A Taste of Rome - CV13

This tour is designed for guests who would like a limited guided tour with free time to explore Rome at leisure. The tour begins with a drive through the Etruscan countryside. Once in Rome, you will be dropped off at a designated point to explore or shop on your own and have fun in the Eternal City. The guide will advise you at what time to meet again to continue the tour.

Visit one of the highlights of Vatican City; St. Peter's Basilica, one of Christendom's most significant churches. Construction began in 1452 on the site where St. Peter was buried. During the next 200 years, such famous masters as Bramante, Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini worked on its design and created an unparalleled masterpiece. Inside view Michelangelo's "Pieta" and the 85-foot-high Bernini Pulpit.

At St. Peter's In Chains Cathedral, you can admire one of the many masterpieces created by Michelangelo, the famous statue of Moses. This majestic bearded figure is depicted holding the tablets of the Ten Commandments. Continue by walking to the Roman Colosseum, one of the most important monuments of ancient Rome. A masterpiece of classical architecture, the Colosseum is an enormous amphitheater where gladiators, Christians and wild beasts once battled to the death in front of 50,000 spectators. There, you'll have time for photographs of its exterior. Re-board the bus for the drive back to the ship. Please note that lunch is at the guest's own expense.

Note: An escort will be on the coach during the trip to/from Rome and a local guide will be met once in Rome for the half day guided portion of the tour. Tour includes approximately 2.5 hours of independent exploration. Guests must be able to walk approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) over even and cobblestone surfaces with some steps. To enter both the Basilica and Cathedral, ladies must cover their shoulders; no shorts are allowed and attire should be conservative. Should St. Peter's Basilica have a special event or mass service, guides will give an outside explanation only and guests will the enter on their own. Should your guide determine that the queue at the St. Peter's Basilica security check point is longer than a 45 minute wait, they will forego the interior visit of the Basilica and provide you with a full explanation and description while outside. Depending upon the number of people in the Basilica, it may be closed for security reasons. These safety precautions are beyond the control of the local tour operator or Royal Caribbean. You will be provided more time during your shopping of free period to compensate for not entering the Basilica. The order of the tour may be reversed or altered depending on traffic or local conditions. The shopping hours and closure dates should be reviewed in the introduction section of Civitavecchia.

	Discover Renaissance Rome - CV11

This excursion will give you the opportunity to explore some of the less frequented sites in Rome, enjoying its piazzas and history on foot. Once in Rome, an official Roman guide will join you for your walking tour to the Spanish Steps. Completed in 1726, the steps create one of Rome's most dramatic and distinctive landmarks. You'll have a brief time there for photos before continuing to the Trevi Fountain where you will be able to "toss a coin in the fountain" ensuring your return to Rome. View the Pantheon from the outside and the have the possibility to see the tomb of Raphael independently. Walk through the square said to be the most beautiful in Rome, Piazza Navona. You can photograph the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, a fountain sculpted by Bernini representing the four great rivers of the world.

Afterwards, walk with your guide to St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world where your guide will provide a generous explanation at the exterior and before you enter independently. Among the many fine pieces of art and mosaics on display are Michelangelo's "Pieta" and the beautifully carved Bernini Pulpit. You will have time for shopping at St. Peter's Square before returning to Civitavecchia. An escort will be on the coach for the trip to/from Rome.

	Bike in Tarquinia & Ice Cream - CV37

Drive along the country roads through the beautiful landscapes for a short coach transfer to Tarquinia. At the entrance of the city walls, begin your cycling tour. Visit the Romanesque Church of San Francesco, the largest church in Tarquinia with its arches that reach great heights, before seeing the Town Hall Lodge, a XIV century building. The Cathedral with its impressive facade and the Palazzo dei Priori a massive urban fortification, was built in the first half of the XV century by Cardinal Vitelleschi who was a powerful plenipotentiary and supreme strategist of the Roman Curia. Continue the circuit to the southern part of the walls by the district of Santa Maria in Castello. At the end of the bike ride visit a local family-owned Gelateria and enjoy sampling a variety of different ice creams. Afterwards, there will be some free time to explore or shop in the medieval town before returning to the ship docked in Civitavecchia.

Note: There are approximately 2 miles of cycling over gravel and cobblestone surfaces on this tour. Participants must be in good physical condition, comfortable using hand brakes and be confident on a bicycle. Participants must be at least 60 inches (150 cm) in height. Participants should be aware that there are certain inherent risks involved in any cycling excursion. A parent or guardian must accompany children under the age of 18 years. Please wear the appropriate walking or sports shoes and dress comfortably. This tour will operate rain or shine; therefore, participants should take the appropriate weather gear with them, carry a backpack for belongings and take extra bottled water to stay hydrated during the ride. In case of special events taking place in the churches they may close without previous notice. On Sundays or religious holidays, shops will be closed.

	Bracciano Lake & Wine Tasting - CV62

Bracciano Lake is just a short hour's travel from Civitavecchia. Formed within an ancient volcanic crater the tranquil Lake mirrors its beautiful surroundings. Take a drive around the lake's perimeter to the tiny town of Anguillara. There, you'll have some free time to enjoy the ambiance of this quaint resort town. Stroll along the lakeside promenade, treat yourself to an ice cream, browse for souvenirs or just relax and enjoy your gentle surroundings.

After your visit to Lake Bracciano, proceed to Cerveteri, an area rich with the history of ancient Etruscan civilization, and have the opportunity to sample some of the local produce at a nearby wine producer. Savor the flavor of traditionally produced wine, olive oil and bread. You may even purchase some of these products to enjoy at home.

Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.5 mile over uneven, cobblestone surfaces with inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please remember to take local currency if wishing to shop. Shops may be closed during the peak seasonal times/dates, holidays and on Sundays.

	Masterpieces & Secrets of Rome - CV59

Your trip to Rome begins aboard the private train, the Roma Express. You are sure to enjoy your ride through the Italian countryside as you travel in comfort and style. Upon reaching the Eternal City, you will arrive at St. Peter's station near the Vatican where you will take a short walk to St. Peter's Square to board an open double-decker bus for a panoramic ride through ancient and historic Rome. You will see the Piazza Trilussa in the Trastevere district then it is on up to the top of one of the famous Seven Hills for panoramic views of the city from Gianicolo Park.

Your tour continues to the Cestia Pyramid, the exterior of St. Paul's Cathedral and then on to the legendary Appian Way. You will continue on to the ancient Public Baths of Caracalla, built by the Emperor in 206 AD and able to comfortably accommodate over 1,500 bathers at a time. Continue to the Basilica of St. John's Lateran, the oldest church and official Cathedral of Rome. The church houses many masterpieces and guards many secrets. You will visit the cloister and the baptistery that were built by Emperor Constantine.

Proceed to the exclusive chapel called the Sancta Sanctorum (the Holy of Holies) with its many precious relics such as the Holy Steps. These holy treasures have not been accessible to the general public since 1531 and the reign of Pope Leo X. After touring the Basilica, lunch is served in a local restaurant before proceeding to the Basilica de Santa Croce in Gerusalemme (Church of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem) reputedly housing relics from the Passion of Christ then on to the Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiore. From the basilica your tour will continue to the Presidential Palace and on to Tiber Island.

After the island it is on to St. Peter's Square. You will have the opportunity to visit St. Peter's Basilica, perhaps the most famous Catholic Church in the world. St. Peter's was begun in 1452 and worked on for the next 200 years by such Renaissance masters as Bramante, Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini. The design and construction is truly an unparalleled masterpiece. Of special interest is Bernini's bronze canopy that covers the altar and Michelangelo's stunning beautiful Pieta. Your day in the Eternal City of Rome comes to a close with your train ride back to Civitavecchia and your ship.

Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 2.25 miles over even and cobblestone surfaces with 80+ steps. This limited train tour has limited capacity but a minimum must be achieved in order for the tour to operate. The itinerary may be altered to accommodate local conditions. A strict dress code is enforced in the religious venues. Short pants, tank tops and revealing clothing are not acceptable. Guests may be required to check large bags, backpacks, video cameras and/or personal water bottles at designated checkpoints. This tour cannot accommodate children under the age of 6 years. Should a mass be taking place in St. Peter's Basilica, the entrance may be restricted. A snack service of bottled water and cookies will be served on the return train journey. Tour order may be reversed between groups.

You will be accompanied by an escort throughout the tour and a personal audio guide unit (provided by Opera Romana Pellegrinaggi) will provide narration throughout your tour and during the internal visits to St. Peter's Basilica and at St. John's Basilica and cloister.

	Etruscan Countryside & Villa Lante - CV47

This full day excursion is a perfect tour for those who would like to explore the flavors and history of Etruscan Italy. Pre-dating the Roman Empire, the Tuscia region has been the cradle of the Etruscan civilization and is evident in hilltop Tuscania, with its roots dating from the 9th century B.C., contrasting with the Renaissance gardens, fountains, pavilions and maze of Villa Lante.

Leaving the port area and heading north from Civitavecchia, you will view the warm colors of the Etruscan countryside as you make your way to Bagnaia. You will appreciate a visit to the Renaissance gardens of Villa Lante. To create these beautiful gardens, one of the greatest architects of the time, Vignola, was called upon. Fountains, pavilions and a box-tree maze were all combined to create a peaceful yet playful atmosphere. Walk through these inspirational and often whimsical gardens, taking time to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the setting. You will proceed to the lake of Bolsena where you will stop for views of the lake and the islands Bisentina and Martana. Lunch with wine will be served in a restaurant located alongside the lake of Bolsena.

Standing at the top of a rocky hill overlooking the Maremma region, Tuscania's Etruscan and Renaissance buildings have been beautifully restored and still reflect the Etruscan history. Walk with your guide through the narrow cobblestone lanes of this charming village and take in the views of the surrounding valleys.

	Tarquinia & Etruscan Ruins (Tombs) - CV19

The quaint village of Tarquinia was founded in 449 BC, and was once the most powerful city in Etruria before being defeated by the Roman Empire. Trace the history and achievements of the ancient culture of the Etruscans starting outside the city walls.

Visit the Etruscan National Museum, situated in a 15th-century, Gothic-style castle. The 3-story museum contains one of the most extensive collections of Etruscan artifacts in the world. See bronze artifacts and terra-cotta pieces as you explore room after room of historic treasure.

At the Etruscan Necropolis, the holy burial place of Etruscan Royalty, you'll see tombs, some of which display wall decorations, amazing examples of some of the earliest paintings in history. You will be given brief free time to explore Tarquinia at your leisure.

	Odescalchi Castle, Its Mysteries & Panoramic Drive - CV65

Steeped in history, the beauty of Bracciano is revealed during this wonderful exploration of Castle Odescalchi and the Etruscan countryside. Under the Orsini family, the castle and region evolved, bringing economic prosperity and such noted visitors as Pope Sixtus IV and King Charles VIII of France.

Board your coach for a panoramic journey through the Etruscan countryside and view rich vineyards, known for producing the famous wine of Cerveteri. Upon arrival at the quaint town of Bracciano, your escort will guide you to the entrance of the imposing Odescalchi Castle. One of the most beautiful residences in Europe, this location was selected by Hollywood star Tom Cruise as the site for his 2006 wedding. See the hall of the Caesars, the Secret Gardens, the Ancient Tower and the Hall of Arms.

A scenic drive affords marvelous views across Lake Bracciano as you travel to Anguillara Sabazia, one of three towns which face the lake. Situated on a promontory, this town was once a fief of the Anguillara and Orsini families. Enjoy some free time to photograph the picturesque homes gathered along the water's edge. Wander the narrow, cobbled streets and savor the old town atmosphere before re-boarding your coach for the return ride

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