Academy of the Holy Cross - Phyllis Ouellette
Florence
June 18 – June 21
Upon your arrival into Rome, you will depart for Florence to begin your Italian adventure. After hotel check-in, this evening is yours to enjoy the ambience of this beautiful city with your tour leader after dinner. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence will thrill you with its treasures. On June 19, you will begin the day enjoying a guided tour* of this historic city and the renowned Academia, home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece “David” followed by afternoon sightseeing to visit the Uffizi Gallery and possibly the Boboli Gardens. Other highlights include shopping in the famed straw market and open-air market or strolling across the Ponte Vecchio to see the gold and silver shops. The following day is dedicated to leisurely exploring the fantastic sites this city has to offer. A visit to Santa Croce, Santa Maria Novella, the Duomo, and Baptistery are not to be missed! On June 21, bid farewell to Florence as you transfer to Rome. A visit to Assisi will be enjoyed en route. Upon arriving in Rome that evening, you will enjoy dinner and local sightseeing with your tour director.
Rome and Pompeii
June 22 – June 26
Known as the “Eternal City” and capital of Italy, Rome was built on seven hills and is riddled with layers of history, one civilization built on top of another. Twentieth century Rome is a breathtaking mixture of ruins and monuments, fantastic fountains, beautiful piazzas and innumerable world-class museums. On June 22, you will begin with a guided city tour* visiting such sights as the Coliseum (free to those who submit their application and deposit by the November 15 deadline) and Roman Forum. Later this afternoon, you may wish to visit such sites as the Capitoline Museum, San Pietro in Vincoli, Castel Sant’Angelo, the Temple of Minerva, or many other exciting and wonderful places. The following morning you will visit Vatican City for a guided tour* of the Vatican Museums, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the renowned Sistine Chapel. The afternoon will be dedicated to exploring other highlights of Rome, such as the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps among others. On June 24, you will depart Rome for a full day excursion* to the city of Pompeii and its’ archaeological treasures. En route to this historic city you will visit the Naples Archaeological Museum. Your last day in Rome will take you along the Via Appia Antica to the magnificent Catacombs. Later this afternoon, you will have time for some last minute shopping as well as a gelato break before your last evening in Rome. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this charming city! On June 26, you will bid farewell to the charm of Italy and return home, taking with you fond memories of your incredible journey.