Italy Classic Tour 9 days

 

Itinerary

Day 1: Depart the USA or Canada

Depart the USA for Italy.

 

Day 2: Arrive in Rome

Arrive in Rome and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure. This evening, enjoy an orientation meeting with your tour manager, followed by a welcome dinner. (Dinner)

 

Day 3: Tour Ancient Rome

This morning, a historic tour of "ancient Rome" takes you to the Roman Forum, the political center during the Roman Republic, the triumphal Arch of Constantine, the Arch of Titus and the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater built in the Roman Empire. Afternoon at leisure. (Breakfast)

 

Day 4: Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel

Today begins with the visit to the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo's breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Stroll through St. Peter's Square, passing Bernini's famous colonnade, to visit St. Peter's Basilica, where you will view Michelangelo's Pieta. This highly-finished marble sculpture depicts the body of Jesus in the arms of Mary after the Crucifixion and is considered to be among the most compelling of all works of art in the Western world. Afternoon at leisure. Tonight, dine in a typical Roman restaurant with wine and music, then enjoy an illuminated tour of the city. (Breakfast, Dinner)

 

Day 5: Sun Route Via Assisi to Florence

Today travel along the famous "Sun Route" motorway to the medieval the city of Assisi, renowned for its 13th century Basilica of St. Francis and Giotto's frescoes. Continue to your hotel in Florence. (Breakfast)

 

Day 6: Florence City Tour

Today's morning tour begins with a visit to the Accademia of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo's David is housed. Walk to the Duomo, celebrated for its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi, and view the Baptistery's renowned "Gates of Paradise" by Ghiberti. Continue to explore the open air art museum of Signoria Square ending at Ponte Vecchio, known as the "Old Bridge." Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Florence. This evening, dine in an authentic Tuscan restaurant in the countryside. (Breakfast, Dinner)

 

Day 7: Pisa Sightseeing En Route to Venice

Travel through the stunning panorama of Tuscany to Pisa. On arrival, view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, the Duomo, and the Monumental Cemetery. The four monuments of this extraordinary piazza make for a unique architectural blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. En route to Venice, visit a local Tuscan farm in the countryside for a wine tasting with local specialties. Evening at leisure. (Breakfast)

 

Day 8: Venice City Tour

Today begins with a boat ride to the Island of Murano, known throughout the world for its glass manufacturing industry. Visit St. Mark's Square to begin a guided walking tour of romantic Venice. View the Golden Basilica of San Marco, the Bridge of Sighs and visit the Doge's Palace, whose facade features a massive late-Gothic gate, known as the Porta della Carta. Take the remainder of the aftenoon to explore Venice on your own. Tonight, join in for a farewell dinner with your tour manager and fellow travelers. (Breakfast, Dinner)

 

Day 9: Depart for the USA or Canada

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. (Breakfast)