Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.
Videos
At Home in Rome with guide Franco Assorgi
Journey along the ancient lanes of Rome with local guide Franco Assorgi and get a glimpse of the beauty and magnificence of the “Eternal City.” Marvel at some of the Western world’s most famous sights as Franco takes us through Italy’s capital, stopping along the way to offer intriguing insights and pointing out hidden gems that you can explore during your visit to Rome.
Uncover the storied history of ancient Rome
To conclude our week in the Western Mediterranean, join Jean as she travels through the “Eternal City,” offering you a fascinating glimpse of Roman history, from the iconic Pantheon to the intriguing Aventine Hill. Then, deepen your knowledge of Vatican City when Jean’s Roman tour concludes on the hallowed grounds of St. Peter's Square, the beautiful piazza watched over by St. Peter's Basilica.
Sketch St. Peter’s Basilica with Professor Mark Keane
Join your host, Professor Mark Keane, for an engaging, draw-along session focused on a masterpiece of Renaissance and baroque architecture—St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Designed by a succession of legendary architects, from Michelangelo to Gian Lorenzo Bernini, the basilica is a testament to centuries of artistic vision. Professor Keane unpacks its architectural evolution and guides us through a hands-on drawing lesson, teaching us how to capture the iconic dome’s vast proportions on a two-dimensional page with perspective techniques. Learn about vanishing points and how to create depth and scale just as master architects once did.
The Amalfi Coast’s Tasty Limoncello
This tangy liqueur has long been one of Italy’s favorite after-dinner drinks. Join Karine to discover how simple it is to make this refreshing and iconic Sorrento digestif at home.
The Origins of Opera
What has made opera such a popular and enduring art form? Join Karine as she takes you behind the scenes of this distinctly Italian creation at its source—the opera houses of Italy.
Karine Cooks: Risotto at Lake Como, Italy
Learn how Italians prepare their delicious risotto con funghi porcini and the bubbly addition that gives this particular version a delightfully unique taste.
Italy’s Fabled Vespa Scooter
As iconic as Rome’s Colosseum or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy’s fabled Vespa is central to Italy’s cultural identity. Learn the history of this perennial Italian motor scooter.
Italian Language Lesson
Learn a few useful Italian words and phrases with Elena, your Viking tutor. Salute!
Inside Italy’s Coffee Culture
If you cannot tell your macchiato from your espresso corto or you do not know why you should drink your coffee standing, join Karine and friends to explore Italy’s thriving coffee culture.
Fresh Pasta: Fast, Fun and Easy!
Venture into the Tuscan countryside to learn the art of making fresh pasta. Under the watchful eye of a delightful Italian mama, Karine learns the secrets of this Italian favorite.
Baci: the Original Chocolate Kiss
Karine joins Chocolate Master Massimiliano Guidubaldi at the Perugina School of Chocolate to learn to make Baci, Italy’s original chocolate “kiss,” invented on Valentine’s Day in 1922.
