Sun, Sept 29: Board your overnight flight from Indianapolis to Rome, Italy.

Mon, Sept 30: Upon arrival in Rome,  depart for Naples and indulge in a welcome dinner featuring authentic Neapolitan pizza. (Meals: Dinner)

Tue, Oct 1: Today embark on a delightful journey through Campania’s capital city of Naples, commencing with an expert-led walking tour of the magnificent Basilica of St. Francesco di Paola and the Royal Palace of Naples, both cherished residences of the Bourbon Kings. Take in the rich heritage of the city at the prestigious Teatro di San Carlo, the oldest opera house in Europe. Bask in the grandeur of the Galleria Umberto I, a splendid shopping gallery inspired by Milan’s renowned Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Pass by the esteemed St. James Place before reaching the remarkable Castel Nuovo, a medieval fortress that stands as a testament to the city’s distinguished legacy. Explore Europe’s largest historic center featuring the Spaccanapoli, a bustling thoroughfare that traces the ancient Greco-Roman city of Neapolis, and the monumental square, Piazza del Gesu, home to the beautifully ornate church of Gesu Nuovo and the more gothic reserved architecture of Santa Chiara Monastery.  (B)

Wed, Oct 2: Get lost in the captivating preservation of Pompeii, Europe’s most compelling archaeological site. Witness the excavation that has unearthed a trove of priceless artifacts, providing a miraculous glimpse into the ancient way of life of this once-thriving community. Stroll along meticulously preserved streets, where time stands still with haunting plaster casts of those who met with a tragic fate.  See why this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands among Italy’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Later you’ll be treated to an incredible culinary experience at the renowned Sorrentino Vini Winery, nestled at the foot of majestic Mount Vesuvius. Savor the exquisite flavors of a delectable lunch paired with wine before arriving Salerno, a charming city on the Gulf of Salerno. This beloved city boasts some of Italy’s oldest neighborhoods, where residents still speak an ancient dialect that even fluent Italians struggle to comprehend. It is currently a cherished “well-kept” secret and increasingly becoming one of the most popular city-stays for visitors returning to the Amalfi Coast! Check into the Grand Hotel Salerno for a 5-nights featuring rooms with stunning sea views from your private terrace, and just a short walk to a tree-lined coastal promenade of captivating Campania! (B,L)

Thu, Oct 3: Voyage by boat to Positano, a seaside paradise known for its romantic allure, perched on a cliff, with the Transita Tower serving as a grand emblem of its illustrious past. On one side, behold the serene shores of Fornillo Beach, on the other, the turquoise crust of Spiaggia Grande. Situated opposite Positano is the enchanting Archipelago of Li Galli, said to be the mythical dwelling place of Homer’s Sirens from the trials of Odysseus. Relive the profound historical significance of Valle dei Mulini, the birthplace of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi. Explore the Civic Museum and the town’s  formidable naval force whose influence dates back to the 11th century and discover the impact of the world’s inaugural maritime code, the Tavole Amalfitane, which regulated Mediterranean shipping for countless generations. Admire the bronze doors and imposing facade of the Cathedral of Sant’ Andrea, then pause to honor the final resting place of the notable inhabitants of the town at the Cloister of Paradise. Tucked away along the scenic route lies a different kind of historical experience: Amalfi’s Paper Museum. This extraordinary attraction transports its visitors to a bygone era and fascinating cornerstone of paper production. Discover an impressive collection of ancient tools and machinery showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship within a magnificent 13th-century cavern. (B)

Fri, Oct 4: Journey to Paestum, another remarkable UNESCO Heritage Site, unraveling in a tapestry of archaeological history that flourished under the reign of the Greeks. Stroll along the illustrious Via Sacra, an awe-inspiring testament to the force of time, showcasing its impeccably preserved temples. Uncover the gripping tale of a land that was once overlooked and now transformed into a wealth of farming history at the Museum of Farming Culture.  Not only does Paestum boast its ancient Greek ruins, it is proudly the birthplace of globally acclaimed buffalo mozzarella. Visit Tenuta Vannulo, Italy’s most extravagant mozzarella factory. Observe the unexpectedly lavish treatment of water buffalo that more resembles the grandeur of a magnificent spa. Follow a local expert through the fascinating intricacies that go into crafting this delicate cheese and witness leather artisans at work transforming buffalo hide into an exquisite collection of hand-crafted products. Depart Paestum for Sorrento and taste why some of the best chefs in the world are drawn to her coast with an authentic Italian feast in a popular coastal restaurant. (B,D)

Sat, Oct 5:  Sail across the crystal-clear waters to the glamorous Isle of Capri, a playground for the fashionably affluent. Begin your journey in Anacapri, a charming village nestled in the upper part of the island. Delight in the postcard worthy views unfolding before your eyes. Continue on to  the irresistible intrigue of the Village of Capri and meander through the rustic alleys, weaving along the passageways infused with Moorish appeal. Witness incredible views of Marina Piccola, the Faraglioni rocks, and Tragara’s Point from Augustus Gardens, an engineering marvel of meticulously landscaped flower-filled terraces.  (B)

Sun, Oct 6: Today, Sorrento is all yours, solely dedicated to your exploration. Wander the charming cobblestone streets where lemon groves adorn the surroundings, and the tantalizing scent of citrus fills the air. Savor the local fare featuring the jewel in Sorrento’s culinary crown, shellfish, and indulge in the traditional Italian architecture, idyllic views, and rich character of her coastal waterfront.  (B)

Mon, Oct 7: Depart for the little-known town of Caserta, home to a grandiose palace that rivals that of Versailles. Survey the magnificent symbol of baroque architecture, royal power, and a revelation of Italian history at the 18th-century Royal Palace.  Exceptionally created by the Bourbon King Charles III, indubitably the world’s largest palace, complete with a monumental complex of parks, gardens, and the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli. Progress through the brilliance of this hidden gem nestled in a town that is its own sight to see and a testament to the eloquent expression of opulence exceptionally integrated into its natural setting, bearing witness to its declaration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Depart the baroque masterpiece of Caserta for Rome, the epicenter of the baroque cultural movement, and check into the elegant H0tel Meridien Visconti for your final three nights. (B)

Tue, Oct. 8:  Experience the historical character of Baroque Rome starting with the Piazza Navona, an exquisite square boasting an array of Rome’s renowned fountains and exuding  a sheer beauty rendering it one of the most awe-inspiring squares in Rome. Affirm the perpetual narrative of  the flawlessly constructed Pantheon as the most well-preserved and complete of Rome’s ancient buildings. Take a moment to soak in the romantic atmosphere of Rome’s oldest fountain, the iconic Trevi Fountain, and learn about the intricate sculptures that embellish this masterpiece. Listen to riveting anecdotes of the hidden essence beneath the longest and widest staircase in Europe, the famous Spanish Steps. Master the art of Italian Cuisine with a hands on cooking class with  Chef Matteo. (B,D)

Wed, Oct. 9: Today investigates a list of hidden gems in Rome, starting with a genius of engineering and architecture, the Baths of Caracalla. These extraordinary baths are the grandest example of large imperial baths and stand as evidence of Rome’s largest thermal complexes of antiquity. Sample culture without the crowds at the Capitoline Museums, first in the world to have opened their doors to the public during the 15^th century. Situated atop the Capitoline Hill, this museum complex not only offers commanding views of the Eternal City, but also a noteworthy history packed with a vast and varied collection of archaeological artifacts that dates back to 1471. Witness the first collection of bronze statues, gifted by Pope Sisto IV, marking the beginning of an extraordinary collection and transforming it into one of the oldest museums in the world. The second floor offers a mesmerizing journey through the evolution of art with their earliest public collection of paintings, Pinacoteca Capitolina, chronologically arranged from the late Middle Ages to the 18th century. Wrap up an incredible journey with a farewell feast at the exquisite Tanagra restaurant. Experience the ultimate indulgence of Italian delicacies and enchanting melodies for a truly unforgettable affair to treasure for a lifetime. (B,D)

Thu, Oct. 10: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Rome’s airport for your return flight. (B)