Italy Bellissimo

Our captivating journey through Rome begins at the Vatican Museums where we join a Local Specialist to view Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and his sorrowful Pietà in St. Peter's Basilica. We visit the enduring symbols of Ancient Rome, paying tribute to the gladiators and soldiers who entertained thousands in the mighty Colosseum. See the Circus Maximus before spending the afternoon at leisure. Wander up Via Veneto on a shopping spree, soak up the coffee culture in one of Rome's lively piazze or discover the masterpieces of Rome in one of the city's many museums.

Optional Experiences

Venture south towards the ancient city of Pompeii which remains frozen in time since it was covered in ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius centuries ago. Here we join a Local Specialist who will share insights into the city's tragic history. Cruising across the Bay of Naples next, we arrive at the Isle of Capri, where we'll spend the next two nights in picture-perfect surrounds.

Optional Experiences

Explore the glamour of Capri on a walking tour with a Local Specialist that will include views of the marina, where Ulysses was said to have been seduced by sirens. Venture to the heart of the island and the legendary Piazzetta, where the locals come to people-watch. Spend free time shopping at elegant boutiques or perhaps join an Optional Experience and explore the rugged coastline and hidden grottos by private motor launch. Tonight, we dine at our hotel.

Optional Experiences

We sail back across the Mediterranean to Naples and remember the brave soldiers who died during World War II at their final resting place in Cassino's Commonwealth War Cemetery. Venture north to the historic city of Perugia. Here we'll 'Dive Into Culture' and discover Italy's weaving tradition during a visit to Laboratorio Giuditta Brozzetti, a TreadRight and JoinTrafalgar Heritage Initiative project. Explore one of the last remaining traditional wooden frame hand-weaving workshops in the country, before continuing to the ancient hilltop town of Assisi where we will stay at one of Trafalgar's 'Stays With Stories' tonight.

Stroll through the narrow lanes of Assisi with a Local Specialist and visit the Basilica of St. Francis, famous for Giotto's exquisite frescoes and 13th-century stained glass windows. Continue north past hilltop medieval villages and through picturesque farming plains towards Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic. Enjoy a free evening watching the sun set over the Venetian Lagoon or consider joining an Optional Experience.

Optional Experiences

The Winged Lion of Venice is your constant companion as your cruise by private launch to Giudecca Island. 'Dive Into Culture' and witness the delicate Venetian tradition of glassmaking that harks back to the 13th century before continuing to St. Mark's Square. See the Basilica, the ornate Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs, named for the sound made by prisoners taking one last look at their beloved city from the bridge before meeting their fate. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore what was once the haunt of Casanova and Marco Polo.

Optional Experiences

This morning we travel to Pisa and to its Field of Miracles to view the famous Leaning Tower before arriving in the spa-resort of Montecatini Terme in Tuscany, your home for the next two nights.

Optional Experiences

Explore one of the world's most cultural cities today - the former home of great masters and a testament to the ambitious legacy of the Medici family. Your Local Specialist shares all the sights, including views of the magnificent marble Duomo and Baptistery. We visit Piazza della Signoria, the heart of this flourishing city with its statues and stunning palazzi. Learn about the quality and workmanship of two of this city's historic industries at demonstrations of Florentine leathercraft and 18-carat gold. Later, enjoy some free time to stroll across the Arno over Ponte Vecchio and enjoy magnificent views of the city skyline from Piazzale Michelangelo. This evening, we Connect With Locals during a Be My Guest dinner at a farmhouse set amidst beautiful olive groves in the Tuscan countryside.

Optional Experiences

We admire the medieval beauty of Siena today, walking to its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, which is dominated by the rusty red Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia, the site of the Palio horse race. See the hilltop town's extraordinary architecture, shop for beautifully hand-painted ceramics or relax with a gelato at a pavement café. This evening, we celebrate a magnificent Italian adventure with newfound friends at a Farewell Dinner.

After breakfast, we say a fond farewell to Italy and prepare to return home after a memorable Italian journey of discovery. Airport transfers are available to Fiumicino airport. Conditions apply.