For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Snapshots of Rome
Relax and take in the sights of Rome, admiring historic monuments and glorious architecture on a leisurely drive.
The Etruscan Necropolises of Tarquinia
Seek a deeper understanding of Italy’s history on this outing, ideal for lovers of archaeology.
Sistine Chapel & Vatican City
View the transcendent wonders of Vatican City, with a local guide along to provide insight.
Picturesque Ostia
Enter the onetime busiest port of the ancient world for a remarkable look at a city unearthed from time’s ravages.
Rome & Private Visit of the Sistine Chapel
Combine the best of Rome with a unique opportunity to visit the breath-taking Sistine Chapel after hours.
Ancient Rome & Colosseum Visit
Delve into ancient Rome in depth, including a guided, small group visit inside the famous Colosseum.
Highlights of Rome & the Colosseum
Step inside Rome’s magnificent centerpieces, the Colosseum and Roman Forum, as you explore the city’s highlights.
Treasures of Rome Along the Tiber River
Uncover the best of Rome’s charming hidden gems.
Eternal Rome
Immerse yourself in ancient Rome, admiring the grandeur of its historic buildings, monuments and classical art.
Highlights of Rome & the Roman Forum
Step inside the Roman Forum, once the beating heart of ancient Rome, and take in the city’s highlights.
Charming Orvieto
Visit one of Italy’s most stunning Gothic churches in a striking hilltop medieval city.
Viterbo: City of Popes & Tuscian Countryside
Discover two beautiful medieval towns and visit one of the region’s most famous wineries for a tasting.
Villa Adriana & Villa D'Este
Discover two UNESCO-listed Roman villas, including a spectacular garden that inspired Versailles.
The Appian Way
Walk a Roman Republic-era road to see subterranean tombs and visit ruins of ancient aqueducts in the countryside.
Pasta Cooking Class in Castel Gandolfo
See formal Renaissance gardens in a stunning town, then learn to cook authentic Italian pasta from scratch.
Castel Gandolfo & Countryside Wine Tasting
Visit Renaissance gardens in a stunning town, then explore a family owned vineyard before lunch and a wine tasting.
Scenic Rome & the Colosseum
Enjoy a final glimpse of Rome’s landmarks during a scenic drive to view historic monuments and landmarks.
Bracciano’s Castle & Carbonara Tasting
Discover the historic Orsini-Odescalchi Castle and dine on delicious carbonara, a beloved local dish.
Private Excursion: Sistine Chapel & Vatican City
View the transcendent wonders of Vatican City during a private, small group experience with a local guide.
Videos
At Home in Rome with guide Franco Assorgi
Journey along the ancient lanes of Rome with local guide Franco Assorgi and get a glimpse of the beauty and magnificence of the “Eternal City.” Marvel at some of the Western world’s most famous sights as Franco takes us through Italy’s capital, stopping along the way to offer intriguing insights and pointing out hidden gems that you can explore during your visit to Rome.
Uncover the storied history of ancient Rome
To conclude our week in the Western Mediterranean, join Jean as she travels through the “Eternal City,” offering you a fascinating glimpse of Roman history, from the iconic Pantheon to the intriguing Aventine Hill. Then, deepen your knowledge of Vatican City when Jean’s Roman tour concludes on the hallowed grounds of St. Peter's Square, the beautiful piazza watched over by St. Peter's Basilica.
Sketch St. Peter’s Basilica with Professor Mark Keane
Join your host, Professor Mark Keane, for an engaging, draw-along session focused on a masterpiece of Renaissance and baroque architecture—St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Designed by a succession of legendary architects, from Michelangelo to Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the basilica is a testament to centuries of artistic vision. Professor Keane unpacks its architectural evolution and guides us through a hands-on drawing lesson, teaching us how to capture the iconic dome’s vast proportions on a two-dimensional page with perspective techniques. Learn about vanishing points and how to create depth and scale just as master architects once did.
The Amalfi Coast’s Tasty Limoncello
This tangy liqueur has long been one of Italy’s favorite after-dinner drinks. Join Karine to discover how simple it is to make this refreshing and iconic Sorrento digestif at home.
The Origins of Opera
What has made opera such a popular and enduring art form? Join Karine as she takes you behind the scenes of this distinctly Italian creation at its source—the opera houses of Italy.
Italy’s Fabled Vespa Scooter
As iconic as Rome’s Colosseum or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy’s fabled Vespa is central to Italy’s cultural identity. Learn the history of this perennial Italian motor scooter.
Italian Language Lesson
Learn a few useful Italian words and phrases with Elena, your Viking tutor. Salute!
Inside Italy’s Coffee Culture
If you cannot tell your macchiato from your espresso corto or you do not know why you should drink your coffee standing, join Karine and friends to explore Italy’s thriving coffee culture.
Fresh Pasta: Fast, Fun and Easy!
Venture into the Tuscan countryside to learn the art of making fresh pasta. Under the watchful eye of a delightful Italian mama, Karine learns the secrets of this Italian favorite.
Baci: the Original Chocolate Kiss
Karine joins Chocolate Master Massimiliano Guidubaldi at the Perugina School of Chocolate to learn to make Baci, Italy’s original chocolate “kiss,” invented on Valentine’s Day in 1922.
