Italian Vista

Welcome to Rome! At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

When in Rome Discover the timeless beauty of Rome with a guided sightseeing of the Eternal City. Be transported back to Ancient Rome when you stand in the Colosseum and hear stories of Gladiators and Emperors. Enter the Vatican City State for a visit of the extensive Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square, and the spectacular St. Peter's Basilica. Free time late afternoon and evening to take in more sights and experiences.* (B) * For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded. TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDARY LIVES Stand in awe and wonder amid one of mankind’s greatest artistic achievements in the Sistine Chapel. Hear how in 1508, a young Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to decorate the chapel’s ceiling – a request not welcomed by the 33-year-old sculptor. Michelangelo’s 4-year project was indeed one of physical pain and psychological distress, while painting from scaffolds high above the sanctuary floor. Nevertheless, he created what is considered the most famous ceiling in the world, depicting the Creation of Adam in striking fresco style.

Historic Hilltops Depart Rome and drive into Umbria, the “green heart of Italy.” Stop in the hill town of Orvieto, perched dramatically on a plug of volcanic rock and dominated by a striking cathedral. Enjoy free time to explore Piazza del Duomo. Continue to the stunning town of Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis, visit the Basilica named after him and browse the charming streets. Free time this afternoon and evening. (B) 146mi / 235 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi with a visit to the Basilica named after the deacon, friar, and mystic, who became one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity. Revered for his love of the Eucharist and the Earth, Francis found communion with God through nature here in this Italian village where he lived and died. Marvel at the magnificent frescoes by Italian master Giotto that adorn the Basilica where the Saint is buried.

Legendary Landmarks Florence is one of Italy’s most celebrated cities. Meet your Local Guide for a walk through the historic center, stopping to admire and learn more about the cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry’s “Gates of Paradise,” and the sculptures of Signoria Square. Later, drive across the Apennine Mountains and River Po to arrive in Padua. An orientation drive will familiarize you with the city while an [LOCAL FAVORITE] Italian aperitivo (pre-dinner cocktail) at Café Pedrocchi will give you a real taste of local life. (B) 261 mi / 420 km LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES They say aperitivo is life. Indulge in the Italian specialties served at Café Pedrocchi with a traditional cocktail before dinner. From the Latin word for ‘open,’ aperitivi cocktails or wine are served between 6 and 9pm as an opener to the evening meal. Alla salute!

Spend your day your way in Venice A short drive to Venice, before taking a private boat ride along the Giudecca Canal. Prepare for breath taking views as you sail in front of the entrance to St Mark’s Square. On disembarking walk to an historic vetreria to meet a local glassblower and learn how the world-famous Murano glass is created. Explore more of Venice with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. Palaces & Pontoons Your Local Guide shares legendary stories on a Venice walking tour, featuring iconic St. Mark s Square, with views of its landmark columns, Basilica, and Clock Tower. Enjoy skip-the-line access and guided visit to magnificent Doge s Palace, with its lavish rooms and infamous Bridge of Sighs which offered a final glimpse of the outside world to prisoners crossing to prison. Location, Location, Location! Once described by Napoleon as "the world's most beautiful drawing room," St. Mark's Square remains the beating heart of Venice. After a short stroll through some picturesque calli (alleyways), take a seat in a historic café for a taste of Venetian café culture. Enjoy a refreshment served with unrivaled views of Venetian landmarks! Enjoy a leisurely evening. (B) 56 mi / 90 km

Ladies & Gentlemen of Verona Arrive in the elegant city of Verona, rich in history, but made famous by Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers. Enjoy a stroll to admire the main squares of Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra, with its pink marble Roman Arena. Continue to the bustling city of Milan for an orientation walk to see famous landmarks including La Scala Opera House, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Duomo. This evening free time to familiarize yourself with some local specialties for dinner. (B) 155 mi / 250 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Stroll through the grand piazzas of Verona, where the tradition of La Passeggiata (leisurely stroll) is alive and well near the site of the ancient forum. Where fruits, vegetables, and spices once filled the market squares, now eateries and shops share the space with the ancient arts of sumptuous fountains, monuments, architecture, and people-watching.

Life on the Lake Discover why Lake Como has attracted visitors since the Roman times as you take [LOCAL FAVORITE] a private boat ride across it to the delightful town of Bellagio, known locally as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Keep your eyes out for celebrities as you saunter along the lakefront promenade and charming alleyways. Back in Milan, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) 106 mi /170 km LOCAL FAVORITE EPIC RIDE Glide on the gorgeous waters of Lago di Como on your private cruise to beautiful Bellagio - Lake Como’s most loved village with narrow streets and stunning views. A magical experience to take in Italy’s most famous lake.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)