GOLDEN WEEK IN SOUTHERN ITALY:

For Women Only

OCTOBER 18-26, 2025
2 Spots Left – Reserve Today!

led by Author Susan Van Allen

After spending several days with Susan I came to realize her love for Italy is as deep as the Mediterranean, she is as warm as the sun that sets in Capri…
-Gale, Vermont

capri_susan_van_allen_pinkhat_Southern_Italy-Tour2015

Join Susan Van Allen, author of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go, for her most popular Golden Week. This is an inspiring adventure in southern Italy, based in a historic Sorrento hotel, where the elegant soul of Bell’Italia bursts forth, with the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop. Discover marvels of Capri, vibrant Naples, fascinating ancient ruins of Pompeii, blissful thermal springs of Ischia, and the magical Amalfi coast towns of Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi. Shop for artisan treasures, toast with robust local wine, and enjoy delicious, world-famous cuisine.

This is a Gift of La Dolce Vita=the Sweet Life, custom-designed for a small group experience (maximum 10) and led by Susan so that women can fully experience Italy’s rejuvenating pleasures.

View Sneak Peak

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Depart USA
Day 2: Welcome to Sorrento, with Cocktails and Dinner
Day 3: Fun Cooking Class in a Sorrento Family Villa
Day 4: Bliss out in a Thermal Park Spa and Beach on the island of Ischia
Day 5: Discover the treasures of Bella Napoli, pizza included
Day 6: Explore fascinating ruins of Pompeii / Positano at Sunset
Day 7: Delightful day in enchanting Capri
Day 8: Amalfi Coast Drive: Amazing Amalfi Spectacular Views from Ravello’s Gardens / Farewell Dinner
Day 9: Transfer to Naples for your Flight Home
OR stay an extra 4 nights for
Extra Golden Days on the Island of Ischia

October 18-26, 2025
$6490 per person / sharing a double room
$7490 per person / single room
$350 deposit to reserve
Final Payment due August 1, 2025
2 Spots Left
Small Group Tour – 10 guests max
TO RESERVE or for more information,
Contact Susan at
100placesinitaly@gmail.com


Read WHY these trips are ideal for Mother-Daughters / Aunts-Nieces





Full Itinerary:

*Itinerary subject to change. If because of weather or unforeseen circumstances changes need to be made, replacement events will be equally as awesome as above.

*Activity Level: Bring comfortable walking shoes! The historic centers of Naples and Capri are pedestrian only, and our time there will include some walking together to discover their treasures and time for you to go at your own pace–which may range from settling into a caffe to people watch or exploring further if you wish. Positano, nicknamed “The VeriticalTown”, because of all its steps, will be the most challenging workout. Touring Pompeii involves walking along uneven, rocky pathways–you can opt for the 1.5 hour tour there or continue on for a total 2.5 hour tour. There are also ferry rides to Naples, Capri, and Ischia, as well  as a smaller boat excursion to Capri’s Blue Grotto, which require those with motion sickness to take precautions.

What’s Included:

  • Entertaining hosting by author Susan Van Allen, focusing on Italy’s celebration of all things female
  • 7 nights at 4-star Hotel Imperial Tramontano in Sorrento, in rooms with garden views
  • Transportation by private minibus, including roundtrip transfers to/from Naples airport or train station
  • Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel
  • 3 multi-course dinners, with wine
  • 1 cooking class followed by lunch
  • 1 pizza lunch in Naples
  • Guided tours of Capri, Naples Historic Center, Archaeological Museum, Santa Chiara Cloisters, and Ancient Ruins of Pompeii, with whisper headsets
  • Private boat excursion to Capri’s Blue Grotto
  • Thermal park entrance fees in Ischia, with access to 22 warm pools, sauna, private beach, and restaurants
  • Entrance fees to museums and Pompeii
  • Sunset visit to Positano, with seaside dinner
  • Visit to Ravello’s Villa Cimbrone or Villa Rufolo Gardens
  • Visit to Amalfi
  • Gratuities for all group activities, to guides and service providers
  • Travel Journal
  • Pre-Trip Booklet with packing list and other helpful information
  • Charitable donation of $25.00 to the Pompeii Sustainable Preservation Project to support the excavation work of this historic treasure

What’s Not Included:

  • Airfare
  • Meals not specified in itinerary
  • Spa treatments, such as massages or facials
  • Everything not mentioned under “What’s Included”
capri_susan_van_allen_Tour_Italy2015

La Dolce Vita!

Perfection! You gave us just want you promised and then some.
–Diana, Oregon

Women Travel Italy, Italy Travel, Italy Tours

The week is expertly designed and hosted by Susan Van Allen, with a balance of planned group and free-time independent experiences.

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A Toast to Golden Weeks

Barbara, North Carolina

Loved

“Loved every minute.”

Southern Italy
Diane, South Carolina

Wonderful Week

“What a wonderful week. Susan’s attention to detail, expertise and genuine love for Italy was infectious and made the week so special. We made new friends and had amazing experiences.”

Southern Italy
Maureen, New Jersey

Wonderful

“My Golden Week experience was wonderful…more than I had anticipated. Everything was so well planned, including all of my transportation arrangements. Susan helped to make our experience pleasurable as well as memorable. I would recommend this tour to anyone looking for a cultural experience while the enjoying the full flavor of Italy.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Helena, New York

Trip Extraordinary

“Susan Van Allen is amazing, she went above and beyond to make this trip extraordinary.”

Southern Italy
Sheri, Texas

Fantastic

This was my first time in Italy, and the sites, activities and food were fantastic. The tour guides were incredibly knowledgeable. I would definitely take other trips with Susan — Bravo!

Yvette, Virginia

Super Experience

“All in all, a super experience.”

Southern Italy
Julie, Canada

Loved Our Golden Week

“I loved our Golden Week! Susan goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is having a good time and does her best to accommodate every need however necessary. The group size is ideal and having Fiorella as our guide was excellent. I hope to do another tour with Susan and would not hesitate to recommend these tours to friends.”

Southern Italy
Gayle, Arizona

Feast For Our Senses

“I absolutely adored every enthralling, enlightening aspect of my Golden Week experience in Tuscany–a glorious time of female bonding and fun, as well as a feast of our senses absorbing it all!”

Tuscany
Peggy, Ontario, Canada

Personal Service

“Love the personal service all along the way…Susan takes us all on a journey that brings every aspect of Italy to life!”

Italian Riviera & Florence
Pamela, Boston

Exceptional

I’ve been to Venice many times and wanted to experience it again on this trip with my sister. Susan created an exceptional itinerary that gave me a deeper, insiders’ experience of Venice — meeting her friends, including chefs, artisans, and a passionate local guide. The baroque hotel and private boat rides added to the beautiful fun.

Deb, New Jersey

Surpasses My Expectations

“My week far surpassed my expectations. I can’t imagine a more beautiful place to visit and will definitely go back. The group was wonderful. Susan was terrific and I had tears in my eyes saying goodbye to Fiorella. A truly wonderful experience for me.”

Southern Italy
Mickey, Massachusetts

My Dream Vacation

This has been my dream vacation. Susan Van Allen is the most thoughtful, caring and warm individual. She made all of us feel at home and was there to assist us in every way. I cannot praise her enough.

Tina, Colorado

Exceeded Expectations

“Susan exceeded my expectations! Would love to tour with her (and the ladies) again!”

Italian Lakes
Debbie, Connecticut

Thoughtful Planning

“Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable trip. The tour far exceeded my expectations and that was primarily due to your thoughtful planning and meticulous execution. You took care of every detail and I just loved that you made sure everyone was always taken care of. The women on the trip were all lovely and, of course, that added to the positive experience.”

Southern Italy
Rita, Florida

Amazing

“Amazing…All my passions were enlightened at each breathtaking step…I recommend it highly.”

Tuscany
Janice, Massachusetts

Incredible Planning and Attention to Detail

I thought the trip was fabulous! Susan’s planning and attention to detail were incredible. Her desire to help each of us feel welcome, included, and safe was evident in everything she did.
I also appreciated the choice of places and activities that would appeal to women, including opportunities to shop. Each of the restaurants was excellent and the choice of menu for our meals together was varied and delicious.

While I really enjoyed all the sites and the fabulous guides that you hired, what I valued most was my times at meals and walking and talking with all the wonderful women whose company I so enjoyed.
The plate that I painted has a place of honor in my home as it reminds me of all the fun we had. And I love wearing the gloves and the jewelry that I purchased. Thank you so much for taking me shopping! I loved the trip.

Sheree, West Virginia

Best Travel Guide Ever

“Susan Van Allen is the BEST Travel Guide ever! Her expertise and knowledge was the key to everything! Susan takes you to places you would never find on your own! I would absolutely refer her to anyone! And I myself would travel with her again!”

Joyce, Virginia

Amazing

Susan is an amazing guide, and by the end of the week she is a good friend. I believe I would follow her anywhere. She sees to the needs of each person with care and makes sure that nothing is overlooked. She provides the best kind of unique travel experience. Sign me up for another!

Ellen, Montana

Great Trip

Great trip led by Susan! The group of women were diverse and fun to be with. We had a lot of laughter!

Liz, New Jersey

Love Traveling With Her

“It doesn’t get any better than traveling with Susan Van Allen. Her choices and talents are so appreciated. She goes out of her way for each of the guests personal needs. I love traveling with her and feel very spoiled now to travel with anyone else.”

Venice
Rebecca, Oklahoma

Experience of a Lifetime

“This has been an Experience of a Lifetime!!! Susan’s knowledge, her previous experience, and most especially the relationships that she has developed in Italy are priceless and invaluable to the overall exceptional experience!! I Highly Highly Recommend Golden Week!”

Southern Italy
Denise, New York

Wonderful/Awesome Experience

“Susan Van Allen made my first trip to Europe a wonderful/awesome experience. She had everything planned out to the smallest of details. I didn’t have to think or worry about anything because everything was done for me. I can now say that I am spoiled for all future trips. I cannot wait to take another trip with her.”

Venice
Helen, California

Designed By An Artist

“This trip was clearly designed by an artist–everything flowed along beautifully, a delicious transformational experience of La Dolce Vita!”

Tuscany
Lisa, Florida

Great trip!

Susan did an excellent job planning and executing the trip. Her extensive knowledge of the area and the people made this a memorable experience. Susan provided us with very knowledgeable local guides that enriched our experience. We also had plenty of time to do some exploring on our own. This was a great trip.”

Kim, Connecticut

Fantastic!

Susan Van Allen was fantastic! Loved every day on the tour! Thank you!!!

Diana, Oregon

Perfection

“Perfection! You gave us what you promised and then some. I think the biggest compliment was that I didn’t want to leave”

Southern Italy
Gail, Toronto, Canada

Five-Star – Inspiring!

This was my fifth trip to Italy travelling independently and with other companies and by far the most memorable. Susan sets the bar high for other companies to come up to. It’s five-star all the way from accommodation to meals to outings with guides. Her joy and love of adventure are inspiring! Read her book!

Patti, Massachusetts

Extraordinary

This is an extraordinary tour. You feel like a privileged Venetian insider when you spend a Golden Week in Venice with Susan Van Allen, visiting both the must-see sights and the hidden treasures of this beautiful city. And Susan, an extraordinary guide, makes everyone feel relaxed, as she shares her love and deep knowledge of Italy with the group.

Homa, Maryland

Amazing!

This was my first tour and I was a little worried. But this trip was soooooo good and I am going to book Sicily in 2024. Our group was amazing! Fun fun fun!

Gale, Vermont

Warm As The Sun

“After spending several days with Susan I came to realize her love for Italy is as deep as the Mediterranean, she is as warm as the sun that sets in Capri…”

Southern Italy
Jan, Montana

Loved every minute!

Loved every minute!

Cynthia, Mississippi

Love

“Italians really know how to enjoy life. I would love to do this once a year!”

Tuscany
Rene, New York

Renewed My Spirit

“The trip renewed my spirit on so many levels…Susan was a wonderful tour host.”

Florence
Liz, New Jersey

Excellent Trip

“The Golden Week in Santa Margherita Ligure was terrific. Susan put an excellent trip together, filled with many interesting tours seasoned with a variety that everyone would enjoy. Her shopping, dining, and other recommendations were always to perfection. It was like we all become a family during our stay.”

Italian Riviera
Lynda, Massachusetts

Humor, Knowledge and Surprises

“Susan’s humor, knowledge and surprises really made this vacation one of my very favorites!”

Tuscany
Dee, New York

Awesome, as Always

“Awesome, as always! (Venice 2018)
I’d go on vacation with Susan anytime. She really works hard to make sure everyone is safe and having a good time. The food, the shopping… wish I was still there.”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Kay, Chicago

Changed My Life

“Dear Susan, Your zest for Italy and life and independence for women traveling, changed my life and led me onto more amazing travels and new friendships world wide!!”

Southern Italy & Italian Riviera
Mary, Florida

The Best

“Susan was just the best. She did a super job. I look forward to taking another trip with her.”

Southern Italy
Edie, Pennsylvania

Spectacular

“Dear Susan, My compliments to you on our tour of Southern Italy. Your knowledge of Southern Italy, your gifts, meals, just you Susan, you planned it well. The tour was nothing short of spectacular!! You are the Jewel  of Southern Italy.”

Southern Italy
Christina, Massachusetts

Trip of a Lifetime

“Susan Van Allen infuses her tours with enthusiasm, engagement and enchantment! She is exceptional in her knowledge of the areas we visited and ensured we felt both part of a group yet individually independent. We had the trip of a lifetime last year, (Florence 2016), and this year was even better!!!! Hard to believe our first experience could be topped, but since it was—already saving up for the next trip with Susan!!!!”

Italian Riviera and Florence
Denise, New Jersey

One in a Million

Susan Van Allen is truly “One in a Million”!! Susan puts her all into designing the most creative itineraries with exceptional attention to every detail. She cares so much about her clients’ individual needs and makes every woman feel like an Italian Princess. Warm, Caring, Funny, Intelligent… a true expert on everything Italy. My Mother and I have taken two trips with her so far and cannot express how much we loved everything about them! I would recommend Susan to everyone who wants the best experience of Italy and to have those memories to cherish forever.

Beth, New York

Wonderful!

This trip was unlike any trip I’ve ever been on. From the booklet that Susan sent prior to the trip to our daily text messages, everything was organized and well-planned — plus Susan kept us informed every step of the way. Even when the weather upended our plans, Susan pivoted and provided wonderful alternatives. Being able to stay in one hotel — and what a wonderful hotel it was! — provided us with a familiar home base from which to set out on our daily adventures.

But the best was spending a week in the company of a group of compatible women — we came from different backgrounds and perspectives but we blended into a group of women who enjoyed each others’ company. Plus, it was a perfect number of travelers — not too many and not too few. Thank you, Susan, for creating this experience and for such great memories! I hope I can join you on another trip in the future!

Joyce, Virginia

Wonderful Trip

“What a wonderful trip. Susan made it all so enjoyable and fun – and always with the exclamation point to finish each day. Our group managed to mesh very well. It is always nice to let people go at their own pace.”

Florence

Ready to Experience La Dolce Vita?

Say YES to this Adventure TODAY!
Space is limited and this tour Sells Out.

In Collaboration with PERILLO TOURS, America’s Leading Tour Operator to Italy for over 70 years.

Contact Info:

TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE FOR GOLDEN WEEKS, or for more information, contact Susan at 100placesinitaly@gmail.com

Would you like me to custom-design a Golden Week in Italy for you and your family or friends?

Italy Vacations can also arrange for early arrivals or later departures, at hotels in Sorrento, Naples, or other locations in Italy — Just ask when signing up!