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    15 Days Italy & Venetian River Cruise package from $7,418pp, $4,599pp after member benefits.

    • Specially-selected accommodation in Rome, Florence, and Venice.
    • Highlights and food tours in Rome
    • Frecciarossa fast rail travel
    • Visit Orvieto and Assisi in Umbria
    • Ultimate 7 day Venetian River Cruise with Venice
    • Optional Hanoi, Vietnam stop over package

    Save up to 38% off full retail value. Land-only and flight-inclusive options available.

    Romance in Venice
    Romance in Venice

    FULL RETAIL VALUE: $6,765pp. YOU PAY FROM $4,599, SAVE UP TO $2,166pp.

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Trip Highlights

    Your Italian journey will be a blend of history, cuisine, and scenic wonders, exploring Rome's iconic landmarks, Florence's regional treasures, and Venice's history and ambience. Then, embark on a seven-day very special Venetian River Cruise, sailing through charming villages and historical landmarks, immersing yourself in the beauty of Italy from a unique perspective.

    Enjoy these highlights*:

    • Enjoy specially selected accommodation in Rome, Florence, and Venice. 
    • Discover culinary delights on a Roman food tour 
    • Be enthralled by St Peters Basilica and the Sistine Chapel
    • Travel easy on Frecciarossa fast rail travel
    • Visit Orvieto and Assisi in Umbria
    • Relax and be spoiled on the ultimate 7 day Venetian River Cruise with Venice
    • Try the optional Hanoi, Vietnam stop over package

    * Package price varies according to season and departure city and final travel plan inclusions.

    Global Escapes Travel

    In the style of most Global Escapes Independent Traveler itineraries, this is a perfect blend of self-guided adventure and forward-planning to ensure that the main elements are organised in advance allowing for plenty of time to relax and take in each place you visit.

    Package Pricing

    World-wide Savings Guarantee

    Saving Guarantee

    Bring us a competitor quote and let us go to work for you.

    We guarantee to beat any competitor accommodation-only quote or travel package price and/or value by a minimum of 15%. Conditions.

    Upload Competitor Quote

    Saving Guarantee

    World-wide savings Guarantee

    We guarantee to beat any competitor accommodation-only quote or travel package price or value by a minimum of 15% ("price-beat") on the following conditions:

    Note: By requesting a price-beat you are under no obligation to place a booking with us or proceed with the final travel package as the case may be. A non-refundable deposit is required in the case of a tour/travel package price-beat (see below).

    Terms & Conditions

    The following terms and conditions apply to travel plans and accommodation quotes requested from and supplied by Travel Directions Pty. Ltd. trading as Global Escapes Travel, Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club (Australian Escapes) and Kiwi Escapes (the company) and are subject to change without notice. These conditions are to be read in conjunction with our standard booking conditions and conditions applicable to Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club membership as defined in website FAQs.

    1. ACCOMMODATION-ONLY

    There are two main scenarios:

    (1) You request a price-beat on a specific property. Our objective is to provide at least 15% more total value or a price that is 15% lower than a competitor quote supplied to us for the same accommodation property, on the same conditions and with the same inclusions, provided we have access to be able to book the accommodation through our normal supplier channels.

    If we do not have access to member rates that property we will offer an alternative that is of the same or higher standard, as per our hotel rating system and that meets the stated requirements, subject to availability, and subject to the following:

    1. Any price supplied is an estimate only and is subject to our standard booking conditions.
    2. The price beat and inclusion details will be confirmed in a travel plan.

    (2) We propose a property with member pricing: If the "you pay" price we submit is already discounted using GCash travel credits and the lowest available price at the time it was submitted, it does not qualify. Otherwise our objective is to provide at least 15% more total value or a price that is 15% lower than a competitor quote supplied to us for the same accommodation property, on the same conditions and with the same inclusions.

    A price-beat will be deemed successful and this guarantee is therefore met when the applicable objective is achieved.

    2. TRAVEL & TOUR PACKAGES

    Inclusions in travel and tour packages assembled by competitor travel agents, tour companies, wholesalers, online travel promoters will all be different in some way. Packages will typically vary by inclusions, validity, suppliers, component type, standard, terms and conditions, travel date, etc ("package components").

    Our objective in this type of price-beat situation is to assemble a package containing similar and/or higher value package components to that which you present to us. We guarantee to offer at least 15% more total value (through added value) or a price that is 15% lower than the competitor quote ("successful price-beat") subject to the following:

    1. Any package components that are exclusive to specific suppliers to which we do not have access will not be included.
    2. Alternative supplier products of a substantially similar type and standard may be included.
    3. Accommodation may be in a different but similar location.
    4. The price-beat may be based on alternative travel and departure dates.
    5. This guarantee does not apply to flight-only or cruise-only bookings. The booking type must qualify for Getaway Cash travel credits usage (refer to website FAQs).
    6. Added value may include travel services supplied by the company.
    7. Added value may be treated as a price deduction for the purposes of the price-beat.
    8. Any price supplied is an estimate only.
    9. The price beat and inclusion details will be confirmed in a travel plan.

    A price-beat will be deemed successful and this guarantee is therefore met when the above objective is achieved.

    3. GENERAL CONDITIONS

    The price-beat must be requested before you place a booking with any other travel agent, online booking agent or property direct in relation to the subject accommodation or package.

    A price-beat may be requested by providing clear, written evidence of the competitor quote as well as your requirements to an employee of the company who performs a reservations or travel consultant role ("company contact") as follows:

    1. Evidence regarding an accommodation-only price-beat may be supplied by phone or email stating the name of the property and room type, where you saw the price (on what website, in what publication etc.)
    2. Evidence regarding a tour or travel package must be provided to us in the form of a written quotation by the competitor travel agent, sent/forwarded via email to your company contact, or to admin@australianescapes.com.au. Enter your name as the email subject line. Alternatively, upload the quote (PDF or Word doc) via the Competitor Price Beater page. It must be a formal quotation, not an advertisement or website page.
    3. Your exact booking requirements including travel/booking date range(s), number and age of travellers and special requirements if any.
    4. The price-beat request and any subsequent travel plan and/or booking is subject to our standard booking conditions.

    A competitor quote presented under this guarantee must be genuine (not contrived) and must be a final, fixed price, backed by verifiable evidence. A competitor quote that we determine is not genuine or final is excluded. The requested date range(s) for travel/tour commencement as well as for individual package components must be realistic and flexible.

    5. TRAVEL/TOUR PACKAGE DEPOSIT GUARANTEE

    This condition applies to travel/tour packages only. We require up to $900 deposit per person (amount depending on package complexity) as a guarantee that you will proceed with the travel plan after we are successful with the price/value beat. This requirement exists because of the amount of travel consultant time required to price according to a competitor quote.

    1. The deposit amount will be deducted from the price if you proceed.
    2. The deposit amount will be refunded in the event that the proposed travel dates are not within the requested date range(s).
    3. Subject to 5.2, if you do not proceed, the deposit amount will be forfeited.

    5. MEMBERSHIP TO BE CURRENT

    Your Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club membership must be Gold level or above and active and paid up at the time of requesting the price beat.

    FULL RETAIL VALUE

    $6,765pp

    SAVINGS APPLIED

    -$2,166

    YOU PAY FROM*

    $4,599

    SAVING OFF FULL RETAIL VALUE (UP TO): 32%

    Discover the Travel Club Advantage

    Australian Escapes has been saving members money on their holidays now for over 20 years and we can do the same for you. You can start today for FREE!

    • Group buying power

    • Free travel planning services and advice; saves you time and money

    • The experience to help you avoid common and costly travel mistakes

    • Guaranteed savings and value; put us to the test

    • Exclusive travel benefits and free member services

    • No risk free trial, cancel anytime, invest a few dollars to save potentially $'000's.

    Quick Guide | Travel Club Free Trial

    Not yet a member? Submit a booking enquiry and we'll automatically register you for a 90-day free trial account. No obligation to book a trip or to remain as a member. There are no scams and no catches. This is a genuine travel club and you'll quicky discover how professional we are.

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. The final price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available HERE...

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    Members get the benefit of our expertise and low prices. We work for you so you don't have to try and learn how to be a travel expert overnight. You avoid costly mistakes and get much better value. READ MORE... Submit a booking enquiry to get a free 3-month, Travel Club Trial account.

    Inclusions

    "There are river cruise and then there are Italian river cruises. Unveil the magic of Italy and Venice on our very special Venetian river cruise package, offering an unforgettable journey through picturesque coastlines and charming towns."

    We've covered just about everything you'll need for a great travel experience but this travel package is 100% flexible. We'll tailor it for you, using your membership to get the best total value possible. You can add days, places, and inclusions to suit.

    This is a first-class travel itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Package inclusions:

    • Private car transfer from Rome airport to central Rome
    • 3 nights’ central accommodation in Rome
    • Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St.Peter’s Basicilica tour with skip-the-line access
    • Food tour in Rome
    • Train service to Florence
    • 3 nights’ accommodation in central Florence
    • Assisi and Orvieto tour from Florence
    • Train service to Venice
    • 1 night accommodation in Venice
    • ACTV water bus (vaporetto) day pass
    • 7 days, 6 nights Venetian river cruise (standard cabin)
    • Train service from Venice to Rome
    • 1-night, pre-flight accommodation in Rome
    • Fast rail services included
    • All meals included on the river cruise
    • All drinks included on the river cruise (with meals and at the bar)

    Optional: 2 nights stop-over in Hanoi, Vietnam with walking tour before or after your trip from $499 per person after member benefits. Consider extending with a tour of southern Italy.

    Flight-inclusive package from $9,704 $6,599 after member benefits. Final price subject to your travel dates and airline preference.

    All packages include:

    • Lonely Planet guide for Italy
    • No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
    • Extra nights at industry wholesale price (using GCash travel credits)
    • Google Drive folder with soft copies of all travel documents
    • Comprehensive, printed itinerary
    • Personal travel consultant to help plan and customize your holiday
    • Option for best-in-class travel insurance at member price

    Carefully selected accommodation:

    Hotel standards

    Read about our accommodation rating standards and the methods used to assess quality.

    Fully customisable:

    This itinerary is fully customisable to suit your requirements. Your personal travel consultant is available to discuss changes and additions that will enhance your travel experience.

    Special value:

    Lonely Planet Logo

    Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach, up-to-date maps and commitment to providing the best information for travelers. Lonely Planet authors are experienced, insightful travel experts. They personally research the places they write about - both in the first and in subsequent editions - and provide essential travel details along with a wealth of insider information and first-hand tips.

    Italy

    You will receive this guide to help you gain the most out of your holiday. Recommendation: Take the time to read suggestions for things to see and do before you leave home. Take your Lonely Planet guide with you in your luggage.


    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash travel credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard price and full retail value comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what we estimate would be payable by a non-member for the same or similar package and may include a value we define for specialty travel agency services. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

    Start your adventure with three nights in Rome where you'll delve into the captivating history of the Eternal City on a guided tour enjoying skip-the-line access to St Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel. Immerse yourself further into Roman culture with a delectable food tour. Then travel by train to Florence to stay for three nights. Uncover the treasures of Assisi and Orvieto on an enchanting tour. Next, head to Venice to join a very special, seven-day Venetian river cruise. Experience the wonders of Italy and beyond with this unforgettable itinerary.

    "Travel isn't always pretty. It isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that's okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind." - Anthony Bourdain

    DAY 1: ARRIVE ROME (3 NIGHTS)

    You will be met at the airport by your private driver and taken into central Rome where your Italian dream starts. Seize the opportunity to dive headfirst into the city's vibrant streets, ripe for exploration and discovery.


    Wander the streets of Rome

    We'll provide you with a Lonely Planet guide packed with insider tips and must-see recommendations for your sightseeing adventures.

    DAY 2: HIGHLIGHTS OF ROME

    Discover the wonders of the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica on your included tour. Walk through ancient streets, learn about art and history, and see famous masterpieces like Michelangelo's Creation of Adam.


    Visit St.Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel

    Explore St. Peter's Square and Vatican Museums, filled with statues and beautiful art. Finally, visit St. Peter's Basilica, a stunning church with breathtaking architecture. It's a journey you won't forget!

    DAY 3: FOOD TOUR

    Join a fun food tour in Rome's pretty streets with a local guide. They'll show you cool old stuff and yummy snacks. Romans love street food because it's quick and tasty. You'll try lots of delicious things like pizza, suppli, and pastries. This tour is great for people who want to see Rome's main sights and eat yummy food.


    Experience great Roman cuisine on the included food tour

    The rest of the day will be your own pace. Enjoy free activities like visiting the Pantheon, tossing a coin into Trevi Fountain, and exploring Piazza Navona. Admire city views from Gianicolo Hill and discover ancient ruins along the Appian Way. Attend a Papal Audience at St. Peter's Square or explore colourful street art in Testaccio.

    DAY 4: FLORENCE (3 NIGHTS)

    Embark on a picturesque journey to Florence. Let the scenic route captivate your senses as you traverse the Italian countryside, immersing yourself in the beauty of the landscape along the way.

    Savor the remainder of the day at your unique accommodation. Does the idea of an Italian leather jacket appeal to you? Florence is the home of leather goods. If a handbag is your aim, hold off until you get to Venice.

    DAY 5: HEART OF UMBRIA: MYSTIC TOWNS OF ORVIETO AND ASSISI

    Embark on a day excursion to Assisi and Orvieto, escorted by a knowledgeable guide. Starting from Florence, your journey unfolds in Assisi, where you'll explore landmarks like the Convent of Santa Chiara and the Basilica of San Francesco while learning about the inspiring life of St. Francis of Assisi.


    Mystical town of Assisi

    Take a moment to step inside the revered Santa Maria degli Angeli church, reputedly cherished by St. Francis. Next, venture to Orvieto to admire its notable sights, such as the impressive Duomo, before concluding your adventure back in Florence.

    DAY 6: FREE DAY IN FLORENCE

    In Florence, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy. You can start by taking in the breathtaking views from Piazzale Michelangelo or strolling across the iconic Ponte Vecchio.

    Don't miss the outdoor sculptures at Piazza della Signoria or the lively Mercato Centrale for a taste of local culture. Take a walk around the Boboli Gardens or attend a Mass at the Duomo for a spiritual experience. Enjoy street performances and browse the San Lorenzo Market for a vibrant taste of Florence's street life.

    DAY 7: VENICE (1 NIGHT)

    Bid farewell to Florence and embark on a scenic train journey to Venice. You'll stay in the lagoon area for a night before embarking on the river cruise and you will have time to expore the Grand Canal by water bus with a free day pass.


    The Grand Canal of Venice

    Enjoy free activities like wandering through charming streets, visiting landmarks such as St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, exploring local neighbourhoods, taking a stroll along the Grand Canal, admiring historic churches, and experiencing street performances and local markets.

    DAY 8: JOIN 7-DAY VENETIAN RIVER CRUISE - VENICE (6 NIGHTS)

    Get ready for the highlights of your journey - embark on a very special, 7-day Venetian cruise.


    Venetian River Cruise

    You'll be transferred by coach from Venice to Mantua, where you'll board our ship at 6 pm. After settling into your cabin join the crew for a welcome cocktail. Then, enjoy the rest of the evening on board.

    DAY 9: MANTUA – VALDARO

    This morning, you can choose between two optional excursions. Join a guided tour of Mantua, known for its rich history and artistic treasures, including the Ducal Palace and Bridal Chamber.


    Visit the Ferrari museum in Modena

    Alternatively, car enthusiasts can visit the Ferrari Museum in Modena to explore the legacy of Enzo Ferrari. In the afternoon, enjoy free time. Later, we'll sail towards Valdaro.

    DAY 10: VALDARO – VERONA – OSTIGLIA - ROVIGO

    This morning, you can opt for two exciting excursions. In the classic tour, explore the renowned Verona and its iconic amphitheatre or take a tranquil stroll through the Giusti Gardens. Departing from Rovigo, immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of Verona, famously known as the City of Love, and visit Juliet's House to see the legendary balcony where Romeo declared his love.


    Visit Verona where Romeo met Juliet

    Verona boasts a rich history spanning over 2,000 years, evident in its architecture and artistic heritage. Alternatively, in the discovery tour, delve into Verona's gastronomy scene. After the excursion, we'll return to the ship in Ostiglia and spend the afternoon cruising.

    DAY 11: ROVIGO – PORTO VIRO – PADOUE – CHIOGGIA – VENICE

    In the morning, we'll glide along the waterways, enjoying a tranquil cruise as we soak in the scenic views.

    Later in the day, you're invited to join us on an optional excursion to Padua, renowned as the home of Saint Anthony. This charming city is adorned with medieval squares and elegant palaces encircling its historic center. Discover the Pontifical Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, housing the revered remains of the city's patron saint.

    While exploring Padua, our ship will continue its journey towards Chioggia. For those opting out of the excursion, transportation will be provided from Porto Viro to Chioggia, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy some leisure time.

    Following our tour, we'll return to the ship and set sail towards Venice. With the evening ahead, you're free to explore the enchanting city at your own pace, creating unforgettable memories amidst its timeless beauty.

    DAY 12: VENICE

    This morning, choose between two optional excursions: Either explore Doge’s Palace and Saint Mark’s Square. Admire the basilica from outside and tour the palace, known for its stunning architecture and artworks or discover Venice and the Dorsoduro district. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city, including a visit to the iconic Rialto Bridge for breathtaking views of the Grand Canal.

    DAY 13: VENICE – MAZZARBO

    Set out on a morning cruise across the Venice lagoon, where from the sun deck, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of churches and palaces silhouetted against the horizon. Amidst this labyrinth of canals and islands, witness a captivating spectacle as numerous boats gracefully navigate the waterways. Your journey leads you to the enchanting island of Mazzorbo, connected by a pedestrian bridge to the colorful island of Burano.


    Burano Island for great food and unique lace products

    Explore Burano at your leisure. It is renowned for traditional lacemaking and charming, vibrant homes. For an optional excursion visit Murano Island, famous for its glass production. Witness the artistry of glass-blowing with a visit to a workshop.

    DAY 14: VENICE – END OF THE RIVER CRUISE – ROME

    Enjoy one last breakfast aboard before disembarking at around 9.00 am. Head to the train station for your return journey back to Rome.

    DAY 15: RETURN TO AUSTRALIA

    On the final day of your Italian adventure, bid arrivederci to Italy as you prepare for your flight back home. After departing from Rome, reminisce about the unforgettable memories made during your journey across this captivating country. Consider extending your trip with a tour of Southern Italy.

    OPTIONAL STOP-OVER IN VIETNAM:

    • Flight to Hanoi
    • 2 nights’ accommodation in Hanoi
    • Free walking tour in Hanoi

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