Enjoy a curated introduction to Rome’s iconic landmarks, starting with fast-tracked entry into the Vatican Museums. With your Local Expert, explore the vast Papal art collection, then enter the Sistine Chapel to take in Michelangelo’s masterpiece. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, a triumph of Renaissance architecture. Later, cross the Tiber River into ancient Rome to see the Circus Maximus, once home to dramatic chariot races, and see the mighty Colosseum, the enduring symbol of Imperial power. On some departures, access to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums may be restricted. You’ll still enjoy the atmosphere of St. Peter’s Square during your visit to the Vatican City, and if tickets are unavailable to the Vatican Museums, you’ll instead explore the Capitoline Museums, home to iconic Roman art and archaeology.
Explore Florence with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. After, continue on foot to admire the multicoloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. Continue into the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune and Hercules and Cacus along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Alternatively, take a stroll with your Travel Director to enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local cafe.
Spend time exploring the maze of alleyways and admire scenic views across the valley. Ascend serpentine alleyways to the artisan gelato parlor of world champion gelato maestro, Sergio Dondoli, for a taste of his finest frozen treats.
Drive through the patchwork of vines, olives and cypresses that typify the Chianti hills before continuing to Pisa and see the incredible Leaning Tower, from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. See the splendid cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble. Next, journey to the sea and cruise along the rugged Ligurian coast to the elegant seaside village of Portofino, the epitome of la dolce vita (should weather permit). Finish your journey in the charming seaside resort of Santa Margherita Ligure, a true gem on the coast.
Head to Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s most stunning landscapes. Cruise along the Cinque Terre coastline (weather permitting) with your Local Expert, passing rugged cliffs and pastel-hued villages perched above the Ligurian Sea. Arrive by boat at one of the region’s historic fishing communities and enjoy a Sea-to-Table lunch, prepared with the day’s local catch. Afterwards, explore at your own pace — wander cobbled lanes, browse artisan boutiques or unwind at a cafe overlooking the village square.
Head north to the beautiful Italian Lake District, a favorite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with lush vegetation. Relax and enjoy an afternoon at leisure at this popular resort and beautiful lake.
Travel through the stunning northern Italian countryside to one of the world’s most breathtaking wine regions. The vineyards around Conegliano Veneto produce Italy’s most prized sparkling wine. Be tempted with a taste of the crisp and aromatic flavor of prosecco. Continue through the Dolomites, where soaring peaks and breathtaking Alpine vistas accompany your journey to the elegant mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled amid some of Italy’s most spectacular scenery.
The whole day is free for you to explore the colorful peaks and sheer valleys of the Dolomites, one of the most impressive mountain ranges in the Alps. During summer, once the snow and ice have melted away, a breathtaking landscape is revealed. There are walking tracks through pristine alpine wilderness for the adventurous to explore. For a more relaxed pace, perhaps take an Optional Experience to the summit of one of the peaks for sweeping panoramic views? You may also choose an Optional Experience through the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites for dinner at a local restaurant.
Descend through the mountains to the romantic city of Venice. A private boat glides you past canals lined with ornate palaces to St. Mark’s Square. See the Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs, before checking into your luxurious hotel. Join a visit to a Venetian glassblowing workshop, where you’ll see how beautiful, handcrafted glass is made by expert artisans, preserving this centuries-old tradition. With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, why not cruise the Lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
This morning, on your romantic gondola serenade, glide along the atmospheric canals exploring the intimate and hidden parts of this unique city while musicians set the mood with traditional songs. Later, enjoy the magical atmosphere of this incredible city at your own pace. Mingle with the locals at the open air markets near the Rialto Bridge and explore the back lanes and squares where Venetians go about their day. This evening, indulge in traditional Venetian dishes that are enriched with inspiration from seasonal produce during a magical dinner.
Your departure transfer arrives at Venice Marco Polo Airport. Here, you’ll say goodbye to your Travel Director and fellow travelers as your unforgettable Italian journey comes to an end.