Italian Discovery

Our exploration of Rome begins at the Vatican Museums where we have priority admission, allowing entry to view the masterpieces collected by Popes throughout the centuries. Dive Into Culture during an included sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist, admire Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and visit St. Peter's Basilica to see his famous Pietà. Crossing the Tiber, we venture to Ancient Rome to see where hundreds of thousands of spectators would cheer chariot riders to victory at Circus Maximus followed by a visit to the imposing Colosseum.

Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the magnificent sights of what was once the capital of the world, or kick back in a piazza soaking up the aromas of fine coffee while you watch the world go by. (B)

Today we drive north through rolling Tuscan landscapes to the Renaissance city of Florence. Beauty and artistry seep through the walls of the city’s exquisite palazzi, churches and bridges. Embark on a walking tour with your Local Specialist. Visit the Piazza della Signoria, which once lay at the heart of the flourishing Florentine Republic, then admire the exquisite marble Duomo and famous Baptistery renowned for its bronze doors with relief sculptures. Learn about the quality and workmanship of one of this city's historic industries at a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft.

Later, enjoy some free time on your own before this evening, we Connect With Locals during dinner at a Be My Guest experience with Count Miari Fulcis on his 15th-century organic olive oil estate in the Tuscan hills. (B/BMG) Stay: Ambasciatori

A short journey brings us to Pisa and its Square of Miracles, home to the famous Leaning Tower, ornate Baptistery and Cathedral. We continue northwards, past the marble quarries of Carrara and the resort hubs of Portofino, Rapallo and Genoa in Liguria before arriving in sophisticated Turin.

This afternoon, we venture through the grand boulevards of this aristocratic city during an orientation drive which will reveal the impressive Castello del Valentino and Po River, the longest in Italy. (B) Stay: Concord

We leave Turin and continue to the Italian lakes for a stop at Lake Como. Then it's on to the economic powerhouse that is Milan, where we'll enjoy a walking tour with a Local Specialist to explore the city's spectacular sights. We view the ornate Duomo, one of the grandest Gothic cathedrals in the world, the ancient Galleria shopping arcade and the celebrated La Scala Opera House.

This evening, join your companions for a delicious Regional Dinner at a local restaurant. (B/RD) Stay: Starhotels Business Palace

Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers feature on our stop in Verona where we'll view Juliet's Balcony and the first-century ancient Roman arena still in use today. Crossing the Veneto plains, we arrive in what was once the haunt of Casanova and Marco Polo, enchanting Venice. (B/D) Stay: Viktoria Palace Lido

Dive Into Culture and witness first-hand the exquisite tradition of Venetian glassblowing - a tradition that spans centuries. Your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps to preserve this age-old tradition passed down through the generations. You’ll be tempted to buy a souvenir to remind you of their skill and talent after watching them work their magic.

Later, board a private launch and cruise to the gateway of Venice, St. Mark's Square - our introduction to such sights as the Doge's Palace and the Byzantine Basilica. Enjoy free time to explore Venice. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys, over its bridges and into quiet squares, seeking out a quiet bacaro for some of the famous refreshing Venetian Spritz, which the locals love to take the edge of the heat of the afternoon. (B)