Come on, let’s be honest: how many of us have always thought, “China, one day...” ? Well, that day has arrived.
Let the gongs ring out, we’re heading to the Dragon!
We didn’t copy this itinerary from a catalog or pull it from some random supplier. We built it by hand, backpack on our shoulders, roaming across China through trains, remote villages, and metropolises that will make your head spin. And it was there, along the way, that we realized something: China is a country that lives in the past and the future at the same time. And we decided to take you right there, into the middle of this contrast!
That’s why on this Sto Gran Viaggio group adventure we explore China for 14 days, jumping from one century to another as if it were nothing, visiting major cities but also traditional villages in the hills. On one side, Beijing and Shanghai, cutting-edge cities where skyscrapers look like they came out of a movie and robots serve you dinner. On the other, the Miao and Dong villages of Guizhou, ethnic minorities with an incredibly strong cultural tradition, made of wooden houses, embroidered clothes, songs, and rituals that stand the test of time.
And is that all? No way, there’s everything in between. The Great Wall (yes, that one), the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the hutong neighborhoods; then an overnight train to Xi’an, because a real adventure trip without a night in a sleeper berth isn’t a real adventure trip. We move on to Zhangjiajie, between Tianmen Mountain and its Heaven’s Gate and the Avatar mountains, which yes, really do exist. And then terraced rice fields as far as the eye can see in Longji, tea plantations, and a cruise among the mountains of Guilin.
We sleep in hotels in the heart of the cities and among villages far from mass tourism, with a perfect mix of ancient history, technology, and nature that will leave you speechless.
So here you go, now you get a summary of some of the Big Amazing Things we’ll experience:
🍌 Beijing, the Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square 🍌 The Great Wall and the Summer Palace 🍌 The hutong neighborhoods 🍌 Xi’an, the ancient capital 🍌 Tianmen Mountain and the Avatar mountains in Zhangjiajie 🍌 Furong, the village on the waterfall 🍌 The Miao and Dong villages 🍌 The terraced rice fields of Longji and the tea plantations 🍌 The cruise among the mountains of Guilin 🍌 Shanghai, city of the future
We don’t travel to say, “I’ve been there,” but to feel, “damn, I’ve changed.” We take you along to experience the most beautiful adventure trip of your life. The one you imagine, but even more so. China, here we come!
Oh, and we almost forgot: we’re not going to Chengdu to see the pandas, and that’s a deliberate choice. We’re nature lovers, and let’s be honest, the famous panda reserve is, for all intents and purposes, a zoo. Adding a stop just to take you to snap a photo with an animal in captivity? No thanks, we’re more than happy to skip it. You share our philosophy, right? (We knew it!!).
Experiences you'll live
Walk among Avatar's mountains and wonder whether we have ended up on Pandora.
Sitting in a Dong village together with the village elders.
Smell the rain in the midst of incredible rice fields.
Go from village stilt houses to the skyscrapers of Shanghai.
What we've got
(And the others don't, MUAHAHA)
Certified team leader with tour escort license.
You can depart from the airport you prefer.
We do not sleep in hostels or dormitories.
Discover this gran trip
Check out the itinerary
1
BEGIN THE ADVENTURE IN CHINA
Day 1
Well, today our big trip to China begins. Yeahhh! Excitement! We fly over half the world, look down on steppes, deserts, and mountains, and get closer and closer to our destination: the Dragon awaits us.
Well, today our big trip to China begins. Yeahhh! Excitement! We fly over half the world, look down on steppes, deserts, and mountains, and get closer and closer to our destination: the Dragon awaits us.
2
WELCOME TO BEIJING!
Day 2
Welcome to China! We leave our backpacks at the hotel, wash our armpits, and get ready for our first taste of Beijing.We kick things off right away with the Temple of Heaven, where for centuries emperors came to pray for abundant harvests. Blue roofs, perfect symmetry, and a huge park where Beijingers spend their time with tai chi, group dancing, cards, and chatting.We settle in, and toward evening we also have a nice briefing with our team leader so we’re crystal clear on the whooole big trip ahead of us. Then we dash off to dinner and after that crash into bed. Night!
Welcome to China! We leave our backpacks at the hotel, wash our armpits, and get ready for our first taste of Beijing.
We kick things off right away with the Temple of Heaven, where for centuries emperors came to pray for abundant harvests. Blue roofs, perfect symmetry, and a huge park where Beijingers spend their time with tai chi, group dancing, cards, and chatting.
We settle in, and toward evening we also have a nice briefing with our team leader so we’re crystal clear on the whooole big trip ahead of us. Then we dash off to dinner and after that crash into bed. Night!
3
THE GREAT WALL (WOW!)
Day 3
Today is the day we tick off one of the biggest items on the bucket list: we visit and walk on the Great Wall. Up and down its steps and watchtowers, with the stone serpent stretching off into the mountains. Oh, and we’re not taking you to the most touristy section: we’d risk spending the whole morning in line, lost among countless tourists. We’re going to the Huanghuacheng section. Better, right?In the afternoon, we enjoy a bit of imperial relaxation at the Summer Palace, the retreat where the court escaped the city heat. Lakes, pavilions, little bridges, and gardens planned down to the millimeter. The emperors really knew what they were doing.We sink our teeth into some amazing bao at a typical little eatery, and spend another night in Beijing.
Today is the day we tick off one of the biggest items on the bucket list: we visit and walk on the Great Wall. Up and down its steps and watchtowers, with the stone serpent stretching off into the mountains. Oh, and we’re not taking you to the most touristy section: we’d risk spending the whole morning in line, lost among countless tourists. We’re going to the Huanghuacheng section. Better, right?
In the afternoon, we enjoy a bit of imperial relaxation at the Summer Palace, the retreat where the court escaped the city heat. Lakes, pavilions, little bridges, and gardens planned down to the millimeter. The emperors really knew what they were doing.
We sink our teeth into some amazing bao at a typical little eatery, and spend another night in Beijing.
4
TIANMEN SQUARE, FORBIDDEN CITY AND HUTONGS
Day 4
Good mooorning! Up and at ’em! This morning we’re entering a place where, for almost 500 years, ordinary people could not set foot: the Forbidden City. Endless courtyards, red gates, golden roofs, and stories of emperors and concubines.We head out and find ourselves in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and most historically charged squares in the world. Then we completely change pace and get lost in the hutongs, the alleyways of old Beijing, among courtyard houses, bicycles, hanging laundry, and elderly people playing mahjong. Here is one of the first striking contrasts of our trip!And tonight? Tonight we sleep on the train! We board the night train to Xi’an and let ourselves be rocked by the rails. Sleeper-car pajama party, amazing.
Good mooorning! Up and at ’em! This morning we’re entering a place where, for almost 500 years, ordinary people could not set foot: the Forbidden City. Endless courtyards, red gates, golden roofs, and stories of emperors and concubines.
We head out and find ourselves in Tiananmen Square, one of the largest and most historically charged squares in the world. Then we completely change pace and get lost in the hutongs, the alleyways of old Beijing, among courtyard houses, bicycles, hanging laundry, and elderly people playing mahjong. Here is one of the first striking contrasts of our trip!
And tonight? Tonight we sleep on the train! We board the night train to Xi’an and let ourselves be rocked by the rails. Sleeper-car pajama party, amazing.
5
XI’AN AND THE TERRACOTTA ARMY
Day 5
Magic! We open our eyes and we are in Xi’an, the ancient capital, the place where the Silk Road began.Today one of the craziest archaeological discoveries ever is waiting for us: the Terracotta Army. Thousands of life-sized warriors, each with a different face, placed there over 2,000 years ago to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang even in the afterlife. And just think, they were found by chance by farmers while digging a well in the 1970s. A bit like when you find five euros in your jeans pocket… surprise!If our legs hold up, we will take a stroll around the city and fill our bellies. Tonight, sleep in Xi’an.
Magic! We open our eyes and we are in Xi’an, the ancient capital, the place where the Silk Road began.
Today one of the craziest archaeological discoveries ever is waiting for us: the Terracotta Army. Thousands of life-sized warriors, each with a different face, placed there over 2,000 years ago to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang even in the afterlife. And just think, they were found by chance by farmers while digging a well in the 1970s. A bit like when you find five euros in your jeans pocket… surprise!
If our legs hold up, we will take a stroll around the city and fill our bellies. Tonight, sleep in Xi’an.
6
ZHANGJIAJIE AND THE GATE OF HEAVEN
Day 6
Early wake-up and we fly to Zhangjiajie, in Hunan province. Here the scenery changes completely: from imperial cities to our first taste of China’s spectacular nature.Tianmen Mountain awaits us. We ride one of the longest cable cars in the world, suspended above cliffs and forests, and go all the way up to the Gateway to Heaven, a huge natural arch carved into the rock. WOW. To reach it there are 999 steps. Are we doing them? We’re doing them. Maybe.Along the mountain walls, those with courage can also walk on the glass skywalks hanging out over the void. Those who suffer from vertigo can take pictures of the others.Tonight we snore in Zhangjiajie.
Early wake-up and we fly to Zhangjiajie, in Hunan province. Here the scenery changes completely: from imperial cities to our first taste of China’s spectacular nature.
Tianmen Mountain awaits us. We ride one of the longest cable cars in the world, suspended above cliffs and forests, and go all the way up to the Gateway to Heaven, a huge natural arch carved into the rock. WOW. To reach it there are 999 steps. Are we doing them? We’re doing them. Maybe.
Along the mountain walls, those with courage can also walk on the glass skywalks hanging out over the void. Those who suffer from vertigo can take pictures of the others.
Tonight we snore in Zhangjiajie.
7
AVATAR'S MOUNTAINS AND FURONG
Day 7
Eeeeeeh, good morning! Today we enter the Zhangjiajie National Park, among the giant rock pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Stone towers hundreds of meters high, often wrapped in mist, covered with trees, and shooting toward the sky. We’ll probably go crazy over how beautiful it is. Have we already said WOW on this trip? We wander through the park all day.In the late afternoon we reach Furong, the village built literally on top of a waterfall. Ok ok, maybe this is a bit of a tourist trap, we know. But it’s worth it: despite the entrance ticket to pay, which feels like an amusement park, it is interesting to see the effort toward cultural preservation. Let’s give it a chance!In the evening, with the lanterns lit, it really is a postcard scene. We sleep nearby.
Eeeeeeh, good morning! Today we enter the Zhangjiajie National Park, among the giant rock pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the film Avatar. Stone towers hundreds of meters high, often wrapped in mist, covered with trees, and shooting toward the sky. We’ll probably go crazy over how beautiful it is. Have we already said WOW on this trip? We wander through the park all day.
In the late afternoon we reach Furong, the village built literally on top of a waterfall. Ok ok, maybe this is a bit of a tourist trap, we know. But it’s worth it: despite the entrance ticket to pay, which feels like an amusement park, it is interesting to see the effort toward cultural preservation. Let’s give it a chance!
In the evening, with the lanterns lit, it really is a postcard scene. We sleep nearby.
8
LANDGE AND THE SECRET MIAO VILLAGES
Day 8
Today we head toward Kaili, in the Guizhou region, and this is where the part of the trip that made us fall in love begins: the part with the ethnic minority villages.We visit the village of Langde, where the Miao people live: wooden houses climbing up the hillside, hand-embroidered clothes, and silver ornaments. But we do not stop here: Langde is nice, but it is the biggest village and attracts a lot of tourists. And unfortunately, when tourists are involved, the Chinese love kitsch.So we continue toward another little secret village, super cute, surrounded by greenery and far from mass tourism. Here we can breathe the real rural China.After the skyscrapers and crowds of Beijing, here it feels as if we have taken a leap back a few centuries. And that is exactly the reason why we came all the way here.Is it raining? Even better. That is when the charm of the stilt houses in the mist comes alive.We sleep right here.
Today we head toward Kaili, in the Guizhou region, and this is where the part of the trip that made us fall in love begins: the part with the ethnic minority villages.
We visit the village of Langde, where the Miao people live: wooden houses climbing up the hillside, hand-embroidered clothes, and silver ornaments. But we do not stop here: Langde is nice, but it is the biggest village and attracts a lot of tourists. And unfortunately, when tourists are involved, the Chinese love kitsch.
So we continue toward another little secret village, super cute, surrounded by greenery and far from mass tourism. Here we can breathe the real rural China.
After the skyscrapers and crowds of Beijing, here it feels as if we have taken a leap back a few centuries. And that is exactly the reason why we came all the way here.
Is it raining? Even better. That is when the charm of the stilt houses in the mist comes alive. We sleep right here.
9
THE (SECRET) DONG VILLAGES
Day 9
We move on to Rongjiang, in the heart of Dong territory, another minority group that guards its culture like a treasure.We visit a secret village (of course), among dark wooden houses, rice paddies, and alleyways where life moves slowly. The Dong are famous for their drum towers, where people gather to decide important matters, for the covered bridges called “wind and rain” bridges, and for their polyphonic songs passed down orally through generations.Here we are not just dropping by and moving on. We sit down, observe, and enjoy the moment. In places like these, sometimes even doing nothing is a lot. We spend the night here.PS: why all this secrecy? Because we have spent many days wandering through the hills, and we want to protect these places from the online world. We do it for you too <3
We move on to Rongjiang, in the heart of Dong territory, another minority group that guards its culture like a treasure.
We visit a secret village (of course), among dark wooden houses, rice paddies, and alleyways where life moves slowly. The Dong are famous for their drum towers, where people gather to decide important matters, for the covered bridges called “wind and rain” bridges, and for their polyphonic songs passed down orally through generations.
Here we are not just dropping by and moving on. We sit down, observe, and enjoy the moment. In places like these, sometimes even doing nothing is a lot. We spend the night here.
PS: why all this secrecy? Because we have spent many days wandering through the hills, and we want to protect these places from the online world. We do it for you too <3
10
GUILIN AND TEA PLANTATIONS
Day 10
The Dong roosters wake us up at random, whenever they feel like it. Giovanna, the Dong mother, prepares a steaming dish for breakfast. We say goodbye to the village and jump on the train towards Guilin, and we return to the present at full speed.Once we arrive, we head up into the hills and, as we climb: we dive into the tea plantations, where we discover how that drink we thought we knew is really made. Harvesting, processing and of course tasting, because we do things properly.Then we reach the Longji terraced rice fields and enjoy the first views of these incredible hills. Tonight we sleep among the rice fields.
The Dong roosters wake us up at random, whenever they feel like it. Giovanna, the Dong mother, prepares a steaming dish for breakfast. We say goodbye to the village and jump on the train towards Guilin, and we return to the present at full speed.
Once we arrive, we head up into the hills and, as we climb: we dive into the tea plantations, where we discover how that drink we thought we knew is really made. Harvesting, processing and of course tasting, because we do things properly.
Then we reach the Longji terraced rice fields and enjoy the first views of these incredible hills. Tonight we sleep among the rice fields.
11
LONGJI RICE TERRACES AND YAO VILLAGE
Day 11
We wake up among the Longji rice terraces, also called “the dragon’s backbone”. Terraces covering entire mountains, built by hand over the course of centuries. Depending on the season, they are green, golden, or filled with water that reflects the sky. Guess what you’ll say? Yes, WOW.We visit a Yao village, yet another minority group we encounter, whose women are famous for their incredibly long hair, which in some cases exceeds one and a half meters. Take that, conditioner.In the afternoon we head down to Guilin for a city tour: Elephant Trunk Tower, the Twin Pagodas, and the riverside promenade.We spend the night in Guilin.
We wake up among the Longji rice terraces, also called “the dragon’s backbone”. Terraces covering entire mountains, built by hand over the course of centuries. Depending on the season, they are green, golden, or filled with water that reflects the sky. Guess what you’ll say? Yes, WOW.
We visit a Yao village, yet another minority group we encounter, whose women are famous for their incredibly long hair, which in some cases exceeds one and a half meters. Take that, conditioner.
In the afternoon we head down to Guilin for a city tour: Elephant Trunk Tower, the Twin Pagodas, and the riverside promenade.
We spend the night in Guilin.
12
GUILIN, CRUISE THROUGH THE GREENERY
Day 12
This morning we take it easy and go on a river cruise among the karst peaks that rise out of the water like dragon’s teeth. It is one of the most famous landscapes in China, so much so that it even ended up on banknotes. We see it live, which is better.In the afternoon we fly to Shanghai. And here the contrast is total: from wooden villages and rice paddies to the boldest future.Holy cow, what a futuristic blast!
This morning we take it easy and go on a river cruise among the karst peaks that rise out of the water like dragon’s teeth. It is one of the most famous landscapes in China, so much so that it even ended up on banknotes. We see it live, which is better.
In the afternoon we fly to Shanghai. And here the contrast is total: from wooden villages and rice paddies to the boldest future.
Holy cow, what a futuristic blast!
13
SHANGHAI, WELCOME TO THE FUTURE
Day 13
Last day of the trip and we spend it entirely in Shanghai, the city that moves faster than any other.We stroll along the Bund, the riverside promenade with historic European-style buildings, and find ourselves facing the Pudong skyline, with the craziest skyscrapers you have ever seen. A few days ago we were among stilt houses and songs passed down for centuries; today we are in the future. This is the beauty of China, and it is the thread that has accompanied us throughout this Great Journey.Tonight, one last dinner to celebrate this China that we have experienced together. Shall we go back to eating the things we liked the most, or shall we throw ourselves into something new? Then a lovely evening with all of Shanghai lit up before our eyes.Goodnight Shanghai, you are so beautiful.
Last day of the trip and we spend it entirely in Shanghai, the city that moves faster than any other.
We stroll along the Bund, the riverside promenade with historic European-style buildings, and find ourselves facing the Pudong skyline, with the craziest skyscrapers you have ever seen. A few days ago we were among stilt houses and songs passed down for centuries; today we are in the future. This is the beauty of China, and it is the thread that has accompanied us throughout this Great Journey.
Tonight, one last dinner to celebrate this China that we have experienced together. Shall we go back to eating the things we liked the most, or shall we throw ourselves into something new? Then a lovely evening with all of Shanghai lit up before our eyes.
Goodnight Shanghai, you are so beautiful.
14
LET'S GO BACK TO ITALY
Day 14
In the morning, with tears in our eyes, we go to the airport and leave China on a flight to Italy. The trip comes to an end and we will definitely cry. It was the trip you imagined, but like, even more.XIÈXIÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ!
In the morning, with tears in our eyes, we go to the airport and leave China on a flight to Italy. The trip comes to an end and we will definitely cry. It was the trip you imagined, but like, even more.
XIÈXIÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ!
Boring but important stuff to know
Deposit and registration
To sign up for the trip, you need to:
🍌 Pay a deposit, which you will find indicated during the sign-up process, to confirm your spot. 🍌 The remaining balance must be paid 45 days before departure.
And what about the payment method?
🍌 You can pay by bank transfer. 🍌 You can pay by card 🍌 You can pay for your trip in up to 12 installments with HeyLight.
The final cost of the trip, including the extras you select, will be shown during the sign-up process and in your personal area.
Air flight
🍌 Included in the price, you also get the flight departing from Milan or Rome. 🍌 You can also depart from other airports, just select them during sign-up. If you can’t find the airport you want, write to us and we’ll help you. 🍌 There is also a No Flight option. Basically, if you want to arrange your flight on your own, we deduct the airfare from the trip price and you take care of your air travel yourself. Then we’ll arrange to meet at the destination.
🍌 Your flight times can be found in your personal area once you have completed your sign-up. 🍌 And who does the check-in? You can decide! By default, you do it yourself, but if you want, we can take care of it: you just need to choose that option during sign-up. 🍌 Read all the FAQs carefully about the flight at the bottom of this page.
Transport and accommodation
🍌 Transportation: Minivan with local driver where included, local trains, and domestic flights; 🍌 Accommodation: we will stay in hotels and guesthouses in shared double rooms. In homestays, there may be quadruple rooms. Bathrooms are private.
One thing: at Sto Gran Tour we choose not to use hostels with dorm rooms or low-standard B&Bs, because we want to protect the quality of the trip.
One last thing: depending on availability/changes on site, alternatives to the proposed accommodations may be used. A double room is never 100% guaranteed. We have created a dedicated FAQ just below.
Luggage and equipment
🍌 You will have one carry-on bag and one small backpack of small size. 🍌 You will find the dimensions and weight of the luggage in your personal area. 🍌 Checked baggage is not included. But if it is not included in the airline fare, you can add it in your personal area. 🍌 You will find the equipment list of what to bring for the trip in your personal area.
Extra activities
Extra activities are activities not included in the itinerary, but that you can choose to add to customize your trip. They’re amazing experiences, but maybe not everyone feels like doing them. That’s totally fine! This way, instead of putting up with an “all inclusive” package and paying for things you don’t like, you have the freedom to choose.
🍌 You can book them during sign-up, or later in your personal area. 🍌 It’s not mandatory for the whole group to do the same activities. 🍌 For those who don’t do the extra activities, there is always a free alternative. It’s never an alternative that takes away from the itinerary, so no one has to miss out on anything. 🍌 When specific equipment is needed for activities, we’ll let you know.
If you feel there are extra activities that excite you, we recommend booking them as soon as possible. Especially if you’re traveling in high season, they sell out very quickly. We don’t control the sales, so if the available spots run out, there’s nothing we can do about it.
There’s also a dedicated FAQ in the section “Maybe you have questions, we definitely have answers.” Take a look.
Country entry requirements
🍌 Before signing up for the trip, we recommend taking a look at any entry requirements the country may have. You can do so here by checking the Viaggiare Sicuri website: https://www.viaggiaresicuri.it/find-country/country/CHN 🍌 It will be your responsibility (yes, it’s on you!) to make sure you meet all the entry requirements for the destination country or countries. Sto Gran Tour declines all responsibility in the event of refusal of entry into the country. At this point, you may have some questions, so ask us anything and we’ll reply! 🍌 Any visa or government tax will be at your expense.
Meals
🍌 Are you intolerant to something? 🍌 Do you have any food allergies? 🍌 Are you vegetarian? Vegan? Pastafarian?! Do you eat only things that start with Z?!?
Nooo problem! Food should not be a limit for your trip. A solution can always be found, both at the restaurant and at the supermarket.
What's included, and what's not
Included in the trip price
Not included in the trip price
Common fund
Traveling with stacks of cash in local currency and doing the math with a calculator every evening is nobody’s idea of fun. So, we’ll spare you that stress. Each participant, in turn, pays for the small shared expenses however they prefer and records them in the shared app, which at the end of the trip does the math for you and splits the costs among the group. Shared expenses include:
🍌 Team Leader’s expenses: meals when not included, any entrance fees when not included; 🍌 Other group expenses: tips, short taxi rides, travel snacks; 🍌 We estimate the shared expenses for this trip to be between €50 and €80, depending on the number of participants.
Pick your extra activities
Customize your itinerary!
Great idea, with us you can. You can tweak every itinerary by adding the extra activities you want to do on the trip. We've tested and approved every single one. So instead of putting up with an "all inclusive" and paying for stuff you don't like, you're free to choose.
You might have questions, we definitely have answers
Deposit, balance and insurance
🍌 A deposit is required at the time of registration.
🍌 You pay the balance 45 days before departure, directly in your personal area.
🍌 You can pay by bank transfer, card, or in installments.
🍌 We will show you the final cost of the trip, including the extras you select, during the registration process, in the confirmation email, and in your personal area.
🍌 You can choose whether to take out cancellation insurance: the covered cases are listed in the insurance PDF that can be downloaded during registration.
🍌 It is not mandatory: if it is not for you, you can take out one on your own.
🍌 If the reason for the cancellation does not fall within the covered cases, Sto Gran Tour cannot take responsibility for it.
How air travel works
🍌 Your flight is included in the trip price, departing from Milan or Rome depending on the departure date.
🍌 For an additional fee, you can choose a different departure airport. Like Catania, Naples, Bologna, London... your call. And write to us if you can’t find your airport.
🍌 The group may have different flight schedules, depending on flight availability.
🍌 You’ll find the flight times in your personal area as soon as they are available.
🍌 From your personal area you can add checked baggage (not included), seats together (booking for two does not guarantee them), check-in handled by us, and report dietary needs for the onboard meal.
🍌 Want us to take care of your check-in? No problem! Add the option in your personal area, and we’ll take care of it.
The no-flight option
If you prefer to arrange your own flights, no problem! You can select the “without flight” option when you sign up. We’ll deduct the flight cost from the trip price and that’s it. Please note:
🍌 With the “without flight” option, airport transfers are not included.
🍌 With the “without flight” option, internal flights are still covered by us.
🍌 With the “without flight” option, we ask you to let us know the flight times you would like to book, so we can confirm whether they are compatible with the rest of the group.
🍌 With the “without flight” option, before purchasing your flights you must wait until the trip is confirmed. If you buy them before confirmation, we will not reimburse the airfare portion.
Types of accommodation
🍌 The accommodation arrangement is indicated in the "accommodation and transport" tab in the section “Boring and important things to know” that you can find on this page.
🍌 Depending on the departure date and the trip, the arrangement shown on the website may vary from the one described. For this reason, you will never find it written that a specific type of room (double, triple, or quadruple) is guaranteed and 100% certain. Precisely because we often do not have full control over suppliers’ availability.
Also keep in mind that on a group trip, sharing is at the heart of the travel idea: it may happen that you share, in addition to an amazing travel experience, rooms and bathrooms as well. Every person for themselves? Come on, no. If a double room is vitally important to you (like, the kind of thing you absolutely cannot survive without), write to us before departure! That way we can avoid problems, misunderstandings, and pain in the ass for both of us. Sounds like a good deal?
Group and travel companions
🍌 Groups usually consist of 3 to 17 people, plus a Team Leader. The exact number changes depending on the trip.
🍌 The average age on our trips is between 25 and 45 years old, with various exceptions.
🍌 Generally, the group comes from all over Italy and includes open-minded people who love new experiences. You do not need to be an experienced traveler, nor have you needed to take part in group trips before. What matters is the spirit with which you leave, with the desire and curiosity to come explore and experience the world. It will be what you imagine, but even more so.
Group confirmation
🍌 The group is generally confirmed with 3 people.
🍌 One month before departure, we will open the Wazzzzup group where you can start getting to know the participants. You will find the Sto Gran Gruppo link in your personal area.
🍌 If you have signed up for a trip and it is not confirmed, you will receive a notice 30 days before departure and you can choose whether to change group and destination, or receive a refund of the deposit paid.
Travel itinerary and changes
The itinerary is our route, but when you travel, unexpected events can happen: weather, closed roads, or local situations may require a change of plans. If you are looking for a “standard” trip, this might not be for you. If, on the other hand, you like the idea of adapting to the road, know that we never leave you without a plan B:
🍌 The itinerary and the order of the days may change depending on the conditions on site. If needed, we reorganize the trip and immediately offer you an alternative, always putting safety first.
🍌 We try to make up for missed days or activities, whenever the team leader considers it possible and the group agrees.
Got questions buzzing around your head? Write to us
We're here to listen, tell us everything!
Done!
We'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Or WhatsApp us
Just don't send us voice messages, life is hard enough as it is. Other than that, we reply Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The washing machine a newsletter with no fabric softener
Chats with adventurers and loose thoughts on travel while we wait for the spin cycle to finish. Sometimes you even find a forgotten discount in your pocket.
Sign up for Sta Gran Newsletter
Sta Gran Newsletter
Leave us a couple of details and we'll write to you when the spin cycle is done.
Want to save this departure?
We'll let you know when its status changes or there's other news.
The staff was always available and quick to answer my questions. I had to change my departure date and didn't have the slightest problem. Our tour leader was wonderful, took us to every stop and even more. The travel group was a great mix and we had a blast!
Bruna Musu
January 2026
Hakuna Matata!!!
Exciting trip to Kenya! Andrea made us live the "safari" to the fullest, cheerfully carting us from one animal to the next (he even knew the exact number of hairs on their bu...). Almost everything worked and even the hiccups were handled like a pro. Fantastic group, as only happens on unforgettable trips.
Amerigo degli Atti
November 2025
10 fantastic days in India
This was my fourth experience with Sto Gran Tour and once again I came back truly enthusiastic. A special thanks goes to our guide Chiara, a precise young woman, attentive to everyone's needs, reliable and always available, who accompanied us with professionalism, great passion and friendliness. The tour was organized impeccably: well-studied itineraries, perfect timing and a management of the trip that let us enjoy every moment without worries. I warmly recommend Sto Gran Tour to anyone looking for a serious, competent organization that brings out the best of every stop thanks to the professionalism of its guides. An experience to remember!!
Nicolò Verando
February 2026
Sta Gran Lapland
Second trip with Sto Gran Tour and once again my expectations weren't let down! Thanks to a great group, a great team leader (Alberto) and an enchanted Lapland, even the -30° and the little mishaps turned into memories and stories to laugh about. The experiences on offer were all authentic and completely out of the comfort zone, which in my opinion is what you look for in a trip like this, a trip I'll always carry in my heart while waiting for the next one 💝
Cristina Intrieri
March 2026
Trip to the Lofoten
It was my first group trip and it far exceeded my expectations. Besides the breathtaking landscapes, I have to say everything was organized down to the smallest detail, from the very nice and comfortable accommodation where we stayed to the itinerary and the activities chosen. Our team leader Nic was very well prepared and patient, ready to solve any hiccup and always offering us alternatives on what to do. With a group made up only of women, he managed to create a unique harmony. I recommend everyone travel with StoGranTour! See you on the next trip together ❤️
Giulia Ottaviani
April 2026
Japan on the rails
This had been my dream trip since I was a child, so I left with high expectations… but it still managed to exceed them. I chose StoGranTour because it seemed the tour most in line with my way of traveling, and it turned out to be the right choice. The organization was excellent: every day had a well-structured program, with the chance to make small changes based on the group's needs. Plus, at the end of the activities, we always had some free time to explore on our own. The itinerary was carefully planned, but the real added value was our guide, Michele. With his passion and enthusiasm for Japanese culture, he made every visit interesting and never heavy. His explanations were clear and full of fun facts, some tied to the world of anime and video games, creating original connections with what we were seeing. We also really appreciated his choice of restaurants: he had us try excellent food in authentic places we would hardly have found on our own. Another thing that struck me positively was the group: on these trips you never know who you'll end up sharing the experience with, but I got along really well, which made everything even more enjoyable.
Maurizio Minetti
April 2026
Thank you Sto Gran Tour!
My experience in Vietnam with Sto Gran Tour turned out to be magical. I loved every second of our trip and appreciated the organization and the attention to detail. The difference was certainly also made by Giulia, our team leader, from whom I learned so much: right from the start she proved very professional and knowledgeable. I'd do it again a thousand times. Thank you Sto Gran Tour!
Valeria Maresca
July 2026
Ring Road in Iceland
The itinerary let us discover incredible and very different landscapes, alternating waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black beaches, small villages and scenery that seems to belong to another planet. The added value was the group and our coordinator Nicola Ferrucci, a real expert and in love with Iceland. Thanks to him we had unforgettable experiences and visited places off the most touristy spots… he told us legends, curiosities and anecdotes that only someone passionate who knows the place perfectly can know.
Chiara Giammaroli
May 2026
The best trip I've ever...
The best trip I've ever taken. Not only for the place, which is breathtaking, but for the group and our guide, Roberta, Bibi to her friends. Yes, friends, because on this trip a fantastic synergy is created, thanks not only to the personality of each participant but also to Bibi's ability to involve everyone. Bibi was an amazing guide, she looked into everything, from the restaurant to every single grain of lava, so that we could experience Iceland to the fullest, passing on her enthusiasm and sensing, in every single moment, the mood of the group and the needs of each of us.
Mariateresa Vigilante
March 2026
Lapland, hunting for the northern lights
I did the trip to Lapland organized by Sto Gran Tour (Dec–Jan) and the experience was excellent from every point of view. The itinerary was carefully planned: well-spread activities, zero downtime and the chance to truly live the essence of Lapland. From the northern lights to the husky excursions, every moment was handled with professionalism and care. Federico, our coordinator, was very knowledgeable, helpful and always ready to share fun facts about the area. I also really appreciated the punctuality and clarity of the organization: transfers, excursions and equipment always perfect. It's a trip I'd recommend to anyone who wants to experience Lapland without stress, with the reassurance of a serious organization and a level of care that really makes the difference. Sto Gran Tour passes with flying colors: an unforgettable experience.
Antonio
January 2026
Unforgettable Lapland
A perfect experience from every point of view! A trip lived 100% that met all my expectations! Visiting Lapland means putting yourself to the test, and I can say that without the organization, but above all without the involvement of our leader Alberto, I would have backed out. Alberto balanced every phase of our trip, staying serious while bringing a great spirit of involvement. His presence made all the difference! Every phase of our trip went smoothly, with no issues in timing, transfers or organization. Even for the little hiccups a quick and effective solution was found. I'd choose Sto Gran Tour again for my next trip with my eyes closed.
Rosita Pavone
November 2025
An exceptional first experience
An unforgettable experience in Vietnam: even though I left on my own, I immediately felt at ease with all the other participants (18 people). Very beautiful places, excellent organization, even considering that three days had to be rescheduled because of a typhoon that hit the central part of the country. Several bus transfers, some of them hours long, due to the shape of Vietnam itself, but we knew about it before departure. Team leader Roberto: a great person and an excellent professional. Happy I took part, I'd leave again tomorrow.
Matteo Monteverdi
January 2026
Unique experiences
I've traveled with StoGranTour three times, visiting South Africa, Iceland and Morocco. On all three trips I met extremely well-prepared and knowledgeable guides, with a truly impeccable wealth of knowledge about the land, the flora and the local cultures. I warmly recommend traveling with them to anyone who wants to live a unique experience, thanks to itineraries and experiences planned down to the smallest detail and to fantastic tour leaders.
Chiara Nordera
November 2025
Fuerteventura in November with Bibi!!!
The tour was absolutely positive and well organized, the itinerary complete and balanced, also taking winds and tides into account. Every day had something special: a sunset, a hidden spot, a fun fact about the place... Our team leader Bibi was simply fantastic. The fact that she has lived in Fuerte for a while was certainly a big plus: it let us experience the island authentically, with a few surprising unplanned moments too. At the same time she was very professional despite being "at home", which is not a given and was much appreciated. We felt Fuerteventura a little more ours thanks to her too, as she took us by the hand to every place with sensitivity and friendliness.
Francesca Stanco
January 2026
Trip to Morocco 🇲🇦
My first trip with Stograntour couldn't have gone better! I was lucky enough to live a very intimate experience, traveling with a tiny group of wonderful people. Morocco is marvelous and gave us intense emotions. The itinerary was well structured: we went from snowy mountains to the desert, crossed hills of argan trees to reach the immense ocean, and then ended up in the chaos, but also the chill, among the rooftops and gardens of Marrakech. Along the way we met fantastic people. In particular, I won't forget Jawad's welcome and generosity and the beautiful experience at his home. We were guided flawlessly by Rob, a perfect team leader: professional and passionate, but above all a true travel companion. Always smiling and helpful, sensitive and attentive. Thanks to everyone, and see you on the next adventure!
Cristina F.
March 2026
Trip to Morocco
I left for Morocco at the end of March for my second trip with Stograntour and once again it was an all-round positive experience. The real added value for me is the organization, flawless and never trite in an itinerary that always goes a bit beyond expectations, and the skill of the team leaders: Ilaria was perfect! The group worked really well too, I'm taking home a great memory and I'm already thinking about the next trip!
Eleonora Tronconi
May 2026
Sta Gran Cappadocia 🇹🇷
I'm writing this review just back from a fantastic trip to Turkey (Istanbul + Cappadocia), what can I say, I couldn't have asked for better! It wasn't my first time with SGT and, as I'd already seen in the past, the trip definitely lived up to my expectations. A special thanks to our super team leader Marco Rotunno, who made us experience these magical places at their best ✨🫶🏼
Letizia Callegari
February 2026
Best experience ever
One of the best experiences of my life! I've done plenty of group trips, but this one beat them in every way! A team leader (Cate) full of enthusiasm and passion, perfect organization and better accommodation than many others! Not to mention all the extras. Thank you, Sto Gran Tour really is a great blast, but thanks above all to our Great Team Leader 🍌
Miriam Forte
November 2025
A truly memorable first trip to Japan
I joined the trip with my partner and it was our first time in Asia. The experience went beyond expectations. The itinerary was carefully planned, and credit also goes to our tour leader, Michele, who enriched every stop with clear explanations and his enthusiasm for Japanese culture. The route offered a really pleasant balance between cultural visits, discovering the local food and moments immersed in nature. The group we shared the trip with was a nice surprise too: curious, engaged people with a genuine desire to enjoy every moment. All in all, an experience I'd absolutely recommend to anyone who wants a first introduction to Japan that's well structured and engaging at the same time!
Fabio Rosato
April 2026
Namibia with Federica :)
I joined a trip to Namibia with Federica at the end of April 2026; besides her flawless organization, I want to praise her excellent preparation and her passion, which made this trip unforgettable. Very happy with the group of people I had the pleasure of meeting too! It was a rich trip in many ways, and what can I say about Namibia, it's undoubtedly a wonderful place!
Alessia
November 2025
Sta Gran Review
The assistance and support I received from the organization before departure were excellent and allowed me to arrive prepared on the first day of this adventure. (Even with a few refunds, everything was clear and simple.) During the trip, the skills and practical abilities of our team leader proved to be the key to making us enjoy the experience to the fullest: from handling the unexpected to organizing the downtime, from helping build the bond between travel companions to supporting each member's individual needs. I'm coming home from this trip very satisfied and sure that, if in the future I choose to take on another similar adventure, "Sto Gran Tour" will definitely be the first travel company I'll consider.
Marco Milan
August 2026
Madeira with Marco
It's my second trip with StoGranTour and once again I was satisfied. I found the organization punctual and well structured, with clear directions and the peace of mind of being able to rely on the people in charge. My compliments go to our team leader, Marco Rotunno, who contributed a lot to the success of these eight days. He was engaging but never intrusive, kind, funny and always available, attentive to everyone's needs. An experience I recommend to those who love trekking and active holidays and, above all, to those who want to let themselves be surprised by a landscape, the beauty of a sunrise or a starry sky.
Simona Giordanengo
March 2026
If you're thinking about it, do it!
A wonderful experience, cleverly divided into daily goals; I never imagined I could visit so many spectacular places in a single day despite the distances. Our guide Sara was marvelous, super prepared and ready to solve any problem. I recommend this experience to those traveling solo too. The places we rested in were excellent as well, both for comfort and for their position to see the aurora.
Serena
December 2025
Iceland with Nic
A fantastic experience! The trip was beautiful, well organized and with a great variety and diversity of experiences. All made even more exciting thanks to Nic, his contagious enthusiasm for adventure and his ability to keep the group together.
Mariangela Viceconte
August 2026
Scotland tour, August '26
It lets you drive all over Scotland and its gorgeous islands, focusing on its natural wonders, which you enjoy through scenic treks: the right balance between effort and views, doable for everyone. Yes, it will rain and it will be fantastic. Our tour leader Alberto was attentive to everyone's needs, balancing the sights of the towns we visited, Edinburgh above all, with the beauty of the land and the right dose of lightness, alternating effort and breaks to recharge.
Dario Conti
October 2025
Sto Gran Kenya
My first solo trip, and I couldn't have had a better guide! The legendary Cruz in the Bush took me among lions, giant animals, breathtaking sunsets and ocean waves. He knows every corner of Kenya, almost as if it were his home. If you need someone to rely on, trust him. There's never a shortage of laughs, but I won't spoil anything else: meet him in person and you won't regret it.
Denise Camboni
January 2026
My first group trip
It was my first group trip, and I was really satisfied with the organization and with how the trip was structured! Fantastic group, and what can I say about the guide: fantastic and super active! She showed us wonderful places and told us about Iceland from the heart!
Mirco Pieralisi
January 2026
Fantastic trip to Vietnam
Back from a fantastic trip to Vietnam with Chiara, a flawless tour leader, always present and ready to talk things through with the group for any decision to be made. Wonderful places, between the chaos of the cities and the quietest, most magical green of nature. This is my third group trip and the first with Sto Gran Tour: really well done, with excellent organization.
