Ciao, bella! Can you think of a more romantic destination than Italy? From the iconic landmarks, the delicious food, and the centuries of history, Italy has something for everyone.
Places to visit:
Florence
Immerse yourself in the a red-roofed splendor of old-world Firenze. Set among the rolling, green hills of Tuscany, Florence is the birthplace and focal point of the Italian Renaissance, and it still has the masterpieces to prove it. Brunelleschi’s elegant Duomo (dome) dominates the skyline, and around every corner is an architectural triumph filled with wall after wall of incomparable art.
See Giotto’s Bell Tower and the aptly named Gates of Paradise, the bronze east doors of the Baptistery that spurred the burgeoning Renaissance. The boy guarding the Palazzo Vecchio with his slingshot is just a copy of Michelangelo’s David; the real statue is over at the Accademia. Visit the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli at the Chiesa di Santa Croce. Don’t miss an opportunity to check out Florence’s amazing leather goods when you visit one of the area’s famed workshops.
Venice
Composed of more than 100 islands off the Adriatic, Venice is an absolutely unique and unquestionably beautiful city. The weight of its opulent architecture – bulbous domes, gothic spires, and lacy marble – is sinking the city by 10 inches a century, but you won’t sink out of sight as you tour the intricate labyrinth of streets and bridges. Step into Piazza San Marco, an airy expanse of arches, sunlight, and pigeons.
The multi-domed Basilica on one end, completed in 1094 but decorated for centuries afterward, is the final resting place of the apostle St. Mark, Venice’s patron saint. The mosaics beneath the basilica’s outside arches depict the arrival of St. Mark’s body, stolen from Egypt in 828 by Venetian traders. The frothy Venetian Gothic Doge’s Palace stands next door. Try to check out a glass-blowing demonstration nearby. Venetian glass has long been considered the best in the world, and its production was such a state secret that during the Middle Ages, any Venetian glassblower who attempted to ply his trade outside the city was immediately arrested.
Rome
Gods and gladiators, glory and gore. Ancient Rome lives on in its spectacular monuments, flavoring the frenetic present with tastes of the past. Don a space-age Whisper headset to get the inside scoop on the most spectacular of the city’s ancient relics: the Colosseum, a grisly battle arena that seated more than 45,000. An enormous retractable roof awning system kept spectators cool on sunny days. The nearby Forum provides a glimpse into everyday ancient life, with markets, meeting places, and temples all combined into one vast space.
Move into Christian Rome at St. Peter’s Basilica, the triumphal Renaissance church flanked by rows of columns radiating outward like welcoming arms. Within the Vatican church Michelangelo’s masterpieces are on display. The “Pietà” in the main church and “Last Judgment” in the Sistine Chapel make for some awe-inspiring viewing. Continue your trek through time at Piazza Venezia, site of the enormous monument to Victor Emmanuel II, Italy’s first king, and of the Palazzo Venezia, where Mussolini set up his headquarters.
Staff Tip:
“Just steps away from Piazza Navona, Da Francesco is a great spot where locals go for lunch. Try the cacio e pepe, a simple and delicious Roman pasta recipe with is topped with just what’s in the name: cheese and pepper!”
Laura Jones, Senior Client Experience Manager, San Diego office
We know. It’s a lot to see. Call us and we’ll plan the perfect trip for your group! View our “Best of Italy” tour and contact us to get started with your personal program consultant.