Day 1. Arrive Rome
Tour departs: Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Lying in the heart of the Mediterranean, Italy is unrivaled for scenery, food, wine, cultural arts, relics and ruins from ancient history. The legacy of the Roman empire is experienced throughout Europe; within Italy itself, the diversity of regions, variety of traditions, and difference of lifestyles give an astonishing perspective on Italian influences throughout the world. Explore the culturally-rich cities of Rome and Florence with special "insider" local experts and guides for an in-depth look at Italy, past and present! Upon arrival in Rome, travel to central Italy's province of Umbria and the hilltop town of Orvieto; the view of vineyards blanketing the plain is breathtaking. Witness the magnificent façade of the Duomo, with its Renaissance-Gothic history, before traveling amidst the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany to the captivating city of Florence. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner tonight. Meals LD

Day 2. Discover Florence
One look at the exquisite architecture, and it is easy to see why Florence is called the "birthplace of Renaissance art and culture." Florence today is both a noted fashion capital as well as a center for ceramics, leather goods, specialty food items and wine. Join our local "insider" for tips on where to find the best bargains, a helpful explanation of some of the local customs, special exhibits at museums or galleries, etc. Our "insider" accompanies you to view landmark attractions in Florence; they include Santa Croce, Palazzo di Parte Guelfa, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria and Casa di Dante. Remainder of the day is spent at your leisure, putting to use this morning's information! Meals B

Day 3. Art and Cooking
Italy's artists led the way for three centuries in the advent of changing artistic styles; from Medieval art to stylized Renaissance and Mannerist art, Classical ideals were born. This and more is discussed by an art historian during a lecture this morning that precedes visits to Uffizi Galleria and Galleria dell'Accademia, where beloved works include Michelangelo's David; your afternoon is free, perhaps to continue at the museums. Join us for a great evening experiencing the pleasures of Tuscan cuisine at a cooking demonstration featuring fresh local ingredients enhanced by local olive oils, followed by dinner! Meals BD

Day 4. Hilltop Towns / Wine Tasting
Explore the beauty of Central Tuscany and the Chianti Classico region, characterized by vineyard-clad hills and small hilltop towns rich in medieval architecture. Journey to San Gimignano, featuring some of Italy's best-preserved medieval buildings; this wine-producing region is rich with wine estates and castles. Visit the renowned wine estate of Castello Vicchiomaggio, a historic castle overlooking the Greve Valley. A wine tasting of their celebrated products is followed by a Tuscan lunch high atop Chianti. Meals BL

Day 5. Explore Timeless Rome
Travel by train aboard the sleek Eurostar from Florence to Rome, enjoying tranquil winter landscapes often bathed in sunlight and blue, bright skies. Our Rome "insider" greets you upon arrival at your hotel, a renovated 19th-century "palazzo" in central Rome. Tips today include trendy restaurants, shopping, local specialties and cultural events. Embark on a sightseeing tour with our fabulous local guide who has lived in Rome for years. Meals BL

Day 6. Go "Inside" Vatican City
In addition to serving as the papal residence, "palaces" of the Vatican house some of the world's greatest works of art and architecture, including the Sistine Chapel; a tour includes the papal apartments. Lovely Santa Croce in Gerusalemme is a pilgrimage center; around 320 AD, Emperor Constantine converted his mother's private palace into this church, where it housed what were believed to be relics of the crucifixion of Christ brought back from Jerusalem. Following your visit, attend a private music recital by the accomplished pianist Daniela Morelli at the National Museum of Musical Instruments; remainder of the day is free to explore. Meals B

Day 7. Rome at Leisure
Spend the entire day as you please, as an "insider" expert exploring Rome! We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner at a charming trattoria-style restaurant in Trastevere! Meals BD

Day 8. Journey Home
Tour Ends: Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci Airport, Fiumicino, 2 1/2 hours prior to the departure of our selected flight(s). Persons departing at other times should secure their own individual transportation. Meals B