September 13, Friday, DAY 11: ROME – FLORENCE – TUSCAN WINERY VISIT
We check out of our hotel in Rome following breakfast, stopping at a winery to learn about Tuscan wine production. Before descending into Florence, we stop at Michelangelo Square to take pictures and see Florence from the overlook. Check into the hotel in Florence. Dinner is at leisure. Overnight in Florence. (B.L. Wine Tasting).
September 14, Saturday, DAY 12: FLORENCE
Our walking tour includes the highlights of Florence. We see the Duomo and the Baptistry Doors (outside views), the Accademia, where Michelangelo’s famous statue of David is, the Ponte Vecchio Bridge, and the Holy Cross Church. In the afternoon, explore Florence on your own. Overnight in Florence. (B)
September 15, Sunday, DAY 13: FLORENCE – BOLOGNA – PADUA
We depart Florence right after breakfast, driving to Bologna, the bread basket of Italy, where we visit St. Dominic Church and see the burial place of St. Dominic. Following an included lunch of local specialties, we drive to Padua. Dinner and overnight in the Padua area. (B.L.D)
September 16, Monday, DAY 14: VENICE
Following breakfast, we take a boat to the island of Venice (maximum 25 people per group) for a walking tour, visiting the Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark’s Cathedral. We have time at leisure to explore Venice and perhaps enjoy a gondola ride. Our farewell dinner is at a local restaurant in Padua. (B. Special dinner)
September 17, Tuesday, DAY 15: PADUA – FLIGHT – TO USA
This morning, we have breakfast and check out of the hotel. Our next stop is St. Anthony’s Basilica, followed by time for lunch and a visit to the Capella degli Scrovengi to see the incredible frescoes by Giotto. We transfer to Venice airport and our flight home. (B)
September 18, Wednesday, DAY 16: ARRIVAL IN USA