Welcome to Portugal!

Check into your hotel, and tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.

When in LISBON–SANTARÉM–FÁTIMA

On your guided sightseeing tour of the capital of Portugal, see the enormous monument dedicated to Henry the Navigator, as well as the 16th-century Belém Tower, the Moorish citadel, and impressive Black Horse Square. Visit the Cathedral La Sé , where St. Anthony was baptized, and St. Anthony’s Church, where it is said he was born. Admire the beauty of St. Mary of Belém Church, part of the Jeronimos Monastery complex. This building dates back to the mid-1400s and was built as thanks to the Virgin Mary for Vasco de Gama’s successful voyage to India. Leaving Lisbon, head north and stop in Santarém to visit the Church of the Eucharistic Holy Miracle to then arrive in Fátima, home to one of the most famous Catholic shrines. Enjoy an orientation walk and visit the Tomb of the Visionaries and the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the Virgin Mary repeatedly appeared to three shepherd children in 1917, culminating in her revelation of the Three Secrets of Fátima. This evening, join pilgrims from around the world for the Rosary and candlelight procession at the Our Lady of Fátima Basilica.

Today's Distance: 118 mi / 190 km

-Breakfast   -Dinner

Historic Halls

ORVIETO Spend free time in Piazza del Duomo.

ASSISI Visit the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Free time this afternoon and evening.

137 mi / 220 km 

-Breakfast

ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi with a visit to the Basilica named after the deacon, friar, and mystic, who became one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity. Revered for his love of the Eucharist and the Earth, Francis found communion with God through nature here in this Italian village where he lived and died. Marvel at the magnificent frescoes by Italian master Giotto that adorn the Basilica where the Saint is buried. 

Legendary Landmarks

FLORENCE Guided walking tour includes sights of the cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry’s “Gates of Paradise,” and the sculptures of Signoria Square.

PADUA Take an orientation drive, followed by an  Italian aperitivo (pre-dinner cocktail) at Café Pedrocchi.

249 mi / 400 km 

-Breakfast

LOCAL TASTES They say aperitivo is life. Indulge in the Italian specialties served at Café Pedrocchi with a traditional cocktail before dinner. From the Latin word for ‘open,’ aperitivi cocktails or wine are served between 6 and 9pm as an opener to the evening meal. Alla salute! 

Benvenuti a Venezia

VENICE A private boat ride and guided walking tour, to see St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, Doges’ Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and a glassblower demonstration. 

50 mi / 80 km 

-Breakfast

HISTORIC SPOT Locals simply call Piazza San Marco “la piazza.” As paired with the smaller Piazzetta, it forms the social, religious, and political hub of Venice, which Napoleon called “the drawing room of Europe.” St. Mark’s Basilica dominates the square, offering visitors a spectacular view of the great arches, marble embellishments, and the Romanesque carvings of its façade. Also gracing the square is Doge’s Palace – a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture. The enclosed Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace with the prison, is named for the prisoners breathing in their last view of the Rio di Palazzo on their walk to the prison’s interrogation rooms. 

Ladies & Gentlemen of Veronica

VERONA Walk to Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza Bra to admire the Arena.

MILAN Orientation walk includes stops at La Scala Opera House, the Galleria, and the Duomo. Free time for dinner. 

174 mi / 280 km 

-Breakfast

CULTURE & TRADITION Stroll through the grand piazzas of Verona, where the tradition of La Passeggiata (leisurely stroll) is alive and well near the site of the ancient forum. Where fruits, vegetables, and spices once filled the market squares, now eateries and shops share the space with the ancient arts of sumptuous fountains, monuments, architecture, and people-watching. 

Life on the Lake

LAKE COMO Take a  private boat ride to Bellagio.

MILAN Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. 

106 mi /170 km 

-Breakfast     -Dinner

EPIC RIDE Glide on the gorgeous waters of lago di Como on your private cruise to beautiful Bellagio - Lake Como’s most loved village with narrow streets and stunning views. A magical experience to take in Italy’s most famous lake.

Safe travels until we meet again!

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. 

-Breakfast