Rome is brimming with graceful piazzas and historic enclaves. Across which, some 2,000 fountains feature and some stand out as sculptural masterpieces. The most famous is the baroque Trevi Fountain, whose coin-toss legend may secure a return trip to the "Eternal City." In Piazza Navona, Bernini’s Fountain of Four Rivers stands, while in front of the Pantheon, the Fontana del Pantheon features an obelisk from the period of Ramses II (the 13th century BC) reaching skyward from a base adorned by four dolphins.
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.
Highlights of Rome & the Colosseum
Step inside Rome’s magnificent centerpieces, the Colosseum and Roman Forum, as you explore the city’s highlights.
Ancient Rome & Colosseum Visit
Delve into ancient Rome in depth, including a guided, small group visit inside the famous Colosseum.
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.
Treasures of Rome Along the Tiber River
Uncover the best of Rome’s charming hidden gems during visits to several historic landmarks.
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.
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.
Discover a classic Roman dish on our Italian Sojourn ocean voyage
Join renowned Italian chef Valentina Harris for a guided tour and cooking demonstration inspired by her recent voyage with us on our Italian Sojourn itinerary. Follow Chef Harris on a stroll through historic Rome, then watch her prepare vitello tonnato, a classic Roman antipasto of poached veal served with a rich tuna mayonnaise sauce. As she walks us through this iconic recipe, she also shares tips on preparing other traditional Italian dishes with ease and flair.
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.
Karine Cooks: Risotto at Lake Como, Italy
Learn how Italians prepare their delicious risotto con funghi porcini and the bubbly addition that gives this particular version a delightfully unique taste.
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.