We'll visit three great cities in the shadow of Venice: Padova (Padua), with its university life and famed basilica; Verona and its Roman ruins; and Ravenna, for its shimmering mosaics. Originally S8.E8

We'll start with a cruise through Venice's lagoon, pausing to savor fresh fish canal-side. Then we'll sample the treasures of the Accademia Gallery, explore some back-street wonders, and luxuriate in a venerable cafe on St. Mark's Square. Originally S7.E11

Venice, more than any other European city, has an endlessly seductive charm. For centuries, it was nicknamed La Serenissima, "The Most Serenely Beautiful One" — and for good reason. After sorting through the monuments of Venice's powerful past, we'll cruise the Grand Canal and be dazzled by masterpieces of the Venetian Renaissance. Along the way we'll feast on Venetian treats, get a splash of modern art, then glide on a gondola through this city of elegant decay. Originally S7.E10

We enjoy Renaissance art in Florence, the city that propelled Europe out of the Middle Ages. Then we visit two cultural capitals in their own right: Pisa, where we'll marvel at a tipsy tower; and Lucca, where we'll celebrate Puccini. Originally S7.E5

In Florence, we'll revel in the genius of Michelangelo and Botticelli, climb the dome that kicked off the Renaissance, and cross the Arno to take in modern-day artisan life. Originally S7.E4

In part three in Rome, explore a grand metropolis, rich in art and culture, on a more intimate scale. Delve into Rome's back lanes and unheralded corners and uncover charms of hidden Rome that compete with its marquee sites. Originally S7.E3

Part two in Rome reveals an energetic city bursting with Baroque. Ramble through the heart of Rome, and admire Bernini statues, visit St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, and enjoy an early-evening stroll. Also, Rome's romantic nightspots. Originally S7-E2

Focusing on the grandeur of the classical Rome, we'll marvel at the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Capitoline Museum, before heading out on a bike ride along the ancient Appian Way Originally S7.E1