Tuck T’26 Second Year Italy Trek – Itinerary

The T’26 Second Year Trek to Italy is a 13-day, 12-night journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, and Sardinia. Picture yourself exploring stunning islands, wandering through enchanting towns, and relaxing on beaches with waters so crystal-clear they’ll take your breath away. Every step of the way, you’ll be treated to exclusive, private tours and excursions, crafted just for your Tuck Class. Discover hidden gems, savor mouthwatering local delicacies, and still have plenty of time to soak in the sun, swim in the pristine seas, and wander through the most picturesque corners of Italy.

Tuck Partners are welcome to join! Dates: August 18-30, 2025.

Daily Itinerary

Monday August 18

Details for Today

Arrive at Catania Airport and transfer to Taormina, your first stop on this Italy trek

Enjoy a Welcome Dinner with the group

 

Accommodation: Splendid Hotel Taormina 4*

Meals: D

Hike Biokovo Mountain, Makaraka, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

Welcome to Italy!

Arrive at Catania Airport. Here you will meet with your licensed English-speaking assistant and coach driver to transfer to your hotel in Taormina (~1 hour away). Check-in to your hotel in Taormina and get comfortable.

This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner (3 courses) for the group at a local restaurant in Taormina.

 

About Taormina:

Spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most popular summer destinations, a chi-chi resort town popular with holidaying high-rollers and those wanting a taste of Sicilian dolce vita.

Founded in the 4th century BC, Taormina enjoyed great prosperity under the Greek ruler Gelon II and later under the Romans but fell into quiet obscurity after being conquered by the Normans in 1087. Its reincarnation as a tourist destination dates to the 18th  century, when northern Europeans discovered it on the Grand Tour. Among its fans was DH Lawrence, who lived here between 1920 and 1923.

Tuesday August 19

Details for Today

Visit Isola Bella, a beautiful little island at the foot of Taormina

Discover Taormina on a private-guided walking tour

 

Accommodation: Splendid Hotel Taormina 4*

Meals: B

Split, Croatia, Pixabay.com

This morning, meet your driver and depart for Isola Bella by bus. Isola Bella is considered the pearl of Mediterranean Sea, glowing with green in the midst of the crystal-clear sea due to its dense vegetation. You will have a chance to enjoy the beauty of this little island at the foot of Taormina. Here, the group can spend some time enjoying the beach, then embark on a 1-hour boat tour of the coast.

Return to Taormina for lunch on your own, and in the afternoon you will meet your guide and enjoy a guided walking tour of Taormina’s historic center. You’ll visit the marvelous Greek theater and enjoy the unique view of Mount Etna and Taormina Bay. Your walking tour will continue among the charming alleys of this famous village to discover its hidden secrets.

Wednesday August 20

Details for Today

Private-guided day, visiting:

  • Marzamemi, a characteristic fishing village, famous for its colorful square
  • Noto, the landmark of the Sicilian Baroque
  • A renowned chocolate factory to enjoy a chocolate tasting experience

 

Accommodation: Splendid Hotel Taormina 4*

Meals: B

Wine Tasting, Korcula, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

This morning, the group will head out for a full-day private-guided excursion to Marzamemi, Noto, and Modica.

First, visit Marzamemi, a characteristic fishing village, famous for its colorful square.

Then we continue to Noto, the landmark of the Sicilian Baroque, where we will visit the recently renovated Cathedral after many years of restoration.

Enjoy free time for lunch or to taste one of the famous granitas.

Following lunch, continue to Modica, to enjoy a chocolate tasting experience at a renowned chocolate factory.

Return to Taormina at the end of the day.

Thursday August 21

Details for Today

Visit the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO heritage site

Cruise to the islands of Lipari and Vulcano

Enjoy a group dinner in Taormina

 

Accommodation: Splendid Hotel Taormina 4*

Meals: B, D

Dubrovnik, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

Today you will enjoy a full day excursion to the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO heritage site.

Meet your driver and guide this morning to transfer to the pier of Milazzo. Here you will embark on your cruise boat for the day (the boat is shared with other groups). First, you will cruise to Lipari Island.

Lipari, where the contrast between the blue of the sea and the white of the pumice mountains provides the setting for the two famous rocks “Petra Lunga” and “Petra Menalda”, is the largest and most populated island of the Aeolian archipelago. Lipari is very charming. A walk along the narrow picturesque streets of the historical town center will offer you the chance to do some shopping and immerse yourself in the typical Aeolian life-style. Here you will enjoy a guided tour of the center.

Proceed to the island of Vulcano. Your cruise to Vulcano is along the coast to observe the stacks, the cave of the Angels, the splendid pool of Venus, the cave of the Horse and the Lion Rock. Stop on the island of Vulcano. Born from the fusion of “Vulcano della Fossa” and “Vulcanello”, this island offers the chance to take advantage of the therapeutical benefits from a bath in the thermal waters and in the sulphurous muds, or simply relax on the beautiful black-sand beaches of volcanic origin. (A swim in the thermal waters of Vulcano is an extra cost that can be paid on the spot if you choose).

Return to the pier of Milazzo, then you will be transferred back to Taormina in your private bus.

This evening, enjoy a 3-course dinner with the group at a local restaurant.

Friday August 22

Details for Today

Fly to Naples, then transfer to Sorrento, your gateway to the Amalfi Coast

 

Accommodation: Hotel Flora Sorrento 4*

Meals: B

Mljet Island, Croatia, Pixabay.com

Today you will check-out of your hotel in Taormina, and meet your driver to transfer to Catania Airport.

Fly from Catania to Naples (flight is not included, but you will receive guidance on which flight to book to align to the itinerary).

Upon arrival in Naples, meet your licensed English-speaking assistant and coach driver to transfer to your hotel in Sorrento. Check-in, get comfortable and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Saturday August 23

Details for Today

Full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast

 

Accommodation: Hotel Flora Sorrento 4*

Meals: B

Mountian biker Hvar, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

Today you will head out for a full day tour of the Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana in Italian), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline located south of the Gulf of Salerno, at the edge of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s a popular tourist destination in the region and in Italy as a whole, attracting thousands of tourists every year.

Start your tour of the Amalfi Coast in Positano, one of the most enchanting places on the Amalfi Coast. Some call it “The Pearl of the Coast”. It’s a dramatically beautiful town clinging to the cliff face as if about to cascade into the turquoise waters below. The town has become synonymous with beach fashion. Enjoy your tour here, and then enjoy some free time to walk along the narrow streets and admire the craft creations. Handmade sandals and “Positano Fashion” linen are famous all over the world besides being a unique and very welcome souvenir!

Then on to Amalfi, one of the oldest and most potent Marine Republics with the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Andrew who dominates the main square. End your tour in Ravello with some free time to enjoy the panoramic view.

Headphones are included for your guided experience.

Sunday August 24

Details for Today

Full-day visit to Capri Island

 

Accommodation: Hotel Flora Sorrento 4*

Meals: B

Today you will enjoy a full day excursion to Capri Island.

Meet your driver at the hotel and transfer to the pier. Here, you will meet your English-speaking guide and board the hydrofoil to Capri Island.

The wonderfully pure and uncontaminated air, the scent of island flowers, the delicate colors, the ancient past, the dramatically beautiful scenery and the sensation of undisturbed tranquility. This is a mere taste of the magic of an island which has become a living legend. Capri is one of the most desired and dreamt of destinations, visited by tourists from all over the world. Tourists come to the island just for the day or stay much longer, sitting in the Piazzetta in the hope of escaping anonymity. In the solitary lanes, one can still come across the occasional artist painting, writing or simply absorbing the energy of the island so as to transform it into their next book, album or film.

Embark on a full day tour in Capri, discovering this magnificent island. Your entrances to the Augustus Gardens and the Blue Grotto are included, as well as your funicular tickets and headphones for the guided experience.

At the end of the day, return to Sorrento by hydrofoil and then transfer back to your hotel.

Monday August 25

Details for Today

Enjoy a walking tour of Sorrento

 

Accommodation: Hotel Flora Sorrento 4*

Meals: B

Dubrovnik, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

Meet your English-speaking guide for a 2 hour walking tour of Sorrento.

Visit the cathedral with its delicate works in marble and wood, the sculptures that decorate the altar and the magnificent paintings. Then, continue to Via San Cesareo and Largo Dominova where the church tower is located, and the historic center and the church San Francesco with its cloister. Finally visit the public gardens with a splendid view on the Gulf of Naples.

Tuesday August 26

Details for Today

Fly from Naples to Cagliari Airport in Sardinia

 

Accommodation: Veridia Resort [in Chia] 4*

Meals: B

Meet your driver and transfer to Naples Airport.

Fly from Naples to Cagliari Airport in Sardinia (flight is not included, but you will receive guidance on which flight to book to align to the itinerary).

Upon arrival in Cagliari Airport, meet your English-speaking assistant and driver and transfer to your Hotel in Sardinia. Check-in and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

 

About Sardinia:

The beautiful island on the heart of Mediterranean sea, “left outside of time and history” as D.H. Lawrence wrote about this fascinating place. Traditions from ancient Europe have survived, the legacy of invasion by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantine, Spanish, Savoyards and Italians surrounded are preserved in this savage nature with rolling uplands covered in “macchia”, grassland mingled with myrtle, wild thyme, prickly pears and dwarf oaks and a coastline of beguiling, translucent sea, isolated coves, long sandy and caves… The island is particularly famous for its beaches which overlook the crystalline sea, but is also rich in other interesting places, such as some charming sea towns and archaeological ruins.

Wednesday August 27

Details for Today

Free day to enjoy the beach, the hotel, and relax

 

Accommodation: Veridia Resort [in Chia] 4*

Meals: B

Dubrovnik, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

Today, you have a free day to enjoy the beach, the hotel, and relax.

Thursday August 28

Details for Today

Visit the Nora Archaeological Site with ancient, pre-Roman ruins

Scenic drive to visit various beaches, ending at Porto Pino, famous for its fine what sand dunes  

 

Accommodation: Veridia Resort [in Chia] 4*

Meals: B, L

Get out an explore the Nora Archaeological Site and beaches in the Chia area on your full day private excursion.

Start your day with a guided tour of the archaeological area of Nora, an ancient pre-Roman and Roman town. The ancient ruins of Nora include an open-air museum and the remains of a theater.

Enjoy a 3-course lunch at a local restaurant with the group.

Then, we’ll drive along one of the most beautiful scenic roads on the island which offers the typical landscape of South Sardinia, covered with a thick blanket of Mediterranean scrub that contrasts with the colors of the crystal-clear waters that go from deep blue to emerald green, to deeper blue for other stretches. Here we will see from above the beautiful beach of Tuerredda, the inlet of ‘Capo Malfatano,’ some beaches of varying conformation and a coastal tower at the top of a characteristic peninsula;  the beach of ‘Piscinnì’ where it is possible to encounter, in the pond behind, pink flamingos and other resident or migratory avian species; and the nearby ‘Campionna’, a small and sheltered cove of pebbles with a peculiar islet of the same name in front of it. The route will end at Porto Pino, famous for its fine white sand dunes in which you can take a refreshing swim at the end of this fascinating day of exploration.

Friday August 29

Details for Today

Free day to enjoy the beach, the hotel, and relax

 

Accommodation: Veridia Resort [in Chia] 4*

Meals: B

Dubrovnik, Croatia, Supplier (PureQuest)

Today, you have a free day to enjoy the beach, the hotel, and relax.

Saturday August 30

Details for Today

Arrivederci Italy!

Transfer to Cagliari Airport for departure

 

Meals: B

Farewell to Italy!

Meet your driver and transfer by private coach to Cagliari Airport for departure.

Accommodation

Splendid Hotel Taormina 4*

Aug 18-22 (4 nights); Standard double/twin room, Breakfast included

Set in the Rock of Taormina, the Splendid hotel overlooks the Ionian Sea and it is located just a short walk from the picturesque old town and the wonderful Greek Theatre. It’s a modern hotel with 56 comfortable rooms all fully furnished in ethnic style, some with sea view, balcony or terrace, bathroom, air conditioning and satellite TV.

Enjoy a meal at Kairos Restaurant. A simple and genuine cuisine. Sicilian tradition enhanced by the talent and the creativity of our Chef Francesco. A unique and enchanting view. An exclusive and bewitching panorama enhanced by wonderful sunsets over the bay of Taormina.


Hotel Flora Sorrento 4*

Aug 22-26 (4 nights); Standard double/twin room, Breakfast included

Set amid the colors and scents of Sorrento, presenting Grand Hotel Flora. A four-star hotel where architecture, art, passion and flavors come together to unveil Sorrento and all the surrounding beauties you can enjoy thanks to its central, unique and privileged vantage point. Its elegant and refined atmosphere is enhanced by a fine Vietri floor and exquisite furniture inlays. High-quality service combines with attention to detail to give each guest a tailor-made stay. Grand Hotel Flora is considered one of the most central and comfortable 4-star hotels, perfect for holidays on the Sorrento Coast. With a view of the city of Sorrento or the Gulf, rooms at Grand Hotel Flora offer a perfect combination of relaxation and privacy.


Veridia Resort [in Chia] 4*

Aug 26-30 (4 nights); Comfort room double/twin, Breakfast included

Immerse yourself in the virgin beauty of Chia, an exclusive retreat for travelers looking to escape into a nature refuge. Located in the charming heart of Chia, less than a hour’s drive from Cagliari, Veridia Resort is a true hidden jewel. Nestled in a privileged position, it rises on a green promontory that offers a spectacular view of the Bay of Chia and the historic Tower. At Veridia Resort, elegance and wilderness converge, offering a restful haven for rejuvenation and peace.

Our private beach is your own little paradise. The beautiful beach of Su Portu can be reached by a short walk of 5 minutes, crossing a wooded path and breathing the sea breeze. The beach is part of a protected nature reserve and consists of pebbles, stones and sand with luxury sunbeds and umbrellas. Indulge in relaxation at our 800 sqm infinity pool, surrounded by sumptuous sunbeds and umbrellas. Perfectly situated for panoramic views, our pool area, with convenient bar service, offers a serene spot to enjoy the beauty of Chia Bay, from sun-soaked days to breathtaking sunsets.

The Resort is located in a naturalistic context which makes the wifi service extremely limited and accessible only in public areas.

Pricing

COST – COMPLETE PROGRAM:

  • Minimum 20 Participants: 3,699 EUR Per Person (Double Occupancy*)
  • Minimum 30 Participants: 3,559 EUR Per Person (Double Occupancy*)

COST – SICILY LEG ONLY:

  • Minimum 20 Participants: 1,369 EUR Per Person (Double Occupancy*)
  • Minimum 30 Participants: 1,297 EUR Per Person (Double Occupancy*)

COST – AMALFI + SARDINIA LEG ONLY:

  • Minimum 20 Participants: 2,430 EUR Per Person (Double Occupancy*)
  • Minimum 30 Participants: 2,362 EUR Per Person (Double Occupancy*)

*Single Supplement to be advised

Price includes:

  • All activities/excursions as outlined in the itinerary
  • All meals as outlined in the itinerary
  • All transportation as outlined in the itinerary

Price excludes:

  • International or domestic flights
  • Tips
  • Any meals / activities not detailed above
  • Visas (if required based on your nationality)
  • Travel insurance (Terraficionados strongly advises putting travel insurance in place to protect your travel investment)

To book this trip, please refer to next steps.

Payment and Cancelation Terms

PAYMENT:

  • 35% deposit required by March 31 to confirm
  • Final payment due May 17

CANCELATION:

    • Cancel before May 17 – loss of deposit
    • Cancel between May 18 and July 17 – 70% penalty
    • Cancel July 18 or later – 100% nonrefundable

Before You Go

Suggested Packing List:

Coming soon.

 

Visas and Vaccinations:

It is the responsibility of all travelers to ensure that proper travel documentation is in place. All countries require a valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa requirements. (American residents, click here for the State Department’s latest outline of travel documentation requirements).

Travelers should consult a family physician or your local travel clinic for up-to-date health information and any requirements for vaccines. More information can be obtained from the ISTM by clicking here. Or, contact your country’s Health or Foreign Affairs department.

Tuck T’26 Second Year Italy Trek – Itinerary