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12 Days — ROOF-TOP EXPERIENCES — MORNINGS WITH GUIDES, AFTERNOONS AT LEISURE

Italy's Great Cities

12 Days: LAKE COMO TO ROME
AUTHENTIC ITALY IN OUR SMALL GROUP TOUR UP TO 16 GUESTS
Handpicked Hotels. No Big Buses.
No Long Lines.
A Perfect Blend of Sights,
Experiences and Leisure.  


Deluxe from $8,779 — Classic from $6,779

Our 12-Day Adventure: Lake Como to Rome — 

Meet Italy's Great Cities: Lake Como to Rome - A Bella Beginning with 2 Beautiful Days in the Tuscan Countryside
See Full ItinerarySEE ITINERARY | DATES & PRICES | FAQs | MAKE A RESERVATION

Now Journey's Deluxe Approach to Italy is unique and features:

• Included Meet & Greet Transfer direct to Bellagio
• Hand-Picked select Deluxe 4+ to 5 Star Hotels
• No annoying Up-Selling while on tour
• No Big Buses or Groups, No Long Lines
All-included Dinners with unlimited Premium Beverages; 18 Meals: 11 Breakfasts, 6 Journey Style Dinners / Apericena, 1 Lunch (Deluxe)
• PRIVILEGED ACCESS: Skip-the-Long-Line Admissions with special access
• Local Italian Expert Guides and Now Journey Tour Captain
• LAUNDRY SERVICE: Journey's Complimentary Mid-Tour Laundry Service
• On Tour Transportation: Fast Train Milan/Venice/Florence, Comfy micro-coach/Mercedes Vans to Rome
• SMALL GROUP BENEFITS: Small group up to 16 guests of like-minded travelers
• No Hidden Costs: Fees, taxes and gratuities excluding the Tour Captain

 


Our Complete Day-by-Day Itinerary:

Our complete itinerary for your consideration: Our Journey begins in Bellagio on beautiful Lake Como. The Journey immerses you in Venice and Florence with 2 wonderful days in the Tuscan countryside; then the Empire of Rome amazes before our spectacular finalé in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.


Chapter 1: We Begin in Bellagio

The Pearl of Lake Como —  2 Days, 2 Nights — Ah! Venice!



DAY 1: WELCOME TO BELLA LAKE COMO

The Journey begins on beautiful Lake Como. We can't wait to welcome you to the villages of the lake and the stunning view of the lake to begin your Journey. Whether you arrive from Milan (with a pre-tour hotel room) or if you've simply arrived today, the Classic Great Cities of Italy Journey will absolutely delight you.Venice Canal

Orientation Walk IconThe Now Journey Style of Travel: Enjoy the Discovery Walk on Arrival Day
Our Discovery Walk is a hallmark of the Now Journey style of traveling when exploring new destinations —  a brief orientation walk with your Now Journey Tour Captain (not to be confused with our immersive Sightseeing Tour that occurs the next day).

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Lake Como Dinner

Journey dinners are more like dining "events" featuring all inclusive premium beverages and ordering from the menu. Tonight, we introduce you to Lake Como's very own Chef Luigi to experience the magic of his culinary arts.

ABOUT ITALIAN CUISINE
Journey Cuisine is authentically Italian: Family-owned restaurants farm to table. Journey’s approach to dining is unique in the travel world (just like the regions of Italy). We include Premium Beverages (wine, soda and cocktails) and you choose your dinner from the menu. The Italian chefs and families are proud of their delicious dishes which hail from each of the regions in which Journey travels. From Lombardia and beautiful Lake Como to the Veneto region with Venice all the way through to the Amalfi Coast and Campania, you will enjoy a variety of dishes featuring pasta, seafood combined plates, vegetable inspired contorni and of course Tuscan inspired dishes. While in Italy we will enjoy locally grown produce where the concept of nostrale, or home-grown, is so evident.


Journey Hotels IconAccommodation on Lake Como, 2 Nights with breakfast

Our Deluxe Hotel Collection:
Hotel Villa Belvedere, Grand Villa Serbelloni, Grand Hotel Caddenabia , Domus Bellagio or Similar

Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties and feature Classic category rooms —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade room category.
Hotel assignments are made closer to tour departure.
Our Classic Hotel Collection:
Hotel Metropole, Hotel Centrale or Similar

Our Classic Package includes 3 and 4 Star properties with private bathrooms, and continental breakfast.

DAY 2: EXPLORING LAKE COMO

Journey Dinners IconBreakfast included daily

 

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Lago di Como

Today, enjoy a walk through Bellagio and enjoy the sites and learn a bit about the history of the town and the lake with your Tour Captain; Then meet our "other Captain," Captain Luca on our private boat tour of the lake to view the magnificent villas. Lago di Como is the third largest lake in Italy. At over 1320 feet deep it is one of the deepest lakes in Europe. The lake's name comes from the town of Como. On a clear day the spectacular Alps are visible across the lake.

Our special sightseeing experience on beautiful Lake Como Includes:

  • Private Boating Adventure: Board our private "Venetian Style" boat as we explore the amazing Lake Como —  comprised of two lakes, Lago di Como and Lago di Lecco —  we experience the perspectives of the lake at the foot of the pre-Alps and the many beautiful villas along its banks.
  • Villa Carlotta: A beautifully architectural treasure along with the impressive flora of its gardens, Villa Carlotta is a treasure to behold.
  • Walking Delights: Learn about the history of the Lake and how it provided a key role in the development of Italy.

Walking on Your Journey
We enjoy walking the streets and stairs of Italy so get ready for exploring the cities and villages of Italy by foot. Plan to be on your feet for up to three (3) hours standing and walking up-and-down stairs, cobblestone streets, and hopping on-and-off our private (and sometimes public) transportation in all weather conditions (rain, sun, hot and cold weather). Our pace is unhurried but you must be physically capable of walking.

Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and the evening at your leisure.

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Chapter 2: Venice —  La Serenissima

Venetian Magic for 2 Days, 2 Nights — Ah! Venice!

 

DAY 3: WELCOME TO BEAUTIFUL VENICEVenice Canal

Ah! Venice!
This morning we will say "Arrivederci" to Lake Como as we will make our way to Milano Centrale Train Station for onward journey on the fast-train to the port city of Venice. On some departures you will be whisked along via our Micro-coach or Sedan. It's about a 2.5 hour trip to Venice and the coast. 

Upon arrival we are transported via private water taxi to our hotel on San Marco along with your fellow travelers and your Journey Tour Captain. Check-in, drop carry-ons off (remember, your luggage is portaged and you manage your carry-ons), and then relax until our Discovery Walk. 


Discovery WalkDiscovery Walk of the Heart of Venice and Isola San Marco

You will enjoy a get-to-know-Venice Discovery Walk — a hallmark of the Journey style of traveling and exploring new destinations hosted by your Journey Tour Captain. We will take in the beautiful sights of Piazza San Marco, the "Campanile" or clock tower, the Grand Canal and more.

Prosecco IconLeisure Time

Enjoy some leisure time before meeting tonight for a special 'Welcome to Venice' evening from one of our exclusive perspectives to see Venice.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Venice Dinner

We then make our way to our favorite restaurant in Venice where we will be delighted with cuisine from several regions throughout Italy including the Veneto, Lazio and Campania (all paired with delicious wines and premium beverages - and all included with Journey).

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Venice, 2 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal, Hotel Saturnia & International or Similar
Classic: Hotel Do Pozzi or Similar

DAY 4: EXPLORING VENICEVenice Canal

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Venice Secrets & Treasures

Venice's Secrets & Treasures is Journey's unique touring experience through this dramatic and historic port city. Today, learn of Venice's fascinating and colorful past, including everything from Casanova to Napoleon. Venice's character springs to life as we make our way through her nooks and crannies and mysterious alley ways.

Journey's professional local guide provides expert commentary as we enter the fascinating and colorful Basilica San Marco (St. Mark's Basilica). Then we go back in time with our visit to the Doge's Palace, the Old Prison (and yes, you will learn about the gentleman Casanova), and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

More included Secrets & Treasures from our unique Walking Tour of historic Venice:

  • The Doge's Palace: Skip-the-Line Entrance to the Doge's Palace (meaning Duke or Governor's Palace), the seat of the Republic of Venice's historic power.
  • Venice's Famous Old Prison: The Prisons of Venice: Found inside the Doge's Palace, is "The Leads," the prison portion of the Doges Palace, and you will learn about one occupant by the name of Casanova who, in 1756 at the age of 30, became one of the most famous occupants.
  • Bridge of Sighs: The bridge made famous for its window and last view of blue sky and freedom as prisoners are marched to their sentence.
  • Basilica San Marco: Enjoy the beautiful mosaics and how they reflect and dance in the light. Your Tour Captain "paints the picture" of the history and opulence that is the Basilica San Marco prior to entering. Once inside, enjoy 'silence' as you observe its beauty encased in Byzantine architecture.
  • Piazza San Marco: and our "Secret Treasures of Venice:"
  • Walking Delights: Learn about the Clock Tower (Campanile), Caffé Florian, Napoleon and the Winged Lion
  • Enjoy included admission/entrance to Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale and Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana at your leisure.

Gondola IconSpecial Adventure: Venetian Gondola Experience

Later today, just before sunset enjoy our included Gondola ride through the canals of Venice with our professional musicians to make the ambiance perfect. On occasion inclement weather will prevent the gondola ride. In this scenario an alternate activity will be substituted later in the tour.

Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Journey is Different: Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner after the Gondola ride, and they can also help you with dining reservations if you choose to explore lovely Venice on your own. 

Chapter 3: Florence

Birthplace of the Renaissance – 2 Days, 2 Nights

 

DAY 5: ONWARD TO FLORENCEFlorence Panorama

This morning enjoy a leisurely start with breakfast and then join your Journey Tour Captain as we transfer by boat to the Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station for the included Fast-train passage to Florence. Your bags are portaged separately so you can enjoy the ride.

We zip along the Italian countryside and arrive in Florence at the Santa Maria Novella Train Station where we deboard the train for our short walk to our hotels in the very heart of Florence.

After some time to freshen up, we begin our chapter in Florence.

Orientation Walk IconDiscovery Walk of Florence

On the Discovery Walk we will orient you to the very heart of historic Florence. In addition to seeing many of the major sites including Giotto's Campanile (Bell Tower) and the Baptistery, the Florence Cathedral, also known as the Duomo, we will enjoy entrance to Orsanmichele church and the church of Via Santa Margherita which was the parish of many Florentine families, such as Cerchi, Donati, Adimari and Portinari.


Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure until our welcome dinner tonight.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Florence Dinner: Tuscany's Dining Delights You Tonight!

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner in Florence with authentic Tuscan cuisine served by Fiorentini who love what they do. Florence welcomes us with a variety of regional culinary tastes, premium beverages, and ample portions of fine local wines from Toscana and Chianti.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Florence, 2 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Grand Hotel Cavour, Hotel Bernini Palace or Similar
Classic: Rosso 23 or Similar

DAY 6: EXPLORING FLORENCE

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Florence Secrets & Treasures

Journey's Florence Secrets & Treasures tour boasts a variety of fine sights to see including Santa Maria del Fiore, the Baptistery's Bronze "Gate of Florence Journeyers enjoying the afternoon sun.
Paradise," Giotto's Bell Tower, Signoria Square, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, where Michelangelo's David is housed.

We will take our time walking through the Piazza della Repubblica, the famous Piazza Signoria with her old palace, Palazzo Vecchio, and make our way through the portico of the Uffizi complex before arriving at the Arno River and a visit to the "old bridge," or Ponte Vecchio. This was the only bridge in Florence to survive the World War II bombing raids.

Special Sightseeing Includes:

  • Galleria dell'Accademia: Skip-the-Line admission to experience Michelangelo's David in the Academy Gallery.
  • Galleria dell'Accademia: The first art school of Europe.
  • Our tour includes the historic city center which is a World Heritage site that comprises the Baptistery, Campanile, and the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore – also known as the Duomo. The 14th-century dome was created by Brunelleschi.
  • See the magnificent Gates of Paradise on the Baptistery, so called by Michelangelo. Our Local Guide will comment on these impressive doors to the Baptistery created by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Until the 19th century, most Catholic Florentines were baptized here. The Baptistery and Giotto's Campanile whose perspective we enjoy from ground level are all part of the Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiori complex.
  • Entrance and tour of Orsanmichele: This church was originally built as a grain market in 1337 by Francesco Talenti, Neri di Fioravante, and Benci di Cione. Then converted into a church between 1380 and 1404.
  • Walking Delights: We explore Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge), the only bridge to survive World War II bombing.

Following our Secrets & Treasures adventure the balance of the day is at your leisure.

Interested in checking out the leather market? What about a climb of the Duomo? We can arrange visits, admissions and more for you in advance. Consider a visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce (Basilica of the Holy Cross) or just explore at your leisure. This Basilica is the principal Franciscan church in Florence, Italy, and a minor basilica of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the burial place of some of the most illustrious Italians, such as Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Foscolo, Gentile, Rossini, and Marconi, thus it is known also as the Temple of the Italian Glories (Tempio dell'Itale Glorie).

Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Chapter 4: Under the Tuscan Sun

DAY 7: GOOD MORNING TUSCANYTuscan Hills

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Tuscan Glory

It's a great day to explore further into the Tuscan countryside.

Our first stop is the hilltop village of San Gimignano. One of San Gimignano's most impressive sights is the medieval skyline made up of 13 remaining towers dating back from the 11th century. San Gimignano rises on a hill dominating the Elsa Valley. The town increased in wealth and developed greatly during the Middle Ages thanks to the "Via Francigena", the trading and pilgrim's route that crossed it. Once in San Gimignano, we enjoy free time to explore the city of towers. San Gimignano also has several distractions for shopping - so dig in and enjoy!

 We'll toast our arrival into the countryside of Tuscany with a unique perspective and our first taste of Vernaccia, a white wine that hails from San Gimignano.

Exclusive IconJourney Exclusive: Winery Experience

Enjoy our in-depth experience at our winery estate in the heart of Tuscany - simply stunning,

We will enjoy a tour of the production facilities and cellars, followed by a delightful wine-tasting paired with perfect morsels for lunch. Buon Appetito!Vineyards in Tuscany

Our lunch palate-pleasing appetizers, including pecorino cheese, bruschetta, and other local farm-to-table delights. You'll get your fill of classic Chianti and Super Tuscan varieties along with delicate cuisine hand-made by the chef.

Special Sightseeing today Includes:

  • San Gimignano: Sightseeing and free time in the Tuscan hill town known for its towers.
  • Exclusive Winery: Admission, Tour and Wine Tasting at our Estate located in the heart of Tuscany. Beautiful Property with stunning views, delicious varieties paired with sumptuous delicacies. You won't want to leave.
  • Tuscany's Wine Road: Winding through the Tuscan hills, the wine road offers remarkable beauty, characterized by vineyards, wine cellars, distant rolling landscapes, and villages up in the hills.

To Cortona
Mid to late-afternoon we enjoy a leisurely drive to the delightful hill town of Cortona for our next chapter in the very heart of Tuscany. Your Journey Tour Captain checks you in and there is ample time to freshen up before meeting in the lobby tonight for a short walk to our special Apericena experience.

Discovery Walk IconDiscovery Walk: Cortona

On the Discovery Walk of Cortona we make our way to its very heart to learn about its fascinating past with Etruscans and Romans, as well as Hollywood. Your Journey Tour Captain welcomes you to the Tuscan countryside and tonight's special Italian experience. You will Learn about the plains of Trasimeno and of the amazing battle of the same name: The Roman-Carthaginian Battle. Soak up the afternoon sunshine as we slow down and enjoy a typical Tuscan evening.

Journey Dinners IconJourney Exclusive: Special Apericena in Cortona

Tonight you will join your Journey Tour Captain for a Journey exclusive welcome "aperitivo" called Apericena by the modern Italians. It's the perfect complement for your palate after a day of great cuisine and wine. Our dinner aperitivo provides a just-right, light meal finale to our beautiful day in the Tuscan countryside and in the magical ambiance of this delightful hill town.

Afterwards, enjoy the balance of the evening at your leisure.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Cortona, 2 Nights with breakfast

Deluxe: Villa Marsili, Monastero di Cortona Hotel & Spa, Hotel San Michele or Similar
Classic: Hotel Italia or Similar


DAY 8: EXPLORING CORTONA Cortona in Tuscany, Italy

Enjoy a full free day at your leisure in beautiful Cortona.

Many options are available from Cooking Classes to a day trip to Siena and more. Today, enjoy Tuscany at your leisure - perhaps it's a thorough exploration of delightful Cortona, a cooking class, horse-back riding, Vespa rental and much more.

Optional experiences to consider for Today:

Cooking Class from Cortona
—  Just outside of Cortona, in the company of an expert chef, participants learn how to make several courses including a dessert. It is a different experience where the participants learn to prepare a multiple-course meal and then partake in the sampling of the prepared dishes while enjoying the olive oils and wines of the region! -Duration 3-5 hours. $248 per person.

•  Horseback Riding Adventure
—  Commences at 9:30/10:00am or 2:00/3:00pm. $99 per person for first 2 hours, $37 per hour for each additional hour. Front desk of hotel will arrange round-trip taxi for you at guest expense. Options available for beginner or experienced riders.

• Walking Tour of Siena with Round-trip Transportation
—  Departs around 9:30am. $465 per person. The tour includes round-trip transfer from Cortona to Siena with a walking tour of Siena in the morning and some free time in the afternoon. Today's tour will walk you through the old Ghetto, the Tower District (Contrada della Torre), and through little alleys, and on to the Basilica dei Servi, from which point you can enjoy an amazing view of the old town. We will take in Orto dei Pecci; a pleasant and easily accessible garden, located just behind the main square: The serenity and tranquility of this green oasis, together with the view of the incredible Torre del Mangia will mesmerize you.

• Morning Walking Tour of Siena with Cooking Class in Afternoon
— Departs around 9:30am. $599 per person. Enjoy the morning tour (see description above) and then a special cooking class in the afternoon. Our driver then whisks you to a nearby villa where you will enjoy a tour of the vines, immersion in all things Wine, Balsamic, and Olive Oil followed by a cooking lesson. And, yes, you then enjoy the fruits of your labor. Our chef is capable and entertaining as you enjoy learning more about Tuscan cooking. We then return to the hotel in Cortona for a free evening.

•  Cortona and the Franciscan Monastery Le Celle
—  $190 per person. A classic private walking tour of Cortona comprises the Garibaldi Square with its magnificent panoramic view over the Valdichiana, the Church of St. Dominic built for the Dominicans with its medieval architecture and paintings by Luca Signorelli e Lorenzo di Niccolò, via Nazionale, the Republic Square with the Town Hall, the Church of St. Francis with its collection of objects owned to St. Francis of Assisi, Piazza Signorelli with Palazzo Casali and the Duomo. Then the tour continues by car outside the city walls of Cortona to the Franciscan Monastery of Le Celle, immersed in a forest and a place of an extraordinary beauty, calm and Franciscan spirituality.

•  Cortona Ancient Walls, Fortresses, Convents and Churches
—  $190 per person. This is a walking tour on steep slopes in the oldest part of Cortona leading up to the very top of the hill. For this reason is suitable for guests who enjoy walking (hiking) on slopes. The prize at the end is a fantastic view of Cortona and the valley below and the beauty of this less frequented and untouched part of the town. Above the center, half-way up to the hill of Cortona, are the Church San Francesco and beyond a cypress-lined courtyard, is the 15th century Chiesa di San Niccolò. The 15th-century church has a small porch with slender columns and the interior houses paintings by Luca Signorelli: the two-sided panel-painting, Descent from the Cross and Madonna Enthroned, and a fresco, Madonna with Saints. Passing by the little church San Cristoforo and Porta Montanina we will stop on the top to visit the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita, the town's patron saint. Finally walking down through the old part of town through the narrow alleyways of the quarter called Poggio San Marco you will admire also the beautiful 12 Via Crucis Stations with mosaics by the Futurist artist Gino Severin, a native of Cortona.

About Cortona
Cortona is a small but fascinating hill town in the province of Arezzo, Tuscany. It is situated on a commanding hill that overlooks Lake Trasimeno, known for the infamous rout of the Romans by Hannibal and the Carthaginians. Its cyclopean walls, still preserved in great part, are said to be 3000 years old. It was one of the twelve cities of Etruria.

Soak in the morning: enjoy a walk through the vineyards, or a hike up to the castle or a leisurely stroll through the piazza and streets.

Chapter 5: Rome: Heart of the Empire

Where All Roads Lead — 3 Days, 3 Nights

 

DAY 9: ONWARD TO ROMEPantheon in Rome, Italy

As we make our way to Rome, we find ourselves going back in time as our surroundings begin to slowly turn into the very center of ancient Rome.

We arrive at our hotels and check in. The locations of our hotels in Rome are within a minute or so walk of the incredible Pantheon.

We check-in, freshen up and then meet for our Discovery Walk.

Orientation Walk IconDiscovery Walk of Rome

You will meet the Journey Tour Captain for a walk through the very heart of Old Rome.

We begin our exploration of Rome beginning with an elephant and continue to immerse ourselves in over 2000 years of history of the 'Empire. We enter the amazing Pantheon and learn of its interesting history and continue our walk to soak up Piazza Navona, once a site where mock naval battles were held. We continue with our Discovery Walk as we pass through Campo de Fiori (field of flowers) - do you know the name of the figure whose likeness is crafted in the statue in this amazing campo? We walk by Largo di Torre Argentina and learn of Julius Caesar's fate. We will also see a village of modern Roman felines.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Rome Dinner: The Cuisine of Lazio Kicks Off the Dining Experience

Tonight you will join your Journey Tour Captain for a special welcome to Rome dinner complete with premium beverages and wine from the region of Lazio, Campania and Toscana.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Rome, 3 Nights with breakfast

DeluxeHotel d'Inghilterra, Palazzo Navona, Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon, or Similar
Classic: Hotel Navona, Albergo Abruzzi, or Similar

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DAY 10: EXPLORING THE VATICANVatican City, Rome, Italy

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Vatican City Privileged Access

This morning we will enter Vatican City with our Priority Early Morning Privileged Entry (1 hour ahead of regular Vatican visitors). Enjoy a visit of the Vatican museums to see the amazing tapestries, the Sistine Chapel and its iconic ceiling, and St. Peter's Basilica and Square as the majestic Vatican City comes to life.

After our experience is complete we will exit at St. Peter's Square where you see the multi-color uniformed Swiss Guard on display as they guard the Vatican and the expanse of the beautiful piazza.  

Journey's transports are waiting nearby when we're ready to head back to our hotels.

Special Sightseeing Includes:

  • St. Peter's Basilica and Square: Admission and Guided Tour to St. Peter's Basilica: By design, we enjoy early admission around 8:15 am to avoid the large cruise and tour groups that arrive later in the morning. Enjoy Skip-the-Line special access with Admission Included.
  • Sistine Chapel: Admission and Guided Tour of the Sistine Chapel: You will find inside the chapel The Last Judgment painting by Michelangelo, which he painted during the years 1535 to 1541. The work, designed on a grand scale, spans the entire wall behind the Sistine Chapel altar.
  • Vatican Museums: Admission and Guided Tour of the Vatican City Museums: The Museums boast some of the most impressive tapestries and other works of art and sculpture found in the world.

    *Please remember St. Peter's Basilica is an active church with celebrations and papal events that occur with short notice; Now Journey and our Guides cannot be held responsible for any cancellation or denial of entry due to last minute changes by the church leadership.

Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.


DAY 11: EXPLORING MODERN & IMPERIAL ROMERoman Forum, Italy

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Imperial Rome

This morning we will enjoy our walking tour of Rome. You will see ancient elements intertwined perfectly with present-day apartment buildings, and discover how the modern Romans have intertwined their vast history into present-day experience.

We're making our way to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the town center of the Roman Empire, for our special access, in-depth touring experience, complete with admissions. 

Special Sightseeing Includes:

  • Colosseo: Flavian's amphitheater known popularly as the Colosseum. Admission and Guided Tour of the Colosseum: Heart of The Empire. Enjoy Skip-the-Line entrance.
  • Foro Romano: Admission and Guided Tour of the Roman Forum ~ We walk through the archaeological dig for unique perspectives of the Old Town Center of Rome, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Caesar's Palace, Curia or the Senate House, Temple of the Vestal Virgins, and the Triumphal Arches.
  • Capitoline Hill: We ascend this amazingly sculptured and architecturally inspirational locale.
  • Walking Delights: Views of Trajan's Market, Palatine Hill, Caesar's Palace, Curia known as the Senate Building, the Vittorio Emanuele II National Monument, the Jewish Ghetto, and other historic landmarks. 

Journey Dinners IconFarewell to Rome Dinner: A Very Special Evening

Tonight join your Journey Tour Captain for our included 'Farewell to Rome' event.

Our days have been filled with new sights, tastes and discoveries - tonight enjoy reflecting on the incredible journey we've had together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends!

Tomorrow we will say, 'Arrivederci Roma!' but tonight we sing and make melody in the very heart of Rome. 

Day 12: DEPARTURE DAY: Arrivederci Italy!

Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure. Most of our guests seriously consider extending your vacation to the Amalfi Coast for the perfect ending —  it's 2 days and nights and includes Pompeii and treasures of the Amalfi Coast. See our optional extension below for proper temptation!

Does your Journey end in Rome?
We highly recommend the enchanted Amalfi Coast 2 day/2 night extension. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Extension to the Amalfi Coast & Sorrento Peninsula

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: DAY 12: NAPLES, POMPEII, THE SORRENTO PENINSULA & AMALFI COAST
Say goodbye to Rome as you join our extension to the amazing Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula. We make our way to Naples and the modern city of Pompei, where we find Pompeii (note the two i's) which is the ancient Roman city we will visit with our expert guide this morning.

Sightseeing IconToday's Adventure: Pompeii Ancient Site

On our tour of the World Heritage Site of Pompeii we find out the city was lost for nearly 1700 years before its rediscovery in 1748. Enjoy the commentary of our Local Guide as you learn of its colorful history and tragic end.

After our experience we make our way to Sorrento, our home to explore the amazing Amalfi Coast.

Journey Dinners IconWelcome to Sorrento Dinner

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner in Sorrento. The owner, Mario, and Chef Lena and their family welcome us to dinner tonight. Get ready for a wonderful evening of Sorrentina cuisine and hospitality.

Journey Hotels IconAccommodation in Sorrento, 2 Nights

Deluxe: Hotel Minerva Sorrento, Grand Hotel Capodimonte or Similar
Classic: Hotel Bristol or Similar

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: DAY 13: EXPLORING THE AMALFI COAST AT LEISUREAmalfi Coast, Italy

You will have today completely at your leisure to explore Sorrento or consider one of our optional adventures.

Highly Recommended: Option for the Day: Private Boat Tour to the Isle of Capri - $355 per person.
Enjoy our optional experience departing this morning and enjoy a boat trip to the Isle of Capri to enjoy free time on the Island. Then continue with our circumnavigation of the island, enjoy some time for swimming (towel service and refreshments onboard) and then we make our way back to Sorrento.

Your Journey Tour Captain will introduce Capri to you (and the other villa of Ana Capri). Occasionally, and when weather and seas permit, we are able to provide an experience that includes (in addition to round-trip service to and from Capri) time on the boat around the island with stops at various Grottos for viewing and swimming if you desire. We only "pass by" the Blue Grotto, we do not go inside the Blue Grotto as this usually takes the majority of the day.

Prosecco IconOur Special Journey Finalé

After returning to our hotel, enjoy some leisure time and then meet on the terrace for our special Apericena to celebrate our time together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends! Until our next Journey — Arrivederci!


OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Day 14: DEPARTURE DAY: Arrivederci Italy!

Breakfast is included this morning should you have time before your departure.

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