Italy & Austria: Cross-Country Skiing the Dolomites​

Evidence of a bustling Roman metropolis – as Verona was in the first century B.C. – is all over in this city’s streets, amphitheaters, doorways, bridges and ancient city walls. Its most famous monument, the Arena -- so well preserved and used today for unforgettable opera and theatre performances-- is the third largest amphitheater in the world. In the 13th century, when medieval Verona was dominated by the powerful and liberal Scaligeri family, it became an even richer hub of trade and commerce as well as a center of culture and art, modeled after Venice. During your independent stay, you might visit the purported houses of the real-life characters that Shakespeare used as his inspiration for Romeo and Juliet. Their sad story made was set here. Explore the Palace of Reason, the lively medieval squares of Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe, or the fine art gallery housed in the Castelvecchio fortress. Verona is a very manageable city, easy to stroll and enjoy for its large quiet pedestrian areas and streets, the quiet flow of the river Adige, and its attractive and fashionable population. You’re sure to rub elbows with these friendly Veronese as they linger in a lively café tasting a traditional vanilla meringue or chocolate hazelnut cookie while sipping a Veronese caffé.

Available only with the Air Inclusive package.

Single Supplement: $145  

Day 1 - Remain in Verona for your optional extension.

If you have chosen the optional Post-Trip Extension, you have another day to discover the city. Or, perhaps you’ll branch out and take a 40-minute train to Padua, a beautiful Renaissance art city. The centerpiece here is undoubtedly the Scrovegni Chapel, a 14th-century masterpiece reminiscent of a small Sistine Chapel. Its walls are covered with frescoes by Giotto.

Day 2 - Independent exploration of Verona and surroundings.

Day 3 - Depart for the U.S.