italy, history and faith
italy, history and faith
$5,699
USD
$5,699 USD | 13 days
Tab 1
Day
Location
Details
September18
NEWARK
Day 1 ~ Friday
Depart Newark on United Airlines flying non-stop to Naples, departing at 8:35pm
Depart Newark on United Airlines flying non-stop to Naples, departing at 8:35pm
September19
NAPLES
Day 2 ~ Saturday
Arrive in Naples at 11:40am where you will be met by tour Tour Escort who will be with you for the full duration of the tour. Transfer to your hotel with the balance of the day free in Naples. Dinner and overnight in Naples at the Palazzo Esedra Hotel
Arrive in Naples at 11:40am where you will be met by tour Tour Escort who will be with you for the full duration of the tour. Transfer to your hotel with the balance of the day free in Naples. Dinner and overnight in Naples at the Palazzo Esedra Hotel
September20
NAPLES / POMPEII
Day 3 ~ Sunday
We depart after breakfast to Pompeii to a tour of the excavations. Entry via Porta Marina and see the Forum (City Center) which was the political, religious and social heart of the city. See the Temple of Jupiter and view of Mount Vesuvius. See the Stabian Roman baths which was the social gatherings. Explore the Large Theatre of Pompeii. Return back to Naples for a city orientation tour for the afternoon. Dinner and overnight in Naples.
We depart after breakfast to Pompeii to a tour of the excavations. Entry via Porta Marina and see the Forum (City Center) which was the political, religious and social heart of the city. See the Temple of Jupiter and view of Mount Vesuvius. See the Stabian Roman baths which was the social gatherings. Explore the Large Theatre of Pompeii. Return back to Naples for a city orientation tour for the afternoon. Dinner and overnight in Naples.
September21
NAPLES / ROME
Day 4 ~ Monday
After breakfast we have 3.5-hour drive to Rome with rest stops on the way. Arriving in the afternoon you will check into the hotel and the balance of the day will be at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the Adesso Hotel, Rome.
After breakfast we have 3.5-hour drive to Rome with rest stops on the way. Arriving in the afternoon you will check into the hotel and the balance of the day will be at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the Adesso Hotel, Rome.
September22
ROME
Day 5 ~ Tuesday
We have a half day tour of Rome starting at the Colosseum. Even before entering, the sheer scale of the Colosseum dominates the scene, and your guide uses this moment to set the stage—explaining how this massive amphitheatre, built nearly 2,000 years ago, could hold over 50,000 spectators. Walking along the inner corridors, you begin to understand how efficiently crowds once moved through the building. Your guide brings the space to life with vivid descriptions of gladiator contests, wild animal hunts, and staged spectacles that lasted for hours. Exit the Colosseum and slowly make your way toward the nearby ruins of the Roman Forum. The transition is striking: from a single monumental structure to a vast, open landscape of columns, arches, and broken temples. As you walk along the ancient Via Sacra—the main road of Rome—you begin to see how this area once functioned as the political, religious, and commercial center of the empire. Continue to Palatine Hill. At the top, you enter what was once the most exclusive neighborhood in ancient Rome—the home of emperors. Here, among the ruins of vast palaces, your guide shifts the narrative from public life to private power, describing how rulers lived, governed, and displayed their wealth. Return to the hotel in the afternoon for the balance of the day at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Rome.
We have a half day tour of Rome starting at the Colosseum. Even before entering, the sheer scale of the Colosseum dominates the scene, and your guide uses this moment to set the stage—explaining how this massive amphitheatre, built nearly 2,000 years ago, could hold over 50,000 spectators. Walking along the inner corridors, you begin to understand how efficiently crowds once moved through the building. Your guide brings the space to life with vivid descriptions of gladiator contests, wild animal hunts, and staged spectacles that lasted for hours. Exit the Colosseum and slowly make your way toward the nearby ruins of the Roman Forum. The transition is striking: from a single monumental structure to a vast, open landscape of columns, arches, and broken temples. As you walk along the ancient Via Sacra—the main road of Rome—you begin to see how this area once functioned as the political, religious, and commercial center of the empire. Continue to Palatine Hill. At the top, you enter what was once the most exclusive neighborhood in ancient Rome—the home of emperors. Here, among the ruins of vast palaces, your guide shifts the narrative from public life to private power, describing how rulers lived, governed, and displayed their wealth. Return to the hotel in the afternoon for the balance of the day at leisure. Dinner and overnight in Rome.
September23
ROME
Day 6 ~ Wednesday
Start your day just outside the historic center of Rome, where the quieter, older layers of the city begin to reveal themselves. Make your way to the Catacombs of Domitilla in the morning. Descend into one of the oldest and most extensive underground burial networks in Rome, you’ll step into a cool, dimly lit maze of tunnels lined with early Christian frescoes and tombs. continuing your journey along the legendary Appian Way, also known as the Appia Antica. This ancient road, once one of the most important arteries of the Roman Empire, offers a completely different perspective of Rome. For the next two hours, you can follow a guided city tour or rent a bike to trace this historic route. As you move along the worn basalt stones, you’ll pass crumbling aqueducts, umbrella pines, and scattered ruins that feel frozen in time. The afternoon will be free to explore Rome. Dinner and overnight in Rome
Start your day just outside the historic center of Rome, where the quieter, older layers of the city begin to reveal themselves. Make your way to the Catacombs of Domitilla in the morning. Descend into one of the oldest and most extensive underground burial networks in Rome, you’ll step into a cool, dimly lit maze of tunnels lined with early Christian frescoes and tombs. continuing your journey along the legendary Appian Way, also known as the Appia Antica. This ancient road, once one of the most important arteries of the Roman Empire, offers a completely different perspective of Rome. For the next two hours, you can follow a guided city tour or rent a bike to trace this historic route. As you move along the worn basalt stones, you’ll pass crumbling aqueducts, umbrella pines, and scattered ruins that feel frozen in time. The afternoon will be free to explore Rome. Dinner and overnight in Rome
September24
VATICAN AREA
Day 7 ~ Thursday
Begin your day early in Rome by heading straight to the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica. Step into the vast interior and take time to absorb the scale and artistry—Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s baldachin, and the immense dome overhead all reward a slower, unhurried visit. If you’re up for it, climbing partway up to the dome offers a memorable perspective over Vatican City and the rooftops of Rome. From there, make your way to the nearby Vatican Museums, where you’ll transition from the spiritual grandeur of the basilica into one of the world’s richest collections of art and history. Moving through the galleries, you’ll pass classical sculptures, intricate tapestries, and elaborately painted rooms, each space building anticipation for the final highlight. Eventually, you’ll enter the Sistine Chapel, where the atmosphere shifts to quiet reverence. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s ceiling and “The Last Judgment,” it’s worth pausing to take in the detail and scale that define this iconic space. Later, continue your day with a visit to Domus Artis, where the atmosphere becomes more immersive and reflective. Unlike the monumental scale of the Vatican, this experience offers a closer, more interpretive encounter with art, often blending history, performance, and storytelling in a way that feels personal and engaging. The contrast works beautifully: after witnessing some of the most famous masterpieces in the world, you end your day with something more atmospheric and contemporary, allowing you to connect with Rome’s artistic spirit from a different perspective. Balance of the day is free. Dinner and overnight in Rome.
Begin your day early in Rome by heading straight to the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica. Step into the vast interior and take time to absorb the scale and artistry—Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s baldachin, and the immense dome overhead all reward a slower, unhurried visit. If you’re up for it, climbing partway up to the dome offers a memorable perspective over Vatican City and the rooftops of Rome. From there, make your way to the nearby Vatican Museums, where you’ll transition from the spiritual grandeur of the basilica into one of the world’s richest collections of art and history. Moving through the galleries, you’ll pass classical sculptures, intricate tapestries, and elaborately painted rooms, each space building anticipation for the final highlight. Eventually, you’ll enter the Sistine Chapel, where the atmosphere shifts to quiet reverence. Standing beneath Michelangelo’s ceiling and “The Last Judgment,” it’s worth pausing to take in the detail and scale that define this iconic space. Later, continue your day with a visit to Domus Artis, where the atmosphere becomes more immersive and reflective. Unlike the monumental scale of the Vatican, this experience offers a closer, more interpretive encounter with art, often blending history, performance, and storytelling in a way that feels personal and engaging. The contrast works beautifully: after witnessing some of the most famous masterpieces in the world, you end your day with something more atmospheric and contemporary, allowing you to connect with Rome’s artistic spirit from a different perspective. Balance of the day is free. Dinner and overnight in Rome.
September25
ROME
Day 8 ~ Friday
Today is a full day of leisure on your last day in Rome to explore. Dinner and overnight in Rome.
Today is a full day of leisure on your last day in Rome to explore. Dinner and overnight in Rome.
September26
ORVIETO / FLORENCE
Day 9 ~ Saturday
After breakfast we leave Rome and drive 2 hours to the town of Orvieto. An orientation tour of Orvieto is best experienced slowly, letting the town reveal itself as you move through its dramatic hilltop setting. You begin by arriving at the base of the volcanic tufa cliff, where the town rises almost theatrically above the surrounding Umbrian countryside. Stepping into the old town, the atmosphere immediately shifts. Narrow cobblestone streets wind between honey-colored stone buildings. You will have free time to explore the town before departing to Florence. The drive to Florence is approximately 2.5 hours. On arrival in Florence you will check-in to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Nil Hotel, Florence.
After breakfast we leave Rome and drive 2 hours to the town of Orvieto. An orientation tour of Orvieto is best experienced slowly, letting the town reveal itself as you move through its dramatic hilltop setting. You begin by arriving at the base of the volcanic tufa cliff, where the town rises almost theatrically above the surrounding Umbrian countryside. Stepping into the old town, the atmosphere immediately shifts. Narrow cobblestone streets wind between honey-colored stone buildings. You will have free time to explore the town before departing to Florence. The drive to Florence is approximately 2.5 hours. On arrival in Florence you will check-in to the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Nil Hotel, Florence.
September27
FLORENCE
Day 10 ~ Sunday
This morning we start our half day of touring at the Uffizi Gallery. As you move through its corridors, the evolution of Renaissance art unfolds around you, with masterpieces by Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Large windows along the gallery also offer occasional glimpses of the Arno River and the city’s rooftops, grounding the art in the very place where it was created. After leaving the museum, a short walk through Florence’s historic center brings you toward the religious heart of the city. As you approach Piazza del Duomo, the scale and beauty of the surroundings become immediately apparent. You then step into the Florence Baptistery, one of the oldest buildings in the city. Inside, the golden mosaics covering the ceiling create a mesmerizing atmosphere, depicting biblical scenes that seem to glow in the filtered light. The structure’s history stretches back many centuries, and standing inside gives you a tangible sense of Florence’s medieval past. Return to the hotel and the balance of the afternoon is free to explore Florence. Dinner and overnight in Florence.
This morning we start our half day of touring at the Uffizi Gallery. As you move through its corridors, the evolution of Renaissance art unfolds around you, with masterpieces by Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Large windows along the gallery also offer occasional glimpses of the Arno River and the city’s rooftops, grounding the art in the very place where it was created. After leaving the museum, a short walk through Florence’s historic center brings you toward the religious heart of the city. As you approach Piazza del Duomo, the scale and beauty of the surroundings become immediately apparent. You then step into the Florence Baptistery, one of the oldest buildings in the city. Inside, the golden mosaics covering the ceiling create a mesmerizing atmosphere, depicting biblical scenes that seem to glow in the filtered light. The structure’s history stretches back many centuries, and standing inside gives you a tangible sense of Florence’s medieval past. Return to the hotel and the balance of the afternoon is free to explore Florence. Dinner and overnight in Florence.
September28
PADOVA / VENICE MESTRE
Day 11 ~ Monday
The journey from Florence to Padua (Padova) is a scenic northbound drive that takes you through the heart of Italy, typically lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Drive past the Apennine Mountains, where the landscape shifts from Tuscan hills to flatter plains as you approach the Veneto region. Arriving in Padua, the atmosphere feels distinctly different—less crowded than Florence but rich in history and local character. Your orientation tour begins in the expansive Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe. Its elliptical layout, lined with statues and surrounded by a canal, gives you an immediate sense of the city’s elegance and scale. We continue our drive to Venice Mestre and to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Novotel Venice Mestre Castellana.
The journey from Florence to Padua (Padova) is a scenic northbound drive that takes you through the heart of Italy, typically lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Drive past the Apennine Mountains, where the landscape shifts from Tuscan hills to flatter plains as you approach the Veneto region. Arriving in Padua, the atmosphere feels distinctly different—less crowded than Florence but rich in history and local character. Your orientation tour begins in the expansive Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe. Its elliptical layout, lined with statues and surrounded by a canal, gives you an immediate sense of the city’s elegance and scale. We continue our drive to Venice Mestre and to our hotel. Dinner and overnight at the Novotel Venice Mestre Castellana.
September29
VENICE
Day 12 ~ Tuesday
Transfer by coach across the causeway that connects the mainland to the historic lagoon city, arriving at Tronchetto, which serves as a main access point for visitors. At Tronchetto, you board a private boat, and this is where the experience truly becomes Venetian. As you glide across the lagoon, the skyline of domes, bell towers, and historic palaces gradually comes into view. Approaching the heart of the city by water offers a memorable first impression, with the boat delivering you close to St Mark's Square, the symbolic center of Venice. From the pier, you walk into the square, where your orientation continues with a guided visit to the Doge's Palace. This magnificent Gothic building was once the seat of Venetian political power, and inside you’ll explore grand halls, richly decorated chambers, and corridors that tell the story of the Venetian Republic. As part of the visit, you pass through the famous Bridge of Sighs, a covered bridge that once connected the palace to the old prisons—its name evoking the final glimpse of freedom for those who crossed it. After the palace visit, you return to the open space of St Mark's Square for a photo stop. Here, you can admire the grandeur of the St Mark's Basilica, with its intricate mosaics, domes, and ornate façade that reflect Venice’s historic ties to the East. The square itself, often filled with music and movement, captures the essence of the city. The tour then continues on foot through Venice’s maze of narrow streets and small bridges, gradually leading you toward the iconic Rialto Bridge. As you walk, you pass canals, hidden courtyards, and local shops, gaining a sense of everyday Venetian life. Reaching the Rialto area, you pause for photos of the historic bridge spanning the Grand Canal, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Return back to Venice Mestre on a private boat. Dinner and overnight in Venice Mestre.
Transfer by coach across the causeway that connects the mainland to the historic lagoon city, arriving at Tronchetto, which serves as a main access point for visitors. At Tronchetto, you board a private boat, and this is where the experience truly becomes Venetian. As you glide across the lagoon, the skyline of domes, bell towers, and historic palaces gradually comes into view. Approaching the heart of the city by water offers a memorable first impression, with the boat delivering you close to St Mark's Square, the symbolic center of Venice. From the pier, you walk into the square, where your orientation continues with a guided visit to the Doge's Palace. This magnificent Gothic building was once the seat of Venetian political power, and inside you’ll explore grand halls, richly decorated chambers, and corridors that tell the story of the Venetian Republic. As part of the visit, you pass through the famous Bridge of Sighs, a covered bridge that once connected the palace to the old prisons—its name evoking the final glimpse of freedom for those who crossed it. After the palace visit, you return to the open space of St Mark's Square for a photo stop. Here, you can admire the grandeur of the St Mark's Basilica, with its intricate mosaics, domes, and ornate façade that reflect Venice’s historic ties to the East. The square itself, often filled with music and movement, captures the essence of the city. The tour then continues on foot through Venice’s maze of narrow streets and small bridges, gradually leading you toward the iconic Rialto Bridge. As you walk, you pass canals, hidden courtyards, and local shops, gaining a sense of everyday Venetian life. Reaching the Rialto area, you pause for photos of the historic bridge spanning the Grand Canal, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Return back to Venice Mestre on a private boat. Dinner and overnight in Venice Mestre.
September30
VENICE AIRPORT / HOME
Day 13 ~ Wednesday
Transfer to the airport after breakfast for your United Airlines non-stop flight to Newark departing at 11:05am and arriving in Newark at 2:45pm.
Transfer to the airport after breakfast for your United Airlines non-stop flight to Newark departing at 11:05am and arriving in Newark at 2:45pm.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
All participants must review the Full Terms of Service here https://www.ihtours.com/terms-of-service/. These full terms of service will govern on all matters not specifically mentioned below.
TOUR PRICE: $5,699 USD per person based on double occupancy.
LAND ONLY PRICE: $4,699 USD per person.
PAYMENT TERMS:
A $400 deposit is required at the time of reservation. At 120 days before departure 50% of the final trip cost is required. Final payment is required 90 days before departure. All payments are 50% refundable up to 90 days before departure. Less than 90 days before departure no refunds are given.
You may also pay by personal cheque or credit card made payable to:
International Heritage Tours
7117 Bathurst Street, Suite 200
Thornhill, ON, CANADA
L4J 2J6
ATTN: DK5126
INCLUDED:
* Round trip air fare including all air taxes on United Airlines from Newark to Naples flying non-stop and return from Venice to Newark flying non-stop.
* 11 nights accommodations in the following cities:
- 2 Nights in Naples
- 5 nights in Rome
- 2 nights in Florence
- 2 nights in Venice
* Tour Escort
* Breakfast and dinner daily in the hotels
* Sightseeing as per the itinerary
* All entrance fees to the selected places of interest.
* Whisper system to hear the guides better.
* All city taxes of the hotels
* Local guides
* Arrival and departure transfers from/to the airport.
* 1 bottle of water per person per day while sightseeing
* Private boat transfer from/to Venice Mestre pier to San Marco Pier on Venice Island.
NOT INCLUDED:
* Single Supplement $1,050 USD
* Travel Insurance
* Lunches
* Tips to the guide, driver and dining room staff.
DOCUMENTATION:
Please ensure that you are in possession of a Canadian/USA Passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival in Italy. If you have a passport from another country, it is your responsibility to inquire at the appropriate Consulate if a Visa is required.
All participants must review the Full Terms of Service here https://www.ihtours.com/terms-of-service/. These full terms of service will govern on all matters not specifically mentioned below.
TOUR PRICE: $5,699 USD per person based on double occupancy.
LAND ONLY PRICE: $4,699 USD per person.
PAYMENT TERMS:
A $400 deposit is required at the time of reservation. At 120 days before departure 50% of the final trip cost is required. Final payment is required 90 days before departure. All payments are 50% refundable up to 90 days before departure. Less than 90 days before departure no refunds are given.
You may also pay by personal cheque or credit card made payable to:
International Heritage Tours
7117 Bathurst Street, Suite 200
Thornhill, ON, CANADA
L4J 2J6
ATTN: DK5126
INCLUDED:
* Round trip air fare including all air taxes on United Airlines from Newark to Naples flying non-stop and return from Venice to Newark flying non-stop.
* 11 nights accommodations in the following cities:
- 2 Nights in Naples
- 5 nights in Rome
- 2 nights in Florence
- 2 nights in Venice
* Tour Escort
* Breakfast and dinner daily in the hotels
* Sightseeing as per the itinerary
* All entrance fees to the selected places of interest.
* Whisper system to hear the guides better.
* All city taxes of the hotels
* Local guides
* Arrival and departure transfers from/to the airport.
* 1 bottle of water per person per day while sightseeing
* Private boat transfer from/to Venice Mestre pier to San Marco Pier on Venice Island.
NOT INCLUDED:
* Single Supplement $1,050 USD
* Travel Insurance
* Lunches
* Tips to the guide, driver and dining room staff.
DOCUMENTATION:
Please ensure that you are in possession of a Canadian/USA Passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival in Italy. If you have a passport from another country, it is your responsibility to inquire at the appropriate Consulate if a Visa is required.
**THE ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY VARY IN THE ORDER YOU VISIT**
