Village Italy in 14 Days Tour

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

A fantastic experience of smaller sights led by our fantastic guide Trina! And every local guide was excellent! We had an amazing group of travelers and some of the best group dinners. Italy never disappoints and I highly recommend this tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many to choose from but at the top would be our visit to Siena. It was a beautiful city with such a unique history of the Palio. Learning all about the race and visiting a contrade museum was so fascinating. And Siena's cathedral I would rate as one of my top 5 churches-amazing!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my 9th Rick Steves tour, and Village Italy was an awesome tour. Trina is a top notch Rick Steves guide and she had experienced and knowledgeable local guides at all of our destinations. I loved our tour. My husband and I did get covid about halfway through the tour, but Trina and the RS office in Edmonds took good care of us with guidance and support.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was continuously wowed by the quality of the local guides at our destinations. I loved the history at the church and basilica sites. Truffle hunting was perhaps my biggest wow moment, following the enthusiastic truffle hunting dog through an orchard."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour group was fantastic. We all got along and enjoyed everyone’s company. Our tour guide Trina was fun, informative and filled with stories that made things move along. The hotels we stayed in were in the old town, family owned, great breakfast and clean. The villages were quaint and mostly untouristy. Great time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Everyone says the same thing….”there are too many to choose from”. It’s true. The cooking class where we made our lunch, the olive oil farm, the Carreras quarry and the truffle farm where we saw the dog hunt for truffles."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The guide and bus driver were excellent. The local guides were also top notch. The many places we stopped were fabulous Best food I have ever had on a tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved the small out of the way places where there were no other tourist. I loved the pottery visit, truffle hunt, marble quarry and the small museums we visited. My favorite place we stayed was the Belvedere di San Leonino. The views and food was amazing"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a wonderful guide who kept us informed what we were seeing - having so much information made the exquisite country side even more enjoyable. The hotels were gracious, the food delicious, the education life-expanding

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our guide had cast art history knowledge - she gave even deeper perspective to the glorious art work we viewed. I was most struck by the concept that art work didn't always represent 'perspective' - it was introduced by Giotto during the Renaissance"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Again a fantastic tour and what variety! It seemed everything was in this tour, religion, history, art, nature, food and of course the Italian people. We hiked, biked, ate and sipped wines through northern Italy. Great guides explained the individual towns' complex histories and relationships. Starting with the Etruscans we began the history of Italy to Romans, the Middle Ages, Renaissance and on to more modern times. It was so much fun.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The amazing mosaics in Ravenna from the Byzantine era found in the Basilica of San Vitale and the tomb of Galla Placidia were really incredible. Painstaking workmanship was required to create these depictions. From floor to ceiling the mosaics celebrated early Christianity with almost life like renderings of bible stories. They also paid homage to the patrons that paid for them. Nice touch. A lion is remarkably real and looks powerful and strong. Luckily it is not floor level, it might bite!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

While the tour was very good and I had a good time, we visited too many churches. It got to be 'oh no, not another church.' I know the churches have a lot of art, art where it was meant to hang, but it was just too much. The activities such as the dog truffle hunt and the cooking class were the highlights

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was fantastic, Patricia Arturo guide, was outstanding, and went above and beyond on a daily basis. The group we traveled with was great, making our experience that much better. The pace was perfect, the arranged meals were delicious. The local guides arranged were fantastic.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We experienced something amazing every day"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a great tour guide and a great group. Patricia kept us all engaged through tout our tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Assisi and the boat ride along Chinque Terre."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Other than the regularity of 7:30 breakfast 8:30 departure, Village Italy was everything I hoped for and more! Cultural, Historical, Beautiful along with our leader Ann’s composed demeanor throughout. Great food & accommodations (especially Chianti); ?? Wine tasting setting, Olive oil demo and lunch & Stefano!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Easily, Ann’s Story!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We enjoyed the variety of experiences included in this tour: the architecture and frescoes of famous churches, traveling the beautiful countryside and waters, local tours and dining adventures.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Looking up a street in Orvieto we saw the Duomo shining in the late afternoon sun. The narrow street framed a beautiful view of the church."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I really enjoyed the slow pace of Italy's hill towns. The group activities were always interesting and enjoyable. We visited a winery, olive oil press, pottery studio, truffle farm and small farm for a cooking class. The food. scenery and wine was amazing.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Making fresh pesto at the Agriturismo La Pietriccia farm and hiking along the Cinque Terra"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I felt like we got a really good feel for Italian culture. The tour was jam packed with many meaningful experiences. The vegetation in Italy is amazing--really a beautiful country. I especially enjoyed the food and the wine along with the slow Italian way that meals were shared.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved seeing the "Truffle dog" in action at the Truffle Farm, "San Giovanni al Pettine". We then had an exquisite meal served in a beautiful setting. All of the courses of our meal featured truffles. It was really delicious."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I enjoyed this tour very much! Cristina was a wonderful guide - so knowledge and always ready to help tour members have the best possible experience. Visiting smaller cities, towns and villages was a treat. They were generally much less crowded and more relaxed than the big cities of Italy. I especially liked Orvieto and Lucca. Lovely scenery, good food, nice hotels and people - what’s not to like?

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The hike to Civita di Bagnoregio was strenuous, but so worth the effort."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Cristina was always “there” for us is the first experience that stood out. The tours were fantastic and well explained. The tour members bonded as would a family. The whole experience was a wow.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Civita walk. Very impressed with Padua as well."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Christina was an excellent tour guide and went over and above what one would expect.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Walking the bridge to Civta the dead village. Also the landscape of Tuscany."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide, Cristina, was wonderful. She wanted us to get as much as possible out of our two week adventure; she had many stories to tell us ranging from Italian unification to how how pensions worked. The sites we saw were beautiful. It would be so hard to do this trip by oneself. I really appreciated the work that Cristina and her apprentice, Rebecca did for us. The local guides were wonderful. Most of the hotels were very, very nice. The scenery was beautiful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Duomo in Orvieto. Both the façade and interior were breathtaking."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Cristina was a superb guide. The places we visited were terrific. The people on the tour very friendly and nice!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visiting the Florence American Cemetery on Liberation Day."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved the chance to see so much of Italy on this two week tour. I also enjoyed the small yet fascinating walled or hill towns so much more than fighting the tourists in Rome or Venice. Great local guides give that personal touch to the history of these towns.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I had too many wow moments to pick one. Many scenic vistas; mosaics and frescos in ancient churches; walking along the sea on the west coast and Lake Orta were just a few."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was everything we had hoped for, that was advertised and MORE. Great guides, hotels, foods, excursions...it was epic!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I don't have just one....but will choose the day we visited the Etruscan museum (the expert and displays were astounding) and then lunched at a nearby argritismo (the owner was wonderfully passionate about his vision and the food was genius). Everything that day was a wow moment!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first RS tour and we are planning a second for next year, I think that says it all.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many WOW's to pick a favorite."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was outstanding. Our guide Triena was the best!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Lake Orta was a total surprise!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a great tour from beginning to end. Our group was terrific, everyone got along and was very careful of the feelings of others. No grouches, very pleasant. I had done this tour before and was anxious to repeat it. The food was delicious and the wine flowed. All of our hosts were delightful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"This time it was Montafalco! I love the place we stayed and the owners!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a fabulous time, engaging in experiences that we wouldn't have known to seek out. The balance of group activity and independent exploration was appreciated.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It's hard to single out one moment from so many great experiences. Every night, we said, 'well, that just can't be topped.' And, in fact, the next day it was."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very densely packed itinerary. We saw and did a lot.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to pick just one. All of the churches, cathedrals, basilicas, and duomos in Europe are breathtaking. The one in Revenna was certainly a stand-out."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

It was a good tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner in Lucca on our own."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I simply loved the Village aspect of the tour. Every village offered something special. Absolutely loved The Tuscan countryside hotel. Loved Lake Orta. Levanto was a fabulous place to stay.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The mosaics in Ravenna"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide, Patricia, was fantastic. She made history come alive, had a great sense of humor and was responsive to the needs of each member. Village Italy was a whole new way to enjoy this country. The beautiful landscape, lovely countryside estates we stayed in and villages of Orvieto and Maltefalco were among my favorites. I felt that we got to see a more genuine Italy outside of Rome, Florence and Venice. The pace was both quick as we saw a lot, but also easy in more peaceful locations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My absolute favorite experience was the agriturismo cooking experience. The whole group had a lot of fun spending three hours preparing our fantastic lunch. Much laughter! The food was amazing and we learned so much from our host both as a chef and as a person committed to the slow food movement, Beyond that, truffle hunting in the countryside was really fun. Our free day in Orvieto was wonderful. A gorgeous hilltop location and a lazy day to just be "Italian"! Great trip."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

A trip we were going to take in '20...it didn't disappoint. Great tour group led by Patricia. We had her for our Southern Italy tour and had a wonderful experience. So many exciting events and sites!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Arriving at the Hotel Belvedere in Chianti (Tuscany). Our first trip into Tuscany and it didn't disappoint! Tremendous property that was the best hotel we stayed on tour. Breathtaking views and a cozy stay."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Everything about the tour was a grand experience. The tour guide, the locations visited, the hotels (with an exception or two), the food, the local guides--just great.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Unlike tours of England, France, Spain, Eastern Europe there was no Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, La Sagrada Familia but there were the villages of Italy and the people and the food all of which were incredible. If I had to pick a wow moment I suppose it would be Cinque Terre?"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I was impressed by the destinations and planned activities at each location. Our hotels were all outstanding, each with its own personality. I thought the pace in taking our luggage up some of the long inclines could have been a little slower. It also seemed like we were always rushing as we walked to the various points of interest in each village.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were a lot if "wow" moments, from the scenery along the way, the artwork in the churches and the stop at the little town of Civitella Del Lago and its funky Egg Museum. I think the visit to the truffle farm and the outstanding dinner was also a wow moment,"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Loved the history and scenery! Wish hotels were just a little nicer.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to give just one. Local guides were wonderful with each area and city having wow moment."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We so enjoyed the smaller cities and countryside towns that the tour led us through. Our guide was exceptional and the best we have had! This was our third Rick Steve’s Tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I can’t pick one. Seeing the dissection room at the University in Padua. Going to both Assisi and Siena. Mosaics in Ravenna. Staying at Villa Pambuffetti in Montefalco and the Agriturismo outside of Siena was absolutely gorgeous!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

You were able to take us to places I would have never have discovered. Your preparation and knowledge of all the places we went to was excellent. Dinners, hotels, towns and events were all fabulous. You were able to meet everyone’s needs in this diverse group of travelers. Thank you for making this a trip of a lifetime for Sue and I.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many to choose from. I really enjoyed the tour of Siena with Ana"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Wonderful! The reality was better than expectations considering the Covid restrictions. Our group and Nina, our guide, were cohesive. Everyone moved in sync and took care of each other.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite "wow" moment was the spontaneous vacation from the vacation. My husband, Dan and I enjoyed the Tuscan hillside and pool with Annette and Jim."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Wonderful mix of experiences, historical context, overall comfort with tour group participants, leading guide and local expert guides. Accomodations, meals, and structured and unstructured time allowed for a unique travel adventure.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many unexpected surprises. Giotto paintings and Ravenna mosaics were memorable, but exposure to family vineyards, truffle hunting, and Tuscan cooking were experiences that would have been difficult to match on our own."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Terrific tour of small town Italy, beautiful countryside, wonderful people

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many! One that stands out was the view from our hotel onto the gorgeous Tuscan hills."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved Tour guide Nina, she was so informative and full of information! Also loved the “Villages” angle of the tour and not going to places like Rome!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"“Pinky”-awesome man in our group Really it was the amazing local guides that were so into their area and it totally came through! One could almost feel the heart and soul when they communicated with the group"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The Cinqe Terre region.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Many wow moments from meeting and making new friends."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour has been on my wishlist for years. Like that it focused on smaller cities and villages. The first few days are heavy with cathedrals and such. Etruscan museum in Chianciano was fascinating. Enjoyed staying in the countryside. Also enjoyed Lucca and Levanto. Cinque Terre, especially Corniglia, was a favorite. Spent a couple of extra nights in Orta San Giulio, and really enjoyed our time there. Nina was the perfect guide, professional, courteous, informative, and had great stories!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"PINKY!!! (Rick will have to ask Nina for the explanation) Meeting and getting to know fellow open-minded travelers is such an important piece of successful group travel, and this group didn’t disappoint, so the group itself gets my first “wow”. Second “wow” was the surprisingly beautiful and extensive seafood meal prepared by our hosts in Levanto. Etruscan jewelry from 500 BC - wow! Seeing Isola San Giulio from our balcony room - wow!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was the first Rick stevesTour my husband and I took and we both were excited to go on it. It definitely exceeded our expectations. From the first evening in Padua when we met our fellow travelers and our tour guide, we were very happy to learn that everyone seemed to be quite compatible. That continued to be true throughout the 2 weeks. We also liked our guide Nina very much. The towns we visited were very interesting with so much history and the local guides were so knowledgeable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The charming Castellina Hotel in Chianti took our breath away when our bus pulled up in front. It felt like it was a set from a romantic Italian movie! It proved to be just as welcoming and lovely as it first looked to be! We would have loved to stay there longer."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Amazing

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very good overall

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Lots of great moments - nothing I would describe as a "wow.""

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very well curated, planned and organized

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The view of Orvieto from the winery we were touring"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Soo much fun! great tour and great guide!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The 5 course dinner at the truffle hunt, the personal concert in Orvieto and the Joy of the faces of my friends that joined us on the tour"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 2nd RS tour. It was fabulous. The accommodations, the food, the bus, the guide, the driver, and the tour group was perfetto!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Chianti hotel was the most beautiful place I've ever seen. It was the reality of my imagination about Italy."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My wow moments were always around a corner...the view from a villa, looking out over a valley, or gazing at a mosaic ceiling."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very strenuous! Stronger now than when I started. Unbelievably good guide. Felt like I had a master class in all things Italian! The towns and villages were much more beautiful than I had imagined; also much bigger than I thought! Some of the places we visited had populations over 100k.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The resort hotel near Sienna and Lake Orta"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I loved the choice of hotels, the food, the guides and the organization of the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many wow moments but I would say the seafood feast that was served when we were in Levanto was excellent!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I loved this trip so much! Most of our destinations (with the exception of Cinque Terre) were uncrowded and a dream. The itinerary was flexible enough to allow us a few unscheduled stops and our guide was conscious of not wearing us out. I learned so much about Italy and its culture and regions. The logistics were thoughtfully planned and flawlessly executed.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Recognizing the start of the Torre neighborhood in Siena by finding an elephant sculpture and elephant tiles dating back to the 1600's on a building in a little plaza. I'd love to go back to Siena to find all the neighborhoods."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

I really enjoyed our Italy trip. The guide was knowledgeable, the driver was really good and the group of people we were with were great. But honestly but I am very Lactose intolerant and my food restrictions were not addressed. My first week there I tried to manage it with lactose pills and imodium but by day 7 I ended up literally shitting my pants in an elevator and having to throw my favorite jeans away. Fortunately it was on the way to the bus and I had my suitcase with me to change.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Tuscany and Lake Orta were my favorites. I could have spent a week at the villa we stayed in."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour guide and bus driver were both wonderful, as were the local guides. I particularly enjoyed the smaller crowds and smaller towns. Our guide took us to several unexpected places - the Florence American Cemetery, the Painted Egg Museum in a very small hill town, to the Owl contrada museum in Siena.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several - the Scrovegni Chapel, the view and peace from our Tuscan agriturismo, the boat ride along the Cinque Terre, and so on!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour exceeded my expectations. Many of the unexpected stops, I enjoyed those more than things I was planning on being the highlight of the trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many wow moments in this tour. However I would have to say originally when we got there and we saw Giotto's frescoes that was something that was very amazing."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This is a truly special tour - an excellent itinerary and pace, fascinating destinations and experiences, a great group of people - all held together by our exceptional guide Trina and our skillful driver Sergio. Trina provided mini-lessons on history, art, and culture that prepared us for each day and set the tone with her friendly, positive attitude.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I just can't say because there were so many. The "wows" ranged from the Scrovegni Chapel and Ravenna mosaics to the cooking talk and lesson and the views of the countryside. Because the pace of the itinerary was a nice balance of group and independent time, I particularly enjoyed some places and meals discovered during our free time."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I really enjoyed visiting some of the less touristed areas of Italy. The smaller towns and the corresponding less frenetic pace was a refreshing change from the norm.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It is hard to pick one… the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua with Giotto’s frescoes was awesome. The Egg museum we toured in a very small mountain top village was a really unexpected surprise! Touring the Owl Contrada in Siena made that day trip worth it for me."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was everything I'd been looking forward to from the description. Our days were full of interesting, varied and well-organized activities. We had many wonderful group dinners, excursions, lectures and opportunities to explore each place on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved staying at Villa Pambufetti, with the wonderful vista from its dining room, the beautiful grounds, scrumptious breakfasts, comfy rooms and walking up the steep hill into ancient hilltown Montefalco."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was our first but it won't be our last!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"How on time everyone stayed..thanks to the guide!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Sights visited were great, but I felt rushed throughout the tour.

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Great as usual HOWEVER, I would prefer 3 nights at MOST stops (maybe 75% of them), visiting fewer towns but more time in the towns/places we do stop at, less bus time (see A), the group was large (25, I think)which was large-ish but the people were great to be with. (A) we drove 30 minutes past Assisi to stay in Montefalco then drove back to visit Assisi the next day. Even though I liked Montefalco I would prefer to stay closer or actually in Assisi.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many good/great moments to pick one. I liked; Orvieto, Sienna, Civita, Lucca and Levante."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was a beautiful and action packed experience. We saw so many sights that we would not have on our own. Food was amazing and the people were wonder

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Gosh, there were many. The cathedrals, the art, the best we’re the little villages on the hills."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Saw a lot, did a lot, learned a lot. Didn't get a feeling for "the villages of Italy as much as historical villages. I wanted to get a better feel for the daily life of Italians and that was missed. Having breakfast croissants and cappachino outside of the Cafe with seniors watching the workers head to work gave us that feeling. But it was in Venice, before the tour started. More time at overnight stays, 3 or 4 nights rather than every 2, would be less hectic.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"In Belvedere Hotel in Tuscany, sitting outside overlooking the hills, cedar trees and beautiful landscaping having a Lemoncella spritz. Everything I envisioned Tuscany to be."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Overall, Small Villages Italy is a wonderful itinerary. There are some very special local experiences and outstanding local guides.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Because Covid had the potential to overshadow our tour, the "wow" for me was having a so-called "apprentice guide" who had to step in and take over. She did an amazing job and turned out to be very experienced, knowledgeable and fun guide."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was excellent . Anna was an amazing guide . Professional, knowledgeable and entertaining in her delivery of information . Sadly a number of people tested positive for Covid during the first week of the tour and had to leave …a difficult situation Anna handled very well .

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All of the tour was really well designed . I particularly loved time spent in Tuscany ..Siena, and Lucca"

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

The 42% of the trip we saw was enjoyable. The tour guide was great and as usual the people on the tour were nice as expected of a Rick Steve's tour. Unfortunately our trip was cut short at the end of day 6 due to COVID being the 7th & 8th persons to leave the tour. By the next morning a total of 10 people out of 24 left.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The 2nd town stay in Montefalco was very nice with great hosts and beautiful views."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We had a very short version of the tour because we contracted COVID. During the four days, we had a remarkable visit. Anna is a first-rate guide and all of the activities we enjoyed were fabulous.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"When you are wowed every hour, it's difficult to select a single wow. Learning about Giotto might have been this tour's pivotal moment as it seemed that the Scrovegni Chapel opened the doors to our art education for this tour!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

A fine tour overall, but sadly cut short due to Covid

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All parts of seeing Padova"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The trip was well planned and organized. The guide, Patricia, was excellent. She was actively involved with ensuring that the needs of the participants were met. She was engaged in every aspect of the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Villa Pambuffetti"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first Rick Steves Tour. Our tour guide, Patricia was incredible. Words can’t describe Patricia’s positive attitude, sense of humor and dedication to our group. Shoutout to our amazing bus driver Giovanni. Not knowing much about Rick Steves Tour, the most impressive aspect of our journeys was not just the incredible historical sites we visited , but the hands on interactive experiences we participated in.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being in the construction industry, seeing some of the most beautiful arenas/ colosseums , cathedrals and protected historical cities was breathtaking. But , a special heart warming setting was The Hotel Belvedere di San Leonino."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I have to admit I was a bit nervous traveling with strangers in this small setting, but I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people. They became friends in a short amount of time. I think our Rick Steve’s Tour Guide, Patricia, was the one responsible for this cohesiveness. Patricia informed us of group expectations and yet she went above and beyond to help individuals whenever needed.This tour company offered us unique experiences we would not have been able to find or do on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many, but here are a few of my favorites; the farm-to-table dinner was exquisite and the view unbelievable; pottery making and painting demonstrations; hands-on Tuscan cooking lesson and eating our creations; Etruscan Museum; Hotel Belvedere di San Leonino and its location was right out of the movies; all the hill towns, Lucca and it’s wall in the early morning before sunrise and again at night lite up; Carrara’s snow-white marble quarries; hiking cliffside paths in Cinque Terre."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

There were only 21 people in our group and we all got to know each other well. The weather cooperated with us the whole tour and few obstacles were put before us. The group had several impromptu get together s and really had a good time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Favorite WOW moment? There were several. A truffle hunt and amazing dinner outside of Montefalco. Orvieto and the wine pairing at Villa Felici was amazing. The Etruscan museum at Chianciano Terme was great and the local guide along with being very funny was also very knowledgeable. Probably the biggest wow moment for the entire group came at Castellina in Chianti. We all fell in love with the views out over the beautiful pool."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The towns, sites, tours, tour director, bus driver and the tour group was wonderful. We could sit back on the bus and just enjoy the scenery. Someone else had booked the hotels, the guides and made the reservations. After doing this for ourselves for years, it is a joy to appreciate someone else's project management skills.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"How do you chose? There were so many. I think seeing the cinque terre towns from the boats, which was something I never expected to experience."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 4th RS tour. Our tour guide, Patricia, was incredible. She was accessible during the whole trip - helping to coordinate activities during our “free” time, answering questions and making sure we were getting as much out of the trip as possible. She sets a high bar for the rest of your tour guides.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Civitas was beautiful and a good workout! The cooking lesson and enjoying the fruits of our labor is also a wonderful memory."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Superb guide and wonderful people on the tour made this a great experience. Most of the tour stops were great. The food was not as good as we have experienced in the past with RS and on our own in Italy, and most of the hotels were mediocre. One exception was the stay at a Tuscan villa - that was wonderful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Staying in the Tuscan countryside amongst the vinyard."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

In the Village Italy Tour we felt like we were in the true heart of Italy, and each day was a new and exciting discovery. The pace of tour activities and time on our own was perfect. The tour guide was lively, entertaining, informative and helped each of us individually to achieve our goals of activities to pursue. I can easily say this was a trip of a lifetime. We came home exhausted and full of excitement, and that is exactly what we wanted.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The trip was simply a series of "Wow!" moments: seeing Giotto's frescoes in the Scrovengi Chapel and at Assisi; the incredible views of the Umbrian and Tuscan countryside from the hilltop villages; attempting to speak Italian to a waiter in Orvieto who got so excited that he gave us dessert for free; the unbelievable blue of the Ligurian Sea from the Cinque Terra; being too tired to take another step but the excitement of discovery that kept us going; our delightful guide and fellow travelers."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Beautiful memories of the Italian landscape, educational explanations of the centuries of art, architecture, and food, and hands-on experiences of the villages. Our group was terrific and our guide was full of energy and always smiling.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Carrera marble mountains with the “snow” covered roads. Just majestic!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Patricia was a wonderful guide; reminding people to mask up on the bus and public transportation etc. really enjoyed the small towns. Hotel selection was meh with a few notable selections.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Learning about making of ceramic plates and all the hours needed."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was great. Deborah was a wonderful guide. The pace was a bit exhausting at times and I was disappointed that we stayed in Levanto vs. the Cinque Terra.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Meeting with the Contrada in Sienna. It brought the town alive."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide Deborah was absolutely a delight. She was so informative and so much fun. She took care of everything so the tour and all events went so smoothly. All the little things she did made the tour so much fun. Our group really responded to her and it was a joy to be around everyone.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Etruscan museum with Roberto as our local guide."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide, Deborah, was amazing! She was so knowledgeable and added a personal touch to the tour.All of the people on our tour were friendly and easy going. We were able to develop a special friendship with a couple that we keep in close contact with.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being in Siena and learning about the contradas and the horse race."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My first RS tour and I saw so much more than if I had done it on my own. Great guides, companionship from fellow travelers and time to explore on my own. Each day was filled with experiences and expert advice from our tour leader who kept us organized and moving through a complex itinerary

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing a concert of works by Puccini and Mozart at San Giovanni Church in Lucca. Absolutely breathtaking."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Such a great balance of structured activities and time on our own. Our tour guide was charming, kind and cared about each member of the group. We had experiences that we would not have been able to plan on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The last place we visited (Lake Orta). The hotel was beautiful, lots of nature and great food. The celebration dinner was very special."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I enjoyed going to the small villages, but also liked seeing Padua, Luca and Sienna. I had been to Sienna and Luca before, but got to know about them in more depth.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being able to go into the Contrata rooms in Sienna. Also the Etruscan museum."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The hotels were way over the top for a long time RS tour goer. Deborah was exceptional as our guide. She may have been the most prepared guide we have ever had on a Rs tour. everything was thought out as well as planed for us, almost too much. As usual the local guides were great as well as the experiences were well thought out.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"For me as a science teacher, the visit to the university in Padova was like going to the Ephisis of science. To be in the same room as Galileo and Copernicus was my highlight."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great guiding, itinerary, and pace. I've been on a number of Rick Steves tours and travelled Italy on my own by train, and in particular on this trip I enjoyed the 2-night stays, ample free time, and opportunity to for places and experiences not easily reached by train or worked in otherwise, Volterra and Montefalco.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Scrovegni Chapel in Padua. Actually Padua itself was a revelation -- designated a "City of Art" by UNESCO, it was really enjoyable to visit for its frescos, piazzas, arcade sidewalks, apertivo vibe, and restaurants."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I liked our group, everyone was happy, and seemed open to engage in whatever. we saw some things that most tours don't do. The American WWII cemetery was an unexpectedly poignant experience and the sausage making lesson was a hoot.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was really impressed with the exhibit of the actual human dissection theater used by early anatomist to train doctors in the early renaissance"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our Village Italy Tour was wonderful! Our guide was knowledgeable and went out of her way to answer questions and help us as needed. Some days were packed pretty full, but I wouldn't have wanted to omit any of our incredible experiences.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The entire tour was a "wow" moment! We were fortunate to have a wonderful guide and to be with a great group of people which added to the whole experience. Some of the dining experiences that could happen only on a tour like this were very special, like helping to make our lunch at a working vineyard , the lunches that went with the wine tasting and the olive oil tasting, and the meals prepared for us at the hotel in Levanto, the truffle farm, and the farewell dinner at Lake Orta."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Fantastico! We loved our guide, Cristina. She made the tour so informative, historical, decisions and the trip of a lifetime. Our driver, Marco was wonderful as well. He was professional, safe and became our friend by the end of the trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The view from Hotel Belvedere de San Leonine in Castellina in Chianti. The Truffle Hunt Dinner in Montefalco at San Pietro a Petrine. The view from Villa Pambuffetti in Montefalco. The wine tasting, view, food and relaxation at Tenuta Le Vedette in Orvieto. All of the food in Italy. The churches."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Cristina was an exceptionally informative, tireless and overall wonderful guide. She made sure we saw and knew everything possible about everything and place we visited. She made our experience the best!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to pick just one!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was a positive experience with regards to the itinerary and our guide Ann

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Civite was an aha moment for me!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide was knowledgeable and organized and kept us going. The sights and experiences were memorable. The hotels, especially the villa and the place in Tuscany were amazing. The food was great!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My wow moment was the boat cruise of the Cinque Terre and the day to explore. We went to Vernazza and Manarola and it was amazing."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour leader Ann was great, my fellow group of travelers as well, the lodging, included tours, meals, transportation, free time was outstanding and I would do another Rick Steves Tour. That sums it right!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The local guide as Assisi.. Giuseppe was his name... really wowed me.. but the care Ann our tour leader had and her suggestions for what to do in our free time and treating us like adults in figuring things out."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very good, met our goal of exposure to "not big city" Italy. Lots of potential for a return trip to explore in more depth. Liked the culinary experiences and activities like cooking own meals at an ecotourist farm. The amazing durability of structures and the number of cultures represented.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"too hard to pick one, the number of churches and cathedrals stands out."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Ann, our guide, was excellent. As usual enjoyed the variety of activities many of which we would not have thought of doing on our own. The pace of the tour was good balance of free time to group activities was good.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Lake Orta visiting the island touring the church. The cooking class at Chianciano Terme. Crossing the walkway bridge to the village of Bagnoregio realizing half way across hey this is high."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Loved the balance of the set itinerary and free time. We had 19 people in our group and it was a perfect size.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Trying all of the different wines and foods grown in the region we were in."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide Deborah was wonderful. Bus driver Stefano was excellent. Both worked well together and made sure we were well taken care of. My first time to Italy and a Rick Steves tour and all my expectations were met.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Cinque Terre"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had an absolute blast on this tour. It is our third Rick tour and everything we expected was delivered. Deborah was a great tour guide and all the local tour guides were friendly, fun and very knowledgeable of the areas we explored.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The wine tasting and biking around Lucca."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour was filled with interesting highlights and experiences and our guide was outstanding. However, some of the locations are not villages and are quite large - those are the ones that we least enjoyed. Our bus driver was outstanding. This tour might be better enjoyed in the spring and fall due to the excessive heat that depleted one's energy. Despite this, I would recommend it to others.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Who could forget the truffle hunt in Montefalco in those glorious hills that was followed by a five-course meal that rivals that of any chef? My mouth still waters thinking about the truffle bruschetta and pasta. In contrast, there were the glorious colors of Giotto in the Scrovegni Chapel and the many Donatella sculptures seen along the way. The cooking class that demonstrated the few number of ingredients used in Italian cuisine to make such delicious creations."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Sarah was simply the very best tour guide I’ve ever known. I’d say that she was probably 50% of my positive view of this trip. More about that later I hope. The whole group just seemed to really mesh. We all looked out for each other and became a family. It was really hot on this tour and several times tour members reached out to ensure others were okay. The accommodations were fantastic. Our hosts, even the curmudgeonly hotel owner at Lake Orta were so welcoming. I rate this tour a 9.5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"This is too hard. How do I narrow down 14 days into one “wow” moment? There was the villa outside Montefalco. Wow. There was Anna in Siena giving a sneak tour of the Luca clubhouse. Wow wow. Sarah’s tour of the Douro do Orvieto. Wow. Christina giving us a tour of the Scrovegni Chapel and then going out with a group of us for a wine tasting after! Wow wow wow. Bad Dad Joke Roberto giving us a tour of the Etruscan museum and our visit to the winery outside Orvieto were definite wows."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The entire tour was outstanding. Every day our group had the opportunity to see places and have experiences that would have not been possible on our own. Our tour guide Sarah was excellent and our fellow tour mates were lots of fun. Duomos, mosaics, gelato, aperol spritz, truffles, olive oil, wine, homemade pasta, art, sunflowers, wine, Lupa!, lemoncello,…. Are just a few things we experienced on the tour that were magical.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many special moments for me. Driving through the Tuscan regions and staying at 2 beautiful hotels in this region was a pinch me moment right out of the movies."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a wonderful tour, full of surprises. The group, the guide Sarah, Mauro the bus driver, all were excellent and made this a fantastic trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many to choose from, but I would have to say the tour of the contrade with Anna in Siena was an especially entertaining and informative moment. It really helped us understand the Palio race better."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

From the beginning introduction to the end this tour was perfect. Our guide, David, was outstanding - informative, friendly, and always teaching. The itinerary was just as described, smaller towns with history and full of culture. The hotels were clean and accommodating with breakfasts and helpful, friendly staff members.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Not so much wow, as humbling and thankful... Learning about the WWII Italian Underground from our guide and then seeing the places where they worked - Orvieto, Assisi, Villa Lecchi to name a few. And - our 'guide's choice' to take us to the Florence/American cemetery - thank you."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first Rick Steves Tour so we had read reviews but did not know what to really expect. Our expectations were far exceeded. The guide David was extraordinarily knowledgable, not quite sure even Rick Steves could have done as good of a job, and he had a unique patient way of explaining everything from sights to culture to food. Everyday was well balanced with tour time and free time. David understood the area and what should be seen and where we should eat.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"While it could be the mosaics in Ravenna, the Giotto's or the family run villas were we slept, truly the unplanned stop at the American cemetery outside of Florence was so moving and special to us."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Other than the heat the tour was fantastic.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We took an unscheduled side trip to the American cemetery near Florence. While we are on vacation for a good time, this was so moving. Every American should visit one of the many cemeteries for our military personnel, which are so well looked after by the local people. Incredible."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our Village Italy was a great one with wonderful food and wine shared with new friends. Our guide, David was exceptional in knowledge and love of his country which he shared very well.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being in the lovely city of Orvieto for the festivities and processions of Corpus Christi was among the favorite moments of the tour. The costumes were beautiful and the community spirit was palpable."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first tour ever, and it delivered as promised — exceptional guide, interesting itinerary, experiences I'd never/rarely have on my own, congenial tour members, free time as advertised. Our guide was consistent in requiring masks, and as far as I know, we all remained healthy. Would I take another RS tour? Maybe ... a few itineraries are intriguing, though I think I'd enjoy it more with a companion than as a solo traveler and I did grow tired of changing hotels every couple of nights.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"A tour friend and I walked the vineyard trail at Manarola early one morning, and the views of the sea and the colorful dwellings stacked along the cliffs were just gorgeous."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent tour of new Italy’s small villages. David was an exceptional guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Orvieto with its charm and religious pageantry."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trip was way more than expected! Our guide, David, was outstanding. The guided tours were far more wonderful because of David and the local guides. Loved that we were off the beaten path and that we had a nice balance of planned time vs free time. It was so much fun connecting with rest of group, especially while watching David share his musical talents (and Ezio too). Loved how we tried local foods, wine, and traditions.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to pick one wow moment! Favorite places were Orvieto and Lucca and Villa Pambuffetti in Montefalco."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our second Rick Steves Tour and it was just as fantastic as the first one. The people on the tour all meshed into a family and made it such an enjoyable experience. David was fantastic and his impromptu concerts were part of my special memories from the trip. The local guides, especially in the Etruscan Museum and in Lucca, were also great. I loved seeing the smaller towns in Italy and also having time just to relax in the countryside or walk around in the towns.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I couldn't pick one, but the truffle hunting and dinner at the farm, seeing the Carrera marble quarries, and the day in Cinque Terre all stand out. Also the Etruscan museum was an unexpected delight."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a great trip. Loved the itinerary, missing the huge crowds in the big cities. David is an amazing guide! Just the right mix of scheduled activities and free time to explore.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Carrara marble quarries. Would have loved to have time to take the more extensive tour!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first formal tour. We had a great experience. Everything went off without a hitch. Our tour guide, David Tordi, was excellent. His knowledge, personality and ability to lead the tour were great. When we had a minor health issue David was very accommodating in helping us with the local pharmacies to get what was needed. On the tour there was plenty of free time to use as we pleased which was much appreciated. Great tour and we will definitely do another.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"On the truffle hunt and meal the experience e was outstanding. Besides seeing the dogs and their handles hunt for truffles the meal following it was unbelievable. It was a great setting on a hillside during sunset. What a pleasant finish to a great experience."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very positive experience. I hope to be able to take another Rick Steves’ vacation in the future. I can’t imagine having a better tour guide.

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Historian, musician & friend to everyone in Italy, David was a pro at seamlessly organizing logistics. He was diplomatic, patient, professional, personable. He opened up his country to our group of travelers, calmly accomodating a group w diverse interests, sharing culture & history. Hotels, restaurants, museum visits, guided walks thru ancient towns & villages, all superb. We awed at the marble quarry, mosaics, frescoes, ceramic workshop, tasting olive oil, truffles & wine.

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

David was exceptional. Did a superb job throughout. Shared his personal experiences of the areas visited. It was an advantage that he’s from Orvieto. Excellent choices of local guides. They were all knowledgeable and entertaining. We liked the mix of organized activities and free time. Bus driver, Eliot, was exceptional. Cleanest bus we’ve ever been on, including crystal clear windows for viewing. Great rapport between Ezio and David.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Carrara marble quarries. An unexpected delight. Fascinating to see and learn about!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was phenomenal. Because we visited smaller towns, I got to appreciate all of the beauty of Italy without the mass tourism. The tour provided a good balance between learning about Italian art, history, food, and culture. Knowledgeable, kind, and quick-witted, Christina was the best guide that I could have hoped for. She clearly loves her job and enjoyed teaching us about her country. I also enjoyed getting to know my fellow travelers.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"In terms of art, I enjoyed seeing / learning about Giotto’s frescos in the Scrovegni Chapel. The Etruscan Museum was also pretty incredible. Italy’s natural beauty “wowed” me the most when I hiked to the castle above Assisi and, later, from Vernazza to Corniglia in the Cinque Terre. Watching the sun set over the Umbrian landscape from Orvieto’s cliffs is also something that I’ll never forget."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We completed the Village Italy in 14 days in June 2022. We didn't think about the fact that many of the "villages" are very similar when we booked it. No town stood out as a wow as much as the GAS tour we did in 2016. It was also a much more active tour than I expected. Except for the Tuscan villa, the hotels were disappointing, but the food, wine, and experiences were very good to excellent.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The half-day wine and lunch experience was our favorite."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I enjoyed getting out of the big cities and taking a tour focused on smaller villages and the countryside of Italy. Our wonderful guide, Cristina, shared her passion for Italy with us, and Giovanni, our bus driver, expertly navigated through some very tiny streets to get us right where we needed to be. This tour has a food and wine focus that did not disappoint.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The experiences! The wine tasting, truffle hunt, cooking class, and olive oil tasting. Oh, and the views! Stunning!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This was my 5th Rick Steves tour. The Village Italy tour to me covers the real "Italy". Our tour guide Cristina was phenomenal. I learned so much more about Italy's history, culture and architecture because of her. Did I mention the food was to die for? My group of fellow travelers were engaging, curious, and fun to journey with. We had great conversations about Italy and life!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Multiple "wow" moments. Seeing Giotto's Frescoes, Mosaics in Ravenna, Siena's Palio, Agriturismo, Green Hills of Orvieto, and the Ligurian Sea!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very good! Excellent tour guide, Patricia. Comfortable hotels, good itinerary.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our visit to Civita. It was a late afternoon with thunderstorms all around us. A dramatic sky that managed to hold off raining on us as we climbed up to this tiny, hilltop village."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Village Italy was the perfect tour. The weather was warm, the company was good, the guide was exceptional, the food wonderful, the places visited interesting and beautiful. I was thrilled to be on the road again.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My "wow" moment was the dinner on the terrace at the truffle farm. Four of us were sitting at the end of a table eating and drinking lovely food and wine, in a beautiful location overlooking vineyards and orchards, with perfect weather. All of this would be "wow" enough, but in addition we four had fantastic conversation - spanning many subjects - each of us listening and talking and each of us inspired with intellectual and emotional fire. Wonderful evening."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Lead by Tricia Brady who was friendly, covered the details, injected humor and information. Great froup of fellow travelers. Itinerary was interesting, beautiful and fun.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My general 'wow' was learning about the Etruscan civilization, whom I knew little about. Between museums with a knowledgeable and funny guide, walking in Etruscan tunnels where wine was stored for aging and seeing an existing arch in Volterra. - WOW!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our goal was to experience the culture and history in the small villages of Italy and this tour met all of these expectations. The tour guide Trina was outstanding, the group meals were fabulous and the camaraderie within the group was most enjoyable

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Learning about the ancient Roman history and touring the US veterans memorial cemetery outside of Florence."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great guide (Trina) and a wonderful group of people.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Every day was a "wow moment". To be in Italy with the person that you love where wine, great food, life and people are treasured is breath taking. You must visit Italy."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trina our guide was fantastic. I appreciate all events. Tours were well planned. I appreciate the free time allocated.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Tuscany. Stunning."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour surpassed our expectations! It provided a good balance between culture, architecture, cuisine, scenery, and people with very knowledgeable and entertaining local guides. We enjoyed the small-sized group we were able to get to develop relationships with. We also enjoyed the many varied activities that focused around food and wine. However, it was Trina, our tour guide, that was really responsible for helping to make this tour exceed our expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Wow moments are different for everyone. While the planned activities were great, what really wowed us was being immersed in the Italian culture and geography; walking the narrow streets, coming upon a street musician playing the violin in Assisi, the atmosphere and views from our villa in Castellina to name a few. And the smiles and surprised reactions from wait staff when we attempted to order in Italian!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Exceeded my expectations on all fronts. I wanted no part of “canned” tourism - I wanted to feel the culture and surround myself in how it would feel to live in Italy. I learned so much and will be reinforcing what I learned for the next few months to go deeper in my understanding of the history of Italy. Our tour guide was so informed in not just the history, but the geology and plate tectonics on why Italy is so unique agriculturally.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many but the American WW2 Cemetery was sobering and put the world in perspective for me and swimming in the Mediterranean in the Cinque Terre made me literally pinch myself."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our second Rick Steves tour and we continue toe be impressed and pleased with the professionalism and the well planned itineraries. Our guide demonstrated a wealth of knowledge about the locations and history of those areas we traveled to which would never have been possible it we had visited these locations on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Every single day provided some sort of wow moment so this must be a trick question."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a fabulous tour from start to finish. The planned activities and meals were all excellent. I'm already sorting through the website to find my next tour, and this is coming from someone who doesn't like to travel. Our guide Trina was exceptional. The local guides were equally great.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many "wow" moments, but the one that rises to the top was the truffle hunt with the two crusty Italian truffle hunters and their two expert truffle finding dogs. The dinner that followed was superb."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trina did an outstanding job. Her efficiency and group management skills were excellent, and her passions for travel, history, and culture greatly enhanced the whole experience. Marco was a skilled driver, and our tour group became a real travel family. We enjoyed the diversity of the experiences: truffle hunting, olive oil tasting, the cooking class, touring the marble quarry, boating along the Ligurian coast. The balance of group and free time improved as the tour progressed.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the truffle-hunting dogs work, then dining alfresco while watching the sun set over the Umbrian countryside."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent mix of culture, history, great food and experiences. Our tour guide, Trina, was outstanding. Her knowledge of history, art and culture was amazing. The overall pace of the our was busy but manageable. Lovely balance of planned events and free time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Walking up the Main Street in Orvieto and emerging onto the square with the Duomo. Incredible! The wows continued when we walked inside too."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well organized, entertaining and educational.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Charm and character of the hill top villages."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Well it is a blur right know. So much to take in and so much great food, yet I lost 5 - 10 lbs. never was sure what day of the week it was and I am sorry to say I was just going with the flow. For me that was perfect. I was relax, excited, stuffed, hungry, wow, exhausted, and rested. What more could one want?

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Truffle hunt and the dinner after. 5 stars!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Being led by a caring guide through many experiences that we would not have found on our own is a great experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was really impressed with the amount of effort it took to obtain the Carrara marble. To see the site and the primitive tools used to remove a block of marble big enough for Michelangelo to carve David, and to reflect on the conditions many had to work to eke out a living centuries ago."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Having done so much research on RST tours, my expectations were quite high for my first actual RST Tour. On ALL counts, it exceeded my expectations! Incredible Guide (Cristina Pernechele...scholar, caregiver, problem-solver & beyond), Sergio (splendid driver), "family-run" hotels were very high class and in great locations, each town had a wonderful local guide, lots of non-itinerary surprises and the activities well laid out so that super active days were followed by mellower ones. Perfetto!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Impossible trick question! Too many "wow" moments for a favorite. Scorvegni Chapel, seeing Galileo's teaching podium, watching the Deruta master artisan effortless creating bowls & vases in a moment, the Florence US cemetery, serendipitously meeting a Pistoia councilman who stopped to talk to us as we stood in the central piazza, surprise just-for-us concert in Orvieto with "The Bartenders", David Tordi's (Rick Steves' guide) amazing guitar trio, hike from Corniglia>Vernazza...WOW!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

A wonderful trip. I couldn't believe the tour packed so much in and made it so much fun!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were MANY wow moments...But the beautiful cruise along the Cinque Terra as well as the open day to explore Cinque Terra stood out. We hiked a trail from Manarola to Corniglia Rick recommended & ate at a Levanto restaurant he recommended-DA RINO...both were A+"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The Village Italy tour was magical! Our second Rick Steves tour and we were delighted with our entire experience. Cristina made sure that every detail was taken care of for us throughout the tour. We can’t wait to book our next tour!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were too many “wow” moments to pick just one. We loved so many places, meals, experiences, etc. We enjoyed our fellow tour members. Sergio, our driver, did an amazing job."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well organized, varied, sumptuous food!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Small opers"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My husband and I are so grateful that we were able to go on this tour, which was delayed for two years due to COVID. Wonderful weather, picture-perfect scenery, and a varied and interesting itinerary made for a fabulous trip. Our tour guide, Christina was terrific. She went above and beyond to plan fun "surprises" for our tour group throughout the trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There are so many to choose from, but, on our 'free' day, hiking with my cousins (who live in Munich) in the Cinque Terre from Manarola to Corniglia."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Visiting the smaller hill towns and countryside was so lovely, different and peaceful than the bigger touristy areas in Italy I've previously visited.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The truffle hunt and eating outside that evening watching the glorious sunset!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had been to Italy before (The Heart of Italy) eleven years ago, and wanted a slower, smaller more intimate experience. This tour did not disappoint!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many special moments to list. No one favorite."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We really enjoyed this tour and so happy to travel again. Lisa A. was organized, compassionate, and knowledgeable during this tour that had some challenging times. I loved the Scrovegni Chapel and Giotto's frescoes. I wish I could have stayed longer to study the story. The colorful mosaics of Ravenna were unbelievable. The truffle hunt was fun and something so different than the rest of the tour. And Lucca was a beautiful walled city. We enjoyed a nice stroll along the top of the wall.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We finally made it to the Cinque Terre and I thoroughly enjoyed the peacefulness in Vernazza of sitting at the bay on a rock bench with my husband. The trail was high above and we watched the hikers enter the city. The city was amazingly quiet until a cruise ship tour landed at "our bay." My 2nd "wow" moment was seeing the Orvieto cathedral at night all lit up and enjoying the passeggiata in the city's streets with the Italians."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very good but exhausting tour. Many late nights and early mornings.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Loved the pottery demo in Deruta. So interesting to watch the painters and the pottery demo was interesting. I asked a lot of questions!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I liked getting into small town Italy .Tons of deep history in these small places , I know it’s still touristy and full of people but in centuries past these towns were busy with travelers and occupier’s like merchants pilgrims and mercenaries so not much has changed.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Saint Patrick’s well in Orvieto , quite an engineering achievement."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Really loved it.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The beautiful Tuscan countryside."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This RS your was great as expected even though even with some other tour members getting COVID. Lisa was great and gave her unique prospective of becoming Italian and her stories gave lots of onsite. The time on the bus, in the small towns, and visiting additional sites was well balanced along with free time to do our own things. Thanks for another great RS experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Finally getting to the Cinque terre which we missed in 2011 with the floods."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our 4th RS tour was everything we expect-great guide, fun fellow tour peeps and fab Italy immersion. 5 people getting Covid was an issue and we felt grateful we could complete the entire tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Lake Orta was exceptionally lovely."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Overall tour was very nice. Our guide, Trina, was fantastic! Driver was superb! Very well organized, but the hotels were a MAJOR disappointment. I don’t mind carrying my bags up stairs, but some of the rooms and bathrooms were so small, you barely had room to change your mind!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The quality of our guides knowledge and her ability to communicate."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our second time touring with Rick Steves in Europe. We were fortunate having beautiful weather every day, Our guide, Trina, was knowledgeable and very organized. The small Northern Italian towns were charming and colorful. The local guides were exceptional. The pasta was delicious. The bus was comfortable and clean and our driver Pierre Angelo was terrific. The only “rub” was the lodging in two towns inferior. Padova and Levanta were C-. The proprietors nice but rooms sub-standard.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Boatride on the Mediterranean along the Chincaterra coast was Fantastic!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The trip was wonderful. Our guide Trina was so kind and patient with everyone. She had an excellent understanding of the history of Italy and tried to give us the basics so we could get the most out of our time in each small town.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved approaching the Cinque Terre by Ferry Boat. Trina had good tips for getting great photos of the small sea side villages. Our local guide in Lucca was outstanding. I loved her humor and the way she shared info about her culture in Lucca."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The knowledge of the tour guide was outstanding, she was compassionate and energetic. Each town had its own personality.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Beautiful scenery, the marble quarry, the streets in Sienna."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

great leader in trina! loved all the places we visited..

Favorite "WOW" moment

"1) the hike in chica terra ;between villages..the last stop in da Porta"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Overall, this was a great tour. Beautiful art, delicious food, gorgeous views! Wish there was more time to spend in some of the small towns. The local people we were able to interact with were delightful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Scorvegni Chapel was a highlight! We also loved being able to visit Assisi and Siena!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was fine but not exceptional as the Eastern Europe trip we did.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hiking Cinque Tera"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Good. Could have been better with more free full days tacked on to trips, especially in various village cities. More on that later.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Knowledge of local guides, which has always been great."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Absolutely great tour. I think my favorites were the Scrovegni chapel, mosaics in Ravenna, and marble at Carrera

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Etruscan museum!"

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Tour guilds and bus driver were excellent. Hotel… three out of seven were good the rest were inadequate. Shower stalls were not acceptable and only 2 out of 5 hotels have Kleenex box in the room.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Truffle hunt and the dinner afterward"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

With “Trish” as our amazing guide, an incredible experience our group was bound to have as we shared one awe-inspiring experience after another. The Villages of Italy Tour has been on my bucket list for many years and it did not disappoint. In fact it exceeded all expectations. “Oh my, how can it possibly get any better than this?” I thought as we experienced our first medieval village. And then it did. Over and over again I would marvel at the phenomenal moments of the day. Loved it all!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Oh now that is so difficult to do— to pick one out of so many. Was it the moment I first saw the Villa Pambuffetti in Montefalco or was it the family owned winery in the Umbrian region. But then we went to Orvieto. For sure this was it— until I walked to Civita! Wow!! And then The Belvedere hotel with it’s Tuscany views. And of course all of Cinque Terre must be included—one wow moment after another. As you can see I just can’t pick one favorite wow moment when there were so many."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trish provided a wonderful immersion into Italian culture! Hilltop towns, food, activities and people were definitely enjoyed!0

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Staying at the Villa in Montefalco and learning about one family’s history! I also enjoyed the Isola San Giuliano and wanted more time there!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was great to be traveling again after COVID. Patricia, our tour guide was amazing and fun loving as well as very aware of health and safety protocols. I loved seeing her reconnect with hotel owners after the 2.5 years that she did not travel with Rick Steves.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved seeing the mountain where Michealangelo got the marble to create his statues. His comment about the David statue was that the statue existed already inside the marble. It was his job only to remove the excess. That reminded me of how Paul McCarney of the Beatles wrote the song Yesterday. The melody came to him in a dream and he simply wrote it down."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Although I was about Cathedral-ed" out by the end I was truly astounded at the frescos & mosaics of centuries old work. It is hard to conceive of the dedication required to produce such works in otherwise pre-industrial societies.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"In a word... Arne Bagnoreggio - Civita. Talk about a hill town. That's not in any way to diminish all the other wonders we experienced."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide , Trish, was enthusiastic, energetic, and organized. She helped make the experience wonderful. Umbria and Chianti were my favorite areas. We never lacked for amazing food and beautiful views. The bus was seamless with 19 of us . Our driver, Lucca , was timely and competent. The weather was perfect.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The truffle hunt and following dinner was a highlight. My favorite places to stay were in Umbria , Chianti and Lake Orta."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

the tour was very well organized and the tour director Nina was amazing; well organized, entertaining, answered all our questions, retrieving lost items, providing maps and all around very informative. the bus driver Edso? was also amazing. An excellent driver and very helpful and energetic. the tour had many nice surprises usually very tasty and informative dinners. Seeing pottery and food preparation artisans. great places like montefalco , Asissi, Cinque Terre, Lake Orta. Great walking tour!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"there were more than one. 1) the superb wine tasting. 2) watching artisans make designs on pottery. 3) the hands on preparing and eating food at a superb italian farm/restaurant. 4) the boat tour and vistas of Cinque Terre"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We were amazed with the small hill towns we visited.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Civita the dead city wa just incredible and the moment that stood out above all."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Never boring, interesting people (guides and travellers), flexibility due to sufficient free time, pleasant hotels (some vey nice), our schedule never became hectic.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visit to San Vitale, Ravenna"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great in all respects. Cities, hotels, guides and excursions. All met or exceeded my expectations. Nina was high energy and kept us on track and moved along briskly, which i enjoy. Choice of cities for the tour was great and hotels were nice.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Lunch with wine tasting and pairing was great. Hotels and views in Montefalco and Orviento were "Wow" for sure."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Nina was a wonderful tour guide and all the adventures in each town lived up to the tur descriptions. HOWEVER, I posted on my preference sheet, I could not digest dairy and I do not eat red meat, therefore, when we had group dinners and everyone was served red meat, I was given porridge (at the truffle event) or given cheeses at the olive oil event. Many times, I felt hungry at these group dinners.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We only spent a few hours in Volterra, but I could have spent a few days exploring the beautiful city, the interesting artists shops, exploring the gift shops, and taking more time to explore the Etruscan museum.I loved this town and think more time should have been devoted to it."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

My overall experience was positive. Enjoyed Nina and especially liked her 'pace'. The group was enjoyable. Most of the lodging is what I expect in a RS tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The mini church inside the big church - in Assisi. Chapel of Porziuncola was quite stunning and unexpected."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The local guides were great and Nina, was outstanding. I studied the Italian language so I could speak to Italians in their language. Nina and Edzio, our driver, helped me along.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"While in Assisi, the tour guide told us about the painting that depicts St. Francis talking with the Muslim Sultan. He then told us how Pope John Paul would pause by this painting and was inspired to host a day of prayer for people of all faiths and no faith."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My husband and I had always wanted to go on a Rick Steves tour. Our expectations were high and this trip exceeded those expectations. We did and learned more than we thought possible. Our tour guide, Nina, was wonderful, knowledgeable and well organized. She coordinated our end of trip Covid tests, as well as our taxi rides to the airport. Our whole tour group melded together and traveled as friends. We were very pleased with hotels and the meals provided by the tour. Planning to do more tours.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Rick Steves tours provide so much more than site seeing. The "Wow" moment from the Villages tour were too numerous to choose. We loved the truffle hunting and the dinner that followed, making dinner with Chef Stefano, and wine tasting and lunch in Umbria. The Italian countryside was breathtaking and we didn't mind traveling on the bus between destinations. Many of the towns that we visited were set on hills, affording incredible views."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide Nina was great. She was organised and very resourceful if things did not go as planned. She worked very hard. It was a great experience. Especially liked Truffle hunting, olive oil tasting, wine tasting thrown in between the sight seeing. Lots of churches. Maybe to many.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Orvieto was cool. Cinque Terre"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

``Our overall experience was excellent. This tour, hill top towns and villages, is a great look into the "real Italy" I have been to Florence, Venice, Rome, etc., but would highly recommend this trip as a way to take a look at the Italy a lot of travelers do not see.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many... but without a doubt my favorite city was Orvieto. We were lucky to have a special night there."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

An outstanding experience due to a great guide, a great group (and as a bonus, only 14 of us), a great intinerary, and as a bonus, great weather. My first travel experience since 2019 was highly anticipated and it met all expectations. The only negative was the spectre of potentially testing positive for Covid and having to leave the tour or delay the return trip home (at considerable expense). That said, I felt relatively safe due to the precautions taken.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The stay at the Villa Pambuffetti in Montefalco felt like a luxurious step back in time - it was wonderful. The concert by our tour guide David and his band was world-class. The seafood feast/group dinner in Levanto at the Albergo Primavera that was so good that the group hung together for several hours afterward talking and singing. And the lunch at the rural estate/winery outside of Orvietto with the delightful Cecelia and her take on wine, olive oil and life."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was fantastically organized, with multiple visits to villages large and small and enriching stops in between. What made the experience exceptional, though, was our tour guide David Tordi, who went above and beyond continually.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to choose one "wow" moment after fourteen days and probably twice that number of happenings. If I had to choose, though, I'd have to go with the unexpected stuff. Our stop in Portovinere for lunch and shopping, for instance, and embarking on the boat for sightseeing along the coast and arrival in Cinque Terre. Beautiful!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We felt that we really got to see Italy through the backdoor. The tour was more than we expected in terms of cultural enrichment and great travel companions. Our small group of 14 was the perfect tour size. Most of all, David Tordi, our tour guide was phenomenal. Several of the hotels were fabulous to stay in. We really felt like we learned so much and enjoyed everything

Favorite "WOW" moment

"For my husband, it was touring the Carrera Marble quarry. For me, it was the first sight of the interior of the Cathedral in Sienna as visiting Civita Bagno Regio. Most moving experience, touring the American Cemetery near Florence and seeing the names of some many who were missing in action."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very rewarding and worthwhile experience. Spent two weeks going to incredible places, seeing amazing sights, led by a wonderful guide, and enjoying it all with fantastic tourmates - all while eating great food.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"In Cinque Terre, we walked the trail from Corniglia to Vernazza - which took less than two hours. For most of that time, my wife and I were alone on the trail as far as we could see in both directions. Just us, the trail, and the sea. It was awesome."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a wonderful tour. Contributing factors were: 1.) an excellent tour guide in Deborah Heyburn, 2.) excellent local guides, 3.) beautiful Italy, 4.) interesting and congenial fellow travelers, 5.) great food and wine, 6.) very good weather, 7.) a friendly, safe and skillful bus driver in Stephano and 8.) well located and good accommodations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My wow moment was cruising on the ramparts of Lucca on a bicycle. However the visit to Cecilia's vineyard overlooking Orvieto and having drinks with friends on the patio of Laura's Tuscan villa were contenders."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my 7th tour with Rick Steves. As expected, the tour provided a rich experience of the villages of Italy. Our tour guide, Deborah, was funny, knowledgeable and took excellent care of our group. Our bus driver, Stephano, was a skilled driver and helped to make a pleasurable trip. The accommodations were nice, and I especially enjoyed the villa in Tuscany. It was a pleasure to experience the food, wine, art, history and scenery with a wonderful group of people.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Sitting with our group on the patio outside the villa in Tuscany. The scenery was spectacular!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

appreciated spending 2 nights in one place. Deborah was GREAT!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Scarvegni Chapel!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

An engaging, enlightening experience! The towns were larger than I anticipated, and the were much more culturally diverse than I expected. The overall plan of the tour, coupled with a top-notch guide, the receptive Deborah, melded together for us. We thank all—including all the good folks behind the scenes—for such an unforgettable experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Finding a church in Levanto that was apparently dedicated in 1468, some 24 years before Columbus sailed to the New World."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Absolutely fabulous! Village Italy exceeded my expectations. Excellent guides (traveling with us, and at every town, museum and experience), delicious food and wine, and a friendly, fun group of fellow travelers. The towns were picturesque, the Italians friendly. So many different experiences - wonderful memories made.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"This tour filled in my art history gaps - Giotto's frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua; Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna; frescoes by Cimabue and Giotto in Assisi; The Duomo in Orvieto, with its frescoes by Fra Angelico and Signorelli; the Duomo in Siena, works by Pisano, Duccio, Donatello, Bernini, and the Piccolomini Library - wow! Just to name a few."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour was wonderful. Not only did we visit the 6 main villages of the tour, but we also stopped and explored several other villages along the way or as day trips. We really got an immersive experience into life in small village Italy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"While on our own in Orvieto we visited Pozzo di San Patrizio ("St. Patrick's Well"). The engineering involved and the view from the bottom of the well was amazing!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour exceeded my expectations in every manner: itinerary, guides, hotels, food, etc.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Tour with Christina in Padua. This was a great way to start the tour: she was informative, passionate, engaging, and humorous. It was certainly a "WOW!""

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our caring, thoughtful, interesting and knowledgeable tour guide, Deborah, enhanced this trip immensely. Her knowledge and explanations at sites was remarkable. The coordination of sites, excursions, activities was smooth and always had a surprise of delight. I can’t stop raving about the Village Italy Tour, absolutely fabulous.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The visit to Deruta where I witnessed how the beautiful hand crafted ceramics are thrown, crafted, and painted. Amazingly beautiful pieces of art and all the proud artisans were there working. It was really cool!"