Great Italian Cities

You're in for a bellissimo journey through the spectacular cities of Italy, which kicks off in the 'Eternal City' of Rome. Join your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a delightful dinner. Your introduction to la dolce vita begins with an orientation drive past Rome's most magnificent sights.

This morning, join your Local Specialist for a visit to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. Explore the vast collection of the Vatican Museums and stand beneath Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica to view his renowned Pietà. Afterwards, cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome to explore the Colosseum. Learn how this monumental arena once echoed with the sounds of gladiator battles, public events and roaring crowds at the heart of Roman life. Please note: On some departures, access to St. Peter’s Basilica may be restricted due to the Papal Audience. You’ll still have time to take in the atmosphere of St. Peter’s Square during your visit to Vatican City.

Enjoy a full free day to explore Rome your way, or consider an Optional Experience delving into the tragic history of Pompeii—the Roman city frozen in time by the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Your Local Specialist will bring its ancient story to life before you return to Rome, passing by the Abbey of Monte Cassino, a site of fierce fighting during the Second World War.

Journey north through the rolling hills of Umbria to the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi. Here, your Local Specialist will share the story of this revered figure during a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, the final resting place of this famous saint and home to a wonderful series of frescoes by Giotto. Later, continue your journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Florence. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a Be My Guest experience, set against the backdrop of picture-perfect olive groves and vineyards.

Enjoy a leisurely encounter with the artistic and architectural marvels of Florence during your walking tour with a Local Specialist. Visit the striking Piazza della Signoria with its impressive sculptures and palazzi. Amble through the charming cobblestone lanes to the multi-colored marble Duomo and Baptistery, before admiring the scenic view of the Ponte Vecchio straddling the Arno River. Spend the rest of the afternoon sauntering through Florence's historic center, shopping for the high-quality leather the city is famous, or admiring the artistic contribution of the Medici at every turn.

After a morning at leisure in Florence, cross the fertile Arno Valley to Pisa and join a Local Specialist to visit the Square of Miracles, home to the incredible Leaning Tower and the iconic marble cathedral. See the ornate Baptistery and the Camposanto, a monumental cemetery built on sacred soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades.

Travel north, through the Apennines, to the medieval city of Bologna, perhaps best known for the delicious pasta sauce that bears its name. Your sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist includes views of the Kissing Towers, which lean towards each other, seemingly poised to embrace. Then it's off to the romantic island city of Venice with its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Spend time at leisure gliding along its enchanting canals in a gondola or wander through the city's labyrinthine lanes, over bridges and into quiet campi.