Explore hidden cobblestone streets, watch the world go by from a sidewalk cafe, sail across beautiful blue waters and delight at the local specialties on this incomparable Italian vacation. If you’ve envisioned it, you’ll see it, hear it, experience it, and taste it on this scenic and scintillating tour of Italy—from the historic Colosseum of Rome to the song-filled canals of Venice, the quiet back alleys of Assisi to the bold storefronts of Milan, and the sweet views of Lake Como to the bittersweet Aperol liqueur of Padua. Warm locals welcome you in each ancient city, medieval village, and indulgent resort, sharing with youth stories behind the architecture, the tales behind the sculptures, the meaning behind the brushstrokes, and if you’re lucky, the secret ingredients on your plate!PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Venice so you can plan your day your way.
Special Features Included in this Tour: • Guided sightseeing in Rome includes a visit to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square and Colosseum• Visit to Orvieto• Visit to the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi• Guided walking tour in Florence’s historic center• Orientation drive in Padua plus an [LF] Italian aperitivo at Café Pedrocchi• Globus Choice excursions in Venice − Included in your tour with your choice of a guided walking tour to see St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs, or an aperitivo in a historic St. Mark’s Square caffè• Orientation walk in Verona• Orientation walk in Milan features sights of La Scala Opera House, the Galleria, and Duomo• [LF] private boat ride across Lake Como to the beautiful village of Bellagio
Notes: The Vatican Museums are wheelchair accessible, but the entrance and route differ from those of the included guided visit. 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 Rome! At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant Dinner
Day 2 ROME
When in Rome Discover the timeless beauty of Rome with a guided sightseeing of the Eternal City. Be transported back to Ancient Rome when you stand in the Colosseum and hear stories of Gladiators and Emperors. Enter the Vatican City State for a visit of the extensive Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square, and the spectacular St. Peter's Basilica. Free time late afternoon and evening to take in more sights and experiences.* (B)
* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES Stand in awe and wonder amid one of mankind’s greatest artistic achievements in the Sistine Chapel. Hear how in 1508, a young Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to decorate the chapel’s ceiling – a request not welcomed by the 33-year-old sculptor. Michelangelo’s 4-year project was indeed one of physical pain and psychological distress, while painting from scaffolds high above the sanctuary floor. Nevertheless, he created what is considered the most famous ceiling in the world, depicting the Creation of Adam in striking fresco style Breakfast
Day 3 ROME–ORVIETO–ASSISI
Historic Hilltops Depart Rome and drive into Umbria, the “green heart of Italy.” Stop in the hill town of Orvieto, perched dramatically on a plug of volcanic rock and dominated by a striking cathedral. Enjoy free time to explore Piazza del Duomo. Continue to the stunning town of Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis, visit the Basilica named after him and browse the charming streets. Free time this afternoon and evening. (B)
146mi / 235 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi with a visit to the Basilica named after the deacon, friar, and mystic, who became one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity. Revered for his love of the Eucharist and the Earth, Francis found communion with God through nature here in this Italian village where he lived and died. Marvel at the magnificent frescoes by Italian master Giotto that adorn the Basilica where the Saint is buried Breakfast
Day 4 ASSISI–FLORENCE–PADUA
Legendary Landmarks Florence is one of Italy’s most celebrated cities. Meet your Local Guide for 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. Later, drive across the Apennine Mountains and River Po to arrive in Padua. An orientation drive will familiarize you with the city while an [LF] Italian aperitivo (pre-dinner cocktail) at Café Pedrocchi will give you a real taste of local life. (B)
261 mi / 420 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES They say aperitivo is life. Indulge in the Italian specialties served at Café Pedrocchi with a traditional cocktail before dinner. From the Latin word for ‘open,’ aperitivi cocktails or wine are served between 6 and 9pm as an opener to the evening meal. Alla salute! Breakfast
Day 5 PADUA. EXCURSION TO VENICE
Spend your day your way in Venice A short drive to Venice, before taking a private boat ride along the Giudecca Canal. Prepare for breath taking views as you sail in front of the entrance to St Mark’s Square. On disembarking walk to an historic vetreria to meet a local glassblower and learn how the world-famous Murano glass is created. Explore more of Venice with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.
Enjoy a leisurely evening. (B)
56 mi / 90 km Breakfast
Day 6 PADUA–VERONA–MILAN
Ladies & Gentlemen of Verona Arrive in the elegant city of Verona, rich in history, but made famous by Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers. Enjoy a stroll to admire the main squares of Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra, with its pink marble Roman Arena. Continue to the bustling city of Milan for an orientation walk to see famous landmarks including La Scala Opera House, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Duomo. This evening free time to familiarize yourself with some local specialties for dinner. (B)
155 mi / 250 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Stroll through the grand piazzas of Verona, where the tradition of La Passeggiata (leisurely stroll) is alive and well near the site of the ancient forum. Where fruits, vegetables, and spices once filled the market squares, now eateries and shops share the space with the ancient arts of sumptuous fountains, monuments, architecture, and people-watching Breakfast
Day 7 MILAN. EXCURSION TO LAKE COMO
Life on the Lake Discover why Lake Como has attracted visitors since the Roman times as you take [LF] a private boat ride across it to the delightful town of Bellagio, known locally as the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Keep your eyes out for celebrities as you saunter along the lakefront promenade and charming alleyways. Back in Milan, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
106 mi /170 km
LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Glide on the gorgeous waters of Lago di Como on your private cruise to beautiful Bellagio - Lake Como’s most loved village with narrow streets and stunning views. A magical experience to take in Italy’s most famous lake BreakfastDinner
Day 8 MILAN
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Accommodations
Rome
Assisi
Assisi
Padua
Milan
St. Martin First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
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.
Grand Hotel Assisi First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Via Giovanni Renzi,2 Assisi Italy
Set in a charming place of peace, between the green of the olive trees of the surrounding hills, the Ròseo Hotel Assisi enhances the nuances, aromas and flavors of this earth uniting with the best hospitality and courtesy taste, refinement and elegance to the attention for every little detail.
Cenacolo First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
V.Le Patrono D'italia 70 Assisi Italy
Hotel Cenacolo Assisi is a structure created from the accurate and careful renovation of an old Franciscan convent, located in Santa Maria degli Angeli, a short distance from the Porziuncola of St. Francis. The wonderful atmosphere of the place, a beautiful view of Assisi, the wide green spaces that call for reflection and the functionality and efficiency of the Hotel Cenacolo guarantee a perfect stay.
Milano First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Via Pilade Bronzetti,62 Padova Italy
A modern 80-room property of minimalistic design, ideally located only steps away from the city's historic centre. Facilities include a gym, a restaurant serving tradisional local cuisine and there is also a bar/lounge.
Duo Milan Porta Nuova First-Class
Hotel as shown or similar
Via Gerolamo Cardano 1 Milan Italy
Duo Milan Porta Nuova is a vibrant lifestyle hotel located in the heart of Milan, where contemporary design meets playful charm. Its 239 guest rooms draw inspiration from vintage railway stations and classic funfairs, creating a youthful and energetic welcoming atmosphere. Each room includes tea and coffee-making facilities, an in-room safe, a mini fridge and a smart Tv. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a stylish on-site restaurant and bar serving Italian and international cuisine, a cozy lounge area for relaxation and Free Wi-Fi access through the property.