Day 1 : Italy Bound

Our tour begins with an overnight flight to Italy.

Day 2 : Padua

We arrive in Milan and transfer to Padua, where our knowledgeable Italian guide and driver greet us upon our arrival. This historic city is known for its beauty, world-renowned university, and as the setting for Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. Our evening concludes with a fantastic Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Venice

Enjoy a delicious Italian breakfast before starting our journey to Venice. Our tour begins at the Piazza San Marco, where we discover some of the best-known examples of Byzantine architecture. This city centerpiece features the Basilica di San Marco; former royal residence, the Doge’s Palace; and Bridge of Sighs. Afterward, take time at leisure to explore the vibrant city on your own. We then experience a famed gondola ride on Venice’s charming waterways and wrap up our day in the Floating City with an included dinner.

Day 4 : Tuscany

We depart this morning for the Tuscany region, crossing the Apennine Mountains. Along the way, we stop to explore Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with elegant palaces dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Arrive this evening in the historic city of Florence, our home for the next two nights, and taste its famous regional cuisine with an included dinner.

Day 5 : Florence

Today we embark on a walking tour of Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance and home to many of the world’s greatest artistic treasures. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia and view incredible masterpieces including Michelangelo’s famous David statue. Admire the Duomo, the largest brick dome ever constructed, and gaze upon Ghiberti’s famous bronze doors of the Baptistery, often referred to as the Gates of Paradise. We enjoy time on our own this afternoon to visit the area museums, indulge in a fresh gelato, or browse shops of Ponte Vecchio, a famous covered bridge housing many local vendors. To truly appreciate Florence’s beauty, we conclude the day with a scenic illuminated walk through the city center.

Day 6 : San Gimignano

After an included breakfast, we travel south through Tuscany and soak in the picturesque groves of olive trees and vineyards. We stop in the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano, also known as the Town of Fine Towers, best recognized by its 14 magnificent towers and 13th-century encircling walls. Explore this spectacular community’s deep history and rich culture from the Middle Ages on a guided tour. Later, we arrive in the eternal city of Rome and check in to our hotel for the next three nights. A delicious dinner nearby is included this evening.

Day 7 : Vatican & The Sistine Chapel

Our day begins with a guided tour of the famous Vatican Museums, featuring some of the most renowned classical sculptures and Renaissance art in the world. Explore the Vatican’s many galleries culminating with the remarkable Sistine Chapel. Truly a magnificent sight to behold, the iconic ceiling fresco was painted by Michelangelo. Our visit to Vatican City continues with a special tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most extraordinary churches in the world and home to the Catholic Church. Discover the immense history and relics, including the Altar of the Sacred Heart, the Chair of Saint Peter, and Michelangelo’s Piéta. Time at leisure this afternoon provides opportunities to see Saint Peter's Square, climb the Spanish Steps, visit the Pantheon, or explore the statues and cafés of Piazza Navona.

Day 8 : Ancient Rome

Today’s adventure brings us through the fascinating sights and landmarks of ancient Rome. Begin with a visit to one of the most celebrated monuments of the Roman Empire and the largest amphitheatre in the world, The Colosseum. Learn about the many uses of this legendary arena and walk the same steps of the ancient gladiators. Next, tour the Roman Forum, once the governmental and financial center of the city, and home today to several of the best-preserved pieces of architecture including the Arch of Constantine. We complete our tour today with the stunning Trevi Fountain. Completed in 1762, it is one of the most prominent fountains in the world. According to legend, tossing a coin into the fountain ensures your return visit to Rome. Tonight, we gather for a special Farewell Dinner with live musical entertainment to celebrate our wonderful Italian adventure.

Day 9 : Fly Home

After an included breakfast, we travel home with fond memories.