If you could weave together the perfect Italy vacation, what would you bring to the loom? The pastel palaces of Venice? The muted frescoes of Florence? The ornate piazzas of Rome? The azure waters of Capri? We’ve selected the most stunning scenes across the country to create a rich and rewarding tapestry of experiences on this visual and tactile tour of Italy. A gondola serenade in romantic Venice, a balsamic vinegar tasting in culinary Modena, a walking tour of Pompeii’s excavations, a Limoncello sampling in sunny Sorrento—they’re all part of a perfectly woven itinerary that starts in the “Floating City,” coasts through the rolling green Tuscan Hills, explores the “Eternal City” and then saunters south to the fashionable resort of Capri. In true Italian fashion, this vibrant and vivid tour of Italy is a work of art.PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Rome so you can plan your day your way.
Special Features Included in this Tour: • Guided walking tours in Venice, Florence and Siena• Private boat ride on Venice’s canals • [LF] Gondola ride along Venice’s canals • [LF] Balsamic vinegar tasting at the renowned Acetaia Leonardi in Modena • Visit to Florence’s Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo’s David statue• Guided sightseeing in Rome includes the St. Peter’s Square• Globus Choice excursions in Rome − included in your tour a guided culinary tour, or a guided walking tour of the historic Jewish Ghetto plus a visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary the Major • Guided walking tour of the archaeological site of Pompeii • Guided sightseeing in Capri features a funicular ride and a visit to the Augustus Gardens • Orientation walk of Pienza• Visit Sorrento
Notes: This tour requires walking on uneven terrain, especially at archaeological sites, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs. For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.We encourage all guests to prebook their preferred included Globus Choice excursions to ensure your selection is available. If your preference is not selected 35 days prior to departure, we will select a Choice excursion on your behalf based on availability.
Welcome to Venice! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel Dinner
Day 2 VENICE ISLAND
Italian Beauties Enjoy a private boat ride before meeting your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing walk. Hear about Venice’s colorful history as you admire St. Mark's Square and the ornate façades of the Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs. Meet a local glassblower to discover how the world-famous Murano glass is created. [LF] Appreciate Venice from a different perspective during a traditional gondola ride with music. Free time this afternoon and evening to meander along the canals and through the typical Venetian “calli and campi” (alleyways and squares).
LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Centuries ago, gondolas were the main form of transportation in Venice, powered by a gondolier with a single paddle to navigate the canals of this historic city. Today, Venetian gondoliers continue generations of family tradition to squire visitors through the iconic waterways while passengers are serenaded with romantic Italian ballads
Day 3 VENICE ISLAND–MODENA–FLORENCE
Sweet & Sour in Modena Back to mainland Italy for a drive across the River Po into Emilia-Romagna, often considered the epicenter of Italian gastronomy. A real treat today, with a [LF] balsamic vinegar tasting at the renowned Acetaia Leonardi of Modena. Later, continue across the Apennine Mountains to reach Florence. (B)
214 mi / 345 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURE & TRADITION Creating classic Balsamic Vinegar requires the patience learned through four generations of devotion and respect for the 18th-century traditions at Acetaia Leonardi farm. The farm sits on 27 acres of vineyards where Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes are grown to produce this delicate balance of sweet and sour Modena specialty Breakfast
Day 4 FLORENCE–SIENA
Fine Art in Firenze Florence is one of Italy’s most celebrated cities. Meet your Local Guide for a visit of the Academy of Fine Arts, to see Michelangelo’s David statue, followed by a walk through the historic center, stopping to admire and learn more about the cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry’s “Gates of Paradise,” and the sculptures of Signoria Square. Enjoy some free time before departing for Siena. (B)
62 mi / 100 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Those lucky enough to visit the Tuscan capital are witness to some of the world’s most magnificent art. Home to a wealth of Rennaissance masterpieces, Florence is famous for Michelangelo’s Marble Masterpiece, David, standing ready for battle in the Academy of Fine Arts. Outside, the Piazza del Duomo and Signoria Square offer spectacular sights of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance art, architecture, and monuments Breakfast
Day 5 SIENA–PIENZA–ROME
Heart & Soul in Siena This morning, join your Local Guide for a walking tour through the undulating medieval streets of Siena. Visit the Piazza del Campo, the hub of this delightful city where twice a year the Palio is held, a horse race fiercely contended between the local contrade (city wards). Also see the black and white Gothic cathedral. Arrive in Pienza, a lesser-known Tuscan gem, join the orientation walk and enjoy free time for lunch and to stroll the charming streets. Continue on to Rome. (B)
155 mi / 250 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Perched within Italy’s stunning Tuscany region, the medieval city of Siena is a treasure trove of medieval architecture. The 13th-century Piazza del Campo remains the heart of Siena, where locals stroll and socialize as they have done for centuries. The Duomo di Siena stands majestically with its black and white marble façade amid the serenity of Siena’s streets and squares Breakfast
Day 6 ROME
Spend your day your way in Rome This morning follow your Local Guide for a fascinating sightseeing tour that features St. Peter’s Square with views of the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica. Explore more of Rome with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Enjoy some leisure time this afternoon and evening to explore more of Rome.* (B)
*For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded Breakfast
Day 7 ROME–POMPEII–SORRENTO AREA
Time Stands Still in Pompeii Together with a Local Guide, visit the incredible excavations of Pompeii. As you walk along the ancient streets, hear about day-to-day life under the Roman Empire and discover what happened when Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. After some free time for lunch, enjoy a scenic drive around the Bay of Naples towards Sorrento. (B)
174 mi / 280 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE The fascinating archaeological site of Pompeii is a treasured glimpse into Roman life near the Bay of Naples. This once thriving and sophisticated Roman city was consumed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., with its residents and structures buried beneath inescapable ash and stone. See the preserved site of excavated ruins that reveal remarkable frescoes, artwork, and artifacts within its streets and dwellings of the people who perished here Breakfast
Day 8 SORRENTO AREA. EXCURSION TO CAPRI
Coves, Cliffs & The Clear Blue Sea Relax on a jetfoil as you cross the Bay of Naples to the captivating island of Capri. Join your Local Guide for a funicular ride from the harbour to Capri village followed by a guided sightseeing. Visit the Augustus Gardens and admire the incredible views of the iconic Faraglioni rocks. Return to the mainland for free time. This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner with Limoncello at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Nestled high above the sea on the island of Capri lie the exquisite Gardens of Augustus. This natural paradise promises 180-degree panoramic views and a kaleidoscope of botanical beauty on the cliffs overlooking the island and the sapphire sea below. Toast the view with a glass of granita for a frozen treat amid the sun-washed monuments and mesmerizing vistas BreakfastDinner
Day 9 SORRENTO AREA
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. The nearest airport is Naples.
Accommodations
Venice Island
Florence
Siena
Rome
Rome
Rome
Sorrento Area
Carlton on the Grand Canal First-Class
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Santa Croce, 578 Venezia Italy
A plush traditional Venetian style hotel set in a majestic four story building with refined interiors such as Murano glass wall lamps and gilt-edged furniture. Perfectly placed on the Grand Canal, with a vaporetto stop right outside and close to the main train station, this property offers great transportation access with the Rialto Bridge close by. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property which has an elegant fine-dining restaurant, a lobby bar, and a lovely rooftop terrace where drinks are served with views of the spired city skyline as a backdrop. 145 air-conditioned classically styled guestrooms offer coffee/tea-making facilities.
Una Hotel Vittoria First-Class
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Via Pisana 59 Florence Italy
This is a contemporary designed hotel located in the historic San Frediano district, offering a peaceful retreat and just a short distance from the bustling heart of Florence. This hotel offers a tranquil setting while still being conveniently close to the Arno River and the city center and boasts a stylish and modern design, evident in its common areas. All 84 air-conditioned guest rooms, designed with a focus on comfort and style, are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Savor the chef¿s delicious Tuscan and international cuisine in the in-site restaurant, or sip on a cocktail in the lounge bar or courtyard.
NH Siena First-Class
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Piazza La Lizza Siena Italy
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Della Conciliazione First-Class
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Via Borgo Pio 164 Roma Italy
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St. Martin First-Class
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Via San Martino Della Battaglia 58 Rome Italy
Located in Rome's city center opposite Castro Pretorio metro station, this classic hotel is housed in a historical building and boasts an in-house restaurant, a lounge bar, and cozy guestrooms. All 175 guestrooms are equipped with air conditioning, satellite flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica is 1.3 km from the hotel, while Rome's Termini Central Station is a 10-minute walk away.
Radisson Blu Rome First-Class
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Via Domenico Chelini, 41 Rome Italy
Radisson Blu Rome is situated just a few minutes away from Via Veneto & the city's historic center. It has 285 sophisticated, air-conditioned rooms, all fully equipped with an LED TV, Free Wi-Fi, a minibar, desk and a bathroom furnished with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Classic Mediterranean delicacies, an aperitivo or a glass of Champagne can be enjoyed on the stylish 7th floor roof restaurant and bar and there is also a fitness room.
Hilton Sorrento Palace First-Class
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Via S. Antonio 13 Casella Postale 210 Sorrento Italy
Situated high above the town with stunning views across the Bay of Naples and of Mount Vesuvius, this lovely 374-room modern hotel offers luxurious comfort in exquisite surroundings. It is just a few minutes' walk downhill from the center of Sorrento with its handicraft shops, restaurants, wine bars, and ice cream parlors. Complimentary free Wi-Fi access is available in the lobby and access in guestrooms is subject to a fee (payable locally). Leisure facilities include six beautiful cascading outdoor swimming pools, an indoor grotto style pool, fitness room, and tennis court. A variety of regional cuisine and fresh seafood is served in the hotel's main restaurant, rustic Neopolitan delights and refreshing drinks are served at lunchtime in the open-air poolside bar & restaurant and for leisurely evening drinks there is a sleek informal lounge bar with live music and seasonal outdoor terraces. Spacious sea-view rooms combine Mediterranean warmth with contemporary elegance and include floor to ceiling windows, air-conditioning and coffee/tea-making facilities.