It is then outside again to see the Arch of Constantine and to  take a walk to the Roman Forum, Ancient Rome’s main square and the centre of activity, political, religious and social.

Your guide will then take you to the Trevi Fountain, famous as the backdrop to many movies including Fellini’s’ La Dolce Vita.  If you wish to return to Rome one day don’t forget to throw a coin in the fountain and make a wish! It is then time for lunch (own expense).

After lunch you head for the Government District where you will see the Parliament Building, the Palace of the Council of Ministers, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius.  Nearby is the Temple of Hadrian, commissioned by the Emperor Antonius Pius to commemorate his great predecessor. A walk through a narrow alleyway brings you to the Pantheon where you can see the tomb of the Renaissance painter and architect Raphael.

As you emerge from the Pantheon you pass by the Ancient Baths of Nero to Piazza Navona to see Bernini’s wonderful Fountain of the Four Rivers.

The final destination of the day takes you across the Tiber to the Vatican. There is so much to see as you meander through the Vatican Museums!

Your guide will tell you about the marvelous artworks on display, especially the frescoes in Raphael’s Rooms and Michelangelo’s renowned ceiling frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.

Your guide will then take you on a tour of Saint Peter’s Basilica and you finish the day in Saint Peter’s Square to catch a glimpse of the Pope’s apartments.

On the second day, leave behind the bustle of Rome for a relaxing 2-hour drive through the scenic countryside of Lazio and Tuscany to Pisa.  You will be collected from your hotel at 7 am in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to begin your full-day tour of Florence and Pisa.   Your private driver will ensure you have stops on the way for comfort breaks and to take photos.  Bottled water is provided. When you arrive in Pisa you’ll start in the main square. As you explore the ancient Maritime Republic city, you will see the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the famous leaning tower!

When you arrive in Florence you’ll have time for lunch (at your own expense). Your local art historian guide will meet you for a tour of the city’s highlights, including Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, Republic Square and Palazzo Vecchio.

You’ll make your way to the magnificant Piazza Duomo. The stunning Cathedral sits at its centre, with beautiful, unique marble engravings. And, and towering above everything is Brunelleschi’s Dome, a wonder of Renaissance architecture and an enduring symbol of Renaissance Florence.

Finally your tour will take you to visit Michelangelo’s most famous sculpture: David. Be sure to look at it from every angle as you walk around it, as this is the best way to appreciate Michelangelo’s genius. Your driver will pick you up and bring you back to Rome.