Italy from Food to Fortress: An Intimate Tour Through Time

Fly overnight to Rome, Italy, and be met by the Stone & Compass staff as you arrive and check into your hotel.

Step back to the age of gladiators with a visit the Coliseum. Wander around the arena and appreciate the skill it took to build such a structure in the era of the Roman Empire. In the afternoon continue the tour through archeological and historical sites from the Roman Empire led by our own private archaeologist guide.

Learn the history of the Roman Empire outside of textbooks by visiting the National Museum and seeing the archeological sites with your own eyes. After lunch, it’s off to visit the markets, cafes, and cobblestone roads of Rome where you can pick up traditional souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Today we will find ourselves in the smallest country in the world, the Vatican. Observe the seat of the Catholic Church Explore the home of the Pope, Vatican City. We will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museum. Admire the artwork of Renaissance and Baroque artists as you explore the small country that is the Vatican.

Travel to the seaside town of Naples and enjoy an afternoon exploring the history of the town. Explore “underneath” the ancient city as we tour underground waterways and an old Roman theatre and wander deep into the ancient catacombs. In the afternoon head to the Museo Cappella Sansevero and view the incredible sculptures. Dine along the waterfront in a traditional café.

Travel to Pompeii; this UNESCO world heritage site was once a prosperous Roman city but was destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Spend the day exploring the excavation of the once great city and admire the history preserved beneath the ash.

Travel to Palermo, Sicily

Enjoy a day of exploration in Palermo. Follow along quaint pathways that lead to local cafes and endearing restaurants with some of the best traditional foods. In the afternoon, learn the trade of traditional Sicilian cooking in a private cooking class that culminates in a dinner under the stars.

Begin the day at an olive plantation and winery. Test your knowledge of wine and newfound expertise in Sicilian cuisine with a private tasting of wine and traditional Sicilian appetizers. Step back in time as we head out into the countryside and explore the amazing island. We will spend the afternoon visiting archaeological sites that date back to before the Roman Empire. In the afternoon we will tour a wonderful villa and return to Palermo for dinner.

Enjoy one last glimpse of this amazing country as you enjoy breakfast then it is off to home with memories that will last a lifetime.