Undiscovered Italy II

Duration:
10 Days, April 22 - May 1, 2025 (waitlist)

Price:
From $4,995 from Washington, DC and other gateways

Tour Operator:
Jet Vacations

The gentle breezes off the Mediterranean in central Italy are balmy and fragrant in April, creating an idyllic setting for exploration and adventure. On the latest incarnation of our popular Undiscovered Italy series, we will take advantage of the vast store of art, culture, and history in Italy’s Umbria and Le Marche regions. The lovely towns and cities we will visit are celebrated for their warm hospitality and abundant sunshine as well as town squares dominated by Romanesque and Baroque cathedrals and monuments offering clues to Italy’s storied past.

Our journey begins along the shores of Lake Trasimeno, where the medieval town of Passignano awaits with its impressive fortifications and spectacular views. A short boat cruise to Isola Maggiore reveals extraordinary 14th and 16th century architecture and paintings. We will explore the hillside town of Spello; Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis; and Perugia, Umbria’s capital city and a gastronome’s paradise. Later, in Bevagna, Montefalco, and Spoleto, our journey includes an abundance of Roman monuments, renowned wines, and medieval wonders.

As we continue on to Le Marche, we will discover the secrets of Urbisaglia, Macerata, Ascoli Piceno, and Ripatransone, including a 12th century Cistercian abbey, the local delicacy called olive all’Ascolana, a city center built of ivory-white travertine, and a fifth-generation winery with panoramic views. Our visit to this beautiful region also includes time in Recanati, the birthplace of Italian philosopher and poet Giacomo Leopardi, and Serra San Quirico, known for its small “coppertelle” arches that run along the city walls. We will conclude our tour of Undiscovered Italy with a drive along the Conero Riviera, basking in stunning coastal vistas.

Sought-after W&L faculty host George Bent will accompany this tour. His incomparable knowledge of medieval and Renaissance art and architecture makes this tour a rare opportunity to combine central Italy’s breathtaking natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history with a remarkable learning experience. Register today as we expect this tour to fill quickly!

Traveling With You

George Bent, W&L’s Sidney Gause Childress Professor in the Arts, will host this tour. His incomparable knowledge of medieval and Renaissance art and architecture makes this tour a rare opportunity to combine central Italy’s breathtaking natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history with a remarkable learning experience. Register today as we expect this tour to fill quickly!