Italy's Countryside

In Milan we'll take a peek at Italy's highest fashion, fanciest delis, grandest cemetery, and greatest opera house...not to mention Leonardo's "Last Supper." Then we'll cruise Lake Como, settling down in the lakeside village of Varenna. Originally S4.E6

We enjoy the charms of rural Tuscany's "sweet life" as we hunt for truffles in an oak forest, nibble on artichokes, and cruise through cypress groves in a classic convertible. Originally S4.E7

Italy's quintessential charms survive in its classic hill towns. From San Gimignano's medieval towers to Civita di Bagnoregio's cliff-hanging vistas, all sit on lofty stone perches that now protect them only from the modern world. Originally S4.E8

Naples is Italy in the extreme. We'll prowl backstreet fish markets, dodge speedy Vespas, eat pizza where it was invented, climb to the top of nearby Mount Vesuvius, then wander through the ruins of Pompeii, the Roman town it destroyed.

Just south of Naples, we'll experience the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, including trendy Positano, the limoncello charms of Sorrento, the ancient Greek temples at Paestum, and the Blue Grotto hidden beneath the enchanting Isle of Capri. Originally S4.E5

We'll visit Italy's five tiny seaside towns known as the Cinque Terre, while stopping to fish for anchovies, sip wine from barrels, and savor twinkling Mediterranean vistas. Originally S8.E7

In the Italian countryside, we'll see how prosciutto and pecorino are made, duck into ancient wine cellars, and visit the hill town of Assisi - and its awe-inspiring basilica. Originally S9.E6

We'll enjoy a front-row seat at Siena's wild Palio horse race and marvel at treasures from the city's golden age, then head out of town for a taste of Tuscan dolce vita. Originally S9.E7