10 days Reflections of Italy (2018)
Revel in the magic of Italy on this tour that explores the cities of Rome, Florence, Siena, Venice, Assisi, Perugia and Milan. Travel Italy and discover the rolling hills of the scenic Tuscan and Umbrian countryside, explore medieval hill towns and visit the birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi. Discover the masterpieces of the Renaissance in Florence and see hot glass transformed into exquisite art on Murano Island. Linger in romantic Venice for two nights discovering its treasures. Your journey comes to a close in Milan and includes a visit to the magnificent Gothic Cathedral – the Duomo.
| Day | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Overnight Flight. ( Not Included ) | Welcome to Italy, a land rich in history, culture, art and romance. Your journey begins with an overnight flight. |
| 2 | Rome, Italy - Tour Begins | We begin in Rome, the “Eternal City.” This evening, join your fellow travelers for a special welcome dinner at a popular local restaurant featuring regional delicacies and fine Italian wines. Dinner High Mediterraneo Hotel |
| 3 | Rome | This morning you’ll come to know the history and traditions of Rome while on a locally guided panoramic tour featuring the impressive Piazza Venezia, the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Constantine, the famous Piazza Navona, and a visit to the Colosseum. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps a trip to Vatican City, with an optional tour to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica,* will be on your personal sightseeing list. Breakfast Mediterraneo Hotel |
| 4 | Rome - Assisi - Perugia/Assisi | Ease your way into the local culture as your Tour Manager shares a few key Italian phrases. Travel to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis. Take in the old-world atmosphere on a guided walking tour of the old city, including the Basilica of St. Francis. Then you’re off to medieval Perugia, the historic capital of Umbria. Behold one of the grandest squares in Italy – the Piazza IV Novembre – and delight in the medieval palaces and ornate cathedrals. Breakfast Sangallo Palace Hotel |
| 5 | Perugia/Assisi - Siena - Florence | A scenic journey through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills brings you to the mystical city of Siena. Delight in its narrow Gothic streets, magnificent palaces and historic Piazza del Campo. After a walking tour with a local expert, take some time to explore the medieval corners of Siena. You are sure to find many surprises among its shops and outdoor cafés. Arrive in Florence and enjoy some free time before gathering for dinner. Breakfast & Dinner Hotel Albani Firenze |
| 6 | Florence | In Florence – the “Cradle of the Italian Renaissance” – visit the world-famous Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s incredible statue of David. During your cultural tour of Florence you'll also view the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Palazzo Vecchio and the Church of Santa Croce. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy this fascinating city on your own. Breakfast Hotel Albani Firenze |
| 7 | Florence - Venice | Start your day with a visit to a historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region. In the shadow of its 12th-century castle, learn about the winery’s famed Tuscan wines and enjoy a light lunch filled with local specialties. This afternoon, journey through central Italy, crossing the wooded Apennine Mountains toward the Valley of the Po. Enchanting Venice awaits with 117 tiny islands and its latticework of 150 canals and 400 bridges. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal |
| 8 | Venice - Murano Island - Venice | See Venice from the water as we board a boat** bound for Murano Island for an up-close glass making demonstration. Discover the secrets of this ancient art and marvel at the intricate designs of each one-of-a-kind piece. Then we make our way to St. Mark’s Square where it’s your choice! Join a local expert on a walking tour of this famous square to view the stunning Basilica and visit the impressive Doge’s Palace and the legendary Bridge of Sighs. Or, go off the beaten path to explore the Castello Sestiere district with a local expert; get to know authentic Venice and see for yourself how the locals live as you walk canal by canal through the narrow streets lined with churches and historic buildings. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore independently. Breakfast Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal |
| 9 | Venice - Milan Malpensa | Today you travel to Milan. Take in some of the city’s amazing sights on a locally guided walking tour: view the Opera House La Scala and Vittorio Emanuele Gallery, and visit the Duomo – this magnificent Gothic cathedral is the third largest church in Europe. Later, perhaps you will indulge in some shopping at the “Quadrilatero della Moda,” Milan’s high-fashion district. Continue to Milan Malpensa for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of an unforgettable trip. Breakfast & Dinner Crowne Plaza Milan Malpensa |
| 10 | Milan Malpensa - Tour Ends | Your journey comes to a close in Milan Malpensa this morning. Breakfast |