Which Italian tour do you perfer?

[cdumlao]

I'm planning on celebrating my 50th in Italy Dec 07. I have never been to Italy and heard great things about Perillo Tours. After reading your suggestions and opinions on Trip Talk, I'm confused. Sounds like Globus, Insight, and Trafalgar also have great tours. I would like to visit Rome/ Vatacian City. Florence, and Venice. I love food, art, wine, and architechure. Can anyone offer any suggestions?

[Letsgo]

Globus is a wonderful company and I have traveled with then several times. I have a river cruise booked with them for next June already.
Globus has a coach tour called Leisurely Italy that is 11 days and spends 3 days in each of the cities you want to visit. The tour # is LK. I'm sure you would really enjoy traveling with Globus.

I strongly suggest that no matter which company you go with that you spend a minimum of 2 days in each location. I know that from experience.The 1 day in each place is just to tiring and not enough time to see anything.If you look at the reviews on these boards I think you will find that Globus is the favorite for many people.
Italy is very warm in the summer so either go in early summer,May,June or in the fall. Never go to Europe in August as many restaurants and other sites are closed. The Europeons take their vacations in August and the lines are long everywhere during August. With Globus you don't have to wait in lines but it would still be a problem with shops being closed etc.
This web site really does discount the price of the tours. I wish I had found it 4 years ago!!! I made my reservation for the Globus River Cruise by calling the toll free # on the top and got a GREAT deal!!!

[Richard Foy]

We are booked on Globus' tour "From the Thames to the Tiber" in September. From what I have read, think Globus uses better hotels and the rates are great! Haven't heard of Perillo Tours, so can't help you there. Whatever you decide, book early!!

[ZeldaSue]

I have come to appreciate Trafalgar most for European tours. And that is after having used them, Cosmos, Globus and Insight. However, now that I am more budget conscious I shall probably be using Cosmos more

As for tours of Italy, my all-time favourite tour was a Cosmos itinerary - Italian Masterpice. What was unique about this tour was the visit to San Marino. The Tour Director was fabulous; we had a super group of people and I am a shopper and shutterbug so loved San Marino for its views and duty free shopping.

It sounds like you're going to be having an introductory tour to Italy. Since you appreciate art and architect, you're probably going to find that all the different tour company itineraries don't give you enough time anywhere. But that's the problem with following a set itinerary and schedule. Just plan on celebrating more birthdays in Italy! You can't go wrong. (For the art/architecture lover in you you will want to select itineraries with maximum time in Rome, Florence and Vence.)