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Italy

Italy at a Slower Pace: The Best of Rome & Florence

Program No. 24818RJ
Explore the iconic sites of Rome and Florence, including the Sistine Chapel, the Duomo, the Colosseum and more, at a slower pace.
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Small Group
Length
10 days
Rating (5)
Activity Level
Starts at
5,099
Flights start at
950

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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. Read More.
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
18 meals ( 8B, 4L, 6D )
4 expert-led lectures
10 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
8 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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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 4:30 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).
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.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus or vans. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; 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.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will convene in the hotel's designated meeting room. Here, we will be joined by a local history professor whose expertise will guide us in unraveling the intricate layers of Roman history. This engaging session will be a captivating introduction, setting the stage for our upcoming explorations and deepening our understanding of this remarkable city's past. We will board a bus 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 exterior of 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. Kindly note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visit. Please refer to your Information Packet's "Program Notes" section for additional details on this visit.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, those who wish to return to the hotel by bus or van may do so. Alternatively, you are welcome to continue exploring independently at your leisure. 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:
Next on our itinerary is one of the most anticipated highlights of our program. We’ll be transported by vans or a bus to the Vatican Museums for an exclusive private visit after regular closing hours. This privileged visit will allow us to appreciate select museum collections and the world-renowned Sistine Chapel, recognized as one of humanity’s most significant artistic accomplishments. The Sistine Chapel, located within the Vatican City, is one of the most iconic masterpieces of High Renaissance art. Commissioned by Pope Julius II and painted by the renowned artist Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, its vaulted ceiling showcases a stunning series of frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Among these, the most famous is The Creation of Adam, where God and Adam reach toward each other with outstretched arms. On the altar wall, Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment, painted between 1536 and 1541, vividly portrays the Apocalypse. The Sistine Chapel is a notable attraction and the site where the Papal Conclave meets to elect new popes, adding to its historical and religious importance. The fascinating tales of Michelangelo’s conflicts with Pope Paul III, who commissioned him, have been immortalized in countless books and films. Through his unparalleled skills and resilience, Michelangelo birthed what has been termed a “sanctuary of the theology of the human body.” Please note: Our visit is limited to two hours, following a predetermined path that features the Gallery of Maps, the Hall of Tapestries, and the Stanze di Raffaello (Raphael Rooms) adorned with splendid frescoes. We will return to the hotel by bus or vans. The Vatican Museums consist of 26 sections. If you wish to explore further, consider planning a visit during your free time. Please note that this after-hours visit does not include entry to St. Peter's Basilica.
Activity Note
Getting in/out of a golf cart. Getting on/off a bus or vans. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Unavoidable stairs at sites.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will begin our day by walking to a nearby meeting point, where we will connect with our golf carts for a leisurely expert-led visit to some of Rome's most renowned sites. Our local experts will take us to iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, completed in 1762, and one of the largest and most famous fountains in the world, showcasing intricate Baroque design. We’ll then visit the Spanish Steps, a grand staircase that has become a city symbol, connecting the Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti, built in the early 18th century. Next, we’ll go to Piazza del Popolo, a historic square known for its twin churches and the ancient Egyptian obelisk at its center, dating back to 1300 BCE. We’ll continue through the charming streets of Rome, stopping at the stunning Piazza Navona, once the site of ancient Roman athletic games and now home to Bernini's famous Fountain of the Four Rivers. Finally, we’ll visit the Pantheon, a marvel of ancient Roman engineering that has stood for nearly two millennia and is now one of the best-preserved monuments of Roman Antiquity.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Leaving the restaurant, we will proceed on foot to reach the nearest pick-up point for our bus or vans, taking us to our next exciting destination, the renowned Galleria Borghese. Once an opulent palace that 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, it now stands as a renowned gallery, housing an exquisite collection of art and sculptures that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. 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 visit, we will go to the designated bus or van pick-up point, conclude our field trip, and return 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. The Borghese implements a strict daily visitor cap and limits group visits to a maximum of two hours. Additionally, the museum prohibits taking photographs or videos of any kind.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
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; uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Unavoidable stairs at sites.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will embark on a comfortable bus journey to the enchanting town of Castel Gandolfo, nestled amid the picturesque Alban Hills of Lazio. This charming town is celebrated for its breathtaking vistas overlooking Lake Albano and its historical significance as the favored summer retreat of various Popes. Our field trip begins with an expert-led visit to the Papal Palace, also known as the Apostolic Palace, which boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 17th century, serving as a serene sanctuary for pontiffs seeking relief from the sweltering Roman summers. The property also includes the magnificent Barberini Gardens. These meticulously landscaped gardens, sprawling across nearly 136 acres, stand as a testament to the artistry of horticulture, featuring a diverse array of plants, vibrant blooms, and stately trees. Additionally, we will explore the recently opened Astronomical Observatory within the Apostolic Palace. This facility offers a fascinating insight into the Vatican's longstanding interest in astronomy and its role in scientific discovery, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about the stars through both historical and contemporary lenses. NOTE: In case of inclement weather, we will be unable to visit the gardens. Our Group Leader will make every effort to make the visit to the gardens possible and ensure all participants' safety and enjoyment.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Following our lunch, we will board our bus to return to our hotel in Rome.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus or vans. Steps getting on/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/off the train. The high-speed train ride to Florence takes 1.5 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
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 drive by bus or vans to Roma Termini, the bustling central train station. We will board a high-speed train with reserved seats, commencing our trip toward our following 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:
After lunch, we will check in 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 exploring 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. With our local expert, we will embark on a leisurely city walk through the enchanting centro storico, allowing us to catch glimpses of some of Florence’s most iconic landmarks. Along the way, we will see the magnificent Duomo, the charming Ponte Vecchio, the vibrant Piazza della Signoria, and many other enchanting sights. As we stroll through the historic streets, we'll immerse ourselves in this city's rich history and artistic heritage. 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 a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; uneven paths and cobblestones. Unavoidable stairs at sites. Elevator available at the Accademia. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will convene in the meeting room, where a local art historian will join us. This expert will provide an overview of medieval and Renaissance art, preparing us for our upcoming field trips to the Accademia and Uffizi. 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. We will walk to the Galleria dell'Accademiafor 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.
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. 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.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 15 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; uneven paths and cobblestones. Unavoidable stairs at sites. Elevator available at the Uffizi. Gravel and dirt paths at the agriturismo. Unavoidable steps/stairs. The extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
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, Michelangelo's poignant Holy Family, as well as a selection of Caravaggios, Titians, 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 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. We'll meet at the appointed time to board a bus to Fiesole, a medieval village and agriturismo perched in the hills above Florence. If the weather is on our side, we'll have the opportunity to wander through olive groves while relishing the panoramic view of the city below.
Dinner:
At the agriturismo.
Evening:
We will transfer back to our hotel by bus or van.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; uneven paths, cobblestones, loose gravel, and dirt paths. Elevator available at the Palazzo Pitti. Unavoidable stairs at sites.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll set out on foot for our expert-led field trip to the Palazzo Pitti, nestled on the south bank of the Arno. Built in 1458, the Palazzo Pitti is a monumental emblem of the Renaissance, imbued with profound historical and artistic value. Named after Luca Pitti, a prominent Florentine banker, this grand palace became the Medici family’s home from 1589 until its final member, Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, died in 1743. During Tuscany’s subjugation to French rule, it served as Napoleon’s residence and later became the regal palace of the House of Savoy during Italian Unification. Today, it hosts an impressive art collection featuring works from esteemed artists like Antonio Canova, Artemisia Gentileschi, Raphael, Titian, and Peter Paul Rubens.
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.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
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.
Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025
Nov 22, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
Dec 06, 2025 - Dec 15, 2025
Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 16, 2026
Mar 14, 2026 - Mar 23, 2026
Mar 21, 2026 - Mar 30, 2026
Apr 11, 2026 - Apr 20, 2026
Apr 18, 2026 - Apr 27, 2026
Oct 24, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026
Oct 31, 2026 - Nov 09, 2026
Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 16, 2026
Nov 14, 2026 - Nov 23, 2026
Nov 21, 2026 - Nov 30, 2026





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