Welcome to Vantage Explorations' La Dolce Vita
Sail the legendary shores and secret hinterlands of the French and Italian rivieras, where sea meets story and hills cradle history. From waterfront villages to cliffside citadels, we hear tales of the wanderers and visionaries who shaped this stretch of Europe, tracing its transformation through ancient empires, ages of elegance, artistic awakenings, and cinematic flair. All wrapped in the enduring spirit of La Dolce Vita.
On arrival at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport and make your way to the arrival's hall to meet our Vantage Explorations representative and be transferred to our group hotel. Please visit our hospitality desk in the hotel lobby to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who will share information regarding your itinerary in Nice and pre-embarkation procedures. After receiving your Vantage Explorations cabin tags for your luggage, please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number to assist our crew in delivering your luggage to your cabin.
Relax into the ‘riviera vibe’ today, with the reminder of your day leisure.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Nice (or similar)
As one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic cities, Nice grants us a millionaire's access to the French Riviera today with our ‘Your Choice’ morning experiences offering a selection of excursions fit for a VIP. Indulge in a little boutique shopping, take a dip in ‘the Med’ or linger over a lunch of French treats this afternoon, before we gather for a welcome drink to celebrate the start of our journey.
To most travellers the name Promenade des Anglais is synonymous with the stretch of shoreline connecting Antibes to Nice. Named after the wealthy English upper class who placed Nice at the top of their Grand Tour bucket list, the Promenade des Anglais follows the Mediterranean coast past an array of Belle Epoque hotels, Art Deco apartments and umbrellaed beaches. At the limit of the ruling House of Savoy, the people of the riviera voted to join France in the 1860s rather than the new Kingdom of Italy, making this region a unique blend of both cultures. The unique light, relaxed lifestyle and extravagant parties attracted as many artists and literary elite of the 20th century as it had attracted aristocrats the century before. From Monet, Chaplin and Valentino in Antibes to Bonnard at Le Cannet, and Picasso – to just about everywhere – it became the place to be seen for the avant-garde. This pocket of sunshine and decadence still attracts artists, authors and actors, who paint its vistas, write its stories and come to Nice to be idolised.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Morning experience: Walking Nice’s Old Town
Our locally guided walk through the Old Town leads us along cobblestone streets, where our host regales us with tales of French delights, including the vibrant Cours Saleya. We’re introduced to the market itself, where locals gather each day to purchase fresh seasonal produce and other regional specialties, while the dazzling flower market has showcased everything from elaborate bouquets to single blooms since 1861. The Old Town buzzes with French flair, creating a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere where every shop tells a story of tradition, flavour and the warm hospitality of Nice.
Duration: 4 hours
Grade: Moderate
This experience includes approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking, with periods of standing in exposed areas throughout. Guests should be comfortable walking at a steady pace and able to keep up with the group for the duration of the experience. While the terrain is largely flat, the route follows cobbled streets and paths with curbs within a working market environment, which can be crowded. Food tastings are taken directly from market stalls and are typically enjoyed while standing. Dietary requirements cannot be guaranteed.
Option 2 – Morning experience: Picasso’s Antibes
Pablo Picasso, as vibrant, colourful and surreal as his works, is one of the most captivating figures in art history. Spanish by birth, his heart found a home on the French Riviera and its enchanting hinterland. The two months Picasso spent at Antibes’ Castle Grimaldi marks one of his most prolific periods, where painting and socialising became a daily rhythm. Amid the post-war exuberance, Picasso thrived in the Riviera’s lively atmosphere, surrounded by friends, admirers, and a devoted 23-year-old girlfriend, all of whom adored him.
Explore Picasso’s masterpieces at Castle Grimaldi, where his creativity flourished, before enjoying free time to wander the waterfront streets of Antibes. Browse its colourful shops, and admire the ancient city walls, or stroll the marina at Port Vauban, where luxury yachts gleam in true riviera style.
Duration: 4.25 hours
Grade: Leisurely
This locally guided visit includes approximately 2.5 km (1.6 miles). The route explores the historic centre of Antibes, where cobblestone streets, narrow pedestrian lanes, uneven paving and some inclines should be expected. A visit to the Picasso Museum in Château Grimaldi, encounters steps and uneven historic surfaces. Free time is included for independent exploration, which may involve additional walking.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Nice (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Welcome Reception (drinks and canapes)
Enjoy a taste of the French Riviera before embarking Douglas Mawson in Monaco. Whether exploring the artistic charm of Saint-Paul de Vence or delving into the history and grandeur of the Principality of Monaco, each experience offers a memorable introduction to the region. Late afternoon, we board our vessel and settle in for the journey ahead, celebrating the beginning of our voyage with a welcome dinner on board.
Option 1 – Full day experience: St Paul de Vence and Monaco
We depart Nice for a scenic drive to the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence. Our journey takes us inland to this traditional hilltop enclave, where the vibrant colours and artistic heritage of Picasso, Modigliani, Dufy, and Matisse run rich as its history. Marc Chagall, who returned from exile during World War II and lived in the village for 19 years, rests in the local cemetery, adding to the artistic prestige of the area. Here, our local guide will introduce you to tales of the renowned artists who were drawn to this quintessential Provençal village, before there’s time for you to explore at your own pace.
Early afternoon we return to the coast where Monaco welcomes us in true style, offering a gateway to this one-of-a-kind principality. The opulent attitude of the world’s second smallest country is its greatest attraction. Smaller than New York’s Central Park, Monaco’s 500-acre size, boasts the second highest GDP per capita in the world. Although the 9,500 native Monégasque are banned by law from gambling, it is the nation’s foreign-born citizens, with their oversized bank accounts, multi-million Euro apartments and high-roller habits who frequent the casinos, with over 30 per cent of the principality's residents listed as millionaires. They’ll be time to introduce yourself to Monaco prior to boarding Douglas Mawson late-afternoon.
Duration: 6.75 hours
Grade: Moderate
This experience includes approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking over the course of the visit to St Paul de Vence. The route follows the hill-top village's historic cobblestone streets and passageways, with uphill sections, moderate inclines, prolonged periods of standing, and extended sections of uneven surfaces. Expect busy, narrow lanes lined with galleries, cafés and shopfronts. Free time is included for independent exploration, which may involve additional walking. While the waterfront and marina areas are generally level, much of Monaco is built on the surrounding hillside, and additional inclines may be encountered away from the harbour. Lunch is not included, providing an opportunity to sample the region’s renowned cuisine and local specialities.
Option 2 – Half day experience: The Principality of Monaco
Our locally guided walking tour provides an insight into Monaco’s ruling family. While in Monaco filming To Catch a Thief, Grace Kelly met Prince Rainier III, and within a year she became Princess Grace, assuming 140 official titles. The principality continues to honour her memory, with her image, name and favourite places found throughout the country as reminders of her enduring legacy. Our guided walk visits Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the historic precinct known locally as ‘The Rock’, where the couple were married and now rest. We pause to watch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace before enjoying free time to explore the principality at your own pace. Mid-afternoon, we depart for Nice, where we settle in for a two-night stay.
Duration: 5.25 hours
Grade: Leisurely
This locally guided visit to Monaco's Royal Precinct includes approximately 2.5 km (1.6 miles) of walking. The route includes pedestrian streets and several flights of steps before utilising a combination of escalators and elevators. On occasion the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée may be closed for functions. Free time is included for independent exploration. While the waterfront and marina areas are generally level, much of Monaco is built on the surrounding hillside, and additional inclines may be encountered away from the harbour. Lunch is not included, providing an opportunity to sample the region’s renowned cuisine and local specialities.
We slip quietly into Italian waters with daybreak finding us at the ancient maritime master of Genoa. This naval powerhouse lies as a guardian of Italy’s northern coastline. The old port leads visitors through steep and narrow streets past medieval houses and churches which stand witness to the city’s maritime history. Above the port is Renaissance Genoa, where Genoese merchants built fine palaces which rivalled even Venice. Art lovers will delight in exploring one of Genoa’s palatial galleries, maritime enthusiasts can pay homage at Christopher Columbus’s birthplace and discover one of Europe’s premier maritime museums, while literature fans can wander the city that inspired iconic authors to put pen to paper.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences
Option 1 - Morning experience: Genoa’s Palatial Artworks
Genoa's Old Town gifts us a maze of streets lined with palaces, churches and fountains, each telling a tale of the city's opulent past. We visit one of the city's most celebrated palaces, renowned for its lavish décor and impressive art collection. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Genoa flourished as a wealthy maritime republic, attracting renowned Flemish artists such as Rubens and Van Dyck, who were commissioned by the city's influential merchant families. Listed among the UNESCO World Heritage palaces of Via Garibaldi, the magnificent 16th-century Musei di Strada Nuova offers a glimpse into Genoa's prosperous past. Once home to the city's elite, the palaces house an exceptional collection of artworks, including pieces by Caravaggio and Van Dyck. With more than 75 rooms to explore, our visit takes us through grand apartments, elegant courtyards and terraces offering sweeping views across the city and its historic centre.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Grade: Leisurely
Visiting Genoa's Musei di Strada Nuova, comprising Palazzo Rosso, Palazzo Bianco, and Palazzo Doria Tursi, this experience includes up to 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking through the historic city centre and museum complex. The route follows a combination of paved sidewalks on busy streets and uneven cobblestone surfaces. Additional walking and periods of standing across multiple levels are required to explore the collections and historic interiors. Some areas, including access to panoramic rooftop viewpoints, require the negotiation of steps, sweeping staircases, and polished marble surfaces. A good level of mobility and balance is required throughout the experience.
Option 2 - Morning experience: Genoa’s Maritime Legacy
Whilst sponsorship for the cultural arts was popular, the dominant pastime of the wealthy Genoese was exploration. After all, Christopher Columbus was born here. Genoa was a maritime giant, with much of its wealth due to ‘the new world’ and its trade of exotic wares. We start our day with a brief visit to Chrisopher Columbus’s House to learn more about the motivation behind the man, before we continue to the Galata Maritime Museum. Opened in 2004 “the Galata” is steeped in history. Three centuries earlier, the ground floor was the workshop where the galleys of the Republic of Genoa were built and the building was part of the Arsenal, the most important military and maritime complex of the city. We mingle amongst historical artifacts, works of art and life-size replicas of Genoese vessels as we discover the maritime trade which funded much of Genoa’s wealth. At the end of your tour, choose to linger longer at the museum and make your way to our own maritime wonder, Douglas Mawson, which is moored nearby, or return to the ship for lunch.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Grade: Leisurely
This experience includes up to 3.5 km (2.2 miles) of walking, with periods of standing throughout the tour while viewing exhibits. A visit to Casa di Colombo includes a short uphill approach along a historic lane, while access to the upper floor of the house is via a historic staircase. Galata Maritime Museum is spread across multiple levels and houses extensive maritime collections and exhibitions. The museum is located close to both the port and Genoa's historic centre, with access to the ship available throughout the day
Option 3 – Half day experience: Coastal Walk from Santa Margherita to Portofino
A long-standing refuge for artists, writers, actors and royalty, Liguria’s coastline blends understated glamour with timeless Mediterranean charm. Colourful fishing villages, elegant villas and waterfront trattorias cling to vine-covered cliffs, creating the distinctive character of the Italian Riviera.
Our walk begins in the elegant harbourfront town of Santa Margherita Ligure, where palm-lined promenades and pastel facades reflect relaxed sophistication. From here we make our way along a dramatic coastal path to Portofino, the region’s most celebrated village. Once a humble fishing hamlet, Portofino became a favourite retreat of aristocrats and international celebrities, while its picturesque harbour, colourful houses and tightly protected character have ensured it remains one of Italy’s most exclusive and enchanting destinations.
Duration: 5.75 hours
Grade: Active
This experience includes approximately 6.5 km (4 miles) of coastal walking between Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino, with optional additional walking during free time. While the terrain generally follows a popular path, the walk includes uneven surfaces, sections of steep ascent and descent, and prolonged exposure to the elements with limited shade available. The route utilises a short public ferry crossing en route to Genoa. A high level of fitness, mobility, and balance is required to complete the walk comfortably.
From La Spezia, we explore the enchanting Cinque Terre, where five picturesque villages cling to dramatic coastal cliffs and have inspired artists and travellers for generations. Discover them from the sea with visits to two of the villages or follow one of the region's celebrated walking trails between two villages before rejoining our private boat for a scenic return to La Spezia.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences
Option 1 – Full day experience: The Cinque Terre by Sea
Literally translated as ‘the five lands’, these villages span a series of coastal ravines and rugged ridges along a nine-mile stretch of the Ligurian coast. The steep coastal landscape of the Cinque Terre has afforded residents an idiosyncratic lifestyle for centuries, as they staved off pirates, fought off floods and resisted invasions. This UNESCO World Heritage Site retains its authentic determination, preserving individual dialects, traditional trades and communal ties. Almost inaccessible until the 1870s, the Cinque Terre represent a microcosm of Italian coastal life: sun, sea, fine food and wine, and a relaxed charm — guaranteed to put a smile on the face of any traveller.
We board our private ferry for a picturesque journey to these scenic coastal villages. As we glide along the shoreline, our local guide shares the rich history and character of each charming waterfront hamlet. Once ashore, there’s time to explore and soak up the atmosphere at your own pace. Owing to the unique character of the Cinque Terre villages, where dining options are generally limited to small local cafés and restaurants, lunch is not included today, allowing you the freedom to choose a venue that appeals to you. Villages visited may vary depending on local conditions.
While walking can be kept to a minimum by remaining near the harbours and village centres, those wishing to explore further may encounter steeper gradients and additional stairs typical of these dramatic hillside settlements.
Duration: 6.75 hours
Grade: Leisurely
This experience explores two of the Cinque Terre villages by private boat, with minimal walking required for embarkation and disembarkation. While walking can be kept to a minimum by remaining near the harbours and village centres, those wishing to explore further will encounter steep gradients and additional stairs typical of the hillside settlements. Village centres feature a mix of cobblestone lanes, historic stone pavements and waterfront squares. Lunch is not included, allowing for time to enjoy the local cafés and restaurants found throughout the villages.
Option 2 - Full day experience: The Cinque Terre Trail
Commencing our day in the Cinque Terre we transfer to Monterosso al Mare, the westernmost of the Cinque Terre villages, where a broad waterfront, colourful houses, and a lively harbour reflect the maritime character of the Ligurian coast.
From Monterosso, we follow the 4 km (2.5 mile) section of the famed Sentiero Azzurro to Vernazza. This moderately challenging walk follows a mixture of stone footpaths, stepped sections, and narrow trails that traverse the hillside above the sea. At times the route hugs the cliffs, with sweeping views across the Ligurian coastline, before passing through terraces of olives and vineyards that have shaped the landscape here for centuries.
Our walk ends in Vernazza, a fishing village clustered around a natural harbour. With its pastel-coloured buildings, narrow lanes, and small piazza overlooking the sea, it is an ideal place to pause and absorb the atmosphere for which the Cinque Terre is famous. Cruise back toward La Spezia, enjoying a different perspective of the villages along the way before returning to the ship. Note: Owing to the unique character of the Cinque Terre villages, where dining options are generally limited to small local cafés and restaurants, lunch is not included today. Villages visited may vary due to local conditions.
Duration: 8 hours
Grade: Active
This active walking experience includes a total of approximately 6-7 km (3.7-4.3 miles), including walking between two of the Cinque Terre villages with a high level of fitness, balance and mobility required. The route follows a busy and popular coastal trail, combining dirt paths, paved sections and uneven terrain, with periods of ascent and descent. A steady walking pace is maintained for the duration of the one-way hike, as there are no practical opportunities to shorten the route or turn back once underway. Within the villages, flat waterfront squares lead into steep gradients, steps and narrow lanes typical of historic hillside settlements. Busy local transport, possibly including rail and public ferry connections are used to access the trail. Lunch is not included, allowing time to enjoy the local cafés and restaurants found throughout the villages.
When Italian women give birth they use the phrase, dare alla luce, which literally means to ‘give to the light.’ It is no coincidence that the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, widely acknowledged as having dragged Europe from the dark days of the Middle Ages into the light, was closely associated with the Renaissance or ‘The Rebirth’. Rising from the ruins of the Roman Empire, Tuscany flourished into a wealthy trading and banking centre becoming Europe’s first capitalist state. The Duchy’s ruling family, the Medicis, sponsored its artistic scene with fervour. Artists transitioned from tradespeople to celebrities overnight, with da Vinci playing lute at their private parties and Michelangelo befriended by men who would become popes. The ruling classes commissioned works of art such as Donatello’s Penitent Magdalene, Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Raphael’s Madonna del Cardellino. Throughout the Duchy, art was showcased in piazzas, scattered throughout the streets and placed at the townhall steps. A form of propaganda and a sign of power for all to see.
A selection of ‘Italian classics’ highlight the wonders of Tuscany on our ‘Your Choice’ experiences today.
From Michelangelo to Leonardo di Vinci and Bonanno Pisano to Amerigo Vespucci, your day will be filled with their designs, artworks and architectural icons. We overnight in the port of Livorno to accommodate our shore excursions, with a farewell dinner held onboard to celebrate our Mediterranean voyage.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.
Option 1 – Full-day experience: San Gimignano with Tuscan Winery Lunch
When filmmakers look to Italy for locations, they need look no further than the Tuscan gem of San Gimignano. Tea with Mussolini, A Portrait of a Woman, Gladiator, Life is Beautiful, The English Patient and Under the Tuscan Sun all feature scenes shot here. San Gimignano itself is a work of art. The town’s medieval architecture serves as a backdrop for everything Tuscan, with artisan shopfronts displaying everything that is superb about Italian food, and cafes offering everything that is wonderous about Italian cuisine. Even its streets and cobblestone alleys wind in a way that makes every corner worthy of exploration. And did we mention its towers? It is the town’s 14 remaining medieval towers proudly rising above its skyline, which preserve the town’s feudal appearance and confirm San Gimignano as the superlative of Tuscan towns.
After building up a thirst exploring San Gimignano’s medieval streets, we venture into the Tuscan countryside to a traditional winery. Here, we enjoy a guided tasting of regional wines before sitting down to a relaxed lunch; Tuscan style, surrounded by sweeping vineyard views and the flavours that define this celebrated region.
Duration: 7.75 hours
Grade: Moderate
This experience includes approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking in San Gimignano. The historic centre features cobblestone streets, uneven medieval surfaces, inclines and steps throughout, including an approximately 500 m (1,640 ft) uphill approach and a flight of stairs with handrails when entering the town through one of its historic gates. As vineyards are often situated on gently sloping terrain, some areas may feature uneven ground requiring sure footing. Dietary requirements advised through the passenger portal will be forwarded to the lunch venue but cannot be guaranteed. Travellers must be 18 years of age or over to be served alcohol.
Option 2 – Full-day experience: The Rebirth of Florence
Accessible to all who visit, Florence’s works of art are scattered throughout its streets as statues, fountains, chapels and bell towers — all overlooked by Brunelleschi’s magnificent domed cathedral. Even the gelato is sculpted in Florence!
Carved from a single slab of marble, Michelangelo’s David is the ultimate Renaissance man, commissioned as the centrepiece for the city’s main square. Today it sits in its own gallery, but a replica at its original location tells its story almost as well. Our locally guided tour walks us through a day in the life of Renaissance Florence as we tread the streets where the early artists plied their trade, sought wealthy patrons and huddled in backstreet studios to learn from the masters. This introductory tour is followed by free time for you to enjoy the city at your will. Visit the markets of San Lorenzo to purchase souvenirs, leather goods and Florentine fashion. Explore the interior of the second largest cathedral in Europe: Florence Duomo. Visit a gallery or linger over an authentic Florentine dish at your own pace. Note: To maximise your time at leisure in Florence, lunch has not been included in this excursion.
Duration: 8 hours
Grade: Moderate
This experience includes approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking within Livorno and Florence railway stations, in addition to up to 3 km (1.5 miles) of walking during the locally guided tour of Florence. Walking is predominantly within exposed, bustling pedestrianised precincts, on paved streets and in historic squares. Stations, trains and Florence's historic centre can be crowded, and periods of standing and waiting should be expected. A good level of mobility and fitness is required for this excursion. Lunch is not included, providing the opportunity to sample Florence's renowned culinary treats.
We disembark in Livorno, with our morning's drive finding us at one of Umbria's hilltop gems: Orvieto. Perched dramatically atop a volcanic plateau, Orvieto is one of central Italy's most captivating hill towns, famed for its magnificent Gothic cathedral and enchanting medieval streets. Following an introductory guided walk, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Browse the artisan shops, admire the town's architectural treasures, or simply settle into a café or trattoria for lunch and sample the flavours of Umbria. Whether wandering its flower-filled lanes, discovering hidden corners rich in history, or taking in views across the surrounding countryside, Orvieto offers an irresistible blend of beauty, history and authentic Italian charm.
Our afternoon drive takes us to Rome where we have a relaxing evening ready to explore Italy’s capital tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast onboard
Scandalous and sanguine, Roman lifestyle swung from democratic to autocratic, slavery to liberation, paganism to Christianity. The Roman empire’s public relations machine flaunted its sovereignty with triumphant arches and fluted columns, monolithic mausoleums, statue-filled stairways and masterfully engineered temples. Enhanced by the wealth of the Catholic Church, the city added to its opulence and grandeur with baroque fountains, obelisk-centred piazzas and Christendom’s domed cathedrals. The story of ancient Rome’s insurmountable empire, its dramatic demise and the rise of the powerful Catholic Church is one of Europe’s most compelling stories.
A tour of Rome is a highlight of any visit to Italy, especially for those whose homeland isn’t blessed with such a wealth of history. Imperial relics rekindle the era when Rome’s population of one million surpassed any other city worldwide. Our local guides merge the city’s past and present through their stories on every street corner, along every alley and in every piazza.
Choose a shorter, comprehensive tour to see a slice of Roman life, or lace up your walking shoes and experience Rome from street level on a locally guided walking tour. In the afternoon, enjoy time for independent exploration, or join us to visit one of Christendom’s greatest Basilicas; St Peters, before we gather this evening for a Farewell reception.
Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences
Option 1 - Morning experience: Highlights of Rome
Rome reveals its tale as we tour its major sights on this morning experience. We encounter the Colosseum and Roman Forum, viewing them from a nearby terrace at the Capitoline Museum, while our guide inspires us with stories of Rome’s past. Gifted to the people of Rome as a museum to house the generous number of sculptures and statues left scattered throughout the city, the Capitoline Museum was the brainchild of Pope Sixtus IV. We have free time in the museum to browse its collection at our own pace while we piece together the city’s past through its numerous artworks, before our journey continues with a drive towards the Trevi Fountain. Surrounded by a pedestrian zone, a visit to the world’s most famous fountain offers not only a timeless photo opportunity but also the chance to ensure your return to Rome, just don’t forget to toss in a coin!
Afterwards, you may return to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon at your own pace, with the option to rejoin the group in mid-afternoon for a visit to St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Alternatively, continue exploring the treasures of the Eternal City independently. Note: some sights on this tour may be viewed only from the vehicle, depending on the local conditions on the day.
Duration: 4 hours
Grade: Moderate
This locally guided driving and walking tour includes approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking, with periods of standing throughout the visit. Access to and from the Trevi Fountain involves walking on sampietrini cobblestones and paved alleys with consistent inclines and exposed areas. The viewing precinct surrounding the fountain is often crowded. The air-conditioned Capitoline Museum is reached via Michelangelo's historic sloping ramp incorporating 20 shallow steps. Additional stairs are required to access some of the museum's upper-level galleries. A good level of mobility is recommended to fully enjoy this experience.
Option 2 – Morning experience: Roaming Rome
Lace up your walking shoes, slip on a hat and splash on sunscreen to join this comprehensive locally guided tour. Established in an era when few Romans owned transportation, the centre of historical Rome is ideal for walking. With every square foot offering a fascinating fact, we are spoiled for choice by the wealth of sites we experience. Architectural highlights include ancient landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Trajan’s Column, and the grand Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. Our locally guided walk brings us to the artistic masterpieces of the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon with our journey concluding at one of Rome’s most enchanting gathering places: Piazza Navona. Each site tells its own story, as our expert guides bring the past to life with tales of emperors, gladiators, plebeians, Renaissance artists, popes, and legionaries who once called Rome home.
Afterwards, you may return to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon at your own pace, with the option to rejoin the group in mid-afternoon for a visit to St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Duration: 4 hours
Grade: Moderate
This experience includes approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) of walking, with periods of standing at key sites in exposed areas and optional additional walking during free time. A steady pace is maintained throughout the tour, making it important to remain with the group at all times. The route follows a mixture of sampietrini cobblestones, narrow pavements alongside busy streets, and pedestrian precincts with some inclines, including crowded areas. Free time is provided in Piazza Navona. Entry to the Pantheon is subject to timed-ticket availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Afternoon experience: St Peters Basilica
We drive to the Vatican City for a guided visit to one of Christianity’s most iconic landmarks: St. Peter’s Basilica. Once the site of Emperor Nero’s brutal spectacles, the Vatican Hill was transformed into sacred ground by Constantine, Rome’s first Christian emperor, who declared it 'the hill of the martyrs.' Today, this sovereign city-state — granted independence from Italy in 1929 — houses the heart of the Catholic Church.
Towering above it all is St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in Christendom and a breathtaking example of Renaissance architecture. Designed in part by Michelangelo, who at age 72 created the majestic dome, the basilica rises above what is believed to be the tomb of St. Peter, the first apostle and first Pope. Admire Michelangelo’s moving Pietà, Bernini’s grand baldachin, and the sheer scale and spiritual gravitas of this revered site. Note: visitation times for St. Peters can be amended at short notice by Vatican authorities and entrance cannot always be guaranteed. Passengers joining a morning experience will have a short break at the hotel prior to transferring to the Vatican.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Grade: Leisurely
This experience includes approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) of walking, including inclines to access the Vatican coach park. Access to St Peters Basilica requires ascending 10-15 broad stone steps immediately before entering the church, with additional walking and periods of standing throughout the visit. Entry to Vatican City is subject to airport-style security screening for all visitors. Queues can be lengthy and may involve waiting in exposed outdoor areas. A strict dress code applies when entering St Peter's Basilica. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Accommodation: Starhotels Metropole Rome (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Reception (drinks and canapes)
After breakfast, check-out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
