Bettany Hughes' Grand Tour: From Paris to Rome

It's the city that was top of the list for any 18th century traveler. Now historian Bettany Hughes is following in the footsteps of these 'grand tour' explorers and delving into the finest that Paris has to offer in this travel documentary. In the Louvre Museum, Bettany comes face-to-face with the Venus de Milo, before checking into five-star hotel, where writer Oscar Wilde spent his final days.

During an 18th century 'grand tour,' those looking for enlightenment would head to Italy. Now historian Bettany Hughes tries to emulate them in this sumptuous travel documentary. She encounters the stunning beauty of Venice's canals, then wanders the magnificent Doge's Palace. She unearths Bologna's finest culinary offerings before heading to the haunts of her favorite romantic poet, Lord Byron.

Just like the 'grand tourists' of the 18th century, historian Bettany Hughes travels deeper into Italy to uncover fine food and culture. In this glorious travel documentary, she explores Florence, one of Italy's most beautiful cities. Then it's on to Lake Como where famous figures from Napoleon to George Clooney have sought sanctuary. Finally, she visits Milan, Italy's most stylish city.

Grand tour travelers weren't simply interested in education. As historian Bettany Hughes discovers in this engaging travel documentary, they wanted all their horizons broadened. She explores the breathtaking vistas of the Amalfi Coast and nearby island of Capri, full of ancient history and glamor. She ends her journey in Rome, where she unearths one of the city’s best kept secrets.