12-Day Voyage to Italy's Iconic Cities & Enchanting Countryside

Book early if you want to see the Vatican Museum's monumental works of art from the greatest Italian artists of the Renaissance.

The Vatican Museum is actually 26 different museums, which include not only exhibitions but chapels, apartments, and other rooms of the Vatican palace, covering a huge range of fine and applied arts patronized by the popes. There's also an outstanding collection of ancient antiquities (including even the Emperor Nero's red stone bathtub), a gallery of hand-painted maps, and whole rooms turned into works of art. In addition to ancient and medieval works of art, you'll see masterpieces by the "who's who" of the Italian Renaissance, including Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, and Caravaggio. Other highlights include panels by the brilliant monk-artist Fra Angelico, works from the Venetian school, including Vavarini, and much, much more.  Booking in advance is highly recommended as otherwise you can wait for hours or not even be able to get in at all.

Explore the gigantic and incredibly beautiful church known as "the greatest of all churches of Christendom".

The basilica is one of the chief pilgrimage sites in the Christian world, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. The basilica is the symbolic center of the church not only because the Pope frequently celebrates Mass there, but because it is believed that the apostle St. Peter is buried beneath it. Catholics consider Peter as the first Bishop of Rome and "the rock" upon which the Catholic Church was built, in accordance with Christ's instructions. Inside you can admire sculptures by Bernini as well as Michelangelo's famous sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding the crucified Jesus, known as The Pietà. The church's elaborate and impressive golden interior is a sight to behold. Other sights include St Peter's tomb, the Papal crypts in the necropolis under the basilica, as well as the dome, which rewards visitors with views over Rome.  Entry is free, but queues to visit the Basilica can be lengthy, so it is highly advised to either get there early or to purchase a skip the line entrance. The dome is also paid entry. 

Escape the crowds in this oasis of green hidden behind the walls of the Vatican.

Accessible only via a guided tour, the gardens are definitely worth a visit. Just as the Popes have for hundreds of years, you can stroll the gardens and relax amidst the greenery, while taking in the perfect view of St. Peter's. 

Stand in the middle of this famous square in which the faithful gather to hear the Pope give audiences and celebrate mass.

As one of the most superb conceptions of its kind in civic architecture, St Peter’s Square is the masterpiece of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and makes a wonderful approach to one of the world’s most magnificent churches, St Peter's Basilica. An oval rather than an actual square, the piazza, laid out in 1656-67, is partially enclosed by two semi-circular colonnades on which stand 96 statues of saints and martyrs. At the center of the oval stands an 84-foot (26m) tall Egyptian obelisk of red granite.

Gaze up at the world's most famous ceiling, the masterpiece of Michelangelo.

This famous chapel inside the Vatican Museums is best known for Michelangelo's 16th-century painted ceiling of "The Creation of Adam" and "The Last Judgement" fresco that covers the whole altar wall of the chapel. The jaw-dropping sight is not to be missed, considered one of the top highlights of visiting the Vatican Museums and one of the top artistic wonders of the world. 

Book early if you want to see the Vatican Museum's monumental works of art from the greatest Italian artists of the Renaissance.

The Vatican Museum is actually 26 different museums, which include not only exhibitions but chapels, apartments, and other rooms of the Vatican palace, covering a huge range of fine and applied arts patronized by the popes. There's also an outstanding collection of ancient antiquities (including even the Emperor Nero's red stone bathtub), a gallery of hand-painted maps, and whole rooms turned into works of art. In addition to ancient and medieval works of art, you'll see masterpieces by the "who's who" of the Italian Renaissance, including Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, and Caravaggio. Other highlights include panels by the brilliant monk-artist Fra Angelico, works from the Venetian school, including Vavarini, and much, much more.  Booking in advance is highly recommended as otherwise you can wait for hours or not even be able to get in at all.

Visit Rome's most famous art gallery outside of the Vatican Museums.

The gallery started out as the private family collection of the powerful Borghese family, who poured much of their wealth into the patronage of the best Renaissance-era artists. It contains masterpieces not only by Bernini and Caravaggio, but also Raphael, Rubens, and Titian. Don't miss in particular Caravaggio's David with the Head of Goliath - the head is said to be a self-portrait. It's obligatory to book your visit in advance, you'll need a printable confirmation and a booking number.

See the most important collection in existence of Italian modern art.

The gallery was founded in 1883, although the current museum building was purpose-built for it in 1911. It displays paintings and sculptures of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and is the largest such collection in Italy. In addition to Italian artists such as Giorgio de Chirico and Giorgio Morandi, you'll find works from non-Italian artists including Degas, Monet, and Jackson Pollock.

Take a peak at a 16th-century cardinal's villa that was once considered one of the grandest residences in the city.

Built-in 1564-74 and bought by Cardinal Ferdinando de'Medici in 1576, who further enlarged it, the Medici Villa was considered one of the grandest residences in the city. Galileo was held under house arrest here by the Inquisition in 1630-3. In 1801, the villa was bought by Napoleon and the French Academy was transferred here where it has remained to this day, meaning it is closed to the general public. French students who win the Prix de Rome are sent to study here for periods of six months to two years at the expense of the French government. Well-known scholars include Berlioz, Debussy, and Ingres. It remains one of the most important cultural institutions in Europe and the most beautiful villas to have preserved its garden in the center of Rome.

Visit Rome's most famous art gallery outside of the Vatican Museums.

The gallery started out as the private family collection of the powerful Borghese family, who poured much of their wealth into the patronage of the best Renaissance-era artists. It contains masterpieces not only by Bernini and Caravaggio, but also Raphael, Rubens, and Titian. Don't miss in particular Caravaggio's David with the Head of Goliath - the head is said to be a self-portrait. It's obligatory to book your visit in advance, you'll need a printable confirmation and a booking number.

Discover the crypt and catacombs of an ancient Christian burial site estimated to hold half a million bodies.

The catacombs are the most important landmark along the ancient Appian Way route because they include the Crypt of the Popes, which contained the remains of nine popes buried between the 2nd and 4th centuries. In times of persecution, the catacombs also provided a secret place of worship for early Christians. There are five levels and roughly 12 miles (20km) of passageways. Over time, the catacombs were mostly forgotten as the relics of the popes and saints they contained had been moved to different churces of Rome. It was not until the 19th century that Italian architects rediscovered it.

Discover the crypt and catacombs of an ancient Christian burial site estimated to hold half a million bodies.

The catacombs are the most important landmark along the ancient Appian Way route because they include the Crypt of the Popes, which contained the remains of nine popes buried between the 2nd and 4th centuries. In times of persecution, the catacombs also provided a secret place of worship for early Christians. There are five levels and roughly 12 miles (20km) of passageways. Over time, the catacombs were mostly forgotten as the relics of the popes and saints they contained had been moved to different churces of Rome. It was not until the 19th century that Italian architects rediscovered it.

Discover the crypt and catacombs of an ancient Christian burial site estimated to hold half a million bodies.

The catacombs are the most important landmark along the ancient Appian Way route because they include the Crypt of the Popes, which contained the remains of nine popes buried between the 2nd and 4th centuries. In times of persecution, the catacombs also provided a secret place of worship for early Christians. There are five levels and roughly 12 miles (20km) of passageways. Over time, the catacombs were mostly forgotten as the relics of the popes and saints they contained had been moved to different churces of Rome. It was not until the 19th century that Italian architects rediscovered it.

Discover the crypt and catacombs of an ancient Christian burial site estimated to hold half a million bodies.

The catacombs are the most important landmark along the ancient Appian Way route because they include the Crypt of the Popes, which contained the remains of nine popes buried between the 2nd and 4th centuries. In times of persecution, the catacombs also provided a secret place of worship for early Christians. There are five levels and roughly 12 miles (20km) of passageways. Over time, the catacombs were mostly forgotten as the relics of the popes and saints they contained had been moved to different churces of Rome. It was not until the 19th century that Italian architects rediscovered it.

See the villa where Tuscany's first Grand Duke spent his childhood.

Villa di Castello is a 15th century Medici villa mostly famous as the residence where Duke Cosimo I de’Medici spent his childhood. Cosimo, who was later called the Father of the Nation, was the first member of the Medici political dynasty. Not surprisingly, Villa di Castello was his favourite villa and as an adult he expanded it with an extensive garden second only to the Boboli Gardens that included footpaths, fountains and the world famous Animal Grotto. The Villa is not accessible to the public since it has been the home of the prestigious Crusca Academy since 1583, a school dedicated to the study of the Italian language. You can, however, visit the splendid gardens without paying.

Experience an amazing view of Florence as you stroll the gardens of this Medici family villa.

This fortified hilltop mansion was purchased by the Medici in the 16th century and transformed into a princely residence by Cardinal Ferdinando. The villa is richly decorated in the interior and has a beautiful Italian garden that attracts visitors from all around the world. The courtyard that is decorated with frescoes by Cosimo Daddi is probably the most impressive part of the villa, while a series of rooms you can visit present a later style. Both the structured Italian garden and the villa are open to visitors and the admission is free, with guided visits.

See the villa where Tuscany's first Grand Duke spent his childhood.

Villa di Castello is a 15th century Medici villa mostly famous as the residence where Duke Cosimo I de’Medici spent his childhood. Cosimo, who was later called the Father of the Nation, was the first member of the Medici political dynasty. Not surprisingly, Villa di Castello was his favourite villa and as an adult he expanded it with an extensive garden second only to the Boboli Gardens that included footpaths, fountains and the world famous Animal Grotto. The Villa is not accessible to the public since it has been the home of the prestigious Crusca Academy since 1583, a school dedicated to the study of the Italian language. You can, however, visit the splendid gardens without paying.

Experience an amazing view of Florence as you stroll the gardens of this Medici family villa.

This fortified hilltop mansion was purchased by the Medici in the 16th century and transformed into a princely residence by Cardinal Ferdinando. The villa is richly decorated in the interior and has a beautiful Italian garden that attracts visitors from all around the world. The courtyard that is decorated with frescoes by Cosimo Daddi is probably the most impressive part of the villa, while a series of rooms you can visit present a later style. Both the structured Italian garden and the villa are open to visitors and the admission is free, with guided visits.

Make time to visit this gallery holding precious art and history from the Gothic era, when Siena's power and influence peaked.

This is the main state art museum of the city and includes a rich collection of masterpieces from the famous Sienese school of artists, which created mainly large, majestic altarpieces with golden decorations. The "gold" background paintings include a piece by Master of Tressa which marks the beginning of the golden age of Sienese painting.

Experience a riot of the senses as you walk into one of Tuscany's most colorful and remarkable cathedrals.

Siena's Duomo is a fabulous conglomeration of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, delineated by encircling bands of black and white marble. It is the earliest of all the great Tuscan cathedrals, having been mostly completed by 1263. Before you enter, take a moment to admire the marble facade and its remarkable statuary. Once inside, you can invest in the audio guide to get the most out of a visit. The standout artistic treasure is the pulpit with columns resting on the backs of alternating lions and lionesses. The Piccolomini Library was added on to the cathedral in 1495 by the future Pope Pius III, and is one of the loveliest rooms in all Italy thanks to its cycle of crystal-sharp, brilliantly colorful frescoes.

Stop and linger in one of the more glorious and satisfying urban spaces ever built.

With its remarkable fan shape and gentle slope, the Piazza del Campo is one of the more memorable and unique public squares in Europe. It has been heart of Siena since the mid-12th century when it was built on the site of a Roman marketplace. Cafes line the square offering coffee and aperitivo for the young and old alike who relax and take in the scene. The piazza is made doubly famous by the fact that it hosts the annual Palio horse race, a hotly-contested event which splits the city into competing factions. 

Make your way into the courtyard of this brick palace built in the 13th century and enter the Museo Civico, where you will marvel at the beautiful murals which adorn the interiors.

Dominating the Piazza del Campo, this 13th century palace and tower was built as a symbol of the independence and wealth of Siena by the Government of Nine (Governo dei Nove) - nine representatives of the people elected by the merchant class, not noble families. Looking at its façade from the Piazza del Campo, it's possible to immediately see its different periods of construction: on the lower level of the three-mullioned (triple-arched) windows the stone that was used and then later brick. The 400 steps to the top of the palace tower is no easy feat even for the fittest of travelers, but the view over the city and Piazza del Campo below make the narrow ascent worth it. Inside the palace courtyard you will find the entrance to the Museo Civico, a treasure trove of magnificent works of art which can be seen inside the palace. One of the most beautiful rooms in the palace is the Sala dei Nove, the Hall of the Nine, with the Allegories of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti where you can see the medieval city with its workshops and artisans. 

Check out a renaissance clock tower dating from 1499.

St Mark's Clocktower or the Moors' Clocktower is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Venice. Originally built during the 15th century, the clocktower features an elaborate clock that displays the signs of the Zodiac and the current phase of the moon. It played an essential part of daily life in historical Venice, with seafarers setting out from the Grand Canal replying on its time to decide when to head out to sea. You'll notice at the top of the tower, two bronze wild men. They ring the bell on the hour. One of the men is old, the other is young, representing the passing of time.

Take a fascinating journey through the history and art of Venice inside one of its most important museums.

Established in 1830, 33 years after Venice lost its independence, the Museo Correr depicts life and culture in Venice during its glory days of wealth and strength. Somewhat ironically given that the museum is dedicated to Venice's glory, the city's loss of independence made the collection possible, as many formerly wealthy Venetian families were forced to sell their treasures in the difficult conditions. Highlights in the museum include works by the famed Neoclassical sculptor Antonio Canova and a fine art collection that covers the work of many famous Venetian painters of the 13th to 16th centuries. Also fascinating are the collected antiquities from the city's long history, such as ship flags, nautical instruments, books, maps, and coins. 

Visit the magnificent monumental rooms of the Marciana Library, one of the oldest public libraries in Venice.

The Sansoviniana library, also referred to as National Marciana Library, is one of the biggest and most important libraries in Italy. Located in a beautiful Renaissance building opposite the Doge's Palace, it holds a number of valuable Greek and Latin manuscripts. The interior is richly decorated, with an impressive ceiling and a collection of Venetian paintings including works by Tintoretto and Veronese. 

Ascend this reconstructed cathedral bell tower for amazing views over St Marks Square, St Mark's Basilica and the Venetian lagoon.

Standing at 325 feet (99m) high, the Campanile, i.e. bell tower, of St. Mark's Basilica dominates the city's iconic square. Crowned by a spire that once acted as a lighthouse for Venice's naval ships, the cathedral tower was first built in the 10th century AD but underwent repeated repairs, reconstructions, and additions until reaching its current form in the 16th century. It was also a prominent part of the Venetian penal system as criminals were sometimes subjected to the Supplizio della Cheba (Torture of the Cage), which involved being incarcerated inside a crate that was hoisted up the south side of the tower to be left dangling there for several days or more in all weather. The tower collapsed in 1902, and what you see today is actually an exact replica (with the convenient addition of an elevator). The bell tower is now one of the most visited sights in Venice, offering some incredible panoramic views over the city and its canals. Lines are long, but a ticket can be reserved in advance for an extra few Euros.

Step inside Venice's most sacred and famous landmark and admire the glittering mosaics of the basilica's domes.

Important Note: Entry to the basilica itself is free, but there are huge crowds queuing up outside to see the interior at almost any time of year (waiting times are on average 45min), so we very strongly advise you to purchase a 'skip the line' ticket A private chapel for the use of the Doges, the rulers of Venice, was purpose-built on the site and consecrated in 832 to house the stolen relics of St Mark. Destroyed in a fire, a replica was soon built, but this was in turn superseded by a third structure in 1063-94; the Basilica of St Mark. Today, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice and a sight to behold for all visitors. The glittering mosaics, the golden altar behind St Mark's sarcophagus, its beautiful chapels, and treasury make it a sight you absolutely can not afford to miss.  The stunning golden mosaics lining the interior were begun in the 12th century and work continued on them over the intervening centuries, but much of the exterior and interior decoration is actually art and monuments looted from cities defeated by Venice in its many wars. Many trophies seem out of place in a church, such as the Four Horses of San Marco, which were taken from Constantinople where they had once stood in the Hippodrome (the chariot racing arena). But the Venetians felt that anything which glorified Venice also reflected the glory and intercession of their patron saint, and thus belonged in the Basilica.

Explore the staterooms and masterpieces inside this famous Gothic-style Palace.

Important Note: Entry lines can be very long. We suggest taking advantage of skip the line entry. As the name suggests, the Palace was the official residence of the Venetian rulers, the Doges, and the chief magistrates. The building was founded in the 9th century, but the present one dates from the 14th century. Tour its elaborate staterooms, grand halls and the 24-carat golden staircase before seeking out its collection of priceless masterpieces by Venetian artists including Titan, Veronese and Tintoretto. Be sure to spend some time in the most incredible room of all, the Chamber of the Great Council, the assembly hall where all Venetian patricians gathered to participate in the running of the city - up to 2,500 at any one time. There you will find the Doge's throne and the world's longest canvas painting in the world, Tintoretto's Il Paradiso.

Step inside this inconspicuous Gothic 15th-century church to discover some of Venice's most famous tombs and artwork.

The relatively austere brick Gothic Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari holds many surprises. It has the second tallest campanile in Venice after St Mark's, and contains numerous masterpieces of painting and sculpture by the likes of Titian, Bellini and Donatello, plus a number of important doges' tombs, as well as Titian's tomb. Titian's majestic painting of The Assumption in the sanctuary, with its dramatic movement and coloring, is the work that established Titian's reputation as one of the greatest of all Italian painters. Even if you feel you've seen too many churches already, this one is definitely worth visiting and we recommend investing in the audio guide to get the best out of your time here.

Visit this underrated art museum featuring works by the famed Renaissance artist Tintoretto.

Next door to the Frari, one of the most magnificent of Venice's charitable associations, The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is one of the most magnificent of Venice's charitable associations. The building was completed in 1560, and Tintoretto won a competition held to select an artist to decorate the interior. Over the next 23 years, he executed an incomparable series of paintings that cover the walls and ceilings. According to the writer Jan Morris, "no collection of sacred pictures is more overwhelming of impact than the immense series of Tintorettos in the Scuola [...] - often dark, often grandiose, often incomprehensible, but culminating in the huge masterpiece of the Crucifixion, which Velazquez humbly copied, and before which, to this day, you may still see strong men moved to tears."

Walk over or ride under the most famous bridge on the Grand Canal.

The 16th-century Rialto Bridge is the most iconic bridge in Venice. With a width of other 75 feet (23m) and span of over 100 feet (31m), the wide stone footbridge crosses over the Grand Canal and connects the San Marco and San Polo districts. It stands on the spot of an earlier wooden drawbridge which collapsed under the weight of a crowd gathered on it to watch a wedding procession. It took almost 150 years before the current Rialto bridge was built, this time in stone, and thus still stands as a symbol of the city. Surrounded by tourist shops and pricey restaurants, it sits on 12,000 wooden pilings and will be forever immortalised in millions of photographs as the backdrop to the classic Venetian photo shot, which captures the city's gondolas as they ferry lovers around the Grand Canal. While for many a gondola ride is a must-do experience in Venice, it's also possible to admire the bridge on foot. For a less-pricey way of seeing it from the water, you can always take the Number 1 local Vaporetto (water bus) and see the bridge as you pass underneath. 

Experience the sights, tastes, and smells of Venice's historic "Pescaria" fish market, as well as the fresh produce market.

Located close to the Rialto Bridge stands the Rialto Market, "the incomparable fish market of Venice, a glorious wet, colorful, high-smelling concourse of the sea, to which in the down hours fleets of barges bring the day's supply of sea-foods" (Jan Morris). Established well before the bridge was built, Venice's iconic market is a sight to behold, with colourful vegetable stalls and loud market vendors touting for business. It is a great spot for photographs and of course for a taste of the freshly caught fish with a host of appetising snacks on offer. Adjacent to the fish market you'll find a produce market, which is also important for a city which demands fresh ingredients for its cuisine. Keep in mind that the markets close at 1pm, and both markets are closed on Sundays (the fish market is also closed on Mondays).

Be sure not to miss this oft-overlooked historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Lined by notable buildings and historic palaces, this public square is often overlooked by tourists. That is a shame as it is not only one of the most historic spaces in the city, but also one of the most elegant. Lining the square you'll see a number of buildings intricately tied to the city and its historic governance, such as the courthouse and the Scala Family Palace. In the center of the square you'll discover a monument of Dante, who spent seven years in Verona during his exile from Florence. 

Stand in a first century Roman amphitheatre that is so well preserved that it hosts concerts even today.

From gladiators to grand summer operas, this magnificent first-century Roman Arena, sitting in the heart of the city, has seen it all. In its heyday (circa 130-1100 AD), the arena could seat 30,000 spectators and was one of the biggest of its kind in the world. These days it hosts one of the most famous opera festivals in the world between June and September. While there’s little to see inside except the impressive stonework, it is quite an experience to visit a Roman arena that is still a thriving concert venue. Indeed, for many, the arena is more memorable than even the ruins of the Colosseum in Rome, simply because it is so intact. Indeed, when stepping inside the arena, you can truly feel as if you are experiencing the same venue that specators visited two thousand years ago. If you climb to the top, you’ll also enjoy great city views.

Climb to the top of the 275 feet (84m) high medieval tower overlooking the heart of historic Verona.

The Torre dei Lamberti is Verona's tallest Medieval tower, built by the Lamberti family in 1172. The red-brick clock tower dominates the Piazza delle Erbe that sits below, and defines Verona's medieval skyline. As such it is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors heading to the top of the tower to admire the 360-degree panoramic views over the city and the 13th-century bells in the belfry. The Piazza delle Erbe, meanwhile, is one of the most beautiful squares in the city. What used to be a Roman forum and later a medieval marketplace, the square is now home to a number of cafes, souvenir stalls, and the Madonna Verona fountain, which dates back to the time of Roman rule.

Take a break in one of Verona's most beautiful and historic gardens.

A litle ways from the center you'll discover an enchanting and relaxing retreat, the Giardino Giusti. These gardens are named after the Giusti family, which first used the property for wool dyeing in the 15th century. In the 16th century, the now quite wealthy family decided to use part of the property for more refined purposes, and a formal Renaissance garden was laid out, with maze-like short hedge rows, cypress trees, fountains, and grottoes.

Visit the fictional setting of Shakespeare's tale of the star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet.

Shakespeare never set foot in Verona, yet his legendary tale lives on. The restored medieval building with its 1930s balcony opens into a courtyard of giggling teenagers and chattering tourists. Its bronze statue of Juliet is kept shiny by hundreds of thousands of hands who touch her right breast for good luck. Inside the house, period furniture and cinematic memorabilia are often overlooked by the hordes of tourists in line for the must-have "balcony" photograph.

Be sure not to miss this oft-overlooked historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Lined by notable buildings and historic palaces, this public square is often overlooked by tourists. That is a shame as it is not only one of the most historic spaces in the city, but also one of the most elegant. Lining the square you'll see a number of buildings intricately tied to the city and its historic governance, such as the courthouse and the Scala Family Palace. In the center of the square you'll discover a monument of Dante, who spent seven years in Verona during his exile from Florence.