Day 1 - ARRIVE ROME.
Welcome to the 'Eternal City' of Rome - once the hub of a vast empire that spread from Britain to the Persian Gulf and from Africa to Germany. The airport shuttle service to your Insight tour hotel departs from Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 09.30, 12.30, 15.30 & 18.45 hours. Later, you are invited to join your fellow guests and Tour Director for a Welcome Drink. Hotel: Cicerone

Day 2 - ROME SIGHTSEEING.
A local guide introduces you to the grandeur of the city today. Your tour begins at St. Peter's Basilica, mother church of the Catholic faith and built around the tomb of St Peter. Once inside, marvel at Michelangelo's early masterpiece - the 'Pieta', as well as the splendid dome, completed after his death. Now cross the River Tiber to visit one of the wonders of ancient Rome - the Colosseum, where gladiators (and sometimes martyrs) fought to the death against armed warriors or wild beasts. Your tour concludes with a view over the remains of the Roman Forum, once the bustling centre of commerce, law and religion. This afternoon is free to shop, relax on the Via Veneto or continue sightseeing. Perhaps visit the Catacombs, the Pantheon, or the Spanish Steps? This evening, why not enjoy a tour of the many squares and magnificent fountains of the city? (BB)

Day 3 - ROME - FLORENCE.
Following breakfast, take a short drive to the independent Vatican State. Here, with a local guide, visit the superb Vatican Museums - treasure house of the Catholic faith with vast collections of ancient and Renaissance art, gathered by Popes over the ages. Marvel at Raphael's brilliant work as you continue into the Sistine Chapel, glorious masterpiece of Michelangelo's fresco skills. Leaving Rome, ascend the Apennine Mountains to the hilltop town of Orvieto, blessed with a wealth of historic buildings. On arrival see the impressive cathedral, its breathtaking facade is considered to be among Italy's finest! Then, a beautiful drive takes you through the Tuscan vineyards to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views over Florence - a great photo opportunity! Now on to your hotel. Hotel: Croce Di Malta (BB, D)

Day 4 – FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING.
On your guided walking tour visit the Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo's original statue of David. Then continue to the Cathedral, dedicated to St. Mary of the Flowers, to admire Giotto's bell tower and the Gates of Paradise on the Baptistery. Next stop is Signoria Square, political heart of the city and still an open air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Your final visit is at the Basilica of Santa Croce which houses the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo, followed by a leather work demonstration. The rest of the day is at leisure. (BB)

Day 5 – FLORENCE - VENICE
This morning travel to the fascinating and historic town of Verona, setting for one of history's saddest love stories. Walk with your Tour Director through the old narrow streets to view Juliet's balcony and the well-preserved Roman Arena (still used for open-air opera and concert performances). Then continue to the romantic city of Venice - a step back in time to the 16th century! Hotel: Principe / Amadeus (BB, D)

Day 6 – VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Venice - a living treasure! Appreciate her splendor as you cruise by the Church of the Redentore and Palladio's San Giorgio Maggiore, to St Mark's Square. Once one of the greatest trading centers of the world, importing goods especially from the Orient, the city's wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St Mark's Basilica. Admire the Doges' Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs before a visit to one of the glass showrooms for a demonstration of traditional craftsmanship, unchanged for centuries. Now time to relax and watch the gondolas as they slip beneath the bridges. Don't miss the chance to try the delicious seafood, freshly caught in the lagoon! (BB)

Day 7 – VENICE - ROME.
Today follow the smooth highway across the fertile valley of the river Po before climbing high into the Apennine mountains. Continuing southwards, reach the valley of the river Tiber and follow its course back to Rome. Tonight, drive to a local restaurant for a lively Highlight Dinner including wine and entertainment! Hotel: Sheraton Roma (BB, HD)

Day 8 – ROME.
Sadly, your tour comes to an end after breakfast today. Airport shuttle service from the hotel arrives at Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 07.00 & 09.30 hours. (BB)