Real Italy

Begin your Italian adventure in the heart of Rome, where ancient wonders and vibrant culture await. As the city buzzes with excitement during the Jubilee Year, you'll settle into your hotel (Hilton Rome or similar) and prepare for an unforgettable journey. Stroll through storied streets once walked by emperors and gladiators before gathering with your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delicious welcome dinner, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Delve into Rome’s artistic and spiritual treasures with a guided exploration of the Vatican Museums, where masterpieces await at every turn. Marvel at Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes in the Sistine Chapel before crossing the Tiber to uncover the grandeur of Ancient Rome with an in-depth visit to the Colosseum. Should Jubilee crowds limit access to the Vatican, your journey will instead lead you to the Capitoline Museums, perched atop Capitoline Hill, offering panoramic views of the Roman Forum. The afternoon is yours to relax in a charming piazza or wander through Rome’s enchanting neighborhoods.

Depart Rome and journey north, passing the picturesque hilltop towns of Orte and Orvieto. Traverse the dramatic landscapes of the Apennine Mountains, where rolling hills and charming villages dot the horizon. By afternoon, arrive in the enchanting city of Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic, where canals and timeless beauty await. Settle into your hotel (Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal or similar) and prepare to explore this magical city.

Awaken to the allure of Venice and witness the artistry of Venetian glassblowers during a captivating workshop. Glide along the city’s iconic waterways on a private cruise to St. Mark’s Square, where the Byzantine splendor of St. Mark’s Basilica, the legendary Bridge of Sighs, and the ornate Doge’s Palace await your admiration. The afternoon is yours to lose yourself in the city’s winding alleys or unwind with a classic Venetian spritz at a local café.

Travel to the vibrant city of Bologna, where medieval towers and Renaissance architecture create a captivating backdrop. A Local Specialist will introduce you to the city’s highlights, from its red-tiled rooftops to its bustling piazzas. As evening falls, opt for a memorable dining experience in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, savoring regional cuisine and fine wines before retiring to your countryside accommodation (Villa Lecchi or similar).

Discover Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where art and history come alive at every turn. Join a Local Specialist to admire the city’s architectural marvels, including the colorful Duomo and the gilded doors of the Baptistery. The afternoon invites you to explore further—perhaps visit the Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo’s David, enjoy panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo, or delve into the Medici legacy at Palazzo Vecchio. In the evening, connect with locals during a special Be My Guest dinner, enjoying authentic Tuscan hospitality.

Journey south through Italy’s scenic landscapes to the legendary ruins of Pompeii, where a Local Specialist will guide you through streets and homes frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Continue to the charming town of Sorrento, perched above the sparkling Bay of Naples. Settle into your hotel (Grand Hotel Vesuvio or similar) and enjoy a relaxed dinner, sharing stories and savoring the flavors of southern Italy.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Sorrento, with the option to embark on a breathtaking drive along the Amalfi Coast. If you choose this excursion, you’ll visit the picturesque town of Positano, renowned for its pastel-hued houses and stunning sea views. Return to Sorrento for free time to explore local shops or relax at a café. In the evening, choose between dining at a family-run restaurant in town or experiencing a traditional farmhouse dinner in the countryside.

Board a jetfoil to the glamorous island of Capri, where a Local Specialist will introduce you to its chic streets and storied piazzas. Opt for a boat cruise to admire the island’s dramatic coastline, including the iconic Faraglioni rocks and the ethereal White Grotto. Later, journey north to Rome for your final night, enjoying a farewell dinner with your Travel Director and fellow travelers at your hotel (Hilton Rome or similar).

Bid farewell to Italy as your unforgettable journey comes to a close. Transfers are available to Rome Fiumicino Airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure after a remarkable multi-day tour through the heart of Italy.