Italian Extravaganza: Rome, Florence and Venice at Their Finest

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).

At a local restaurant.

Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

At the hotel.

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 an introduction, setting the stage for our upcoming explorations and deepening our understanding of this remarkable city's past. Rome, known as the Eternal City, has a rich and storied history of over 2,500 years. Founded in 753 BCE, Rome began as a small village and grew into a mighty empire that dominated the Mediterranean world. It witnessed the rise and fall of great civilizations, from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, leaving a lasting legacy in governance, engineering, art, and culture. Rome was the center of power and influence, producing iconic figures such as Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Constantine the Great. We'll begin our walking field trip from the hotel, heading to the iconic Piazza di Spagna to explore Rome's historical treasures with a local expert. Our journey will then take us to the magnificent Trevi Fountain, the largest and most famous fountain in Rome, completed in 1743. Here, we'll delve into its grand architecture and the fascinating stories behind its symbolic figures. From there, we'll proceed to the Pantheon, an architectural marvel and one of Rome's best-preserved ancient structures, where we'll marvel at the play of natural light through the oculus and explore its enduring design. Finally, we’ll go to Piazza Navona, a vibrant square that originated as a venue for ancient games during Emperor Domitian's reign. Today, it is renowned for its Baroque charm, featuring Gian Lorenzo Bernini's spectacular Fountain of the Four Rivers and Francesco Borromini's exquisite church of St. Agnes. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visits.

At a local restaurant.

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.

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.

At leisure.

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.

Next on our itinerary is one of the most anticipated highlights of our program. Around 6:15 a.m., we'll be transported by vans or a bus to the Vatican Museums for an exclusive private visit before the museum opens to the public. 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 serves as 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 pre-determined 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 at 9:15 p.m. 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 early-access visit does not include entry to St. Peter's Basilica.

On your own to sample the local fare.

We will depart from the hotel by bus or van to our next destination, the renowned Galleria Borghese, an opulent palace that once 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. 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 make our way to the designated bus pick-up point 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. We will return to the hotel after our field trip. Please refer to your Information Packet's "Program Notes" section for additional details on this visit.

On your own to sample the local fare.

Under the guidance of a knowledgeable sommelier, we will indulge in a sensory journey as we sample a diverse selection of regional varietals, each boasting distinctive flavors and characteristics at a wine tasting in the Prati neighborhood.

At the hotel.

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 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. Those with the energy and stamina are welcome to climb the 10-foot-high steps to reach the upper level. 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.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

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.

At a local restaurant.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

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 set out on foot to nearby 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.

At a local restaurant.

After lunch, we will proceed to the hotel check-in process and comfortably settle into our accommodations. Following a short break, we will embark on a leisurely neighborhood walk accompanied by our Group Leader. This informative excursion will allow us to familiarize ourselves with the local area and discover the locations of ATMs, pharmacies, and various stores and shops, ensuring our convenience during our stay. After our walk, we will convene in the hotel's meeting room, where an esteemed art historian will join us. This expert will provide an overview of medieval and Renaissance art, preparing us for our upcoming field trip to the renowned Galleria degli 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.

At a local restaurant.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will walk to the Accademia for a lecture 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 Galleria dell'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 enthralls 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 can 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.

At a local restaurant.

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, works by Titian, Michelangelo's poignant Holy Family, as well as a selection of Caravaggios 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.

On your own to sample the local fare.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

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 the passing of its final member, Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, 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, Tiziano, and Peter Paul Rubens.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

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. We'll meet at the appointed time in the nearby Piazza Trinita. From there, we will board a bus bound for a medieval village and agriturismo in Fiesole, 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.

At the agriturismo.

We will transfer back to our hotel by bus or van. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.

At the hotel.

As our time in Florence comes to a close, we will check out of the hotel, ensuring a seamless experience by conveniently depositing our bags in the lobby under the attentive supervision of our Group Leader. Our bags will be loaded onto a van that will transport them directly to our hotel in Venice, sparing us the hassle of handling them along the way. Departing in the mid-morning, we will go to the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station on foot, boarding a high-speed train bound for Venice. This swift ride will whisk us through the picturesque Italian landscapes, bringing us closer to the enchanting city of Venice. Arriving just in time for lunch, we'll board an ACTV vaporetto from Venezia Santa Lucia station to Rialto. From the vaporetto stop, we'll walk to our designated restaurant. Please be aware that the high volume of travelers on the ACTV vaporetti may result in crowded conditions, potentially limiting seating and unobstructed views of attractions along the route.

At a local restaurant.

Following our meal, we will walk to our hotel where we will check into our rooms, granting us a moment to refresh and unwind after our journey. Taking this time to rejuvenate, we can settle in and enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation. Around 4:00 p.m., we will gather in the hotel meeting room, where a local historian will provide us with their insights into the rich legacy of Venice. Through their expertise, we will better understand the city's history, culture, and distinctive character. Venice, the enchanting city built on a lagoon, boasts a history stretching over a thousand years. Founded in the 5th century, Venice originally served as a refuge for residents fleeing the fall of the Roman Empire. Over time, it evolved into a powerful maritime republic, emerging as a dominant force in Mediterranean trade during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Venice flourished as a hub of commerce and cultural exchange, amassing immeasurable wealth and influence. Its strategic location and innovative maritime technology enabled the Venetians to establish a vast trading empire, extending their reach across the Mediterranean and beyond. After our lecture, under the guidance of our Group Leader, we will set out on a delightful neighborhood walk, exploring the surroundings on foot. This immersive excursion will allow us to familiarize ourselves with essential amenities such as ATMs, pharmacies, local stores, and convenient vaporetto stops near our hotel. This insightful walk will ensure that we are well-acquainted with the essentials, facilitating a smooth and enjoyable experience during our stay in Venice. During our days in Venice, we will be provided with passes for the vaporetto, Venice's efficient and picturesque ACTV public transportation system via boats. These passes will grant us unlimited rides on the major routes, allowing us to effortlessly explore all six of the city's distinct districts, known as "sestieri.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

We have the privilege of embarking on a unique nighttime visit to St. Mark's Basilica, which is reserved solely for our Road Scholar group. Our experience begins with a guided exploration of this astounding Basilica, whose construction started in 1063 CE. The Basilica, dedicated to Venice's patron saint, St. Mark, has evolved into a stunning monument of religious and architectural significance, which must be witnessed firsthand to be fully appreciated. Its most striking elements include a range of mosaics from the 11th to the 19th centuries, beautifully rendered in many vibrant hues set against golden backdrops. Our journey also includes visiting the crypt nestled beneath sea level, where special lighting creates a mystical ambiance and illuminates the glittering mosaics installed in 1071 by Constantinopolitan artists. Following our visit, we'll travel via vaporetto from San Marco to the stop nearest to our hotel. Anyone who prefers to return by foot is welcome to do so.

At the hotel.

By vaporetto, we will venture towards the vibrant heart of Venice, the iconic Piazza San Marco. This expansive public space often called the "drawing room of Europe" during the 19th century, beckons us with its awe-inspiring grandeur. At the center of this splendid square, we will discover the resplendent Basilica of San Marco, adorned with intricate Byzantine-inspired mosaics and lavish decorations. Towering nearby, the majestic Campanile, a bell tower offering panoramic views of the city, beckons us to ascend and admire the breathtaking vistas. Adjacent to these awe-inspiring structures, the imposing Palazzo Ducale, the seat of Venetian political power, captivates with its intricate Gothic design. These iconic landmarks create an enchanting and unforgettable atmosphere within one of the most impressive public squares found anywhere in the world. Our visit begins with an expert-led exploration of the Doge's Palace. Within the palace's opulent walls, the Doges embellished the residential quarters and ceremonial chambers of the Great Council with extravagant artwork, including murals created by masters such as Tintoretto and Veronese. As we venture through the palace, we will witness the grandeur of spacious courtrooms and the hauntingly intriguing prisons connected by the famous Bridge of Sighs. This iconic bridge earned its name from the bittersweet sighs of prisoners who crossed it, knowing it marked their final glimpse of light and freedom before incarceration. Kindly note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visit. Please be aware that the high volume of travelers on the ACTV vaporetti may result in crowded conditions, potentially limiting seating and unobstructed views of attractions along the route.

On your own to sample local fare.

Afterward, we will embark on a delightful gondola ride, offering a unique perspective of the city as we gracefully glide along its enchanting canals. The history of Venetian gondolas is steeped in tradition and dates back centuries. With their distinctive design, these elegant, flat-bottomed boats have been an iconic symbol of Venice for generations. Originating from the canals and lagoons of the Venetian Republic, gondolas were once the primary mode of transportation in the city, serving as essential vessels for navigating the intricate waterways. Initially, gondolas were much simpler in design, but over time, they evolved into the graceful and ornate boats we recognize today. Skilled artisans meticulously handcrafted each gondola using traditional techniques and exquisite materials. From the unique iron prow, known as the "ferro," to the plush upholstered seating, every detail showcases the craftsmanship and artistry of Venetian boat builders. While gondolas are no longer the primary method of transportation in Venice, they continue to enchant visitors with their charm and romantic allure, offering an unforgettable experience that beautifully embodies the rich history and culture of this captivating city. The rest of the afternoon will be at your leisure, providing you with the freedom to explore Venice at your own pace. Whether you choose to return to the hotel via the convenient vaporetto or prefer to savor a walk through the narrow streets, the choice is yours to make.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

We will set out to attend a classical musical performance of a renowned local chamber orchestra. Venice played a pivotal role in the evolution of Baroque music during the 17th and 18th centuries, ushering in a new era of musical expression and innovation. In this period, the music shifted from the Renaissance's structured polyphony to a more emotional, dramatic, and ornate style that defined the Baroque period. Venice was the cradle for this transformation, with its churches, opera houses, and orchestras significantly contributing to this musical revolution. Iconic composers such as Antonio Vivaldi, born in Venice, became synonymous with the Baroque style. His works, including the famed "Four Seasons," are representative of Venice's rich Baroque tradition. Furthermore, the city's introduction of public opera houses during this era made music more accessible to the general populace, broadening the influence and reach of Baroque music.

At the hotel.

Setting off on foot from the hotel, we will journey by vaporetto to the Accademia stop, marking the start of our expert-led tour of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, one of the finest small modern art museums in Europe. Born into the wealthy Guggenheim family, Peggy Guggenheim (1898-1979), whose father tragically perished on the Titanic, became deeply immersed in the American expatriate society in Europe. As she mingled with the artists and intellectuals of the day in cities like Paris and London, she eventually became a notable art dealer and collector, providing crucial support to several artists, including Jackson Pollock, enabling them to gain public acclaim. Her travels led her back to Europe, where she settled in a Venetian palazzo along the Grand Canal, using it to exhibit her remarkable art collection. The museum today showcases an array of exemplary works by renowned artists like Georges Braque, Alexander Calder, Alberto Giacometti, René Magritte, Joan Miró, Piet Mondrian, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and many other trailblazers of modern art. Please be aware that the high volume of travelers on the ACTV vaporetti may result in crowded conditions, potentially limiting seating and unobstructed views of attractions along the route.

On your own to sample the local fare.

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.

At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

At the hotel (depending on departure times). For those with an early departure, a boxed continental breakfast will be provided. This concludes our program.

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!