This 13-day / 12-night journey begins in Rome on July 18, 2026 and concludes on July 30. The itinerary includes carefully selected accommodations, coordinated transportation, and a thoughtfully planned sequence of experiences across Rome, Calabria, Campania, and Naples.

Timed to coincide with Sanza’s historic Madonna della Neve festival, this tour offers a rare chance to witness an ancient tradition that predates Christianity. Experience the awe-inspiring early morning ascent of the Madonna to her sanctuary atop Mt. Cervati, arriving at sunrise—a centuries-old event that brings together locals and visitors alike.

In addition to the festival, you’ll visit the stunning coastal resort of Tropea and the charming town of Rovito in Calabria. The tour includes plenty of opportunities to enjoy Southern Italy’s natural beauty and local culture, with optional activities such as cooking demonstrations, local music performances, and outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

Whether you’re interested in genealogy, have Southern Italian heritage, or simply want to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and scenic landscapes of the region, this tour offers a unique and meaningful way to experience the best of Southern Italy. Plus, if you’d like to extend your stay to visit Naples, Rome, the Amalfi Coast, or Pompeii, we’re happy to provide recommendations!

Tour Structure

The sequence of locations, accommodations, and intercity travel reflects the overall structure of the journey. Daily activities may shift slightly in response to local conditions, weather, or special opportunities, while overnight stays and overall routing remain as planned. All major transportation is arranged in advance as part of the program.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Arrival and ROME DAYS

18 July 2026 (Saturday): Day #1

Arrivals at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Transfer to UNA Hotels Déco Roma near Termini. Rest and recovery after international travel. Depending on arrival time, optional light independent exploration.

The journey begins with a gentle arrival period in Rome, allowing time to recover from long-haul travel, adjust to the rhythm of Italy, and explore the city before continuing south.

Mark and Dana will be on the ground in Rome during this period and will assist with airport arrival coordination and hotel check-in.

Participants will stay at: UNA Hotels Déco Roma with easy access to Rome’s historic center.

These initial days in Rome provide time for arrival, orientation, and adjustment following international travel. Optional guided suggestions and coordination assistance will be available, while allowing participants flexibility to explore Rome’s historic center, museums, and neighborhoods at their own pace.

19 July 2026 (Sunday): Day #2

Independent exploration of Rome at a relaxed pace. Suggested visits include the historic center, ancient sites, museums, and architecture walks.

20 July 2026 (Monday): Day #3

Further independent discovery in Rome, with time to adjust to Italy and prepare for onward travel to Calabria.

21 July 2026 (Tuesday): Day #4

• Flight from Rome (FCO) to Tropea’s Airport: Lamezia Terme (SUF) followed by private charter van transfer to Tropea.

• Welcome to the Italian region of Calabria! Benvenuti in Calabria!

• Private airport van transfer (included) to check in at Hotel Villa Paola, a restored 16th-century convent, offering views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, gardens, and an relaxing ambiance. Enjoy a group dinner at the hotel..

• (Day #4 Included meals: D)

22 July 2026 (Wednesday): Day #5

• Enjoy hotel breakfast

• Morning private boat ride in Gulf of Saint Euphemia (part of the Tyrrhenian Sea)

• Relax at Villa Paola’s poolside, nearby beach (a ~15 minute walk through the Villa Paola’s convent orchard).

• Explore Tropea’s nearby old town (about a 20-30 minute walk, or 5-10 ride, from Villa Paola)

• View the Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola di Tropea, a historic Benedictine sanctuary dating back to the 4th century, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea,  a symbol of the town’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage.

• Dinner at hotel or in Tropea’s old town (on your own)

• (Day #5 Included meals: B)

23 July 2026 (Thursday): Day #6

• After enjoying hotel breakfast, check-out and board charter bus

• Private bus to the city of Cosenza in Calabria, a historic town known for its medieval architecture, cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. It features landmarks like Castello Svevo and a charming old town with narrow streets and picturesque squares.

• Hotel check-in (Hotel Europa in Rende - near Cosenza)

• Cosenza sightseeing and dinner

• (Day #6 Included meals: B, L, D)

24 July 2026 (Friday): Day #7

• After enjoying breakfast, Charter bus to nearby town of Rovito

• Tour of the town and visits with Rovito residents. Rovito holds a symbolic role in Italy’s history and struggle for independence and unity, especially due to its connections to the Fratelli Bandiera’s execution and Joachim Murat’s capture—both pivotal in shaping the political landscape during Italian unification.

• Dinner & evening events TBD

• (Day #7 Included meals: B, L, D)

25 July 2026 (Saturday): Day #8

• After enjoying breakfast, Charter bus to the town of Padula and check in at the Hotel Villa Cosilinum, Padula

• Tour of the town and visits with Padula residents. Padula is best known for its Charterhouse or Certosa (di San Lorenzo), one of the largest Carthusian monasteries in Europe, the largest in Italy, and its rich cultural heritage, with medieval streets and architectural landmarks nestled in the scenic Vallo di Diano.

• Early informal dinner at the hotel (in order to rest up for a very early morning ascent up Monte Cervati with the Madonna)

• (Day #8 Included meals: B, L, D)

26 July 2026 (Sunday): Day #9

27 July 2026 (Monday): Day #10

• Enjoy hotel breakfast

• Optional early morning excursion: e.g. walk in the woods or visit to a nearby historic town such as Sala Consilina or Teggiano.

• Afternoon walking tour of Sanza and visit with residents. Sanza is known for its scenic location at the foot of the Cilento mountains, its proximity to the stunning Vallo di Diano National Park, and its rich history, including ancient traditions including the Madonna della Neve celebration.

• Early dinner at Bella 'Mbriana  Restaurant (Sanza)

• Planned afternoon visit to a local farm, and learn how the hilltop towns and farms below were historically connected.

• (Day #10 Included meals: B, D)

28 July 2026 (Tuesday): Day #11

• Enjoy hotel breakfast

• Take charter bus to Naples via Salerno - with planned stop at Pompeii en route.

• Check in at the Grand Hotel Santa Lucia (Naples) & dinner nearby

• (Day #11 Included meals: B, L, D)

29 July 2026 (Wednesday): Day #12

• Enjoy hotel breakfast

• Naples sightseeing (e.g. possibilities include Castel dell’Ovo, Piazza del Plebiscito, Royal Palace, Naples National Archaeological Museum, ancient underground catacombs, and vibrant Spaccanapoli street, Mount Vesuvius, and the island of Capri).

• Farewell dinner at a charming restaurant within walking distance of our hotel.

• (Day #12 Included meals: B, D)

30 July 2026 (Thursday): Final Day #13

• Enjoy hotel breakfast

• Check out of the hotel.

• Coordinated transfer from Naples to Rome for international departures. Travel is typically arranged via high-speed rail (Frecciarossa or Italo) to Rome Termini, followed by direct rail connection to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Assistance is provided to align transfers with each participant’s departure flight.

• End of Tour

Tour Highlights

This tour will especially be for you if you enjoy the following:

• Exploring cultural and Italian heritage connections in or around Naples, Sanza, and other areas in Campania and Calabria

• Experiencing authentic Southern Italian culture and traditions on a small-group tour with the support of an experienced guide and translator

• Participating in local festivals, such as the vibrant Madonna della Neve festival in Sanza, alongside local communities

• Spending active time in beautiful natural areas, including options for walking, swimming, and bicycling through stunning landscapes

• Enjoying a flexible itinerary with optional activities, allowing room for spontaneity and personal exploration

• Savoring Southern Italy’s rich culinary heritage with farm-to-table meals featuring regional specialties

• Connecting with local residents and immersing yourself in the warmth of traditional Italian hospitality

• Discovering charming towns, villages, and historical sites at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for personal reflection

• Traveling with a small group (limited to 14 participants) for an intimate and engaging cultural experience

What’s Included

• A 13 day / 12 night Italy program beginning with arrival and orientation days in Rome, followed by a guided Southern Italy cultural journey.

• Accommodations in carefully selected charming lodgings and hotels: 3 nights in Rome, 2 nights in Tropea, 2 nights in Cosenza, 3 nights in Padula, and 2 nights in Naples.

• Coordinated transportation throughout the program, including arrival in Calabria and onward travel through Southern Italy, with guidance provided for final departure via Rome.

• Daily breakfast, plus additional meals as specified in the itinerary

• One-way domestic flight from Rome Fiumicino (FCO) to Lamezia Terme (SUF)

• Private land transportation throughout the tour, including transfers between destinations

• Entrance fees to all included cultural and historical sites

• Participating in the Madonna della Neve festival in Sanza

• Guided tours and cultural visits in Tropea, Cosenza, Rovito, Naples, and other key Southern Italian towns

• Cultural activities such as a cooking demonstration, a charter boat excursion, and local music experiences (subject to availability)

• Personalized service from knowledgeable local guides and your tour leader

• Assistance with checking international flight options

• Advice on optional travel insurance, including CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason) policies

• Guidance on extending your stay with additional hotel nights or further travel within Italy before or after the tour

• All taxes, service charges, and tips for included services

What’s Not Included

• International airfare to and from Italy

• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

• Meals not specified in the itinerary

• Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, snacks, etc.)

• Optional activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary

• Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) outside of included meals

• Costs for additional hotel nights or extended stays before or after the tour

Salient Tour Details:

• Tour Cost: $5,100 per person, double occupancy

• Estimated Single occupancy charge: TBD (only for single travelers requiring their own private room if available…please inquire if you are a single traveler seeking a roommate to avoid this charge)

• Minimum Participants: 6

• Maximum Participants: 14 (This ensures an intimate experience for all travelers)

• Tour Go/No-Go Decision Date (when it is determined if there are enough refundable deposit-paying registrants to meet the minimum): 31 December 2025

• If our minimum number is not met by our tour go/no go decision date, the tour will be cancelled and full refunds issued, or those still wishing to proceed may have the option for a modified itinerary with increased costs possible.

• Payment in full due date: 10 April 2026

• This journey begins in Rome on July 18, 2026 and concludes on July 30, 2026, with departures typically via Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) following the final night in Naples.

• Tour Design: Tiny World Tours (Mark & Dana) and Astrid Meijer (Cervati Tours)

• Tour Leaders: Astrid Meijer (Cervati Tours) with help from Tiny World Tours (Mark & Dana)

• This program is developed in collaboration with Astrid Meijer of Cervati Tours, an anthropologist and Southern Italy specialist based in Padula, whose long-standing relationships in the region help shape the tour’s cultural depth and local access.

Summary of Planned Accommodations

18–21 July 2026 (3 nights) — Rome UNA Hotels Déco Roma Via Giovanni Amendola 57, 00185 Rome, Italy

21–23 July 2026 (2 nights) — Tropea Hotel Villa Paola Contrada Paola, 89861 Tropea (VV), Italy

23–25 July 2026 (2 nights) — Cosenza Ariha Hotel Cosenza Via Raffaele Coscarella, 87100 Cosenza (CS), Italy

25–28 July 2026 (3 nights) — Padula Hotel Villa Cosilinum Corso Garibaldi 2, 84034 Padula (SA), Italy

28–30 July 2026 (2 nights) — Naples Grand Hotel Santa Lucia Via Partenope 46, 80121 Napoli (NA), Italy

Physical Activity and Expectations:

• This is a moderately active tour with average walking 2-4 miles per day in both urban and rural settings (and possibly even more if you enjoy walking).

• You’ll need to be able to climb up and down multiple flights of stairs (indoors and out)

• You’ll encounter uneven cobblestone streets, sidewalks, and trails.

Please Note:

• This itinerary reflects the overall structure of the journey, including planned routing and overnight locations. Daily activities and timing may shift slightly in response to local conditions, weather, or special opportunities, while the sequence of overnight stays remains as outlined.

• A detailed Travelers’ Notes document will be provided prior to departure.

• Travel insurance, including “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage, is strongly recommended to help protect against unforeseen changes.

• We do our best to accommodate dietary needs—please share any allergies or preferences at the time of booking.

• Participants are welcome to arrive early or extend their stay, and we are happy to assist with additional arrangements upon request. Bespoke private tours are also available.

Points of Interest on Our Tour

SANZA PHOTO GALLERY

Want to join the waiting list? Please email: mark@tinyworldtours.com

(this page was last modified 2026_03_20)