Description

TOUR ITINERARY 

ARRIVE IN ROME, ITALY
Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this ancient capital.
This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers.

ROME
Steeped in history, the "Eternal City" is vibrantly alive and exciting, and absolutely unique! Start your guided introduction to Rome from St. Peter's Square, the heart of the Vatican, and see other highlights such as the Colosseum and Circus Maximus. Maybe take an optional tour of the Vatican Museum to discover some unique art
masterpieces. (B)

ROME-PISA-FLORENCE AREA
Vistas of rolling hills, cypress trees, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages form the backdrop as you journey into the heart of Tuscany. Stop in Pisa to enjoy a mini-train ride to the SQUARE OF MIRACLES and see the legendary Leaning Tower. Then, head east to magnificent Florence, "Cradle of the Renaissance." (B)

FLORENCE
Today is devoted to the wonders of Florence, starting with a guided walking tour featuring some of the city's greatest attractions. See Piazza Santa Croce; world-famous Signoria Square; 13th-century Palazzo Vecchio with its collection of artistic masterpieces and incredible courtyards; Loggia dei Lanzi; the fantastic Duomo with
Giotto's gothic Bell Tower and the Baptistry's ornate bronze door known as the "Gate
of Paradise." (B,D)

FLORENCE-VERONA-VENICE AREA
Travel north and cross the Po River to fabled Verona, setting for Shakespeare's Romeo
& Juliet. See Juliet's balcony-and be sure to rub the shining breast on her statue for good luck! Also, marvel at the ancient Arena, where gladiators used to fight. Built in the 1st century AD, it is now a popular venue for the world-famous opera festival and other well-known artists' performances. Continue to the Venice area for two overnights. (B)

VENICE AREA
One of the most unique cities on Earth, Venice is a place of unmatched beauty and a feast of fantastic sites. View the delightful crisscrossing canals, the gondolas, arched bridges, palaces, and piazzas. Your included orientation features a BOAT RIDE to St. Mark's Square and a visit to a Venetian GLASSBLOWING WORKSHOP. You'll have time to explore at leisure on your own, join one of our optional excursions, or just relax,
sipping a cappuccino or the typical Venetian drink called spritz at one of the many bars
or cafés. (B,D)

VENICE AREA
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)