I did both of the Italy trips and thought nothing could ever compare to Viva Italia... until I went on the Bella Italia trip.
We had a large group who had traveled together on the Viva trip and I'd say most of us liked this one even more.
It really does depend on what you're looking for, though!
Highlights of Viva Italia:
-- Like glassslipper2004, Venice is one of my favorite cities in the world, possibly *the* favorite. (I'm back in September on a Holland America cruise, and can't wait!)
-- Visiting St Peter's Basilica was one of the most moving experiences of my life. It doesn't matter your religious affiliation, or even if you have one -- just marvel at what it took to build this amazing structure.
-- The villa in Tuscany is a fabulous way to feel like an Italian for a few days. Oh wait... I *am* Italian...
Highlights of Bella Italia:
-- I actually LOVE Florence and think the short time on the Viva trip does it an injustice. The hotel is right smack in the middle of everything and has a charming rooftop patio, where we consumed much wine in the evening.
I like Florence more than I like Rome, and that surprised me.
-- Sorrento, Positano, Capri -- wow! Absolutely the most beautiful coastline in the world, for me.
-- Pompeii was just incredible and such a difference experience than what I expected it to be.
I think the Viva trip is a much more fast-paced, see-all-you-can-see-in-a-short-time trip, and that's not a bad thing if you're looking for that. Some folks wouldn't want to go to Italy and miss the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, St. Mark's Square in Venice, etc. Those are the things that say "Italy" to us. However, the Bella Italia trip is more... romantic?
Adding two things to my typically long answer... would I have loved Bella Italia so much had I NOT seen Rome and Venice? I'm not sure, but I know I'd still be longing for a trip that included those two cities. Would I have loved Bella Italia more than Viva Italia if my three boys weren't with me? Hah... anyone who knows me knows the answer to that one.
Dotti