If you've never been to Italy, taking an escorted tour that overnights in three of the most popular cities is an excellent way to get an overview of Italian culture, art, cuisine and history.
Especially if you are not familiar with the Italian language, and if you don't want to deal with the hassle of making your own hotel and transportation arrangements, escorted travel is the way to go.
On an escorted tour of Italy, you'll travel with like-minded passengers and with a tour director who will guide you along every step of the way. Along with knowledgeable local guides, your tour director will offer entertaining commentary about Italy's world-famous art and architecture, as well as its current events and culture.
Built into the itinerary of all escorted tours is free time for you to spend however you wish -- that might be sipping an espresso at an outdoor cafe in Rome, shopping for leather goods in Florence or snapping photos from the many bridges in Venice.
Here's a look at three of the most popular cities on many escorted-tour itineraries. After you've gotten your introduction to Italy on a tour of these fascinating cities, you might consider an in-depth look at Sicily, a resort stay in coastal Sorrento or a faith-based tour of the country's most well-known religious sites.