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YOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart USA. Your exciting journey begins as you depart New York this evening on your overnight flight to Italy.

Day 2: Arrive Italy, Venice. Welcome to beautiful Italy! After landing at Venice airport, you’ll be met and escorted to your hotel which commands a scenic and convenient location on the Grand Canal within easy walk to many major attractions. This evening your Tour Director hosts an orientation followed by welcome dinner with wine. Grand Hotel Principe (D)

Day 3: Discover the charms of romantic Venice. First, embark on a boat tour to the island of Murano, world renowned for its glass craftmanship. Back in Venice a local guide will bring this remarkable city to life as you explore on foot St. Mark’s Square, the Golden Byzantine Basilica of San Marco, the lavish Doges’ Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. This afternoon marvel at Venice at your own pace or shop for unique local crafts. (B)

Day 4: Venice/Pisa/Florence. Today journey south to Pisa, where you’ll view the famous Piazza del Miracoli and the amazing Leaning Tower. Visit a Tuscan countryside farm for wine tasting and sampling of local specialties. Arrive in Florence, the splendid capital of Tuscany. Grand Hotel Cavour (B)

Day 5: This morning’s tour of Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, starts with a breathtaking view of Florence from Michelangelo Square. Proceed to visit the Accademia of Fine Arts housing Michelangelo’s celebrated David. You’ll also visit the sculpture-filled Signoria Square, the famous Duomo Cathedral and Ponte Vecchio, the “Old Bridge”, lined with craft shops. Afternoon at leisure to visit some of the museums that make Florence a magnet for artlovers and enjoy a stroll along the romantic Arno River. This evening a special treat awaits. Travel to the hills surrounding Florence and enjoy a typical dinner complete with wine and local entertainment at a picturesque Tuscan Villa. (B,D)

Day 6: Florence/Assisi/Rome. Depart south through the stunning panorama of Tuscany and Umbria to the Medieval hilltown of Assisi and view the fabled Basilica of St. Francis and Giotto's frescoes. Late afternoon arrival in Rome, the “Eternal City”. Settle into your centrally located hotel. Grand Hotel Palatino (B,D)

Day 7: A morning tour to the Vatican includes visits to St. Peter’s Basilica, the recently restored Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum abundant with priceless collections of art and treasures. Afternoon is at leisure for shopping or to indulge in Rome’s favorite pastime: people watching at the outdoor cafes of the bustling Via Veneto. (B)

Day 8: This morning explore Imperial Rome on an included guided tour. Listen to the echoes of Emperor Nero in the Colosseum, walk under the Arch and marvel at the ruins of the Roman Forum. Afternoon at leisure to explore Rome’s elaborate piazzas and fountains on your own. Tonight, you are our guest at a lavish gala dinner at a typical Roman restaurant complete with wine and entertainment. Cap your evening with a tour of illuminated Rome by night. (B,D)

Day 9: Rome/Pompeii/Sorrento. Depart Rome, passing Mt. Vesuvius en route to the Bay of Naples. Visit Pompeii, the town frozen in time by Vesuvius’ ashes. See the temples of Apollo and Jupiter. Your final destination today is the enchanting resort town of Sorrento, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the sparkling bay. Central Hotel (B,D)

Day 10: Sorrento is world renowned for its scenic splendor, woodworking and lace making, horse drawn carriages and relaxing atmosphere. A day at leisure to enjoy this charming town independently. You may join an optional full day excursion by hydrofoil to the fabled Isle of Capri where you’ll visit the colorful town center and wander along the narrow streets ($115). This evening celebrate with your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner in a famous local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 11: Sorrento. Final day at leisure to discover Sorrento’s charms at your own pace. You may also opt to explore the spectacular Amalfi coast. (B)

Day 12: Naples/USA. After breakfast, say “ciao” to romantic Italy as you transfer to Naples Airport and board your return flight to the USA arriving back the same day. (B)

YOUR TOUR INCLUDES: