Rome and Sorrento

Step into Paestum, an ancient sanctuary of stone and silence. Once a thriving Greek colony known as Poseidonia, it later became a Roman stronghold while preserving its classical character. Today, visitors wander through open fields where three grand Doric temples still stand, glowing beneath the Italian sun. Beyond them, remnants of a Roman forum, an amphitheater, and long-forgotten roads hint at the lives of gods, traders, and settlers who once called this sacred place home.

Discover the beauty of Capri on a guided excursion from Marina Grande to the island’s hilltop heart. Ride the funicular up to Capri Town, where sweeping views and charming streets set the scene. Stroll through lively piazzas, boutiques, and cafés before continuing to Villa Jovis, the dramatic cliffside residence of Emperor Tiberius. From these ancient ruins, take in breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples and the Bay of Salerno while exploring one of the island’s most historic and scenic landmarks.

Cameos—oval portraits carved in relief on a contrasting background—have been treasured since ancient Greece and were especially popular in Rome among Augustus’s family. Visit a modern studio to learn how skilled artisans continue the tradition, carving these delicate works of art up close.

Stop in Pompeii, the city where time stood still. Once home to 20,000 residents, it was buried by Mount Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago and lay hidden under 30 feet of ash and mud. Excavated over centuries, the site reveals daily Roman life through public spaces, political graffiti, taverns, and street signs.

Discover Rome’s iconic landmarks on a guided walk. At the Spanish Steps, see the “sinking ship” fountain, designed that way because of low water pressure that forced the artist to sink it below street level. Marvel at the Trevi Fountain’s Baroque grandeur, the Pantheon’s soaring dome, and Piazza Navona, where Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers anchors the bustling square.

Step inside the Colosseum with a licensed guide, once the stage for gladiators, naval battles, and wild beast hunts, and explore the underground chambers where animals were kept. Continue to the Forum Romanum, the hub of Roman politics, religion, and commerce. Conclude at Piazza Venezia, framed by its grand palaces and the striking Victor Emmanuel Monument.

Descend into Rome’s early Christian catacombs, dating from the 1st-4th centuries, once the burial place of saints, popes, and martyrs. See frescoes of fish and doves, plus tomb inscriptions beneath the Appian Way. Then step into gladiator life through workshops and demonstrations of training and combat.

Step back in time at Ostia Antica, once the bustling seaport of ancient Rome. Explore remarkably preserved buildings and vivid frescoes at the archaeological site. Guided by local experts, your group will also take part in an interactive reenactment of a Roman funeral ceremony, just as it was performed two millennia ago.

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, with its vast colonnades that seem to embrace the world. Inside, admire Michelangelo’s soaring dome, rising 452 feet above the ground, and his renowned Pietà. Then step into the Sistine Chapel, where the artist reluctantly painted frescoes that today stand among the world’s greatest masterpieces.

Travel to Tivoli to explore two of Italy’s most remarkable villas. At Hadrian’s Villa, built as Emperor Hadrian’s retreat from Rome, wander through the ruins of baths, gardens, and the famous reflecting pool once surrounded by marble columns. Continue to Villa d’Este, a Renaissance masterpiece known for its ornate halls and cascading fountains.