Art Capitals of Italy Tour

Today begins at perhaps Florence's most famous spot, as you take in the green, red and white marble that decorates the front and the towering dome of brilliant Brunelleschi that captivates the eyes as it looks upon the famed Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo of Florence.

You can marvel at the incredible size of the interior and in the amazing construction techniques that helped make the cathedral’s dome a marvel of Renaissance engineering. Then climb to the top of Giotto’s brightly-colored bell tower to get a view over the dome of the Duomo, the city of Florence, and the brilliant stretch of Tuscany beyond. The tour of Florence continues in the halls of the city’s famed Accademia. Make your way past the masterworks of lesser lights and find Michelangelo's statue of David.

Make your way east across the spectacular scenery of Northern Italy as you turn to the shores of the Adriatic, bound for the City of Canals, romantic and resplendent Venice. While on your way to Venice, you’ll stop by the charming town of Padua. You’ll can visit the Romanesque masterpiece that is the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, a major pilgrimage site for Christians seeking to appeal to the patron saint of lost things.

Reach the shores of the sea and wind your path along the waterways of enchanting Venice, your final stop in this unforgettable excursion through the great art capitals of Italy. Cruise the Grand Canal and take in the sites on board a private water taxi, or catch a seat on the edge of the Piazza San Marco before reaching your accommodations for the evening.

Make your way around the major sites of the city, taking in the impressive churches and the imposing political buildings that reflect the past might and glory. Marvel at the stunning mosaics and the opulent architecture of Saint Mark’s Basilica, one of the most iconic sites in the city and the home to a wide array of impressive art and important artifacts. Visit the Doge’s Palace right next door and learn about the history of the Venetian city-state, ruled by the Doge for centuries.

Head across the lagoon to visit some of the lesser-known parts of Venice, the home to highly skilled artists and artisans that are producing some of the finest wares in the country. Visit a glassblower or glass-making factory on the famous shores of Murano – where you can take home a relic of this most famous of Venetian trades – or make your way through the brightly-colored homes of Burano, where you’ll find intricate, delicate, and beautiful lace.

Today sees you leaving Venice, returning to your home country or continuing on to another tour extension. Whether this is your last day in Italy or just one more moment on your fantastic vacation, you’re sure to remember the past few days with incredible fondness, reveling in the stories and memories that you made in the heart of this captivating country.