19 day Backroads of Southern France and Italy

Day 1 - DEPART HOME/DUBAI

This evening, we depart for our Emirates flight bound for Dubai. As invite you to sit back and relax.

Included Meals - As per fight

Day 2 - DUBAI/NICE/MONTE CARLO

A short transit in Dubai airport before we reboard another Emirates flight for Nice. Welcome to France! Our group will be greeted by your trusty tour manager for airport pickup and transfer to lunch. After, enjoy a scenic tour of Nice, celebrated for its stunning Mediterranean coastline and vibrant old town. This will be followed by a visit to Eze Village, famous for its perfume factory, and a final exploration of the luxurious Monte Carlo region, known for its opulent casino and breathtaking views. Overnight in Monte Carlo.

Accommodation - Novotel Monte Carlo or similar

Included Meals -As per flight / Dinner

Day 3 - MONTE CARLO/CANNES/MARSEILLE

After breakfast, proceed to Le Rocher - the Rock of Monaco, overlooking the sea and harbor. There, we'll continue to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate the final resting place of Monaco Princes and “Princess Grace de Monaco” . Next, see The Justice Palace built in solid tufa. We end our tour in the famous Prince’s Palace . If timing is right, you’ll also witness the changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily in the morning in front of the Palace. Next, we'll head to Cannes for a city tour, showcasing the iconic La Croisette promenade along the Mediterranean Sea, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès—the famed venue for the Cannes Film Festival—and a stroll through Le Suquet, the charming Old Town. Following this enriching exploration, we will continue our journey to Marseille for an overnight stay.

Accommodation - AC Hotel by Marriott Marseille Velodrome or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4 - MARSEILLE/AVIGNON

This morning, we will go on a guided tour of Marseille, starting our walking adventure in the charming Le Panier district near the Vieux Port and the Mediterranean Sea. As we stroll down Cannebière street, we'll pass by an array of galleries, workshops, boutiques, cafés, bistros, and restaurants, immersing ourselves in the local culture. Our exploration will continue to Le Pharo, where we will admire the grand Palais du Pharo, a magnificent palace constructed in themid-19th century, as well as the stunning Roman architecture of the Abbaye Saint-Victor. We then drive to Avignon's historic centre and here we explore its charming cobblestone streets and hidden alleyways. You'll see the majestic Rocher des Doms, home to the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes. After the tour, enjoy some free time to browse the numerous shops and boutiques for souvenirs. Overnight in Avignon.

Accommodation - Novotel Avignon Centre or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5 - AVIGNON/PONT DU GARD/CARCASSONNE

Your journey this morning begins at the breathtaking Pont du Gard, an impressive aqueduct bridge featuring three well-preserved arched tiers built by 1st-century Romans. From there, you'll continue to Carcassonne, where you'll meet your guide for a tour of the Medieval City’s fortifications. This guided experience includes access to the count's castle, the Bailey, and the stunning Basilica of Saint-Nazaire.

Accommodation - Tribe Hotel Carcassonne or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 6 - CARCASSONNE/CAGLIARI (FLIGHT)

This morning we bid goodbye to charming Carcassonne and make our way to the airport for our short flight to Cagliari - the capital of Sardinia, which boasts a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal views, with its charming old town, Castello, perched on a hill overlooking the city. After arriving, we transfer to our hotel for check in and free time until dinner.

Accommodation - UNA hotels hotel Cagliari or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Own Lunch / Dinner

Day 7 - CAGLIARI

Today after breakfast, meet our local guide at the hotel for a guided tour through the narrow streets of the historic Castello district. During the tour, you'll explore the Medieval Towers, Saint Remy Bastion, the Royal Palace, the Cathedral, and Piazza Indipendenza. Along the way, enjoy photo opportunities at stunning panoramic viewpoints, including Poetto Beach, the Monte Urpinu lookout, and the Molentargius Park, where you may spot flamingos. Then a bit of free time at leisure before dinner.

Accommodation - UNA hotels hotel Cagliari or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 8 - CAGLIARI/PALMERMO (OVERNIGHT CRUISE)

This morning, we will transfer to the Villanova district, one of Cagliari's four historical areas, where you'll meet your guide for a walking tour of its charming streets. After exploring the district, we'll head to the port of Cagliari to board our overnight ferry, departing in the afternoon for Palermo, a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious Sicilian cuisine.

Accommodation - Overnight Cruise

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 9 - PALERMO/SAVOCA/TAORMINA

Enjoy breakfast on board the overnight ferry before arriving in Palermo. We’ll then drive to Savoca, a picturesque medieval village known as a key filming location for "The Godfather." Meet your guide to explore iconic scenes, including a visit to Bar Vitelli, showcasing local artisans' tools and photographs. After a stroll along the main street with views of Santa Lucia and San Michele churches, we'll have lunch and continue to Taormina. Here, you’ll visit the Greek Theatre, offering stunning panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna, and walk along Corso Umberto to see the Cathedral and enjoy breathtaking views of Capo Taormina bay. Overnight in Taormina.

Accommodation - Hotel Ariston or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 10 - TAORMINA/CATANIA/BARI (FLIGHT)

After breakfast we drive to Catania for a brief city tour. Some photo stops may include the stunning Catania Cathedral, Elephant Fountain and the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, one of the largest in Sicily. Following the tour, we’ll head to Catania Airport for a direct flight to Bari, a charming coastal city known for its historic old town and vibrant culture. After arriving, you will spend the night in Bari.

Accommodation - UNA Hotel Regina or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 11 - BARI/MONOPOLI/OSTUNI

This morning, our local guide will take us on a tour of Bari, where you’ll explore the Swabian Castle, a prime example of Romanesque architecture, and the Basilica of San Nicola, a pilgrimage site for the city’s patron saint surrounded by quaint shops and bakeries. Afterward, transfer to Monopoli to meet another local guide for a one-hour tour. Stroll along the old port of the Adriatic Sea, admire the Palazzo Martinelli, and visit the Castle of Carlo V to learn about its history. Enjoy photo opportunities at the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, then continue your journey to Ostuni, the "White City."

Accommodation - Hotel Monte Sarago or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 12 - OSTUNI/ALBEROBELLO

Today, we tour Ostuni in the morning. We begin at Piazza della Libertà and the Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. Stroll along the ancient walls for panoramic views of the countryside, including the sea and olive groves. Enjoy free time to explore the winding streets, admire whitewashed buildings, and discover hidden gems in the old town. Next, head to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its charming conical-roofed Trulli houses, made from local white limestone. These whimsical structures create a fairytale ambiance in the historic centre. Finally, visit the Belvedere Trulli lookout at Piazza del Popolo for stunning views over Alberobello and its iconic Trulli.

Accommodation - Grand Hotel Olimpo or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 13 - ALBEROBELLO/MATERA

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Matera, where you will meet your local guide for a walking tour of the Sassi of Matera. This extraordinary area features a series of man-made caves, churches, monasteries, and houses carved from limestone, originally built for impoverished farmers. With over a thousand cave dwellings, known as "sassi," this remarkable settlement boasts one of Europe’s most unique landscapes. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and named the European Capital of Culture for 2019, Matera offers a rich historical experience. During the tour, you'll explore an ancient complex that includes two rock churches, a monastery, and a cellar, all nestled within the caves. Overnight in Matera.

Accommodation - UNA Hotel La Martella or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 14 - MATERA/SORRENTO

We will drive from Matera to Sorrento, a distance of approximately 156 km away. Sorrento, perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, is known for its stunning views, vibrant atmosphere, and citrus groves. Once you arrive, you’ll have free leisure time to explore the charming streets, visit the bustling Piazza Tasso, and wander through the lively marketplace. Enjoy the local shops, delightful cafes, and breathtaking coastal scenery. After a day of exploration, you will spend the night in Sorrento, soaking in the captivating ambiance of this beautiful town.

Accommodation - Towers Hotel Stabiae Sorrento Coast or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 15 - SORRENTO/AMALFI/POSITANO/SALERNO

The highlight of today is to experience a scenic drive along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, taking in the enchanting views of this spectacular coastline. Stop in Amalfi and Positano, where you can explore two of the most beautiful villages in the region. After a day of sightseeing and soaking in the charm of these coastal gems, you will spend the night in Salerno, resting in anticipation of more adventures to come.

Accommodation - San Severino Park Hotel & Spa or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 16 - SALERNO/NAPLES

After breakfast, you'll visit the historical centre of Salerno, including its stunning cathedral. Next, we'll travel to Pompeii to explore the ancient ruins, with entrance included. Following the visit, we'll transfer to Naples for a city orientation. You'll have the opportunity to admire iconic sights such as the majestic Castel Nuovo with its Triumphal Arch, the renowned San Carlo Theatre, the Royal Palace of Naples, Galleria Umberto, and the expansive Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest semicircular square in the city. After dinner we spend the night in Naples as well.

Accommodation - Radisson Hotel Naples Nola or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 17 - NAPLES

You'll be transferred to Caserta for a guided tour of the stunning Royal Palace and its expansive park, with entrance included. In the afternoon, you'll head to the Factory Outlet for a shopping spree, a fantastic destination to find exclusive brands at prices that won’t break the bank! Back to Naples in the evening for our final group dinner together.

Accommodation - Radisson Hotel Naples Nola or similar

Included Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 18 - NAPLES/DUBAI

A bit of free time in the morning after breakfast and then it is off to Naples airport for our flight to Dubai with Fly Dubai. Once you have boarded, sit back and reminisce of the fond memories you have created on this holiday and not long, you’ll arrive into Dubai late evening. Due to the single flight out of Naples to Dubai, please note there is around 6 hour stop over in Dubai airport before our connecting flight home.

Accommodation - N/A

Included Meals - Breakfast / As per flight

Day 19 - DUBAI/HOME

Your flight arrives back home late this evening and we hope you all had an enjoyable holiday. Thank you very much from all of us at Friendly Travel and we look forward to seeing you again!

Included Meals - As per flight