Private tour (ITY019) Italy 3 Days (for Cruise Passengers)

Then explore Siena and nearby towns. Siena is a unique UNESCO World Heritage medieval Italian town and historic rival of Florence, renowned for its art and architecture—especially in Siena's historic old town center. Admire the splendor of Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), whose interior is uniquely decorated with alternating stripes of white and greenish-black marble. Visit the heart of the city, Piazza del Campo, the main square and historic core of Siena, recognized as one of Europe's best-preserved medieval squares.

When the time is right, travel 50 km to San Gimignano, another delightful small town loved by many. Perched high on a hill overlooking the lush Tuscan countryside like a dream, this former pilgrim stop is regarded as one of Italy's most beautiful medieval towns. Explore the heart of San Gimignano—its enchanting walled old town. Stroll along its brick-paved streets, stepping back across 700 years of history, and visit Piazza del Duomo, one of three interconnected central squares.

Return for an overnight stay aboard the ship: Riviera, Oceania Cruises (Italy)

2 Pitigliano - Sovana - Sorano (11-hour service) 9:00 AM: Pick up at Civitavecchia Cruise Port. Today we explore 3 towns known as the gems of Tuscany: Pitigliano - Sovana - Sorano.

Travel to Pitigliano, known as "Little Jerusalem" due to its historically large Jewish community. Visit the Museo Diocesano, which houses a collection of art and artifacts from Pitigliano Cathedral and nearby churches. Then visit the Jewish Museum, synagogue and ghetto, home to Pitigliano's Jewish community since the 16th century. Stroll through this beautiful town, preserved just as it was centuries ago. See the ancient aqueduct and visit Pitigliano Cathedral (Duomo di Pitigliano), a historic Catholic church dedicated to St. Peter and St. John. Next, travel to Sovana to visit the central square, Piazza del Pretorio, followed by key sights including the ancient stone fortress Rocca degli Aldobrandeschi and the town's co-cathedral, Concattedrale di San Pietro. Continue to Sorano, another cliffside medieval town in Tuscany that retains its timeless character. Explore the medieval fortress Fortezza Orsini, stop to take in the views at Masso Leopoldino, and return to Rome. Overnight in Rome.

3 Rome - Vatican City (11-hour service) Rome - Vatican City: Visit Vatican City, located within Rome, the residence of the Pope, head of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the smallest country in the world (0.44 sq km), centered around St. Peter's Basilica. Explore the Vatican Museums, an immense complex housing countless masterpieces of art, featuring the iconic Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's famous fresco, The Creation of Adam.

Visit St. Peter's Square and St. Peter's Basilica, the highlights of any trip to Vatican City. Climb the 551 steps to the top of the dome for a panoramic vantage point overlooking the grand and magnificent square below.

Then head back into Rome to explore the Colosseum, the monumental open-air amphitheater in central Rome used for contests of gladiators, wild beasts, and exotic animals. Completed in 80 AD, this elliptical amphitheater measures 527 meters in perimeter, stands 57 meters high, and once held over 60,000 spectators. It was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2007 (2550 BE).

Next, visit the Roman Forum, which served as the center for political meetings, administration, religious worship, and other civic affairs of ancient Rome. It took as long as 900 years to build. Today, only ruins remain, yet one can still feel its sheer grandeur and magnificence. Then, visit the viewpoint on Palatine Hill, offering a scenic view overlooking the beautiful Roman Forum and Colosseum.

hotel Overnight Rome