Itinerary

1. MON I VENICE

   Morning arrival into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. Here you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in Venice. The balance of the day is at leisure. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at a popular restaurant. (D)

2. TUE I VENICE

   Your morning tour of Venice is on foot and will highlight the Basilica of St. Mark and the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and Piombi Prison. Afternoon is at leisure with enough time for more sightseeing, shopping or relaxation. (B)

3. WED I VENICE I PADUA I MODENA I FLORENCE

   This morning depart Venice and stop in Padua to visit the Basilica of St. Anthony and its art, including the large bronze works of Donatello. Continue your scenic drive to Modena where you’ll be treated to a special balsamic vinegar tasting session plus lunch, featuring local specialties and Lambrusco wine. After lunch continue to Florence, the home of Michelangelo. (B,L)

4. THU I FLORENCE

   Your morning tour takes you to Michelangelo Square for a panoramic view of the city. Then visit: the Accademia to see Michelangelo’s original “David” statue, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery with its “Gates of Paradise” doors, Signoria Square and Santa Croce Church. Enjoy your afternoon exploring the treasures of Florence on your own or embark on an optional tour to Pisa featuring dinner at an authentic farmhouse and winery in the enchanting Tuscan countryside. (B)

5. DAY 5 I FRI I FLORENCE I SIENA I SAN GIMIGNANO I FLORENCE

   After breakfast today, head out for a day of discovery to Siena and San Gimignano. Medieval Siena, known for its famed Palio horse races and expansive central Il Campo plaza, awaits your exploration. Visit Siena’s Duomo, considered to be one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in Italy. In San Gimignano, stroll the oldworld center and take in the fascinating architecture and towers that offer amazing views of the city and the surrounding valley. Tonight, enjoy a festive dinner with wine and music at a charming villa located on a beautiful Tuscan hillside outside Florence. (B,D)

6. DAY 6 I SAT I FLORENCE I MAGIONE I ASSISI I ROME

   Morning departure for Rome. Drive through the serene Tuscan and Umbrian countryside, passing by the shores of Lake Trasimeno with a stop at the Magione Castle, presently the private residence of the Prince and Grand Master of Sovereign Military Order of the Knights of Malta. Here a wine expert will lecture on the vinification process that takes place at the castle, followed by a delicious tasting of the varieties of wines produced there and a light lunch. Continue to Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy your guided tour of St. Francis Basilica. Arrive in Rome in the late afternoon. (B,L)

7. SUN I ROME

   Rome is filled with monuments, fountains, antiquities and other sites worth exploring. Use this free day to discover, on your own, all the Eternal City has to offer. Take an optional tour or discover why Roman trattorias are famous for their fine cuisine. (B)

8. MON I ROME

   This morning, experience a very special privately guided tour of the priceless collection of art and treasures in the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum. Then proceed to the Piazza Venezia and Roman Forum, with a stop at the Colosseum – a testament to the greatness of Rome’s past. Continue your full day tour by viewing the Arch of Constantine, Circus Maximus, the Great Synagogue, Isola Tiberina and Castel Sant’Angelo. Tonight bid arrivederci to Rome at a special dinner with wine in a lovely Roman restaurant. (B,D)

9. TUE I ROME TO USA (OR EXTEND YOUR STAY)

   Morning transfer to airport for your return flight home. (B)