Holiday Itinerary Ideas: Rome and Naples
There are few destinations that are as perfect for the holidays as Rome and Naples. For Catholics, the Vatican is the most holy site in the world. Over the Christmas holidays, it is a true site to see. For those who follow different creeds, it’s still a marvel and these southern Italian cities truly dress up in their holiday best for the season. Rome and Naples are perfect for a tailor made holiday itinerary in Italy!
This month, we will share some holiday itinerary ideas for tailor made trips to some of our favorite cities in the winter. It’s never too late – or early – to start planning. As always, we tailor all of our trips to your travel wishes. These are some ideas for your next vacation in Rome and Naples! If there is anything you want to add or change, we are always here to help your travel dreams come true.
Day 1: Welcome to Rome
You will be greeted at the Rome train station by your private driver. He/she will then accompany you to your gorgeous accommodations in the historical center. We have an extensive portfolio of accommodations in Italy’s capital. Luxurious 5-star, family run hotel by the spanish steps? Cozy comfort steps from the Pantheon? We have an option to match your travel style!
After some time to settle in, your private guide will meet you for our historic center food lovers tour. She’ll join you in a neighborhood passeggiata. You’ll be introduced to an area of Rome located within the Piazza Navona, Pantheon and Campo de’ Fiori. Rome is decorated in its holiday best for the season!
During the walk guests taste delectable neighborhood specialties, savoring the local lifestyle, and learning about the area’s food traditions and trends. Over the holiday season, this tour is even more special. You’ll be able to taste and see some of the special treats that are only available this time of year!
Day 2: The incredible Vatican
Today we will see one of the most breathtaking holiday sights in the world. Our Private “Before Hours” Morning Vatican Tour is a once in a lifetime experience. This incredible opportunity offers a more personal Vatican experience, and the ability to avoid the noisy crowds. You will visit the Sistine Chapel at a more solitary, reflective hour. With our expert guide, you’ll discover masterpieces of the Renaissance as well as ancient statues from the Vatican collections. The tour will conclude in St Peter’s Basilica to admire Michelangelo’s Pietà. Your private guide will also give you access to the Basilica straight from the museums, avoiding the sometimes endless lines.
Day 3: Art and Ancient Rome
In the morning you will meet your guide for our Private Tour through Ancient Rome with VIP access to the Coliseum Underground. Learn about its tragedies and love for entertainment. Also, discover some of its famous citizens, such as Julius Caesar, Emperors Augustus, and Nero. Visit Capitoline Hill, the Roman Forum, finishing off with the spectacular Coliseum.
Afterwards, in the afternoon, lose yourself within one of Europe’s most extraordinary museums, the Borghese Gallery. Our private tour is the perfect way to see the museum. It is home to glorious works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and other highly-regarded artists in Italian history. We consider it is an astounding showcase of Italian art and antiquity. Your art historian will make the artists and statues come alive in this short but captivating tour.
Day 4: Welcome to Naples
Your private driver will pick you up at your hotel this morning and bring you to your next stop, Naples!
But first, you will enjoy a wonderful 2-hour walk through the Ruins of Pompeii with a private expert guide. This Roman port city was destroyed by the Vesuvio in ’79 a.d. The visit to the ruins starts from Porta Marina, the main entrance, which will bring you a Via Marina, an excellent sample of Roman architecture, full of fountains, buildings, and private homes. From here you can easily reach the major buildings and monuments of this incredible archeological site.
After your tour, your driver will continue on to your hotel in the historical city center!
You cannot miss San Gregorio Armeno. The well-known street of the old town of the city, is the best place to visit in Naples at Christmas.
The nativity is a traditional representation of Jesus born place. Following the tradition, every family in Naples has one of it in their own house. San Gregorio Armeno is where you go to find unique nativity pieces handmade by local artisans.
Day 5: Explore the city through its gastronomy
A must for anyone staying in bella Napoli is our Private Food & History Tour of Naples. Your local guide will meet you at your hotel. You have the unique opportunity to explore Neapolitan street food in the heart of the “vertical city”. The city’s intriguing past comes to light in a juxtaposition of its history, art, magnificent architecture, modern design, and delicious food.
Naples is a very Catholic city, and takes the holiday season very seriously. There are amazing amount of foods and treats you eat this time of year. Like Rome, your food tour over the holiday season is certainly one you won’t forget!
Day 6: Naples holiday meal with a local
Uncover the secrets of Italian family recipes on your travels! Today with our local cooking class, you will learn the best recipes for the season. Immerse yourself in a private cooking class at your guide’s home in the center of Naples. You will learn the secrets of the most famous holiday dishes of regional cuisine, passed down in your guide’s family for generations. After, you will taste the fruit of your labor accompanied by local wines. These are great memories that you can recreate at home for your friends and family!
Day 7: Arrivederci, Italia
This morning your private driver will bring you back to the airport for your flight home. If you are not yet ready to go home, we can add several options to your holiday Italy tour. A few days in the “heel of Italy”, otherwise known as Puglia? Or a visit to Florence and its holiday markets? A gondola ride with Santa Claus through the enchanting canals of Venice? The choice is yours and we would be happy to design your trip as you wish!
Holiday wanderlust on the Mediterranean
We hope that these itinerary ideas provided some travel inspiration for a holiday trip to Rome and Naples. Please check out our website or contact us directly for other ideas in these countries and also our other destinations.
As always, its our mission and promise to make your Mediterranean travel dreams come true!
