Take an escorted vacation tour of Northern Italy that begins and ends in marvelous Milan. You’ll begin with a welcome dinner in a fine Milanese restaurant, followed by two nights in the fashionable city to visit its Sforzesco Castle Grounds and Museum, Duomo Square, and see the world-famous La Scala Opera House. You’ll travel to Turin—former capital of Italy and birthplace of Fiat automobiles—where guided sightseeing includes a visit to the cathedral which houses the Holy Shroud. Enter Emilia-Romagna renowned worldwide for its gourmet traditions. Stop in Parma—of parmesan and prosciutto fame—and visit Modena for a Balsamic Vinegar tasting. Next stop is Venice, a favorite destination for romantics and art lovers. Take a private boat ride and join your Local Guide for a walking tour to see St. Mark’s Square’s, its byzantine Basilica, the Doges’ Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. Also watch the age-old art of glassblowing by a local artisan.

Head to Verona—setting of the Shakespearean tragedy, Romeo & Juliet. Take photos of Juliet’s balcony, and see the pink-marbled arena of gladiator battles of the 1st century AD—now an exquisite venue for world-class opera performances. Enjoy an authentic Italian farewell dinner in Milan to commemorate your escape of Northern Italy, away from the crowds, and with savings to share on cherished mementos and experiences.

City Highlights

MILAN Welcome and farewell dinners at a local restaurant; guided walking tour, visit the Sforzesco Castle grounds and museum, Duomo Square and the GalleriaTURIN Guided sightseeing, walk through the historic center, and visit the cathedral that houses the Holy ShroudPARMA Guided sightseeingMODENA Orientation, [LF] balsamic vinegar tasting and light lunchVENICE ISLAND Private boat ride; guided walking tour, visit St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, Doges’ Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs; glassblower’s demonstrationVERONA Walking orientation, see Juliet’s Balcony and the Arena

Meals

Full buffet breakfast daily; 1 lunch, 3 three-course dinners with wine , including welcome and farewell dinners at local restaurants in Milan

Notes

Hotels listed may occasionally be substituted with alternative hotels of equivalent standard.

Transportation

Motorcoach, private boat ride in Venice. Free wifi available on your motorcoach and in most hotel lobbies