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  Northern Italy Transit of Venus Itinerary        Page 2    
 
   
  Day 5 Tue, June 8                                                                   Breakfast - Lunch
Transit of Venus
     
 
    After an early breakfast, we’ll drive to Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory to view the transit of Venus across the face of the Sun. This modern research facility is nestled atop a tree-lined hill overlooking Florence. It features several instruments, including a magnificent 15-inch brass refractor and the impressive Donati Solar Tower Telescope. Our observing site on the observatory’s rooftop terrace is at latitude 43° 45’ 14.4” N, longitude 11° 15’ 19.2” E. The transit begins at 5:20 a.m. local time, with the Sun 17° up in the sky, and ends six hours later at 1:24 p.m. with the Sun at an altitude of 69°.  
    After the transit, an Arcetri staff astronomer will lead us on a short walk from the observatory to see the small villa where Galileo spent his final years under house arrest by the Inquisition. This evening in Florence is yours to dine and explore on your own.
     
         
  Day 6 Wed, June 9                                                                               Breakfast
Florence
     
 

    Join us this morning for a guided tour of Florence, including the Cathedral, the Giotto Tower, the Baptistery, the Piazza della Signoria, and the famous Gallery of the Academy, where we will admire the works of Michelangelo, including his masterpiece, David. Your afternoon and evening are free to enjoy Florence on your own.

   
 

 

   
  Day 7 Thu, June 10                                                                  Breakfast - Lunch
Venice
   
      After breakfast and checkout, we’ll depart for Venice. After lunch we’ll take a guided walking tour of the old city, including the Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Cathedral, Doge’s Palace, and Rialto Bridge. Our hotel is located in the heart of Venice, only a few minutes’ walk from St. Mark’s square and its famous astronomical clock. This evening is yours to spend as you wish; return to sites discovered earlier in the day, or relax at the hotel.
Overnight: Hotel Nazione (2 nights)
   
 

 

   
  Day 8 Fri, June 11                                                                    Breakfast - Dinner
Venice
   
      Today is completely free to explore the streets and canals of Venice, its museums, and perhaps to take a gondola ride. Join us tonight for our farewell dinner at the hotel.    
 

 

    
  Day 9 Sat, June 12                                                                                Breakfast
Arrivederci Italia
   
 

    After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Venice Airport according to your flight schedule for your flight home or to other destinations.

   
         
 
     
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  Copyright  2004 TravelQuest International.  All rights reserved.   800-830-1998
Revised: October 25, 2005.

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