We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of New South Wales stands.

In-depth destinations

Panorama of Rome, Italy from the Castel Sant'Angelo

Rome, Italy

Travel with friends

Join us on one of our In-depth destination tours and take the time to delve deeply into one city and learn more about what makes it unique. These travel experiences are custom designed for the Art Gallery members and guests who want to have a premier experience on a budget.  

Immerse yourself in a single destination with one of our week-long in-depth explorations. 

2024 tours

  • The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), Istanbul, Turkey

    Istanbul 28 September – 5 October 2024

    With Iain Shearer 

    Join archaeologist Iain Shearer to discover over 2500 years of history, culture, art and architecture in the stunning transcontinental metropolis of Istanbul.  

    Delve deep into the rich history of the Turkish capital, which served as the capital city during the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Nicknamed ‘The City on Seven Hills’, explore some of Istanbul’s seven grand mosques – including the Hagia Sophia – built upon seven hilltops and marvel at the city’s colourful and dramatic architecture. 

    Wander through one of the oldest covered markets in the world, enjoy curated sightseeing to iconic and historical landmarks and savour the authentic flavours of the conjunction of Western and Eastern cuisine. 

    • Marvel at Istanbul’s iconic seven mosques built upon seven hilltops, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

    • Wander through vibrant markets and colourful streetways and enjoy curated sightseeing to historical landmarks

    • Experience the unique blend of cultures of Istanbul, the crossroads of Europe and Asia

    • Enrich your experience with insightful talks by your tour leader, archaeologist Iain Shearer

    Visit the Renaissance Tours website for more information and to book

    The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), Istanbul, Turkey

    The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii), Istanbul, Turkey

  • Fountain of Four Rivers by Bernini at Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy

    Rome 2–9 October 2024 

    With Steven Miller 

    Experience the ‘eternal city’ in depth by uncovering its rich history and culture, wandering through ornate churches and opulent palazzos and marvelling at original artistic masterpieces. Visit a series of villas and palaces, including the houses of Livia and Augustus on Palatine Hill and the renowned Palazzo Farnese, and trace the architectural progression of history by wandering along Rome’s charming streets and squares.

    Discover the enclosed convent of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, which houses one of Pietro Cavallini’s most famous works, and explore the Franciscan church of San Francesco a Ripa, filled with works by Bernini and other renowned artists. Enjoy exclusive access to the Vatican Museums and its expansive gardens.

    • Wander through opulent palaces, including the Palazzo Farnese – one of the most important High Renaissance in Rome – and the Pallazo Barberini

    • Gain exclusive before-hours access to the Vatican Museums and its expansive gardens

    • Marvel at original masterpieces by renowned artists, including Pietro Cavallini and Gian Lorenzo Bernini

    • Explore Rome’s charming streets and vibrant squares and savour its flavourful cuisine 

    Visit the Renaissance Tours website for more information and to book

    Fountain of Four Rivers by Bernini at Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy

    Fountain of Four Rivers by Bernini at Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy

Other member tours