Introduction
Italy is one of the world’s most captivating country’s to visit. Often nicknamed the Bel Paese (the Beautiful Country), this is a nation full of baroque architectural sites, mesmerizing landscapes and historic cities. Also famous for its trendy fashion, art and delicious cuisine, we have thoughtfully mixed these elements in an 11 day classic land tour. Ancient times come to life and along with the warmth of the culture, will make this a cherished lifetime memory.
Your adventure begins in Rome where you’ll see the Roman Forum, Colosseum and Trevi Fountain. Featured in many notable films, legend holds that if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are ensured a return. Outside of Rome is The Vatican City. Our guided tour explores the museums and Sistine Chapel, with its renowned ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Stand in the heart of St. Peter’s Square and gather with other guests in admiration of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Continue north through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Umbrian countryside to Orvieto and Montecatini Terme. Visit the city of Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower. Florence is next, where you will be surrounded by a city of churches and museums and see the 13th century Duomo with the Brunelleschi dome and the Piazza della Signoria. Drive northeast and stop in Bologna, home to the world’s oldest university, founded in 1088. Along the Adriatic coast is Venice and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll visit St. Mark’s Square and marvel at the magnificent Basilica and 323 foot tall bell tower. Take time to stroll along the winding canals. If romance is in the air, a popular gondola ride is the perfect setting.
From the coast, head inland to Verona. The spirit of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet ignite the city along with medieval buildings and towers. Visit Piazza delle Erbe, originally the Roman Forum and the 12th-century church of Duomo. Complete your classic tour of Italy in the global city of Milan. Bursting with fashion and design, spend time sightseeing the Gothic Cathedral built of white marble, which has a capacity to hold 40,000 and the La Scala Opera House.
Check out our Travel Blog for more tips and ideas for your Bella Italia Tour!
Trip includes
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Hotel Accommodations: 9 (8 for 2018 tour dates) nights of hotel accommocations based on twin/double double occupancy in moderate hotels.
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Sightseeing: and special events as listed in the itinerary.
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Meals: 9 breakfasts and 6 dinners (2017 dates) 8 breakfasts and 3 dinners (2018 dates) Note: (B, L, D) as noted at the end of itinerary text indicates meals included for that day.
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Baggage Handling: To and from your hotel room throughout your land tour for one piece of checked baggage per person.
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Service: Your tour is accompanied throughout by a professionally trained tour director who is knowledgeable on the local area and will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.
Activity Level
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Trip highlights
- Visit Rome, the “Eternal City," Florence and Venice, Italy’s three most spectacular and romantic cities, all with included sightseeing
- See the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo frescoes in the Vatican City
- Take a funicular up to the ancient town of Orvieto
- See for yourself and marvel at the angle of the Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Additional included sightseeing in Bologna, Orvieto, Verona and Milan
