Compare 5 Days Oman Adventure from Muscat by Tourboks vs Rome,Florence, Cinque Terre, Rome: by train in 4* by Meet and Greet

DAY 1: SATURDAY – MUSCAT - ARRIVAL

Arrival at Muscat International airport, after visa (55$ payable on arrival for most nationalities) and immigration formalities our representative will meet and escort the guests to waiting air-conditioned vehicle for transfer to hotel. Overnight in Muscat. Dinner is free.



DAY 2: SUNDAY – MUSCAT (70KM)

Breakfast at your hotel. Join at 09.30 am to start the tour of Muscat. Drive through the beautiful embassy quarter, to reach the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque that has a remarkable architectural achievement. As a contemporary place of worship, it serves as a spiritual landmark for modern Oman, projecting the values and aspirations of the Omani people. As an edifice, it maintains a perfect balance between aesthetics, culture and deeply rooted Islamic tradition. After the visit to the mosque we continue to Bait Baranda museum, which showcase the history of Muscat. Lunch will be served in the city. After lunch, we will visit Old Muscat, surrounded by steep mountains and flanked by twin 16thcentury forts ‘Jalali’ & ‘Mirani’, also see the Al Alam Palace, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’ residence. We will then proceed to Bait Al Zubair Museum. Bait Al Zubair is itself a part of Muscat heritage. Sheikh Al Zubair who served three former Sultans, founded the house in 1914 and his son Mohammad Al Zubair opened it as a museum in 1998. Its carved doors open into a fortress style reception. The museum includes traditional Omani weaponry, jewelry, costumes, domestic utensils and recreated urban and rural environments. Then drive through the scenic beauty of the corniche, stop at Muttrah - the main port & commercial center, and explore the colorful historic souk. This is a real souk with winding alleys and backstreets and stalls selling all manner of textiles, jewelry, traditional Omani perfumes (bukhoor - made of frankincense), souvenirs and antiques… After that long tour, we will drive back to the hotel. Dinner is at a traditional oriental restaurant, where the smells of grilled meats and of burned apples and roses going out from the “shisha’s” will only confirm the relaxing atmosphere that the OMANI people enjoy. Overnight in Muscat.



DAY 3: MONDAY -MUSCAT -SUR- WAHIBA (340KM)

After breakfast depart for a great adventure trip. Our first stop will be Quriyat, a small fishing village, we will proceed for a real fun – drive through one of the most thrilling sections of Oman's 1,700 KM coastline. Visit the famous Sinkhole, a part of a collapsed mountain filled with sea water then continue driving on the graded road via Fins. Continue your journey and photo stop at TIWI and Wadi Shab. We will continue to Sur, a sea-faring town and a trading port bustling with activity throughout the year. Famed for the fascinating architecture of its old town and shipyards where traditional dhows have been built for centuries at the edge of the bay. Lunch upon arrival in Sur. After a quick tour of Sur, we will continue the coastal road passing through high cliffs and small fishing villages. We will reach at the end of the afternoon the desert of Wahiba Sands – one of the most fascinating and mysterious regions of Oman. We will board 4x4 vehicles and start the adventure in the desert. The vast, ever shifting dunes support an astonishing variety of wildlife and host different kinds of flora and fauna. The quick changing patterns of the dunes are a photographer’s delight. The Wahiba is also home to a few thousand Bedouins, who are known to have inhabited this inhospitable region for at least 7000 years. We will do some dunes bashing as our experienced drivers show their skill on the dune drive which is a thrilling experience. Dinner in the camp with a real desert atmosphere & Overnight in Wahiba Sands.



DAY 4: TUESDAY- WAHIBA SANDS – NIZWA (200KM)

After breakfast, we will enjoy for the last time the desert and its secrets, before we board our 4x4 to return to normal civilization. We will then depart to Wadi Bani Khalid – a lush green valley surrounded by rugged mountains. We will enjoy an incredible view and a chance to capture the scenic beauty with the cameras. We will walk in the wadi to investigate the surrounding area on foot. Departure to NIZWA around noon, we will stop on our way for lunch. After lunch, we will continue to Nizwa, a great city with a great history. On arrival in NIZWA after approximately 2-3 hours, we will start our exploration of Nizwa area by proceeding to the palm groves of Al Hamra. Al Hamra, is also noted for its extraordinary ancient mud houses. We will visit one of oldest house of Sheikh “Bait Al Safa”, which has been restored, decorated and transformed into a lively museum. Check in the hotel. Dinner. Overnight in NIZWA.



DAY 5: WEDNESDAY - NIZWA- MUSCAT– DEPARTURE (250KM)

After breakfast, we will continue the visit of Nizwa. Castles are Oman’s most striking cultural landmarks and together with its towers and city walls, they have historically been used as defensive bastion look-out points. It is estimated that there are over 500 Castles and towers in Oman, our visit today will include a few of them which are more remarkable & striking in their architecture & style. The ancient capital of Oman, Nizwa was a seat of learning and the birthplace of Islam in Oman. The 17th century souq famous for the silver jewelry are the major attraction of Nizwa, not to mention the popular & interesting cattle auction, which takes place on every Friday. Built on a scold base of rock, the huge tower was designed to with stand the vibration of 24 cannons Lunch in Nizwa before we move on to Bahla famous for its handmade pottery. Bahla is listed in UNESCO world heritage sites & visit Bahla Fort. We will continue to visit the famous Jabreen Castle, built as a defensive stronghold, The Jabreen is perhaps the finest of Omani castles. The castle has dungeons, passages, rooms and ceilings decorated with fine carvings & paintings. After the visit, we will proceed to MUSCAT, the Capital. Evening transfer to Muscat Airport for the departure flight.



Your Hotel accommodation planned for this trip:

* Muscat: City Seasons 4* (excellent value or similar)

* Nizwa: Golden Tulip 4* (excellent value or similar)

* Wahiba: Arabian Oryx 4* (excellent value or similar)

Day 1 - Rome

Make your way and check-in at your high-quality 4* hotel personally selected by our staff. Today’s time at leisure will give you the freedom to do whatever you want. We suggest starting exploring the city to familiarize yourself with it and delve into its atmosphere. Rome is an open-air museum, you will be impressed by the stunning beauty of its many squares, churches, and fountains as well as by the ancient Roma ruins. Also, you may choose between the many activities offered by us. We have a lot of ideas and proposals, just let us know what you want to do and we'll take care of everything!

Day 2 - Rome

After breakfast, it is time to discover the secrets of Rome, but who knows better than you what you would personally like to explore? You can choose among the following alternatives, only high-quality small group tours for a maximum of 20 participants operated by a qualified crew of selected licensed local guides:

* Rome walk of ages: a walk along 2000 years of history (starting time 9.00 am, duration 3 hours) Take an unforgettable promenade through the delightful ""centro storico"", the historic city center, a lively maze of picturesque flowered cobblestone streets and shop-lined alleys which lead to gorgeous squares, the famed Roman piazzas, and landmarks. Discover it all, including viewings of the Roman forum and the Colosseum, the beautiful Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the most impressive and best preserved ancient Roman building, archetype of modern architecture. Enjoy then a flavorful espresso at the Italian Senators’ preferred coffee shop, right next door to the Senate building, before walking to Piazza Navona, the quintessential Roman piazza.

* Rome by the throat: a deliciously cultural tour for foodies (starting time: 10.00 am and 4.00 pm, duration 3 hours). Discover the Eternal City using your senses, dive into the local gastronomic heritage and taste traditional specialties during a wondrous ""Food Quest"" through two of the most charming districts of Rome. Start with the famous “Espresso e Cornetto” in Rome and learn the Italian tradition behind il caffè, “brown gold”. Stroll through the streets of the historic Trastevere district, and Campo de’ Fiori, and let your guide lead you to the ancient fornai (bakeries) and botteghe (local delis), browse through the shops, lose yourself among aromas and sensational flavors: your Food Tour in Rome, includes signature snacks, like scrumptious pizza bianca romana, crispy fragrant ciambelline al vino, supplì, and much more.

* Discovering Imperial Rome: Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum (starting time: 10.00 am and 15.00 pm). Skip the line and discover the secrets of the most famous monument in the world: the Colosseum - an icon of Rome! Your history-loving guide will take you on a journey through time as they tell you the ancient stories of the exciting and violent events that took place here. After departing from the Colosseum, you will visit its surrounding ruins including the Palatine Hill with the Roman Forum archeological area. From above Palatine Hill, make sure you have your camera ready! You will be able to find amazing, panoramic views over the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus - these are worth a trip to Italy alone!

* Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel guided tour (starting time 10.30 am and 15.30, duration 3 hours). Learn how to make real Italian food in a “hands-on cooking” class and take back with you a piece of Italian food tradition! If you love Italian food you won't miss the chance to learn how to make the most famous Italian dish: Pizza, from an authentic Neapolitan Pizzaiolo! Led by a professional Italian pizzaiolo, the cooking class will be held in a typical Pizzeria, set in one of the most beautiful Roman areas. Using real fresh ingredients; tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and much more, you will learn how to prepare an authentic Italian pizza, in an easy and super fun way!

Day 3 - Rome to Florence

After breakfast, make your way to the train station and board your high-speed train to Florence. Check what platform is yours on boards, searching by train number; you will be in Florence in only 2 hours. Make your way and check in at your high quality 4* hotel personally selected by our staff. All our partner hotels are well located so that you would easily move to visit the city by walk or using public transportation. Furthermore, they have been selected by us for their quality standards, in order to offer the most pleasant stay to our travelers. A whole day at leisure. Stroll the historic city center of Florence, which is very small and easy to walk around. In a short walk you'll meet lots of attractions like the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria with the Loggia dei Lanzi and Ponte Vecchio. Treat yourself with some local specialties like a juicy Fiorentina steak and great red wine.

Day 6 - Florence

After breakfast it is time to discover the Capital of The Renaissance but who knows better than you what you would personally like to explore? You can choose among the following alternatives, only high-quality small group tours for a maximum of 20 participants operated by a qualified crew of selected licensed local guides:

* Florence Panoramic city tour to Michelangelo square, Fiesole and Accademia Gallery with priority (starting time 8.30 am, duration 3 h 45 min)* Begin your day of discovery with two of the most beautiful and romantic spots in the world: Piazzale Michelangelo and Fiesole, where your guide will point out the main monuments of the city from these magnificent panoramic terraces: the unmistakable Brunelleschi's Cupola, Palazzo Vecchio, and much more... Then you plunge into the city itself! Your first stop is the Accademia Gallery, famous for Michelangelo’s, “David” sculpture. The tour ends with a stroll through the historic streets of the city to arrive in Piazza Duomo, where you will see from the outside the impressive Duomo, the Giotto’s bell tower and the baptistry. *(Not available on Mondays)

* Small-Group Uffizi Masterclass by an Art Expert (starting time 3:00 pm, duration 3,5 hours) *

Learn, explore and capture the essence of artistic talent and enchantment with an exclusive brand-new Florencetown experience: a unique Masterclass in the Uffizi of Florence with an Art Expert! Learn about Florence's history, discover the secrets of the Vasari Corridor, the Medici family's secret aerial passageway, and discover the true beauty and creative talent encompassed in the Florence Uffizi collection. From Leonardo's genius and Giotto's one-of-a-kind touches, to Botticelli's magical flower-filled "Primavera" and striking "Venere", you will enjoy the rare privilege of diving into each work of art, grasping its meaning and seeing it come to life for your eyes only.*(Not available on Mondays)

* Pizza and Gelato Making (starting time 6:00 pm, duration 3 hours) Learn to master the most delicious of all Italian arts from the pros. Discover the tricks of the trade and make authentic, genuine pizza and gelato! Our expert "pizzaiolo", he will illustrate, and demonstrate, the secrets which lie behind picture-perfect, scrumptious pizza. During this pizza course in Florence our chef will show you how to make pliable paper-thin yeast dough, kneading it to perfection. He will give you tips on how to prepare a zesty, yet light tomato sauce to spread on top. Then hear all about the history and tradition of Italian ice-cream. Discover the raw ingredients, learn where the best are produced and what natural colors can be used from our entertaining and knowledgeable chef. You'll get to know about the heating and freezing techniques, and, of course, give your taste buds a real treat tasting exquisite artisan-made gelato.

* Walk in Florence and then meet David (starting time: 10.00 am, duration 4,5 hours including free time)* Our guide will take you to some of the most important spots where the greatest minds and artists have stood and been inspired: Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo, the Baptistery, Santa Trinita and Orsanmichele Church, Pontevecchio Bridge, the secret Vasari Corridor and much much more.Then enter the Accademia Gallery museum with a fast-track priority entrance ticket and discover the original Michelangelo's masterpiece that has become the symbol of Renaissance splendour. The David. Admire also Michelangelo's famously unfinished sculptures - Prigioni and San Matteo. *(Not available on Mondays)

Day 5 - Florence to Cinque Terre

After breakfast, proceed on your own to the Florence train station to take regional train to Pisa. Once arrived at the Pisa Central Station leave your luggage at the luggage deposit in front of the station (reservation and cost are included) and discover on your own Campo dei Miracoli (the Square of Miracles in English) and the Leaning Tower of Pisa undeniably one of the world’s most recognizable structures. Once done, make your way back to Pisa Central Station to catch your train to La Spezia / Cinque Terre; If you don’t want to visit Pisa to arrive in La Spezia / Cinque Terre as early as possible, just let us now and you will simply have to stay on board of your morning train from Florence. Make your way and check in at your high quality 4* hotel personally selected by our staff

Day 6 - Cinque Terre

After breakfast take advantage of your 5 Terre Trekking and Train Card to reach the enchanted area of Cinque Terre, where colorful villages are embedded among the rocks like pearls in a jewel, Italy. The card allows you to make an unlimited number of trips by rail to fully enjoy the Cinque Terre and offers you following services: Access to the Park area Guided tours according to schedule, Poetic Naturalist Routes Eugenio Montale and Cinque Terre Literary Park according to schedule, bus service operated by ATC within the villages, free use of pay toilets in the Municipalities of Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Monterosso, WI-FI internet navigation in the Park’s Hot Spots. Overnight at your 4* hotel.

Day 7 - Cinque Terre to Rome

After breakfast, make your way to the train station and board your train to Rome. Check what platform is yours on boards, searching by train number; you will be in Rome in 4 hours. Make your way and check in at your high quality 4* hotel personally selected by our staff. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 8 - Rome: end of the services

After breakfast, end of services. Feel free to add some extra nights or a private transfer to reach the next airport or railway station for your return.