Bikes, Boats & Baguettes

Explore the wonders of Europe during a 12-night cruise that departs from Amsterdam. Sip some of the world’s finest wines in Bordeaux. Stop by the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Visit the Tower of Hercules lighthouse in La Coruña and taste sweet port wine in Porto. Ride an antique trolley around the picturesque streets of Lisbon and feast on Andalusian cuisine in Cadiz. Take in the stunning view of the great Rock of Gibraltar and relax on one of Cartagena’s scenic beaches before ending your journey in the alluring city of Rome.
Acquaint yourself with Italy's 'Eternal City' of Rome and learn about the catastrophic fate of Pompeii. Soak up the sunshine in the coastal town of Sorrento and explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast. This trip offers the chance to delve into history, culture and cuisine and to live a little of la dolce vita.

Your fly, tour and cruise package includes:

• Flight to Amsterdam, returning from Naples
• 3 nights accommodation in Amsterdam
• Volendam, Marken and Windmills Tour
• 12 night Netherlands, Spain & France cruise onboard Celebrity Apex, Amsterdam to Rome
• All onboard meals in complimentary dining venues & non-alcoholic beverages
• A wide range of onboard activities & entertainment
• Port charges & fees on your cruises
• 2 nights accommodation in Rome including breakfast
• 7 night Rome to Amalfi guided holiday by Intrepid
• Includes 7 nights accommodation, 5 breakfasts & a Tour Director
• 1 night accommodation in Naples
• Private transfers throughout

***Rate is based on twin share for travel 7 September to 3 October 2022.***

 Netherlands, Spain & France Cruise

Rome to Amalfi Tour
25SEP-2OCT22

Day 1: Rome
Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Crowded with ancient ruins and religious monuments, Rome still pulses to the beat of modern life and is packed with designer shops, restaurants, cafes and exciting nightlife. There are no activities planned before the group meeting at 6pm tonight, so you can arrive any time before then. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. There are so many things to do in Rome – the Colosseum, the Forum, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti, Piazza Venezia, the Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica – so arriving early is recommended. Don’t forget to do as the Romans do and sip an espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes and sample the many flavours of gelato that colour the city, best done in the bohemian neighbourhood of Trastevere. For those captivated by the 'Eternal City', throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to Rome.
Accommodation: Hotel

Optional Activities:
Rome - Pantheon One Hour Guided Tour Urban Adventure - EUR35
Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo - EUR14
Rome - Christian Catacombs - EUR8
Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill - EUR16
Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House - EUR6
Vatican City - Vatican Museum - EUR17
Rome - Galleria Borghese - EUR15
Rome - Pantheon - EUR2
Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator - EUR10
Rome - Venezia Palace - EUR12

Day 2: Naples to Pompeii
Travel by train to Naples, a raucous city that overflows with passion, tradition and gastronomy. Naples was carved out by many empires of the past and by merchants and pirates from across the world: Romans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Venetians, Spaniards, Normans and Africans. Its evocative, historical old centre is a World Heritage-listed area and the famous Spanish Quarter is still one of the most densely populated residential areas in Europe. Naples is the birthplace of the pizza, so why not head to one of the many pizzerias and taste what's truly some of the best that Italy has to offer. Head underground to see ancient Napoli Sotterranea, the famous underground city. Later in the afternoon, board a train to the time capsule of Pompeii, in the shadow of Mt Vesuvius (approximately 1 hour). Your accommodation is perfectly located right near the entrance to the archaeological excavation site.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Included Activities:
Naples - Napoli Sotterranea Underground City

Optional Activities:
Naples - Archaeological Museum - EUR15
Naples - Chapel of San Severo - EUR10
Naples - Duomo – Free
Naples - St Claire's Church and Cloister - EUR6

Day 3: Pompeii
The small picturesque town of 'modern' Pompeii has a wonderful old town square – the perfect place to while away some time with the locals, drinking true Italian coffee and watching the world go by. Most of today though will be spent exploring the ruins of ancient Pompeii on a guided tour. Until 26 August, 79 AD, Pompeii was a thriving Roman trading centre, where ordinary people went about their everyday business, but it was frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted, killing 2,000 people and their homes under a layer of ash. The city was never rebuilt and largely disappeared from people’s minds until the 18th century, when the ruins were re-discovered. Now you can take an unparalleled look back into the lives of ancient Romans and discover how they lived, worked and interacted 2,000 years ago. The finely preserved ruins include villas, temples, theatres and bustling markets. Walk along the chariot-marked streets, visit the magnificent amphitheatre and the ‘Villa of Mysteries’. You can also visit the Roman Forum and basilica, temples, public baths, and the tiny Odeon created for music recitals. The rest of the day is free, but if the ruins piqued your interest, head to nearby Herculaneum, which also holds a wealth of fossilised archaeological finds.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Included Activities:
Pompeii - Archaeological Site
Pompeii - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:
Pompeii - Herculaneum Ruins - EUR13
Pompeii - Sanctuary of St Mary of the Rosary - Free

Day 4: Mt Vesuvius to Sorrento
This morning take a bus up the mighty Mt Vesuvius, where you’ll meet a local volcanology guide. Ascend to the summit of Mt Vesuvius for staggering 360 degree views over the Bay of Naples and into the steaming crater. Although Mt Vesuvius is still considered to be an active volcano, the last eruption was in 1944 and there's no sign of lava. See first-hand the awesome power of the volcano that engulfed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79AD. In the afternoon, travel by private vehicle to the picturesque resort town of Sorrento (approximately 1 hour). People have been coming to the peninsula and islands of the Sorrento region for at least 2,000 years, and set invitingly atop dramatic cliffs over sparkling, blue waters, it's easy to see why. There are many options in this small seaside town with its fine piazzas, maze of old streets, sidewalk cafes and glamorous shops. The area is also famous for its lemon groves, producing the famous limoncello liqueur. In the evening head out to try some of the best limoncello on offer in Sorrento.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Included Activities:
Mt Vesuvius - Crater Rim Walk & Summit Climb
Sorrento - Limoncello Tasting

Day 5: Sorrento
You have a free day to explore this delightful area and the museums, galleries and piazzas of Sorrento. Perhaps stroll along the marina or cool off in the waters of the local small beaches. They’re not big on sandy beaches here, so swimming Sorrento-style is via wooden or stone bathing platforms beneath the cliffs. Taking a trip to Capri is also a great option, with a hydrofoil taking you across to the island that was once home to the magnificent holiday palaces of the Roman emperors. Capri’s dramatic rocky coastline is pierced by natural grottoes, while in the interior, narrow roads wind through fragrant citrus groves, past villages of flat-roofed white cubist-looking houses with flower-filled gardens, and manicured towns which offer swanky hotels and chic cafes. Here you can take a boat trip to the fairy-tale Blue Grotto (La Grotta Azzurra), where the water shines with an extraordinary blue translucence, a result of refraction of the sunlight outside. Your leader will be of assistance and will have plenty of suggestions of what to do and see today. End the day a very Italian way with a demonstration of Gelato making.
Accommodation: Hotel

Included Activities:
Sorrento - Gelato Making Demonstration

Optional Activities:
Capri - Hydrofoil Sorrento to Capri - EUR44

Day 6: Amalfi
Arrive on the Amalfi Coast after a short journey by private vehicle (approximately 2 hours). The Amalfi peninsula is a land of rocky coasts, cliff-top vistas, azure seas, tiered lemon groves, whitewashed villages clinging to steep cliffs, and bright blue skies. If you're after a relaxing walk with a few cultural highlights, stroll from one side of Amalfi town to the other and pay a visit to the Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and the Chiostro del Paradiso. If you’re after something more active, perhaps embark on a walk through the Valley of Mills where for centuries paper mills were in operation. Alternatively catch a bus up the Valley of Dragons to reach pretty Ravello. The French novelist André Gide once described this town as being ‘closer to the sky than the seashore’. For centuries, its lofty position and sunny, dry climate has made it an appealing place for writers, artists, musicians and travellers. Ravello also boasts two magnificent villas – the superb 11th Century Villa Rufolo which was once the home of Wagner, and Villa Cimbrone, a sumptuous 19th Century mansion with fabulous gardens and unequalled views over the Gulf of Salerno. Otherwise just laze around on the beaches and in the piazza, gazing back up at the amazingly picturesque part of the world.
Accommodation: Hotel

Optional Activities:
Amalfi - Chiostro del Paradiso - EUR3
Amalfi - Valley of the Mills Hike – Free
Amalfi - Ravello & Valley of the Dragons – Free
Amalfi - Cattedrale S.Andrea - Free

Day 7: Positano to Amalfi
Your leader will take you for a half-day hike along the narrow trail of the famous Sentiero Degli Dei (the Walk of the Gods) which, until quite recently, was followed by mules and donkeys as they traversed the dramatic landscape. This path winds its way through unique scenery and boasts unrivalled views along the coast. Walk through forests and fields of wildflowers, olive groves and vineyards, past ancient stone huts and beside sheer walls of granite. Glimpse local farmers tending their crops by hoe and elbow grease, herds of goats feeding beside the trail beside their shepherds, and teams of workmen commuting by mule. The trail ends in picturesque Positano where there will be ample time to explore and maybe take a dip in the sea. Return to Amalfi by ferry which is the perfect way to see the coast from a different perspective. With tonight your last night as a group, it’s a good idea to gather your fellow travellers together and head out for a feast to celebrate the end of this Italian adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Included Activities:
Amalfi - Walk of the Gods Hike (Sentiero degli Dei)
Amalfi - Coastal Ferry Cruise Positano to Amalfi

Special Information
Today's walking time: 4-5 hours / 9-10 km. Please note that the Pathway of the Gods is steep in places and has many stairs (the descent to Positano has more than 1,500 steps), and can be challenging. But the views are breath-taking and repay you for the effort! A certain level of fitness is required to complete this hike. Your leader will be able to suggest alternative activities should you wish to opt out.

Day 8: Amalfi
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to do along the Amalfi Coast you may want to consider to extend your stay here. We are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.
Meals: Breakfast

Volendam, Marken and Windmills Tour
Leave the bustling city of Amsterdam behind as you escape to the country where you will visit quaint fishing villages and witness traditional craftsmen at work. Enjoy the tranquillity of the area and immerse yourself in the old way of life as you admire the colourful Dutch windmills. The first stop is Zaanse Schans, a traditional village renowned for its many windmills dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. With over ten windmills lining the banks of the Zaan River, explore this incredible open-air museum or with your free time, why not stop to visit some of the windmills. Zaanse Schans is truly one of the best places to see windmills in Holland! The next stop is the picturesque fishing village of Volendam. Visit the Cheese Factory to learn more about how the Dutch make cheese as well as delight your taste buds as you try their incredible cheese. What’s more, step back in time to the 19th century with a visit to Woltjes Backerij, an authentic stroopwafel bakery. See how people lived as well as find out how these Dutch delicacies are made! Afterwards, enjoy some free time to discover Volendam at your own leisure. Continue as you head towards the ancient town of Edam, that dates back to the 12th century. World-famous for its iconic red cheese balls, this picturesque village has been exporting its cheese to every corner of the world for centuries. Take a stroll along the cobbled streets and be captivated by its beautiful buildings, picturesque squares and peaceful canals. Only if you have selected the option “All-in Tour”, enjoy a 30-minute scenic boat tour across the Ijsselmeer to Marken. Upon arrival, take a stroll amongst the beautiful wooden-clad houses. Complete the tour with a visit to a traditional Marker house and watch how traditional clogs are made; according to a 100-year-old tradition with steam-powered tools. Whilst here, why not try on a pair and see how surprisingly comfortable they are!

Prices listed are per person in Australian/New Zealand Dollars, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking and shown on the lowest Inside category available at the time. Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 18 May 2022 and can be withdrawn without notice. Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes unless otherwise stated.  Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included.  Airfares are based on economy class flights from Sydney and are subject to the carriers’ flight schedules and conditions, please call us for prices from other cities. Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.