We embark on an unforgettable journey as we join our fellow travelers for our overnight flight to Rome.

Upon arrival we begin our journey traveling south on the “Sun Highway,” past Naples to Sorrento. With breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, this ancient city founded by the Romans is along the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Dinner is included in Sorrento for the next two nights. (D)

We are treated by a drive along the world famous Amalfi Coast, considered Italy’s most scenic stretch of coastline, so beautiful it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon we meet our local guide for an archaeological journey through the ancient city of Pompeii, amazingly preserved when it was covered in ashes over 2000 years ago. We’ll visit houses, shops, temples, squares, streets and also the “Lupanare” with its frescoes. We return to our hotel after our included dinner. (B, D)

Our journey takes us to Rome where we have a guided tour through the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, world famous for Michelangelo’s ceiling paintings and “The Last Judgement.” Next, visit monumental St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. We overnight in Rome the next two nights. Dinner is included this evening. (B, D)

Today brings us to the Catacombs of Santa Domitilla, one of the best preserved in Rome with over 10 miles of underground tunnels on four levels. Then off to the Roman Forum, the biggest and most splendid of all, whose markets, true forerunners of the modern commercial centers, offered to the Roman citizen any goods to be found at that time. From here we visit the Colosseum, the everlasting symbol of the greatness of Rome and the stage for the historical fights of the gladiators. After throwing coins into the Trevi Fountain to assure a return to Rome we walk to the Pantheon, one of the best preserved of all ancient Roman buildings. We end the day at Piazza Navona where we see the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. We return to the hotel after dinner. (B, D)

We reach the charming and historic city of Assisi, perched atop a hill dominated by the Basilica of San Francesco (St. Francis). Our tour finds us in the heart of town where we see the Piazza del Commune and its medieval buildings. Departing Assisi our journey will take us through the cypress groves and vineyards of the Tuscany countryside towards Florence. We enjoy a two night stay in Florence with dinner included. (B, D)

Today we discover why Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance. We enjoy a visit to Piazza della Signoria, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and views of Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Basilica of Santa Croce. Your guide will help you decide on how to spend your free time this afternoon, whether you view Michelangelo’s David or any of the other amazing sights that Florence has to offer. Be sure to visit the heart of the city, “San Lorenzo Market.” Here we’ll have an opportunity to get a true taste of Italy’s gourmet flavor. (B, D)

We visit the ancient maritime Republic of Pisa. Here we discover the Piazza Dei Miracoli, the Duomo Cathedral, and the famous Leaning Tower. Next cross the Apennine Mountains enroute to Venice where 117 islands are connected by a latticework of 150 canals and 400 Bridges. We check in our hotel for a two night stay. Dinner is included this evening. (B, D)

Touring Venice we see the magnificent Piazza and Basilica of St. Mark’s. With its marvelous Byzantine-style architecture studded with colored marbles and glittering gold mosaics, this is a sight to behold. We also visit Doge’s Palace and the legendary Bridge of Sighs. We’ll experience a gondola ride, then have time to explore the city before returning to our hotel. We have our final included dinner in Italy tonight. (B, D)

We board our return flight back home. (B)