Italy
Italy at a Slower Pace: The Best of Rome & Florence
Program No. 24818RJ
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Italy at a Slower Pace: The Best of Rome & Florence
Italy at a Slower Pace: The Best of Rome & Florence
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Itinerary
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.
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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.
Duration
10 days
9 nights
What's Included
Included
17 meals (
8B, 4L, 5D
)
5 expert-led lectures
12 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
An experienced Group Leader
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Rome
Italy at a Slower Pace: The Best of Rome & Florence
Dec 4 - Dec 13, 2027
Program Number
24818
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Rome, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Rome
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel dei Mellini
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Transfer from Rome Fiumicino Airport to the hotel is about 20 miles (45-minute ride, longer in heavy traffic). Walking approximately 1 mile.
Afternoon:
Check-in and settle in. At 4:30 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 bus 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).
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 bus 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 a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
History, Rome by Golf Cart, Colosseum, Trevi, Pantheon
Location:
Rome
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel dei Mellini
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a golf cart. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; marble flooring, uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Unavoidable stairs at sites. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice. The cart offers a roof but open sides—bring a light layer or rain gear depending on the forecast.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will gather in the hotel meeting room. Here, we will be joined by a local professor who will guide us in unraveling the intricate layers of Roman history. This will be an introduction, setting the stage for our upcoming explorations and deepening our understanding of this remarkable city's past.
We set out on an expert-led golf cart ride that offers a comfortable overview of Rome’s highlights. We pass through Circus Maximus and continue to the Colosseum for views of its exterior and surrounding monuments. From there, we ride on to the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, before returning to the hotel. The cart is covered but open-air, so we enjoy clear views along the way and should be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Timing may vary with traffic, events, or security conditions, and the Instructor will adjust as needed to maximize your time at each site.
Please refer to your Information Packet's "Program Notes" section for additional details on this visit.
We set out on an expert-led golf cart ride that offers a comfortable overview of Rome’s highlights. We pass through Circus Maximus and continue to the Colosseum for views of its exterior and surrounding monuments. From there, we ride on to the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps, before returning to the hotel. The cart is covered but open-air, so we enjoy clear views along the way and should be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Timing may vary with traffic, events, or security conditions, and the Instructor will adjust as needed to maximize your time at each site.
Please refer to your Information Packet's "Program Notes" section for additional details on this visit.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We walk to the Pantheon for an expert-led visit of the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. At the Pantheon, we examine its Roman engineering, massive concrete dome, and long history of continuous use. We then continue to Piazza Navona, built over the ancient Stadium of Domitian, where we discuss its Baroque fountains, surrounding palazzi, and role as a lively civic gathering place from antiquity to today.
Kindly note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visit. Come prepared for the elements: the cart offers a roof but open sides.
After our visit, those who wish may return to the hotel by bus or van. Alternatively, you're welcome to continue exploring independently at your own pace.
Kindly note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visit. Come prepared for the elements: the cart offers a roof but open sides.
After our visit, those who wish may return to the hotel by bus or van. Alternatively, you're welcome to continue exploring independently at your own pace.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Private Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, Free Time
Location:
Rome
Meals:
B
Stay:
Hotel dei Mellini
Activity Note
Getting on and off bus or vans. Early morning departure. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs in the museums. Airport-style security screening at entry. A strict dress code applies: shoulders and knees must be covered. Large bags and backpacks are not permitted. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
We'll begin our day with an early light breakfast featuring coffee, fruit, and pastries. After this, we'll head to the Vatican Museums for our exclusive private visit before the public hours. Following our early access visit, we'll enjoy an American-style breakfast in the picturesque Pigna Courtyard of the Vatican around 8:45 a.m.
Morning:
Next on our itinerary is an early private visit to the Vatican Museums. We depart around 6:15 a.m. by van or bus and enter before the public. With our local expert, we follow a set two-hour route that includes the Gallery of Maps, the Hall of Tapestries, the Raphael Rooms, and the Sistine Chapel. In the Chapel, we study Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and Last Judgment, with time to focus on works like The Creation of Adam and to discuss the Chapel’s role in papal conclaves.
After the Museums, we continue with an expert-led visit of St. Peter’s Basilica. We cover key works and spaces, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino and nave. We plan to return to the hotel by taxi late morning, approximately 11:00 a.m.
Note that this visit may also take place in the evening. The time of day of our visit will be noted in your Final Information Packet. The Vatican Museums consist of 26 sections. If you wish to explore further, consider a return visit during free time. Photography and videography are not permitted in the Sistine Chapel.
For additional details, consult the "Program Notes" section of your Information Packet.
After the Museums, we continue with an expert-led visit of St. Peter’s Basilica. We cover key works and spaces, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino and nave. We plan to return to the hotel by taxi late morning, approximately 11:00 a.m.
Note that this visit may also take place in the evening. The time of day of our visit will be noted in your Final Information Packet. The Vatican Museums consist of 26 sections. If you wish to explore further, consider a return visit during free time. Photography and videography are not permitted in the Sistine Chapel.
For additional details, consult the "Program Notes" section of your Information Packet.
Lunch:
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.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested free time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Castel Gandolfo, Apostolic Palace & Gardens, Roman Monuments
Location:
Rome
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel dei Mellini
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 20 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; marble flooring, uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Unavoidable stairs at sites.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We travel by bus to Castel Gandolfo in the Alban Hills, a lakeside town long favored as a summer retreat by the popes. With our Instructor, we begin in the Barberini Gardens, nearly 136 acres of formal terraces, ancient ruins, and landscaped paths.
After the gardens, we walk into the charming village of Castel Gandolfo and visit the small church designed by Bernini. The facade of the Apostolic Palace forms the backdrop to the central square and sets the tone, and we make our way over to the viewpoint for a full view of Lake Albano.
Before lunch, we take part in a short mosaic workshop activity, a hands-on chance to try our hand at this traditional craft.
In case of inclement weather, the Group Leader will adjust the schedule to keep the visit safe and enjoyable.
After the gardens, we walk into the charming village of Castel Gandolfo and visit the small church designed by Bernini. The facade of the Apostolic Palace forms the backdrop to the central square and sets the tone, and we make our way over to the viewpoint for a full view of Lake Albano.
Before lunch, we take part in a short mosaic workshop activity, a hands-on chance to try our hand at this traditional craft.
In case of inclement weather, the Group Leader will adjust the schedule to keep the visit safe and enjoyable.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We return to our hotel in Rome by bus.
In the late afternoon, we gather in the hotel meeting room for a lecture on Power and Monuments in Rome, led by a local art and architecture historian. We trace how leaders have used buildings, streets, and public spaces to project authority—from ancient imperial forums, arches, and triumphal routes, to papal Rome’s churches and piazzas, and into the modern era. The talk may also examine how the Fascist period reshaped parts of the city through demolitions, new boulevards, and highly symbolic architecture designed to link the regime to the image of ancient Rome.
In the late afternoon, we gather in the hotel meeting room for a lecture on Power and Monuments in Rome, led by a local art and architecture historian. We trace how leaders have used buildings, streets, and public spaces to project authority—from ancient imperial forums, arches, and triumphal routes, to papal Rome’s churches and piazzas, and into the modern era. The talk may also examine how the Fascist period reshaped parts of the city through demolitions, new boulevards, and highly symbolic architecture designed to link the regime to the image of ancient Rome.
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, Florence History & City Walk
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Grand Hotel Adriatico
Activity Note
Getting on and off a bus. Steps getting on and off a train. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day, with standing while waiting for the train; cobblestones, marble flooring, and urban stone sidewalks. Unavoidable stairs getting on and off the train. The high-speed Frecciarossa train to Florence takes about 1.5 hours (175 miles), reaching speeds up to 185 mph. Since checked bags travel ahead to the hotel, pack a day pack with anything you will need. Hotel check-in is from 2:00 p.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Early in the morning, we leave our bags outside our rooms to be collected and delivered to our hotel in Florence. We board a bus or vans to Roma Termini, the city’s bustling central station, where we catch a high-speed train with reserved seats toward our next program site.
Arriving in Florence at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, we set off on foot for a short walk to lunch.
Arriving in Florence at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, we set off on foot for a short walk to lunch.
Lunch:
At the hotel restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we check into the hotel and settle into our rooms.
We will gather for a classroom session on the history of Florence to set the historical and cultural context for the city. Following the talk, we head out on an expert-led city walk through Florence's historic center, connecting the lecture's themes to the streets, buildings, and public spaces that shaped the city's development from Roman foundations through the Renaissance and beyond. A local expert will join us for a relaxed walk through Florence's historic center. We'll pass the Duomo, cross near the Ponte Vecchio, and stop in Piazza della Signoria, with time to note key details and ask questions. As we move through the streets, our local expert will point out significant landmarks and explain the history and art that shaped the city.
We will gather for a classroom session on the history of Florence to set the historical and cultural context for the city. Following the talk, we head out on an expert-led city walk through Florence's historic center, connecting the lecture's themes to the streets, buildings, and public spaces that shaped the city's development from Roman foundations through the Renaissance and beyond. A local expert will join us for a relaxed walk through Florence's historic center. We'll pass the Duomo, cross near the Ponte Vecchio, and stop in Piazza della Signoria, with time to note key details and ask questions. As we move through the streets, our local expert will point out significant landmarks and explain the history and art that shaped the city.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Renaissance Art Lecture, Uffizi, Free Time, Winery
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Grand Hotel Adriatico
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 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, though an elevator is available. Airport-style security screening and bag check at entry. Timed entry, so punctuality is important. Large bags and backpacks must be checked before entering. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We gather in the hotel meeting room, where an art historian joins us for an overview of medieval and Renaissance art, preparing us for our upcoming visit to the Galleria degli Uffizi. The Renaissance, an era of cultural rebirth and artistic brilliance, took shape in Italy between the 15th and 17th centuries. It marked a significant shift from the medieval period, with a renewed focus on humanism, naturalism, perspective, and classical influences.
We will take vans 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, works by Titian, Michelangelo's poignant Holy Family, as well as a selection of Caravaggio 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.
We will take vans 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, works by Titian, Michelangelo's poignant Holy Family, as well as a selection of Caravaggio 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.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested free time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Before dinner at a renowned winery, we will stop for a wine tasting to sample some of Tuscany’s finest local wines. This tasting will offer a chance to experience the region's unique flavors, including renowned reds like Chianti and Brunello while learning about the winemaking traditions passed down through generations.
Before dinner at a renowned winery, we will stop for a wine tasting to sample some of Tuscany’s finest local wines. This tasting will offer a chance to experience the region's unique flavors, including renowned reds like Chianti and Brunello while learning about the winemaking traditions passed down through generations.
Dinner:
At the winery.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Accademia, Free Time, Italy Today
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Grand Hotel Adriatico
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble flooring, and some uneven urban stone sidewalks. An elevator is available at the Accademia. Some unavoidable stairs in the museum. Airport-style security screening and bag check at entry. Timed entry, so punctuality is important. Large bags and backpacks must be checked before entering. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will walk to the Galleria dell'Accademia for an on-site lecture from a local expert 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 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 will 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.
Beyond the David, we will 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.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for independent personal exploration to see and do what interests you most. You can also consult your suggested free time activities list in your program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
In a classroom session at the hotel led by our Group Leader, we will delve into the intricate tapestry of Italian society, exploring its regional nuances and the profound influence of national institutions that continue to shape the lives of its residents with a lecture on Italy today.
In a classroom session at the hotel led by our Group Leader, we will delve into the intricate tapestry of Italian society, exploring its regional nuances and the profound influence of national institutions that continue to shape the lives of its residents with a lecture on Italy today.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
San Miniato, Piazzale Michelangelo, Agriturismo, Social Hour
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Grand Hotel Adriatico
Activity Note
Getting on and off a bus; driving about 15 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time across the day. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; marble flooring, uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Hilly terrain with inclines and unavoidable steps at the hilltop sites. Gravel and dirt paths at the agriturismo. San Miniato dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. Largely outdoors with limited shade.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the late morning, we board our bus and ride up to San Miniato al Monte, one of Florence's oldest churches. This Romanesque basilica crowns the hill with its green-and-white marble façade and golden mosaic. Inside, we will see a raised choir over the crypt, marble inlay floors, and serene chapels; the adjoining cemetery holds notable Florentines. Step outside for one of the city's best viewpoints—San Miniato looks straight over the Arno to the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and the rooftops of the historic center.
On the way back down, we stop at Piazzale Michelangelo, the 19th-century terrace designed by Giuseppe Poggi. The square is famous for its sweeping, postcard-perfect panorama of Florence and its bronze copy of Michelangelo's David.
From Piazzale Michelangelo, we board our bus to Fiesole, a medieval hill town overlooking Florence. We continue to an agriturismo set in the hills above the city. When the weather permits, we stroll through olive groves and take in sweeping views of Florence below.
On the way back down, we stop at Piazzale Michelangelo, the 19th-century terrace designed by Giuseppe Poggi. The square is famous for its sweeping, postcard-perfect panorama of Florence and its bronze copy of Michelangelo's David.
From Piazzale Michelangelo, we board our bus to Fiesole, a medieval hill town overlooking Florence. We continue to an agriturismo set in the hills above the city. When the weather permits, we stroll through olive groves and take in sweeping views of Florence below.
Lunch:
At the agriturismo.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we reboard bus and head back to our hotel in Florence.
After our lecture, we will gather for a farewell aperitivo together at the hotel bar. This will be a chance to enjoy some light refreshments, share final conversations, and toast the time we've spent together before departing the next day.
After our lecture, we will gather for a farewell aperitivo together at the hotel bar. This will be a chance to enjoy some light refreshments, share final conversations, and toast the time we've spent together before departing the next day.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
10
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
In the hotel restaurant, guests with early departures will be provided with a convenient takeaway breakfast bag. 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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Please Note:
This program has itinerary variations on certain dates.