Arrive in Milan, Italy’s capital of commerce, fashion and media. Meet tour guide at airport and transfer to hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure, so you can explore the city as you choose. If you are interested, you may book on site to join an optional tour to the charming city of Lugano and visiting Lake Como.

This morning, we take a walking tour of Milan. Marvel at the Milan Cathedral and world-renowned La Scala Opera House which faces a statue of the genius Leonardo Da Vinci. Next, stroll inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping arcades. Afterward, depart for Verona famed as the fictional setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Straddling the River Adige, Verona was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2000 and is filled with timeless monuments. Upon arrival, view the highlights of the city’s fascinating monuments, including the Juliet’s House. Later, journey to Venice. Stay overnight in Padova and enjoy dinner at hotel.

Called La Serenissima or the ”most serene”, Venice is like no other city. Mostly built on water, this canal-woven city brims with palaces and churches that reflect its one-time domination of trade between Europe and the Orient. Take a boat ride to the island of Murano to see a fascinating glass-blowing demonstration at the Murano Glass Factory, and then ride a ferry* to the city to view the “Bridge of Sighs”. Next, stroll around the vast St. Mark’s Square and wonder at stunning St. Mark’s Basilica. Afterward, consider a serenaded gondola ride along the stunning Grand Canal, to appreciate the grand palazzos lining the water.

Have your camera ready as we drive across the Apennine Mountains to San Marino. Stopping on the way for some time in Ravenna. Pause in this historic city, eulogized for its glorious Byzantine mosaics and as the seat of the Papacy in the 5th century. Enjoy an orientation tour to explore the Piazza del Popolo and Dante’s Tomb, and adore the famous mosaics. Other attractions include its downtown basilicas and baptisteries. Later, continue to the tiny Republic of San Marino, entirely encircled by Italy. Spend some time at leisure to buy souvenirs or absorb the breathtaking views overlooking the Adriatic Sea and Mount Titano. Stay overnight at the charming seaside city, Rimini.

This morning, we make our way to the alluring Tuscan city of Siena. Once a major adversary to Florence, Siena’s charm lies in its medieval buildings and rich Gothic art. Embark on a walking tour of the city, left relatively untouched for centuries. Afterward, travel to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. Tonight, stay over at the handsome spa town of Montecatini.

Today, head for Florence, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. Take a walking tour, seeing its spectacular Duomo – one of the world’s largest cathedrals. Admire the bronze doors of the octagonal Baptistery before touring Santa Croce Basilica and the marvelous Piazza della Signoria, Lastly, contemplate the panoramic views from Michelangelo Square, before driving to Assisi. Here join our orientation tour of the past home of St. Francis, taking in UNESCO-listed jewels such as the Basilica of St. Francis and other Franciscan sites. Later, walk the city streets with your guide, marveling at the Roman ruins and medieval relics.

A highlight of your vacation comes today with a visit to Pompeii*. In 79 AD, this flourishing city was destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Afterward, drive to Sorrento, a colorful cliff-top town overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples. Enjoy an orientation tour of its center, characterized by buzzing streets, cafe-lined piazzas and tempting restaurants.

Start today with a ferry ride* to the island of Capri, Italy’s most glamorous seaside getaway. Arrive at Marina Grande and enjoy a Capri sightseeing tour showcasing its white hillside houses, charming squares and narrow alleyways, all favored as holiday haunts by Italy’s jet set. If weather permits, perhaps take an optional tour to the azure waters of the Blue Grotto and later, visit Capri’s second city, Anacapri, tucked high into the hills.

Take time at leisure this morning. Unwind at the deluxe hotel or elect for our optional drive to Amalfi Coast and excursion to Positano. Be ready to be blown away by the jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast, as we drive its coastal road around cliffs dotted with picturebook towns. Visit romantic Positano and explore the picturesque lanes of Amalfi. Later, head for the ”Eternal City” of Rome, a treasure trove of historic monuments and artistic riches.

Today is dedicated to the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Rome. Start at the resplendent Vatican City, home of St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church at 18,000 square yards. Outside, admire sublime St. Peter’s Square. Next, contemplate the elegant Old City and explore the majestic Colosseum, scene of many bloody gladiatorial contests, and the ruins of the Roman Forum. We also admire the Spanish Steps and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the city. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to see more of Rome’s riches and attend an Italian Farewell Dinner this evening.

Optional Tour: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel,

Leave this unforgettable country on board your international flight, arriving home later today.

Meal Code:
AB=American Breakfast, B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner at Local Restaurant, DH=Dinner at Hotel, DP=Dinner Party, DS=Dinner & Show