Day 1: Rome, Italy, Tour Begins

Welcome to Rome, the “Eternal City.” This evening, join your fellow travellers for a special welcome dinner at a popular local restaurant featuring regional delicacies and fine Italian wines.

Day 2: Rome

This morning you’ll come to know the history and traditions of Rome while on a locally-guided panoramic tour featuring the impressive Piazza Venezia, the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Constantine, the famous Piazza Navona and a visit to the Colosseum. This afternoon it’s your choice. Perhaps a trip to Vatican City, with an optional tour to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica*, will be on your personal sightseeing list.

Day 3: Rome - Assisi - Perugia

Today you’ll travel to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis, where you’ll have a guided walking tour of the old city, including the Basilica of St. Francis. Then you are off to medieval Perugia, the historic capital of Umbria with one of the grandest squares in Italy – the Piazza IV Novembre.

Day 4: Perugia - Siena - Florence

A scenic journey through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills brings you to the mystical city of Siena. Delight in its narrow Gothic streets, magnificent palaces and historic Piazza del Campo. After a walking tour with a local expert, take some time to explore the medieval corners of Siena. You are sure to find many surprises among its shops and outdoor cafés. Arrive in Florence and enjoy some free time before gathering for dinner.

Day 5: Florence

In Florence, the “Cradle of the Italian Renaissance,” visit the world-famous Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s incredible statue of David. During your cultural tour of Florence you’ll also view the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Palazzo Vecchio and the Church of Santa Croce. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy this fascinating city on your own.

Day 6: Florence - Venice

Start your day with a visit to a historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region. In the shadow of its 12th Century castle, learn about the winery’s famed Tuscan wines and enjoy a light lunch filled with local specialties. This afternoon, journey through central Italy, crossing the wooded Apennine Mountains towards the Valley of the Po. Enchanting Venice awaits with 117 tiny islands and its latticework of 150 canals and 400 bridges.

Day 7: Venice - Murano Island - Venice

See Venice from the water this morning as we board a boat** bound for Murano Island for an up-close glass making demonstration. Discover the secrets of this ancient art and marvel at the intricate designs of each one-of-a-kind piece. Next, return to Venice and visit lively St. Mark’s Square, the cultural hub of the city. Uncover the stories of Venice as a local expert guides you on a walking tour of the area featuring St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and the Clock Tower with its famous Moors.

Day 8: Venice - Milan Malpensa

Today you travel to Milan. Take in some of the city’s amazing sights on a locally-guided panoramic tour including the Duomo – this magnificent Gothic cathedral is the third largest church in Europe, the Opera House La Scala and Vittorio Emanuele Gallery. Later, perhaps you will indulge in some shopping at the “Quadrilatero della Moda,” Milan’s high-fashion district. Continue to Milan Malpensa for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of an unforgettable trip.

Day 9: Milan Malpensa - Home

Arrive back in the UK where our door to door transfer service will take you home. Your tour comes to a close in Milan Malpensa this morning.

Collette brochure price from £1404

Travel 55 discount price from £1306

Telephone Collette Holidays on 0800 804 8700 and quote Travel 55 code NYC2

Tour Highlights - Reflections of Italy

• Enjoy a scenic journey through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills
• Step to the front of the line to see Michelangelo’s famous statue of David
• Visit an historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region
• Explore the majestic and historical city of Venice
• In Venice, choose to explore St. Mark's Square and visit the Doge's Palace along with the Bridge of Sighs. Or, step off the beaten track and stroll through the Castello Sestiere district.