Milan is a mecca for Italian fashionistas, famous for its innovative design and stylish flair. Venture inside the city’s hulking Gothic cathedral, as well as its cathedral to capitalism, Europe’s oldest shopping arcade. Alternatively, you can join a Masterpiece Collection optional excursion to Lake Como and Bellagio.

En route to Venice, you’ll stop in the literary hometown of Shakespeare’s famously star-crossed teen lovers to see the sights. Later, enjoy lunch at a historic wine estate owned by descendants of Dante and learn about one of the most unique Italian wines, Amarone di Valpolicella.

Known for its agriculture – hundreds of artichoke fields, vineyards and fruit trees, Mazzorbo is a sister island to Burano.

Spend the day exploring the northern lagoon of Venice and its captivating islands. Start with a visit to Torcello’s famous basilica with an art historian, then stroll through the agricultural island of Mazzorbo and the rainbow-hued island of Burano during your free time after lunch. Alternatively, you can take the afternoon to see the renowned glassblowing artisans of Murano at work.

Visitors to Burano are fascinated by the vibrant colors on display – most notably the colored homes which reflect onto the green waters of the channels. Other notable sights on this idyllic island include the Oblique Bell Tower and elderly ladies chatting and laughing while embroidering Burano lace.

Often referred to as “Little Venice,” Chioggia is 25 miles south of Venice, on the southern side of the Lagoon of Venice. Chioggia is laced with canals and bussling main streets lined with shops, markets and rustic buildings. Visit the Piazetta Vigo and Bridge, Clock Tower, and Duomo or cathedral, complete with marble, gold and stained glass. A fishing town and port, Chioggia also features a sandy beach at Sottomarina, and many site-seeing locations, shopping opportunities, and restaurants to enjoy authentic, local cuisine.

As your water taxi glides past narrow side canals and the Canal Grande, you’ll arrive in style at the Rialto Bridge. The iconic stone arch bridge sits at the narrowest point of the Canal Grande and holds numerous shops and restaurants.

After disembarking the ship this morning, we’ll make our way by train to the capital city of Rome. Check into the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome hotel (or similar) and, if you’d like, you can join an Orientation Walk of the neighborhood around the hotel with your Local Host.