Day 1, Sunday, arrive in Venice

Arriving at Venice’s airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure until you gather for a Welcome Dinner with your Tour Director and traveling companions. (D)

Day 2, Monday, in Venice

We begin exploring Venice with a boat ride to Murano Island, famous for its artistic glassware. Visit a glassblowing factory, where you will watch a demonstration of traditional Venetian glassblowing by master craftsmen. Then, on to St. Mark’s Square, for the walking tour, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and enjoying views of the Bell Tower and Bridge of Sighs. The balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy Venice at your own pace, shop, or join an optional gondola ride. (B)

Day 3, Tuesday, to Ferrara, Pisa, and Florence

Drive to Ferrara, a Renaissance gem in the Emilia-Romagna region, standing on the banks of the Po River. After an orientation tour, continue to Pisa where you’ll view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Duomo. Then on to Florence for dinner and a free evening. (B, D)

Day 4, Wednesday, Florence

This morning begins with a city tour of the majestic Piazza del Duomo to see the Cathedral crowned by Brunelleschi’s awe-inspiring Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s splendid bronze “Gates of Paradise.” Then, visit the Academy of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo’s David is displayed. The tour ends at the Piazzale Michelangelo with a spectacular view over Florence. The remainder of the day is yours to savor the Renaissance splendor of the Tuscan capital your own way. (B)

Day 5, Thursday, to Assisi and Rome

Day 6, Friday, in Rome

Day 7, Saturday, in Rome 

Day 8, Sunday, depart Rome