Ciao and Welcome to Rome!
Your adventure begins in the Eternal City! After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax before the excitement kicks off. This evening, join Beckett Graham and Susan Vollenweider for a lively cocktail party where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and toast to the incredible journey ahead. Then, it’s time to experience the magic of Rome from a new perspective—aboard a private double-decker sightseeing bus, charted exclusively for our group. Sit back, enjoy the views, and let the adventure begin!

We dive straight into Rome’s rich history with The Women of Ancient Rome walking tour. Our journey begins at the iconic Colosseum, where our expert guides lead us through the legendary arena, including an exclusive visit to the arena floor. From there, we explore the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient political and social life, before concluding at the breathtaking Palatine Hill. The rest of the day is yours to uncover more of the Eternal City—perhaps by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck?

Today is all about unforgettable experiences!  Start the day with an exclusive private tour of the Vatican Museums, where we’ll explore this world-renowned treasure before the crowds arrive. Marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel, then enjoy a delightful breakfast in the serene Pinecone Courtyard at the Vatican.

After soaking in the wonders of the morning, we visit St. Peter’s Basilica for a self-guided tour of the largest church in Christendom. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! We’ll board our private motor coach for a journey to Ostia Antica, a fascinating ancient town steeped in history. Our guided tour will bring its vibrant past to life as we explore its remarkably preserved ruins.

Upon returning to Rome, the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to dine al fresco, wander the cobblestone streets, or simply relax, the Eternal City awaits! 

Today, we leave behind the hustle and bustle of Rome and embrace the charm of Tuscany.  Our journey begins as we board our private motor coach and head to the heart of this enchanting region: Siena. This beautifully preserved medieval town is yours to explore for the afternoon. Enjoy lunch in the iconic Piazza del Campo, stroll through its winding, historic streets, or marvel at the stunning Siena Cathedral—it’s your time to soak in the magic.

When we reconvene, we’re off to the crown jewel of Tuscany: Florence. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, and the evening is yours to discover the historic center at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander along the Arno, enjoy gelato under the Duomo, or simply savor the Florentine atmosphere, the night is yours to make unforgettable memories. 

Today, we celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped Florence’s history. 🌟 Join our expert guide for a fascinating walking tour through this incredible city, where you’ll uncover the stories of its most iconic women. After the tour, enjoy some free time to wander Florence’s enchanting streets and, of course, indulge in your daily gelato—because no visit to Florence is complete without it! 

This evening, we come together for an unforgettable dinner experience. Just outside the city, we’ll arrive at a stunning 13th-century castle reserved exclusively for our group. Surrounded by its storied walls, we’ll savor a traditional Tuscan feast, creating memories as rich as the history that surrounds us. 

Today, we honor one of the most celebrated female artists of the Renaissance, Artemisia Gentileschi. Our day begins with an exclusive tour of the Uffizi Gallery, where we’ll focus on her groundbreaking work and explore the masterpieces of her contemporaries and inspirations. Our guide will bring Artemisia’s art to life, giving you a deeper understanding of her immense talent and impact.

Next, we continue our journey to the grand Pitti Palace, home of the legendary Medici family. We’ll tour the lavish state rooms and take in the beauty of the stunning Boboli Gardens, a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance landscaping.

The rest of the day is yours to explore Florence at your own pace. With so much shopping to be done, why not pick up a beautiful leather item or a golden souvenir to remember this incredible city? Florence’s charming boutiques and markets are waiting for you! 

Italy and delicious cuisine go hand in hand, and today we immerse ourselves in the culinary heart of it all—the Emilia-Romagna region!

Our day begins with a fascinating tour of a parmesan factory, where we’ll learn the secrets behind crafting the undisputed “King of Cheeses.” But the foodie adventure doesn’t stop there! Next, we visit a balsamic vinegar producer to discover the artistry and tradition behind this flavorful treasure, right at the source.

To top it all off, we’ll enjoy a mouthwatering lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients that showcase the region’s incredible flavors. Get ready for a day filled with unforgettable tastes and stories! 

After a delightful lunch, we make our way to one of Italy’s most enchanting cities—Venice. 🌟 Upon arrival, we check into our hotel, and then the rest of the day is yours to explore this magical city on foot. Wander through its winding canals, cross iconic bridges, and get lost in the charm of Venice’s unique beauty. 

Our Venetian adventure begins in the heart of the city—Piazza San Marco.  We’ll marvel at the stunning golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica, soak in the opulent interior of the Doge’s Palace, and stand in the same rooms where Austria’s Empress Sisi once walked at the Correr Museum.

After immersing ourselves in the city’s rich history, we’ll gather for a relaxing afternoon tea at the legendary Caffè Florian, where we can exchange stories and enjoy the timeless ambiance.

The evening is yours to explore Venice at your own pace—whether it’s wandering through its charming streets or discovering hidden gems tucked away along the canals. Your Venetian adventure awaits! 

As our time in Italy comes to a close, we spend our final day soaking in the beauty of Venice. Our adventure begins on the island of Murano, world-renowned for its glassmaking tradition. We’ll visit a glass factory where you’ll witness master artisans at work, creating intricate masterpieces right before your eyes. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore the charming island before we return to Venice.

In the evening, we come together for one last unforgettable experience. We’ll gather at a cozy Venetian taverna for a traditional meal, raising our glasses to the memories we’ve made and saying our final Ciao to this magical journey. 

Enjoy one last Italian breakfast before checking out of the hotel and making your way to the airport full of the memories of our week together. Safe travels!