Venice... Jewel of the Adriatic 

Day 1 - The adventure begins as we board our transAtlantic flight to Venice, the Jewel of the Adriatic. 

Day 2 - After check-in at our hotel, we will enjoy a trip to the Basilica San Marco. Situated in the heart of Venice, on the Piazza San Marco, the Basilica is a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.  It was here that the Doge was presented to the city following his election. 

Day 3 - Today we will drive to Ravenna where we will visit the 6th century church of San Vitale, home of one of the last great works of art in the ancient world, the 1400-year-old mosaics. While there, we will also visit the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia with its brilliant mosaics. 

Day 4 - Nothing says Venice like the Grand Canal which sweeps through the heart of the city.  Today our guide will take us past the parade of palaces built over a span of 500 years.  They border the winding waterway, and represent some of the finest architecture of the Republic. 

Day 5 - This morning we will travel to Padua and Vicenza. Padua is rich in art and architecture, especially  the Scrovegni Chapel, renowned for Giotto's lyrical frescoes.  Vicenza is the great Palladian city, celebrated  for its architecture; Vicenza has much  to offer the visitor, from Roman and Renaissance monuments to elegant shops. 

Day 6 - Our tour today will include many of the famous museums of  Venice:  The Libreria; Palazzo Ducale; and the world famous Accademia. 

Day 7 - Today we will explore the Lagoon and its islands:  Murano, celebrated for its glass; Burano, the "lace island," and ancient Torcello. 

Day 8 - Today we will explore Venice's panoply  of churches, including the fabulous baroque Santa Maria della Salute. Later we'll visit the world famous Guggenheim Museum (depending on its availability). 

Day 9 - A totally free day to revisit sites, shop or just sit in the square enjoying a Strega and watching the people and pigeons. 

Day 10 - We will be driven to the airport and assisted with check-in for our flight home from the “Jewel of the Adriatic.” 

---

Included as part of the tour : 

Roundtrip air 
Expert guiding 
Transportation and admissions as mentioned 
Superior tourist class hotels with private facilities 
Breakfasts 
Transfers 

Not included with the tour :

Passport 
Items of a personal nature 
Tips to guides and drivers