Italy and Greece

D01: ROME

The journey begins on Day 1 in Rome. Upon arrival, you will meet your guide, check into the hotel, and immediately begin exploring the ancient city with visits to The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. The afternoon continues with a stroll to the Pantheon, a stop at the magnificent Trevi Fountain (don't forget your coin!), and a climb up the Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church. Dinner will be enjoyed in the lively Trastevere district.

D02: ROME

Day 2 is dedicated to the independent state of Vatican City. The morning involves a comprehensive visit to the Vatican Museums, including the renowned Sistine Chapel, followed by an entrance into St. Peter's Basilica. After lunch, the tour continues along the Tevere River to Castel Sant'Angelo, concluding at the beautiful Baroque square of Piazza Navona. Dinner options include pizza in Campo de' Fiori or traditional cuisine in the historic Jewish Ghetto.

D03: ROME - SIENA (3 hours)

Day 3 transitions from Rome to the heart of Tuscany, heading toward Siena. Along the scenic route, a photo stop is made at the iconic "Gladiator Elysian Fields" landscape. After lunch, you will arrive in Siena for a walking tour of the medieval center, visiting Piazza del Campo, the Municipal Palace, the Siena Duomo, the Duomo Museum, and the Santa Maria della Scala Museum Complex. The evening features a special dinner with the local Contrada dell'Aquila, sharing Palio traditions and local delicacies.

D04: SIENA - SAN GIMIGNANO - VOLTERRA - PISA

On Day 4, the journey departs Siena for Pisa. The first stop is San Gimignano, often called the 'Medieval Manhattan' due to its preserved towers. The day concludes with a visit to the historic Etruscan town of Volterra, where you will enjoy a relaxing sunset walk and dinner featuring local products before checking into your hotel in Pisa.

D05: PISA - FLORENCE (1 hour)

Day 5 starts with the highlights of Pisa, including the Square of Miracles and its components: the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral, and Baptistery. In the afternoon, the group transfers to Florence, the capital of Tuscany. The extensive city tour includes the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, and a focus on the marvelous churches of the historic center: the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore), Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery, Santa Maria Novella, and Santa Croce. Dinner is served at a local trattoria accompanied by fine wines.

D06: FLORENCE

Day 6 is devoted entirely to Florence. The morning begins with a trip uphill to Piazzale Michelangelo and the San Miniato al Monte Abbey terrace for stunning panoramic views. Afterward, you will stroll down to Piazza della Signoria and explore Palazzo Vecchio. The entire afternoon is left free for leisure, shopping, and personal exploration of the historic center.

Day 7 involves an early transfer to Venice. The tour immediately begins at Piazza San Marco to see its splendors: St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, La Fenice Theater, and St. Mark's Campanile. In the late evening, you will head to the Rialto Bridge and explore the vibrant fish and produce market. Dinner will be enjoyed in the less-touristed San Polo or Cannaregio districts, offering authentic Venetian dishes.

D08: VENICE - ATHENS

Day 8 in Venice offers a final opportunity to explore the enchanting streets, admire historic palazzi, and walk along the canals. Optional activities include a traditional gondola ride or an excursion to Murano Island, famous for its handmade glass. In the late evening, you will head to the airport for your flight to Athens, Greece.

D09: ATHENS

Day 9 begins early with a visit to the Acropolis to explore the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike before the crowds arrive. This is followed by a tour of the Acropolis Museum and a walk through the Ancient Agora, including the Temple of Hephaestus. The evening concludes with a stroll through the picturesque neighborhoods of Plaka and Anafiotika, followed by dinner at a traditional taverna.

D10: ATHENS

Day 10 is dedicated to the historical landmarks of Athens, starting with the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. You will then visit the National Archaeological Museum to view its vast collection of Greek artifacts. After lunch, the tour moves to the all-marble Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games, and concludes with a walk near Syntagma Square and the Hellenic Parliament.

D11: CORINTH, MICENE, NAFPLIO, EPIDAURUS - ATHENS

Day 11 features a full-day excursion into the Peloponnese region. The journey includes stops at the ruins of Ancient Corinth, the UNESCO-listed site of Mycenae with its iconic Lion Gate, and a seafront lunch in the Venetian-style town of Nafplio. Before returning to Athens, you will visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, renowned for its incredible acoustics and the Sanctuary of Asclepius.

D12-13-14 CYCLADES ISLANDS

Days 12, 13, and 14 consist of a spectacular full-board cruise through the Cyclades Islands. You will experience the beautiful beaches of Paros, the fertile landscapes and historical sites of Naxos, the world-famous volcanic cliffs of Santorini, and the vibrant atmosphere and nightlife of Mykonos.

D15 RETURN HOME

Day 15 concludes the journey with a transfer to the Athens airport for your return flight home.