Venice Itinerary

Day 1 - September 25

Depart USA for Venice

Day 2 - September 26

Upon arrival at the Marco Polo Venice Airport, private motor launches will be waiting for the invigorating water transfer to the Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort.

You'll have the afternoon at leisure to settle in and enjoy your luxurious surroundings before meeting and greeting new and old friends at the Carpenter Welcome Evening.

Day 3 - September 27

Walking Tour of Venice. We begin with an orientation of St. Mark’s Square -- the most famous square in Europe. Next we'll visit St. Mark's Basilica with the spiritual, all-pervading light of its golden mosaics and its sumptuously colored marble floor. Here we will be introduced to the pervading theme of Venice's intense relations with Constantinople and the Eastern World. When we enter Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), built in Venetian Gothic style, and one of the main landmarks of the city of Venice, you'll be awe struck by the rich decor. We'll cross the infamous Bridge of Sighs and enter the Prisons, still in use until 1922. Then we'll head back to the Palace for a last view of the majestic Giants’ Staircase.

Seek out a charming restaurant for lunch, marvel at the bustling street scene and unique architecture, shop for memorable articles made by superb Venetian craftsmen.

Our evening begins with a pre-dinner aperitif at Caffé Florian, one of the oldest and most famous cafes in Italy, located in St. Mark's Square. Here we will enjoy a performance by the Caffé Florian's orchestra. Following the performance, you will enjoy dinner at one of Venice's most famous restaurants.

Day 4- September 28

After a full breakfast at the hotel, you'll have the morning at leisure.

A visit to Venice is not complete without a delightful and lesurely cruise to the Lagoon Islands. This afternoon we'll visit three of the best known islands. Murano, renowned for its stunning glassmaking, still preserves the ancient techniques. Murano is a cluster of islands connected by bridges ... Cheerful Burano sports brightly colored houses. Lace making, fishing, and boat building account for the success of its inhabitants ... Torcello is considered the "Mother of Venice". First settled between the 5th and 7th centuries, we'll visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, found in 639.

Our very special dinner tonight is at Locanda Cipriani. In 1938 Giuseppe Cipriani, who also created the famous Harry’s Bar, was captivated by the beauty of Torcello and opened an inn. It quickly became a sought-after destination, attested to by the many illustrious guests it has attracted through the years. Its unique hospitality and excellent food have brought the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Charlie Chaplin, Paul Newman, and the entire royal family of England. Strolling musicians will accompany our dinner.

Day 5- September 29

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, after which you'll be transferred by high speed train from Venice to Florence. The train ride is a little over 2 hours.

Please note: the itinerary is subject to change.