| |
| |
ITINERARY |
|
|
|
|
USA - Milan |
| |
We check in to our international flight bound for Milan, eager to begin our Italy discovery. |
|
|
|
|
Arrive Milan |
| |
Touch down in Milan, Italy’s capital of commerce, fashion and media. Upon arrival we embark on a walking tour of the city, which abounds with historical and cultural jewels at every corner. Our first stop of the day is the intricate late-Gothic Duomo Cathedral, followed by the world-renowned opera house known as La Scala. Continue on to visit the statue of Leonardo Da Vinci and the magnificent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, one of the world’s earliest shopping malls. |
|
|
|
|
Milan - Verona - Venice |
| |
Depart to the enchanting city of Verona, which rose to stardom as the romantic setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Situated on the banks of the River Adige, Verona has been under Venice’s rule since 1404 and contains the largest number of historical treasures north of Rome. Sightseeing today takes us to the highlights of the city’s fascinating monuments, including its most famous attraction, Juliet’s House. Later on, we transit to Venice, one of Italy’s most marvelous cities, where we will stay overnight and enjoy dinner at the hotel. (B, D) |
|
|
|
|
Venice |
| |
Nicknamed “La Serenissima” (the most serene) and built entirely on water, this magical city captures the essence of Italy. Today we visit some of Venice’s multicultural landmarks, including the city’s gem, St. Mark’s Basilica. Located in the dazzling Piazza St. Marco, a vast square in the heart of the city, the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica is renowned for its golden mosaics and countless treasures, including the Pala d”Oro alterpiece of enamel, gold and precious jewels. Continue on to gaze at the marble Prigioni Nuove “Bridge of Sighs”, then enjoy a fascinating glass-blowing demonstration at the Murano Glass Factory. After the city tour, consider taking a romantic gondola ride through the mesmerizing Grand Canal. Some of the city’s most impressive facades line the length of the canal, evoking the most romantic visions of Venice. (B) |
|
|
|
|
Venice - Florence - Pisa - Lucca |
| |
Head to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. A walking tour of the city takes us first to the magnificent Duomo (Cathedral), the holy center of Florence and the former site of it Roman Temple. Admire artist Brundlleschi’s stunning work of art, then head to the flittering bronze doors of the Baptistery, followed by a tour of Santa Croce Basilica and Piazza della Signoria, Florence’s most evocative square. Later in the afternoon, we visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy’s most famous landmark, Transit to Lucca, for overnight accommodations. (B, D) |
|
|
|
|
Lucca - Sienna - Sorrento |
| |
Depart Lucca to the alluring medieval city of Sienna, situated in the heart of Tuscany. A historic adversary to Florence, Sienna’s charm lies in magnificent buildings and it large collection of Gothic artistic treasures. Embark on a walking tour of this city, which has remained relatively unchanged since medieval times, then transit to Sorrento later in the day. Located across the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a scenic coastal city outlined in vertical russet cliffs, striking beaches and relaxing cafes. (B, D) |
|
|
|
|
Sorrento – Capri – Sorrento |
| |
Begin our day with a ferry ride to the breathtaking island of Capri, the Mediterranean jewel, Italy’s most famous seaside getaway. Arrive at Marina Grande and begin our sightseeing of the City of Capril through the island’s white hillside houses, charming squares and narrow alleyways. If weather permits, we may take an optional tour to the Blue Crotto to admire the extraordinary sapphire colored water. Later, Anacapri, a seperate commune located high on the hills to the west, is visited as well. (B) |
|
|
|
|
Sorrento – Pompeii – Rome |
| |
Excursion to the ancient ruins of Pompeii. In 79AD the entire city was buried by a volcanic eruption from Mt. Veruvius. For two days, ash rained down upon the town, killing the inhabitants while perfectly preserving it for some 1700 years until it was rediscovered. Later in the afternoon, depart Sorrento to the “Eternal City” of Rome, a veritable treasure trove of artistic and architectural treasures. (B) |
|
|
|
|
Rome - Farewell Dinner |
| |
Our first stop of the day is Vatican City. Tour the sublime St. Peter’s Basilica, which covers a sprawling 18,000 sq. yards. Continue on to St. Peter’s Square, one of Bernini’s most extraordinary masterpieces, and soak up the quiet elegance of the Old City. Our city tour of Rome covers the must-see attractions. We begin with a trip to the majestic Colosseum, the city’s iconic symbol, then venture to the Roman Forum. Wander amongst the enduring ruins of stone temples and fallen colums, then continue on to the Spanish Steps. We arrive at the legendary Trevi Fountain and toss a coin into it, ensuring our return to this magical city. Spend the remainder of the day free to enjoy Rome and all its splendors. During the evening, we attend an Italian Farewell Dinner. (B, D) |
|
|
|
|
Rome - USA |
| |
We leave this unforgettable country and board our international flight, arriving home later the same day. (B) |
|
|
|
|