Italy

The Best of Italy: Rome, Florence and Venice

Program No. 18206RJ
Learn about three great Italian cities as you visit Rome’s preserved ruins, explore Renaissance architecture in Florence and discover the renowned cathedrals and cuisine of Venice.

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At a Glance

Experience the beauty of three historic capitals of Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance acclaim as local experts lead you through some of Italy's greatest cities. Follow the path of legendary artists, scientists, and philosophers from the classical remnants of Rome to the preserved treasures of Florence and Venice.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to six miles a day. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones, inclines, loose gravel, escalators. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Venice's canal bridges have ramps or stairs with handrails. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums. Program-related travel and transfers will be via bus, high-speed train, vaporetto, and water taxi. Sheltered waiting areas may not be available at docks.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Trace history as you visit the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Galleria Borghese.
  • Journey to Florence and Venice via a high-speed train, reaching speeds of over 190 mph.
  • View the statue of "David" — and ride in a gondola through the canals of Venice.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Elaine Ruffolo
Elaine Ruffolo has been teaching art history in Florence since 1989. Her special interests include the history of art and patronage in Renaissance Florence. Elaine currently lectures for Syracuse University and Stanford University in Florence. She is also the resident director for the Smithsonian Associate’s programs in Italy, and has developed art history programs for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Yale University Alumni, College of William and Mary and the Patrons of the Vatican Museums.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Elaine Ruffolo
Elaine Ruffolo View biography
Elaine Ruffolo has been teaching art history in Florence since 1989. Her special interests include the history of art and patronage in Renaissance Florence. Elaine currently lectures for Syracuse University and Stanford University in Florence. She is also the resident director for the Smithsonian Associate’s programs in Italy, and has developed art history programs for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Yale University Alumni, College of William and Mary and the Patrons of the Vatican Museums.
Profile Image of Rachel Potts
Rachel Potts View biography
Rachel Potts is a licensed excursion leader in Rome. She graduated from Manchester University with a bachelor's in Philosophy and French, and later studied garden design at the London Gardening School. Having grown up in Rome, she chose to return to Italy and share her knowledge and love of Rome and the surrounding areas.
Profile Image of Rosanna Giannotti
Rosanna Giannotti View biography
Rosanna Giannotti is a Senior Authorized Venice Guide Lecturer who has devoted her life to studying the art and history of her home city. She is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, and she has always had a penchant for traveling and cosmopolitanism, in order to expand her knowledge and connect Venetian history with the world context. Rosanna is a member of the most prestigious Italian and European Associations of Guide Lecturers and has cooperated with Road Scholar programs in Venice for over 30 years.
Profile Image of Giulietta Seme
Giulietta Seme View biography
Julieta is a passionate student of history, specializing in the history and culture of her native city of Rome. She studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Roma with a concentration in painting before earning a degree in classical archaeology and art history from the Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza." Outside of history, Julieta enjoys hiking beautiful nature trails by the seaside or in the mountains of Italy.
Profile Image of Alessio Rosoldi
Alessio Rosoldi View biography
Alessio Rosoldi is a native of Rome and a true lifelong learner. He graduated from the Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza" with a degree in foreign languages and literature and an MA in intercultural communication. Alessio went on to work for the World Food Program, a United Nations entity based out of Rome. Recently, he earned a second MA, this time in Italian studies from the University of Washington.
Profile Image of Richard Bowen
Richard Bowen View biography
Richard Bowen, a native of London, has lived in Rome for most of his adult life. He was awarded a BA in humanities from Middlesex University and an MA in history from University College in London. As a young graduate, he worked as an archaeologist for the Museum of London. Richard is a licensed group leader for the Province of Rome and has led groups in Italy and other parts of Europe. He has a keen interest in political, social, and art history.
Profile Image of Suzanne Myers
Suzanne Myers View biography
Suzanne Myers originally hails from Lincoln, Nebraska and has been living in Florence since 2011. She has a BA in art history from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota and an MA in art history from Syracuse University. She works as a lecturer for several study away programs in Florence and as a licensed group leader. Suzanne specializes in Italian Renaissance art, but also loves to lecture on a wide range of subjects from the Medici family to the Black Death to Florentine fashion.
Profile Image of Marco Ceccarani
Marco A. Ceccarani View biography
Marco Ceccarani, a native of Assisi, holds a PhD in humanities from the Università degli Studi di Perugia. His field of expertise includes medieval and Renaissance Italian civilization and literature. He has taught for several American universities in the United States and currently teaches in Florence for American university study away programs.
Profile Image of Monica Chojnacka
Monica Chojnacka View biography
Monica Chojnacka earned her PhD in European history from Stanford University and undergraduate degrees from Kalamazoo College and the London School of Economics and Political Science. From 1994-2007 she was a professor of history at the University of Georgia, where she authored numerous publications. She has published books relating to Venice on topics as diverse as women of the Renaissance, food and wine. Monica continues to teach in Venice, primarily for study away programs for American universities, as well as online courses.
Profile Image of Susan Steer
Susan Steer View biography
Susan Steer is originally from England. She came to Venice 20 years ago as an art history undergraduate with an internship at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, later serving as a supervisor of the British pavilion at the Venice Biennale. Living and working in Venice changed her life, falling in love with its architecture, art, and lifestyle. She returned to study for an MA and a PhD in Venetian art. Susan married a Venetian. They and their son share their time between the UK and Venice.
Profile Image of Cristiana Filippini
Cristiana Filippini View biography
Cristiana Filippini was awarded her doctorate from Johns Hopkins University with a dissertation on 11th-century frescoes in Rome. She has also completed specialized study in archeology and art history from the Università degli Studi di Siena, Italy and has taught at the American University in Rome and at Trinity College’s Rome Campus.
Profile Image of Enrica Lattanzio
Enrica Lattanzio View biography
Enrica Lattanzio, born and raised in Milan, holds a master's in international law from the University of Milan and a piano degree from the Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory. Her career includes roles as a PR manager in the United States and the Dominican Republic. She is fluent in English and Spanish, which she acquired during her international experiences. She passionately works as a group leader in Italy, combining her diverse skills.
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Year
2025
  • 2024
  • 2025
Date and Direction
Oct 25 - Nov 05 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 01 - Mar 12 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 15 - Mar 26 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 22 - Apr 02 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 29 - Apr 09 (Rome to Venice)
  • Apr 05 - Apr 16 (Rome to Venice)
  • Apr 26 - May 07 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 03 - May 14 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 10 - May 21 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 17 - May 28 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 24 - Jun 04 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 31 - Jun 11 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 06 - Sep 17 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 13 - Sep 24 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 20 - Oct 01 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 27 - Oct 08 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 04 - Oct 15 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 11 - Oct 22 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 18 - Oct 29 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 25 - Nov 05 (Rome to Venice)
  • Nov 01 - Nov 12 (Rome to Venice)
  • Nov 08 - Nov 19 (Rome to Venice)
  • Nov 22 - Dec 03 (Rome to Venice)
  • Dec 06 - Dec 17 (Rome to Venice)
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
2025
  • 2024
  • 2025
Oct 25 - Nov 05 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 01 - Mar 12 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 15 - Mar 26 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 22 - Apr 02 (Rome to Venice)
  • Mar 29 - Apr 09 (Rome to Venice)
  • Apr 05 - Apr 16 (Rome to Venice)
  • Apr 26 - May 07 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 03 - May 14 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 10 - May 21 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 17 - May 28 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 24 - Jun 04 (Rome to Venice)
  • May 31 - Jun 11 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 06 - Sep 17 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 13 - Sep 24 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 20 - Oct 01 (Rome to Venice)
  • Sep 27 - Oct 08 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 04 - Oct 15 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 11 - Oct 22 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 18 - Oct 29 (Rome to Venice)
  • Oct 25 - Nov 05 (Rome to Venice)
  • Nov 01 - Nov 12 (Rome to Venice)
  • Nov 08 - Nov 19 (Rome to Venice)
  • Nov 22 - Dec 03 (Rome to Venice)
  • Dec 06 - Dec 17 (Rome to Venice)
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
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12 days
11 nights
21 meals
10 B 5 L 6 D
DAY
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
DAY
2
Arrive Rome, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Rome
D
Hotel Diana Roof Garden

Activity note: Hotel check-in from 12:00 p.m. Transfer from Rome Fiumicino Airport to hotel is 20 miles (50-minute ride). Walking approximately 1 mile.

Afternoon: Check-in and settle in. At 4:00 p.m., we gather in the meeting room for an Orientation session. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Breakfasts will be buffets. Other included meals will be plated and served from a set menu unless indicated otherwise; water is included, other beverages will be available for purchase. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, attending performances or other events, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. Transportation will be provided primarily by motorcoach and regional train. Periods in the schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times might change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will alert you as quickly as possible in the event of changes. Thank you for being so understanding. Next, we will join our Group Leader in a welcome cocktail (or fruit juice).

Dinner: At the hotel restaurant.

Evening: Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY
3
Colosseum, Forum, Roman History Lecture
Rome
B,L,D
Hotel Diana Roof Garden

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Elevator available in the Colosseum. Unavoidable stairs at sites.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: We will board coaches or vans that will take us to the nearest drop-off point near the Roman Forum, where a local expert will captivate our imagination as we envision the now-ruined buildings. Our field trip will then proceed to the Colosseum, where intriguing anecdotes about Roman entertainment from centuries past will be shared. Constructed in 80 CE and officially named the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum stood as the grandest structure in the Roman Empire. Spanning an impressive 620 by 513 feet, it had a seating capacity of over 50,000 spectators. The methods employed to create the numerous wonders within its walls continue to mystify architects and researchers today. Throughout history and even in contemporary popular culture, it has become an iconic symbol of gladiatorial combat and the tragic fate endured by countless enslaved people, prisoners of war, condemned criminals, and animals from across the empire. Those with the energy and stamina are welcome to climb the 10-foot-high steps to reach the upper level. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Once we return to the hotel, we will gather in the meeting room, where we will have the pleasure of being joined by a local history professor whose expertise will guide us in unraveling the intricate layers of Roman history. This engaging session will serve as a captivating introduction, setting the stage for our upcoming explorations and deepening our understanding of this remarkable city's past. Rome, known as the Eternal City, has a rich and storied history spanning over 2,500 years. Founded in 753 BCE, Rome began as a small village and grew into a mighty empire that dominated the Mediterranean world. It witnessed the rise and fall of great civilizations, from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, leaving a lasting legacy in governance, engineering, art, and culture. Rome was the center of power and influence, producing iconic figures such as Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Constantine the Great. It witnessed triumphs, conquests, and significant architectural achievements, including the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the expansive network of aqueducts.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
4
Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Free Time
Rome
B,L
Hotel Diana Roof Garden

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: Embarking on a captivating walking field trip, we will be conducted by a local expert to explore three iconic landmarks nestled in the heart of Rome: Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the magnificent Baroque Trevi Fountain. Our first destination is the Pantheon, a remarkable testament to ancient Rome's architectural prowess and the best-preserved monument of its kind. While historical accounts credit Emperor Hadrian for its commission in 118-125 CE, recent studies propose an earlier origin. The Pantheon's design achievements and original purpose continue to bewilder archaeologists, architects, and historians. Stepping inside, we will witness the play of natural light through the ceiling's oculus, illuminating the niches along the interior perimeter. Continuing our journey, we will find ourselves at the Fontana di Trevi, a grand masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome, completed in 1743. This magnificent structure replaced previous versions that marked the terminus of one of the city's aqueducts. The fountain's architecture and the symbolic figures and gestures adorning it will be unveiled as we uncover the stories behind its creation. Our final stop will be the vibrant Piazza Navona, which holds a captivating history. This long oval piazza has since evolved into the quintessential Baroque setting, initially built by Emperor Domitian between 81-96 CE as a venue for track and field games. The buildings lining the perimeter mimic the footprint of ancient bleachers. Within this lively square, artists and performers bring life to its charming atmosphere. We will encounter Gian Lorenzo Bernini's awe-inspiring Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center and admire Francesco Borromini's architectural masterpiece, the church of St. Agnes, on the west side. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visits.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You can also consult your list of suggested free time activities in your program materials.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions. You can also consult your list of suggested restaurants in your program materials.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
5
Free Time, Galleria Borghese
Rome
B
Hotel Diana Roof Garden

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and urban stone sidewalks. Elevator available at the Galleria Borghese. Unavoidable stairs in museum.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You can also consult your list of suggested free time activities in your program materials.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Our next destination will be the renowned Borghese Gallery, an opulent palace that once served as the private pleasure and reception residence of Cardinal Scipio Borghese (1577–1633), a notable art collector, patron of the young Bernini and nephew of Pope Paul V. Accompanied by a local expert, we will enter the gallery at our scheduled time to embark on an enlightening exploration. Within the gallery's walls, we will encounter an impressive array of significant artworks, including paintings by masters such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Botticelli, and Titian. However, the collection's true highlight lies in Bernini's emotionally charged sculptures, which eloquently capture the essence of the Baroque era. After our captivating visit, we will make our way to the designated motorcoach pick-up point, concluding our field trip and returning to the hotel. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

DAY
6
High-Speed Train to Florence, History of Florence
Florence
B,L,D
Rivoli Boutique Hotel

Activity note: Steps getting on/off a train. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with standing while waiting for the train; cobblestones, marble flooring, and urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs getting on/off the train. High-speed train to Florence takes 1.5 hours (175 miles). Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: In the early morning, we will arrange for our bags to be collected from outside our rooms, ensuring their convenient delivery to our hotel in Florence. We will set out on foot to nearby Roma Termini, the bustling main train station. We will board a high-speed train with reserved seats, commencing our trip toward our next program site. Upon reaching Florence, we will set off on foot from Firenze Santa Maria Novella, embarking on a pleasant walk toward our designated lunch destination.

Lunch: At the hotel restaurant.

Afternoon: Upon arrival, we will proceed to the check-in process and comfortably settle into our accommodations. Later in the afternoon, a local historian will take center stage to illuminate the captivating history of Medieval Florence and the prominent Medici family. Our journey will begin with an exploration of the city's Roman origins, setting the foundation for understanding how the Medici family ascended to power by the close of the 15th century, establishing a formidable dynasty that would govern Florence and shape its destiny as the cradle of the Renaissance. Under the Medici's patronage, significant portions of the city were meticulously rebuilt in the resplendent style of the Renaissance, setting the stage for the flourishing of arts, humanities, and scientific endeavors. Additionally, the Medici family amassed a remarkable collection of artistic treasures, further cementing their legacy as enthusiastic patrons of the arts. Following a short break, we will embark on a leisurely neighborhood walk accompanied by our Group Leader. This informative excursion will allow us to familiarize ourselves with the local area and discover the locations of ATMs, pharmacies, and various stores and shops, ensuring our convenience during our stay.

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
7
Duomo & Museum, Accademia
Florence
B,D
Rivoli Boutique Hotel

Activity note: Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and some uneven urban stone sidewalks. Elevator available at the Opera del Duomo Museum. Some unavoidable stairs in the museums.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: Our journey will lead us to the splendid Duomo, where we will rendezvous with a museum docent to explore Florence's most renowned landmark, officially named the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore but affectionately known as the Duomo. As we embark on this captivating adventure, we will discover that the Duomo is not only the third-largest church globally, but it also houses an architectural marvel that has come to define the wonders of the Renaissance. Designed by the brilliant Filippo Brunelleschi (1377-1444) and completed in 1434, the magnificent dome was a remarkable feat of innovation during its time, leaving a lasting impression as one of the crowning achievements of the era. In addition to our exploration of the Duomo itself, we will have the privilege of delving into the Duomo Museum, recently reopened after undergoing a comprehensive renovation and modernization. Within this captivating space, we will encounter a treasure trove of artistic brilliance, with over 750 works of art spanning more than seven centuries of history. The museum's extensive collection showcases a captivating array of medieval and Renaissance statues and reliefs meticulously crafted from marble, bronze, and silver by the celebrated artists of their time. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit. Please be aware that, due to an extensive restoration project, the mosaics within the Florence Baptistery may not be accessible for viewing during our visit.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: We will walk to the Accademia for a lecture on one of the most famous statues in the world, Michelangelo's David. The David stands as an enduring masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture and one of the world's most iconic works of art. Housed within the Galleria dell'Accademia, this awe-inspiring statue mesmerizes visitors with its exceptional craftsmanship and powerful depiction of the biblical figure. Carved by Michelangelo from a single block of marble between 1501 and 1504, David stands tall at over 17 feet and captivates viewers with its remarkable level of detail and lifelike representation. From the intricate musculature to the intense gaze and the poised stance, David embodies the physical and spiritual strength that epitomized the Renaissance era. Beyond the David, we can explore an impressive collection of Renaissance artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and musical instruments. The museum also houses Michelangelo's unfinished sculptures, known as the Prisoners, which provide valuable insights into the artist's creative process. It has been suggested that Michelangelo left them in their incomplete state to symbolize the struggle of humankind to free the spirit from matter. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

Dinner: At the hotel restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
8
Renaissance Art, Uffizi
Florence
B,L
Rivoli Boutique Hotel

Activity note: Walking up to 4 miles total throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; marble flooring, cobblestones and some uneven urban stone sidewalks and streets. Unavoidable steps in the Uffizi.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: We will convene in the hotel's meeting room, where an esteemed art historian will join us. This expert will provide a captivating overview of medieval and Renaissance art, preparing us for our upcoming field trip to the renowned Uffizi Gallery. The Renaissance, an era of cultural rebirth and artistic brilliance, emerged in Italy during the 15th to 17th centuries. It marked a significant shift from the medieval period, showcasing a renewed focus on humanism, naturalism, perspective, and classical influences. In addition to the enlightening presentation, our Group Leader will host a brief session to discuss the practical logistics of navigating the enchanting city of Venice.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: We will walk to the reserved entrance of the Galleria degli Uffizi for our self-directed field trip, where we are free to venture through the museum at our own pace, and explore according to our individual interests. Renowned as the most extensive collection of Renaissance art worldwide, the Uffizi showcases a remarkable journey through various artistic periods, from Gothic to medieval, Renaissance to Mannerist, encompassing painting, architecture, and sculpture. Within its hallowed halls, we will encounter a multitude of iconic masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci's mesmerizing Annunciation, Botticelli's ethereal Birth of Venus and enchanting Primavera, captivating works by Titian, Michelangelo's poignant Holy Family, as well as a selection of Caravaggios and Artemisia Gentileschi's compelling artworks. It is worth noting that a coffee bar awaits us at the end of the second corridor, atop the Loggia. Here, we can relish a moment of refreshment while marveling at the splendid view of the Palazzo Vecchio and the magnificent Duomo. This provides an ideal opportunity to rejuvenate, sip a delightful beverage, and enjoy a well-deserved rest amidst the artistic wonders that surround us. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

Dinner: On your own to sample the local fare.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

DAY
9
High-Speed Train to Venice, History of Venice Lecture
Venice
B,L,D
Hotel Principe

Activity note: Getting on/off a train. Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day with periods of standing while waiting for the train; cobblestones, marble flooring, and some uneven urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs in train stations. High-speed train to Venice takes 2.15 hours (150 miles). Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: As our time in Florence comes to a close, we will check out of the hotel, ensuring a seamless experience by conveniently depositing our bags in the lobby under the attentive supervision of our Group Leader. Our bags will be loaded onto a van that will transport them directly to our hotel in Venice, sparing us the hassle of handling them along the way. Departing in the mid-morning, we will go to the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station on foot, boarding a high-speed train bound for Venice. This swift ride will whisk us through the picturesque Italian landscapes, bringing us closer to the enchanting city of Venice. Arriving just in time for lunch, we will be welcomed at our hotel after a short walk, allowing us to settle in and savor a delightful meal, marking the beginning of our memorable adventures in Venice.

Lunch: At the hotel restaurant.

Afternoon: After lunch, we will check into our rooms, granting us a moment to refresh and unwind after our journey. Taking this time to rejuvenate, we can settle in and enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation. Around 4:30 p.m., we will gather in the hotel meeting room, where a local historian will captivate us with their insights into the rich legacy of Venice. Through their expertise, we will better understand the city's history, culture, and distinctive character. Venice, the enchanting city built on a lagoon, boasts a captivating history stretching over a thousand years. Founded in the 5th century, Venice originally served as a refuge for residents fleeing the fall of the Roman Empire. Over time, it evolved into a powerful maritime republic, emerging as a dominant force in Mediterranean trade during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Venice flourished as a hub of commerce and cultural exchange, amassing immeasurable wealth and influence. Its strategic location and innovative maritime technology enabled the Venetians to establish a vast trading empire, extending their reach across the Mediterranean and beyond. After our lecture, under the guidance of our Group Leader, we will set out on a delightful neighborhood walk, exploring the surroundings on foot. This immersive excursion will allow us to familiarize ourselves with essential amenities such as ATMs, pharmacies, local stores, and convenient vaporetto stops near our hotel. This insightful walk will ensure that we are well-acquainted with the essentials, facilitating a smooth and enjoyable experience during our stay in Venice. During our days in Venice, we will be provided with passes for the vaporetto, Venice's efficient and picturesque ACTV public transportation system via boats. These passes will grant us unlimited rides on the major routes, allowing us to effortlessly explore all six of the city's distinct districts, known as "sestieri."

Dinner: At a local restaurant.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
10
San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Gondola Ride, Free Time
Venice
B
Hotel Principe

Activity note: Getting on/off vaporetto. Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and some uneven urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs on bridges and in churches. Crossing multiple bridges that span canals; some bridges may lack handrails.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: By vaporetto, we will venture towards the vibrant heart of Venice, the iconic Piazza San Marco. This expansive public space often called the "drawing room of Europe" during the 19th century, beckons us with its awe-inspiring grandeur. At the center of this splendid square, we will discover the resplendent Basilica of San Marco, adorned with intricate Byzantine-inspired mosaics and lavish decorations. Towering nearby, the majestic Campanile, a bell tower offering panoramic views of the city, beckons us to ascend and admire the breathtaking vistas. Adjacent to these awe-inspiring structures, the imposing Palazzo Ducale, the seat of Venetian political power, captivates with its intricate Gothic design. These iconic landmarks create an enchanting and unforgettable atmosphere within one of the most impressive public squares found anywhere in the world. Our local expert will direct us through an immersive exploration of the Palazzo Ducale. Within the palace's opulent walls, the Doges embellished the residential quarters and ceremonial chambers of the Great Council with extravagant artwork, including captivating murals created by masters such as Tintoretto and Veronese. As we venture through the palace, we will witness the grandeur of spacious courtrooms and the hauntingly intriguing prisons connected by the famous Bridge of Sighs. This iconic bridge earned its name from the bittersweet sighs of prisoners who crossed it, knowing it marked their final glimpse of light and freedom before incarceration. Afterward, we will embark on a delightful gondola ride, offering a unique perspective of the city as we gracefully glide along its enchanting canals. The history of Venetian gondolas is steeped in tradition and dates back centuries. With their distinctive design, these elegant, flat-bottomed boats have been an iconic symbol of Venice for generations.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: On your own to sample the local fare.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY
11
Rialto, Free Time
Venice
B,D
Hotel Principe

Activity note: Getting on/off vaporetto and gondola (assistance offered). Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and some uneven urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs on bridges and in museum. Crossing multiple bridges that span canals; some bridges may lack handrails.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant.

Morning: We will board the vaporetto, heading towards the vibrant Rialto area, nestled within the historic sestiere of San Polo. We will be joined by a local expert who will take us on a walking field trip through one of Venice's oldest districts. As we make our way, we will cross the remarkable Rialto Bridge, the city's oldest bridge, which elegantly connects the San Polo and San Marco sestieri. From the bridge's summit, we will enjoy a splendid vantage point, capturing photographs of the bustling traffic on the iconic Grand Canal. The Rialto Bridge is a captivating symbol of Venice's rich history and architectural brilliance. As the oldest bridge in the city, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Spanning the majestic Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge connects the bustling districts of San Polo and San Marco, serving as a vital link between these vibrant areas. Its elegant design, featuring a central arch and two graceful ramps, is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its creators. From the bridge's summit, one can savor breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Canal, capturing the essence of Venetian life as gondolas glide along the waterway and vibrant activity unfolds below. Concluding our field trip, we will venture towards the renowned Rialto markets, a historical hub of Venetian culinary culture supplying the city with food since 1097. At the break of dawn, barges laden with fresh produce arrive, setting the stage for a vibrant market experience. As time progresses, the stands and carts of vendors come alive, offering an astonishing array of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other provisions. With some leisurely time at the market, we can independently explore and immerse ourselves in the bustling atmosphere, witnessing the age-old tradition of Venetians acquiring their food in this lively marketplace. Kindly note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visit.

Lunch: On your own to sample the local fare.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You might like to use your vaporetto pass to ride up and down the Grand Canal, explore the Lido, or investigate some of the fascinating little streets and learn the difference between a calle, salizada, ramo, and ruga.

Dinner: At the hotel restaurant. Recap your adventures and share your favorite memories.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.

DAY
12
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
In Flight
B

Activity note: Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers. At the hotel’s private dock, bags will be loaded onto the boat and then off the boat at the airport dock. A few steps from the boat to the dock and you are in the water transportation wing of the airport. Follow the signs to the main terminal. Carts are available or use the moving walkway.

Breakfast: At the hotel restaurant; for those with early departures, the hotel will prepare a bagged breakfast with a fruit, a roll or pastry, fruit juice, and water to take with you. This concludes our program.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!






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