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

Check-in and settle in. At 4:00 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 motorcoach 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 a captivating introduction, setting the stage for our upcoming explorations and deepening our understanding of this remarkable city's past. Rome, 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. 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. It witnessed triumphs, conquests, and significant architectural achievements, including the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the expansive network of aqueducts. Following our lecture, we will embark on an expert-led motorcoach excursion around Rome, during which we'll have the opportunity to witness the city's renowned landmarks, such as the Victor Emmanuel II Monument (the Vittoriano), Circus Maximus, Castel Sant'Angelo. The drive will culminate at the Colosseum, where we will have the chance to explore their exteriors and soak in their historical grandeur. 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. 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. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

At a local restaurant.

Following lunch, we will return by motorcoach to our hotel. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. 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.

Next on our itinerary is one of the most anticipated highlights of our program. We'll be transported by vans or a coach 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 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 motorcoach 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 after-hours visit does not include entry to St. Peter's Basilica.

At the hotel.

The day starts with us boarding a motorcoach, transporting us as close to the iconic Trevi Fountain as possible. From there, we will commence our walking field trip through the heart of Rome with a local expert. Together, we will explore three iconic landmarks: Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Our first destination is the Pantheon, a remarkable testament to ancient Rome's architectural prowess and the best-preserved monument of its kind. While historical accounts credit Emperor Hadrian for its commission in 118-125 CE, recent studies propose an earlier origin. The Pantheon's design achievements and original purpose continue to bewilder archaeologists, architects, and historians. Stepping inside, we will witness the play of natural light through the ceiling's oculus, illuminating the niches along the interior perimeter. Continuing our journey, we will find ourselves at the Fontana di Trevi, a grand masterpiece and the largest fountain in Rome, completed in 1743. This magnificent structure replaced previous versions that marked the terminus of one of the city's aqueducts. The fountain's architecture and the symbolic figures and gestures adorning it will be unveiled as we uncover the stories behind its creation. Our final stop will be the vibrant Piazza Navona, which holds a captivating history. This long oval piazza has since evolved into the quintessential Baroque setting, initially built by Emperor Domitian between 81-96 CE as a venue for track and field games. The buildings lining the perimeter mimic the footprint of ancient bleachers. Within this lively square, artists and performers bring life to its charming atmosphere. We will encounter Gian Lorenzo Bernini's awe-inspiring Fountain of the Four Rivers at its center and admire Francesco Borromini's architectural masterpiece, the church of St. Agnes, on the west side. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visits.

At a local restaurant.

Leaving the restaurant, we will proceed on foot to reach the nearest pick-up point for our motorcoach, which will then take 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 captivating visit, we will make our way to the designated motorcoach pick-up point, concluding our field trip and returning to the hotel. Experience the enchanting beauty of Rome from a unique perspective on the Tiber, accompanied by a delightful selection of wine and appetizers. Embrace the Italian tradition of aperitivo as you coast along the gentle waters, beholding the captivating sights of age-old bridges while listening to soothing music that complements the serene ambiance. 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 excursion.

At a local restaurant.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will embark on a comfortable motorcoach 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. Within their grounds lies a diverse flora tapestry, including various plants, vibrant blooms, and stately trees.

At a local restaurant.

Following our lunch, we will board our motorcoach to return to our hotel in Rome.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure 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. 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 an exploration of 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. 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 the rich history and artistic heritage of this captivating city.

At a local restaurant.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will convene in the hotel's meeting room, where an esteemed art historian will join us. This expert will provide a captivating 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 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 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 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.

On your own to sample the local fare.

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.

At a local restaurant.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

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, captivating 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 enjoy what you like.

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.

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 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 in the nearby Piazza Ognissanti. From there, we will board a motorcoach 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. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

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

In the hotel restaurant, guests with early departures will be provided with a convenient takeaway breakfast bag. The bag will include fresh fruit, a delicious roll or pastry, refreshing fruit juice, and bottled water. We hope you enjoy your meal and wish you a pleasant journey ahead. This marks the end of our program.

Transfer to airport. 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!