Cultures of the Mediterranean

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, Tuesday July 14: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Wednesday July 15: Barcelona

Arrive in Barcelona, meet your ACIS Tour Manager, and begin to explore this historic city. Founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BC, it’s known for its artistic treasures and fine architecture, from Gothic to modernist. Perhaps take in the Picasso Museum, home to more than 3,000 works by the famous artist, or visit the city’s intriguing Maritime Museum. (D)

Day 3, Thursday July 16: Barcelona

Begin your day with a panoramic sightseeing tour. Your local guide will point out the major highlights of Barcelona, from the Gothic Quarter to the unique Gaudí designs along the Passeig de Gràcia, and will make a stop outside his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. Later, stroll through his whimsical Parc Güell for a sweeping view over the city, and also enjoy a visit inside one of the city's unique Gaudí-designed houses, either Casa Batlló or La Pedrera. Take a walk down La Rambla this evening and experience the brightly lit, bustling atmosphere of Plaça de Catalunya. Later, explore the city, including the neighborhoods around Ciutadella Park and the Olympic Port, on a guided Barcelona by bike tour. Tonight enjoy a Flamenco show. (B,D)

Day 4, Friday July 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. Then journey along the route of an old Roman road, the Via Domitia, to Provence, the first Roman province established beyond the Alps. (B,D)

Day 5, Saturday July 18: Nice

Visit Avignon, home to stunning architecture and a beautiful example of a fully walled city. Explore the town and enjoy entrance to the imposing Papal Palace (the city temporarily replaced Rome as the Papacy seat during the 1300s), including the provision of interactive Histopads that use augmented reality to enhance your discovery and knowledge of this historic monument. Then visit the famous Pont Saint-Bénezet. Continue to the Pont du Gard for a visit before traveling to the French Riviera for the night. (B,D)

Day 6, Sunday July 19: Nice

Today we'll introduce you to the romantic sights of Vieux Nice during an orientation tour led by your ACIS Tour Manager. As you explore its history and culture, enjoy the city's many fine attractions, from Place Massena to the winding streets of the Old Town to dazzling Mediterranean views. Enjoy a 1 hour coastal cruise this afternoon. Tonight, perhaps take an evening stroll along the waterfront. (B,D)

Day 7, Monday July 20: Montecatini

Bid adieu to France as you cross into Italy and arrive in Pisa. Visit the Cathedral and marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower—the Cathedral’s bell tower. Next stop: Tuscany, a region famous for spawning giants in the fields of art and literature, including Michelangelo, Sandro Botticelli, Dante and Leonardo da Vinci. (B,D)

Day 8, Tuesday July 21: Rome

Today begins with a timed entrance to the Accademia. Then perhaps satisfy your sweet tooth at some of the area's best gelaterias before continuing on to Rome. (B,D)

Day 9, Wednesday July 22: 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 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. Then go inside the iconic and historic Colosseum with a local guide (another line-avoiding timed reservation) 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. In the evening join the locals for a passeggiata romana with your tour manager, strolling past illuminated landmarks such as the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. (B,D)

Day 10, Thursday July 23: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)