Opera & Art in Southern Italy
Opera & Art in Southern Italy
6–18 OCTOBER 2026 (13 DAYS) | FIVE PERFORMANCES, INSIGHTFUL TALKS AND GUIDED TOURS OF THE ART AND HISTORY OF PALERMO, NAPLES AND ROME
Attend five performances in the historic houses of Teatro Massimo in Palermo, Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, and Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, and enjoy the delights of art, architecture and history in each of these incredible cities. Take in the beautiful southern Italian countryside as we enjoy day trips to awe-inspiring palaces, cathedrals and ancient Roman towns, relax in exquisite accommodation and sample delicious Italian cuisine.
LOYALTY CLUB PRICE: AUD$16,387.50
Single supplement: AUD$4,350
Deposit payment 1: Deposit AUD$1,500 per person (due at time of booking)
Deposit payment 2: Deposit AUD$1,500 per person (due on 5 May 2026)
Final payment due: 3 August 2026
tour leader
Overview
Overview
Premium seats to a ballet performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty at Teatro Massimo.
Premium seats to a performance of Handel’s Alcina at the spectacular Teatro di San Carlo in Naples.
Premium seats to a piano recital by Yunchan Lim at Teatro di San Carlo.
Premium seats to Verdi’s Falstaff at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Premium seats to a concert performance of Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Premium seats to five performances at Teatro Massimo in Palermo, Teatro di San Carlo in Naples and Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Background talks by Tour Leader, Guy Noble about the music we will hear.
Guided walking tours of Palermo, Naples and Rome.
A private guided tour of Palazzo Conte Federico, one of the oldest and most prestigious buildings in Palermo with a history dating back to the 12th-century.
A guided tour of Palazzo Reale di Palermo, or the Norman Palace, including the exquisite Palatine Chapel.
A day trip to the beautiful towns of Cefalù and Monreale, with guided tours taking in the Duomo di Cefalù and Cattedrale di Monreale.
A day trip to Caserta for a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Royal Palace of Caserta.
A guided tour of the Palazzo Reale di Napoli, one of the most significant examples of Neapolitan neoclassical architecture in Europe.
A day trip to the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum with a guided tour.
A guided tour of the Abbey of Monte Cassino, rebuilt to its former glory after almost complete destruction in the Second World War.
A guided tour of Rome’s wonderful Capitoline Museums, the oldest public museum in the world.
An exclusive private tour of Palazzo Colonna, one of the oldest and largest private palaces of Rome.
A guided tour of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the spiritual heart of Christianity and Marian devotion, one of the four Papal Basilicas in Rome.
A welcome dinner and other delicious meals as listed in the itinerary, at restaurants carefully selected by Hayllar Music Tours.
Travel in a small group (maximum 20 people) giving you the opportunity to get to know your fellow guests and to enjoy one-on-one time with your expert Tour Leader.
Guy Noble is well-known to Australian audiences as a conductor, host, pianist, writer and broadcaster. He studied at the Sydney Conservatorium and then in London with the renowned Australian accompanist Geoffrey Parsons. He has conducted all the major orchestras in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Malaysia, in repertoire from classical and opera to tours with Harry Connick Jr and Randy Newman. He was an announcer on BBC Radio 3 and hosted Breakfast on ABC Classic from 1999-2001. He hosted and conducted the Queensland Symphony’s Music on Sunday series for 18 years, Adelaide’s Classics Unwrapped series for 5 years and Great Opera Hits with Opera Australia in the Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House for 10 years and 400 performances. He wrote the The Classical Music Explorer for ABC Books, two volumes of Word of The Day for Penguin Books and has had his own column in Limelight Magazine for over 15 years.
Guy loves to combine humour and music. He has cooked on stage with Maggie Beer and Simon Bryant, sang Rossini’s Cats Duet with Korean soprano Sumi Jo, and appeared on stage as Darth Vader with the Sydney Symphony. In 2024 he premiered a brand-new solo show at the piano – Guy Noble’s Very Serious Guide to Classical Music and a new musical he has written for children – The Grumpy Princess (Riverside Theatres, Parramatta).
The 5-star Grand Hotel et Des Palmes in Palermo stands as a grand testament to Sicilian history and Belle Époque elegance. Originally built in 1856 for an Anglo-Sicilian family, it was transformed in 1907 by architect Ernesto Basile into a luxury hotel imbued with sweeping Art Nouveau details. The hotel’s storied past includes days when composer Richard Wagner completed Parsifal in its suites, and dark chapters when secret mafia meetings were said to have taken place in its halls. Today, after meticulous restoration, the hotel seamlessly fuses historic charm with contemporary luxury - making it a perfect place to explore Palermo.
The tour cost includes a Superior Room.
Overlooking the sparkling Gulf of Naples, the Grand Hotel Vesuvio is a symbol of timeless elegance and Neapolitan charm. Since opening in 1882, this historic 5-star hotel has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and discerning travellers seeking luxury by the sea. Its opulent interiors blend classic sophistication with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the Caruso Restaurant, enjoy a drink with a view at the rooftop bar, relax in the wellness centre, or simply soak in the hotel’s rich atmosphere - a true landmark of hospitality on Naples’ magnificent waterfront.
The tour cost includes a Superior Room with City View.
If you would like to upgrade to a Superior Room with Sea View please contact us.
The Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel is a luxurious 5-star retreat set in the heart of the Eternal City. Overlooking the grand Piazza della Repubblica, this magnificent neoclassical palace blends timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication. Originally part of the ancient Diocletian Baths, the hotel offers guests a unique connection to Rome’s rich history. Inside, marble halls, sweeping staircases, and refined décor create an atmosphere of classic Italian grandeur. With its elegant rooms, rooftop terrace, fine dining, and impeccable service, the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi provides an unforgettable base for exploring the art and culture of Rome.
The tour cost includes a Premium Room.
If you would like hotel upgrade options please contact us on 02 9669 9181 / +61 2 9669 9181.
Single supplement: AUD$4,350
Itinerary
Itinerary
1ST OF 3 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL ET DES PALMES, PALERMO
ARRIVE PALERMO (D):
We arrive and check in at the luxurious 5-star Grand Hotel et Des Palmes, the only 5-star hotel in the centre of Palermo and former residence of the Ingham-Whitaker family. Hotel check-in is at 2:00pm, and we recommend arriving at this time.
In the early evening, we meet our Tour Leader, Guy Noble, who will introduce the tour. We then enjoy a delicious gourmet meal to welcome us to the start of our tour together.
2ND OF 3 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL ET DES PALMES, PALERMO
GUIDED TOUR OF PALERMO & PALAZZO CONTE FEDERICO (B):
This morning, we begin our exploration of Palermo. We set off from our historic hotel, where Richard Wagner once completed his opera Parsifal, on a relaxed walking tour that takes in Palermo’s enchanting historic quarter. Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, is a city where history, culture, and flavour collide. From dazzling Arab-Norman architecture and bustling street markets, to golden Byzantine mosaics and Mediterranean cuisine, its layered past and spirited character make it one of Italy’s most captivating destinations.
Our private local guide will tell us about the history of the impressive Teatro Massimo, the largest opera house in Italy, in fact one of the largest in Europe, and where we will enjoy a performance tomorrow evening. Our walk will then lead us along the pedestrianised Via Maqueda to the iconic Quattro Canti, the octagonal public plaza featuring ornate statues and fountains. We then walk along to Fontana Pretoria, one of Palermo’s major landmarks dating from 1555, and on to the Chiesa di San Cataldo and Chiesa di Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio.
Time is then allowed for lunch, which you might choose to purchase from the vibrant open-air market square of La Vucciria, with its bustling restaurants loudly competing for custom, or from one of the many street food vendors on Via Maqueda offering traditional Sicilian arancini. Alternatively, for those with a sweet tooth, you might be interested in visiting Chiesa e Monastero di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria, near where our walking tour will finish. Here, for small fee, you can visit the impressive church (currently undergoing restoration work inside) and then make your way to the quaint cloister, in a corner of which is a small café, serving the largest, sweetest and most impressive cannoli you are ever likely to encounter!
In the afternoon, we have the exclusive opportunity of visiting Palazzo Conte Federico for a private guided tour. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious buildings in Palermo, with the Norman tower at its heart dating back to the 12th-century. The building has links with Garibaldi, Richard Wagner, and many famous individuals linked throughout the ages to Freemasonry. The palace is still inhabited today by Count Alessandro Federico, a direct descendent of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, and our host for today’s visit, Countess Alwine Federico, an Austrian opera singer, champion swimmer and teacher.
Following our guided tour, we return to the hotel for a restful evening.
3RD OF 3 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL ET DES PALMES, PALERMO
PALAZZO REALE DI NAPOLI & BALLET PERFORMANCE AT TEATRO MASSIMO (B):
This morning, we enjoy a guided tour of the Palazzo Reale di Napoli, otherwise known as Palazzo dei Normanni, the oldest royal residence in Europe. Over the centuries, the Norman Palace has mirrored the city of Palermo’s fortunes, evolving under the rule of emirs, dukes, princes, kings, and viceroys, who added to its structure as they pleased. Towers, treasuries, courtyards, chapels, and ballrooms were incorporated into its design at various times, reflecting the whims of its successive rulers. Our guided tour includes a visit to the Cappella Palatina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The chapel functioned as both the religious centre of the palace as well as a venue for royal ceremonies. In its eclectic combination of Byzantine, Islamic, and Romanesque architectural and decorative traditions, the Cappella Palatina embodies the multicultural cosmopolitanism of Palermo.
From the Norman Palace, we make the short walk to Palermo’s iconic Cathedral. It is located in the oldest sacred area of Palermo, where the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs had previously built their own places of worship. When the Normans took power, they immediately replaced the Muslim mosque with a Christian church. However, the archbishop of Palermo, Gualtiero Offamilio, had the building demolished in 1184 and began the construction of a new splendid cathedral, a symbol of religious power in the city. Over the course of the following centuries, additions and restorations modified the original building, and it is this union of apparently incongruous different styles that gives life to a grandiose and harmonious whole.
In the early evening, we gather at our hotel for the first of our informative talks on the performances we will attend by our Tour Leader, Guy Noble. We then travel to the remarkable Teatro Massimo for the first of our tour performances.
BALLET PERFORMANCE - TEATRO MASSIMO, 8:00pm
Tchaikovsky The Sleeping Beauty
Cast TBA
OVERNIGHT FERRY FROM PALERMO TO NAPLES
DAY TRIP TO CEFALÚ & MONREALE, & PALERMO TO NAPLES OVERNIGHT FERRY (B, L):
This morning, following a relaxed check out from our hotel, we take a picturesque drive along the northern coast of Sicily to the town of Cefalú. Cefalu’s Old Town is home to a picturesque maze of pedestrian corridors that sit at the base of La Rocca, a soaring cliff that is home to Greek, Roman and Norman remains. On arrival, we enjoy a relaxed stroll through the town’s maze of charming streets with our local guide, culminating in a guided tour of the Duomo di Cefalù, one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, and a perfect example of the Norman style. The cathedral was founded in 1130 by Roger II who, according to legend, had vowed to build it if he would be saved from a terrible storm that had hit his ship on its way to Palermo. The fury of the elements threw him on the beach of Cefalù, where the king therefore laid the first stone of the imposing construction.
Following our visit, we make our way to one of Cefalú’s top dining destinations for a relaxed group lunch in a peaceful courtyard. After lunch, some free time is allowed for a stroll around Cefalú’s charming streets, and for a little shopping in its boutique stores, before we make our way back to our coach for the scenic drive to the hilltop town of Monreale.
Perched high above Palermo, Monreale offers one of Sicily’s most breathtaking views, and one of Europe’s greatest artistic treasures. The magnificent Cathedral of Monreale, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is a masterpiece of Norman architecture which dazzles with its vast golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes that shimmer in the light. Built in the 12th-century under King William II, the cathedral blends Arab, Byzantine, and Norman influences into a stunning harmony of cultures. Our tour guide will provide a fascinating introduction to this incredible building, constructed in just 10 years by a group of craftsmen trained in Byzantium, along with a history of this delightful town on the slopes of Mount Caputo.
Following our guided walking tour of the town and cathedral, time is allowed to relax in Piazza Guglielmo II with a cold drink or ice cream, before returning to our coach. We then take the scenic drive back to Palermo, where we board our overnight ferry which will take us to Naples, and the next stage of our tour.
1ST OF 4 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO, NAPLES
GUIDED TOUR OF THE ROYAL PALACE OF CASERTA & NAPLES (B, D):
On arrival into Naples, following our overnight ferry journey from Palermo, we take a short journey to Grand Hotel Vesuvio (our luxurious home for the next four nights), where we have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed breakfast in their beautiful Puccini Room overlooking Castel dell'Ovo and the Gulf of Naples.
Following breakfast, we depart for the short drive to Caserta, for a guided tour of the Royal Palace of Caserta, one of Italy’s most magnificent Baroque landmarks. Commissioned by Charles VII of Naples in the 18th-century and designed by architect Luigi Vanvitelli, it was intended to rival the grandeur of Versailles. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts over 1,200 rooms, grand staircases, frescoed ceilings, and vast gardens adorned with fountains and sculptures. Our guided tour will take in the impressive Royal Apartments, following which, time will be allowed to explore the expansive grounds, including the manicured English Garden, and to get lunch.
Following our visit to Caserta, we return to Naples where we check in to our 5-star hotel, the Grand Hotel Vesuvio. The remainder of the afternoon is free, giving you time to relax at the rooftop bar with a cold drink to soak in the views of the Gulf of Naples, the island of Capri and Mount Vesuvius in the distance, or to stroll along the seafront enjoying views of the imposing Castel dell'Ovo, a fortress and former royal residence.
This evening, we gather at the stylish rooftop restaurant Caruso, for a gourmet introduction to our time in Naples.
2ND OF 4 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO, NAPLES
GUIDED TOUR OF NAPLES & OPERA PERFORMANCE AT TEATRO DI SAN CARLO (B):
This morning, we enjoy the second of our pre-concert talks from Guy Noble, which will focus on this evening’s opera, Handel’s Alcina, and the four Mozart piano sonatas that we will hear in tomorrow evening’s recital.
Following our morning presentation, we journey to the historic centre of Naples for a fascinating guided walking tour. Our tour starts at the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta, Naples’ impressive cathedral dating from the 13th-century, and will include visits to a series of incredible and ornate churches including the Chiesa dei Girolamini, Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara with its ornate tiled cloisters, and the mighty Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo, along with other fascinating locations along the way.
After our walking tour, which will finish in the Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, there will be an optional coach transfer back to our hotel. Alternatively, guests might like to continue their exploration of Naples with a stroll along the bustling Via Toledo through the heart of the Spanish Quarter in the direction of our hotel. A few delicacies that you might like to pick up for lunch are of course the traditional Neopolitan pizza, the alternative Pizza Fritta, a Naples street food staple of a small fried pizza, or Babà Napoletano, a delicious sponge cake soaked in a sticky, citrus-scented boozy syrup.
In the late afternoon, we travel to historic Teatro di San Carlo for a performance of Handel’s opera Alcina. Opened in 1737, is the oldest continuously active opera house in the world. Renowned for its opulent architecture and superb acoustics, it has hosted premieres by Rossini, Donizetti, and Verdi, remaining a glittering symbol of Italy’s rich operatic tradition and cultural heritage.
OPERA PERFORMANCE - TEATRO DI SAN CARLO, 5:00pm
George Frederick Handel Alcina
Iván López-Reynoso conductor
Lisette Oropesa Alcina
Franco Fagioli Ruggiero
Varduhi Abrahamyan Bradamante
Sun Tianxuefei Oronte
Erin Morley Morgana
Sayumi Kaneko Oberto
Yunho Eric Kim Melisso
Orchestra del Teatro di San Carlo
3RD OF 4 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO, NAPLES
GUIDED TOUR OF PALAZZO REALE DI NAPOLI & RECITAL AT TEATRO DI SAN CARLO (B):
This morning, we stroll along the harbour-front from our hotel to the Palzazo Reale di Napoli for a guided tour. The Palazzo Reale in Naples is a grand testament to the city’s royal past and artistic splendour. Overlooking the bustling Piazza del Plebiscito, this elegant palace once housed Spanish and Bourbon monarchs, and today offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into centuries of regal life. Inside, lavish halls sparkle with frescoes, tapestries, and chandeliers, while the grand staircase and royal apartments evoke Naples’ baroque magnificence.
After our guided tour, guests might like to explore the impressive Galleria Umberto I, located across the road from the Teatro di San Carlo, or stroll a little further to Naples’ iconic, and endlessly bustling, Spanish Quarter. Tucked between Via Toledo and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Naples’ Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli) is a vibrant maze of narrow streets pulsing with life and tradition. Originally built in the 16th-century to house Spanish soldiers, it has evolved into one of the city’s most characterful neighbourhoods. Colourful laundry lines, buzzing scooters, and the aroma of espresso define its atmosphere. Once rough-edged but now revitalised, the Spanish Quarter blends history and charm, offering a true glimpse into the heart of Naples.
This evening, we return to Teatro di San Carlo for a recital with the brilliant young South Korean pianist Yunchan Lim. In 2022, Yunchan Lim gained widespread recognition when he became the youngest person ever to win the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition at just 18-years-old. In 2023, he signed an exclusive contract with Decca, and his first album on the label, Chopin: Études, won the Piano Award at the 2024 Gramophone Classical Music Awards. This evening, he performs Mozart’s first four piano sonatas.
CONCERT PERFORMANCE - TEATRO DI SAN CARLO, 8:00pm
Yunchan Lim piano
Mozart Piano Sonata No. 1 in C major, K. 279
Mozart Piano Sonata No. 2 in F major, K. 280
Mozart Piano Sonata No. 3 in B-flat major, K. 281
Mozart Piano Sonata No. 4 in E-flat major, K. 282
4TH OF 4 NIGHTS AT GRAND HOTEL VESUVIO, NAPLES
EXCURSION TO HERCULANEUM (B, L):
After a relaxed breakfast at out hotel, we journey around the Gulf of Naples to the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum. The Archaeological Park of Herculaneum, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD., offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in a Roman town. Smaller and wealthier than nearby Pompeii, Herculaneum was buried under a thick layer of volcanic ash and mud that preserved wooden structures, frescoes, mosaics, and household objects in remarkable detail. During our guided tour, we will walk through elegant villas, shops, and bathhouses, gaining a vivid sense of ancient Roman urban life. This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as one of the world’s most extraordinary windows into antiquity and human resilience amid natural disaster.
Following our guided tour, we enjoy a delicious group lunch in one of the impressive villas on Herculaneum’s ‘Golden Mile’.
We then return to Naples, where the remainder of the late afternoon and evening are free to rest.
1ST OF 4 NIGHTS AT ANANTARA PALAZZO NAIADI ROME HOTEL
NAPLES TO ROME & ABBEY OF MONTE CASSINO (B, L (packed lunches)):
This morning, we check out and depart from our hotel in Naples to begin our journey to Rome. En route, we journey into the hills of Montecassino for a guided tour of the Abbey of Monte Cassino.
Perched high on a rocky hill between Rome and Naples, the Abbey of Monte Cassino is one of Europe’s most historic and resilient monasteries. Founded by Saint Benedict in 529 AD, it became the birthplace of the Benedictine Order and a beacon of learning, faith, and culture throughout the Middle Ages. Destroyed and rebuilt multiple times - most famously after devastating and potentially unintentional bombing in World War II - the abbey today stands as a symbol of spiritual endurance and artistic beauty. Its serene cloisters, priceless manuscripts, and panoramic views make Monte Cassino a profound destination for pilgrims and history lovers alike.
Following our guided tour, time is allowed to peruse the Abbey’s impressive museum, which offers visitors examples of the various phases of the monastery's history and art. As there are no catering options at the Abbey of Monte Cassino, packed lunches will be provided on this day to enjoy following our visit.
We then continue on our journey to Rome, arriving at our luxurious 5-star hotel in the late afternoon, followed by a free evening to rest ahead of a busy day tomorrow.
2ND OF 4 NIGHTS AT ANANTARA PALAZZO NAIADI ROME HOTEL
GUIDED TOUR OF ROME & OPERA PERFORMANCE AT TEATRO DELL’OPERA DI ROMA (B):
After breakfast at our hotel, we journey via coach to the Ponte Sant'Angelo, the iconic bridge crossing the River Tiber, to begin our walking tour of historic Rome. Our relaxed stroll will include a brief history of the Eternal City, providing us with information on Castel Sant’Angelo, the Vatican City, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola and the famous Trevi Fountain.
Following our walking tour, there will be an optional coach transfer back to our hotel, or guests might choose to have lunch in the historic centre before returning independently to the hotel.
In the early evening, we gather for our pre-performance talk on the opera we will attend this evening, Verdi’s Falstaff, before strolling to the impressive Teatro dell’Opera di Roma (otherwise known as Teatro Costanzi). The Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, founded in 1880, is one of Italy’s most prestigious opera houses, renowned for its opulent architecture and superb acoustics.
OPERA PERFORMANCE - TEATRO DELL’OPERA DI ROMA, 6:00pm
Giuseppe Verdi Falstaff
Michele Mariotti conductor
Tatjana Gürbaca director
Ciro Visco chorus master
Henrik Ahr set designer
Silke Willrett costume designer
Stefan Bolliger lighting designer
Luca Salsi Falstaff
George Petean Ford
Maria Agresta Mrs Alice Ford
Ekaterine Buachidze Mrs Meg Page
Violeta Urmana Mrs Quickly
Marina Monzò Nannetta
Yijie Shi Fenton
Carlo Bosi Cajus
Paolo Antognetti Bardolfo
Gabriele Sagona Pistola
Teatro dell’Opera di Roma Orchestra and Chorus
3RD OF 4 NIGHTS AT ANANTARA PALAZZO NAIADI ROME HOTEL
CAPITOLINE MUSEUMS & PALAZZO COLONNA (B, L):
Today features guided tours of two of Rome’s most fascinating museums: the Capitoline Museums, the oldest public museum in the world, and Palazzo Colonna, one of the oldest and largest private palaces of Rome.
Perched atop Rome’s Capitoline Hill, the Capitoline Museums are the world’s oldest public museums, founded in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated ancient bronzes to the city. Today, the museums house an extraordinary collection of classical sculpture, Renaissance art, and archaeological treasures celebrating Rome’s millennia of history and artistic grandeur. Our guided tour takes in the highlights of the museum’s collection, followed by some free time to explore further.
After our visit to the Capitoline Museums, we stroll to our nearby lunch destination, where we can enjoy delicious food and the good company of our fellow guests, while soaking in spectacular views of the Colonna Traiana and Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II.
After lunch, we make the short stroll to the Palazzo Colonna for our second guided tour of the day. Palazzo Colonna is a testament to centuries of aristocratic grandeur and artistic patronage. Home to the noble Colonna family for over twenty generations, this palatial complex combines Renaissance and Baroque architecture with lavish interiors, frescoed halls, and exquisite art collections. Our exclusive guided tour explores its stunning galleries, ornate chapels, and the famous Salone dei Principi, adorned with frescoes by Pietro da Cortona. Beyond its artistic treasures, the palace offers a glimpse into Rome’s social and political history, reflecting the enduring influence of one of the city’s most powerful families.
After our guided tour, we return to our hotel. The evening is free.
4TH OF 4 NIGHTS AT ANANTARA PALAZZO NAIADI ROME HOTEL
GUIDED TOUR OF THE PAPAL BASILICA OF SAINT MARY MAJOR, FAREWELL LUNCH & CONCERT PERFORMANCE AT TEATRO DELL’OPERA DI ROMA (B, L):
Today marks the final full day of our tour, and this morning we visit one of Rome’s most spectacular sacred buildings, the nearby Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore. It is one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas and stands as a masterpiece of Christian art and architecture. Founded in the 5th-century, it is renowned for its stunning mosaics, richly decorated coffered ceiling, and the sacred relic of the Nativity crib. Perched on the Esquiline Hill, the basilica reflects centuries of devotion, blending early Christian, medieval, and Baroque influences. Santa Maria Maggiore remains both a spiritual sanctuary and a cultural treasure, embodying Rome’s enduring religious and artistic legacy.
After our guided tour, we stroll to a nearby restaurant for a relaxed farewell lunch, before returning to the hotel to rest ahead of this evening’s concert.
In the early evening, we gather for the final time for a pre-concert talk with our Tour Leader Guy Noble, before returning to the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma for our final performance, Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle.
CONCERT PERFORMANCE - TEATRO DELL’OPERA DI ROMA, 8:00pm
Giacomo Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle (version for soloists, chorus and orchestra)
Ciro Visco chorus master
Hasmik Torosyan soprano
Carlo Vistoli countertenor
Dmitry Korchak tenor
Michele Pertusi bass
Teatro dell’Opera di Roma Orchestra and Chorus
TOUR ENDS (B):
Following our final breakfast at the hotel, the tour concludes.
Inclusions
Inclusions
Single supplement: AUD$4,350
Deposit payment 1: Deposit AUD$1,500 per person (due at time of booking)
Deposit payment 2: Deposit AUD$1,500 per person (due on 6 May 2026)
Final payment due: 3 August 2026
Performances: Premium seats to five performances including: a ballet performance at Teatro Massimo in Palermo; an opera performance and a piano recital at Teatro di San Carlo in Naples; an opera performance and a concert performance at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma.
Please note: There may be some changes to the itinerary depending on final confirmation of evening performances.
Tour Leaders and Talks: Tour leadership and exclusive private talks by Guy Noble.
Tour Manager: An experienced Tour Manager to accompany the group throughout the tour.
Hotels: 12 nights' accommodation including:
Three nights at the 5-star Grand Hotel et Des Palmes in Palermo in a Superior Room;
One night on the ferry from Palermo to Naples in a Premium Sea View Cabin;
Four nights at the 5-star Grand Hotel Vesuvio in Naples in a Superior Room with City View;
Four nights at the 5-star Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel in a Premium Room;
Porterage of one piece of luggage at each hotel.
Travel: Land travel by private air-conditioned coach, one overnight ferry from Palermo to Naples.
Meals/Drinks: Breakfast each morning at the hotel and an additional breakfast at Grand Hotel Vesuvio on arrival in Naples, six lunches/dinners with wine, water and tea/coffee, and a packed lunch on day 9 for the visit to the Abbey of Monte Cassino.
Entry Fees and Guided Tours: Entrance fees for museums, art galleries etc as stated in your itinerary. Expert local guides will be used at some sites.
Tips: Tips for drivers, local guides and for meals included in your itinerary.
Information Pack: Comprehensive pre-tour information pack.
International/Domestic Travel: Hayllar Music Tours can provide you with a quote. Phone 02 9669 9181 / +61 2 9669 9181 (Australia / International) or email contact@hayllarmusictours.com
Airport Transfers: Transfers to/from airports and hotels at the beginning and end of the tour. Airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost.
Special Taxes: Special taxes and airport levies that can only be paid in cash at the destination. We will endeavour to advise you of these charges (if any) before you depart.
Entry into Europe: ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026. No action is required from travellers at this point. The European Union will confirm the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.
Travel Insurance: Please note that you are required to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover you for the duration of your tour. If you live in Australia, Hayllar Music Tours can organise your travel insurance for you. Please contact them at phone 02 9669 9181 / +61 2 9669 9181 (Australia / International) or email contact@hayllarmusictours.com
Meals: Lunches and dinners not nominated in your itinerary.
Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls and mini-bar.
Activities in Free Time: Costs associated with any activities suggested for you in your free time.
The tour will operate with 8 people. The maximum number on the tour will be 20 people.
All members of the tour must have the ability to:
undertake walking tours of two-three hours duration, including using stairs and walking on uneven ground;
stand for long periods in museum, art galleries etc;
climb staircases of 100 or more steps;
embark / disembark coaches, trains and other methods of transportation without assistance.
Please note that booking terms and conditions apply. Click here for the booking terms and conditions.
Booking
Booking
DEPOSIT ONLY | AUD$1,500 PER PERSON
6–18 OCTOBER 2026 (13 DAYS) | FIVE PERFORMANCES, INSIGHTFUL TALKS AND GUIDED TOURS OF THE ART AND HISTORY OF PALERMO, NAPLES AND ROME