
Rome, Vatican City, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, Naples, Florence, Pisa, Padua, Venice, Sirmione, Milan, Lugano, Lake Como
15 Days
All year
Day 1 – Arrival in Rome
Arrive in Rome and check into your centrally located hotel, just steps from some of the city’s most iconic monuments. In the evening, enjoy a welcome drink and orientation meeting. The soft golden light of the Eternal City, the aroma of fresh pasta, and the vibrant piazzas set the stage for your Italian adventure.
Day 2 – Imperial Rome: Colosseum, Forum & Beyond
Today begins with a panoramic drive around the city’s ancient landmarks: the Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill, and the Baths of Caracalla. Then, step into the mighty Colosseum, where gladiators once battled for glory. Walk along the Via Sacra through the Roman Forum, the very heart of the Empire, and envision the bustle of ancient Roman life.
Day 3 – The Vatican: Art, Faith & Grandeur
Begin your day with early access to the Vatican Museums. Gaze up at Michelangelo’s sublime frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, and stand beneath the colossal dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, where art and faith intertwine. Spend the afternoon exploring Rome at your leisure—perhaps a visit to Castel Sant’Angelo or a peaceful stroll along the Tiber.
Day 4 – From Rome to Sorrento via Pompeii
Journey south toward the ruins of Pompeii, the Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Vesuvius. Explore homes, shops, and public spaces preserved for millennia. Then continue to the cliffside town of Sorrento, perched above the Bay of Naples, where fragrant lemon groves and glittering seas welcome you.
Day 5 – Enchanting Capri by Private Boat
Embark on a private boat excursion around the island of Capri. Glide past towering sea stacks and into hidden coves. If weather permits, visit the luminous Blue Grotto. On land, explore chic Capri Town, famed for its elegant boutiques and sweeping sea views.
Day 6 – Discovering Naples
Head to Naples, the birthplace of pizza and a treasure trove of history. Walk past the Royal Palace, the Galleria Umberto, and the Teatro di San Carlo. Learn about this vibrant city’s complex and captivating history before returning to Sorrento.
Day 7 – High-Speed Train to Florence
Bid farewell to the south and take a high-speed train north to Florence. As you zip through the countryside, prepare for the art and elegance of Tuscany. Check into your hotel and enjoy dinner in the Renaissance capital.
Day 8 – Florence’s Golden Age
Walk the cobbled lanes of Florence, marveling at Brunelleschi’s dome, Giotto’s bell tower, and the Baptistery’s bronze doors. Step inside the Accademia to behold Michelangelo’s David—majestic and lifelike in white marble. Spend the afternoon exploring markets, churches, or simply relaxing in a sun-drenched piazza.
Day 9 – Pisa & Tuscan Wine Experience
Visit the Field of Miracles in Pisa, where the famous Leaning Tower rises beside the cathedral and baptistery. Later, head into the Tuscan countryside to a family-run winery. Stroll through vineyards, learn about wine production, and enjoy a tasting paired with local delicacies.
Day 10 – Padua & Arrival in Venice
Stop in Padua to visit the Basilica of St. Anthony and stroll through the university quarter, one of Europe’s oldest. Then continue to Venice and transfer by boat through the city’s famed canals to your centrally located hotel.
Day 11 – Secrets of Venice
Explore the floating city on foot and by water. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the famous Rialto Bridge. Watch a live glass-blowing demonstration on Murano, then enjoy free time to discover quiet campos, artisan workshops, or a romantic gondola ride.
Day 12 – Sirmione & Lake Garda Beauty
Travel to Sirmione, a fairytale town on Lake Garda. Tour its medieval castle and perhaps enjoy a relaxing soak in thermal waters. The lake’s crystal surface reflects the mountains and colorful lakeside villas.
Day 13 – Milan’s Splendor & Style
Arrive in Milan and begin with a guided tour of the Duomo, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. See La Scala Opera House and explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s most glamorous shopping arcade.
Day 14 – Swiss Detour: Lugano & Lake Como
Cross the border into Switzerland and visit charming Lugano. Then return to Italy for a scenic drive along Lake Como. Enjoy a lakeside lunch and admire the timeless elegance of this beloved region.
Day 15 – Farewell from Milan
Enjoy a final espresso before heading to the airport. Your journey across Italy—north to south, city to sea—has offered flavors, stories, and beauty to last a lifetime.
