Best of Italy – Classic Group, Summer

The day is devoted to The Eternal City. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth visit to the Vatican Museums, full of priceless art treasures collected by the Popes. Visit the Sistine Chapel, where Popes are elected, to admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling, and see the beautiful exterior of St. Peter's Basilica. Cross the Tiber river to enjoy ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus. Admire the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine and discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum on a guided visit. As you stroll with your Local Expert, imagine the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators around the arena. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon and the stunning piazzas and fountains of Rome.

Continue this guided tour of Italy with a drive to the picturesque Chianti Hills and the historic city of Florence. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to discover the secrets of traditional Florentine leatherwork, gaining insight into the techniques that have been passed down through generations. Get up close and personal with unique pieces to appreciate the skill of local craftspersons keeping important traditions alive. Additionally, you will witness a fascinating gold demonstration, showcasing local artistry and craftsmanship. This evening, indulge in a delicious meal at a local restaurant, savouring the authentic flavours of Florentine cuisine.

Explore Florence with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. After, continue on foot to admire the multicoloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. Continue into the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune and Hercules and Cacus along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Alternatively, take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce to enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local café, where you will be in the perfect spot to admire the basilica, indulge in people-watching the elegant Florentines and pamper yourself shopping for luxury goods like gold and leather. In the afternoon, perhaps journey to view the medieval towers of San Gimignano's historic centre.

Journey to the coastal town of Pisa and see the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles, as well as the baptistery and colonnaded bell tower behind the cathedral. Relax and enjoy the scenery as you cross the spectacular Apennine Mountains, passing through the Emilia-Romagna region, one of Europe's most intensely farmed and fertile plains. Continue through the marshes of the Venetian Lagoon before crossing the causeway into the enchanting floating city of Venice. As evening falls, day-trippers leave the city to return to the mainland, allowing you to appreciate the peace and tranquillity of Venice from your centrally located hotel. Tonight, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savouring the unique flavours of Venetian cuisine.

Cruise by private boat on a journey of discovery past churches and palaces reflecting the rich architectural history of Venice from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Marvel at the intricate façades and learn about the stories behind these historical buildings. Arrive close to St Mark's Square and stroll along the waterfront, passing the iconic Bridge of Sighs and the majestic Doge's Palace. It was from here that the infamous Casanova made his daring escape. Turn the corner into St Mark's Square and be captivated by the grandeur of the basilica. Afterwards, board a traditional gondola for a serenade along the romantic canals. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and witness the artistry of expert glassblowers as they create beautiful, handcrafted glass pieces, preserving centuries-old techniques and traditions.

Continue your 11 days in Italy with a journey to the peaceful town of Assisi, nestled on the slopes of Mount Subasio and renowned for its medieval churches, vibrant frescoes and sun-dappled courtyards. In the valley, see the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, revered as the place of St. Francis’ passing. Then ascend to the upper town to meet your Local Expert. Step inside the monumental Basilica of St. Francis, a 13th-century marvel whose frescoes by Giotto marked a turning point in European art. Enjoy free time to soak up the serenity of Assisi. You might choose to stroll along Via San Francesco, lined with quaint stone buildings offering artisan foods, devotional keepsakes and locally crafted wares.

Travel south, passing Cassino, the site of a fierce and pivotal battle during World War II. Continue your journey along the spectacular clifftop road, offering breathtaking views, to reach the resort of the Sorrento coast. This charming area overlooks the Bay of Naples and provides stunning vistas of Mount Vesuvius. After checking in to your hotel, spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the beautiful surroundings or relaxing in the comfort of your accommodations.

Cross the Bay of Naples to reach the beautiful Isle of Capri, a rock rising sheer from the Mediterranean! For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Emperor Tiberius to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri town. A Local Expert joins you for an exploration of the narrow alleyways. Browse in deluxe boutiques and wonder at the views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento, where you are at leisure for the rest of the day. Perhaps head to Positano for an exploration of the colourful Amalfi Coast?

Continue to Pompeii, the opulent Roman town that was preserved by layers of ash from the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. A walk with your Local Expert through the cobbled streets and extensive excavations reveals the daily life of ancient Roman civilisation. Visit the Forum and peer into shops and patrician villas, decorated with colourful wall paintings. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Vesuvius National Park and visit Casa Barone. This small family-run farm on the slopes of the volcano is one of the world’s only producers of Piennolo tomatoes, an endangered fruit that only thrives in the fertile volcanic soil. Each harvest is sustainably farmed and cared for by the extended Barone family, who all work here. Be sure to savour the unique flavours of this rare tomato during a truly unique Farm-to-Table lunch. Your journey continues to Rome. In the evening, enjoy an elegant four-course dinner with local wine at a Roman restaurant. As you dine, enjoy a private performance of popular songs and arias from some of Italy's best-loved operas.

Bid farewell to the glories of Italy, savouring the memories of its enchanting cities, historic landmarks and stunning landscapes. Italy's unique allure will linger in your heart long after you leave.