Secrets of the Roman Empire – Italy
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
🔹 Guided tours of Rome, Pompeii & Herculaneum
🔹 Exclusive access to underground ruins
🔹 Wine & dining experiences in historic settings
$3,500
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
🔹 Guided tours of Rome, Pompeii & Herculaneum
🔹 Exclusive access to underground ruins
🔹 Wine & dining experiences in historic settings
Step back in time and explore the awe-inspiring remnants of the Roman Empire with the Secrets of the Roman Empire tour. This exclusive journey through Italy allows you to uncover the grandeur of ancient Rome, the shocking devastation of Pompeii, and the remarkable ruins of Herculaneum, all while enjoying exclusive access to some of the most well-preserved underground sites. Along the way, indulge in Italy’s rich culinary and wine traditions with unique dining experiences set in historic locations. Discover a hidden side of Italy, and witness the legacy of the Roman Empire in an unforgettable way.
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
Arrive in Rome, Italy’s capital city, known as the “Eternal City.”
Your personal guide will meet you at the airport for a private transfer to your hotel.
Enjoy a relaxing evening to get settled in or take a leisurely walk through Rome's charming streets.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 2: Ancient Rome – Colosseum & Roman Forum
Start your adventure with a full-day tour of ancient Rome, including an in-depth visit to the Colosseum, the grand amphitheater where gladiators fought, and the Roman Forum, once the heart of Roman politics and commerce.
Visit the Pantheon, an architectural marvel, and the Capitoline Hill, offering stunning views of the Roman Forum.
Evening at leisure or explore Rome's vibrant piazzas and cafes.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 3: Underground Rome – Catacombs & San Clemente Basilica
Explore the underground world of Rome, beginning with a visit to the Catacombs of San Callisto, an ancient burial site used by early Christians.
Next, head to the Basilica of San Clemente, a multi-layered church that reveals layers of ancient Roman buildings and structures beneath.
After a day of discoveries, enjoy a traditional Roman dinner in a historic setting, accompanied by fine Italian wines.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 4: Rome – Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica
Visit the Vatican Museums, home to one of the world’s most impressive art collections, and see the stunning Sistine Chapel with its Michelangelo masterpiece.
Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome.
Evening at leisure to explore the vibrant Trastevere district or enjoy a gelato by the Trevi Fountain.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 5: Travel to Pompeii – Ancient City Ruins
After breakfast, take a high-speed train to Naples, followed by a transfer to Pompeii.
Spend the afternoon exploring the ruins of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Visit the well-preserved Villa of the Mysteries, famous for its detailed frescoes depicting initiation rituals.
Explore the Forum, theaters, houses, and baths, all preserved beneath layers of volcanic ash.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in Pompeii.
Overnight in Pompeii.
Day 6: Pompeii & Herculaneum – Roman Life Under Ash
Visit the ruins of Herculaneum, another ancient Roman city destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius. Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was preserved under a layer of pyroclastic flow, making it one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world.
Explore the beautifully preserved homes, intricate mosaics, and stunning frescoes.
Afternoon visit to the Villa of the Papyri, where thousands of ancient scrolls have been recovered.
Evening dinner in an ancient Roman villa, dining in a unique setting with traditional Roman food and wine.
Overnight in Pompeii.
Day 7: Amalfi Coast & Roman Wine Experience
Take a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast, known for its stunning coastal views, picturesque villages, and dramatic cliffs.
Visit a historic Roman vineyard where you’ll experience a private wine-tasting session, learning about ancient Roman wine-making techniques.
Savor a multi-course meal made from traditional Roman recipes in a villa overlooking the Mediterranean.
Return to Pompeii for an overnight stay.
Day 8: Return to Rome – Roman Dining Experience
Return to Rome and enjoy a leisurely afternoon shopping or visiting any remaining sites on your list.
In the evening, enjoy a Roman dining experience, where you’ll dine at a famous historical location, savoring Roman-inspired dishes paired with fine wines.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 9: Departure from Rome
Depending on your flight time, enjoy some free time to explore Rome’s vibrant markets and cafes before being transferred to the airport for your departure.
The Roman Empire, at its peak, spanned from Britain in the north to Egypt in the south, and from Spain in the west to Iraq in the east. Ancient Rome was known for its advanced engineering, military prowess, and innovative architecture. The Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Colosseum are among the world’s most iconic symbols of Roman civilization.
Pompeii and Herculaneum are two of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world, offering an extraordinary glimpse into daily Roman life before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Pompeii’s streets, homes, and public buildings are remarkably well-preserved, allowing visitors to walk through the same areas where Romans once lived. Herculaneum, though smaller, is often considered even better preserved due to the way the volcanic eruption entombed the city.
Cuisine in Rome and Southern Italy is world-renowned for its flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple yet delicious dishes. Roman wine, particularly from the surrounding Lazio region, is integral to the local culture.