Rome

Capture the magic of Rome’s grandest fountain, The Trevi Fountain. Follow tradition and toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome and… don’t forget to make a wish.

The Roman Forum was the hub of Roman life in the 5th century BC. It is easy to conjure up a picture of the Roman Forum in its incredible former splendour (exterior view only).

The vast dome of St Peter’s Basilica is visible from nearly everywhere in the city. Impressive St Peter’s Square, with its fountains and semicircular colonnades crowned with statues of the saints, frames the Basilica’s entrance.

Take a moment from your busy sightseeing schedule to ‘refuel’ with an Italian-style lunch.

One of the grandest of all Rome’s monuments is the Colosseum. A place that once featured 76 numbered entrances, marble seats and subterranean passages. Admire this truly marvellous building of such epic proportions (exterior view only).

The Roman Forum was the religious and political focus of the city in Republican and Imperial times. This interesting ensemble of ancient ruins reflects 12 centuries of history, which created Roman civilisation (exterior view only).

Photograph Rome’s finest amphitheatre, the Colosseum. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD, this immense structure once held up to 55,000 people. Now standing empty and in ruin, echoes of its glorious past can still be heard (exterior view only).

The centre of the Roman Catholic faith, St Peter's Basilica is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. With its immense dome, lavishly decorated interior, impressive exterior and grand piazza, it truly is a sight to behold. Your guide will offer interesting facts about this incredible monument before you enter independently.

During the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore Rome independently from St Peter’s Square. Have a spot of lunch, do some shopping or perhaps visit another of Rome’s top attractions.

As you drive around Italy’s legendary capital, you’ll be intrigued by the stunning picture of its past and present, by the tranquil fountains that adorn the squares and streets, and by the sculptures and frescoes that cover every church.

Once in the city, have your camera ready. You’ll have a panoramic sightseeing tour passing by the Vatican walls, which outline the area of the Vatican City, the Lungotevere and the Ara Pacis.

Next, you’ll pass by Muro Torto (the Roman walls), Villa Borghese and enter the old town by Porta Pinciana. Pass through Via Vittorio Veneto, symbol of the Italian ‘dolce vita’, the white marble Victor Emmanuel Momument, the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine and the Circus Maximus.

A brief stop will be made for you to capture on film a building of epic proportions, The Colosseum; a photo that will no doubt become a precious memento of your visit to the eternal city of Rome.

As you walk through this treasure-filled city, the shadows of the past surround you. Images of the Roman Forum, the Colosseum and the Pantheon mingle with the splendour of the Vatican, the magic of the Trevi Fountain and the warmth of a hundred flower-filled piazzas.

On arrival in Rome, you will leave the coach for a full day of independent exploration. Wander through the shops or sample Italian cuisine at restaurants nearby. Venture further afield and discover as many of Rome’s treasures as your pace allows.

This is the perfect opportunity to tailor your day to suit your needs and make the most of your time in this wonderful city.

At a time specified by your escort, you’ll meet up and walk back to the coach park for the return drive to Civitavecchia.

Step inside the colossal Colosseum and imagine the glory of ancient Rome as you look over the vast arena. Pass by the Roman Forum, a once chaotic place with markets, temples and the Senate House. See the beautiful Trevi Fountain, Rome’s largest and most famous fountain.

The Vatican Museum houses one of the most impressive collections in the world. Admire the many works of art and visit the Sistine Chapel, dominated by the efforts of Michelangelo. The conception and execution of ‘Creation of the World’ and ‘Last Judgment’ are positively titanic.

Magnificent St Peter’s Basilica took over 100 years to build and features Renaissance and Baroque stylings. Resting on over 800 pillars and adorned with 44 altars, St Peter’s is by far the largest church in the world.

During your tour, you’ll have the chance to ‘refuel’ with an Italian-style lunch.

After the drive from Civitavecchia, you’ll be dropped near to the Trevi Fountain. Capture the magic of the city’s grandest fountain and one of the masterpieces of Baroque Rome.

Built in 1726, the Spanish Steps combine straight sections, curves and terraces to create one of the city’s most enchanting landmarks. You’ll have a short time to indulge in a spot of shopping or to photograph the nearby sights.

Pass by the Pantheon featuring immense columns and awe-inspiring hemispherical dome. Designed by the Emperor Hadrian this impressive temple is lined with shrines (Exterior view only).

Charming Piazza Navona displays an impressive array of architecture, including the Fontana dei Fiumi, Church of Sant’ Agnese and the Chiesa Nuova headquarters.

Lunch has not been included in this tour to allow maximum flexibility. You’ll have approximately 1½ hours’ free time at Piazza Navona to indulge in a spot of lunch or perhaps explore the surrounding areas. Pass through St Peter’s Square, with its intricate columns and imposing colonnades. Take in the vast beauty of St Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.

Take in the sights as you travel by motorway to the colourful Etruscan countryside, rich in vineyards and olive groves. You’ll stop at the quaint hill town of Tuscania. Your escort will show you the charming centre of this Etruscan settlement and describe how it developed in medieval times with magnificent walls, ramparts and churches. Alternatively you may wish to explore on your own.

You’ll have some free time in the small town of Tuscania to wander the narrow cobblestoned streets and absorb the old town atmosphere.

A highlight of your tour will be the visit to an ‘agriturismo’ farmhouse. Here, you’ll be welcomed by the owners and offered a chance to sample some of the organic regional specialities including wonderful olive oils and local wine. You’ll also have an opportunity to purchase some of these delicious homemade products.

After a 20 minute drive, you’ll arrive at the Aquafelix Water Park to begin your adventure exploring the variety of attractions.

Take a dip in the wave pool (waves roll approximately every 2 hours), raft the river in an inflatable tube, see the waterfalls and splash in the pool especially designed for children.

For the more adventurous, there is the Black Hole, Kamikaze and other thrilling water slides. If you’re feeling peckish you can grab a quick bite to eat at the self-service restaurant or relax at the bar for some liquid refreshment.

Just an hour from Civitavecchia you’ll find yourself in the ancient hillside town of Bracciano, dominated by the imposing Odescalchi Castle.

Odescalchi Castle was built in the second half of the 15th century and combines military architecture with a captivating elegance. The Castle is built around a central courtyard with views over the Bracciano Lake. See for yourself why Hollywood star Tom Cruise chose this fairytale location for his wedding in 2006. Following your visit to the Castle, enjoy some limited free time in Bracciano.

Afterwards, you’ll take a leisurely boat ride to soak up the wonderful sights and scenery. Formed within an ancient volcanic crater, the tranquil Bracciano Lake mirrors its beautiful surroundings. A refreshing drink will be offered before arriving on the opposite side of the Lake in Trevignano. Here, you’ll rejoin your coach for the return drive to Civitavecchia.

Your journey from Civitavecchia takes you through the beautiful Italian countryside, heading towards the Lazio region of central Italy and onto the ancient town of Viterbo.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy guided walking tour through the cobblestoned streets of Viterbo, passing Piazza del Plebiscito and Piazza del Gesύ, where some of the best preserved buildings can be seen. An inside visit of The Cathedral of Saint Lorenzo, one of the town’s most important monuments, will show you beautiful Romanesque style architecture.

Enjoy an exterior view of the imposing Pope’s Palace (Palazzi dei Papi). The Palace once served as the Pope’s country residence and is one of the main attractions of Viterbo. See for yourself why the pontiff chose this wonderful location as a countryside retreat.

Your walking tour ends at the Quartiere San Pellegrino District, where you’ll be given some free time for you to explore independently.

During your tour, a refreshing drink will be served.

The Vatican Museum houses one of the most impressive collections in the world. Admire the many works of art and visit the Sistine Chapel, dominated by the efforts of Michelangelo. The conception and execution of ‘Creation of the World’ and ‘Last Judgment’ are positively titanic.

Magnificent St Peter’s Basilica took over 100 years to build and features Renaissance and Baroque styles. Resting on over 800 pillars and adorned with 44 altars, St Peter’s is by far the largest church in the world.

You will have approximately 2½ hours of free time to explore Rome independently from St Peter’s Square. Have a spot of lunch, do some shopping or perhaps visit another of Rome’s top attractions.

Your first stop will be the ‘Mouth of Truth’, which according to legend, the hands of liars will be cut off when placed in the mouth of the world famous mask of marble.

Journey back to the days of the Gladiators with a visit to the incredible Colosseum. See the hundreds of rows of marble seats accommodating up to 55,000 spectators. Subterranean passageways lead to holding chambers for competitors, animals and equipment and the 76 numbered entrances to allowed access for the eager crowds.

A short stroll from the Colosseum leads you to the Roman Forum. See remains of the Senate buildings, where decisions affecting the entire Roman Empire took place. Pass by the old market town, where food stalls and brothels once stood. This area would have been a hive of activity following a Colosseum event.

From the ruins of the ancient city, you will walk to Piazza Navona. This charming square exudes a relaxed atmosphere and features beautiful architecture. You’ll have free time in which to explore the treasures of Rome independently.

Just an hour from Civitavecchia you’ll find yourself in the ancient hillside town of Bracciano, dominated by the imposing Odescalchi Castle.

Odescalchi Castle was built in the second half of the 15th century and combines military architecture with a captivating elegance. The Castle is built around a central courtyard with views over the Bracciano Lake. See for yourself why Hollywood star Tom Cruise chose this fairytale location for his wedding in 2006. Following your visit to the Castle, enjoy some limited free time in Bracciano.

Afterwards, you’ll take a leisurely boat ride to soak up the wonderful sights and scenery. Formed within an ancient volcanic crater, the tranquil Bracciano Lake mirrors its beautiful surroundings. A refreshing drink will be offered before arriving on the opposite side of the Lake in Trevignano. Here, you’ll rejoin your coach for the return drive to Civitavecchia.

After a short coach transfer from the port of Civitavecchia, you will follow the coastline for approximately 30 minutes until you enter one of the most important Etruscan centres of Lazio, Tarquinia.

Begin your 2 mile guided biking tour through the narrow streets of the historical centre of Tarquinia, which is still surrounded by its medieval walls. Discover some of the highlights of this town, including the St Francesco Church, 14th-century Town Hall Lodge, Cathedral and the 15th-century Palazzo dei Priori.

Visit a traditional Gelateria to discover the secrets of Italian ice cream making and enjoy a taste of traditional Italian ice cream.

Enjoy a short stop to browse for souvenirs in the shops located in the quaint streets of Tarquinia before your journey back to the pier.

Travel north from Civitavecchia through the Italian countryside to Orvieto, a land of steep hills and deep valleys with small villages boasting medieval castles and churches.

Once in Orvieto, you’ll enjoy approximately 3½ hours of free time to explore independently the historical centre of this city which is a real medieval gem.

Orvieto, situated on volcanic turf, stands guard over the vineyards below, which produces a dry white wine made from Trebbiano grapes. Orvieto’s highlight is the magnificent 13th century Duomo which lies in the heart of the city.

Wander around the city’s picturesque lanes and alleys, shop for Orvieto's famed ceramics, Pinocchio dolls, and souvenirs or relax in an outdoor café and take in the splendid medieval atmosphere.

Afterwards a short drive will bring you to the winery “Decugnano dei Barbi”, located on a hill facing the Orvieto cliff.

After a brief tour of the wine estate, including the old Etruscan caves used to produce the Spumante (sparkling wine), and the explanation of the processes, the grape varieties and the properties of the wines you will enjoy a sample of wines accompanied by snacks to complement the flavours and properties of each wine.

Travel north from Civitavecchia through the Italian countryside to Orvieto, a land of steep hills and deep valleys with small villages boasting medieval castles and churches.

Once in Orvieto, you’ll enjoy approximately 3½ hours of free time to explore independently the historical centre of this city which is a real medieval gem.

Orvieto, situated on volcanic turf, stands guard over the vineyards below, which produces a dry white wine made from Trebbiano grapes. Orvieto’s highlight is the magnificent 13th century Duomo which lies in the heart of the city.

Wander around the city’s picturesque lanes and alleys, shop for Orvieto's famed ceramics, Pinocchio dolls, and souvenirs or relax in an outdoor café and take in the splendid medieval atmosphere.

Afterwards a short drive will bring you to the winery “Decugnano dei Barbi”, located on a hill facing the Orvieto cliff.

After a brief tour of the wine estate, including the old Etruscan caves used to produce the Spumante (sparkling wine), and the explanation of the processes, the grape varieties and the properties of the wines you will enjoy a sample of wines accompanied by snacks to complement the flavours and properties of each wine.