Italy is the world's greatest museum, with a history that dates back 3,000 years to the time of the Etruscans. Its natural beauty is legendary, its cultural treasury is overflowing and its cuisine is loved the world over.

A visit to Rome's ancient ruins brings to life the exciting chariot races in the Colosseum . . . stately Senators debating in the Roman Forum . . . thundering legions marching along the Appian Way . . . petitioners flooding the temples of the gods . . . and weary travelers seeking relaxation at the Baths of Caracalla.

The architectural wonders of Italy can be found throughout the land, from Brunelleschi's Duomo in Florence to the pink and white marble that graces the Doge's Palace in Venice. See the genius in the masterpieces created by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto, Botticelli, Donatello and countless gifted Italian artists.

Nature has painted Italy with the same fine brush used by its great artists - the crystal waters of Italian lakes . . . exquisite shades of blue reflected on the waves of the Mediterranean . . . sun-kissed Tuscan farms that produce Italy's fine olives and cheeses . . . delicately carved arches reflected in Venetian canals . . . Experience the very best of Italian culture on this wonderful GRANDTRAVEL tour to splendid Italy.

 Day 1:

Depart USA

Relax as you enjoy the services on your transatlantic flight to Italy.

Day 2:

Arrive Venice

Upon arrival at Venice’s airport, board a private motor launch and transfer to your hotel. Relax before a walking tour of the area, followed by a gondola ride and welcome dinner.
Luna Baglioni Hotel (D)

Day 3:

Venice

Take in the famous sights of Venice! Dominating St. Mark’s Square is the golden church, Chiesa d’Oro, with its rich decoration of marble and mosaics. Nearby is the pink and white marble Doges’ Palace, symbol of the power of the Venetian Republic. Here see Tintoretto’s Paradise (the largest oil painting in the world), the dungeons and a collection of ancient weapons. Later create your own Venetian mask like those worn at Carnival. After dinner, enjoy an evening of Venetian music.
Luna Baglioni Hotel (B,D)

Day 4:

Venice

This morning, take a boat to the Lagoon Islands. On Murano, watch glass blowers create their signature art. Visit Burano, a fishing village with brightly painted houses, famous for lace-making. Dinner on your own tonight is reserved for grandparents and grandchildren to try one of the restaurants in the area.
Luna Baglioni Hotel (B)

Day 5:

Venice to Florence

Board a train this morning for Florence, nestled in the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside. On a guided walking tour, see Duomo Square with its beautiful Gothic cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the golden bronze doors of the Baptistery.

After a climb to the top of the Duomo, reward your efforts with a stop at a gelateria for some incomparable Italian ice cream. Continue on to Michelangelo’s famous statue of David in the Galleria dell’ Accademia. This evening, become a part of the local scene at a traditional trattoria.
Bernini Palace (B,D)

Day 6:

Florence

This morning see some of the most exquisite art treasures in the world, including Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Springtime, at the Uffizi Gallery. Then, at the Palazzo Vecchio, you will step back in time to the Italian court of the 16th century and explore the sumptuous royal apartments.

In the afternoon, drive into the Tuscan countryside to visit a wine cellar and learn how wine is made and stored, then watch delicious local dishes being prepared during a private cooking lesson. This evening, feast on a delightful Tuscan-style barbecue.
Bernini Palace (B,D)

Day 7:

Siena

This morning, take an excursion to the charming medieval hill town of Siena. Your guide will bring to life the annual Palio, a horse race that has taken place every summer since the Middle Ages. Once oriented, pursue individual interests during free time. Then enjoy a light lunch before heading back to Florence. After dinner in a charming old town restaurant, head to the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence.
Bernini Palace (B,D)

Day 8:

Tuscan Adventure

Venture into the Tuscan countryside once more to spend the day on a renovated 16th-century farm that produces wine, cereals, olive oil, walnuts amidst fragrant countryside. You may choose to hike or take a pony ride, explore the village or simply relax in the Tuscan countryside over a gourmet picnic lunch. Return to the city for a free final evening in Florence.
Bernini Palace (B,L)

Day 9:

Florence to Rome

After breakfast board your private motor coach for the drive to Rome. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and settle in. Later, walk to see the charming Spanish steps and toss a coin in the beautiful Fontana di Trevi, which tradition says will ensure your return to the Eternal City.

Then enjoy the memorable Piazza Navona’s lively atmosphere, street musicians and three beautiful fountains, including the Fontana dei Fiumi, a baroque masterpiece by Bernini. Just off the Piazza Navona we will dine in an underground restaurant for dinner!
Hotel Regina Baglioni (B,D)

Day 10:

Rome

This morning discover the ancient Roman Forum and Colosseum with your local guide. You will also visit the majestic Pantheon, the largest and best-preserved monument of Roman antiquity. Enjoy a relaxing lunch on your own before we drive to Tivoli to visit the elaborate gardens of the Villa D’Este. Enjoy dinner in a lively, Tivoli restaurant.
Hotel Regina Baglioni (B,D)

Day 11:

Rome

Today visit Vatican City to see St. Peter’s Church, with its impressive dome built in 1547 by Michelangelo, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. The afternoon is yours to enjoy before your farewell dinner this evening.
Hotel Regina Baglioni (B,D)

Day 12:

Depart Rome

Transfer to Rome airport today for your flight home.
(B)

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