Italian Glory

Stylish Baveno is your launchpad to the Italian Lakes where you'll spend the first night of our leisurely jaunt through Italy. After arriving in Lake Maggiore, unwind and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Admire the mesmerising reflection of the surrounding peaks in the deep blue waters which make this one of Italy's most soul-stirring settings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll past exquisite lakeside villas and gardens before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner. (D) Stay: Simplon

The runways of Milan take centre stage today as you explore the fashion capital of Italy. Join a Local Specialist to see both the iconic and unexpected highlights of this hardworking city. Behold the exquisite Gothic architecture of the Duomo, decorated with over 3,400 sculptures, the neoclassical La Scala Opera House and ornate Galleria with its imposing iron and glass-domed roof—all in the company of the trendsetting Milanese.

Head to the town of Como and stroll along the lakeside or wander the pretty streets, shop for silk scarves, or soak up the atmosphere in a cafe. (B)

The tragic story of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers is revealed during our visit to romantic Verona, today. View the remarkably preserved Roman Arena, a venue of entertainment for nearly 2,000 years, once the stage for gladiator battles and now host to modern-day open-air concerts. Indulge in a leisurely cappuccino stop in the city's beautiful Piazza Bra, admiring the imposing bronze statue of King Victor Emanuel II. Or shop up a storm on trendy Via Mazzini before continuing to Venice, where you'll spend the next two nights. (B/D) Stay: Le Boulevard Lido

Glide through the canals of Venice by private launch visiting some of the jewels in the crown of the 'Queen of the Adriatic'. On your unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you'll witness the centuries-old Venetian tradition of glassblowing. Watch as the master craftsmen shape the molten glass into the exquisite works of art for which Venice is justifiably famous, then it's on to St. Mark's Square to admire the profound beauty of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. See the Bridge of Sighs, so named because of the sound prisoners would make when taking one last longing look at their beloved city before being imprisoned.

Later, you'll have the rest of the day to indulge your inner explorer and discover the many treasures of Venice your way, or consider an optional experience to the island of Burano, renowned for its colourful fishermen houses. (B)

From Venice, cross the Apennine Mountains to Florence, the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. Consider joining your Travel Director for a traditional Florentine dinner in the heart of the Chianti Hills. (B) Stay: FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo

This morning, join a Local Specialist on a leisurely walking tour to delve into the culture and history of Florence. You'll visit the Piazza del Duomo to view the multi-coloured marble Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza della Signoria with its exquisite art and palazzi, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge that has straddled the Arno River for almost 700 years. Admire spectacular views of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Later, learn about the quality and workmanship of two of this city's historic industries at demonstrations of Florentine leathercraft and 18-carat gold. This afternoon, consider an optional experience to visit hilltop San Gimignano. Join your fellow travellers this evening for a Be My Guest experience set against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves. (B/D)

Journey south through the Arno Valley, passing the Bay of Naples bound for Maiori on the Amalfi Coast, where you'll spend the next three nights. This evening, dine with your fellow travellers. (B/D) Stay: San Pietro Maiori

This morning, travel to Amalfi, perched perfectly on this dramatic stretch of coastline. See the 10th-century Sant'Andrea cathedral with its beautifully striped Byzantine facade in the heart of the town and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Continue your exploration of the Amalfi Coast by joining an Optional Experience to beautiful Positano. (B)

Relax at your hotel on the Amalfi Coast or wander past fragrant lemon terraces. You have a full free day to indulge in your heart's desires – consider a fresh seafood lunch, from sea to table, or take a dip in the welcoming, warm Mediterranean waters. (B)

Embark on a walking tour with a Local Specialist and discover the lost city of Pompeii, which was buried under volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Continue to the 'Eternal City' of Rome, enjoying views of the 6th-century Benedictine Abbey in Cassino en route. Spend the evening exploring the extraordinary heritage of Rome, which spans millennia, or consider an optional experience to see the exquisite art and architecture of this one-time capital of the world. (B) Stay: Il Cantico

Spend the morning in the Vatican City with a Local Specialist, visiting the imposing St. Peter's Basilica to view Michelangelo's sorrowful Pietà. Then, cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome to visit the Colosseum.

This afternoon, you'll have time to explore the city on your own terms. Perhaps toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to secure your return to Rome, soak up the coffee aromas on Piazza Navona or wander through the ruins of Palatine Hill. (B)

Indulge in a full free day to explore the passionate embrace of the city and its zesty locals. Ease into la dolce vita, or consider an Optional Experience to Tivoli, where you can visit Villa d'Este with its magnificent Renaissance gardens and exquisite fountains. This evening, enjoy dinner with newfound friends and your Travel Director before bidding arrivederci to Rome. (B/D)

Your unforgettable encounter with Italy comes to an end today. (B)