Great Italian Cities

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Welcome to Rome

   You're in for a bellissimo journey through the spectacular cities of Italy, which kicks off in the 'Eternal City' of Rome. Join your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a delightful dinner. Your introduction to la dolce vita begins with an orientation drive past Rome's most magnificent sights.

2. 2

   Explore Ancient Rome and the Vatican City

   This morning, join your Local Specialist for a visit to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. Explore the vast collection of the Vatican Museums and stand beneath Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica to view his renowned Pietà. Afterwards, cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome to explore the Colosseum. Learn how this monumental arena once echoed with the sounds of gladiator battles, public events and roaring crowds at the heart of Roman life.On some departures, access to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums may be restricted. You'll still enjoy the atmosphere of St. Peter's Square during your visit to the Vatican City, and if tickets are unavailable to the Vatican Museums, you'll instead explore the Capitoline Museums, home to iconic Roman art and archaeology.

3. 3

   Rome Your Way

   Enjoy a full free day to explore Rome your way, or consider an Optional Experience delving into the tragic history of Pompeii — the Roman city frozen in time by the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Your Local Specialist will bring its ancient story to life before you return to Rome, passing by the Abbey of Monte Cassino, a site of fierce fighting during the Second World War.

4. 4

   Admire Assisi and on to Florence

   Journey north through the rolling hills of Umbria to the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi. Here, your Local Specialist will share the story of this revered figure during a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, the final resting place of this famous saint and home to a wonderful series of frescoes by Giotto. Later, continue your journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Florence. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a Be My Guest experience, set against the backdrop of picture-perfect olive groves and vineyards.

5. 5

   Discover Renaissance Florence

   Enjoy a leisurely encounter with the artistic and architectural marvels of Florence during your walking tour with a Local Specialist. Visit the striking Piazza della Signoria with its impressive sculptures and palazzi. Amble through the charming cobblestone lanes to the multi-coloured marble Duomo and Baptistery, before admiring the scenic view of the Ponte Vecchio straddling the Arno River. Spend the rest of the afternoon sauntering through Florence's historic centre, shopping for the high-quality leather the city is famous, or admiring the artistic contribution of the Medici at every turn.

6. 6

   Uncover Pisa’s Treasures

   After a morning at leisure in Florence, cross the fertile Arno Valley to Pisa and join a Local Specialist to visit the Square of Miracles, home to the incredible Leaning Tower and the iconic marble cathedral. See the ornate Baptistery and the Camposanto, a monumental cemetery built on sacred soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades.

7. 7

   Journey to Bologna and Venice

   Travel north, through the Apennines, to the medieval city of Bologna, perhaps best known for the delicious pasta sauce that bears its name. Your sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist includes views of the Kissing Towers, which lean towards each other, seemingly poised to embrace. Then it's off to the romantic island city of Venice with its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Spend time at leisure gliding along its enchanting canals in a gondola or wander through the city's labyrinthine lanes, over bridges and into quiet campi.

8. 8

   Cruise Venice’s Canals

   Savour the iconic and unexpected highlights of Venice as you cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square to admire the Bridge of Sighs, Palladian churches, Customs House, St. Mark's Basilica and the ornate Doge's Palace. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to one of the city’s last remaining studios where you’ll gain insights into the delicate Venetian art of glassblowing. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure admiring this city on water or consider an Optional Experience to the island of Burano where colourful fishermen’s homes line the canals.

9. 9

   Experience Daily Life in Venice

   Meet a passionate lagoon conservationist for an engaging discussion on safeguarding environmental conditions in Venice during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Sites made famous in poetry, song and prose are explored today when you join a Local Specialist for a walking tour along the canals to the famous Rialto Bridge, where all the flavours of Italy come to life at a centuries-old food market. Amble through the narrow calli of Venice and admire the beautiful architecture. Walk over the Rialto Bridge before spending the rest of the day discovering the sights of your choice. Your love affair with Italy's great Italian cities comes to an end this evening as you enjoy dinner.

10. 10

    Farewell Venice

    For now, it's time to say a fond arrivederci to Italy and newfound friends who have shared in the memorable sights, sounds and flavours.

Accommodation

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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