Italy, Here We Come!
Perillo Tour – Rome & Amalfi Coast 2025
🎟️ Table of Contents🎟️
- Day 0 – Airfare (TBD)
- Tour Day 1 | Mon. 08/31/25 | Arrive Rome, Starhotels Michelangelo
- Tour Day 2 | Tue. 09/02/25 | Vatican Museum
- Tour Day 2 | Tue. 09/02/25 | Sistine Chapel
- Tour Day 2 | Tue. 09/02/25 | St. Peter’s Basilica
- Tour Day 3 | Wed. 09/03/25 | Colosseum
- Tour Day 3 | Wed. 09/03/25 | Dinner on Your Own
- Tour Day 4 | Thu. 09/04/25 | Pompeii
- Tour Day 4 | Thu. 09/04/25 | Hotel Luna Convento, Amalfi
- Tour Day 5 | Fri. 09/05/25
- Tour Day 5 | Fri. 09/05/25 | Positano
- Tour Day 5 | Fri. 09/05/25 | Sorrento
- Tour Day 6 | Sat. 09/06/25
- Tour Day 6 | Sat. 09/06/25 | Ravello, Villa Rufolo
- Tour Day 6 | Sat. 09/06/25 | Limoncello Tasting
- Tour Day 7 | Sun. 09/07/25
- Tour Day 7 | Sun. 09/07/25 | Capri | Blue Grotto
- Day 8 | Mon. 09/08/25 | Return to US from Naples
Other Information
- Currency Exchange | Using ATMS | Currency Converter $ ↔ €
- Cellular Service in Italy
- Vince’s Family in Amalfi
- Rome 2025 Jubilee Year
- Mimmo Taxi- Amalfi Coast Transportation
- Using the Rome Metro (subway) | Tap & Go Payments
- Claiming your VAT refund prior to departure
Pre/Post-Tour Extensions
Perillo has options to extend your vacation by adding days pre- or post-tour. I can provide similar options, such as 3 days in Amalfi.
Contact me for more information.
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AIRFARE
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Day 0 | Sun. 8/31/25 🛩️Depart Baltimore (TBD)
Mon. 9/1/25 🛬 Arrive Rome (FCO)
Airport Transfer by Perillo at Scheduled Times.
Days 1-3 | Rome | Mon. 9/1/25 – Wed. 9/3/25
🏨 Starhotels Michelangelo, Rome – 3 nights
Only a short walk from the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, the Starhotels Michelangelo embodies all the qualities that make Rome unique: cosmopolitan style, classical grandeur and timeless appeal. Located in the heart of Rome’s Baroque splendor,
Via della Stazione di San Pietro, 14 00165 Roma
michelangelo.rm@starhotels.it T:+39 06 398739
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Wind: 6mph SE
Humidity: 76%
Pressure: 29.88"Hg
UV index: 2
73°F
73°F
75°F / 55°F
75°F / 57°F
Day 1 | Rome | Mon. 9/1/25 – Wed. 9/3/25
Perillo Rome & Amalfi Coast Experience 2025
Arrive in Rome – Afternoon at Leisure – Dinner in Hotel
Viator Excursions and Things to Do
Viator Terms and Conditions
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Day 2 | Rome | Tue. 9/2/25
Vatican Museum – Sistine Chapel – St. Peter’s Basilica -Dinner Out
Vatican Museums
The Vatican Museums, located in Vatican City, are a treasure trove of art and history, housing one of the world’s most extensive and impressive collections.
Established by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century, the museums feature masterpieces from the Renaissance, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Take a stirring journey through art and religious history during your visit to the Vatican Museums. Wander through the Greek Cross Hall to see elaborately carved sarcophagi that might just contain the earthly remains of some of antiquity’s famous kings and queens.
Peek at the Cabinet of the Masks or tour the Sala degli Animali (Hall of Animals) to see a virtual menagerie of fantastic beasts, real and imagined. Walk the Upper Galleries, including the Gallery of Maps, to see how cartographers depicted the world through the ages.
See masterpieces by Renaissance masters in the Raphael Rooms, and rest for a while in the Borgia Apartments. Then, it’s time to marvel at Michelangelo’s exquisite Sistine Chapel, the crown jewel of the Vatican, and perhaps even of all the world’s art treasures.
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The Sistine Chapel: A Masterpiece of Renaissance Art
The Sistine Chapel (virtual tour), located in Vatican City, is one of the most renowned and visited cultural and artistic treasures in the world. This iconic chapel is celebrated for its stunning frescoes, particularly the ceiling painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512.
History and Significance
Commissioned by Pope Sixtus IV, the Sistine Chapel was constructed between 1473 and 1481. It serves as the Pope’s private chapel and is the site of the Papal Conclave, where new popes are elected. The chapel’s architecture is inspired by the dimensions of Solomon’s Temple as described in the Old Testament.
Michelangelo’s Masterpiece
Michelangelo’s work on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel is considered one of the greatest achievements in Western art. The frescoes depict scenes from the Book of Genesis, including the famous “Creation of Adam,” where God gives life to Adam with a touch of His finger. The intricate details and dynamic compositions showcase Michelangelo’s extraordinary skill and creativity.
The Last Judgment
In addition to the ceiling, Michelangelo also painted “The Last Judgment” on the altar wall of the chapel between 1536 and 1541. This monumental fresco portrays the second coming of Christ and the final judgment of souls. The dramatic and powerful imagery reflects the artist’s deep religious conviction and his mastery of human anatomy.
Visiting the Sistine Chapel
Photography is not allowed inside the chapel to preserve the delicate frescoes.
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St. Peter’s Basilica
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Day 3 | Rome | Wed. 9/3/25
Sightseeing – Colosseum
This morning, after breakfast, you will board the bus for a relaxing,
panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman
Forum, Circus Maximus, an arena for horse races during the Roman
Empire, and the Synagogue.
After, you will have an upfront tour of the Colosseum, reliving the
brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, judged by the
Emperor himself.
Bring your ID (not a photocopy) to enter the Colosseum.
The Rome Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. This ancient structure, located in the heart of Rome, has stood the test of time and remains a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
A Glimpse into History
Constructed between AD 70 and 80 under the emperors Vespasian and Titus, the Colosseum was the largest amphitheater ever built. It could hold up to 80,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, animal hunts, and even mock sea battles. The Colosseum’s design and engineering were revolutionary, featuring a complex system of vaults and arches that supported its massive structure.
Architectural Marvel
The Colosseum’s architecture is a blend of Roman innovation and grandeur. Its elliptical shape, measuring 189 meters long and 156 meters wide, is supported by a series of arches and columns. The exterior is divided into four levels, each adorned with columns of different styles: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. The use of concrete and travertine stone allowed the Colosseum to withstand the test of time and natural disasters.
The Gladiatorial Games
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Colosseum is its history of gladiatorial games. These brutal contests were a form of entertainment for the Roman public and a way for emperors to demonstrate their power. Gladiators, often slaves or prisoners of war, fought to the death in front of roaring crowds. The Colosseum also hosted animal hunts, where exotic beasts from across the Roman Empire were pitted against each other or against human combatants.
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Day 3 | Dinner on Your Own
In the evening, you have the chance to explore the wonderful restaurants in Rome on your own. Be sure to try some “Fiori di Zucca,” a specialty in Rome: Zucchini flowers, deep-fried and filled with mozzarella and sometimes, anchovies.
Stop and enjoy the food, and the service. Tell Luigi that Vincenco from Cincinnati sent you and said hello!
The restaurant is 22 yards to the right of the Pantheon.
From your hotel: a 30 min. walk (map)
From the Colosseum: a 25 min. walk (map)
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Day 4 | Depart Rome for the Amalfi Coast | Thu. 9/4/25
Rome – Pompeii – Amalfi – Dinner in Hotel
In the morning, you will take a drive to Amalfi, one of the most
famous coastlines on earth.
Pompeii
Along the way, you will stop in Pompeii! Imagine a city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day 2,000-years-ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape, along with children and dogs.
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Amalfi
Hotel Luna Convento
Almost two hundred years have passed after the conversion from a Franciscan monastery grounded in the thirteenth century by St Francis of Assisi first into an inn, and after that into a Historical hotel designated “Hotel Luna Convento” which has been continuously managed by five generations of the Barbaro family.
Cloister
It is one of the oldest cloisters in the Amalfi area, a spectacular example of Moorish architecture that leaves you amazed by the evocative mystic atmosphere that reigns after almost 800 years since its foundation in 1222, by Saint Francis of Assisi
Visit Vince’s Family in Amalfi
Click here for the Casa Chierchia in Amalfi Page
Wind: 5mph S
Humidity: 79%
Pressure: 29.92"Hg
UV index: 4
77°F
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77°F / 64°F
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79°F / 68°F
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Day 5 | Amalfi Coast | Fri. 9/5/25
Amalfi – Sail to Positano – Lunch in Sorrento – Amalfi
Today, you will sail from Amalfi to Positano (in case of bad weather, we’ll travel by bus). There will be time to explore this picture-perfect village set on a cliff dropping into the blue Mediterranean Sea. Then you will take a quick drive to Sorrento to enjoy a lunch featuring the fresh specialties of the Campania region. The evening is yours to enjoy as you please!
Positano
Discovering Positano: The Jewel of the Amalfi Coast
Nestled on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a picturesque village that captivates visitors with its stunning beauty and charm. Known for its colorful houses cascading down the hillside, narrow winding streets, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, Positano is a dream destination for travelers seeking a slice of Italian paradise.
A Glimpse into History
Positano’s history dates back to ancient times, with legends suggesting it was founded by the god Poseidon for his beloved nymph Pasitea. Over the centuries, it has evolved from a small fishing village to a popular tourist destination, attracting artists, writers, and celebrities from around the world.
Exploring the Village
Wander through Positano’s narrow streets and discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. The village is famous for its handmade sandals, linen clothing, and vibrant ceramics. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its iconic dome and beautiful Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna.
Beaches and Activities
Positano boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the Amalfi Coast. Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, while Fornillo Beach offers a more secluded and tranquil experience. For the adventurous, hiking the Path of the Gods provides breathtaking views of the coastline and the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Culinary Delights
Indulge in the flavors of Positano with its delicious cuisine. Fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and locally grown produce are staples of the local diet. Be sure to try the famous lemon dishes and Limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the region’s abundant lemon groves.
Sorrento
Sorrento: The Gateway to the Amalfi Coast
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the stunning coastline of southern Italy.
A Glimpse into History
Sorrento’s history dates back to ancient times, with its origins rooted in Greek and Roman civilizations. The town has been a popular destination for centuries, attracting visitors with its mild climate, scenic views, and strategic location. Sorrento’s historic center is a maze of narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into its storied past.
Exploring Sorrento
Stroll through the charming streets of Sorrento and discover its many attractions. Visit the Piazza Tasso, the bustling heart of the town, where you can enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes and watch the world go by. Explore the historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Sorrento and the Church of San Francesco, with its beautiful cloister. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museo Correale di Terranova, which houses a collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of Sorrento’s rich cultural heritage.
Natural Beauty
Sorrento is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by lush hills and citrus groves, and its cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastal paths, or relax on one of the town’s beaches, such as Marina Grande or Marina Piccola. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a boat trip to the nearby island of Capri, known for its stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
Culinary Delights
Sorrento is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of delicious dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Indulge in the flavors of the region with dishes such as gnocchi alla Sorrentina, a local specialty made with potato dumplings, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Don’t forget to try the famous Limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the region’s abundant lemon groves. Sorrento’s restaurants and trattorias offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where you can savor the best of Italian cuisine.
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Day 6 | Amalfi Coast | Sat. 9/6/25
Amalfi – Ravello – Villa Rufolo – Amalfi – Limoncello Tasting
After a relaxing morning, you will take a short ride up the mountain to charming Ravello. The town’s beauty is so inspiring that for centuries it has attracted world-famous composers, writers, and artists. You will visit the stunning Villa Rufolo; built by a very wealthy merchant family in the 13th century, it was one of the largest and most expensive villas on the Amalfi Coast. When the famous German composer, Richard Wagner, visited the villa, he was so inspired that he stayed there long enough to write the second act of “Parsifal”, an opera that he had been working on for over twenty years.
Villa Rufolo
Next, you will return to Amalfi for a wine tasting with the best Amalfi Coast wines and the world famous Limoncello liqueur. It goes down easy… but it’s quite strong! Salute!
The evening is yours to enjoy as you please!
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Day 7 | Amalfi Coast | Sun. 9/7/25
Amalfi – Isle of Capri – Lunch
Amalfi – Dinner in Hotel
This morning you will sail to one of the world’s most enchanting islands, Capri. Weather permitting, you will visit the Blue Grotto, famed for its translucent aqua blue light. You will also tour the island, followed by a well-deserved lunch with wine. Later in the afternoon,
you will sail back to Amalfi.
Blue Grotto
Capri
In the evening, you will enjoy your final night at a relaxing dinner in the hotel.
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Day 8 | Perillo Tour Ends | Mon. 9/8/25
✈️ Return to Baltimore from Naples (NAP)
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Naples, Italy
Not just one of Italy’s oldest cities, but among the world’s oldest, Naples and its surrounding area has over thousands of years contributed innovations to not only the culinary and visual arts, but the development of everything from language to music. Today, you’ll feel the friendly spirit of this sunny metropolis as you sample its historic sights, fabulous shopping galleria and irresistible cuisine. But don’t limit yourself to the city itself — Mount Vesuvius, the spectacular Amalfi Coast, and the romantic isle of Capri’s famous Blue Grotto are all just a short distance away. The well-known, buried city of Pompeii is an archeological wonder, and not far from Naples.
Wind: 3mph S
Humidity: 49%
Pressure: 30.18"Hg
UV index: 0
68°F
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Travel Insurance – Trip Protection
My recommendation: While Perillo’s plan is good, a traditional travel insurance plan from Allianz generally offers better benefits and coverage for a similar price when your airfare is not through Perillo. Consider your specific needs and compare the details to make an informed choice.
DISCLAIMER: The above comparison was generated using Microsoft Copilot AI and provides general information. Consult an insurance agent or provider for specific coverage and plan information.
Currency Exchange
Foreign currency exchange is the act of exchanging one type of currency for another. For example, if you’re planning an international trip to Europe, you may want to plan ahead and exchange U.S. dollars for Euros so that you are prepared to cover cash expenses as soon as you arrive without having to stop at an exchange office at your destination. Two hundred euros should get you through until you get to an ATM.
Making ATM Withdrawals – USE A BANK ATM!
The best way to get cash in Italy is to make an ATM withdrawal when you arrive. The Visa or Mastercard exchange rate applies and is better than any rate you’re likely to get exchanging currency at an exchange office or a bank.
IMPORTANT: Make sure to select the option for conversion by your bank. It’s a good idea to check with your bank for specific details about their foreign ATM conversion fees and any other charges that might apply.
Italian bank ATMs are called bancomats and some don’t charge a local ATM operator fee — but avoid using independent ATMs. These third-party ATMs charge like a wounded bull, and it’ll be obvious which ATMs are affiliated with a bank and which aren’t.
🎟️ Itinerary 🎟️
- Day 1 | Wed. 8/27/25 |
- Day 2 | Thu. 8/28/25 | Train from Rome to Salerno or Naples
- Day 2 | Thu. 8/28/25 | Hotel La Bussola
- Day 3 | Fri. 8/29/25 |
- Day 4 | Sat. 8/30/25 | Train from Salerno or Naples to Rome
- Day 5 | Sun. 8/31/25 |
- Day 6 | Mon. 9/1/25 | Cruise Day 1 | Embark Civitavecchia (port of Rome)
- Day 7 | Tue. 9/2/25 | Cruise Day 2 | At Sea
- Day 8 | Wed. 9/3/25 | Cruise Day 3 | Santorini (Thira), Greece (Excursions)
- Day 9 | Thu. 9/4/25 | Cruise Day 4 | Piraeus (Athens), Greece
- Day 10 | Fri. 9/5/25 | Cruise Day 5 | Mykonos, Greece (Excursions)
- Day 11 | Sat. 9/6/25 | Cruise Day 6 | Corfu (Kerkyra), Greece
- Day 12 | Sun. 9/7/25 | Cruise Day 7 | Valletta, Malta
- Day 13 | Mon. 9/8/25 | Cruise Day 8 | Messina, Sicily, Italy
- Day 14 | Tue. 9/9/25 | Cruise Day 9 | Naples (Pompeii), Italy
- Day 15 | Wed. 9/10/25 | Cruise Day 10 | Livorno (Florence & Pisa), Italy
- Day 16 | Thu. 9/11/25 | Cruise Day 11 | Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
- Day 17 | Fri. 9/12/25 |
- Day 18 | Sat. 9/13/25 |
- Day 19 | Sun. 9/14/25 |
- Day 20 | Mon. 9/15/25 |
- Day 21 | Tue. 9/16/25 |
- Day 22 | Wed. 9/17/25 |
Other Information
- Mimmo Taxi- Amalfi Coast Transportation
- Transportation to Rome Hotels from Train Station
- Using the Rome Metro (subway) | Tap & Go Payments
- Wine Windows of Florence
- Claiming your VAT refund prior to departure
Cash and Currency Tips for Europe by Rick Steves
Foreign Currency Exchange Services (pnc.com)
How long does it take to receive foreign currency bank notes that are ordered at a PNC branch?
Standard foreign currency orders entered before 4:30 p.m. ET will be delivered to the branch by the end of the next business day. (during business travel season please allow 1 – 2 additional business days)
Customers may request overnight delivery for a $15 charge. Overnight delivery foreign currency orders entered before 4:30 p.m. ET will be delivered to the branch by noon the next business day. Overnight delivery is only available Monday through Friday and isn’t available on bank holidays.
Foreign Currency Exchange | Fifth Third Bank (53.com)
Fifth Third customers can buy and sell foreign currency at their local branch with competitive exchange rates. And when you return from your trip, Fifth Third can buy back any unused foreign currency, exchanging it back into U.S. dollars. Contact your local branch if you have questions about a particular currency carried.
Foreign Currency Exchange | M&T Bank
There is no online information regarding purchasing euros from M&T Bank. Account holders can call 📞 1-800-724-2440 to inquire about currency exchange services.
Should You Pay in Local or Home Currency When Traveling Abroad?
When traveling abroad, deciding whether to pay in local or home currency can significantly impact your expenses. Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and opting to pay in the local currency is usually the most cost-effective choice.
- Depending on the credit card you use when traveling abroad, you could pay fees that total 6% or more of purchases.
- Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees and choosing to make purchases in local currency may save you money.
- Currency conversion apps can help you better understand pricing and identify hidden charges.
Currency Converter
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For more details, you can read the full article here.
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