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 travel companions and Travel Director for a memorable Welcome Reception. Your introduction to la dolce vita begins with a short walk this evening to see the timeless Roman Colosseum and the ancient centre of Rome – the Forum.

We embark on a very special included 'Dive Into Culture' sightseeing tour with our Local Specialist at the Vatican this morning. Skip the queue and wander through its Museums, Sistine Chapel and Gardens, admiring the artistry of great masters and walking in the footsteps of popes who have found peace within its beautiful green landscapes for centuries. We'll enjoy a rare opportunity to board a train within the Vatican Walls bound for the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo, the Pope's Summer Residence. Here, we'll embark on a tour through its beautifully manicured green heart before enjoying an included lunch against the backdrop of this enchanting setting.

The narrow lanes and expansive piazze of Rome are yours to explore today. Ask your Travel Director for tips on what to see and do, or consider an Optional Experience delving into the fascinating history of Pompeii.

This morning meet with your Local Specialist to visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Then we journey north to the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi where your Local Specialist will take you to the Basilica of St. Francis, the final resting place of this famous saint where we will see Giotto's enchanting frescoes. Later we continue our journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Florence.

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-coloured marble Duomo and Baptistery, before admiring the scenic view of the Ponte Vecchio straddling the Arno River. Learn about the quality and workmanship of two of this city's historic industries at demonstrations of Florentine leathercraft and 18-carat gold. Spend the rest of the afternoon sauntering through the historic centre of Florence, shopping for high-quality leather for which the city is famous, or admiring the artistic contribution of the Medici family at every turn. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to San Gimignano.

After free time 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 beautifully sculpted marble Cathedral. See the ornate Baptistery and the Camposanto, built on sacred soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Your unforgettable encounter with Tuscany continues this evening as you 'Connect With Locals' over a Be My Guest dinner, joining Count Miari Fulcis on his 15th-century organic olive oil estate that has featured in many famous films.

Travel north, through the Apennines, to the medieval city of Bologna, perhaps best known for the delicious spaghetti 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.

'Dive Into Culture' and gain insights into the delicate Venetian art of glassblowing on Giudecca Island. Savour the iconic and unexpected highlights of Venice as you cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square to admire the Bridge of Sighs, Palladian churches, Customs House, St. Mark's Basilica and the ornate Doge's Palace. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Sites made famous in poetry, song and prose are explored today when we join a Local Specialists for a Small Group Sightseeing walking tour. During a leisurely stroll from our hotel along the canals to the famous Rialto Bridge, where all the flavours of Italy are brought to life at a centuries-old food market. Amble through the narrow calli of Venice and admire the beautiful architecture, walking over the Rialto Bridge before spending the rest of the day to visit the sights of your choice. Our love affair with Italy's great Italian cities comes to an end this evening as we enjoy a Farewell Dinner.

For now it's time to say a fond arrivederci to Italy and newfound friends who have shared in the memorable sights, sounds and flavours. Transfers are available. Conditions apply.