Italy presents a particular problem for the cruise passenger. There is too much of it.
A ship arrives at Livorno at breakfast and suddenly otherwise rational adults believe that before dinner they can see Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Tuscany, Michelangelo’s David, three churches, two wineries and perhaps meet a countess.
They cannot. Abercrombie & Kent’s approach to Italy is more interesting because many of its newer programs increasingly ask guests to choose an experience rather than collect attractions.
For 2026/2027, Churchill & Turen Ltd. Guests can select from a wide selection of the very best private shore excursions created to serve the needs of guests of the World’s Top Ten Cruise Lines (www.cruisetruth.com) on a private ship-to-ship basis.
WE CAN ARRANGE THE BEST PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING ITALIAN PORTS
Civitavecchia / Rome
Livorno / Florence & Tuscany
Sorrento / Amalfi Coast
Naples
Cagliari / Sardinia
Syracuse / Sicily
Bari / Puglia & Matera
Ancona / Le Marche & Urbino
Ravenna / Bologna / Ferrara
Venice
LIVORNO
Best of Florence & Pisa – Duration: 8 Hours
This is one of our long-established private shore programs and remains the classic solution for the first-time visitor who wants to see Florence but cannot quite bring himself to sail past Pisa without photographing a building that has been falling over since the twelfth century.
Florence brings the great piazzas, churches and palaces, the Duomo and Michelangelo’s David.
Then comes Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli.
It is a substantial day.
Our principal concern is not the quality of the sightseeing.
It is geography.
Florence has enough art to occupy an educated person for approximately six months. Trying to “do Florence” between breakfast and afternoon tea is therefore an inherently optimistic undertaking.
For a first visit: worthwhile.
For a repeat visitor: stay in Tuscany and do something slower.
TUSCANY
Truffle Hunting in the Tuscan Hills
This is where things become more interesting.
Instead of another museum, A&K’s 2026 Italy program offers guests the opportunity to head into the Tuscan countryside for a truffle hunt.
We approve.
There comes a moment in every sophisticated traveler’s life when seeing another fifteenth-century altarpiece becomes marginally less appealing than following a dog through Tuscany looking for lunch.
SORRENTO
The Amalfi Coast by Private Yacht & Winery Lunch – 6-8 hours
Now we’re talking.
Guests cruise along the Amalfi Coast by yacht before coming ashore for a private lunch at a local winery.
This addresses one of the fundamental problems with visiting the Amalfi Coast from a cruise ship: The road.
It is beautiful.
Everyone knows it is beautiful. Unfortunately, everyone else has apparently decided to drive on it on precisely the same day.
Seeing the coastline from the water changes the experience entirely.
This is exactly the sort of excursion for which we believe clients will appreciate our partnering with A&K.
SORRENTO
Vesuvius Wine Country & Villa Poppea
An intelligent alternative to simply marching through Pompeii with several thousand new acquaintances.
A&K takes guests into the volcanic wine country surrounding Vesuvius for a tasting before visiting the extraordinarily preserved frescoes and mosaics of Villa Poppea.
Wine grown in volcanic soil followed by Roman decadence.
Italy has been combining these two subjects successfully for roughly two thousand years.
Our choice for intellectually curious repeat visitors.
SORRENTO
Mozzarella, Limoncello & Olive Oil
This alternative visits a working dairy farm specializing in three subjects about which southern Italians have rather strong opinions:
Mozzarella.
Limoncello.
Olive oil.
This is not merely lunch disguised as an excursion.
Agriculture and food production are among the best ways to understand Campania, particularly for travelers who have already seen Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.
There is also considerably less danger of developing cathedral fatigue.
SYRACUSE, SICILY
Ortigia, Market & Sicilian Wine
Ortigia is one of those rare cruise destinations where walking is actually preferable to being driven anywhere.
Our private tour explores the old city—its narrow streets, boutiques, ancient buildings and Temple of Apollo—before turning to the local market and Sicilian wines.
This is exactly how Syracuse should be experienced.
Slowly. Preferably while eating something.
SYRACUSE
Sicilian Truffle Hunt – 6-8 Hours
Yes, another truffle hunt.
We have no objection.
It is difficult to imagine a meeting at A&K headquarters at which someone said:
“We’re simply offering clients too many opportunities to spend the afternoon on a Sicilian farm looking for truffles.”
SYRACUSE
Greek & Roman Neapolis
For our special guests who actually came to Sicily for history rather than lunch, A&K offers the extraordinary archaeological remains at Neapolis.
This is ancient Syracuse—the city Cicero considered among the greatest and most beautiful in the Greek world.
For first-time visitors with a serious interest in antiquity, this may be the correct choice.
RAVENNA
Byzantine Mosaics — Before-Hours Access
This is precisely the phrase we like to see: Before-hours access.
Luxury sightseeing is not primarily about leather seats.
It is about standing somewhere extraordinary before everybody else arrives.
Our exclusive program provides special early access to Ravenna’s Byzantine mosaics at the Domus of the Stone Carpets.
Ravenna possesses some of the world’s great surviving early Christian and Byzantine art.
Seeing it without several tour groups standing directly in front of it strikes us as an excellent use of money.
RAVENNA TO BOLOGNA
Market Visit & Pasta-Making
Bologna is arguably Italy’s most important food city. This statement will cause people in several other Italian cities to become visibly agitated.
Good.
Our C&T/A&K program combines a visit to the market with a hands-on pasta-making experience.
For clients who have already visited Ravenna’s mosaics, this may be the day’s most enjoyable alternative.
Go light on breakfast aboard ship this morning.
RAVENNA
Ducati Factory
And then there is Ducati.
While everyone else is discussing Byzantine mosaics, A&K will apparently take interested guests to see where Italians manufacture motorcycles capable of converting otherwise sensible middle-aged men into seventeen-year-olds.
This is an inspired alternative.
Not everyone needs another church.
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE: THE CHURCHILL & TUREN LTD.
ABERCROMBIE & KENT
ITALIAN COLLECTION
PRIVATE TOURING FOR GUESTS OF EUROPE’S TOP-RATED CRUISE LINES
Bari — Polignano a Mare & Monopoli — 6 hours
Bari — Ancient Matera — 8 hours
Bari — Locorotondo & Alberobello — 8 hours
Bari — Highlights of Puglia & Cheese Tasting — 8 hours
Civitavecchia — Imperial Rome & Vatican City — 8 hours
Civitavecchia — Rome for Repeat Visitors — 8 hours
Civitavecchia — Gastronomic Rome & Time at Leisure — 8 hours
Livorno — The City of Florence — 6 hours
Livorno — Chianti Countryside & Wine Tasting — 8 hours
Livorno — Best of Florence & Pisa — 8 hours
Naples — The City of Naples — 8 hours
Naples — Baroque Splendors of Naples — 4 hours
Naples — Historic Pompeii & Vesuvius — 8 hours
Naples — Vespa Tour — 4 hours
Naples — Food Tour of Naples — 4 hours
Portovenere / La Spezia — The Village of Portofino — 8 hours
Portovenere / La Spezia — Carrara Marble Quarries & Forte dei Marmi — 6 hours
Portovenere / La Spezia — Highlights of Pisa & Lucca — 6 hours
Portovenere / La Spezia — Picturesque Cinque Terre — 8 hours
Portovenere / La Spezia — Ligurian Delights: Pesto Class & Vermentino Wine — 6 hours
Ravenna — Byzantine Ravenna — 3 hours
Ravenna — Medieval & Gastronomic Bologna — 6 hours
Ravenna — Parma Through the Ages — 6 hours
Sorrento — Ancient Pompeii — 6 hours
Sorrento — Capri by Private Motorboat — 7 hours
Sorrento — Sorrento Countryside Delights — 4 hours
Venice — Lagoon Islands — 7 hours
Venice — Venice for Art Lovers — 4 hours
Venice — Roman City of Verona — 7 hours
Venice — Splendours of Venice & Lagoon Islands — 7 hours
Giardini Naxos / Taormina — Taormina & Castelmola — 4 hours
Giardini Naxos / Taormina — Catania & Piazza Armerina — 8 hours
Giardini Naxos / Taormina — Mount Etna Off-Road & Wine Tour — 8 hours
Palermo — The City of Palermo — 4 hours
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLE FOR ITALY
The first-time visitor may need to see the Colosseum, Florence, Pompeii and St. Mark’s.
We understand.
But the experienced traveler has earned something better.
A truffle hunt.
A private yacht.
A vineyard under Vesuvius.
Pasta in Bologna.
Byzantine mosaics before the doors open.
Perhaps even a Ducati.
Italy does not become more interesting the more things you see.
It becomes more interesting when you finally stop trying to see everything.
PRESENTING OUR UNIQUE CATALOG OF EXCLUSIVELY PRIVATE TWO AND THREE-NIGHT PRE AND POST CRUISE OPTIONS IN ITALY
ROME
COOKING AND CONQUERING ROME – OUR EXCLUSIVE INSIDER EXPERIENCE PRE/POST CRUISE TWO-NIGHT PRE/POST STAY IN ROME
Day 1
Upon arrival, meet your English-speaking private driver as you pass through customs for your private transfer to your hotel. Settle into your Deluxe Room at the Hotel de la Russie (or similar)
This evening enjoy an early dinner at Trattoria Tritone (on a direct payment basis). The friendly, relaxed atmosphere and stellar service make the Trattoria a dining experience you won’t soon forget. The Trattoria itself is quite charming and enjoys a wonderful collection of antiquities. The wine list is varied and full of the most important and prestigious Italian wines, as well as the good, lesser known wines, the waiters can give you some wonderful advice. Portions plentiful without being overwhelming and for those interested in Italian cooking techniques, enjoy watching your meal being prepared as the kitchen is in full view of the seating area. Located near the Trevi Fountain and Spanish steps, dress is casual.
Optional tour: After dinner explore Rome the way Romans – do in the saddle of Vintage Vespa with private driver. Your drivers will meet you at the restaurant as you embark on a journey to experience the ‘real’ Rome. Travel through the centuries without leaving the city limits and take in breathtaking views of Rome, a city that never fails to amaze! Stop along the way to enjoy Italian ice-cream. (Approximately 3 hours)
Return to your hotel.
Day 2
This morning explore the art of Italian cooking with Chef Andrea at Le Fate Restaurant, followed by lunch. For over a decade Chef Andrea has been using his talent and passion for cooking in his family’s restaurant. Now he shares his love of cooking with others by demonstrating how to prepare quintessential regional dishes from his home town of Rome, Italy. (Approximately 4 hours)
Continue on to enjoy a wonderful introduction to the Trastevere district of Rome with your local expert guide. In the late afternoons Trastevere’s maze of narrow cobbled alleyways comes to life as locals flock to its restaurants and clubs to enjoy themselves. Take in the modern vibe of the city while appreciating its artistic heritage. Cross the bridge Ponte Sisto built in 1474 linking Trastevere to central Rome stroll Vicolo del Piede, one of Rome’s most picturesque narrow streets lined with small cafes. Continue on past Piazza Belli and la Torre degli Anguillara, the only surviving medieval towers which once dominated the Trastevere skyline. See the Church of S. Maria di Trastevere, famous for its 12th century mosaics, the Fountain of the Piazza di Santa Maria di Trastevere created Carlo Fontana and the Casa della Fornarina where Raphael’s beautiful mistress is said to have stolen his heart all while surveying the plentitude of options for dinner this evening. (Approximately 3 hours)
With the help of your guide, select a restaurant to enjoy dinner at this evening (on a direct payment basis) before making your own way back to the hotel.
Day 3
After breakfast and the morning at your leisure to continue exploring Rome on your own, or indulging in the amenities offered by your hotel, you are met and transferred to Civitavecchia to embark on your cruise. (CACIB)
Price per person: On request – Approximately Euro 2200 Per Person
Accommodation included: Hotel de La Russie or similar – Deluxe Room category
YOUR TOUR IN ITALY INCLUDES:
- Sightseeing, entrance fees and classes mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation as noted
- Transfers specified in the itinerary
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- 24 hours Assistance during your trip
THE AUTHENTIC TASTE OF ROME – OUR EXCLUSIVE 3-NIGHT PRE/POST CRUISE PACKAGE
Day 1
Upon arrival, meet your English-speaking private driver as you pass through customs for your private transfer to your hotel. Settle into your Deluxe Room at the Hotel de la Russie.
This evening enjoy an early dinner at Trattoria Tritone (on a direct payment basis). The friendly, relaxed atmosphere and stellar service make the Trattoria a dining experience you won’t soon forget. The Trattoria itself is quite charming and enjoys a wonderful collection of antiquities. The wine list is varied and full of the most important and prestigious Italian wines, as well as the good, lesser known wines, the waiters can give you some wonderful advice. Portions plentiful without being overwhelming and for those interested in Italian cooking techniques, enjoy watching your meal being prepared as the kitchen is in full view of the seating area. Located near the Trevi Fountain and Spanish steps, dress is casual.
After dinner explore Rome the way Romans – do in the saddle of Vintage Vespa with private driver. Your drivers will meet you at the restaurant as you embark on a journey to experience the ‘real’ Rome. Travel through the centuries without leaving the city limits and take in breathtaking views of Rome, a city that never fails to amaze! Stop along the way to enjoy Italian ice-cream. (Approximately 3 hours)
Return to your hotel.
Day 2
This morning explore the art of Italian cooking with Chef Andrea at Le Fate Restaurant, followed by lunch. For over a decade Chef Andrea has been using his talent and passion for cooking in his family’s restaurant. Now he shares his love of cooking with others by demonstrating how to prepare quintessential regional dishes from his home town of Rome, Italy. (Approximately 4 hours)
Continue on to enjoy a wonderful introduction to the Trastevere district of Rome with your local expert guide. In the late afternoons Trastevere’s maze of narrow cobbled alleyways comes to life as locals flock to its restaurants and clubs to enjoy themselves. Take in the modern vibe of the city while appreciating its artistic heritage. Cross the bridge Ponte Sisto built in 1474 linking Trastevere to central Rome stroll Vicolo del Piede, one of Rome’s most picturesque narrow streets lined with small cafes. Continue on past Piazza Belli and la Torre degli Anguillara, the only surviving medieval towers which once dominated the Trastevere skyline. See the Church of S. Maria di Trastevere, famous for its 12th century mosaics, the Fountain of the Piazza di Santa Maria di Trastevere created Carlo Fontana and the Casa della Fornarina where Raphael’s beautiful mistress is said to have stolen his heart all while surveying the plentitude of options for dinner this evening. (Approximately 3 hours)
With the help of your guide, select a restaurant to enjoy dinner at this evening (not inc.) before making your own way back to the hotel.
Day 3
This morning begin your tour with a walk through the Jewish Ghetto as your guide shares with you its long history. Continue on to the bustling Campo de Fiori. Always a center for commerce, this lively market used to serve the Cardinals and Noblemen traveling between the Basilica of St. John Lateran and the Vatican. Today the area retains the same energetic atmosphere as yesteryear and it is here you will find the best fish in the city, fresh fruits and vegetables piled high, an array of spices, as well as kitchen utensils and tablecloths. A stop at the ‘Spice Man’s’ stall is must! As we walk back to the hotel feel the pulse of everyday life in the Eternal City, take a break to enjoy a tasty stop at Giolitti’s Ice Cream shop. (Approximately 3.5 hours)
Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.
Day 4
After breakfast and the morning at your leisure to continue exploring Rome on your own, or indulging in the amenities offered by your hotel, you are met and transferred to Civitavecchia to embark on your cruise. (ATR3B)
Estimated Price per person: 3284 EURO (based on 2 people traveling together)
Optional Vespa tour experience: Price per person: 280 EURO
Accommodation included: Hotel de La Minerve or similar – Deluxe Room category
YOUR TOUR IN ITALY INCLUDES:
- Sightseeing, entrance fees and classes mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation as noted
- Transfers specified in the itinerary
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- 24 hours Assistance during your trip
VENICE
THE CHURCHILL & TUREN VENICE ‘INSIDER’S WALK” Walking around Venice “Sestrieri” – Day Tour
This morning, meet your private English-speaking guide and private taxi for a half-day tour around the lesser-known part of Venice the sestriere (district) of Castello and Cannaregio.
Walking around this tranquil part of Venice you will see all the washing hanging out to dry on the line, and the children playing hide and seek; this is the part of Venice with the old ladies having a chat from the windows of opposite buildings.
During your tour of today you will discover the traditions of Venice: the carnival and the gondolas.
Every year Carnival of Venice alone attracts thousands of enthusiastic visitors from all over the world.
Today you will visit to Tessitura Bevilacqua*. For over a century, working on Luigi’s Bevilacqua silk looms, highly-skilled hands transform precious yarns into prestigious velvets, damasks and brocades destined to furnish Royal palaces, residences and theatres all over the world. During this privately-guided visit, you have special access to the atelier, where you can learn more about the history of this world-renowned textile company.
A tradition dating centuries, stories of gondoliers, romanticism and song, Gondolas are one of the strongest symbols of Venice.
At the end of your visit, continue on foot to the Squero (Gondola yard), where you have the opportunity to see the place where the typical Venetian boats are produced. Your guide will describe the history of Venetian gondolas through the centuries.
Continue to the heart of Venice, where you visit a highly reputable tailor’s shop* to watch the deft hands of expert tailors creating unique garments. Deep technical knowledge, respect for period cuts and fabrics, as well as the expertise of how to use them, guarantee an artistic product that makes these creations appreciated all over the world. Theatres, opera houses and film makers all know that they can rely on the Atelier Nicolao. Throughout the years, important Oscar-winning costume designers or nomination candidates from films such as ‘The Wings of the Dove’, ‘The Merchant of Venice’ and ‘Casanova’ have benefited from his expertise. You will receive a little cadeau at the end of your visit.
You will then be transferred by private water-taxi back to Hotel.
Price – To be determined based on date/time
INDULGENT VENICE – OUR 2-NIGHT PRE/POST CRUISE PROGRAM
Day 1
Upon arrival in Venice, make your way through customs and immigration at the arrivals area of the airport or port where you will meet your guide waiting for you with a sign noting your name. Enjoy your water taxi cruise to your hotel (booked directly) in this city of canals.
Note: Water Taxis hold up to 10 people and one piece of luggage per person. Excess luggage, prolonged wait times (exceeding 20 minutes) or additional fees due to deviations from the originally transportation request must be paid directly to the driver upon arrival at your destination.
This evening a dinner reservation has been made for you at Bistrot De Venise Restaurant for 8.00 p.m. (on a direct payment basis). Made famous for embracing the cuisine of the 14th century Venice Renaissance, ingredients used by the chef are simple, but fresh, local and very good. The atmosphere of the restaurant is comfortable, but trendy and it serves as an important meeting place for artists; poetry or literature meetings and art and photography exhibits are common. Enjoy the wide selection of Italian and regional wines.
Day 2
Cooking the Venetian Way on the Venice Lido.
Join Master Chef Marika Seguso in her home and share her passion for the art of Venetian cooking. Begin with an introduction to Venetian Cooking and learn some state of the art techniques. Marika is the co-founder of Acquolina, a successful catering company in New York City and contributor to the 2004 Food and Wine Cookbook. Enjoy this hands-on experience alongside this reknown chef in her historical Liberty Style Villa and elegant garden.
Learn to prepare a typical four course Italian meal, either meat or seafood based, as Marika provides you with an appreciation for the history of these dishes as well as an understanding of the importance of purchasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Marika will share with you many culinary secrets such as how to easily distinguish a fresh fish from a farm raised one and much more.
After indulging in the fruits of your labor, return to the mainland and enjoy a leisurely stroll through St. Marks District for a typically Italian coffee before returning to our hotel (approximately 4 hours).
No visit to Venice would be complete without experience the city’s traditional form of travel on a gondola. Late this afternoon explore the minor canals of the St. Marks District in true Venetian fashion. This gentle cruise will introduce you to some of Venice’s most beautiful minor canals.
Please allow us to make a dinner reservation for you this evening. Your guide can offer recommendations, or request a list of Recommended Restaurants for ideas.
Day 3
After breakfast and the morning at your leisure to continue exploring Venice on your own, or indulging in the amenities offered by your hotel, you are met and transferred to the airport or to the port to embark on your cruise. Please note: Departing from your hotel 3 hours prior to your flight’s departure time is recommended.
Price per person: Approx. EURO 720 Per Person (based on 2 people traveling together)
YOUR TOUR IN ITALY INCLUDES:
- Sightseeing, entrance fees and classes mentioned in the itinerary
- Transfers specified in the itinerary
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- 24 hours Assistance during your trip
VENICE FOR FOODIES AND LOVERS, OUR EXCLUSIVE 3-NIGHT PRE/POST CRUISE PACKAGE
Day 1
Upon arrival in Venice, make your way through customs and immigration at the arrivals area of the airport or port where you will meet your guide waiting for you with a sign noting your name. Enjoy your water taxi cruise to your hotel (booked directly) in this city of canals.
Note: Water Taxis hold up to 10 people and one piece of luggage per person. Excess luggage, prolonged wait times (exceeding 20 minutes) or additional fees due to deviations from the originally transportation request must be paid directly to the driver upon arrival at your destination.
This evening a dinner reservation has been made for you at Bistrot De Venise Restaurant for 8.00 p.m. (on a direct payment basis). Made famous for embracing the cuisine of the 14th century Venice Renaissance, ingredients used by the chef are simple, but fresh, local and very good. The atmosphere of the restaurant is comfortable, but trendy and it serves as an important meeting place for artists; poetry or literature meetings and art and photography exhibits are common. Enjoy the wide selection of Italian and regional wines.
Day 2
Cooking the Venetian Way on the Venice Lido…
Join Master Chef Marika Seguso in her home and share her passion for the art of Venetian cooking. Begin with an introduction to Venetian Cooking and learn some state of the art techniques. Marika is the co-founder of Acquolina, a successful catering company in New York City and contributor to the 2004 Food and Wine Cookbook. Enjoy this hands-on experience alongside this reknown chef in her historical Liberty Style Villa and elegant garden.
Learn to prepare a typical four course Italian meal, either meat or seafood based, as Marika provides you with an appreciation for the history of these dishes as well as an understanding of the importance of purchasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. Marika will share with you many culinary secrets such as how to easily distinguish a fresh fish from a farm raised one and much more.
After indulging in the fruits of your labor, return to the mainland and enjoy a leisurely stroll through St. Marks District for a typically Italian coffee before returning to our hotel (approximately 4 hours).
No visit to Venice would be complete without experience the city’s traditional form of travel on a gondola. Late this afternoon explore the minor canals of the St. Marks District in true Venetian fashion. This gentle cruise will introduce you to some of Venice’s most beautiful minor canals.
Please allow us to make a dinner reservation for you this evening. Your guide can offer recommendations, or request a list of Recommended Restaurants for ideas.
Day 3
Continue your exploration of Venice today with flamboyant and passionate chef and restaurateur Enrica Rocca. Meet Enrica at 10:00 a.m. at the foot of the Rialto Bridge to embark on a truly entertaining experience by her side. Begin with a coffee tasting at Antico Caffè del Doge, the most celebrated coffee shop in the city. Sample a variety of coffee blends from around the world as well as a few special creations including “Giacometto” – Paul Allen’s favorite – followed by Tiramisu.
Visit Rialto’s Fish and Vegetable Market, one of the oldest and most picturesque food markets in all of Europe. Reconnoiter the aisles stalls seeking out the more unique products sold between fresh produce. Feel the energy of the market come to life as locals negotiate for the best prices.
Cross over Rialto Bridge to visit Millevini, a small wine shop catering to the rich and famous. More than a thousand types of wine are in stock (hence the name) and gain insight from the owner’s explanation of some of the most important Italian wines while enjoying a Spritz, the classic Venetian drink with a cicchetto.
Day 4
After breakfast and the morning at your leisure to continue exploring Venice on your own, or indulging in the amenities offered by your hotel, you are met and transferred to the airport or to the port to embark on your cruise. Please note: Departing from your hotel 3 hours prior to your flight’s departure time is recommended.
Price per person: Approx. 1,935 EURO (based on 2 people traveling together)
YOUR TOUR IN ITALY INCLUDES:
- Sightseeing, entrance fees and classes mentioned in the itinerary
- Transfers specified in the itinerary
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- 24 hours Assistance during your trip