Via Aurelia

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 June 14: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Sunday June 15: Barcelona

¡Bienvenidos a España! Meet your ACIS Tour Manager in Barcelona, capital of Catalonia and Spain's second largest city. Founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BC, it's known for its artistic treasures and fine architecture from Gothic to Modernist. Take time to wander the old town and acquaint yourself with this vibrant culture, including an evening stroll down the famous La Rambla. (D)

Day 3, Monday June 16: Barcelona

Begin your day with a sightseeing tour. Our local expert will point out all the major highlights of Barcelona, including the unique Gaudí-designed houses. Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. After, you'll be able to study the intricate design inside and out of his still-unfinished Sagrada Familia and stroll whimsical Parc Güell. (B,D)

Day 4, Tuesday June 17: Provence

Cross the Pyrénées to France. Your first stop is the medieval city of Carcassonne, whose ramparts and towers are so well-preserved that they have been featured in movies. Continue through vineyards to Provence. (B,D)

Day 5, Wednesday June 18: Nice

Explore the Roman Empire's influence on France today with a visit to the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct preserved in almost perfect condition. A true marvel of Roman engineering, the 161-foot tall bridge aqueduct is still standing nearly 2,000 years after its construction. Our tour offers an exclusive guided visit to the third floor for a closer look at the structure's architecture and exceptional views. Next up is the city of Arles, noted for its Roman Arena and Theater, which you will have a chance to explore. Then continue to Nice, the Queen of the Riviera. (B,D)

Day 6, Thursday June 19: Nice

Drive to the beautiful clifftop village of Eze this morning, where you'll learn about the local art of perfume making on your visit to the Jardin Exotique and Fragonard Perfume Factory. After a scenic drive back in Nice, discover the city's hidden gems from a different perspective this afternoon during a bicycle tour showcasing areas such as the port, Place Garibaldi, Place Massena and the Old Town. (B,D)

Day 7, Friday June 20: Florence

Follow the coast to Italy, where you'll visit Pisa and see its Leaning Tower and Cathedral. Continue to Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance, so called for its role as the center of the rebirth of arts and culture after the Dark Ages. Stroll the streets from where Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci drew inspiration. (B,D)

Day 8, Saturday June 21: Florence

During today's sightseeing tour a local guide provides commentary while showing you Brunelleschi's splendid Duomo, Ghiberti's famous Baptistry Doors, Ponte Vecchio and the Piazza della Signoria—the political center of the Renaissance city. Breeze by the crowds with your own timed entrance to the Accademia, which houses Michelangelo's David. (B,D)

Day 9, Sunday June 22: Rome

This morning head to Rome with a stop in Assisi en route. (B,D)

Day 10, Monday June 23: Rome

This morning you'll go inside the iconic and historic Colosseum with a local guide 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. Your ticket also includes entrance to the nearby Roman Forum if your group has time. This afternoon our carefully-selected local expert accompanies you through the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. In the evening, enjoy a pizza dinner, Roman style. (B,D)

Day 11, Tuesday June 24: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)