Italian Holiday

Indulge all your senses in the imperial city of Rome, your introduction to a memorable encounter with Italy that will have you returning for more. Spend your afternoon relaxing after your journey, or explore the ancient city streets before joining your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner. (D) Stay: Crowne Plaza St. Peter's

Your Roman adventure begins with a Dive into Culture, as you join a Local Specialist for an unforgettable visit to the Vatican Museums. Walk in the footsteps of history as you admire the remarkable collection of masterpieces gathered by Popes over centuries. Gaining fast-track admission, you will admire the magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Crossing the Tiber, you'll venture into Ancient Rome and visit the Colosseum. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Rome. Admire the spectacular palaces and piazzas, the Spanish Steps or the Trevi Fountain. (B)

This morning, you'll venture north through the valley of the Tiber into the green and golden landscapes of Umbria. Pass the hilltop towns of Orte and Orvieto, travelling past Tuscany's terraced olive groves and across the Apennine Mountains, bound for Venice, the 'Queen of the Adriatic'. (B/D) Stay: Novotel Venezia Mestre Castellana

Cruise by private launch into the heart of Venice this morning, where you'll see the city's most celebrated sights including the Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, and the ornate Doge's Palace.

Next, witness first-hand the intricate craft of glassblowing – your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps to preserve this precious Venetian tradition for generations to come. Beyond their talent and skill, admire the exquisite pieces Venice is famous for, perhaps choosing to take one home as a souvenir to remind you of this special visit. Soak up the pageantry and elegance of Venice before continuing to Verona,  home of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet. (B) Stay: Leopardi

Your first stop today is Pisa's UNESCO-listed Square of Miracles, where you will have the opportunity to view the Leaning Tower before travelling on to Florence. Explore the birthplace of the Renaissance and home of the Medici dynasty, whose penchant for beautiful art and architecture created one of the world's cultural centres.

Tonight, enjoy a Be My Guest experience set against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves. (B/D) Stay: FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo

Join a Local Specialist today to delve into the rich medieval and Renaissance history of Florence. Your sightseeing tour will take us to the Piazza della Signoria with its impressive sculptures and imposing palazzi. Wandering through the narrow streets, you will encounter the multi-coloured marble Duomo, the famous Baptisteryand the almost 700-year-old Ponte Vecchio, a spectacular feat of engineering from the Middle Ages that is today lined with jewellers.

Your journey continues through Umbria to the valley of the Tiber River and back to Rome. Toast to a memorable holiday with newfound friends at dinner. (B/D) Stay: Shangri-La Roma

After breakfast, it's time to say a fond arrivederci to Rome, Italy and your travel companions as you return home with wonderful memories of this magnificent destination. (B)