October 8–16, 2026
Italy
Living La Dolce Fede: In the Footsteps of the Popes
In the Footsteps of the Popes is a spiritually rich Catholic pilgrimage guided by Matthew Bunson and Teresa Tomeo, taking pilgrims on a journey through the heart of papal history from October 8–16, 2026. Beginning in Rome and extending to the historic towns of Orvieto and Arezzo, the itinerary traces the legacy of the papacy across centuries. In Viterbo, where popes once resided, pilgrims explore the Palace of the Popes, while in Orvieto, the Eucharistic Miracle that influenced Pope Urban IV is remembered with reverence. The journey returns to Rome, the seat of the papacy, where participants celebrate Mass at major basilicas closely tied to papal authority, including St. John Lateran—the cathedral of the Pope—and St. Peter’s Basilica. Special moments such as a papal audience, a visit to the Scavi beneath St. Peter’s, and a walk along the Passetto—the secret papal escape route—further deepen the connection to the lives of the popes. The experience culminates with a visit to Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of many pontiffs, offering a final reflection on their enduring spiritual leadership. This pilgrimage warmly invites travelers to walk in the footsteps of the popes and encounter the living tradition of the Catholic faith.
INCLUSIONS
• Seven nights’ accommodations at 4-star hotels
• Two Nights in Orvieto
• Five nights in Rome
• Meals
• Continental breakfast daily
• One lunch with wine tasting
• Three dinners
• One reception
• Local guides according to the itinerary
• Arrangements of daily Mass including donations in unique and historical churches
• Luxury motor coach in Italy for specified sightseeing
• Luxury motor coach for airport transfers in Italy
• Local tour manager while in Italy
• Hotel & city taxes and porterage for 1 piece of luggage
• Gratuities payable to the tour manager, guides, and motorcoach drivers
YOUR TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE
• Airfare
• Airport transfers
• Meals and beverages unless specified
• Travel insurance
• Other personal expenses
ITINERARY
Day 1: Thursday, October 8
Depart USA
Day 2: Friday, October 9 - Rome | Viterbo | Orvieto
Upon arrival, travelers are warmly welcomed by their Italian Tour Manager and begin the journey north to Viterbo, where the echoes of papal conclaves past still linger within the walls of the Palace of the Popes. After Mass at the historic Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the group continues to the hilltop town of Orvieto for a peaceful evening and shared dinner.
Day 3: Saturday, October 10 - Orvieto
In Orvieto, the beauty of the Duomo unfolds, along with the profound story of the Eucharistic Miracle of Corpus Christi. The afternoon offers time to reflect or wander the medieval streets.
Day 4: Sunday, October 11 - Orvieto | Arezzo| Rome
Today brings exploration of Arezzo, a gem of Tuscany rich with spiritual and artistic heritage. After Mass and a local wine tasting lunch, the pilgrimage arrives in Rome, the city of saints and martyrs, where
dinner and rest await.
Day 5: Monday, October 12 - Rome
This morning Mass is celebrated at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Pope’s cathedral, followed by a tour of the Lateran Museum and a visit to the Basilica of St. Mary Major. From the Aventine Hill, pilgrims visit Santa Sabina, an early Christian church offering breathtaking views and spiritual calm.
Day 6: Tuesday, October 13 - Rome
At the heart of the journey lies St. Peter’s Basilica, where pilgrims participate in Mass beneath Michelangelo’s dome and explore the majesty of this holy site. A quiet visit to the Catacombs of Callistus recalls the faith of early Christians. Later, if available, a private tour of the Sistine Chapel and a reception in the Vatican Gardens offer a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with sacred art and beauty.
Day 7: Wednesday, October 14 - Rome
This morning attend the Papal audience followed by the deeply moving Scavi Tour beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. A free afternoon invites personal discovery before the day concludes.
Day 8: Thursday, October 15 - Rome
Attend Mass at Santo Spirito in Sassia. Also, enjoy a walk along the Passetto—the secret Vatican passage used by popes in times of danger. A drive to Castel Gandolfo, the serene papal summer residence, provides a fitting finale. The Apostolic Palace tour and a heartfelt farewell dinner in the hills above Rome close the journey with warmth, prayer, and joy, leaving spirits enriched and hearts renewed.
Day 9: Friday, October 16
Depart for USA
PRICES STARTING AT
$5,349* - Price per person, double occupancy
*This price reflects a $250 per person Early Booking Discount for deposits received before September 30, 2025 and an $150 per person Check Discount for those paying the remaining balance by check after the initial deposit.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT + $1,500
TRAVEL PROTECTION:
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) travel protection is highly recommended.
PAYMENT SCHEDULE AND CANCELLATION TERMS:
Deposit: $500 per person due upon registration
Second Deposit: $1,250 additional due on or before May 10, 2026
Final Payment: Balance due on or before July 10, 2026
Please note late payments will incur a $50 late fee.
All cancellations must be received in writing. Payments are non-refundable and subject to CTS Terms and Conditions, including the CTS Liability Release. CTS reserves the right to cancel any reservation if payments are not made according to the payment schedule. A $25 fee will be added to any reinstated reservation.
BY REGISTERING FOR THIS PILGRIMAGE YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO CORPORATE TRAVEL’S TERMS & CONDITIONS
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS? REVIEW OUR FAQs.