Italy's Great Cities

The adventure begins on the breathtaking shores of Lake Como. Whether arriving from a pre-tour stay in Milan or stepping directly into the Journey today, settle into the village, the lake views and the slower rhythm that makes Como such a graceful opening.

Meet your Tour Captain, begin to get oriented, and gather for a welcome dinner featuring Lake Como regional cuisine.

After breakfast, join your Tour Captain for a morning on Lake Como. Stroll through Bellagio, uncover local history, then see the lake by water, taking in villas, villages and the alpine setting from a private boat perspective when conditions allow.

The afternoon is intentionally open. Linger over lunch, enjoy the waterfront, return to the hotel or simply let the lake set the tone before the great cities begin.

Say arrivederci to Lake Como and travel toward Venice by fast train, micro-coach or sedan, depending on the departure. A private water taxi then carries you toward your San Marco-area hotel.

After time to settle in, enjoy a Discovery Walk through Venice's first impressions—Piazza San Marco, the Campanile, the Grand Canal and the maze of lanes and bridges—followed by a Venetian opening dinner with regional cooking, wine and premium beverages.

With an expert local guide, explore Venice's hidden corners and layered history at St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, the historic prisons and the Bridge of Sighs.

Later, enjoy an included gondola experience through quieter canals, accompanied by live musicians. Your Tour Captain can suggest a favorite local restaurant for an optional dinner afterward.

A private boat transfer brings you to Venezia Santa Lucia, where you board a comfortable high-speed train for Florence—a seamless transition from lagoon light to Renaissance stone.

On arrival, your Tour Captain leads a Discovery Walk past Giotto's Campanile, the Baptistery, the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The day closes with a hosted Tuscan dinner featuring regional specialties, local wines and premium beverages.

Florence comes alive through art, architecture and story. Enjoy skip-the-line entry to the Accademia to see Michelangelo's David, then continue through the historic center with your guide.

The afternoon is intentionally open for Santa Croce, the Duomo, the Uffizi, shopping, a private museum experience or a long café pause.

Rolling hills and cypress trees guide you into the Tuscan countryside. Begin in San Gimignano with a toast of Vernaccia, then settle into a family-run estate for a cellar visit, curated tasting and leisurely farm-to-table lunch.

Continue to Cortona, where your Tour Captain handles check-in before leading a gentle Discovery Walk into the historic center.

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Cortona. Make it as quiet or active as you wish: a long piazza morning, a vineyard walk, cooking class, horseback ride, Siena day trip, monastery visit or time exploring Cortona's upper streets and Etruscan layers.

Your Tour Captain will help shape the day around your style. The evening remains open for a final Cortona dinner.

Continue south to the Eternal City. After arrival and check-in near the Pantheon, your Tour Captain leads a Discovery Walk through Piazza Navona, Campo de' Fiori and Largo di Torre Argentina.

The evening gathers everyone for a hosted welcome dinner featuring the flavors of Lazio.

With privileged entry, explore the Vatican Museums, stand beneath Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, and continue into St. Peter's Basilica and Square. Your guide brings context to the art, ritual and living pageantry of Vatican City.

The afternoon and evening are open for Trastevere, Campo de' Fiori, a hidden wine bar or another Roman corner.

Set out through Rome's ancient heart, where ruins and modern life share the same streets. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum, then trace the shape of empire through the surrounding hills, arches and landmarks.

Tonight, join your Tour Captain for a special Farewell to Rome dinner before the Journey turns south.

Travel south from Rome to Pompeii. With an expert local guide, explore the ancient Roman city and hear the human story behind its dramatic history.

Continue to Sorrento for check-in, a Tour Captain-led Discovery Walk and a hosted dinner filled with local hospitality and coastal flavor.

Today is intentionally open for the coast. Stay in Sorrento, follow your Tour Captain's suggestions, or choose the highly recommended Isle of Capri experience when available.

In the evening, gather for a final walk and traditional farewell Apericena—a relaxed celebration of the discoveries and friendships gathered along the way.

Breakfast is included this morning if your departure timing allows. Guests ending in Sorrento may request an optional transfer to Naples Airport, and extra nights can often be arranged when available.