THE BIG 3: Venice, Florence & Rome

Day 2: Tuesday Venice
Today we will begin our morning with a relaxing boat ride to Murano Island, famous for its handmade glassware. We will visit a glassmaking factory and you will have a chance to see first hand the impressive craftwork of traditional Venetian glassblowing performed by master craftsmen. Afterward we will make our way to St. Mark’s Square, for a walking tour to visit the splendid St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, enjoying views of the Bell Tower and Bridge of Sighs. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to shop, explore or take a romantic ride in one of Venice’s famous gondolas. Late afternoon return to your hotel. (B)

Day 3: Wednesday Venice to Padova, Pisa and Tuscany
Today we will drive to Tuscany, our first stop Padova (Padua) a Medieval & Renaissance gem on the banks of the Brenta River. Padova is also home to Saint Anthony, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony and Prato della Valle, one of the largest piazzas in all of Europe! Our journey continues through the Apennine mountains to Pisa where you’ll view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Duomo. Tonight enjoy a welcome Tuscan dinner at a local farmhouse & Chianti winery. Overnight in Tuscany. (B, D)

Day 4: Thursday Florence
This morning our city tour begins at the majestic Piazza del Duomo where we will visit the famous Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s splendid bronze “Gates of Paradise.” Then, we will make our way to visit the renowned Academy of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking David is displayed. The tour ends at Santa Croce square to visit. The remainder of the day is yours to savor the Tuscan capital at your own leisure. (B)

Day 5: Friday Siena & San Gimignano
Today we explore the heart of Tuscany to Siena and San Gimignano. In the morning visit medieval Siena, known for its famed Palio horse races, Saint Katherine and Piazza del Campo. In the afternoon visit San Gimignano, stroll the old center “Medieval Manhattan” famous for the fascinating architecture and towers that offer amazing views of the city and the surrounding valley. Tonight enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel. (B,D)

Day 6: Day 6, Saturday Rome (Vatican)
Today we will travel through the stunning panorama of Tuscany & Umbria through Etruscan settlements along the ancient Roman Salaria road to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, we welcome you to the Vatican city with a private guided tour through the Vatican Museum one of the world’s largest collections of sculptures and art including the Sistine Chapel. Our tour will end at St. Peter’s Basilica built over the Tomb of Saint Peter. (B,D)

Day 7: Sunday Rome
This morning our guided tour will start exploring the origin of Rome the Palatine hill, the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Constantine & the imposing Colosseum – a testament to the greatness of Rome’s past.
In the after enjoy your last afternoon at leisure or explore with your tour Director the Famous Spanish steps & Trevi fountain.
Tonight bid arrivederci to Rome with a special dinner with wine in a lovely Roman restaurant (B, D)