Rome, Florence and Venice (63502021)

Day 1:
ARRIVE IN ROME, ITALY. Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this ancient capital. This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.

Day 2:
ROME. Steeped in history, the “Eternal City” is vibrantly alive and exciting, and absolutely unique! Start the included introduction to Rome 's landmarks from St. Peter 's Square with a Local Guide. Enjoy a drive along the iconic landmarks of the city: the Tiber River, the Caius Cestius Pyramid, the Aurelian Walls and the Caracalla Baths. Complete the experience with a walk back in time from the Circus Maximus to the Arch of Constantine and to the fascinating Colosseum, symbol of the Roman Empire. Don 't miss out on the opportunity to visit the treasures of the Vatican museum and the Sistine Chapel on our optional excursion. (B)

Day 3:
ROME-PISA-FLORENCE. Vistas of rolling hills, cypress trees, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages form the backdrop as you journey into the heart of Tuscany. Stop in Pisa to enjoy a mini-train ride to the Square of Miracles and see the legendary Leaning Tower. Then, head east to magnificent Florence, “Cradle of the Renaissance.”
Today 's Distance: 284 mi/ 457 km (B)

Day 4:
FLORENCE. Today let 's focus on the wonders of Florence, starting with a guided walking tour featuring some of the city 's greatest attractions. See Piazza Santa Croce; world-famous Signoria Square; 13th-century Palazzo Vecchio with its collection of artistic masterpieces and incredible courtyards; Loggia dei Lanzi; the fantastic Duomo with Giotto 's Gothic Bell Tower and the Baptistry 's ornate bronze door known as the “Gate of Paradise.” (B,D)

Day 5:
FLORENCE-VERONA-VENICE AREA. Travel north and cross the Po River to fabled Verona, setting for Shakespeare 's Romeo & Juliet. Marvel at the ancient Roman Arena, built for gladiator fights but now a popular venue for festivals and concerts; shop in Via Mazzini, or just wander the cobblestone streets of the city center. Continue to the Venice area for two overnights.
Today 's Distance: 219 mi/ 352 km (B)

Day 6:
VENICE AREA. Venice is a place of unmatched beauty and a feast of fantastic sights. View the delightful crisscrossing canals, the gondolas, arched bridges, palaces, and piazzas. Your included orientation features a boat ride to St. Mark 's Square and a visit to a Venetian glassblowing workshop. You 'll have time to explore at leisure on your own, or join one of our optional excursions, including a ride on one of the most iconic boats in the world, the romantic gondola. Otherwise, just relax, sipping a cappuccino or the typical Venetian drink called spritz at one of the many bars or cafés. (B,D)

Day 7:
VENICE AREA. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)