ROME, ITALY — Oct. 5

We will view the best of Rome all in one day as we explore the Eternal City visiting the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain with free time for shopping.

On this excursion you will:

* Relax on your 90 minute motor coach journey into Rome to begin your exploration of the Eternal City.
* Enter the vast expanse of St. Peter’s Square, which can hold over 300,000 people, by passing through the embracing arms of Bernini’s colonnades into Christendom’s largest church, St. Peter’s Basilica.
* To realize its enormity, look at the metal markers on the floor inside showing the comparative lengths of other churches and cathedrals. Suspended over the altar, where the Pope celebrates Mass, is the gilded Papal canopy, called Baldacchino, created by Bernini in the 17th century.
* In the apse is the splendid gilt and bronze throne, also designed by Bernini.
* Then, view one of the best-known pieces of sculpture in the word, the Pietà, Michelangelo’s masterpiece in white marble.
* Next, drive along the Tiber River, passing the medieval Tiberine Island and the Roman Bridges.
* Drive on the Aventine Hill for a view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, where chariot races were held.
* See the Forum where vestiges of the glory and majesty of the Roman Empire still remain. Visit the inside of the Colosseum, used for gladiator fights, wild beast games and naval battles.
* Drive by Venice Square, the heart of Rome, and see the flamboyant memorial to King Victor Emanuel the Second.
* Finally, stop at the Trevi Fountain where king Neptune’s Tritons guard the sparkling waters of Rome’s most beloved monument. Toss a coin in the fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City!
* Then, enjoy a typical Italian lunch at a local restaurant before some free time at leisure for shopping or to continue sightseeing on your own.