Day 1. Arrive Rome
Tour departs: Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino one
hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Lying in the heart
of the Mediterranean, Italy is unrivaled for scenery, food, wine,
cultural arts, relics and ruins from ancient history. The legacy
of the Roman empire is experienced throughout Europe; within Italy
itself, the diversity of regions, variety of traditions, and difference
of lifestyles give an astonishing perspective on Italian influences
throughout the world. Explore the culturally-rich cities of Rome
and Florence with special "insider" local experts and
guides for an in-depth look at Italy, past and present! Upon arrival
in Rome, travel to central Italy's province of Umbria and the hilltop
town of Orvieto; the view of vineyards blanketing the plain is breathtaking.
Witness the magnificent façade of the Duomo, with its Renaissance-Gothic
history, before traveling amidst the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany
to the captivating city of Florence. Join us for a welcome reception
and dinner tonight. Meals LD
Day 2. Discover Florence
One look at the exquisite architecture, and it is easy to see why
Florence is called the "birthplace of Renaissance art and culture."
Florence today is both a noted fashion capital as well as a center
for ceramics, leather goods, specialty food items and wine. Join
our local "insider" for tips on where to find the best
bargains, a helpful explanation of some of the local customs, special
exhibits at museums or galleries, etc. Our "insider" accompanies
you to view landmark attractions in Florence; they include Santa
Croce, Palazzo di Parte Guelfa, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria
and Casa di Dante. Remainder of the day is spent at your leisure,
putting to use this morning's information! Meals B
Day 3. Art and Cooking
Italy's artists led the way for three centuries in the advent of
changing artistic styles; from Medieval art to stylized Renaissance
and Mannerist art, Classical ideals were born. This and more is
discussed by an art historian during a lecture this morning that
precedes visits to Uffizi Galleria and Galleria dell'Accademia,
where beloved works include Michelangelo's David; your afternoon
is free, perhaps to continue at the museums. Join us for a great
evening experiencing the pleasures of Tuscan cuisine at a cooking
demonstration featuring fresh local ingredients enhanced by local
olive oils, followed by dinner! Meals BD
Day 4. Hilltop Towns / Wine Tasting
Explore the beauty of Central Tuscany and the Chianti Classico region,
characterized by vineyard-clad hills and small hilltop towns rich
in medieval architecture. Journey to San Gimignano, featuring some
of Italy's best-preserved medieval buildings; this wine-producing
region is rich with wine estates and castles. Visit the renowned
wine estate of Castello Vicchiomaggio, a historic castle overlooking
the Greve Valley. A wine tasting of their celebrated products is
followed by a Tuscan lunch high atop Chianti. Meals BL
Day 5. Explore Timeless Rome
Travel by train aboard the sleek Eurostar from Florence to Rome,
enjoying tranquil winter landscapes often bathed in sunlight and
blue, bright skies. Our Rome "insider" greets you upon
arrival at your hotel, a renovated 19th-century "palazzo"
in central Rome. Tips today include trendy restaurants, shopping,
local specialties and cultural events. Embark on a sightseeing tour
with our fabulous local guide who has lived in Rome for years. Meals
BL
Day 6. Go "Inside" Vatican City
In addition to serving as the papal residence, "palaces"
of the Vatican house some of the world's greatest works of art and
architecture, including the Sistine Chapel; a tour includes the
papal apartments. Lovely Santa Croce in Gerusalemme is a pilgrimage
center; around 320 AD, Emperor Constantine converted his mother's
private palace into this church, where it housed what were believed
to be relics of the crucifixion of Christ brought back from Jerusalem.
Following your visit, attend a private music recital by the accomplished
pianist Daniela Morelli at the National Museum of Musical Instruments;
remainder of the day is free to explore. Meals B
Day 7. Rome at Leisure
Spend the entire day as you please, as an "insider" expert
exploring Rome! We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell
reception and dinner at a charming trattoria-style restaurant in
Trastevere! Meals BD
Day 8. Journey Home
Tour Ends: Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci Airport, Fiumicino, 2 1/2 hours
prior to the departure of our selected flight(s). Persons departing
at other times should secure their own individual transportation.
Meals B
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