European Tours

12 Day Highlights of Italy

Featuring Rome, Isle of Capri, Sorrento, Assisi, Venice, Florence and Montecatini

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A 12 Day Italy Belissimo Tour
via Alitalia Airlines, Continental Airlines

DAY 01 – DEPART USA / NORTH AMERICA
Tour members will depart from their hometown to Rome. After take-off enroute to Rome, we will be served dinner. Overnight flight to Rome.

DAY 03 – ROME / MONTE CASSINO / POMPEII / ISLE OF CAPRI
After breakfast we drive into the province of the Campania where we view the Abbey of Monte Cassino, birthplace of the Benedictine order, and visit the World War II cemetery below. Then we delve into deepest history on a guided tour of the excavations at Pompeii, the Roman city petrified and preserved by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79. We continue to the Bay of Naples for our short sea-crossing to the Isle of Capri for our two-night stay. Dinner and overnight in Capri.

DAY 04 – CAPRI SIGHTSEEING
This morning sightseeing with our local guide includes the Caesar Augustus gardens with views of the Faraglioni rocks and Marina Piccola as well as the famous 'Piazzetta' – home to the international jet-set. At leisure explore the uniquely elegant boutiques, take a trip to see the translucent waters of the Blue Grotto or ascent to the dizzy heights of Anacapri. This evening your Tour Director will advise you on the best dining in this romantic spot! Overnight in Capri.

DAY 05 – ISLE OF CAPRI / SORRENTO / ASSISI
Across the azure waters of the Mediterranean we return to Sorrento where you have time to enjoy the holiday atmosphere of the Piazza Tasso while sipping a morning cappuccino. Before we leave we'll visit an inlaid wood factory to admire the fine local craftsmanship. Then we head into the peaceful hills of the Umbria and arrive in Assisi for dinner at our hotel. Overnight in Assisi.

DAY 06 – ASSISI / ADRIATIC COAST / VENICE
Orientation of the city, of the much-loved Saint Francis, shows us the imposing Basilica with its serene Giotto frescoes as well as the miraculous Church of St. Mary of the Angels. You'll feel at peace with the world when we leave this place, such is the effect of its enchanting setting. Later we enjoy a drive along the Adriatic coast to yet another awe-inspiring city – the unique water-bound city of Venice. This evening take a romantic gondola ride along the Grand canal to see the illuminated Renaissance palazzos! Dinner and overnight in Venice.

DAY 07 – VENICE
A private launch takes us on a canal cruise to St. Mark's Square this morning, where we view the Byzantine basilica, Bridge of Sighs and Doges' Palace. After witnessing a demonstration of the ancient art of Murano glass-blowing you are free to explore the many islands of the Venetian lagoon! Why not take a cruise to the island of Burano famous for its lace and excellent seafood? Overnight in Venice.

DAY 08 – VENICE / BRENTA CANAL / PADUA / MONTECATINI (TUSCAN HILLS)
We leave the islands this morning and re-join our coach to gaze on the beauty of the Palladian villas as we drive along the scenic Brenta Canal. Arriving in Padua, we view the Basilica of St. Anthony, before ascending into the Apennine Mountains and into the green and verdant hills of the Emilia Romagna and Tuscany. Descending into the valley of the river Arno we arrive in the elegant spa-resort of Montecatini. This evening try some of the reputed Tuscan cuisine and savor some of the excellent Chianti wines for which this area is celebrated. Dinner and overnight in Montecatini.

DAY 09 – MONTECATINI / FLORENCE
A short drive to nearby Florence where sightseeing on foot with our local guide highlights the Santa Croce Basilica, the Cathedral with its magnificent Baptistry and the Piazza Signoria. Florence is a shopper's paradise with leather fashions and bargains in 18 carat gold designer jewelry. For 'culture vultures' there is a plethora of museums and art galleries to visit. This evening is at leisure. Overnight in Florence.

DAY 10 – MONTECATINI (TUSCAN HILLS) / SIENA / ROME
A short morning drive bring us to Siena – famous for its Palio horse race. Admire the architecture of this frequently named 'perfect Renaissance town' from one of the open-air cafes on the fan-shaped Piazza del Campo. Perhaps pick up some bargains in local pottery before continuing on our journey past the hilltop towns of Orte and Orvieto and into the Latium – cradle of the Roman Civilization. We are back in Rome for the last two-nights of our tour.

DAY 11 – ROME
Included sightseeing today features views of the Forum and a visit to the Colosseum as well as St. Peter's in the Vatican. You may wish to further explore by taking an excursion along the Old Appian Way to visit the Catacombs where the early Christians were buried or admire Michelangelo's ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Whatever you do, don't forget to throw a coin in the Trevi fountain and thus ensure a safe return to the 'Eternal City'. Overnight in Rome.

DAY 12 – ROME / USA
Morning transfer to the airport at the end of your Italian escapade for your return flight homeward.

Tour Itinerary