David is the very symbol of Renaissance optimism and one of Europe's great sightseeing thrills. We'll also see Michelangelo's Prisoners — unfinished statues that give insight into this troubled genius. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Florence birthed the Renaissance. Enjoy its soaring church dome, famous statues, lazy river, and world-class gelato. Walk the same narrow streets as Michelangelo, the Medicis, and Florentines today. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

The world's best collection of Italian Renaissance painting shows off the beauty of nature in all its three-dimensional glory, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael, plus Botticelli's Birth of Venus. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Tour ancient Rome's most enduring monument, seeing where emperors sat, gladiators warmed up, and thousands cheered. Don't forget to download the PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

This walk winds through an urban village of narrow lanes, panoramic piazzas, fanciful fountains, and some of Europe’s best people-watching. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

For centuries, Rome's Jewish ghetto has been the site of both relentless persecution and the undying pride and solidarity of a tight-knit community. Though most of the old ghetto has been torn down, you can still find a few reminders of the Roman Jews' storied past and lively present. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

An exciting day trip from Rome, this ruined ancient city is similar to Pompeii but less touristed. Walk through ancient apartments, shops, temples, and baths of ordinary Romans. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Ancient Rome's best-preserved temple captures Rome at its enlightened peak. Stand under the solemn dome, marvel at the engineering, and picture pious Romans worshipping their pagan gods. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

"Friends, Romans, Travelers, lend me your earbuds." Resurrect the ancient rubble of Rome's center — the world of Vestal Virgins, passionate orators, conquering generals, and sleazy emperors. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

The greatest church in Christendom has a cavernous interior, a grave of St. Peter, and the Pieta — all under the watchful presence of Michelangelo's magnificent dome. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Michelangelo's colorful frescoes depict Christian history from the Creation to the Last Judgment. It includes the art world's most iconic image — the touching fingers of God and Man. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Explore the colorful neighborhood "across the Tiber." It's a world of lovers kissing on Vespas, kids playing soccer, and narrow lanes draped with drying underwear. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Set in an immense and lavish papal palace decorated by the likes of Michelangelo and Raphael, the Vatican Museums are a treasure chest of the ancient world, holding some of the greatest art anywhere. This tour leads you right up to the Sistine Chapel, covered in a separate audio tour. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

The underappreciated Frari has museum-class art in a peaceful church setting. See luscious Madonnas and statues that celebrate the glory of God through the beauty of nature. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

This nautical joyride on a public vaporetto snakes through the heart of Venice — under the Rialto Bridge, and past churches with soaring domes and markets with stinky squid. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Explore the onion-domed exterior and exotic interior with its famous mosaics and jeweled art. The walk ends with a great view over St. Mark's Square. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Venice's center is a gathering spot for the whole world. Admire the one-of-a-kind basilica, the Doges Palace, the shops, the music-filled cafes… and the magical piazza they enclose. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

On this walk through the hometown of Italy's beloved Saint Francis, we'll cover the town from top to bottom — literally. We'll start at the modern piazza at the uphill end of town, work our way down through the medieval heart, and end at the Basilica of St. Francis. Allow about an hour for this walk. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

The huge church honors Assisi's most famous citizen. It has Francis' remains, some personal possessions, and frescoes by Giotto, who chronicled the remarkable life of this most human of saints. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

This short but culturally rich stroll through Italy’s most modern city takes us from atop the statue-studded cathedral, through the elegant Galleria arcade — passing opulent window displays and well-dressed locals — to the famous La Scala Opera House. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

One of the world’s great museums of antiquity, Naples' Archaeological Museum boasts supersized statues, decorations from Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the opportunity to get up close and personal with the ancient world. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Naples, a living medieval city, is its own best sight. This walk takes us through the crusty heart of town — past lively markets, flapping laundry, and more fights and smiles per cobblestone than anywhere else in Italy. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.

Stopped in its tracks by a volcanic eruption in A.D. 79, the city of Pompeii is remarkably well preserved. It's the best look anywhere at everyday life in ancient Rome. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map at http://www.ricksteves.com/audiotours.