Italian Concerto
12 Days from $2,995 per person
The tragic story of Pompeii takes center stage on this journey from Rome, south to the trendy Amalfi Coast and north to Venice via Florence. Take a walking tour past the ruins of the Amphitheater, Temple of Apollo and Basilica, and hear how the 79AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius destroyed the city, fatally claiming its inhabitants and burying it under tons of ash.
Overview
The tragic story of Pompeii takes center stage on this journey from Rome, south to the trendy Amalfi Coast and north to Venice via Florence. Take a walking tour past the ruins of the Amphitheater, Temple of Apollo and Basilica, and hear how the 79AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius destroyed the city, fatally claiming its inhabitants and burying it under tons of ash.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Rome (3 Nights)
Ease into la dolce vita and embrace excess on this At Leisure jaunt through the highlights of Italy, which begins in Rome. On arrival to Rome Fiumicino Airport transfers will operate at 9.30am, 12.30pm and 3.30pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Spend the day soaking up its sumptuous flavors and striking cityscape before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers at a Welcome Reception. We enjoy a leisurely orientation through the city this evening to see such highlights as St. Peter's Basilica, crossing the Tiber into Ancient Rome before our gentle meander through Italy begins.
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Day 3: Rome Sightseeing and At Leisure
Journey to the Vatican City this morning in the company of a Local Specialist who will help you uncover the extraordinary masterpieces created by artists inspired by the Divine. We venture into Ancient Rome, to the site of exhilarating chariot races and visit inside the imposing Colosseum after which we have time to explore this glorious city on our own terms. Walk up the Palatine Hill to the ruins of Flavian Palace, see the House of Nero and the ruins of Trajan's baths, or visit the Castel Sant'Angelo, built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian centuries ago. -
Day 4: Rome At Leisure
Discover why the Italians say "it is sweet doing nothing" spending your day watching Rome's beautiful people embrace life lived to its fullest in the exquisite Piazza Navona. Delve into the treasures spanning millennia – the fascinating museums, churches, gardens and architecture that remain as the enduring symbols of a powerful city. Or perhaps consider an Optional Experience to Tivoli, site of the magnificent Villa d'Este. -
Day 5: Rome – Cassino – Pompeii – Amalfi Coast (Maiori) (3 Nights)
Today we pay homage at the Commonwealth War Cemetery to the thousands of brave souls whose final resting place was the battlefield of Monte Cassino and view the 6th century Abbey that was destroyed during World War II. We venture south, to a city frozen in time, joining a Small Group Sightseeing tour through the excavations of Pompeii that yield the tragic story of a once vibrant city engulfed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Wander down the stone avenues past such sights as the Amphitheater, Forum and Temple of Apollo. We arrive later at our hotel on the iconic Mediterranean Amalfi Coast where we'll dine tonight. -
Day 6: Amalfi Coast At Leisure
Today is yours to explore, consider joining an Optional Experience along the Amalfi Coast to the beautiful clifftop seaside villages of Positano. Later, perhaps soak up the extraordinary beauty of Ravello that has long inspired musicians, writers and artists, and smell the fresh scents of lemons as you meander alongside cliffside terraces and indulge in the picture-perfect setting. After a day of sightseeing, spend a relaxing evening sipping limoncello and watching the sky light up in glorious pinks, yellows and blues over the Bay of Salerno.
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Day 7: Amalfi Town and Isle of Capri Excursion
This morning, we have free time to wander around the medieval town of Amalfi and its spectacular 11th century Romanesque Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, the campanile and convent of the Cappuccini. Later, we set sail to the glamorous Island of Capri, ascending to Capri Town by funiculare for a guided walking tour with a Local Specialist who will share magnificent views of the charming Marina Piccola and famous Piazzetta, the heart and soul of this beautiful town. -
Day 8: Amalfi Coast (Maiori) – Florence (2 Nights)
From Amalfi, we travel north through the rolling green and golden landscape of Umbria into scenic Tuscany before arriving in the Renaissance city of Florence. Spend this evening at leisure, ambling along the picturesque Arno River, enjoying the famous city skyline at night from Piazzale Michelangelo, or indulging in the finest antipasti in town. -
Day 9: Florence Sightseeing and At Leisure
Experience a city renowned for its art, architecture and cultural treasures, which you will have an opportunity to explore with your Local Specialist who will show you the city highlights including views of the exquisite marble Duomo and Baptistery. Wander through the Piazza della Signoria, the center of Florentine political life since the 14th century with its amazing sculptures and prominent Palazzo Vecchio overlooking the square. Later join your companions for an authentic Be My Guest dinner at an unforgettable castle venue set within a celebrated wine and olive oil estate. -
Day 10: Florence – Ferrara – Venice (2 Nights)
The breathtaking scenery follows our journey north, across the Appenines via Bologna to the family home of the notorious d'Este family in Ferrara, a charming Renaissance city set within medieval walls. We continue meandering north to our stop for the next two nights, the exquisite Queen of the Adriatic. -
Day 11: Venice Orientation and At Leisure
Glide through the bustling canals of Venice on board a private launch to experience the extraordinary sights and sounds of this island city. Experience first-hand the centuries-old craft of glassmaking during an unforgettable Cultural Insight on the island of Giudecca, before arriving at the gateway to the city, St. Mark's Square. Our love affair with Venice continues as we view St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs, before enjoying a Farewell Dinner with our Travel Director and newfound friends to toast to the delicious flavors of Italy. -
Day 12: Depart Venice
For now our leisurely encounter with an extraordinary destination has come to an end. Return transfers will arrive at Venice’s Marco Polo Airport at 8am and 9.30am. Conditions apply.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
- Solo Traveler Discount
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 Jul 18 | 9 Aug 18 |
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$3,025pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Aug 18 | 16 Aug 18 |
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$3,025pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 12 Aug 18 | 23 Aug 18 |
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$2,995pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 2 Sep 18 | 13 Sep 18 |
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$3,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 2 Sep 18 | 13 Sep 18 |
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$3,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 Sep 18 | 27 Sep 18 |
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$3,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 23 Sep 18 | 4 Oct 18 |
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$3,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 23 Sep 18 | 4 Oct 18 |
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$3,325pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 Sep 18 | 11 Oct 18 |
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$3,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 7 Oct 18 | 18 Oct 18 |
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$3,250pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
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Solo Traveler Discount
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14 Oct 18 | 25 Oct 18 |
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$3,250pp | Request Quote Book Now |
- Solo Traveler Discount: This departure includes a 25-100% discount on standard single supplement subject to availability.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $750 p.p.
Triple Room Discount: $120 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $100 per person.
Airport transfers: On arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport transfers will operate at 9:30 am, 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport at 8:00 am and 9:30 am.
Cruise Connection: This trip starts or ends in a popular cruise port, so you can combine a cruise with a more in-depth guided vacation in Europe.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Personal Flight Options
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Most Meals
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Hotel Tips
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
Meal Summary
10 nights, 10 hot buffet breakfasts, 4 dinners.
Included Highlights
Be My Guest
- The Pazzi and de Medici feud is brought to light in this visit to the 12th century Castle of Trebbio where you will enjoy a traditional Tuscan buffet, explore the castle dungeons, and indulge in olive oil and wine tasting
Cultural Insight
- Witness the exquisite craft of glassblowing on Giudecca Island, a delicate tradition that generations of Venetian craftsmen have perfected over the centuries
Small Group Sightseeing
- A guided walking tour of Pompeii with a group size of no more than 25 guests
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Rome, Pompeii, Capri and Florence
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Florence
- Orientation of Amalfi Town, Venice
- Visit St. Peter's Basilica and the Colosseum in Rome, the ruins of Pompeii, the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Cassino
- Cruise to the beautiful Isle of Capri, private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
- View the ancient sites in Rome, the Benedictine Abbey in Cassino, the Duomo in Florence, the Byzantine St. Mark's Basilica
- See the home of the d'Este family in Ferrara
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). While it’s a good idea to bring some euros for when you first arrive in Italy, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate when you arrive in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Italy. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
While Italy is most famous for pizza and pasta, few travelers are aware of just how varied the country’s culinary offering actually are. In fact, each of the 20 regions has its own distinctive cuisine. Traditionally, lunch (pranzo) is the most substantial meal of the day. A full meal consists of antipasto (starter), a primo piatto (pasta, rice or soup), a secondo piatto (meat or fish) with a side, or contorno (vegetable or salad), then frutta (fresh fruit). Finish with espresso and maybe a limoncello or grappa. Wine is usually served with the meal, accompanied by mineral water. Tap water is safe to drink, but not always tasty. We recommend you buy bottled mineral water. ‘Acqua non potabile’ means the water is not safe to drink. Find out about some local specialties to try in Italy’s top destinations below.
Florence
Food in Florence is simple and humble, and relies on the fresh ingredients of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Many of the local recipes have evolved from peasant dishes to international favorites. Bread is an important staple in Florentine cooking, and is featured in everything from antipasti (appetizers) such as bruschetta to traditional main dishes. Panzanella is a popular summer salad prepared with day old crusty bread and tomatoes. Papa al pomodoro is a delicious soup made with bread, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. You’ll also find a variety of dishes featuring white beans, including the hearty ribollita soup. But the flagship of Florentine cuisine remains the famous bistecca alla fiorentina (T-bone steak). For a sweet finish, meals are topped off with traditional cantuccini (almond cookies) and the local vin santo dessert wine.
Venice
A visit to Venice offers an opportunity to discover a variety of truly unique gastronomic traditions. Venetians have a long-standing tradition of eating cicchetti, small bites similar to Spanish tapas. You can enjoy a variety of these before lunch or dinner, paired with a glass of local wine at restaurants and bars around town. Other common dishes include polenta, risotto with peas, salted cod, sardines, and local bigoli pasta.
Rome
Roman cuisine is deeply rooted in the past. Despite the city’s imperial history, the food in Rome and the surrounding Lazio region is anything but refined. Humble pasta dishes such as carbonara, amatriciana, aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil) and cacio e peppe (pecorino cheese and pepper) are local favorites served in trattorias around town. Other foods to try in Rome include pizza, a variety of fritti (fritters) made with everything from salted cod to zucchini flours, stewed oxtail, suppli (rice and Bolognese sauce croquettes) and sharp pecorino cheese. For dessert, try crostata di ricotta (Italian cheesecake) or zeppole (donuts).
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Packing
In Italy, the weather changes very quickly, with temperatures varying from morning to night. We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Keep in mind that your shoulders and knees should be covered while visiting religious sites. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
At bars and restaurants, tipping is less common or generous as in the U.S. When dining out, it’s appropriate, although not required, to leave an extra euro or two for your waiter.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Rome
Piazzas and Fountains of Rome
Adult Price: €33.00
Discover the most charming areas in the city with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares of Rome's historic centre, leading to highlights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, as well as hidden corners of the Eternal City.
Tivoli And Gardens Of The Villa D’Este
Adult Price: €45.00
Visit the ancient Sabine town of Tivoli to enjoy the gardens and fountains of the Villa D’Este. You’ll get to see its grottos and pavilions, the Avenue of a Hundred Fountains, and the Dragon Fountain of the Organ.
Inside The Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel
Adult Price: €55.00
Join us for an extension to your included sightseeing tour, which gives you a chance to see the artistic masterpieces collected and commissioned by the Popes. You’ll visit the Tapestry Gallery, Gallery of Maps and the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo spent four years preparing the vault and altar wall, and we give you plenty of time to admire just how much painstaking work went into his creations.
Delights of Rome with Dinner
Adult Price: €49.00
Spend an evening getting to know Rome. We’ll take you via coach where you’ll have the chance to see some of the city’s much-loved sights. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a delicious light dinner of Italian specialities, alongside local music and drinks.
Amalfi
Amalfi Coast and Positano
Adult Price: €46.00
Join us as we take in delightful villages and spectacular scenery along the incredible Amalfi Coast. You’ll visit the celebrated town of Positano, which is also a Unesco World Heritage site. There will be time to shop for local goods or enjoy a drink in a cafe overlooking the beach.
Explore Ravello
Adult Price: €40.00
Join us on a trip to the balcony of the Amalfi coast. Ravello is perched high above the terraced groves with breathtaking views. Your Local Specialist will show you the gardens of the Villa Rufolo, which inspired Wagner, and you’ll have free time to visit the 11th century cathedral.
Dinner On The Amalfi Coast
Adult Price: €64.00
Come with us for a short drive to a restaurant we know and love on the Amalfi Coast. You'll get to try some locally-loved dishes and drinks, all served alongside Neapolitan hospitality and beautiful views.
The Highlights of Capri
Adult Price: €41.00
Why not take in more amazing views of Capri by joining us as we ascend to Anacapri? Here, on the highest part of the island, you'll have the option of visiting the Villa and spectacular gardens of Swedish Doctor Axel Munthe or you can choose to head to the summit of ‘Monte Solaro” by cable car for a 360 degree view of the island.
Florence
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli
Adult Price: €65.00
A scenic drive into the Chianti hills, past vineyards, brings us to a delightful hamlet overlooked by an imposing castle. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince’. After a welcome drink and visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, we'll enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa’s own vines. This is the essence of all great things Tuscan, past and present, condensed into one memorable evening!
Visit To San Gimignano
Adult Price: €36.00
Join us for a drive to the nearby hilltop town of San Gimignano, known as the ‘medieval Manhattan’ of Tuscany. Surrounded by fields of sunflowers, vineyards and olive groves, this is Italy’s best preserved medieval city and will give you a taste of day-to-day life in Italy during the Middle Ages.
Dinner, Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills
Adult Price: €64.00
Join us for a scenic drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We will enjoy a meal at a charming restaurant where a selection of regional favourites is served, accompanied by a selection of local wines and live music. A truly unforgettable experience, with an atmosphere that is the essence of all things Tuscan.
Venice
Venice's Secrets and St. Mark's Basilica
Adult Price: €36.00
Explore the hidden maze of streets which make up this unique city as your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating insight into Venice's past and present. You’ll visit the majestic Basilica of St Mark, where you’ll have a chance to view some of the prized trophies looted by the Venetians in their rise to power. Alternatively, we’ll visit the outside terrace for exceptional vistas.
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks
Adult Price: €70.00
Join us as we discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You will enjoy a delicious meal with a selection of drinks on the fishermen's island of Burano, famous for its multi-coloured houses - a real photographer's paradise.
Gondolas and the Grand Canal
Adult Price: €70.00
Join us for a scenic cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal. You’ll admire the magnificent palazzi, as well as catching a glimpse of the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Later on, you'll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice’s dreamy, narrow waterways.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
