tours, you have plenty of opportunities to taste the unique flavours of Italy such as classic Italian pizza, spaghetti carbonara and richly delicious risotto.

DAY 1: Rome

Welcome to Rome! If you arrive early enough, head into the city to see what Rome has to offer. An ancient city that has seen the rise and fall of entire empires, there is no shortage of historical real estate to feast your eyes on. Not to mention designer shopping and brilliant food. Meet up with your tour leader at our hotel in the afternoon, and prepare for the tour of a lifetime! Tonight, you’ll meet the rest of the tour group at our included welcome dinner.

DAY 2: Rome

Today, we’ll take a guided walking tour of the city, stopping off at the landmarks that have made Rome a perennial favourite with travellers all over the world. See Ancient Roman architecture, medieval buildings, Renaissance artworks and more remnants of Rome’s illustrious past as capital of this incredible country. Highlights today include the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona and the Roman Forum. And let’s not forget Trevi Fountain – legend has it that if you drop a coin into the

fountain, you’ll return again one day. In your free time this afternoon, why not visit the Coliseum, probably Rome's most recognisable landmark, and the centre of Roman social life. See where countless gladiators, martyrs, wild animals and other unfortunate souls did battle in the name of entertainment.

DAY 3: Pompeii - Sorrento region

Leaving Rome, we’ll head to Sorrento peninsula via Pompeii. As it’s our first day on the coach, take the time to get to know your fellow travel companions, and listen out for tips on Italy from your tour leader. On our way to the coastal region of Sorrento, you will see Mount Vesuvius and we will stop at Pompeii to explore the ruins of this ancient Roman town, destroyed in 79AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption. Preserved since ancient times under meters of ash and pumice, it offers superb insights into life (and death) in the ancient Roman Empire. As we leave Pompeii behind, you will have the option to visit the beautiful Amalfi coast, with some free time to explore the town of Amalfi. Upon arrival on the Sorrento peninsula we have a two night stay. Amongst other things, this area is famous for limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur), and this is the perfect way to finish off your meal.

DAY 4: Sorrento region - Free day DAY 5: Assisi DAY 6: Venice

Leaving the churches and basilicas behind, we head to Venice, stopping off for a comfort stop in Europe’s third-smallest state – San Marino. Claiming to be the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world, San Marino was founded by Saint Marinus on the 3rd of September 301, and is now one of the most popular day-trip destinations for visitors to the area. Situated on a hilltop, you will witness stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic sea. You will have ample time to explore and to shop. Once we’ve had a look around, we’re off to the canals of Venice! Here we’ll take an orientation walking tour with your DI Travel tour leader, including the Rialto Bridge and St Marks Square. Sample some of the city’s culinary delights and marvel at this incredible city – which features more artistic masterpieces per square kilometre than any other place on earth!

DAY 7: Venice - Free day

Take the time to explore today on your free day in Venice. Get a classic Venetian view from the famous Rialto Bridge, board a gondola and see Venice the way it should be seen, try Venetian cuisine, visit museums and art galleries and get the full Venetian experience! Alternatively you can simply relax and soak up the sun on the sandy beaches at Jesolo or Lido. There’s also St Marks Square, The Bridge of Sighs and the Doge’s Palace to see – plus any number of culinary delights to sample, too!

DAY 8: Italian Lakes

First up today, we’ll stop off in ‘fair Verona’ to catch a glimpse of Juliet’s balcony, where Romeo supposedly wooed Juliet in Shakespeare’s classic ‘Romeo & Juliet.’ Beset by family feuds, drama and romance since its founding in Roman times, Verona has its share of stories to tell. Look out for the 2000 year old arena and the ancient city gates. Later, we head to the Italian Lakes – and you’ll find out just why famous writers like DH Lawrence and Hemingway were so inspired by this region of Italy. Peek at palatial lakeside villas, and revel in the pleasant mix of luxury and rural charm.

DAY 9: Cinque Terre

Leaving the beautiful Italian Lakes, we head to the Cinque Terre region. Made up of five picturesque Italian towns, Cinque Terre features hiking routes and trains running regularly along the coastline between the towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. With cars and motorcycles banned from the towns, you’ll have a wonderful time exploring the towns by train or by foot. Each town has it's own unique charm - we are certain you will fall in love with each and every one! As you explore, why not taste local wines along with local produce such as pesto, freshly-caught fish and sweet lemons? Unforgettable!

DAY 10: Tuscany

On our way to Florence, we stop off at the famous town of Pisa to get a few shots of its distinctive Leaning Tower. Now over 800 years old, it’s a classic sight in Italy and well worth a visit. Bragging rights are all yours! On arrival in Florence, we take a guided walking tour of the city, exploring many of the most famous sites and gaining local insight from our guide. Sights to see in Florence include Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Florence Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Croce and of course

Michelangelo’s David. A cultural and political focal point during the Renaissance, Florence is endowed with a huge variety of important buildings and famous artworks. After exploring, it’s off to our accommodation in the Tuscan hills, in the ancient spa town of Montecatini Terme. Later, you are free to search for that perfect restaurant or ask your tour leader for recommendations.

DAY 11: Siena - Rome

Today, we enjoy a Tuscan highlights driving tour, winding our way through one of the world’s most picturesque countryside landscapes. We also stop off in the medieval town of San Gimignano with its amazing towers, to sample local wines and enjoy Antipasto (a selection of cheese, cured meats, bread and olives). This afternoon, we stop at the town of UNESCO World Heritage town of Siena – featuring largely gothic artistic remnants, as opposed to the Renaissance flourishes of Florence, for a true Tuscan experience. We then return home to Rome to round things off with a celebratory final dinner.

DAY 12: Rome

After breakfast, we say goodbye to our travel companions and depart for home. We hope you have enjoyed your 12 day Italian tour. Arrivederci, Italia!

We include centrally located hotels, five star air conditioned coach travel, many meals and English speaking tours guide, local guides in each city and all touring. Booking Destinations International. Phone1300 813391. www.ditravel.com.au