Depart on your international flight to Naples, Italy

Upon arrival at Naples airport, you will be greeted by your private driver for your transfer to your hotel. After checking in and time to relax, enjoy a welcome dinner with Cathy Whims and your fellow travelers. Overnight in Naples Note: Pre-nights in Naples are available for those who wish to arrive early. Please inquire about options.

Today we’ll journey from Naples to Maratea, a hidden gem on Italy’s Tyrrhenian coast, nestled between rugged mountains and the deep blue sea. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian,” Maratea is famed for its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming medieval village. In the afternoon, a relaxed walking tour will introduce us to the town’s captivating history and culture. Overnight in Maratea

Today we will begin our exploration of Calabria with a scenic journey to the coastal towns of Praia a Mare and Diamante. In Diamante, admire the town’s vibrant murals that narrate the region’s storied past. Later, we’ll enjoy a boat ride to Isola di Dino to admire its sea grottos and the nearby Arco Magno waterfall—one of Calabria’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Overnight in Maratea

Today we travel inland to the village of Luzzi, with its well-preserved historic center and strong local traditions. Here, you’ll be warmly welcomed into a community rich in heritage. Learn about traditional homes and clothing and join local women for a cooking demonstration that showcases Calabrian ingenuity—transforming simple household ingredients into hearty dishes like Maccaruni e purpetti (homemade fusilli and meatballs). After lunch, we continue to Cosenza, a cultural hub in northern Calabria. Overnight near Consenza

This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Cosenza, where ancient roots meet artistic expression. Highlights include the city’s Norman castle, its historic cathedral, the Teatro Rendano, and the Palazzo Arnone—once a prison, now the National Gallery. The afternoon is free to explore on your own; you might stroll along Corso Mazzini, a pedestrian street lined with boutiques and cafés. In the evening, we’ll ride an open-air panoramic train through the city, followed by a live theater performance accompanied by local musicians. Overnight near Consenza

Today, we’ll make our way to Tropea, with a delightful stop en route in Belmonte Calabro, a charming medieval hilltop town known for its winding stone streets and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian coastline. While in Belmonte Calabro, we’ll participate in a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef and prepare traditional Calabrian dishes using time-honored techniques and fresh, seasonal ingredients. After our culinary experience and lunch, we’ll continue to Tropea, one of Calabria’s most beloved seaside towns. Overnight in Tropea

Today we will return to the Calabrian coast to visit the “pearls of the Ionian Sea”, Isola di Capo Rizzuto and Le Castella. We will make a visit to its local castle and soak up the sun in this idyllic setting. In the afternoon, we will arrive in the charming seaside town of Tropea. After a walking tour through the historic center, we will continue to enjoy the magnificent coastal views from the former Benedictine sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola atop a mountain peak above town. Overnight in Tropea

Today we will visit the nearby Pizzo Calabro with its intriguing Chiesetta di Peidigrotta, an underground cave full of carved stone statues and its Aragonese Castle. While in Pizzo, you will have the chance to sample the local Tartufo di Pizzo, a much-loved gelato-based version of a truffle. Overnight in Tropea

Today we will venture south to take in the amazing views from Capo Vaticano before heading to the village of Gerace on the other side of the Calabrian peninsula. You will enjoy walking its winding streets and catching the glimpse of small-town life in Gerace all while enjoying its spectacular views of the mountains, valleys and oceans afforded from its hilltop position. We will visit the Byzantine-Norman cathedral in Gerace and an interesting local museum before we cross back over the peninsula to the coastal town of Scilla. We will reach Scilla this afternoon, our resting place for the next two nights. Overnight in Scilla

This morning we will explore Scilla with its Medieval castle, breath-taking views over the Messina strait along with its picturesque Chianalea fishing district. Afterwards, we will venture further south to the “toe” of the Italian peninsula. We will visit Reggio Calabria and its world-famous archeological museum where will find the famous Riace bronze warrior statues. These statues where found submerged near Riace in the 1970s and are two of the few remaining full Greek bronze statues from the 5th century BC. We will also enjoy a walking tour of the city center filled with history from the many cultures that have inhabited this region including its beautiful promenade, Roman baths and its Greeks walls. Overnight in Scilla

Travelers departing today will be transferred to Reggio Calabria Airport where you can catch onward flights to Rome or Milan. For those continuing on, a 7-night extension to Eastern Sicily awaits. Join Cathy Whims as we explore her favorite Sicilian destinations, including a stay at the refined Shalai Resort on the slopes of Mt. Etna, a Michelin-starred dinner, and more unforgettable culinary experiences.