Now the only thing left is to visit Italy, of course!
Vicki Baker
Italy is a dream destination offering spectacular cities, ancient ruins, wonderful museums, soaring mountains and beautiful natural scenery. Its unique location and history made it a crossroads of ideas, cultures and aesthetics for thousands of years. Few countries have preserved their ancient historic sites as well as Italy, which boasts 49 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a perfect testimony to the country’s incomparable historical and cultural treasures. You can experience all this with Road Runners as we travel with Insight Vacations to the “Best of Italy.”
During your 17-day journey you’ll explore the country’s iconic cities, cuisine, art, landscapes and cultural sites. Sip limoncella while bathing in the glow of the setting sun. Relax at a neighborhood trattoria with a ruby-red glass of wine. Feast on regional cuisine creating an unsurpassed culinary adventure. Stay at the most desirable hotels ideally located to the best of everything.
Start your journey in Rome, the Eternal city, one large archeological dig that continues to discover its 2,800 years of history. Explore the Vatican including behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase (normally off limits to the public) and the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. Walk through the Colosseum and Roman Forum where Romulus, Julius Caesar and Nero once ruled. Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain. Savor the magical taste of gelato.
Travel through glorious Tuscan landscapes to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Join a walking tour led by an historical art expert and visit the Academia Gallery to gain insight into Michelangelo’s monumental statue, David. Take in Giotto’s bell tower, the Gates of Paradise and the Piazza della Signoria.
Journey to the coastal town of Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. Then continue through the marshes of the Venetian Lagoon. Arrive in the colorful, canal-filled city of Venice with its romantic vibe. Visit St. Mark’s Square, view the Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs and board a gondola for a serenade through the canals.
Travel into the Hills of Umbria to Assisi, one of Italy’s most beautiful mountain towns. Step inside the Basilica of St. Francis where 13th Century frescoes by Giotto heralded a new era in Italian art. Continue your journey past Cassino to the cliff top town of Sorrento. Cruise to Isle of Capri and ride on the iconic open-top taxis. Take a funicular ride and explore the alleyways of Capri town.
Walk along the cobbled streets of Pompeii, preserved and frozen in time by layers of ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and get a glimpse into life at the peak of the Roman Empire. Then back to Rome to conclude your trip.
La dolce vita – the good life – is exactly what the “Best of Italy” is all about. Experience its stunning beauty, ancient ruins, amazing sculptures, exquisite art, local cuisine, fine wines and so much more on this treasure-packed tour. Reserve today by contacting Brandt Travel at 703-715-2910 or [email protected].
Travel Dates: October 11-27
Price: $2,935 per person plus air