B – Breakfast | D – Dinner

Entrance fees are included where indicated in bold

Day 1 – Sunday: Arrive in Venice

You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure until you gather with your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner. (D)

Day 2 – Monday: Explore Venice

We begin our exploration of Venice with a boat ride to Murano Island – renowned for its exquisite artistic glassware. Visit a glassblowing factory, where you can witness a captivating demonstration by master craftsmen, showcasing traditional Venetian glassblowing techniques. Next, we head to St. Mark’s Square for a guided walking tour, admiring the remarkable St. Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace, while taking in the splendid views of the Bell Tower and the Bridge of Sighs. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy Venice at your own pace, indulge in some shopping, or opt for a delightful gondola ride. (B)

Day 3 – Tuesday: Ferrara, Pisa & Florence

Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Ferrara – a Renaissance gem situated on the banks of the Po River in the Emilia-Romagna region. After an orientation tour, we continue to Pisa, where you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the renowned Piazza del Miracoli, home to the Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, and the Duomo. Our journey then takes us to Florence, where we will spend the night. (B)

Day 4 – Wednesday: In Florence

Our day begins with a captivating city tour of the majestic Piazza del Duomo. Marvel at the Cathedral, adorned with Brunelleschi’s awe-inspiring Dome, alongside Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery featuring Ghiberti’s splendid bronze “Gates of Paradise.” Take a stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the famous old bridge. The remainder of the day is yours to immerse yourself in the Renaissance splendor of this Tuscan capital, at your own leisurely pace. (B)

Day 5 – Thursday: To Assisi & Rome

As we journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany, we make our way to Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis. Explore the main square on a captivating walking tour and visit the impressive Basilica of St. Francis. Continuing our journey, we arrive in Rome, where the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. (B)

Day 6 – Friday: In Rome

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Eternal City on a full-day sightseeing tour. Visit the Vatican Museums, including the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and the grand St. Peter’s Basilica. Then, proceed to witness the iconic Colosseum, the ancient Palatine Hill overlooking Circus Maximus and the Imperial Palace, and the historic Roman Forum. (B)

Day 7 – Saturday: Explore Rome

Today, you have the entire day to explore the magnificent city of Rome at your own pace. Your Tour Director will provide recommendations on how to make the most of your time. You may choose to visit chic shops, art galleries, and museums, or continue your sightseeing adventure independently. Alternatively, relax at a sidewalk café, savoring a glass of fine Italian wine, a refreshing Limoncello, indulging in gelato, or enjoying a hearty dish of pasta. In the evening, celebrate your unforgettable journey through Italy with a festive farewell dinner shared with your fellow travelers. (B, D)

Day 8 – Sunday: Depart Rome

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Rome airport for your departure. (B)

Note: Because of the narrow and cobbled streets, walking is the primary way of getting around. Please make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.

Hotels:

• Venice –  NH Santa Lucia (F) or similar
• Florence –  Grand Hotel Adriatico (F) or similar
• Rome  –  Starhotels Metropole (F) or similar

Map

Escorted Tour Map