Classic Italy-Rome, Florence & Venice

Day 1 : Ciao Italia!

Our knowledgeable Italian guide and driver greets us upon our arrival.

Day 2 : Padua

Our tour begins with a transfer to Padua. This historic city is known for its beauty, world renowned university, and as the setting for Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. Our evening concludes with a Holiday Vacations Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Venice

Enjoy a delicious Italian breakfast before starting our journey to Venice. Our tour of Venice begins at the city’s centerpiece, the Piazza San Marco where we discover some of the best-known examples of Byzantine architecture at Basilica di San Marco, the former royal residence at Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. Take in a glass blowing demonstration at world-famous Murano Glass before enjoying time a leisure to explore the city on our own. We then experience a special treat, a gondola ride on Venice’s charming waterways. An included dinner completes our day in the Floating City.

Day 4 : Tuscany

We depart this morning for the Tuscany region and cross the Apennine Mountains with a stop in Ferrara along the way, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with elegant palaces dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Arrive this evening in the historic city of Florence, our home for the next two nights, and taste the flavors that make this region famous with an included dinner.

Day 5 : Florence

Today we tour Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance and home to many of the world’s greatest artistic treasures. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia and view incredible works including Michelangelo’s famous David statue. Take in the Duomo, the largest brick dome ever constructed, and gaze upon Ghiberti’s famous bronze doors of the Baptistery, often referred to as the Gates of Paradise. Enjoy time on our own this afternoon to visit the shops of the Ponte Vecchio, a famous covered bridge housing many local vendors. Discover the museums of the area or enjoy a fresh gelato, traditional Italian-style ice cream. To truly appreciate the city’s beauty, we conclude the day with a scenic illuminated walk through the city center.

Day 6 : San Gimignano

Soak in the picturesque groves of olive trees and vineyards as we travel south through Tuscany. Our stop in the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano includes a tour of this spectacular community best recognized by its 14 magnificent towers. We arrive in the eternal city of Rome and check in to our hotel for the next three nights. A scrumptious dinner nearby is included this evening.

Day 7 : Vatican & The Sistine Chapel

Our day begins with a guided tour of the famous Vatican Museums featuring some of the most renowned classical sculptures and Renaissance art in the world. Explore the Vatican’s many galleries culminating with the famous Sistine Chapel. Truly a magnificent sight to behold, the iconic ceiling fresco was painted by Michelangelo. Our visit to Vatican City continues with a special tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most extraordinary churches in the world and home to the Catholic Church. Discover the immense history and relics including the Altar of the Sacred Heart, the Chair of Saint Peter, and Michelangelo’s Piéta. There is time this afternoon to see Saint Peter's Square, climb the Spanish Steps, visit the Pantheon, or explore the statues and cafés of Piazza Navona.

Day 8 : Ancient Rome

Discover the fascinating sights and landmarks of ancient Rome today. Begin with a visit to one of the most iconic monuments of the Roman Empire and the largest amphitheatre in the world, The Colosseum. Learn about the many uses of this famous arena and walk the same steps of the ancient gladiators. Next, tour the Roman Forum, once the governmental and financial center of the city and home today to several of the best preserved pieces of architecture including the Arch of Constantine. We complete our tour today with the stunning Trevi Fountain. Completed in 1762, it is one of the most famous fountains in the world. According to legend, tossing a coin into the fountain ensures your return visit to Rome. Tonight we gather for a special Farewell Dinner with musical entertainment to celebrate our wonderful Italian adventure.

Day 9 : Arrivederci, Italia

After an included breakfast, we travel home with fond memories.