Best of Italy

On a compelling tour of its most famous antiquities, discover why Rome has been known through the ages as the “Eternal City.” The city’s ancient remnants serve as an undisputed testimony to its former glory as the seat of an empire. Hear the distant echoes of 45,000 cheering spectators when you visit the Colosseum, the site of legendary gladiator contests. Walk up the steps like millions have before you, marveling at the ingenuity and scale of this world-famous structure. Your tour continues with a guided visit to the Campidoglio – Rome’s Capitol Hill. Once a temple dedicated to Jupiter, the area was redesigned by Michelangelo during the Renaissance. From the Campidoglio, admire expansive views of the Roman Forum, the social space that once was the beating heart of the Empire.

In the early hours of the morning, journey to the world’s smallest independent State for a “pre-opening” visit of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel. Your visit begins in the Pinecone Courtyard, a space that juxtaposes antique marble statuary and contemporary bronze sculptures. Here enjoy an al fresco* buffet breakfast prepared with fresh produce from the Papal Farm in Castel Gandolfo. In the tranquility of the early morning, enjoy your coffee and take in the view over the cupola of St. Peter’s Basilica, designed by Michelangelo. Then, 1 hour ahead of the Vatican Museums’ opening to the general public, enjoy the ability to roam freely through one of the world’s greatest Art collections. With the aid of an audio guide, you’ll be able to independently explore the Museums’ highlights, such as the Gallery of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries and of course, a visit to the Sistine Chapel. The chapel’s famous ceiling frescoes took Michelangelo four years to complete, while his brilliant Last Judgment, resting on the altar wall, was a topic of controversy for centuries.