8 days/ Venice (2) Florence (3) Rome (3)
or
11 days/ Sorrento & Amalfi Coast Extension
Welcome to Venice airport, meet your Tour Director & Driver for transfer to your hotel in the outskirts of Venice. (Included shuttle arrival transfers 11:00 am and 4:00 pm departure airport departure) In the afternoon after unpacking and freshen up, we will depart from the hotel through the countryside of the Veneto region to “Villa Sandi” estates for a tour of the winery followed by a Prosecco tasting. This evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
Today we will begin our morning with a relaxing boat ride to the Murano Island, famous for its handmade glassware. We will visit a glassmaking factory and you will have a chance to see first hand the impressive craftwork of traditional Venetian glassblowing performed by master craftsmen. Afterwards we will make our way to St. Mark’s Square, for a walking tour to visit the splendid St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, enjoying views of the Bell Tower and Bridge of Sighs. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to shop, explore or take a romantic ride in one of Venice’s famous gondola’s. Late afternoon return to your hotel. (B)
Today we will drive to Tuscany, our first stop Padova (Padua) a Medieval & Renaissance gem on the banks of the Brenta River. Padova is also home of Saint Anthony, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony and Prato della Valle, one of the largest piazza’s in all of Europe! Our journey continues through the Apennine mountains to Pisa where you’ll view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Duomo. Tonight enjoy a welcome Tuscan dinner at a local farmhouse & Chianti winery. Overnight in Tuscany. (B,D)
This morning our city tour begins at the majestic Piazza del Duomo where we will visit the famous Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s splendid bronze “Gates of Paradise.” Then, we will make our way to visit to the renowned Academy of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking David is displayed. The tour ends at Santa Croce square to visit . The remainder of the day is yours to savor the Tuscan capital at your own leisure. (B)
Today we explore the heart of Tuscany to Siena and San Gimignano. In the morning visit medieval Siena, known for its famed Palio horse races, Saint Katherine and Piazza del Campo. In the afternoon visit San Gimignano, stroll the old center “Medieval Manattan” famous for the fascinating architecture and towers that offer amazing views of the city and the surrounding valley. Tonight enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel. (B,D)
Today we will travel through the stunning panorama of Tuscany & Umbria through Etruscan settlements along the ancient Roman Salaria road to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome we welcome you to the Vatican city with a private guided tour through the Vatican Museum one of the world’s largest collection of sculptures and art including the Sistine Chapel. Our tour will end at St. Peter’s Basilica built over the Tomb of Saint Peter. (B,D)
This morning our guided tour will start exploring the origin of Rome the Palatine hill, the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Constantine & the imposing Colosseum – a testament to the greatness of Rome’s past.
In the after enjoy your last afternoon at leisure or explore with your tour Director the Famous Spanish steps & Trevi fountain.
Tonight bid arrivederci to Rome with a special dinner with wine in a lovely Roman restaurant (B,D)
Your Splendors of Italy travel experience ends with a morning transfer to Rome Fiumicino airport. Arrivederci Roma or continue to Sorrento (B)
Escorted Package Includes
Special Features
First class HOTELS or similar:
OPTIONAL SORRENTO & AMALFI COAST EXTENSION -$500
If you would like to spend more time in Italy we recommend our Splendors of Sorrento & Amalfi coast Tour.
See details below:
Depart Rome, and head to Pompeii the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site which was buried under ash and pumice after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. In the evening we will make our way to the beautiful cliffside town of Sorrento. Enjoy a traditional Sorrentine dinner at your hotel and then enjoy the rest of your evening relaxing or taking a stroll to Sorrento’s lively piazza. (B,D)
This morning we will set off across the bay to the beautiful Isle of Capri. Here, you will visit the magnificent Gardens of Caesar Augustus and view the famed Faraglioni Rocks. You will also have time to wander through the winding roads and browse the elegant boutiques before returning to Sorrento. (B)
You have all day to enjoy Sorrento at your own leisure. Visit the shops for traditional crafts or indulge in a spa treatment. Or simply, sit in the piazza and take in the scenery. Tonight we will enjoy our last dinner at the hotel. (B,D)
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Naples International airport for your return flight home. (B)
SPECIAL SORRENTO EXTENSION! $500
Included Features