Fran and Ash's Italy Trip 2026

Naples and Florence

October 3-11, 2026

Embark on a memorable journey through Italy, beginning in the vibrant city of Naples. Wander through its bustling streets, discovering historic castles and the lively energy of local markets. Marvel at the grandeur of the Naples Cathedral and enjoy the world-famous pizza that the city is known for. Take in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and explore the nearby ruins of Pompeii, where history and art come together in a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world.

Next, travel to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where art and history take center stage. Admire Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery and take in the intricate beauty of the Duomo. Stroll through the charming streets, discovering artisan workshops and savoring Tuscan cuisine. End the day with a visit to Piazza della Signoria, soaking in the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere. This journey through Naples and Florence offers a perfect blend of history, art, and unforgettable experiences.

Charming Art Nouveau Hotel in the Heart of Naples' Waterfront District

Hotel Rex is situated in an Art Nouveau building in Naples, just steps away from the vibrant waterfront district of San Ferdinando. Its prime location places guests within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as Castel dell’Ovo, Piazza del Plebiscito, and the charming Borgo Marinari marina. The hotel offers a cozy Mediterranean atmosphere with comfortable rooms and elegant simplicity, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s rich history and culture. Nearby, visitors can enjoy scenic views along Via Caracciolo, leading to Mergellina and Posillipo Hill, or explore the bustling streets of Via Toledo with its boutiques, cafés, and historic attractions.

The hotel provides a range of amenities, including a 24-hour reception, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a bar. Guests can start their day with a generous breakfast featuring Neapolitan pastries, with gluten-free options available upon request. Its proximity to museums, monuments, and lively cafés ensures a dynamic experience, while services like guided tours and car transfers add convenience for travelers. Hotel Rex combines a central location with warm hospitality, offering a memorable stay in the heart of Naples.

Elegant Renaissance-Style Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Florence

Hotel Botticelli is a charming 4-star boutique hotel located in the heart of Florence, housed in a historic 16th-century building. Its Renaissance-inspired design features ribbed vaults, frescoes, and elegant décor that create an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. The hotel is ideally situated within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral, Piazza della Signoria, and the Uffizi Gallery, making it a perfect base for exploring the city's rich history and culture. Guests can also enjoy a panoramic terrace overlooking the Basilica of San Lorenzo, offering a serene space to relax amidst the beauty of Florence.

The hotel offers a selection of well-appointed rooms, blending traditional Tuscan style with modern comforts to ensure a memorable stay. Each morning, a generous breakfast buffet is served in a luxurious hall adorned with 19th-century frescoes, featuring a variety of sweet and savory options. With its central location, refined ambiance, and personalized service, Hotel Botticelli provides an intimate and authentic Florentine experience for travelers seeking both comfort and cultural immersion.

ADD-ON Experiences NAPLES:

ADD-ON Experiences FLorence:

TRAVEL details

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(PLEASE SUBMIT ONE REGISTRATION FORM PER HOUSEHOLD)

Pricing details

*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages.. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

Total Prices:

$TBD

INCLUDEd IN THE QUOTE

• Ground Transportation

  • Train transportation

    • Rome Airport (FCO) to Naples

    • Naples to Florence

    • Florence to Rome Airport (FCO)

  • Ferry transportation

    • Naples - Capri - Naples

    • Naples - Positano - Naples

• Hotel Accommodations

  • Naples

  • Florence

• Tours included in the daily itinerary above

• Most taxes and fees

  • Tour taxes and entrance fees

  • Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

• Round Trip International flights

• Ground transportation not listed in the itinerary

• Add-on tours (unless specifically added on to the package)

• Meals not listed or included on food tours

• Gratuities for drivers and guides

• Incidental charges 

• Local Tax

• 4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/debit or credit card)

• Optional Travel Insurance

 

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)

  • If you have more than 2 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 2 people.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 120 days before departure. Cancellations more than 120 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

F.A.Q.

Do I need to validate my train ticket before boarding my train?

High-Speed Trains (no)

Examples:

• Trenitalia (Frecciarossa / Frecciargento)

• Italo

Routes:

• Rome → Naples

• Naples → Florence

• Florence → Rome

What you do:

• DO NOT check in at a station machine

• Just:

  • Show up at the station

  • Go to your platform

  • Board the train

Your ticket:

• Already includes:

  • Train number

  • Departure time

  • Seat assignment

NOTE: Your printed ticket (or phone) is your “boarding pass”

Onboard:

• A conductor will scan your ticket after departure

Regional trains Trains (YES)

Paper ticket?

• MUST validate it in a small machine before boarding

• (Little green/white stamp machines in stations)

Digital ticket?

• Must “check in” online before departure (Trenitalia requires this now)

THIS is where If you don’t validate you can get fined

The best way to get from the Venice Marco Polo airport to Venice is by water taxi as it gives you a panoramic view of the city as you arrive. However, it can be expensive. A shared water bus is also an option. The quickest way is by land taxi but it will not go directly to your hotel. The video below gives an overview of how to get to Venice from the airport.

SHOULD I TIP THE GUIDE AND DRIVER?

Yes!
Your guides will be working hard for you all week, so showing a little gratitude in the way of gratuity is appropriate.
Consider a tip of about €10-20/pp/day that you tour with the guide.

This is NOT mandatory, but it is kind and it is appreciated.

As for the drivers- we suggest a tip of €5/pp/day (+ €2/bag is an appropriate tip).

Euro is the accepted currency

Italy is part of the European Union and uses the Euro. This is easily available at your local bank, usually at zero or minimal cost. You can also exchange it at the airport, but you will pay a much higher fee to exchange from US dollar to euro. If exchanging at your bank, make sure to start the process at least 3 weeks before you leave to make sure there are no issues.

Electrical converter and adapter

You will an electrical converter. Italy uses 230 volts while the US uses 120. You phone charger will not work there without a specific adaptor. In addition, any other electrical devices will need an adaptor as while. It is important, that when plugging in a device such as a laptop, that a quality power CONVERTER, not adaptor is used. Adaptors will work on devices like cellphones, not laptops.

Is the bread free?

Often, when dining out in Italy, the waiters will bring you bread when you sit down at your table. This is not free and will be added to your bill if you partake from it. If you do not want it, it best to say no thank you and have them remove it.

Neither is the water

You will be asked if you want bottled water, sparking or still/calm. There is a nominal charge for this (2-3 euros) per bottle. Usually, one bottle is enough for your meal.

IS the water safe to drink?

Absolutely. The tap water is safe to drink in Italy. And Rome has over 2,500 drinking water fountains, known as nasoni. These fountains provide free, fresh (sourced from springs and aqueducts) drinking water and are a significant part of the city’s infrastructure and culture.

beware of pickpockets and scams

Leave your important documents in the hotel safe and only take cash when you need it. If must carry them, make sure your wallets, passports, and important documents are kept secured in a pouch or purse, slung across your body and not over your shoulder. Zippers should be kept closed and turned inward towards your body if possible and fold your arms across it. If possible, purchase a slash-resistant purse or pouch. Always be aware of your surroundings. Never, EVER, use your back pocket to carry anything, including your cellphone. Use your front pockets.

Also, never interact with anyone selling anything on the street. Do not take anything handed to you. If you do, they will immediately ask for payment. Often, if you are eating outside on a patio, they might place the object on the table in front of you. Do not touch and immediately say “No. No thank you” and ignore them. If they continue to bother you, call your waiter.

cash versus cards

Credit cards are accepted at most places but one should carry small amounts of cash for tips and for taxis. Visa is the most accepted card in Europe while American Express is less so. If your current card doesn’t support international use or charges transaction or currency conversion fees, consider getting a new card specifically for foreign travel that doesn’t charge such fees.

What should I when visiting Cathedrals, Basilicas and other religious sites?

Cover Shoulders and Knees: Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops, tank tops, shorts, or skirts above the knee. A lightweight scarf or shawl can be handy to drape over your shoulders if needed.

1. Avoid Revealing Clothing: Steer clear of low-cut tops, crop tops, or clothing that is too tight or sheer.

2. Comfortable Footwear: While there are no strict rules about footwear, comfortable shoes are recommended as you may need to walk or stand for extended periods.

3. Hats and Headwear: Hats should be removed before entering religious sites as a sign of respect.

4. Seasonal Adjustments: In summer, opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that still provide coverage, such as linen or cotton. In cooler months, layering is a good option to stay warm while adhering to the dress code.

By dressing modestly and respectfully, you’ll not only ensure entry to these sacred spaces but also show appreciation for their cultural and religious significance.

When can i take pictures?

Most places allow pictures to be taken, both inside and outside but may vary from location to location. Always check with the guide or local authority to see if it is allowed, especially within cathedrals and churches. While it is generally allowed to take pictures of the plaster casts of the Pompeii victims, but it’s important to do so respectfully. These casts are not just historical artifacts; they represent the tragic loss of life during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We found this to be a fastest, easiest, and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go into your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Mail the check

• Deposit directly at a local branch