Boarding your overnight flight, you're off on a journey that will remain in your heart forever!

Welcome to Bologna, Italy's city of food! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Bologna airport to our hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

We will check in to our beautiful resort located in the Emilia Romagna countryside. You will have some time to relax this afternoon or explore the grounds of your beautiful hotel.

Tonight, we'll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in a local restaurant.

This morning we will visit the new culinary attraction in Bologna: FICO - "Fabbrica Italiana Contadina", or Italian Farming factory. FICO is the largest agri-food park in the world - a one - stop location bringing together agriculture and food production, marketing and education. A million square feet of Italian delicacies, pasta, prosciutto, porchetta, gelato, wine and so much more!

Our tour will start from the outdoor fields to learn about the main Italian crops and the local animal breeds.

Next, your FICO guide will take you to the heart of FICO Eataly World: the 40 farming factories, where you will meet and speak with local artisans to learn about the process of marking traditional Italian food.

We will then start our cooking class where we will prepare a classic Lasagna and we will stuff our own tortellini, a popular type of pasta that has become a symbol of Bolognese cuisine! Our instructor will make sure that our tortellini will be good enough to earn praise from a local grandmother.

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own. Be sure to try one of Bologna's signature dishes: Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, ragu served over egg tagliatelle.

This morning we enjoy a city tour of Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Italy. To Italians, Bologna is known as the city of  "Two Towers", worldwide it's known as the city of lasagna, tagliatelle, tortellini, and Bolognese sauce. Good food must also boost brain power because Bologna is home to the oldest university in Europe!

This afternoon is yours to enjoy on your own. Why not visit the market stalls selling beans, tomatoes, and cheese. Have lunch at a trattoria serving fresh pasta with their signature ragu. This city is a food lover's paradise!

Tonight you're free to enjoy a night on your own for dinner. Don't forget to have some gelato after dinner.

This morning, we depart for Florence. We visit the Academy of Fine Arts where Michelangelo's proud David stands. Breathtaking is the only word to describe one's first view of Michelangelo's David. It's truly mind-blowing to think that Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man. All with just a hammer and a chisel!

We'll visit the majestic Duomo (complex) built in 1296, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors. We follow the medieval streets to the mist striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, Home of Santa Croce Church, Michelangelo's final resting place.

Tonight, we enjoy a Florentine dinner in our hotel with fine wines.

Today we travel back in time to the middle ages: Siena, a beautiful medieval city. Its historical center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit the famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. And the site of Siena’s famous horse race, the Palio di Siena.

We visit Siena’s town hall, Palazzo Pubblico, a beautiful gothic building which sits on Piazza del Campo by the bell tower, and the enchanting Duomo featuring the most ornate mosaic floor in all Italy. Siena’s grand Cathedral, which was built in the 1200s, is one of the finest examples of Italian Gothic architecture.

Next, we’ll visit our favorite local winery where we’ll enjoy a typical Tuscan lunch and wine tasting with the world’s most enchanting sommelier— our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi! Salute!

This evening we return to Florence for dinner on your own. Make sure to try Pappa al Pomodoro, a rustic Tuscan soup made with tomatoes, garlic, onions and, of course, Tuscan bread!

Today we drive to Perugia, a lively medieval hill town with historic buildings, peoplefilled squares, and modern shops. It is home to a university and a large Italian language school for foreigners. Etruscan remains are still visible in several places.

This afternoon, you will have time to do some shopping on your own or just relax before having dinner in our hotel.

Today we go to Spoleto where we will visit The Cathedral of Spoleto, which is dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. We also visit the Palazzo della Signoria, the octagonal Church of Santa Maria della Manna and the small Theater Caio Melisso.

Tonight you will have the chance to enjoy dinner on your own at one of Perugia’s lively restaurants.

Today we venture to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, and namesake of our new Pope. We visit the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the main church of the Franciscan order and an important pilgrimage site dedicated to St. Francis. Our day in Assisi also includes a visit to the crypt where the remains of Saint Francis are kept.

After this visit, we proceed to Rome where we will check in to our hotel.

Tonight we enjoy a fun dinner in the characteristic district of Trastevere, one of the centers of Roman nightlife, with wines fit for the Roman Gods! This lively area of tiny winding streets gives a taste of what one imagines Italy to be like, with cobblestone streets and music filled trattorias on every corner

Today is your chance to enjoy a hands-on cooking class in a unique underground space with a centuries-old brick vaulted ceiling in Rome. You will learn the secrets of traditional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Of course, once the meal is ready, you’ll get to enjoy it along with some great local wines.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy your final day in the Eternal City. Tonight, treat yourself to one of Rome’s fine restaurants for dinner. Wherever you decide to eat, be sure to try some of Rome’s specialties: supplì, a fried rice ball filled with ragù and mozzarella; Carciofi alla Romana, artichokes cooked Roman-style—braised, stuffed with herbs and sprinkled with lemon (only available in spring and fall); Spaghetti alla Carbonara, made with eggs, Pecorino cheese, guanciale or pancetta and black pepper.

This morning you board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. While we say arrivederci to Italy, we realize we’re taking a little piece of it back home with us.

Thanks for traveling with the Perillo family and please return soon.

Benvenuti in Italia! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Venice airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you. 

Venice is breathtaking with its misty lagoon and palaces seemingly floating on water. You can enjoy this afternoon sightseeing and getting lost. No one wants to get lost while visiting a city, but Venice is an exception! A maze of narrow alleys and canals, the best way to discover it is by wandering around with no pre-defined route.

This evening, at 6 o'clock, we'll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink in our hotel.

Enjoy dinner on your own tonight; nothing beats dining in a cozy Venetian restaurant enjoying local specialties and fine wines. Whichever place you decide to eat at, be sure to try the Squid Ink Risotto or Pasta!

This morning, we’ll meet our expert local guide for a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, the great Byzantine Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and an inside visit of the Doge’s Palace.

This afternoon you’ll have a chance to get lost in the city’s labyrinth of canals, bridges and tiny piazzas. Being a small island, it’s impossible to stray very far. But it won’t hurt to master the phrase “Dov’e’ Piazza San Marco?”

Tonight, instead of a traditional dinner, do as the Venetians do! Enjoy cichetti, Venetian –style tapas, served in various pubs all over Venice.

We’re off to Florence today with an inspiring stop along the way. Visitors to Padua are often surprised by a sense of deep spirituality. St. Anthony (patron Saint of lost objects) is interred here in the serene Basilica which dates back to the 1200s. Next on to Florence! Home of Dante, Boccaccio, Botticelli, Da Vinci,  and some say, the best gelato in Italy!

Back at the hotel, our tour director is happy to offer this evening’s restaurant suggestions. Perhaps, world famous Florentine steak? “Bistecca alla Fiorentina.”

Our day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, Home of Santa Croce Church, Michelangelo's final resting place.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David. Yes, it’s quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man—full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and a chisel.

You’ll be sure to find a perfect Florentine dinner spot tonight.

The bell tower of Pisa is among the most instantly recognizable structures on earth. Architects say it would be world famous even if it were perfectly straight. This morning we’ll see for ourselves, along with the beautiful Cathedral and Baptistery.

This afternoon, we’ll visit a typical Tuscan winery to learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and, most importantly—which glass to use! We’ll enjoy a light Tuscan dinner along with these fine wines. Cin-Cin!

We’ll return to Florence for some free time. Tonight, ask your tour director for a nearby spot to enjoy fresh Tuscan fare.

Our journey to Sorrento takes us through the rolling hills, scenic vineyards and postcard perfect vistas of Tuscany and Umbria. Soon we are in Sorrento, high on a beautiful plateau, greeted by the sapphire blue Gulf of Naples and majestic Mount Vesuvius.

When most Americans think of Italian food, they’re usually thinking of the dishes of Naples and Sorrento—spaghetti with tomato and basil, mozzarella and pizza are from this area.

This morning you’ll be taken to Capri, the world’s most enchanting, breathtaking island. Upon arrival, we take a private boat ride for a tour of the island. We cruise around the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s most iconic sight. These mythical towering rock formations, which jut out from the Mediterranean just off the  island’s coast, were formed over the years by erosion from ocean waves. Next, we visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Once we arrive back on Capri, we have free time to explore the island on our own or take advantage of a special optional excursion with your tour leader.

Tonight, still glowing from the sun, it’s time to enjoy another fine gastronomic experience.

Pompeii—an entire city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day almost 2,000 years ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape along with children and dogs.

Later this morning, we continue on to Rome, viewing the Bay of Naples on the way. 

A few hours later, we enter the gates of Rome and settle into our hotel.

This morning we visit Vatican City, headquarters for more than a billion Catholics worldwide. We begin at the Vatican Museum, a massive collection of sculptures, paintings and tapestries. Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the pope is elected. We enter in total silence, not wanting to disturb

Michelangelo’s famed frescoes, depicting stories from the Bible and the End of Times.

You’ll be fascinated by which of Michelangelo’s contemporaries he assigned to heaven and which to hell.

We’ll also visit St. Peter’s Basilica. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, and Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy soaring high above the main altar.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)

This afternoon, Rome is all yours to explore! Tonight, treat yourself to one of Rome’s fine restaurants for a fabulous dinner. May we suggest some Roman specialties Bucatini all’Amatriciana; Spaghetti alla Carbonara; Roasted lamb with garlic and rosemary; stuffed artichokes …is your appetite whet yet?

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a panoramic tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, Largo Argentina, the Jewish Ghetto and the Circus Maximus.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

This afternoon, Rome is all yours! Shop, fountain hop, explore to your heart’s content.

Tonight, treat yourself to one of Rome’s fine restaurants for a delizioso dinner!

This morning you board your flight home.

No tears. You’ll exchange emails with your new

friends and make plans for the future. How about

we all meet again on a Perillo tour to Hawaii!

Boarding your overnight flight, you're off on a journey that will remain etched in your memory forever!

Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

This afternoon, you will have free time to relax or better yet, explore the Eternal City. There's so much to see and do! Tonight, we meet our tour leader for a welcome drink (2019 tours), followed by dinner in our hotel.

Rome wasn't built in a day, and you certainly can't see it in one - but we'll try to show you as much as possible in the next few days!

This morning, it's a ten minute bus ride over to another country - Vatican City. With our expert local guide we'll tour the Vatican Museums - a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter's Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We'll see Michelangelo's Pieta, sculpted when he was just 24 years old, as well as Bernini's seven story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

Tonight we'll recount our explorations with good food and wines fit for an emperor at a local Roman restaurant.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter's Basilica is subject to availability based on any events planned by the Pope.)

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a panoramic tour of imperial Rome, including the Roman Forum, Largo Argentina (where Caesar was stabbed by Brutus) and the Circus Maximus.

Then we'll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight, we thought you'd enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour guide for a nearby recommendation, or venture out and explore the local restaurants in Rome! Be sure to try a Suppli, a quintessential Roman specialty: Fried ball of rice filled with tomato sauce, meat and melted mozzarella.

After a delicious breakfast in the hotel, we're off on the beautiful drive south to Pompeii! On the way, we approach the view of the Bay of Naples, birthplace of Caruso, Sophia Loren, Bel Canto and 'O Sole Mio.

We travel back to the Pompeii of 97 AD. A city perfectly preserved by the ash that rained down from Mt. Vesuvius. You'll see the tragic fossils of the people trying to escape with their children and dogs and streets, homes and stores that are all amazingly intact.

Tonight, we'll go to a great Neapolitan restaurant for dinner.

This morning, we board our speedy jetfoil to the world's most enchanting island - Capri. We'll enjoy a private boat tour around the island (weather permitting). We'll cruise by the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri's iconic rock formations which tower above the Mediterranean Sea.

Next, we visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Then we'll have free time to explore the island on our own, or take advantage of a special optional excursion with our tour leader.

Later this afternoon, we sail back in time to enjoy a relaxing dinner in our hotel.

This morning, after a delicious breakfast, we board a train to Florence! We'll arrive in time for a lunch at our hotel followed by a walking tour of the historical center of this most famous if all Renaissance cities!

We'll visit the majestic Duomo (complex) built in 1296, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, home of Santa Croce church, Michelangelo's final resting place.

"Breathtaking" is the only word to describe one's first view of Michelangelo's David. Yes, it's quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man - full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and a chisel!

Tonight, we enjoy a Florentine dinner in our hotel with fine wines.

The Grand Canal is just a short train ride away from Florence. Should we go?... SI! ANDIAMO A VENEZIA!

There is no normal life in Venice. Here, everything and everyone floats luxuriously with a sense of freedom, never tormented by traffic or even the sound of a horn.

Your guide will show you all the sights - St. Mark's Square, the Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Just around the corner from St. Mark's Square, we'll enjoy a special Venetian lunch in a town renowned for its seafood specialties.

This evening we return to Florence for dinner on your own. Make sure to try Pappa al Pomodoro, a rustic Tuscan soup made with tomotoes, garlic, onions and of course, Tuscan bread!

Our last day together will be at our favorite winery! You'll visit the Tenuta Torciano winery in Tuscany and meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world's most enchanting sommelier. You'll learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and most importantly - which glass to use! We'll enjoy a fabulous lunch and wine tastng. Salute! Enjoy the remainder of the day and evening on your own, perhaps shopping for last miniute souvenirs!

This morning board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. Unless, of course, you have chosen to extend your stay! A warm Grazie for traveling with the Perillo family and please return soon.

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on the adventure of a lifetime!

Welcome to sunny Naples, often called an open-air museum, due to its many historic statues and monuments. We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Naples airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

There will be time to relax this afternoon before our welcome drink and dinner with fine wines at our hotel.

This morning, after a delicious breakfast, we take a hydrofoil from Naples to the world’s most enchanting island—Capri. We’ll enjoy a private tour around the island (weather permitting). We’ll cruise by the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s iconic rock formations which tower above the Mediterranean Sea.

Next, we visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Then we’ll have free time to explore the island on our own or take advantage of a special optional excursion with our tour leader.

Later this afternoon, we return to Naples for some leisure time and for dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for a few places to eat traditional food that a local Neapolitan would approve of! Be sure to try the world famous Neapolitan pizza Margherita, or the classic pizza alla Napoletana, with anchovies, olives, capers,

and oregano. Other local pizzeria specialties include the calzoni and panzerotti: deep-fried mozzarella pockets. My mouth is watering!

This morning, we’re off on the beautiful drive to Pompeii. We’ll travel back in time to the fateful year of 79 AD. A city perfectly preserved by the ash that rained down from Mt. Vesuvius, you’ll see the fossils of people attempting to escape with their children and dogs. You’ll be amazed to see the streets, homes and stores, all perfectly intact.

All this walking will make us hungry! We’ll have some free time before we return to our hotel in Naples.

Tonight, you’ll have another opportunity to try local Neapolitan dishes for dinner on your own. Don’t leave Naples without trying their spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti and clams).

For those of you familiar with “pasta fazool“, here’s the place to try it! The correct name is Pasta e fagioli and this classic dish can be found throughout Southern Italy, but the Neapolitan version is made with hot pepper and crushed mixed pasta.

This morning en route to Bari in the region of Puglia, we’ll drive through the Region of Basilicata and stop in Matera, known as La Città Sotterranea (the Subterranean City).

Matera has gained international fame for its Ancient town, the Sassi di Matera (stones of Matera) where Mel Gibson filmed The Passion of the Christ. The Sassi originated in a prehistoric settlement, and these dwellings are thought to be among the first human settlements in Europe. We will enjoy a walking tour to see these Sassi (stones) which began as natural caves and grottoes, and over the centuries were adapted as homes.

We continue on to Bari, the capital of the region of Puglia, for dinner and overnight in the hotel.

*Please wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces today*

This morning, we enjoy a walking tour of Bari. We visit the Basilica of San Nicola, which holds worldwide significance, and is a popular pilgrimage for Catholics across Europe. The Basilica holds some of St. Nicholas’ remains and is one of the most important places of worship in the world, where Catholic and Orthodox blend together.

The Quartiere delle Orecchiette area is lined with women seated outside their homes making orecchiette and cavatelli by hand, a culinary tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Time seems to have stopped here; you will see tables of fresh pasta, children playing in the street, laundry hanging in the sun. Visiting this old town and its people is an unforgettable experience... something not to be missed!

Next, we travel to another beautiful area of Puglia, Alberobello, famous for its fairytale-like fourteenth-century trulli—characteristic whitewashed conical roofed houses. These beehiveshaped homes, white-tipped as if dusted by snow, are made from local limestone. Some of the trulli are now used for stores, restaurants, and lodging, but many are still inhabited by locals.

We stop in a local Masseria, an ancient fortified farmhouse, for a typical Pugliese lunch. The Masserie are as much a symbol of Puglia as are the endless olive groves and trulli.

After lunch, we continue our journey to Lecce, the main city in the Salento Peninsula, in the heel of Italy’s boot. Enjoy an afternoon tour around the 300-year-old cobblestone streets of the city.

We continue on to charming Lecce, often referred to as the Florence of the South, for dinner and overnight in the hotel.

Lecce, in the center of Italy’s heel, is very well known for its baroque architecture. This morning’s guided tour includes a visit to the amazing Dome square, one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe and one of the rare examples of an enclosed square—it gives one the impression of entering a stage.

We also visit the fascinating Basilica of the Holy Cross la Basilica di Santa Croce; the sight of this church will surely amaze you!

Next, we visit the Roman Amphitheatre—a glimpse into the history of Lecce, that takes you on a journey back through the centuries.

The remainder of the day/evening is yours to enjoy on your own. There are many restaurants that serve amazing, traditional recipes. A popular local dish to try is: Puccia: Sagne ‘ncannulate: long, spiraled pasta that resembles the twisting and swirling architecture in Lecce—served up, as per tradition, with a tomato and cheese sauce; and, as a snack, don’t forget some Taralli: Italy’s answer to the pretzel. Small and circular type of crackers… especially alongside a glass of Pugliese wine!

This morning we drive South to Calabria to board our ferry across the Straits of Messina to Sicily! We’ll have a few rest stops along the way as well as a lunch break. Upon arrival, we’ll check in to our lovely hotel and have time to relax before dinner in our hotel tonight.

*This will be a long day so please remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes*

After this morning’s tour, you’ll know why Taormina is known as the “Jewel of Italy”. Its winding streets and secluded gardens are truly enchanting. The snow covered volcano, Mt. Etna, serves as a dramatic backdrop to the well-preserved Greek and Roman outdoor theaters we’ll be visiting.

This afternoon is all yours to enjoy! Why not stroll the medieval streets lined with interesting little shops, take a dip in the hotel pool or treat yourselves to one of Sicily’s greatest invention— the Cannoli! It’s like heaven in your mouth!

Tonight, we enjoy dinner and great vino Siciliano at a fine local restaurant.

This morning, you’ll meet one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Mt. Etna is in an almost constant state of eruption. But don’t worry—we’ll keep a safe distance!

The fertile volcanic soil supports extensive agriculture, orchards and vineyards, So let’s visit a local winery for a tour, wine tasting and light lunch!

Tonight, you can enjoy dinner on your own. Have you tried pesce spada yet? Swordfish is Sicily’s favorite seafood.

We’re off to Palermo, stopping along the way for a fascinating visit of Cefalù, a coastal town in Northern Sicily. We enjoy a guided visit of the famous Norman cathedral, a twelfth-century fortress-like structure with elaborate Byzantine mosaics and soaring twin towers. The Cathedral has a founding legend: Norman King Roger II made a vow to God during a dangerous sailing trip from Southern Italy. His life was in great danger and he promised to build a wonderful church in the place where he would have landed, if he survived. Roger did in fact survive, disembarked in Cefalù and kept his promise and built a cathedral there.

We’ll have some free time to walk around this charming town, shop and have lunch on our own before heading to Palermo.

After an exciting and educational day, a delicious dinner is served in our hotel.

This morning we explore Palermo, the fascinating capital city. We’ll visit the Royal Palace which General George Patton turned into his headquarters in 1943. We’ll also take in the Palace of the Normans, the Palatine Chapel, the Cathedral of Palermo and Monreale, as well as a few other highlights.

This afternoon you will be free to enjoy on your own and perhaps buy some last minute gifts to take home with you. Tonight, enjoy dinner on the final evening on your own. Be sure to end your dinner with a delicious dessert that originated in Palermo: the Cassata Siciliana.

This morning we head to the Palermo airport for our flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. While we say arrivederci to Italy, we realize we’re taking a little piece of it back home with us….and maybe some wine too!

Arrivederci Bella Sicilia!

Boarding your overnight flight, you're off to Italy on the adventure of a lifetime!

Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perilo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

Enjoy some free time this afternoon - take a walk on Via Veneto, have a gelato or maybe do some shopping. Tonight, we'll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

This morning, it's a ten minute bus ride over to another country - Vatican City. With our expert local guide we'll tour the Vatican Museums - a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, renowned for its Renaissance art, especially the ceiling which was painted by Michelangelo betwen 1508 and 1512. This room, which attracts more than five million visitors each year, is also where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter's Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We'll see Michelangelo's Pieta, sculpted when he was just 24 years old, as well as Bernini's seven story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter's Basilica is subject to availability based on any events planned by the Pope.)

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a panoramic tour of imperial Rome, including the Roman Forum, Largo Argentina (where Caesar was stabbed by Brutus) and the Circus Maximus.

Then we'll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Later this afternoon we'll explore some of the oldest areas of Rome - the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere.

There's been a Jewish community in Rome since the 2nd Century BC. It was Pope Paul IV who ordered them into a walled-off section of town in 1555. But in 1870, the Papal States lost control of the area and the Jews were free to leave the Ghetto!

Tonight, we thought you'd enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for a recommendation, or venture out and explore the lively restaurants of Rome! Be sure to try Pasta cacao e pepe - pasta in a creamy olive oil, pecorino cheese and black pepper sauce - a specialty in Rome.

Don't forget the gelato after dinner! You're doing a lot of walking on this tour so it's a well-deserved treat!

After a hearty breakfast, we enjoy a ride through the Tuscan countryside on our way to Florence. Our deluxe motorcoach navigates the rolling hills, scenic vineyards and postcard-perfect vistas of Tuscany. Your tour leader will give you some useful information about the region while you relax and enjoy the scenery.

We check into our beautiful hotel, Villa Olmi. This villa, located just 15 minutes from the historic center of Florence, is a peaceful oasis of Tuscan tranquility. Tonight, we enjoy a Florentine dinner with local wines at our hotel.

Florence - the fountainhead of the Renaissance, awaits our inspection! Our day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo built in 1296, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned 'Gates of Paradise' doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, Home of Santa Croce Church, where Michelangelo is buried.

'Breathtaking' is the only word to describe one's first view of Michelangelo's David. Yes, it's quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man - full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and chisel!

2018 Departures: Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own at a local Florentine restaurant. Be sure to try Ribollita, one of Florence's most delicious specialties. This hearty soup is made from cannellini beans, vegetables, red cabbage and chunks of pane (bread).

2019 Departures: Next we enjoy a typical Tuscan lunch. The remainder of this day and evening is yours to do as you please!

After breakfast (colazione) we drive to Lucca, also known as "the city of 100 churches." The churches are protected against Medieval invasions with huge, fortified walls. We visit the famous Duomo, the Amphitheater and the impressive Church of San Frediano.

This afternoon we visit Pisa! The "Piazza dei Miracoli" (Square of Miracles) is recognized as one of the main centers for medieval art in the world, with 4 great religious edifices: the Cathedral, the Campanile (the famous leaning Tower), the Baptistery and the Camposanto.

We'll enter the Cathedral dedicated to St. Mary of the Assumption. The big candelabrum near the altar is where Galileo Galilei tested his laws of pendulum physics!

Next we enter the marble Baptistery, the largest in all of Italy. Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the building took 211 years to construct. The accoustics are amazing... you can whisper to a person 30 feet away and they'll hear you clearly.

2018 Departures: Tonight, we enjoy dinner out with a typical Tuscan meal including Bistecca Fiorentina (Florentine steak)!

2019 Departures: Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own at a local Florentine restaurant. Be sure to try Ribollita, one of Florence's most delicious specialties. This hearty soup is made from cannelloni beans, vegetables, red cabbage and chunks of bread (pane).

Today we travel back in time to medieval Siena - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit the famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's greatest medieval squares and the site of the famous Palio horse race.

We'll visit Siena's town hall, Palazzo Pubblico, and the enchanting Duomo (cathedral) featuring the most ornate mosaic floor in all of Italy.

Next, we drive through the beautiful rolling hills of Chianti, for a most unique winery visit! Meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world's most enchanting and hilarious sommelier. Enjoy a wine tasting and early dinner at the Tenuta Torciano. Salute!

This morning you board your flight home arriving in the USA the same day. Grazie mille for traveling with the Perillo Family.