K100 ~ VENICE, FLORENCE, ROME

We begin our exploration of Venice with a boat ride to the Murano Island, famous for its artistic glassware. Visit a glassblowing factory, where you will watch a demonstration of traditional Venetian glassblowing by master craftsmen. Then, on to St. Mark’s Square, for the walking tour, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and enjoying views of the Bell Tower and Bridge of Sighs. The balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy Venice at your own pace, shop, or perhaps join an optional gondola ride. (B)

Drive to Ferrara, a Renaissance gem in the Emilia-Romagna region, standing on the banks of the Po River. After an orientation tour, continue to Pisa where you’ll view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Duomo. Then on to Florence for dinner and a free evening. (B, D)

Today’s morning city tour begins at the majestic Piazza del Duomo to see the Cathedral crowned by Brunelleschi’s awe-inspiring Dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s splendid bronze “Gates of Paradise.” Then, visit the Academy of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo’s David is displayed. The tour ends at the Piazzale Michelangelo with a spectacular view over Florence. The remainder of the day is yours to savor the Renaissance splendor of the Tuscan capital your own way. (B)

Travel through the stunning panorama of Tuscany with its iconic landscapes as you make your way to Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis. Here, take a walking tour to see the main square and visit the impressive Basilica of St. Francis. Continue to Rome for dinner and an evening at leisure. (B, D)

A full-day sightseeing tour shows you all the highlights of the incomparable Eternal City. Visit the Vatican Museums with moving Sistine Chapel and grand St. Peter’s Basilica. Then on to visit the Coliseum, ancient Palatine Hill overlooking Circus Maximus and the Imperial Palace, and the Roman Forum. (B, L)

Your day is free in spectacular Rome! Your Tour Director will have suggestions on how to spend your time. You might want to visit some of the chic shops, galleries, and museums; do some more sightseeing on your own or relax in a sidewalk cafe with a glass of fine Italian wine, a cold Limoncello, some refreshing gelato, or a hearty dish of pasta. Tonight, a festive farewell dinner with your fellow travelers is the perfect way to celebrate your glimpse of Italy. (B, D)

One last breakfast in Italy before you are transferred to Rome’s airport. Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)