Rome & the Amalfi Coast

Spend the day exploring a Mediterranean paradise on the sparkling Bay of Naples. Embark from the port of Salerno and delight in a cruise to the wonderful Isle of Capri. Sail past the hill towns along the Amalfi Coast, passing colorful homes, lush gardens, and architectural marvels. Take the funicular up to Capri village. Here, you’ll take a guided walking tour where you’ll get to the picturesque hilltop botanical gardens, Giardini di Augusto. Head to one of the floral-lined terraces to see enchanting panorama views, including the spectacular Faraglioni rocks. Then, savor lunch in a local restaurant – your opportunity to enjoy a Caprese salad! Spend some free time to soak in Capri’s charm. Browse elegant designer shops or sip a coffee in the piazza and simply watch the world go by. A special ride along the funicular takes you back toward the Marina Grande to board your boat for the return to the mainland.

The Vatican Museums are not only home to one of the world’s greatest collections of art, but also to the world-famous Sistine Chapel. Priceless artifacts from ancient Egypt, Etruscan Italy, and cultures around the world are preserved in the Vatican’s palaces, galleries, halls, and rooms. Follow a local expert guide on a three hour, in-depth visit through this vast collection. Highlights include 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. His brilliant Last Judgment, which rests on the altar wall, was a topic of controversy for centuries. Other walls feature paintings by Pietro Perugino, Sandro Botticelli, Cosimo Rosselli, and Domenico Ghirlandaio. Your final stop will be at St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most important churches in Christendom, and until recently, the largest in the world.

Follow your expert guide on an engaging tour of Rome’s more epicurean side. Your culinary journey takes place in the bohemian Trastevere district, where medieval architecture meets ivy-clung houses and the lively chatter from the many eateries sprinkled through the neighborhood echoes off the cobblestone streets. Partake in the local tradition of aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) before tasting your way through Rome’s most representative street food, such as supplì (fried rice balls) and pastas. Top off your culinary exploration with a taste of artisanal gelato and learn how to tell a good one from a factory-made, ensuring you never eat a bad one again!