Our 2-week tour of Italy started in Florence and wound up in the Amalfi Coast. Here are the highlights of the tour:
Florence: We backed away from the crowds and had a chance to go on a Chianti wine tour. A visit to a few Tuscan hill towns like Monterrigioni and Castellini showed off the true side of Italy.
Padua: Our group of 12 was based here for 7 nights to easily get to other places on our itinerary. The highlights here were a visit to the Scrovegni Chapel, perhaps more beautiful than the Sistine Chapel. The basilica of St. Anthony was a moving experience.
Vicenza: Home of the famous architect, Andrea Paladio, the Teatro Olimpico was the star of the city.
Verona: Our only day without bright sunshine, but the Roman Arena was shining for us today.
Lake Garda: For me, this was the find of the trip. Much, much better and bigger than it's famous cousin, Lake Como. the Roman ruins and quaint village made for a wonderful day.
Venice: We just missed the George Clooney wedding and were able to visit St. Mark's basilica with no waiting in line. We were lucky enough to get in for the short time the lights were on. Don't let me forget our private cruise down the Grand Canal of Venice.
Amalfi Coast: A stay in Sorrento and side trips to Capri and Ravello are never bad things to do.
But the best thing about our tour to Italy had to be the new friends we made on our adventure.
For more information on my tours to Italy, visit www.travelingprofessor.com.