Depart U.S.A. for Rome

We arrive mid morning and visit St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. In the afternoon we visit the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel. After visiting the Crypt of St. Peter, we stroll around St. Peter's Square before having dinner at a local restaurant.

In the morning we will attend a papal audience at St. Peter's Square if available. We then explore the Catacombs of Rome, before walking around Rome's historic center. Dinner is on our own this evening.

In the morning we visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. We then visit the Mamertine Prison, and the Church of St. Paul of the 3 Fountains. In the evening we explore Rome's neighborhoods like Trastevere. Dinner will be on our own this evening.

We arrive in Paris in the morning, and visit the Lourve Museum to see iconic artworks like the Mona Lisa. Optional Bateau Moche (boat tour) of the Seine. (Cost not included) In the evening we will take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River or explore the charming streets of Montmartre.

In the morning we explore the iconic Notre-Dame cathedral and the nearby Île Saint-Louis. If available we will see the crown of thorns. We then visit the Eiffel Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Paris. In the evening we will indulge in French cuisine at a cozy bistro.

Today we travel from Paris to Marseille by train and then drive to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, associated with Mary Magdelene's arrival in France. In the afternoon we visit the Church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-mer, which house relics associated with Mary Magdalene and is an important pilgrimage site. In the evening we explore the charming town and enjoy a meal featuring local cuisine.

In the morning we visit other sites associated with Mary Magdalene, such as the grottoes or caves where she is believed to have lived. We then explore nearby towns and sites of historical and cultural significance in the region.

In the morning we drive back to Marseille and fly to Madrid. Once in Madrid we take a bus to Santiago de Compostela. We visit the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, and explore the historic old town of Santiago.

In the morning, we take a guided tour of the cathedral. Then we visit the Museum of the Pilgrimage, and have an opportunity to walk part of the pilgrimage trail. In the evening we enjoy dinner and immerse ourselves in the local culture.

Those not taking the extension transfer to the airport in Madrid for return flight home.

In the morning we fly from Northern Spain to London. We will visit St. Paul's Cathedral, where there's a tradition that Simon the Zealot was buried. We explore the cathedral's stunning architecture and history. In the evening we walk along the River Thames and enjoy views of landmarks like the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

This morning we visit Westminster Abbey, where we explore the tombs and memorials of numerous historical figures, including Andrew, one of the twelve apostles. We learn about the Abbey's rich history and its connections to British royalty. We will explore other attractions in London, such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, and take a stroll through Hyde Park. In the evening we enjoy a traditional English meal in one of London's historic pubs.

In the morning we travel from London to Edinburgh. We will visit St. Andrew's Cathedral in Edinburgh, named after the apostle Andrew. We take time to explore the cathedral and learn about its significance in Scottish history and culture. In the evening we will take a walk along the Royal Mile and explore Edinburgh's Old Town, with its narrow alleys, and historic buildings such as St. Giles Cathedral, Holyrood Palace, Scottish Parliament and more.

In the morning we visit St. Andrew's Cathedral in St. Andrews, which is about an hour's drive from Edinburgh. St. Andrews is traditionally associated with Andrew, who is believed to have preached in the area. In the afternoon we will explore St. Andrews Castle and St. Andrews University, one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world. In the evening we enjoy a leisurely dinner in on e of St. Andrews' restaurants overlooking the North Sea.

Today we transfer to the airport in Edinburgh, for our return flight back to U.S.A.