Three Capitals

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, Monday June 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Tuesday June 2: London

Welcome to London! Meet your ACIS Tour Manager, relax, unpack and begin to explore the city's unique neighborhoods. Perhaps check out the street markets along Portobello Road in Notting Hill; explore the paths of Hyde Park or the mansions of nearby Belgravia; visit museums in South Kensington; or stroll along the artsy South Bank. (D)

Day 3, Wednesday June 3: London

This morning, learn about London's majestic past and fast-paced present on your guided sightseeing tour. See Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Along the way, our guide will point out more landmark sites like the Gherkin, the Shard, and the Cheese Grater—all new buildings changing the London skyline. Another highlight of the day is a tour inside St. Paul's Cathedral. Sir Christopher Wren's architectural masterpiece is an enduring symbol of London, the seat of the Church of England and famed for its dome and Whispering Gallery. If you have time, your ticket includes access to climb to the top of the dome. Your afternoon is free to perhaps visit Borough Market or explore the British Museum, home to an astounding 150 million items including the Rosetta Stone and sculptural friezes from the Parthenon. (B,D)

Day 4, Thursday June 4: Paris

Today take the the Eurostar high-speed train to zip underneath the English Channel and on to Paris, known as the “City of Light” for its role as a center of education and culture during the Enlightenment. A guided sightseeing tour takes you past some of the most famous attractions in Paris. Your expert local guide will show you the magnificent Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, Napoleon's final resting place at Les Invalides and the Gothic wonder of Notre Dame. Later, cap off another exceptional day with the stunning view from the very top of the Eiffel Tower. (B,D)

Day 5, Friday June 5: Paris

Today, breeze by the crowds with your timed entrance to the Louvre and discover the many famous masterpieces that call it home. Insightful commentary from your local guide highlights the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo and more as you wander through the galleries. From its beginnings as a royal fortress to its current status as the world's most visited art museum, the Louvre has long been at the center of Parisian culture and home to a collection of 35,000 works of art from around the world. Then switch to culinary arts, as your Taste of France cooking workshop offers an authentic experience with professional local chefs who will introduce you to some of the classic Parisian ingredients and dishes. Assist in the demonstration by trying a few of the techniques that French cooking is famous for, and savor the wonderful smells and flavors that result with plenty of tastings. Tonight, you may wish to walk around Montmartre. This cultural and artistic district is worth the visit for the bustling energy of the artists and hipsters as well as the stunning views of the city. (B,D)

Day 6, Saturday June 6: Florence

Board a flight to Florence and find out why the city is considered the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” On your city sightseeing tour with a local expert you'll see first-hand Brunelleschi's Duomo, Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors and Piazza della Signoria—the political center of this great Renaissance city. Then, scoot by the crowds with your own timed entrance to the Accademia, which houses Michelangelo's David. (D)

Day 7, Sunday June 7: Rome

This morning, we head for Rome. Upon arrival, live la dolce vita as you visit one of the city's most historic gelaterias to see how the famous Italian-style ice cream is produced during a gelateria tour and tasting. Your learning will be rewarded with a sweet sample of your favorite flavor as well as one of the gelateria's iconic Sanpietrino treats. Then enjoy a timed reservation for a guided tour of the ancient Colosseum, a nearly two-thousand-year-old Roman emblem and one of the world's most famous landmarks. Your ticket also includes entrance to the nearby Roman Forum if your group has time. (B,D)

Day 8, Monday June 8: Rome

Rome is called “The Eternal City” because the ancient Romans believed that no matter what empires rose and fell, Rome would endure forever. Today's panoramic drive of the city is a great introduction to the many phases of Roman history. Our carefully-selected 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 reservations, meaning you'll breeze right on by the long lines. Celebrate a unique and exceptional week with an authentic Roman pizza dinner and an evening passeggiata romana to the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. (B,D)

Day 9, Tuesday June 9: Rome

Today why not visit the tranquil Borghese Gardens or the shops of Via Condotti? Climb each of the seven hills, or visit some of the majestic churches such as Santa Maria Maggiore. Be sure to sample the gelato. One of the best spots for that is Piazza Navona. (B,D)

Day 10, Wednesday June 10: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Further immerse yourself in the culture and delights of England's capital with an extra night in London, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager, at the beginning of your tour. (B)