You're in for a bellissimo journey through the spectacular cities of Italy, which kicks off in the 'Eternal City' of Rome. Your introduction to la dolce vita begins as you join your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a delightful dinner.

This morning, explore the smallest nation on earth - Vatican City. See the Vatican Museums and stand beneath Michelangelo’s sublime ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Admire the artistry of great masters and walk in the foots. Visit the expansive St. Peter’s Basilica admiring the ethereal artistry of Michelangelo's Pietà. Cross the Tiber and venture into Ancient Rome to visit the Colosseum.

Enjoy a full free day to explore Rome your way, or consider an Optional Experience delving into the tragic history of Pompeii - the Roman city frozen in time by the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.  

Journey north to Umbria to the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi and visit the Basilica of St. Francis, the final resting place of this famous saint and home to a wonderful series of frescoes by Giotto. Later, continue your journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Florence. Tonight, enjoy dinner with a local against the backdrop of picture-perfect olive groves and vineyards.

Enjoy a walking tour of Florence and visit Piazza della Signoria, view the multi-colored marble Duomo and Baptistery, before admiring the scenic view of the Ponte Vecchio straddling the Arno River.  Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the historic center of Florence.

After a morning at leisure in Florence, head to Pisa and visit the Square of Miracles, home to the incredible Leaning Tower and the iconic marble cathedral. See the ornate Baptistery and the Camposanto, a monumental cemetery built on sacred soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades.

Travel north to the medieval city of Bologna and enjoy sightseeing that includes views of the Kissing Towers. Then head to Venice, ride a gondola or wander through the city's labyrinthine lanes, over bridges and into quiet campi.

Savor highlights of Venice as you cruise to St. Mark's Square to admire the Bridge of Sighs, Palladian churches, Customs House, St. Mark's Basilica and the ornate Doge's Palace. Enjoy a visit to one of the city’s last remaining studios where you’ll gain insights into the delicate Venetian art of glassblowing. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure admiring this city on water or consider an Optional Experience to the island of Burano where colorful fishermen’s homes line the canals.

Meet Lagoon Conservationist Davide for an engaging discussion on safeguarding environmental conditions in Venice. Explore sites made famous in poetry, song and prose during a walking tour along the canals to the famous Rialto Bridge, where all the flavors of Italy come to life at a centuries-old food market. Wander through the narrow calli of Venice, walk over the Rialto Bridge before spending the rest of the day visiting the sights of your choice.  

For now, it's time to say a fond arrivederci to Italy and newfound friends who have shared in the memorable sights, sounds and flavors.