Art Tour of Venice, Florence & Rome
Join our new Grand Tour of Italy and explore the unrivalled monuments and museums of three of Italy's most impressive and historically unique cities. We will begin in the splendid imperial city of Rome, discovering the importance of the architectural and artistic legacy left behind by the ancient Romans at the Roman Forum, Pantheon, Coliseum, and other stunning classical sites. As the Roman Emperors embellished this central city of the Empire, so later did the successive Popes, enriching the splendour of Faith through their architectural monuments such as the Basilica of Saint Peters, the Vatican Museum and the Holy Sistine Chapel. We will get to know some of the finest artists of Western civilization, such as Michelangelo, Raphael and Caravaggio that were nurtured by Rome and her mighty patrons during the High Renaissance and Baroque periods. Lavish private residences of powerful cardinals like the Villa Borghese house the dazzling magnum opus of Bernini and works by Raphael and Caravaggio.
From the grand centre of Rome we will head north to Tuscany and its cultural gem, the city of Florence. On route, we'll visit the ancient Etruscan town of Perugia, one of the most interesting towns in this region of Umbria.
In Florence the fifteenth century town of the powerful Medici's, we will spend our days visiting the artistic wonders of Giotto, Masaccio, Bramante, Donatello, Botticelli, Verrocchio and Michelangelo. Our elegant accommodations in the Chianti Valley are set above vineyards and olive groves on a vast agricultural estate at a refined 16th Century Villa. The villa offers relaxation areas, complete with infinity pools to complete your day's adventures. In the evening relax with an aperitif on the terrace and enjoy the magic of a sunset over the Chianti Valley before dining in the sophisticated but cosy Villa Restaurant which features a superb wine list and Tuscan Cuisine with a modern twist.
From Tuscany we will drive north to Venice one of Europe's greatest and most unique architectural wonders and our final destination. We will discover the hidden treasures of the 'sinking city'and the allure and fascination that this iconic city of romance and intrigue continues to inspire in every visitor to the lagoons.
In addition both Venice and Rome are excellent locations to begin or end a Mediterranean Cruise if you are interested and have extended holiday time.
