Day 1, arrive to Rome, Wednesday
Arriving at Rome's airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure until you gather for a Welcome Dinner with your Tour Director and traveling companions. (D)
Day 2, in Rome, Thursday
This morning, we visit the Colosseum, a symbol of Rome. After our visit, we continue to see the splendid Arch of Constantine, climb the ancient Palatino Hill, overlook Circus Maximus and the Imperial Palace; and stop on the legendary Via Sacra or "Sacred way". In the afternoon we have time at leisure for more discoveries and activities on your own or join an optional tour of the Grand Piazzas & food tour. (B)
Day 3, in Rome, Friday
Today we visit the Vatican Museums, located within that city's boundaries. We see the works of Raphael & Michelangelo and admire the Sistine chapel's magnificent frescoes. We continue to St. Peter's Square where some of the most important Papal ceremonies take place. In the afternoon you might want to visit some of the chic shops, galleries, and museums; do some more sightseeing on your own or relax in a sidewalk cafe with a glass of fine Italian wine, some refreshing gelato, or a hearty dish of pasta. (B)
Day 4, Rome to Assisi and Florence, Saturday
Travel through the stunning panorama of Tuscany with its iconic landscapes as you make your way to Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis. Here you will take a walking tour to see the main square and visit the impressive Basilica of St. Francis. Continue to Florence for dinner and an evening at leisure. (B, D)
Day 5, in Florence, Sunday
Our morning city tour begins at the majestic Piazza del Duomo to see the Cathedral crowned by Brunelleschi's awe-inspiring Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Baptistery with Ghiberti's splendid bronze "Gates of Paradise." Then, we visit the Academy of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo's David is displayed. The tour ends at the Piazzale Michelangelo with a spectacular view over Florence. The remainder of the day is free to savor the Renaissance splendor of the Tuscan capital on your own or take an optional tour Visit of San Gimignano with wine tasting. (B)
Day 6, from Florence to Ferrara and on to Venice, Monday
Drive to Pisa where you'll view the famous Piazza del Miracoli with its Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Duomo. Continue to Ferrara a renaissance gem in the Emilia-Romagna region, standing on the banks of the Po River. After an orientation tour of Ferrara, we continue to Venice for dinner and a free evening. (B, D)
Day 7, in Venice, Tuesday
We begin our exploration of Venice at St. Mark's Square with a walking tour which includes visits to the St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. We take in the amazing views of the Bell Tower and the Bridge of Sighs. We also take a boat ride to Murano Island, famous for its artistic glassware. Visit a glassblowing factory, where you will watch a demonstration of traditional Venetian glassblowing by master craftsmen. The balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy Venice on your own or join an optional Gondola serenade with Aperol spritz Venetian style drink. (B)
Day 8, from Venice to Opatija (Croatia), Wednesday
Drive to the seaside town of Opatija. A gem on Croatia's Adriatic coast, nestled along the striking Gulf of Kvarner. Afternoon is at leisure to explore the town on your own. Perhaps take a stroll along the "Lungo Mare" seaside and enjoy beautiful views of the Gulf, sheltered by soaring mountains. Enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers (B, D)
Day 9, in Opatija (Croatia), Thursday
Enjoy a full day at leisure in the seaside town of Opatija, with its rich history, picturesque surroundings and once a gathering spot for the Austro-Hungarian nobility. Alternatively, join the optional tour to the lstrian Peninsula that begins in Pula, a strategic port since the times of the ancient Romans. Afterwards, the tour continues to the resort town of Rovinj. Tonight, return to Opatija and explore the charming town with its wealth of fine seafood restaurants (B)
Day 10, from Opatija to Split, Friday
Depart today for a drive along spectacular Adriatic coast to Split. Comfortable stop on the way for a delicious lunch included. Continue traveling passing by old fishing villages and new resorts, to the city of Split. Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour featuring the historic inner city, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Finally, see the remnants of Split's Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral. The reminder of the day is at leisure. (B, L)
Day 11, Split departure (Croatia), Saturday
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight or continue with Adriatic Cruise.
