Splendours of Italy

Take time to embrace the Italian passion for life on this grand adventure that starts and ends in the 'Eternal City' of Rome. You'll see reminders of an ancient world, a holy empire and the Renaissance around every turn should you wish to spend the day exploring on your own, after checking in to your hotel. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a glimpse of what's in store. You could continue your independent exploration of Rome later this evening.

Your Local Specialist will reveal the treasures and main attractions of Rome. Continue your guided sightseeing tour across the Tiber River to Ancient Rome and imagine a time when soldiers and senators built a city that became the center of the world. The foundations of that city still stand today as a tribute to its former might and you'll have the opportunity to view its iconic ancient ruins before spending time on your own exploring or joining your fellow travelers on an Optional Experience to discover Rome's beautiful piazzas or join your travel group for an Optional Experience featuring typical Italian cuisine.

• Rome City Tour

Today, the Bay of Naples beckons and you head south past the Abbey of Monte Cassino, the site of fierce battles during World War II. Perhaps spend the afternoon taking an Optional Experience drive along the picture-perfect Amalfi Coast, with a visit to the artistic hub of Positano and its pastel-hued houses that seem to tumble into the Tyrrhenian Sea, or else spend the rest of your day in search of the best Margherita pizza. Its ingredients reflect the red, white and green of Italy's flag – could there be anything more patriotic?

Today you'll take a scenic journey along the craggy Mediterranean coast, tracing the footsteps of artists, writers and high society who have long revered the sweet shores of Sorrento. Centuries on, there are no signs of the hypnotic sirens that once tempted soldiers to run their ships into the deadly rocks. Instead, fresh scents of citrus are likely to accompany your every step as you explore this beautiful resort town with plenty of time to explore on your own. Perhaps you'll choose to join an Optional Experience to see the excavations of Pompeii in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Don't leave the town's historic harbor without sampling some local specialties. Perhaps say salute to a swift and zesty limoncello – it's the perfect after-dinner digestivo.

Wind your way through Umbria’s rolling hills to the town of Assisi, home of St. Francis. Your Travel Director will show you around this hilltop spot, including the basilica where the beloved saint, known for his simple, joyful way of life, now rests.

• See the Basilica of St Francis

Today we cross the dramatic Apennine Mountains bound for the charismatic calle of Venice, once a maritime powerhouse whose influences can be found all across the Eastern Mediterranean. The winged lion remains an enduring symbol of Venice, and is an image you'll see often as you explore the city over the next few days. You will arrive just in time for an optional gondola ride and Grand Canal cruise – grand palazzi, churches and ornate bridges lining your journey. Then later, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Take to the waters of the lagoon and cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square, the gateway to the city. Admire the ornate Doge's Palace, the Basilica of St. Mark and the Bridge of Sighs, so named because of the sound prisoners made as they took one last look at their beloved city from the bridge before meeting their fate. There's time on your own to explore, before you visit to a glassblowing workshop. Here, you’ll see the talents of master craftsmen at work on the beautiful glassware Venice is famed for. This afternoon, perhaps join an Optional Experience to the vibrant, rainbow-colored facades of Burano island, a beacon for resident fishermen seeking a safe journey home across the lagoon.

• Learn about the History and Ancient Skills of Venetian Glassblowing
• Venice Orientation

From Roman ruins to Renaissance elegance, Verona is a city rich in history and atmosphere. Begin your day exploring its historic center, where you’ll view the impressive Roman Arena — still a celebrated venue for open-air performances — and stroll through Piazza Bra, lined with cafes and elegant buildings. Continue across the Swiss border to the charming lakeside resort of Lugano, where Swiss and Mediterranean cultures blend beautifully. Return to Italy this evening and enjoy a delicious dinner.

• Verona Orientation

Today is all yours in Milan, so make it count. Go boutique browsing, stroll past handsome piazzas, sip espresso like a local and let a lazy lunch roll into an Aperol Spritz or two. From chic streets to people-watching gold, this city knows how to put on a show. Fancy a little extra glamour? You can also choose an Optional Experience with a Local Specialist to explore stylish Milan and beautiful Lake Como.

You’ve always wanted to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and now you’re here! We’ll take you to snap a few strategic photos featuring you and the famous leaning tower, then there's time to admire Pisa's Romanesque Square of Miracles in all its marble glory. The structures here are said to symbolize the three main stages of human life – the Baptistery (birth), the Cathedral (life) and the Camposanto (death). Then continue towards Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. For a taste of Tuscany, consider joining an Optional Experience in the Tuscan countryside with regional favorites, live music and a glass or two of delicious Chianti.

• See Pisa's Landmarks

No expense was spared enriching the city of Florence through art and architecture and you'll see first-hand how this city paved its way to the modern age. Join a Local Specialist this morning for a fascinating account of Florentine history during a walking tour of its historic center, including views of the Ponte Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery. Visit Piazza della Signoria, the city's main square where many political and artistic treasures can be seen, then browse the centuries-old trades of gold and leathercraft. This afternoon, perhaps head up to Piazzale Michelangelo and admire the views over Florence's iconic skyline.

• Florence City Tour

Siena's fortified walls, towers and palaces emerge from the rolling countryside on your journey through the beautiful Chianti region. This former economic and military power today hosts the Palio horse race, injecting a shot of color amidst the burnt sienna facades of the city's Il Campo. Your visit will reveal the city's rich heritage, architecture and cuisine, most notably why Siena is renowned for its signature panforte fruit cake, which you have to sample during a visit to a pasticceria. Leaving Tuscany behind, we return to Rome for one final encounter with the Eternal City, or join your fellow travelers for an Optional Experience dinner to end your holiday on a high note.

• See Siena's Highlights

The Italian dream of eating well, laughing often and loving much will linger long after your Splendors of Italy tour comes to an end this morning. Say a fond arrivederci to your travel companions and Travel Director, reminiscing over epic shared memories along these unforgettable 13 days in Italy.