Q. My husband and I would like to travel to Italy for the first time in April, visiting Rome, Venice, Florence and/or Milan. We feel escorted tours are restrictive and too scheduled, but we do not want to rent a car. We would like leisure time and a guide of some sort. Can you recommend something that might meet our needs? - L. M., New Milford, N.J.

A. A custom tour would seem to be what you are after as first-time visitors to Italy. Such tours can consist of an entire trip - with all meals, hotels, transportation and guides arranged for - or a few hours with a private guide in each city (personal guides can often be found through a city's tourism office).

Road to Italy, based in Toronto, has been offering both escorted and private customized tours for 20 years. While it includes a suggested Rome, Florence and Venice itinerary on its Web site, ten (10) day tours can be modified in any way you like (for example, you could add Milan). The itinerary offers a mix of guided tours and free days during which you can wander on your own, or take excursions to nearby points of interest such as Pompeii or Capri from Rome, or Siena or Pisa from Florence. The company, with offices in Rome and Siena, hires local licensed guides.

Estimated prices for a 10-day custom tour next year depend on your choice of hotels: $1,325 a person, double occupancy, for a three-star hotel, $1,740 for four-star and $3,290 for five-star accommodations. Land transportation is included, as are any excursions (a private guide is extra).

Information: (800) 848-8163; http://www.roadtoitaly.com/.

Provided by FLORENCE STICKNEY

Road to Italy offers a wide selection of travel packages from traditional to unique and unusual. Hotels, villas, castles, farms or historical homes or apartments for rent. We excel in creating custom private programs and travel arrangements for small to medium sized groups.

We have many programs for special interests - Opera and music, architectural, special wine or cooking vacations, golfing and walking holidays. Our offices in Rome and Toronto are happy assist you at any time. Call our travel expert for information!