Day 1: Rome
Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure for a walk to the Trevi fountain, the Spanish Steps or the beautiful Four Rivers fountain by Bernini in Navona Square.
Day 2: Rome
Start with a visit to the Vatican, the worlds' smallest independent state. You will visit the Vatican museums & the Sistine Chapel. Continue to St. Peter's Square and Basilica. Evening at leisure.
Day 3: Rome
This is your day at leisure. Visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, take a stroll along Via Condotti, or join an optional excursion to Pompeii.
Day 4: Rome, Siena, & Florence
Today, drive through the beautiful countryside of Tuscany to Siena. Enjoy a walk in Piazza del Campo where the famous Palio Horse Race is held twice a year. Then visit Verrazzano Castle for a wine tasting. Proceed to Florence.
Day 5: Florence
Your sightseeing tour begins at the Piazza del Duomo to see the delicately patterned green, white and pink cathedral. You'll also see Giotto's Bell Tower, dating from 1359, & the Signoria Square. Visit the Accademia Gallery, which was founded in 1563 to teach fine arts. Here, you will see Michelangelo's superb David & many of the master's unfinished works.
Day 6: Pisa & San Gimignano
Your day begins with a trip to Pisa to visit the Leaning Tower. The rest of the day, marvel at the countryside. Your journey will take you to the hill top of San Gimignano.
Day 7: Florence & Venice
We will drive to Venice. Upon arrival, you will take a boat transfer to your hotel in the heart of Venice. Visit the Piazza San Marco; this world-famous square is dominated by the Basilica San Marco, consecrated in 1094. Highlights of your walk will include the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Evening on your own.
Day 8: Murano or Burano island
In Murano, you'll watch Venetian glass blowers fashion their delicate works of art. Or visit Burano, a picturesque fishing village also known for its famous lace making. Return to Venice in the afternoon for independent visits to museums or take a walking tour through the maze of narrow streets.
Day 9: Venice
Return flight from Venice to the USA