Shrines of Italy

Travel on an inspirational journey to some of the most fascinating religious sites and relics in the world.

Your tour opens in Rome, the spiritual center of the Catholic faith. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. This evening, savor regional flavors as you join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

Begin your exploration of Rome's most revered Christian sites with a visit to the Cathedral of Saint John Lateran and its ancient Baptistery. Continue to the Scala Sancta, the Holy Stairs, believed to be the very steps that Christ climbed when he appeared before Pontius Pilate. Then, visit the Marian Basilica of St. Mary Major, before concluding your day at Saint Praxedes, one of Rome's oldest churches, where you have the possibility of celebrating Mass.*

Travel north to the region of Umbria, known as “the green heart of Italy” and where St. Francis spent most of his life. Pause for lunch at a family-owned winery nestled in the countryside. This afternoon, visit the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, where you explore the Porziuncola – the small chapel that is the founding site of the Franciscan Order. Stroll through the rose garden, where tradition holds that the miracle of the thorny bush took place. Then pause for a moment of reflection at the Chapel of the Transitus, where St. Francis of Assisi passed away. You’ll have the opportunity to celebrate Mass* at the basilica before checking into your hotel in the early evening. Settle in for a four-night stay before spending an evening at leisure.