Insider's Roman Italy

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Saturday March 11: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Sunday March 12: Sorrento

Arrive in Rome, meet your ACIS Tour Manager and drive south to the delightful seaside town of Sorrento. Orange and lemon groves abound. (D)

Day 3, Monday March 13: Sorrento

Board a high-speed hydrofoil to cross the Bay of Naples to Capri, the Island of Dreams. Upon arriving on the island, take the funicular past subtropical gardens to the main square. There is time to wander through the narrow lanes and shop in the tiny artisan stores that line the square. Entrance to the Roman ruins of Emperor Tiberius's Villa Jovis is included. Then return to Sorrento where a Tarantella dance lesson with local experts will teach you the steps of this southern Italian folk dance. (B,D)

Day 4, Tuesday March 14: Sorrento

Today's adventure starts by exploring a working mozzarella farm and learning first-hand about how this creamy cheese is made, from ingredients to production to taste. A scenic drive then takes you along breathtaking coastline to Pompeii where a local guide provides commentary as you explore this town that was preserved under 23 feet of volcanic ash by the eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. A visit to the Villa of Mysteries is also included. Return to Sorrento and enjoy an evening stroll around the charming Piazza Tasso after dinner. (B,D)

Day 5, Wednesday March 15: Rome

We head first to Naples today and make a stop at the National Archaeological Museum where a local guide will take us on a tour of the trove of Italy's ancient treasures housed at this fine museum. Then dive into the many layers of history beneath our feet with a guided Naples Underground tour before heading north to Rome. (B,D)

Day 6, Thursday March 16: Rome

Rome is called “The Eternal City” because the ancient Romans believed that no matter what empires rose and fell, Rome would endure forever. Morning sightseeing introduces you to this ancient city. With a local guide, go inside the iconic and historic Colosseum (your timed reservation ensures no waiting in line) and learn the many stories of this nearly 2,000-year-old Roman landmark that's considered one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world. Then continue with your guide to the adjoining Roman Forum, the social, political and commercial hub of the Roman Empire. We'll also visit the Pantheon and see the obelisk-topped fountain in Piazza della Rotonda. Tonight we'll provide restaurant vouchers and suggestions for our favorite trattorias so you can dine like (and with) the locals. We also introduce you to the fine Italian art of the passeggiata with an evening stroll around the Piazza Navona. (B,D)

Day 7, Friday March 17: Rome

Today's panoramic drive of the city is a great introduction to the many phases of Roman history. Our local expert accompanies you through the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. The best part is that these are timed entrances, meaning you'll breeze right by the long lines facing other tourists. In the evening try your hand in the Italian culinary arts with a pizza making lesson and dinner. Pay close attention to the chef's presentation on how to lay out the dough of a perfect pie, top it with ingredients in the Roman style and finish it off in the oven. You'll work in teams to assemble and cook your own authentic, brick oven pizza. (B,D)

Day 8, Saturday March 18: Rome

Today enjoy a virtural realty experience at Domus Aurea followed by an included entrance to the Borghese Gallery by metro. Finally, we'll say goodbye to Rome (and a fantastic week in Italy) with an evening passeggiata to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Please note dinner is not included this evening. (B)

Day 9, Sunday March 19: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)