Tour Details - Contrasts of Italy 2012

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! Relax after your journey or take a stroll through the city’s ancient streets. Join your companions and Travel Director this evening for a Welcome Reception. Later, an orientation drive will be the perfect introduction to this magical city.(Welcome Reception)

Your expert Local Guide gives a fascinating account of the Vatican’s history during your sightseeing tour. See Michelangelo’s frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and the vast interior of St. Peter’s Basilica. Your tour continues in ancient Rome. See the Forum and Circus Maximus, where chariot races were held. Visit the enormous Colosseum. There’s time afterwards to explore the city on your own, or simply relax and watch the world go by!(Buffet Breakfast)

Your day is free to see the sights of your choice. Consider taking a trip to the ancient Catacombs, or take an excursion to Tivoli to see the house and gardens of the Villa d’Este - a marvellous example of Renaissance architecture. This evening, why not make a wish and throw a coin in the Trevi fountain.(Buffet Breakfast)

Take the high-speed Frecciargento train on a comfortable journey (1 hour 35 minutes) through scenic countryside to Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. Your expert Local Guide shows you a wealth of historical treasures during your walking tour of Florence including the Ponte Vecchio. Visit the Fine Arts Academy to see one of the most famous works of the Renaissance – Michelangelo’s statue of David. Finish at Piazza Signoria, featuring wonderful sculptures and palazzi.(Buffet Breakfast)

This morning enjoy views of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo before a short drive along the Arno Valley brings you to Pisa, a former maritime city. Explore the Square of Miracles and see the famous Leaning Tower and the marble Cathedral. See the Baptistery - the largest in Italy - and the cemetery, which is reputedly built on soil brought from the Holy Land. Afterwards, join your companions for a very special Highlight Lunch at a local restaurant. Relax this evening in Florence.(Buffet Breakfast / Highlight Lunch)

Spend the day on your own exploring the delights of this historic and picturesque city. As well as museums and galleries, there are beautiful gardens and wonderful palaces to discover, such as the Boboli and the Pitti Palace. There are many villages just outside the city with wonderful markets where you can buy all manner of local specialities. Or shop for the latest fashions in Florence’s elegant and sophisticated boutiques. This evening, consider an optional excursion to Chianti for dinner!(Buffet Breakfast)

All aboard the express train for Venice! Marvel at the scenery as you pass through the Apennine hills and across the Veneto plain. It takes just 2 hours and 3 minutes to reach Venice, its ornate Gothic and Renaissance palaces beautifully reflected in the Venetian lagoon. This evening, consider a gondola ride along enchanting canals - it’s the perfect introduction to this magical city!(Buffet Breakfast)

Savour the sights and sounds of this unique Byzantine city as you cruise to St. Mark’s Square by private launch. See the Bridge of Sighs, Palladian Churches, the Customs House, Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Basilica and Campanile as well as the Doge's Palace on your orientation of the city. Stroll across St. Mark’s Square to one of the island’s oldest glass-blowing workshops for a demostration of this ancient craft. Spend free time afterwards exploring on your own. Perhaps visit the Accademia or relax and experience ‘la dolce vita’ at a pavement cafe. You might like to cruise to an island in the lagoon for a delicious seafood lunch!(Buffet Breakfast)

Your expert Local Guide brings the city’s rich heritage to life. Cross the Rialto Bridge and visit the ancient fish market. Wander through the narrow streets and see the house of Marco Polo, and other interesting and beautiful works of art. See the sights of your choice afterwards, and celebrate this evening with your companions at a Farewell Dinner in a local restaurant.(Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)

Say ‘arrivederci’ to Italy and your fellow travellers as this fascinating holiday comes to an end. Transfers are available. Conditions apply.(Buffet Breakfast)