Explore Italy’s sophisticated capitals of Venice, Florence and Rome – the beautiful cobblestone squares, centuries’ old tradition and historic highlights like the mighty Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa and spectacular Duomo must-visits on your open-air museum tour of this fascinating destination.

Your Local Specialist takes you on a sightseeing tour with a visit to the Vatican City. Visit the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica and view Michelangelo’s statue, the Pietà. Don’t miss the opportunity to join an Optional Experience to visit inside the famous Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums. View the mighty Colosseum and see the ancient sites of Rome. Afterwards enjoy free time to take in the sights or join an Optional Experience to explore the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

This morning leave Rome and head north towards Central Italy. Travel through picturesque scenery in Umbria and Tuscany before arriving in the town of Pisa. Visit the Square of Miracles featuring the Leaning Tower, Cathedral and Baptistery. There is time to shop for souvenirs and take pictures. Later arrive at your hotel near Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance.

There are few cities in the world with an artistic legacy to equal that of Florence. Your Local Specialist gives a superb commentary of the city’s history during your walking tour, which includes views of the Baptistery, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the impressive Giotto’s Bell Tower and a visit to Piazza della Signoria. Experience a demonstration of fine leatherwork with time to explore on your own. Shop for high-quality leather and 18-carat gold jewellery for which Florence is renowned and don’t forget to try the gelato.

Your journey continues north across the dramatic Apennine Mountains to Verona, the home of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers. View the vast Roman Arena, where concerts are still held regularly each year. Stop and view Juliet’s balcony in a courtyard which has become a popular tourist site for the tragic story of the Montague and Capulet family feud.

Watch the Venetian craftsmen at work creating local specialities at a glassblowing workshop on Giudecca Island. Then cruise by private launch to St. Mark’s Square in the heart of Venice. Admire the Bridge of Sighs, the ornate Doge’s Palace and the Byzantine Basilica of St. Mark. Spend free time afterwards exploring this fascinating city or perhaps take a cruise across the lagoon to the island of Burano for a relaxing farewell dinner. Burano is an island in the Venetian lagoon known for its brightly coloured houses.