See Italy Like You Always Imagined with Adventures by Disney

This week in honor of the new 2016 dates being released for Adventures by Disney we are going to provide a more in-depth look at some of the most popular and unique adventures available. With Adventures by Disney you truly do get exposed to cultures and experiences in ways you thought were not probable on vacation, but always dreamed were possible.

Perhaps the most popular adventure of all is the Viva Italia adventure. This 9 day, 8 night trip takes you on a journey through Rome, Florence, Venice, and Tuscany. You're exposed to the beauty and grandeur of Italy's history and culture-- experiencing old world charm in an equally relaxing, luxurious, and adventurous manner.

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On the Adventures by Disney Viva Italia trip you get the opportunity to embrace a simpler way of life as you travel through this Old World country steeped in rich traditions and glorious history.

Rome

Your journey begins in the ancient city once considered the center of the known world. Your hotel is a contemporary and elegant Italian hotel situated in the heart of the old city.  Nearby you will find some of Rome's best known treasures-- 
St. Peter's Basilica, Castel St. Angelo and the Vatican. Your first night features an amazing welcome dinner and an opportunity to meet your fellow adventurers.

Your second day begins with an opportunity to explore the city center, home to the famed Spanish Steps, the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain. At the fountain you can, as the legend dictates, ensure your return to Rome by tossing a coin into its waters. After a fabulous lunch you will receive a VIP tour of the Roman Colosseum, with a special hands on experience for Junior Adventurers.

Day three really focuses on one of the best known landmarks around Rome-- Vatican City. You are given a private tour of St Peter's Basilica, a marvel of Renaissance era architecture and beauty. You then get a private tour of Castel St. Angelo, the ancient fortress of the Pope. After both of these amazing tours you get the afternoon on your own.

But the night of day three has to be the highlight of this entire trip-- a private VIP night time tour of the Vatican Museum. The collection spans 25 centuries and is home to masterpieces by the greatest artists in history. Your local expert will also escort you into the Sistine Chapel for an intimate look at Michelangelo's magnificent achievement.

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Florence

After fully exploring and enjoying the Tuscan countryside, you are off to the magnificent city of Florence. In this quintessential Renaissance city you will get the opportunity to see Michelangelo's "David" followed by a walking tour of the city's famed Duomo. You will also receive a private tour of the Palazzo Vecchio, taking in its beautiful and historic art. You will also get the night to freely explore the city made so famous by Dante.

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Tuscan Countryside

Next up is two days in the Tuscan countryside. Here you will stay at Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda, a beautiful hotel tucked away in a Tuscan village surrounded by vineyards and villas. On the way you will stop at Orvieto, a fortified medieval settlement crowned with the magnificent Cathedral of St John.

For the next two days you will explore the Tuscan countryside to its fullest. From lunch at a private Italian villa, to a course in pasta making, and a wine tasting event, you will get to explore what make this region so beautiful and amazing. And do not worry, there are amazing activities planned for Junior Adventurers that will ensure they have fun and you fully enjoy the more adult experiences!

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Venice

After spending a day and evening in Florence, you are off to the city of gondola's-- Venice! For the final two days of your trip you will become immersed in the city that seems to rise out of the ocean.

This part of your trip begins with you exploring the City of Canals on a private gondola ride along its famed waterways. From here you will take a tour of the Piazza San Marco and Basilica, receiving an amazing private tour the brings the city's beautiful architecture to life. 

Your second day in Venice features a tour of the palace of the famed Doges-- the rulers of Venice for several centuries. Within these famed walls you will experience amazing art while Junior Adventurers get the opportunity to partake in a sleuth experience. You will then get to experience a truly Venetian tradition-- the making of Carnevale masks.

The trip to Venice concludes with the afternoon on your own to explore the city and the "good bye" dinner, which brings all the adventurers together to reminisce on this vacation of a lifetime.

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An Experience of a Lifetime

There truly is no better way to experience the world than with an Adventures by Disney vacation. The Viva Italia adventure is the cream-of-the-crop and truly exemplifies the Adventures by Disney difference.

Jenn Whitney is a travel enthusiast and mother of four. Her goal is to share her experiences and knowledge to help families plan amazing vacations around the world. Jenn is the owner of Whitney World Travel, a boutique family and luxury travel agency, and an Accredited Cruise Counselor. You can contact Jenn by e-mail at [email protected]