Board your overnight flight to Milan today.

Day 2: Arrival in Milan & transfer to Lake Como Region
Included meal: Welcome dinner
Take a deep respiro, or breath—you’re in Italy! After arriving in Milan, you’ll transfer to your hotel in the Lake Como region. Relax and unpack before meeting your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner served with beer or wine.  

Day 3: Villa Carlotta visit
Included meal: Breakfast
Start the day with a visit to Villa Carlotta, a lush botanical garden and art museum with striking, sparkling views of Lake Como. Built at the end of the 17th century by the marquises Clerici of Milan, it boasts fragrant rose gardens, splashy azalea bushes, and a pair of citrus-rimmed tunnels that date to the first occupants of the villa.
Afterward, you can choose to return to your hotel and unwind, or do some solo exploration. Alternatively, take to the glittering waters of Lake Como by adding a scenic cruise to your itinerary. You’ll float by some of Italy’s most sumptuous residences and gardens, and stop in the village of Bellagio for good measure.
Please note: From November through March, an ascent by funicular to the village of Brunate will replace the visit to Villa Carlotta—another breathtaking way to take in a panoramic view of Lake Como and the Alps

Day 4: Venice via Verona
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s easy to fall in love in, and with, Verona and its maze of ancient Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine architecture tucked into the bends of the Adige River. No wonder it served as the backdrop for Romeo and Juliet. Join your Tour Director for a walk through this UNESCO-recognized city center.
Imagine your own “Oh, Romeo, Romeo” moment with a visit to Casa di Giulietta, site of the famous balcony built in honor of Shakespeare’s tale of the ill-fated lovers.
Soak in the history in the oldest square in Verona, Piazza delle Erbe, then enjoy some free time to explore the less crowded Gothic architecture of Piazza Dante—named for Italian poet Dante Alighieri of The Divine Comedy fame.
Marvel at the grandeur of the 2,000-year-old Verona Arena, still in use today, whose pink and white stones have stood witness to gladiator shows, opera productions, and modern concerts.
Enjoy free time to explore Verona on your own. Continue to Venice where you’ll wind down the day with your fellow travelers over an included dinner served with beer or wine.

Day 5: Sightseeing tour of Venice
Included meal: Breakfast
Surrender to the beauty of Venice’s labyrinthine canals, elegant bridges, and ornate Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Close your eyes and let the sound of lapping water and the passing gondolas soothe you, but not for too long—there’s so much to see! You’ll meet up with your local guide and explore the heart of Venice on foot and by vaporetto, or water taxi.
Feel the energy of St. Mark’s Square, with its thriving cafes and sumptuous buildings, and marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica.
See the Bridge of Sighs, named after the suggestion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of their beloved Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells in the New Prisons.
Watch a Murano glass blowing demonstration where artisans keep the Venetian glasswork tradition alive. Observe as they skillfully use the distinctive millefiori technique—where intricate patterns are created by fusing together tiny glass rods.
Spend a free afternoon exploring Venice’s canals or add an excursion.
Please note: On some departures travelers may enter St. Mark's Basilica after the sightseeing tour based on ticket time availability.

Day 6: Florence via Ferrara
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Sulla strada per Firenze (that’s Italian for “on the way to Florence”), stop in Ferrara, a city center wrapped in defensive walls and surrounded by agricultural land. You’ll immerse yourself in the Renaissance splendor of the city center as you wander along its cobblestone streets. Take in the majestic Este Castle—watch out for the moats—and the Palazzo dei Diamanti, named for the 8,000 pink and white diamond-shaped blocks that cover its facade. 
End the day in Florence and linger with your fellow travelers over an included dinner, served with beer or wine.  

Day 7: Sightseeing tour of Florence
Included meal: Breakfast
Florence was the beating heart of the Renaissance period and is the final resting place of luminaries such as Galileo, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli.
Admire the architectural masterpiece of Florence Cathedral (Duomo) with its iconic dome, complemented by the Gothic beauty of Giotto’s Campanile—a freestanding bell tower adorned with colorful marble panels and detailed relief work.
Wander across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with charming shops, offering stunning views of the Arno River.
Explore the renowned Basilica of Santa Croce, a 13th-century Franciscan church containing magnificent frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis and the tombs of Michelangelo and Niccolo Machiavelli.
Enjoy free time in Florence or add an excursion.

Day 8: Free day in Florence
Included meal: Breakfast
The day is yours! Enjoy a free day in Florence or add an excursion to the Tuscan hill towns.  
Need inspiration for your day in town? Escape the crowds and wander through the Boboli Gardens, located behind the grand Pitti Palace. Explore the extensive greenery, hidden pathways, and stunning sculptures in this peaceful oasis. Dive into the vibrant Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, serving locals for more than 100 years. Smaller than its more famous counterpart, the Mercato Centrale, you’ll get an intimate and authentic appreciation for how Florentines live. Browse through market stalls bursting with fresh produce, regional delicacies, and traditional wares. Join the locals for a coffee or a bite to eat at the market’s lively cafes. 

Day 9: Transfer to Assisi and sightseeing tour
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
The route from Florence to Assisi takes you through the picturesque landscapes of central Italy. As you leave Florence behind, you’ll journey through rolling hills, vineyards, and idyllic Tuscan countryside dotted with cypress trees and quaint farmhouses.
Visit the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi  and admire the stunning frescoes by renowned artists, including Giotto, depicting the life of Saint Francis.
Take in the serene and spiritual hilltop sights before ending the night with the included cena—dinner—served with beer or wine.
Please note: The Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi is closed on Sundays for worship.

Day 10: Free day in Assisi
Included meal: Breakfast
You’ll be so glad that you have more time in Assisi. Take time to lose yourself in the medieval streets of Assisi’s historic center, characterized by stone buildings, piazzas, and alleyways. Discover local artisan shops, cozy cafés, and hidden corners you’ll treasure. Looking for more guided exploration? Join the optional excursion to Perugia, brimming with Renaissance art and architecture, where you’ll enjoy an expert-led tour, Umbrian cuisine, and a visit to a cave wine cellar—with a tasting, of course.  

Day 11: Sorrento Peninsula via Pompeii
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
On our way to the Sorrento peninsula, stop in Pompeii. Step into an ancient city frozen in time, where excavated ruins unveil the daily life and tragedy of a bygone civilization. Marvel at the well-preserved streets, houses, and public buildings that offer a glimpse into the life of ancient Romans.  
Continue to the Sorrento peninsula and sit down for an included dinner served with beer or wine. 

Day 12: Free day on the Sorrento Peninsula
Included meal: Breakfast
With the Sorrento peninsula as your stomping ground for the day, add an optional excursion to the resort island of Capri. Or, use this free day to journey to nearby Positano or Amalfi on your own for a hike up narrow, colorful streets or scenic coastal trails. Al fresco dining with a cliffside view is a must.  

Day 13: Transfer to Rome & sightseeing tour
Included meal: Breakfast
Step into Rome, a living tapestry of contradictions where ancient ruins coexist with a vibrant, modern spirit. Lose yourself in a chaotic symphony of honking Vespas, busy markets, and secret alleyways.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Imperial Rome, where history unfolds around every corner.
Experience the awe-inspiring Colosseum, the monumental amphitheater that echoes with the roar of ancient spectacles where you can walk in the footsteps of gladiators and feel the weight of history.
Traverse the evocative ruins of the Forum, once the pulsating heart of Roman life. Imagine the echoes of parades and gripping trials as you explore the remnants of this ancient marketplace.
See Palatine Hill, one of the oldest parts of the city and said to be the birthplace of Rome itself.

Day 14: Free day in Rome
Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner
On your free day in Rome, you can discover the hidden gem of Trastevere, a bohemian and mostly car-free neighborhood filled with narrow streets and delectable trattorias. Need a moment of respite? Visit the picturesque Aventine Hill, home to the peaceful Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) and the famous keyhole view of St. Peter’s Basilica—which you can visit by adding the guided tour of Vatican City to your day. Here, you’ll also experience the grandeur and serene beauty of the Vatican Museum, as well as the Sistine Chapel’s venerated ceiling fresco. The day is yours to seize.
Finally, join your group at tonight’s farewell dinner, served with beer or wine. You’ll be treated to a multi-course traditional Italian meal and a hearty helping of live traditional entertainment.

Day 15: Departure - Flight Home
Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)
Transfer to the airport for your flight home or resta ancora un po'—Italian for stay a little longer—to relish more of Rome’s unforgettable sites.   

Rome extension
Rome wasn’t built in a day and, if you ask us, it wasn’t meant to be enjoyed in a day either. We know you’ll want more time in the Eternal City. Whether you play time-traveler while hopping between historic sites or live out your best take on Roman Holiday, it’s in your hands, and we’re here to help. Ask your Tour Director for their favorite ways to savor the city—like their secret spot for pasta carbonara—and get going!

Day 15: Free day in Rome
Included meal: Breakfast
Use your free day in Rome to enjoy the city at your own pace. Be sure to ask your Tour Director for recommendations—there’s more to Rome than meets the eye, including beneath the city. Did you know that you can descend into eerie underground chambers adorned with bones and skeletal remains in a unique display of artistic macabre at the Capuchin Crypt, also known as the Bone Chapel? And when in Rome, do as the Romans do and bring a refillable water bottle to top off at any of the city's nasoni—cast-iron water fountains.  
Don’t feel like making decisions? Add a guided walking tour through Rome where you can delight in the lushness of the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza Navona. How could this day get any better? Add a pasta-making class where you can end the evening dining on your own creation!   

Day 16: Free day in Rome
Included meal: Breakfast
It’s your final full day in Rome. You won’t want to skip the guided tour of St. Paul’s Basilica—one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas.  
Prefer to spend the day on your own? Whether you want to take it easy over a morning cappuccino or take in the beauty of the Galleria Borghese’s art collection, the day belongs to you.   
Celebrate your trip and raise your glass for a farewell drink with your fellow group members on your last night in Rome.  

Day 17: Departure - Flight Home
Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)