The Best of Italy

Passengers who purchase flights will depart 1 day before the tour starts and return on the same day as the tour ends.

For flight details, see Before You Depart.

Welcome to beautiful Italy! After arrival, continue to our hotel. This evening, our Tour Director hosts an orientation, followed by a welcome dinner with wine.

First, embark on a boat tour to the island of Murano, world-renowned for its long tradition of glass craftsmanship. Back in Venice, a local guide will bring this remarkable city to life as you explore on foot Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square); the golden, Byzantine Basilica di San Marco (Saint Mark’s Basilica); the lavish Doge’s Palace; and the famous Bridge of Sighs. This afternoon, lose yourself in Venice as you explore cobblestone streets, marveling at attractions and shopping for unique crafts and souvenirs. Don’t miss the chance to take an optional gondola ride. See Optional Tours for details.

Today, travel south to Pisa, and view the famous Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) and the amazing Leaning Tower of Pisa, that legendary Pisa Cathedral bell tower with its around 4-degree slant. Then, we’ll visit a Tuscan countryside farm for a wine tasting and sampling of local specialties. Later, arrive in Florence, the splendid capital of Tuscany.

This morning’s tour of Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, starts with an incredible, panoramic vista from Michelangelo Square. Proceed to the Galleria dell'Accademia (Accademia Gallery of Fine Arts), which houses Michelangelo’s iconic marble statue, David. We’ll also enjoy sculpture-filled Piazza della Signoria (Signoria Square), the magnificent Duomo (cathedral) and Ponte Vecchio, the “Old Bridge,” lined with craft shops. Your afternoon is at leisure to check out local museums or stroll along the scenic Arno River. Tonight, a special treat awaits. We’ll head to the hills surrounding Florence to savor a typical dinner, complete with wine and local entertainment, at a picturesque Tuscan villa.

Travel through the stunning landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria to the wonderfully preserved medieval hill town of Assisi, the birthplace of Saint Francis, founder of the Franciscan religious order. We’ll see fabled pilgrimage site the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, where he is interred, and elaborate frescoes from artist Giotto. Late afternoon, arrive in Rome, “The “Eternal City,” and settle into your centrally located hotel.

In the morning, dig up and in to Imperial Rome. Listen to the echoes of centuries of gladiatorial combat and public spectacles in the Colosseum. Walk under the Arch of Constantine, and marvel at the ruins of the Roman Forum, the day-to-day heart of ancient Rome. Your afternoon is at leisure to explore the city’s elaborate piazzas and fountains on your own.

Experience one of Christendom’s most sacred places this morning: the Vatican. Visits include awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica (erected over the apostle’s tomb), the gloriously painted Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum (abundant with priceless collections of art and treasures). In the late afternoon you will experience a culinary walking tour in Trastevere area, where you will have the opportunity to chat with our expert foodie guide in order to gain a better understanding of Italian culture and traditions and experience life as a Roman and to do as the Romans do on a typical evening out. Tonight, you are our guest at a lavish gala dinner at a typical Roman restaurant, complete with wine and entertainment. Cap your evening with an included tour of illuminated Rome by night.

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast today. Travelers who purchased our air-inclusive package will say "ciao" to Italy as we transfer to the airport for our return flight to the U.S.