Rome & Lisbon: Roman Empire Adventures

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1Arrival in Rome

   

   Welcome to Italy! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Arrive in Rome and check in to your centrally located accommodation.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Spend your first day wandering the historic city center:
   • Start with Piazza Navona, home to stunning fountains and vibrant atmosphere.
   • Walk to the Pantheon, a masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering.
   • Stroll through Campo de' Fiori or relax with a gelato at a nearby café.
   • Dinner suggestion: Savor authentic Roman pasta dishes like carbonara or cacio e pepe at a cozy trattoria.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

2. Day 2Colosseum with Arena (Included)

   

   Step Back in Time to Ancient Rome

   Begin your journey at the Touristation office, where you’ll pick up your tickets and enjoy a fascinating 25-minute multimedia video that brings ancient Rome to life. This immersive introduction lets you visualize the splendor of Roman ruins before stepping into history.

   Your adventure includes access to three iconic landmarks:

   • The Colosseum: Enter the largest amphitheater of the Roman Empire and stand on the Arena Floor, where gladiators once fought for glory. Imagine the roaring crowds and grandeur of public spectacles that captivated ancient audiences.

   • The Roman Forum: Stroll along the historic Via Sacra, the main thoroughfare of the Forum, where festivals and triumphal processions once filled the streets. Pay tribute at the Temple of Julius Caesar, where the legendary leader was cremated, a site still honored by visitors today.

   • Palatine Hill: Discover the very birthplace of Rome. This hill, steeped in legend, was home to emperors and kings. Explore the ruins of ancient palaces and enjoy panoramic views of the Forum and the Circus Maximus.

   This experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of the Roman Empire, blending history, legend, and breathtaking architecture.

3. Day 3Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and the St Peter's Basilica (Included)

   

   Your Vatican Adventure

   Your experience begins with a skip-the-line visit to the Vatican Gardens. Relax on a minibus ride, enjoying an audio guide that reveals fascinating insights into these lush and historic grounds. Next, make your way to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, where centuries of art await. Be sure to take in the Raphael Rooms, the Belvedere Torso, and the unforgettable Sistine Chapel frescoes. Complete your journey at St. Peter’s Basilica, where an audio-guided tour takes you through its golden ceilings, intricate marble works, and Bernini’s masterpieces, including the Baldacchino and Cathedra Petri. Don’t miss Michelangelo’s Pietà, a sculptural treasure that embodies Renaissance brilliance.

   Highlights

   • Skip the lines and dive into the rich history of Vatican City, one of the most legendary places in the world.
   • Admire the serene beauty of the Vatican Gardens on a comfortable minibus ride with a multilingual audio guide.
   • Marvel at iconic masterpieces, including the Raphael Rooms, Gallery of Maps, and Caravaggio's Deposition.
   • Stand in awe of Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel.
   • Explore the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, a Renaissance architectural gem.
4. Day 4Rome

   

   Suggestion for the day: Hidden Gems

   • Visit the Borghese Gallery: Explore the Borghese Gallery, one of Rome’s finest museums, housing an extraordinary collection of art, including works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Stroll through the lush Borghese Gardens afterward.
   • Stroll through Trastevere: Head to the charming neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow streets, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning medieval churches like Santa Maria in Trastevere. Enjoy some time wandering and soaking up the lively ambiance.
   • Sunset at Gianicolo Hill: For a peaceful end to your day, make your way to Gianicolo Hill for one of the best panoramic views of Rome. Watch the sun set over the city’s rooftops and landmarks, offering an unforgettable vista.
   • Dinner in Trastevere: Finish your day with a traditional Roman dinner in Trastevere. Choose from a variety of trattorias offering classic Roman dishes such as cacio e pepe or saltimbocca alla romana.
5. Day 5Flight to Lisbon

   

   Welcome to Portugal! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Suggestion for the day:

   Lace up your walking shoes and embark on a journey through Lisbon's captivating historical neighborhoods. It’s time to explore Lisbon's vibrant neighborhoods on foot.

   • Start in Chiado, a charming district with elegant shops and cafes. Don't miss Livraria Bertrand, a historic bookstore.
   • Move to Baixa, the bustling downtown area with Praça do Comércio, a grand waterfront square. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for city views.
   • Immerse yourself in Bairro Alto's lively nightlife scene. Wander its maze-like streets filled with bars, restaurants, and traditional Fado music venues.

   Can't-Miss Sights:

   • São Roque Church: Admire its opulent interior.
   • São Pedro de Alcântara Garden: Relax and enjoy panoramic views.
   • Ruins of Carmo Church: Reflect on Lisbon's history.
   • Santa Catarina Viewpoint: Capture stunning cityscapes.
   • Luís de Camões Square: Pay homage to Portugal's literary icon.
   • Terreiro do Paço: Soak in the lively atmosphere of this vast waterfront square.
6. Day 6 Roman Town of Évora Tour (Included)

   

   We want to take you inside a time machine and arrive back a few centuries ago, as our first stop is the former Roman town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, where Roman, Visigoth, Muslim, and Portuguese influences have left their mark.

   • In Évora, history crosses paths with us in every corner, forming a fascinating puzzle of historical monuments that are over 1000 years old. The walking tour starts at São Francisco Church and the Chapel of Bones, one of the must-see places in Évora.
   • Next, we head to the medieval heart of the city, where you'll find the magnificent Cathedral (the largest in Portugal), alongside other antique landmarks such as the Roman Temple — a stunning remnant of the Roman era that offers a glimpse into the town’s ancient past — and the Roman Baths, a testament to the sophisticated lifestyle of its time.
   • The journey continues to the medieval town of Arraiolos, renowned for its carpets, olive oil, and chicken patties. We’ll visit CITA (Arraiolos Tapestry Museum) to explore this local craft, indulge in a tasting of regional products, and take a tour of the town’s historic medieval castle.
7. Day 7Fado Food & Wine in Alfama (Included)

   

   As twilight paints the city in a golden glow, your journey transforms. Indulge in a delectable dinner at a charming, authentic restaurant. As you savor the local flavors, let the captivating sounds of Fado music wash over you. This traditional Portuguese genre, with its melancholic beauty, transcends words. Experience the soul of Fado through its melodies, best enjoyed in respectful silence.

    

8. Day 8Return Flight Home

   

   We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

   Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!