Italian Treasures: Venice to Amalfi

Rising from an enclosed lagoon on the Adriatic Sea, Venice is a byword for Old World romance and charm, from intricate Italian Gothic architecture to the iconic gondolas and vaporettos passing under the bridges that delicately span its canals and waterways.

Venture off the beaten path on a captivating walk through Venice’s hidden gardens and private palaces. Stroll through the lush, secluded spaces that have been a part of Venice’s history since the 1600s — secret enclaves of historical and social significance. Listen as your guide shares fascinating anecdotes about how locals managed to create these green sanctuaries in a city built on water. Explore the private palace gardens not typically open to the public, many of which are part of residences still inhabited by aristocratic families. After lunch in a local restaurant, visit the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.

Drive to Bologna, the cradle of Italian cuisine, where you take part in a hands-on lesson in the crafting of fresh pasta. Feast on the fruits of your labor before continuing across the Apennine Mountains to Florence.

Walk in the footsteps of Michelangelo as your guide leads you to some of his most iconic monuments across Florence. Start at the Accademia Gallery, where David, the world’s most celebrated statue, awaits. Admire this towering 17-foot figure, carved by a young Michelangelo from a single block of Carrara marble. Continue to the nearby Church of San Lorenzo and the Medici Chapels, and marvel at the Chapel of the Princes’ New Sacristy, adorned with Michelangelo’s statues Dawn, Dusk, Night and Day. Finish at the Church of Santa Croce, the final resting place of many renowned Florentines, including Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo. Inside, gaze upon the stunning frescoes of Giotto and Taddeo Gaddi. Step outside and explore the vibrant Santa Croce neighborhood, known for its high-quality leather. Later, receive exclusive A&K access to the Opera del Duomo restoration workshop, where Michelangelo worked.

Step into history and retrace the footsteps of the powerful Medici family. Begin at the Uffizi Gallery, beholding Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation and other historic works. Enter the Vasari Corridor, a private passageway built in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari to connect the Uffizi with the Palazzo Pitti, allowing the Medici family to move freely between their palaces without being seen. Make your way to the Boboli Gardens, a vast and beautifully landscaped park designed for the Medici family. Stroll this oasis of sculptures, fountains and breathtaking vistas, retracing the grandeur of the Medici dynasty.

Walk the enchanting streets of Orvieto, taking in its remarkable architecture, and gain insights into the city’s past, tracing its Etruscan roots to its flourishing medieval period. Visit the majestic Gothic cathedral, an architectural marvel. Step inside to view stunning frescoes reflecting centuries of artistic and religious devotion. Admire the cathedral’s facade, with its exquisite carvings and mosaics, before heading out to the idyllic countryside to delve into the region’s ancient winemaking traditions. Explore a distinguished local winery, its vineyards and historic Etruscan caves. Eat a light lunch paired with expertly selected wines, savoring the Umbrian cuisine.

Welcome to the Eternal City of Rome, a crumbling classic of romance and relics, where every sculpted cheek comes with a story. History is everywhere: be it the glory of the Colosseum, the tombs of ancient emperors or churches lavished with masterpieces. Rise early for entry to the Vatican Museums in the cooler, less-crowded part of the day. Behold the wonders of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica before exploring the quaint Trastevere neighborhood. Then join a local guide to view more of Rome’s classic sites, including entry to the Colosseum. This evening, indulge in an A&K-exclusive private visit to the Villa Medici, topping off the experience with a refreshing aperitivo.

Tour Rome’s historic core, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. After lunch at a local restaurant, your day is free for rest or recreation.

Whisk by high-speed train to Campania, arriving in Naples for an authentic pizza lunch in the city where the dish was born. Behold the wonders of the Roman past in the Archaeological Museum, including discoveries made at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Continue to Sorrento and your hotel overlooking the Gulf of Naples.

Explore Sorrento’s allure today with a guided walking tour through narrow, winding lanes, uncovering tales of ancient history and local legends. Discover panoramic viewpoints framing Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples. Immerse yourself in the lively Piazza Tasso, Sorrento’s cultural hub, and delve into art and history at the Museum Correale. Wrap up your adventure with a tasting of creamy buffalo mozzarella at a local restaurant.

Take in the alluring Amalfi Coast on one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, passing Positano and Praiano as you wend your way to charming Amalfi itself. Explore the town and take time for lunch before continuing to hilltop Ravello for some stunning views of the Mediterranean. Head back to Sorrento, where a delicious farewell dinner awaits.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.