SACRED TRADITIONS OF ITALY: THE SHROUD, THE PASSION & THE RENAISSANCE

After breakfast, embark on a panoramic tour of Milan, viewing iconic landmarks including the legendary La Scala Opera House and the spellbinding Gothic Duomo, one of Europe’s architectural masterpieces. Continue by motorcoach to Turin, Italy’s first capital— a city of royal avenues, elegant palaces, and deep spiritual heritage. Visit the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, home to the revered Shroud of Turin. While the original relic is displayed only on rare occasions—typically during years when the Sordevolo Passion Play is held—an exact replica may be viewed in nearby venues and at the Shroud Museum. Journey onward to Biella, the charming Piedmont town nestled amid green hills and just minutes from Sordevolo. Dinner is served at your hotel or a welcoming local restaurant. (B,D)

This morning, travel to the hilltop village of Roppolo for a visit to its medieval castle overlooking shimmering Lake Viverone. In the castle’s historic Serra wine cellar, enjoy a tasting of Piemonte’s sparkling wines and traditional grappa. Continue to the perfectly preserved medieval stronghold of Ricetto di Candelo, built between the 13th and 14th centuries as a communal refuge for food stores and prized possessions. Walk along its cobblestone rue, lined with soaring stone walls and watchtowers. Here, time appears suspended—courtyards, frescoes, and shadowed storerooms reveal centuries of rural life and resilience. Lunch is served at a typical local restaurant before returning to Biella for the evening. (B,L)

Today’s journey takes you into the mystical Sacred Mountains of Piemonte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend to Oropa, set 3,900 feet above sea level, and visit its renowned sanctuary dedicated to the cherished Black Madonna. Later, travel to Sordevolo, a village transformed every five years since the 18th century into the stage for the extraordinary “Passion of Christ”—a vast, open-air theatrical performance acted entirely by local residents. After a visit to the Sordevolo museum, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before attending this once-in-a-lifetime cultural event. (B,D)

Enjoy a seamless and scenic private transfer from Biella to Florence, enriched by a delightful stop in Parma—a city celebrated for its art, music, and world-famous gastronomy. Stroll through Parma’s historic center before indulging in a curated gourmet tasting lunch featuring local specialties. After this flavorful interlude, continue comfortably onward to Florence, arriving refreshed and inspired. (B,L)

Discover Florence’s Renaissance treasures on a guided tour featuring the Academy with Michelangelo’s original “David”, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery and its famed “Gates of Paradise,” Signoria Square, and Santa Croce Church. Conclude with a delightful gelato tasting—a nod to the Florentine legend that Buontalenti, commissioned by the Medici family, created the earliest version of gelato. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or join an optional excursion to Pisa, including dinner at a traditional farmhouse and winery in the Tuscan countryside. (B)

Enjoy a full day to experience Florence at your own pace—wander its artistic streets, shop for local treasures, or join an optional excursion to Siena and San Gimignano. In medieval Siena, famed for its Palio horse race and grand Il Campo, visit the stunning Gothic Duomo. Continue to San Gimignano, where ancient towers and charming lanes offer unforgettable views of the Tuscan countryside. This evening, savor dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

This morning you are taken to the airport for your return flight home. (B)