Home to ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, gelato, and pizza, Italy is an enchanting destination for all ages. Discover the country’s top highlights on a journey from Venice through the heart of Tuscany to Rome. Explore fresco-adorned churches and Renaissance palaces, climb medieval towers, and get immersed in Italian culture with art classes and cooking lessons.

Day 1 Venice
Arrive today in time to meet your fellow travelers at a welcome gathering this evening. Your arrival transfer is included.

Day 2 Venice
Take a walking tour of Venice, discovering winding lanes, marble palaces, and cobblestoned squares aflutter with pigeons. Then visit a glass-blowing workshop to watch a master craftsman at work. We’ll learn about the ancient technique of glass production while watching the creation of a unique piece. Afterwards, opt to hop aboard the city’s preferred mode of transportation: the gondola. This afternoon, try your hand at the centuries-old art of Venetian mask making. Watch how the mask mold is constructed and wrapped with papier-mâché, then use the tools of the trade to create your very own masterpiece.

Day 3 Venice to Florence
Catch a train to Florence—celebrated as the birthplace of the Renaissance. In Piazza della Repubblica—site of the city’s forum during ancient Roman times—take a spin on an antique wooden carousel, riding atop galloping horses and gilded carriages. Channel your inner inventor with a visit to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, dedicated to the famed Italian artist and engineer. Explore da Vinci’s creativity and genius as you interact with an astonishing array of machines, brought to life from drawings the artist created hundreds of years ago. Cap off the day with a gelato treat!

Day 4 Florence
Begin the morning with a walking tour of Florence’s historic center, an enchanting warren of stone lanes bursting with treasures. Later, take part in a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn how to make fresh pasta—then enjoy it for dinner!

Day 5 Florence
Today is free to explore on your own or take part in optional activities. Choose to join our guide for an excursion by train to the city of Pisa and see just how far the tower leans. Those spending the day in Florence can visit the city’s enormous, red-tiled cathedral—known as the Duomo—which took more than 140 years to complete; or marvel at Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery; experience Medici court life at the Palazzo Vecchio; and more.

Day 6 Florence/Rome
Ride the rails to Rome, home to one of history’s greatest empires. Enjoy a walking tour of Piazza del Popolo—which features twin churches and a towering obelisk—and take in the sunset from the Spanish Steps.

Day 7 Rome
Step inside the ancient Colosseum, where gladiatorial contests took place before cheering crowds and fierce animals were once set loose. Then head to a local gladiator school and learn how to become a Roman warrior! Delve into gladiatorial history and examine authentic artifacts including shields, swords, and armor. With the guidance of an instructor, venture into an arena to safely train and fight other new centurions—and feel the thrill of handling your own wooden sword and shield. Later, join an optional walk to St. Peter’s Square or choose to visit the Vatican or the Roman Forum. This evening, gather for a festive pizza dinner to celebrate our Italian adventure.

Day 8 Rome
Depart at any time.