ItalyTourTravel

Venice, Florence, and Rome

The romance of Italy, the people and the lush landscapes that have inspired the imagination of poets, artists, and writers for centuries is yours to discover in the great cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome. Explore the masterpieces of Italy's enchanting cultural legacy, from the seductive beauty of Tuscany's diverse countryside to the timeless architecture of Rome, capital of the ancient world.

Tour Itinerary

1. Arrive Venice
Tour departs: Venice's Marco Polo Airport one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Welcome to one of the world's most unique cities, from its unusual design along an intricate system of canals to its amazing history dating back to the Middle Ages. Following lunch, and with the expert eyes of a local guide, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city's highlights. Discover the treasures of Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square), the center of Venice. Visit one of the greatest buildings in Europe, dramatic St. Mark's Basillica, featuring exquisite mosaics and detailed carvings. You'll also visit Palazzo Ducale, the sumptuous Doges' Palace, which was the official residence of the rulers of Venice in the Middle Ages; a vast collection of art treasures includes Paradise by Tintoretto. We invite you to join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. Meals LD

2. Explore Venice
One of Italy's most respected art museums is Galleria dell'Accademia, featuring a collection of Venetian paintings and works by artists such as Bellini, Titian and Tintoretto. Ranging from the medieval period through the Renaissance, Baroque and beyond, the works chronicle the achievements of the Venetian school. Spend the remainder of the day exploring Venice as you please. Possibilities include unique museums such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which features an extraordinary collection of modern art; housed in an 18th-century palazzo, it is one of Venice's most visited sights. Meals B

3. Murano / Torcello by Boat
Travel beyond Venice today by boat to a small cluster of islands known as Murano. For centuries Murano has been considered one of the premier centers for glassmaking in Europe. Travel to the island of Torcello, where some of the oldest architecture in the area is found, including the cathedral of Santa Maria dell'Assunta. The remainder of the day is at your leisure in Venice. Meals BL

4. Rail to Florence
Travel by rail across the plains of the historic Po River to Florence, set in the pastoral Italian countryside. Called the "Birthplace of the Renaissance" for the art and architecture that flourished between the 13th and 16th centuries, Florence is a delight for art lovers. A lecture by an art historian provides a good introduction to sights such as the magnificent bronze doors of the fascinating octagonal-shaped Baptistry, The artist Ghiberti took more than 20 years to create two sets of these bronze doors, which artist Michelangelo declared to be the "Gates of Paradise." Meals BLD

5. Florence at Leisure
Join us for a visit to one of the world's most acclaimed art museums, the Galleria dell' Accademia. Reservations have also been made at the Uffizi Gallery this morning to view its wonderful works of art at your leisure. The masterpieces of the Pitti Palace? Michelangelo's marble creations in the Medici Chapels? A stroll across famous Ponte Vecchio or restful contemplation in the beautiful Boboli Gardens? The list of inspiring sights and activities is endless. The remainder of the day is free to spend as you please; most of these sights are fairly close and easy to get to. If you wish to shop, Florentine arts and crafts are known for their high quality; the many small shops are a delight. Meals B

6. Siena / Rome
Journey through the Chianti region, world-famous for its red wine. Quintessential landscapes feature olive groves, vineyards, cypresses, medieval towns and timeless examples of art and architecture. Journey to medieval Siena, and walk to the Piazza del Campo, a beautiful shell-shaped square that is the site of the Palio, Siena's well-known biannual horse race. Wander through the narrow streets to visit the Duomo, a cathedral that is a black and white marble masterpiece. Travel through the green countryside of Tuscany and Lazio to Rome, the "Eternal City" and capital of Italy. Spend the next three nights at one of Europe's premier properties, the St. Regis Grand Hotel. Meals BD

7. Explore Rome
The home of the powerful Roman Empire, Rome has influenced art, architecture, literature and government throughout the western world for more than 2,000 years. This morning you'll experience this rich history as a local guide shows you the most important sights. See the Quirinale Palace, Piazza Venezia, Roman Forum, Colosseum and other landmarks. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore Rome. Meals B

8. The Vatican
No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Vatican, a state and city all in one; see a vast collection of treasures in the Vatican Museum. Enter the Sistine Chapel to view Michelangelo's famous ceiling and the Last Judgment. These magnificent frescoes were recently refurbished and can be admired in their original fresh colors. Visit St. Peter's Basilica; spend the afternoon as you please before joining us for a farewell reception and dinner in Trastevere. Meals BD

9. Journey Home
Tour Ends: Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino 2 1/2 hours prior to the departure of our selected flight(s). Persons departing at other times should secure their own transportation. Taxi is approximately €75 Euros (US $75). Meals B

	9 Days / 8 Nights Begins Venice Mar 15, 29 Apr 12, 19, 24, 29 May 10, 17, 22, 27 Jun 3, 24 Jul 5, 19 Aug 16 Sep 9, 13, 20, 25, 30 Oct 11 Nov 1 Additional dates may become available as these sell out.

	Price Per Person: March and November Twin $3190 Single $4198 Triple $2942 April through October Twin $3590 Single $4622 Triple $3206 15 Meals Included. Transatlantic air is additional. Special Airfares - Tour operator offers special fares in coach or business class on select carriers departing various cities the evening prior to departure dates listed above (subject to availability). Persons taking these flights will be met by the Tour Director outside customs at Venice's Marco Polo Airport. Persons arriving on other flights have to take a water taxi to the first hotel, approx. €100 Euros (US $100).

	Night 1,2,3 Hotel Westin Europa & Regina Venice, Italy Night 4,5 Hotel Westin Excelsior Florence, Italy Night 6,7,8 St. Regis Grand Hotel Rome, Italy

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