Day 1: June 26th – Begin with Pompeii + Continue to Rome

Meet the travelers finishing their sailing trip along the Amalfi coast and head inland traveling to Pompeii for a guided visit, then continue on to Rome for a late check-in. In Pompeii, walk ancient streets frozen by Vesuvius—often including the Forum, baths, theaters, preserved homes, and (when available) the powerful plaster casts—before heading north.

 

Day 2: June 27th – Rome: Baroque Squares + City Icons

Explore Rome on foot through its most famous piazzas and fountains, often including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona—classic landmarks that make for an unforgettable first deep dive into the city’s atmosphere. 

Day 3: June 28th – Rome: Ancient Rome (Colosseum + Forum)

With a licensed guide, step inside the Colosseum to hear the stories of gladiators, emperors, and the spectacles that once filled the arena. Continue through the Roman Forum—temples, arches, and public buildings that once framed daily life and politics—bringing the world of ancient Rome into sharp focus. 

Day 4: June 29th – Rome: The Vatican 

Visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel with a local guide, focusing on the most important highlights rather than rushing room to room. Continue to St. Peter’s Square and, if time and energy allow, step inside the basilica to round out a day at the epicenter of the Catholic world. 

Day 5: June 30th – Transfer to Florence + Intro Walk

Guests concluding in Rome depart, while the rest travel to Florence and check into a centrally located hotel. Enjoy an introductory walk through the historic center—Duomo area, Piazza della Signoria, and the Ponte Vecchio—setting the stage for the Renaissance days ahead. 

Day 6: July 1st – Florence: Art + Views

Focus on a curated set of Renaissance masterpieces—often highlighted by a visit to the Galleria dell’Accademia to see Michelangelo’s David—then enjoy time for artisan streets or a scenic overlook above the city for classic Florence views. 

Day 7: July 2nd – Transfer to Venice: St. Mark’s + Grand Canal

Travel to Venice and spend the afternoon exploring the heart of the city with a guide—St. Mark’s Square, the waterfront, and a selection of quiet backstreets—leaving plenty of time for photos, questions, and that first “wow” moment in the lagoon. 

Day 8: July 3rd – Venice: Lagoon Islands + Neighborhoods

By boat, visit one or more lagoon islands such as Murano (glassmaking) and/or Burano (brightly painted houses), balancing sightseeing with free time to wander, shop, and soak up Venice’s slower, canal-side rhythm. 

Day 9: July 4th – Depart for Home

Private transfer to the Venice airport for departure.