tours italy greece

Grand Tour of Italy & Greece

4.6 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

See the highlights of two of Europe’s most sought-after destinations

Italy and Greece often find their way to the top of many travel bucket lists—and for good reason. Both countries shine when it comes to their fresh cuisine, dreamy views, and dynamic cultures. Find inspiration in Italy as you visit Venice, Florence, and Rome. Then, head to Greece to uncover history in Delphi, Olympia, and Athens.

Your tour package includes

• 12 nights in handpicked hotels
• 12 breakfasts
• 5 dinners with beer or wine
• 7 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• St. Mark’s Basilica
• Florence Duomo
• Ponte Vecchio
• Spanish Steps

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Venice.

Welcome to Italy! Meet your Tour Director and fellow group members at tonight’s welcome dinner.

Admire historic churches, winding canals, and picture-perfect piazzas on a guided tour of the city known as the Queen of the Adriatic.

• Marvel at the Bridge of Sighs, the link between Doge’s Palace and the New Prison.
• View the stately Doge’s Palace, built in the Venetian Gothic style in 1340.
• Step into the iconic St. Mark’s Square and enter St. Mark’s Basilica.
• See a glassblowing demonstration to learn about the city’s most celebrated art.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Venice or add an excursion.

Please note: On some departures travelers may enter St. Mark's Basilica after the sightseeing tour based on ticket time availability.

Gondola Ride: Venice Canal Cruise

From $89 per person

Private Gondola Ride: Canal Cruise for Two

From $165 per person

Cross through the Apennine Mountains as you make your way to Florence. Once you arrive, get to know the city with a local guide.

• View the legendary Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo.
• Pass Giotto’s Campanile, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
• Walk past Piazza della Repubblica to the medieval Ponte Vecchio.
• Stroll along the Arno River and through the courtyard of the Uffizi Gallery to Piazza della Signoria, center of Florentine life.

Spend a free day in Florence or add an excursion.

San Gimignano: Medieval Sights & Tuscan Flavors

From $115 per person

Depart Florence for Rome, where you’ll explore the ancient city on a guided tour.

• Stroll past the Spanish Steps, where Bernini’s Baroque-style fountain has stood since the 1600s
• Walk to the intricately carved Trevi Fountain, and toss a coin for good luck
• Step inside the Pantheon, home to the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome
• Learn about the engineering skills of the ancient Romans and how they created this well-preserved temple
• End at Piazza Navona and see the Fountain of the Four Rivers

Enjoy a free day in Rome or add excursions.

Iconic Sights: Vatican City

From $125 per person

Pasta-Making Class & Dinner

From $119 per person

Spend a free morning exploring Rome or add an excursion.

This evening, enjoy an elegant, four-course dinner at a local restaurant with live musical entertainment.

Ancient Rome: St. Paul’s Basilica & the Catacombs

Fly to Athens, Greece this morning. Then, continue on to Delphi.

Set off on a guided tour of Delphi, home of the mystical oracle. You’ll visit the Temple of Apollo where, according to legend, the gods once communicated with mortals. 

Cross onto the Peloponnese peninsula as you make your way to the Olympia region this afternoon.

Tour the historic city of Olympia with a local guide.

• View the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
• See the ancient Gymnasium and site where the first Olympic Games took place.
• Step inside the Archaeological Museum of Olympia and enjoy free time to explore the exhibits.

Spend a free afternoon in the Olympia region or add an excursion.

Greek Cooking Class & Folkloric Show Dinner

From $69 per person

As you make your way to Athens, stop to visit several historic sites.

• Head to the UNESCO-listed Archaeological site of Mycenae.
• Take a guided tour of the ancient Mycenaean city and learn about its connection to Homer’s famous Greek epics the Iliad and the Odyssey.
• Snap a photo of the Corinth Canal, which separates the Peloponnese peninsula from mainland Greece.

A local guide introduces you to the highlights of this bustling ancient capital, home to the world’s first democracy.

• Pass by the Olympic Stadium, Syntagma Square, and the Arch of Hadrian.
• View the sixth-century Temple of Zeus.
• See the classically inspired Old Royal Palace, home of the Hellenic Parliament, and drive through the Plaka district.
• Set off on a walking tour around the ancient Acropolis, site of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Athens or add an excursion.

Celebrate your trip with your fellow group members at a farewell dinner this evening.

Cape Sounion

From $75 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or continue on to visit Santorini and further explore Athens.

Take a ferry to Santorini, then enjoy free time to discover the island’s charming culture and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Take in the local sights on a guided tour of Santorini, a volcanic isle known for its black-sand beaches, cliff-lined shores, and stunning whitewashed architecture.

• Visit the prehistoric settlements that were unearthed during the archaeological excavations at Akrotiri.
• Ride to the top of Mount Profitis Ilias for panoramic views of the whole island.
• Stop in the small, picturesque village of Pyrgos.

Spend a free evening in Santorini or add an excursion.

Santorini Caldera Cruise & Dinner

From $149 per person

Enjoy a free day in Santorini or add an excursion.

Please note: For an additional cost, you can book a visit to the village of Oia through your Tour Director. The visit will either take place on the evening of day 14 or 16 depending on the ferry schedule.

Greek Wine Tasting & Lunch

Fly back to Athens today. Then, gather with your group members and raise a toast to your trip with a farewell drink.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.6 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

Our tour director Francesco was extremely efficient at handling every aspect of our tour. Moving 35 people and all their luggage from each location without losing anyone or anything was remarkable. Francesco kept us on time and on track. He was interesting, entertaining and responsive. A true pro...

This was a huge decision, but we bit the bullet and have not regretted it. The guide was amazing, professional, and knowledgeable, and took care of any issues that came up. This vacation was all I dreamed of and more. Money well spent

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We'...

4 out of 5 stars

Italy was awesome. So much history. So much fun. Good food, good shopping. I'm disappointed that we didn't get to rour the Colliseum. If book fewer excursions if I had it to do over... difficult to say which excursions I'd cut because they were all good, but a bit more free time would have made th...

Thank you for sharing your experience. We're glad ...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This Art Nouveau hotel is located in Lido di Venezia. Guests enjoy a private beach area, restaurant and bar, and library. Nearby, you’ll find Lido Bea...

This charming hotel is located near the Santa Maria Novella train station in Florence. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi and a restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find t...

This modern hotel is located in near Termini station. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a minibar, and laundry center. Nearby, you'll find Museo Nazionale Roman...

This modern hotel is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus in Delphi. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, beautiful views, and manicured gardens. Nearby, ...

This modern hotel is located in the Agios Georgios neighborhood. Guests enjoy a restaurant, bar, and pool. Nearby, you’ll find the Archimedes Museum, ...

This modern hotel is located in the Ilisia neighborhood. Guests enjoy a fitness center, restaurant, and lounge. Nearby you’ll find the Byzantine and C...

This beautiful hotel is located in the heart of Fira, the capital of Santorini. Guests enjoy a pool, outdoor bar, and stylish accommodations. Nearby, ...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• This tour visits Italy and Greece. In order to enter these countries, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code IGC.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Venice and depart from Athens.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Venice, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.
• Please note that your arrival transfer may be via water taxi.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• One 1-night stay
• 3 full days of included activities in a row (more if you add excursions)
• Most transportation by motor coach with occasional transport by boat and plane
• About 4 hours of bus time daily

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day over varying terrain - this includes city streets, cobblestones, rocky or slippery paths, uneven stairs, and steep hills.
• Stone and marble walkways may be slippery even when dry.
• The city of Venice is fully pedestrian with 3-5 steps leading up and down the many bridges throughout the city.
• The terrain around the Roman Forum and the Colosseum includes inclines and uneven stairs.
• Access to the Acropolis requires travelers to navigate a steep hill including uneven stairs with no railing.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour.

Climate Considerations

• In the summer months (June-September), travelers can expect heatwaves with temperatures consistently above 90F.
• Venice experiences the Acqua Alta, or high water, during the fall and winter months. During this time, travelers can expect the lower parts of the city to flood for a few hours during the day.
• In July and August, Greece experiences Meltemi, or strong winds, which can make for rough ferry rides. Travelers who experience motion sickness should take the proper precautions. 

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• This tour includes various modes of transportation, including plane, water taxi, ferry, and private motor coach. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• A flight from Rome to Athens is included in the price of your tour (the tour extension also includes a ferry from Athens to Santorini and a flight from Santorini to Athens).
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which include flights and ferries.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels, airports and while boarding ferries.
• Travelers need to be prepared to manage their own luggage during ferry transfer. This includes carrying your luggage up/down the boarding ramp, lifting luggage onto racks, and managing crowded spaces with other people and motor vehicles.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• Travelers who experience motion sickness should take the proper precautions for the ferry crossings.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three to four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• Italy operates on the European standard 220-240 volts and uses Types C, F, or L plugs with two or three small, round pins.
• Greece operates on the European standard 220-240 volts and uses Types C, E, or F plugs with two small, round pins.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• Please note that codeine (commonly found in headache medications) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country.
• Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes five dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Venice and Northern Italy are known for flavorful meats and pastries.
• Tuscany is world-famous for its wine, oil, sauces, and pasta. Menus favor subtle, lighter pastas and desserts made with nuts, fruit, and honey. Try a dish featuring the region’s Chianina beef, perhaps the most prized breed of cattle in all of Italy. For wine, popular Tuscan reds include Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which are primarily made from the Sangiovese grape. Well-known white wines are also made around the San Gimignano region.
• Roman food is typically freshly prepared and varies depending on the season. Must-try bites include cacio e pepe (a simple dish of pasta, cheese, and pepper) and supplí (a fried rice ball similar to Sicily's arancini).
• For more authentic meals, try local trattorias, small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello.
• Greece’s warm climate ensures a constant supply of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. Salads served with aromatic olive oil, feta cheese, and oregano are plentiful. Simple grilled fish and meat are integral to Greek cuisine, as well as squid and octopus. Don't miss the spinach and cheese pies, called spanakopita.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10-$12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Italy is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and six hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• Greece is two hours ahead of GMT and seven hours ahead of ET.
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm in Italy and 7pm in Greece.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• If you are interested in visiting any of Florence's many museums during your free time, we recommend that you make reservations in advance. See  uffizi.org  for the Uffizi Gallery or  accademia.org  for the Accademia Gallery. Please note that the museums are closed on Mondays.

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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Greece and Italy

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Greece And Italy. There are 36 trips to choose from, that range from 7 days in length, up to 23 days. The month with the most departures is June, making it the most popular time to visit Greece And Italy.

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36 fully guided tour packages in greece and italy with 427 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Best of Italy and Greece (10 Days)

It was a wonderful once in a lifetime experience! The hotels were clean and comfortable. The coaches were also comfortable. Our tour guide Romeo was fantastic. He was fun and knowledgeable.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Best of Italy and Greece (14 Days, Celestyal Cruise Information)

Greece and Heart of Italy with Meteoras

Italy & Greece with Iconic Aegean Islands Cruise

Our tour guide, Margarita, was sent good and patient, as was Paul, who was on the cruise. Most of the other guides were outstanding, as well. I definitely recommend eating at the hotel in Rome, the food there was better than any of the restaurants in town. Some of the hotels needed some upgrades, but were clean. The experience was amazing and very well planned. I highly recommend this trip!!

Italy & Greece

Our tour was great with the help of our Tour Director. The meals included was okay but we felt overall, they could have been better. Accommodations were all great except our last hotel was very hot.

• Christmas & New Year

Complete Greece with Puglia and Campania

10 Days Athens, Olympia, Mycenae, Argolis, Nafplio, Peloponnese, Delphi and Meteora

Discover the Beauty of Southern Italy & Greece

• Ocean Cruise

Discover Italy, Greece and Turkey

Complete Greece To Sicily End Rome

Athens, Peninsula and Sicily End Palermo

Rome, Puglia and Meteoras

Athens, Peninsula, Heart of Italy with Sorrento

Discover Italy, Greece and Turkey - Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Pearls of Italy and Greece with the Corinth Canal - Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

What people love about fully guided tours in greece and italy.

Trip overall was a good experience the tour director and our coach driver's were awesome!!! The hotel in Venice was awful outlet and lights didn't work their staff was rude and unaccomodating we couldn't use the pool on a hot day cause it was always closed thank God we only spent 1 day there with its filthy walls inside our room. We paid for one optional guide in Venice that was a joke the guide walked us to a abandoned church gave us some history on it and that was it went to St. Marks where none of us got to see the tomb and the tour was over didn't get close to our money's worth the entire group felt this way.

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided

16 Guest Small Group & Private Adventures

Greek Isles & Italy's Amalfi Coast

12 Days Air travel time: 11 Days, 10 Nights Land Journey Athens, the Acropolis, Mykonos, Little Venice, Santorini and Italy's Amalfi Coast

Meet Journey's Greek Isles & Italy's Amalfi Coast

Simply amazing. imagine walking amongst the ruins of the parthenon atop the citadel acropolis... slowly and intently make your way across the terrace to view the setting santorini sun... explore the streets of sorrento as the shadows cast their moving creations against the stuccoed walls of this charming coastal town... discover the isle of capri and find out why ancient roman emperors vacationed on the amalfi coast., why you'll love this journey:.

• We enjoy walking on our sightseeing adventures
• Journey Tour Captain beginning-to-end
• 15 Meals: 10 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners, 1 Farewell Aperitif
• Local Cuisine with Premium Wine & Cocktails
• Luggage Portage throughout your Journey, WiFi
• Meet & Greet at Airport with Arrival Transfer
• Accommodation at hand-picked Hotels: 2 Nights Athens, 2 Nights Mykonos, 3 Nights Santorini, 3 Nights Sorrento
• 'Master of Your Day' with our Exclusive Premium Sightseeing
• Special Now Journey Tastings throughout the Journey
• Comfy transportation throughout
• Admission fees, taxes, and gratuities excluding the Journey Tour Captain

See the complete Day-by-Day Itinerary

Journey's Adventure through Greece & the Amalfi Coast

TRIP COMMENCES: ATHENS , 2 Days/2 Nights HISTORY. CULTURE. CUISINE. The perfect beginning in the heart of the Greek Empire. MYKONOS , 2 Days/2 Nights THE FAMOUS ISLE OF MYKONOS. Enjoying the good life on this Greek Isle.

SANTORINI , 3 Days/3 Nights SAINT IRENE WELCOMES YOU. Exploring legends and soaking up the sun.

TRIP FINALE: AMALFI COAST - SORRENTO: 3 Days/3 Nights THE ENCHANTED AMALFI COAST. Only 1 hour, 50 minutes' flight time.

Journey's Hotels on this Journey Journey's  Greece to Italy's Amalfi Coast adventure includes a full, hot daily breakfast (table service or buffet), 4 of the 9 dinners and 4+ to 5 Star hotel properties featuring large, air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about this Journey Answers to questions we've been asked about this trip and our approach to travel.

Itinerary at a Glance DAYS 1-2: ATHENS | DAYS 3-4: MYKONOS | DAYS 5–7: SANTORINI | DAYS 8-10: SORRENTO PENINSULA & AMALFI COAST | DAY 11: DEPARTURE DAY

FIRST THINGS FIRST: Consider our Flight and Early Arrival Options Your flight to Athens should land on Day 1 of the itinerary — this means you should depart your home airport the day prior — your round-trip travel time on this Journey is 12 Days (11 Days, 10 Nights Land). Many of our travelers arrive a "full day early" to recover from their overnight flight — Inquire with us about a pre-tour overnight hotel room in Athens. Airfare is not included. Inquire about our Business Class and Premium Economy Airfare.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Amazing athens.

Day 1: Welcome to Athens, Greece: Birthplace of Western Civilization

Upon arrival into Athens Airport, you will meet the Journey Meet & Greet team after clearing customs and then enjoy the included transfer to check in to your hotel in the city's heart. Upon arrival into Athens, check in to your hotel. If you have arrived early, have no fears, you can drop your bags and set off to wander Athen's streets and start to soak up the Greek feel.

Tonight enjoy a special welcome dinner in Athens with your Journey Tour Captain.

Final hotel assignments are made at around 60 days prior to the adventure. A comparable hotel will be utilized should our space be sold out by the time you book —  we will advise you of your final hotels.

This morning we make our way to the ancient citadel that is set atop a high rocky outcropping above the city. The site contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance with the most famous being the Parthenon. A view into ancient Greece and its amazing history is what this morning's adventure is all about.

After the adventure, the balance of the afternoon is at your leisure.

Journey is Different: Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Athens at leisure.

BACK TO TOP

Day 3: To the Isle of Mykonos

Today we make our way to the airport for our quick flight to the island of Mykonos (flights are quoted separately). Upon arrival, we make our way to our hotel to check in, freshen up and enjoy some time before our Discovery Walk of Old Town Mykonos.

Enjoy the Discovery Walk with your Tour Captain as we explore Little Venice and the island of Mykonos. 

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner.  

Our Deluxe Hotels Collection: Deluxe: Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa, Myconian Collection or Similar Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure. Our Classic Hotel Collection: Classic: Niriides Homes & Villas or Similar Our Lotus Hotel Collection: Lotus: Suites of Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa, Myconian Collection or Similar Lotus class features exceptional room categories in our world-class hotels.

Day 4: Mykonos: A Day at Leisure

Enjoy a complete day at leisure on Mykonos.

Option for the Day: Mykonos Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos - $185 per person. Approximately 7 to 8 hours. Explore the Cyclades islands on this adventure as you sail the Aegean to these uninhabited islands. Time for swimming and snorkeling, optionally add on a visit with admission to the archaeological site at Delos complete with a :90 minute tour. Included light lunch onboard with beverages and roundtrip transfers. Other Ideas: How about renting a "Quad" (four-wheeler) and exploring Mykonos on your own. So many beaches and sites to see.

Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Mykonos at leisure.

Santorini –  Saint Irene's Island

Day 5: To the Isle of Santorini

Today we make our way to the airport for a quick flight connecting through Athens to the island of Santorini (flight times are about 2:15 hours:minutes and prices are quoted separately –  some itineraries will feature the fast jet ferry - about 2:00 hours). Upon arrival, we make our way to our hotel to check in, freshen up and enjoy some time before our Discovery Walk.

On the Discovery Walk we experience a Now Journey exclusive (it's a surprise!) with your Tour Captain as we explore Thera, the capital of Santorini.  

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner on Santorini. Get ready for amazing sights and cuisine. 

Day 6: Exploring Santorini

Late after the adventure, the balance of the afternoon will be at your leisure.

Journey is Different: Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore at leisure.

Day 7: Santorini: Day at Leisure

Plan Your Day Fill your day with excitement and discovery. Or just find that perfect space to enjoy your good read, or maybe it's time to continue working on your own piece of literature —  whichever you prefer, today is the perfect day to enjoy as you desire.

Option for the Day: Cooking Class in Santorini - $185 per person and includes round-trip transportation. Approximately 3 to 4 hours. Discover the Greek cooking secrets as you learn and prepare classic dishes from the Chef. The small group environment provides for a fun atmosphere and then enjoy the fruit of your labor paired with delicious Greek wine.

Journey is Different: Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Santorini at leisure.

Amalfi Coast

Day 8: Bound for the Amalfi Coast

Today, we make our way to the airport for our included flight to Italy and the Amalfi Coast (flights are quoted separately).

Upon arrival we transfer to our home for the next 3 days and nights in Sorrento. Never been to Pompeii? Read below!

Option for the Afternoon: Journey's Guided Tour of Pompeii with Admission - $188 per person. Some guests may want to optionally experience our tour of Pompeii —  enjoy our Journey Guide as they lead you through the ruins of this amazing lost and now found Roman city. Includes onward transfer to Sorrento later in the afternoon.

Enjoy the Discovery Walk with your Tour Captain as we explore Sorrento. 

Your Journey Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner at our favorite restaurant on the coast.  

Our Deluxe Hotels Collection: Deluxe: Grand Hotel Capodimonte Our Deluxe Package includes these 4 Star and 5 Star properties with most hotels featuring a Standard or similar category room —  inquire if you'd like to upgrade for a larger room and/or category with a specific view (where available). Hotel room assignments are made closer to tour departure. Our Classic Hotel Collection: Classic: Hotel Bristol or Similar Our Lotus Hotel Collection: Lotus: Grand Hotel Capodimonte: Sky Suite Lotus class features exceptional room categories in our world-class hotels.

Day 9: Exploring the Isle of Capri and the Amalfi Coast

Tonight, consider joining your Tour Captain to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Sorrento at your leisure.

Day 10: A Day at Leisure

Today, enjoy a complete day at leisure.

Option for the Day: Cooking Class in Sorrento - $188 per person. Approximately 3 to 4 hours. Enjoy a cooking class with cuisine from Campania and the Amalfi Coast in the kitchen of a Chef. A wonderful experience that complements your stay in Sorrento. Includes roundtrip transportation.

Later tonight we meet for our farewell event.

After returning to our hotel, enjoy some leisure time and then meet on the terrace for our special Aperitif to celebrate our time together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends! Until our next Journey we wish you health and happiness!

Day 11: Departure Day Or Extend Your Adventure

Your Journey ends this morning after breakfast. May we suggest an extension:

Perhaps extending your stay in Italy is the right next move? Tempting? Please inquire with Reservation about extensions and pricing.

© 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 NOW JOURNEY LLC

Ultimate Greece & Italy

Take the ultimate Greece and Italy vacation by combining two of YMT’s most popular tours.

Your tour begins in  Athens . See thousands of years of history in monuments including Hadrian’s Arch and the legendary  Acropolis . Next, travel by ferry to Mykonos. Be charmed by this island famous for its domed churches painted the colors of the Greek flag, and its hilltop windmills.

You’ll continue to Santorini, which many consider the prettiest island in the world. With its black sand beaches and incredible sunsets overlooking the caldera, you might soon agree! Spend a final day in Athens, then say  Buongiorno ! to Rome.

History buffs will not be disappointed on their Roman holiday. Enjoy guided tours of Vatican City and Rome, with highlights including the pristine Sistine Chapel and the Roman Forum.

Head next to peaceful villages and towns including  Orvieto ,  Bologna , Pisa, and Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Next, explore the canals of  Venice  on foot and by boat-automobiles are forbidden in this captivating city. Your final full day starts with a visit to Medieval Verona , the setting of Shakespeare’s  Romeo and Juliet . That evening, your Italy and Greece trip ends with a farewell feast in sophisticated Milan.

• 4 nights in Athens with sightseeing
• Visit Greece’s most popular islands—2 nights each in Mykonos & Santorini
• Visit the Acropolis & the Parthenon
• Visit Rome, Florence, and Venice—Italy’s three most spectacular cities
• See the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo frescoes in Vatican City
• See for yourself and marvel at the angle of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Murano & Burano Tour

Discover the Islands of Murano and Burano on an unforgettable guided tour.

Activity level

• Very Active

Tour Includes

2 Countries

Sightseeing

• The Vatican City

Hotel Accommodations

• Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy
• 16 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners
• A professionally trained English-speaking local tour director who is knowledgeable of the area and will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

• To and from your hotel room throughout your land tour for one piece of Checked Baggage per person.

Athens, Greece

Milan, Italy

Your vacation begins as you depart on your transatlantic flight. Overnight in flight.

Arrive in Athens, Greece, the land of great philosophers, artists and the birthplace of democracy. If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, you will be transferred to your hotel where the balance of the day is at leisure. This evening, you’ll get a chance to meet all your fellow travelers and your YMT Tour Director at the welcome briefing and dinner at the hotel. (D)

Moxy Athens City or similar

Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Athens. You will see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, the Parliament, the monument of the Unknown Soldier, and Constitution Square. Then it’s on to the most famous site in Athens—the Acropolis, atop which lies the stunning 2,500 year old Parthenon Temple built to honor the goddess Athena. Finally, this morning you will visit the new Acropolis Museum. The afternoon is at leisure and you are free to explore the Plaka district in the shadow of the Acropolis, Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. The maze of cobblestone pedestrian streets is lined with shops, boutiques, souvenir stands and flea market stalls that beckon all who enter. You will have plenty of time to browse through the many shops and souvenir stalls or you can relax in one of the many tavernas or cafes. This evening you can experience an optional fun and entertaining Greek night. (B)

Add-On : Dinner & Music at Zafiro’s.

Today you will have the full day to explore more of this ancient city. We recommend you join our full-day optional tour to Delphi and the Temple of Apollo, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greek history. Delphi was the center of the ancient world and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits at the foot of mount Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty overlooking the Gulf of Corinth. .If you are looking for a shorter adventure, consider joining the food market tour of Athens (B)

Add-On : Athens Food Market Tour & Lunch/ Delphi & the Temple of Apollo

Please note that you can only choose either Delphi or Plaka Food Market, as it’s not possible to do both on the same day.

This morning, we take the short drive to the port of Piraeus to board your ferryboat and cruise toward the islands. This afternoon, we arrive at the island of Mykonos, famous for its windmills, whitewashed buildings, and domed churches. This charming island is just 33 square miles, and has a resident population of around 10,000. This evening, you can enjoy a plethora of exceptionally fresh seafood in the waterfront cafes and tavernas in the area of Mykonos Town known as Little Venice. (B, D)

Hotel Kamari or similar

Note: Local regulations in Greece mandate that guests carry their own luggage on and off ferry boats.

Add-On : Delos Island Tour

El Greco Resort & Spa or similar

Add-On : Oia, Fira & the wines of Santorini

You have a full day to explore this unique island paradise at your own pace, or join our optional Island Highlights Tour where you’ll visit and see all the main sights. These will include Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption during the 17th century BC and was preserved in perfect condition; the Red Beach; and several beautiful traditional villages. (B, D)

Add-On : Santorini Sunset Cruise

The last morning in the islands is yours to relax on the beach, or explore the array of shops for last minute souvenirs and gifts before we head to the port around lunchtime for our early afternoon ferryboat departure for Athens. We arrive back in the evening at the port of Piraeus and take the short transfer to Athens for the last overnight stay in Greece. (B)

Transfer to Athens airport to check in for your flight to Rome. A YMT representative will welcome you at Rome Airport and you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening learn about the next stages of your tour in Italy, then relax over a tasty Italian dinner. (B, D)

Hotel H10 Roma or similar

This morning, take a guided tour of Vatican City, home of the Pope. Explore the Vatican Museums, which house some of the most important and valuable art treasures in the world. Visit the Sistine Chapel to see floor-to-ceiling biblical frescoes painted by Michelangelo in around 1512, St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square. (B)

Note: Touring the Vatican Museums requires walking up several staircases and 2-3 hours of walking.

A full-day sightseeing tour includes the highlights of this Eternal City. Today’s sights include outside views of the Roman Forum, once a marketplace and center of daily Roman life, the Piazza Navona and the renowned Spanish Steps along with the fabled Trevi Fountain. (B)

Add-On : Ostia Antica tour with dinner

Depart Rome this morning and travel north into the picturesque Umbrian countryside. We stop and take the funicular up to the ancient town of Orvieto, where you can explore the rich history of this charming town and admire a variety of Etruscan, Medieval, and Renaissance art. The Orvieto funicular (a cliff cable railway) first opened in 1888 and uses water and gravity to transport its cars up and down the hillside. We then continue north and by late afternoon arrive at Montecatini Terme, a beautiful spa town that was built around its mineral water springs, where we spend the next two nights. (B)

Hotel Boston or similar

Add-On : Tuscan Wine Tasting Dinner & Music

Today’s full-day excursion starts with a short drive toward the Mediterranean coast and the city of Pisa. See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and enjoy a walking tour of Florence, during which you can see the 13th century Duomo with the Brunelleschi dome and Giotto’s Campanile (bell tower). See Ghiberti’s golden “Gates of Paradise” doors at the marble-clad Baptistery of St. John, the Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge spanning the River Arno, complete with shops built along it. (B)

We drive northeast and stop in Bologna. Probably best known for its culinary tradition, Bologna also has an impressive history and is home to one of the world’s oldest universities, founded in 1088. Enjoy some time on your own and perhaps pasta with authentic bolognese sauce (ragu alla bolognese in Italian) before we continue toward the Adriatic coast. We’ll arrive in the Venice area by late afternoon and will stay just a few miles across the lagoon from the historic city. (B, D)

Smart Hotel Holiday Venice Mestre or similar

Add-On : Murano & Burano Tour

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of this amazing city, now a World Heritage Site, built on an archipelago of 117 islands in a lagoon. Transfer by boat to St. Mark’s Square where you’ll begin your walking tour to see the lavish Doge’s Palace, (entrance not included) and the fabled Bridge of Sighs as well as the Rialto Bridge, Venice’s oldest, spanning the Grand Canal. This afternoon you are free to wander through the labyrinth of canals and alleyways, lined with boutiques and souvenir shops, or perhaps relax and “people watch” over an espresso or tasty Italian gelato. If you want to get out on the water, there are a variety of boat rides available (not included) from water taxis to the traditional gondolas. (B)

A dd-On : Murano & Burano Tour

Today we head through the lush northern Italian landscape to Verona. A city best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, it also offers wonderful examples of Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture. Our walking tour includes the Duomo (cathedral), Piazza delle Erbe with the famous Torre dei Lamberti (high tower), and of course the house of Juliet, with its famous balcony. Continue west to Milan, capital of the region of Lombardy. Your panoramic sightseeing tour highlights will include Piazza del Duomo, the main central square surrounded by several important buildings, such as Milan’s Gothic cathedral and the Royal Palace of Milan. You’ll also have a chance to see Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an impressive and ornate indoor shopping arcade built in 1865, as well as La Scala Opera House. (B, D)

Novotel Malpensa or similar

Your Italy vacation comes to an end today as you depart for home with newfound friends and a suitcase full of memories to last a lifetime!

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

Inquire Now

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare. Passport required.

Add airfare?

We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 888-860-1969 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.

No, triples are not permitted.

You should arrive in Athens no later than 3pm. Your flight home from Milan should depart no earlier than 10am.

No, not at this time.

Make your vacation extra special by adding optional excursions to your tour. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your trip, these experiences slot seamlessly into your package, and we’ll take care of all the logistics for you. Call us for pricing, and remember that adding an optional experience might increase the overall activity level of the tour, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Enjoy an evening of dinner and dancing at Zafiros! Nestled in the hills of Attiko Alsos, enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Athens by night. Then get settled in as traditional Greek dancers go through the steps of the “zeibekiko” and the more intense “kalamatiano,” accompanied by live music. Don’t forget to partake in the traditional Greek “Zorba” dance with your fellow travelers! During this interactive dancing and music experience, enjoy a full buffet of Greek dishes, including Greek Salad, spinach pie, and a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian options.

• Round Trip Transportation
• Traditional Greek Dancing and Music
•  Buffet style Greek dinner (water, soft drinks, and wine included)

Note: This is a public event and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well, however YMT guests will be able to sit altogether at the same table(s).

Duration: 4 hours (evening)

Activity Level: Easy

Price: $109 USD

Join your fellow travelers for an unforgettable afternoon as you discover the Islands of Murano and Burano. After your private boat ride from San Marco Square, see the exquisite glasswork of Murano and watch how the glassblowers create these works of art. Continue on to Burano, well known for the old tradition of lace making, where your guide will take you through the streets lined with quaint multi-colored homes.

•  Private boat ride from San Marco Square to Murano & Burano islands
• Complimentary tea or coffee at the Colleoni Glass factory
• Included workshop – Create your very own one-of-a-kind earrings or key ring of Murano glass to take home
• Tour of Burano

Duration: Approx. 5 hours (afternoon)

Activity Level: Active

Price: $39 USD

Join us on this culinary journey to learn about the best of Greek cuisine! Start your tour on Athinas Street in central Athens, famous for its homeware stores. Here we will explore the basics of the Greek kitchen, visit several bakeries, and stroll along a street dedicated entirely to cheese and spices. Next, continue to “Terra Fresh,” where we can taste a wide range of Greek nuts, fruits, herbs, olive oils, spices, and ouzo. We continue on to Varvakios Market, the oldest and most traditional food market in Greece, open since 1884 and a true testament to fresh Greek produce. Next, enjoy a visit to a Greek charcuterie, famous for it’s pastourma and soutzouki, as well as it’s aged cheese and salted meats. Don’t forget to sample a typical dessert of traditional Greek donuts and coffee! To complete your tour, we will head to the heart of Athens where we can enjoy a traditional lunch including one of the most popular Greek dishes, the “gyro”.

• Roundtrip transfers
• English speaking Guide
• Tastings throughout market tour
• Lunch including a variety of appetizers for the table, a main course of various grilled meats (beef, chicken, and pork), and fruit for dessert (includes bottled water, all other drinks not included)

Note: Substitutions or alternatives to accommodate food allergies, intolerances, or special diets may not be possible, subject to local conditions and specific food vendors. Please inform your guide or Tour Director if you have any allergy, intolerance, or special diet. This tour requires walking and standing for long periods of time. This tour and the full-day Delphi tour cannot be booked together, as the timing for both tours overlaps. This tour is private for YMT guests only.

Duration: Approx. 6 hours (morning)

Price: $149 USD

Visit one of the most important archaeological sites in Greek history with a tour to ancient Delphi and the Temple of Apollo. This full day excursion will begin with a scenic drive through the picturesque fertile plains of Boeotia to Delphi. Delphi, which lies on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, was considered the center of the ancient world dating back to approximately 500 B.C. and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Guided walking tour through the archaeological sites of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo
• Admission to the Treasury of the Athenians and the Delphi Archaeological
• 3 Course Greek lunch in the town of Delphi including water (no other drinks included)
• Short photo stop in the stunning mountain town of Arachova

Note: This tour involves walking/ standing for long periods of time over occasionally uneven terrain. This tour is not adaptable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This is a public tour and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well. This tour and the Plaka Food Market tour cannot be booked together, as the timing for both tours overlaps.

Duration: Approx. 10 hours (full-day)

Join your fellow travelers today on a short ferry ride from Mykonos harbor to the mostly uninhabited island of Delos. This island is strongly believed to be the birthplace of the god Apollo, and is considered one of the most sacred mythological, historical and archaeological sites in Greece. Delos, a World Heritage UNESCO site, is known as the largest open-air museum in Europe and is currently only inhabited by archaeologists conducting excavations. While on your guided tour of the island you will see the House of Cleopatra, Temple of Apollo, the famous Lion Terrace, and other breathtaking mosaics and statues. Your visit to the island is sure to capture the ancient ways the people lived!

• Approximately 45-minute relaxing ferry ride from Mykonos to Delos
• Guided walking tour through Europe’s largest open-air museum, containing Europe’s first synagogue, the first Egyptian temple, the famous Lion Terrace, the House of Cleopatra and a Temple of Apollo
• Approximately 1 hour of leisure time to explore the ruins on your own

Note: This tour requires walking and standing for long periods of time, often over uneven terrain. This tour is not adaptable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This is a public tour and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well.

Duration: Approx. 4 Hours (Afternoon)

Price: $99 USD

A trip to Greece would not be complete without witnessing a spectacular Grecian Oia sunset. Join your fellow travelers this evening on a sunset cruise aboard the largest sailboat in Santorini, the Afroditi. The cruise will take you to the middle of the Santorini Caldera where two uninhabited volcanic islands await. You will have the opportunity here to photograph and leisurely climb up a volcanic crater, offering an experience unlike any other. Upon leaving Nea Kameni you will arrive at the second volcanic island of Palea Kameni where you will have time to relax and unwind in the natural hot springs or remain on board and take in the beautiful scenery. Your captain will anchor near Thirasia Island where you will be able to enjoy your dinner on board and take in the mesmerizing scenery before departing into the Oia Sunset.

• A visit to the active crater in Nea Kameni
• Enjoy a traditional Greek meal on board, served buffet style and including many meat and vegetarian dishes. Softs drinks and Santorinian wine are included. Menu subject to change.

Note: This tour is not adaptable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This is a public tour and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well.

Duration: Approx. 7 Hours (Afternoon)

Upon arrival in the port of Santorini, enjoy this private guided tour to the most picturesque and emblematic sites of Santorini! Our first stop is the town of Oia (pronounced “EE-yah”), one of the most photographed places in Greece, famous for its breathtaking sunsets and white houses built in tiers along the hillside. Learn about the history of this fascinating town and its inhabitants, then continue on to a local winery to taste a variety of wine cultivated on the island. The scenic location of the winery affords the opportunity to enjoy the colors of the Santorini skyline and surrounding vineyard. After the winery visit, continue to Fira, where you will have free time to walk and browse the local small shops and cafes.

• Round Trip transportation
• English Speaking guide
• Wine Tasting

Note: Oia and Fira both involve extensive walking and standing over cobblestones and/or uneven terrain, as well as several steps. This tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This tour is private for YMT guests only.

Activity Level: Moderate

Enjoy your evening in classic Tuscan style with a vineyard tour, wine tasting and dinner. Your private coach will take you from your hotel to the Fattoria Il Poggio Winery, where you will be met by one of the property’s knowledgeable guides. Learn about the traditional wine making process and head to the converted wine cellar where your 3-course meal and wine tasting session await. Your first course will begin with an assorted antipasti menu paired with three white wines to sample, followed by three red wines to complement your main dish. Follow it up with local dessert paired with a traditional Vin Santo.

• Guided walking tour of the vineyard
• Dinner at a wine cellar with live music; Menu includes handmade pasta, a chicken, sausage, and ribs platter, and two sides of your choice. Dessert will be a tiramisu served and almond biscuits. All meals will come with red or white wine and unlimited water

Note: This tour involves an approximately 200-yard walk with a slight incline.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours (evening)

Price: $72 USD

Experience the majesty of ancient Rome on this historic tour. After picking you up from your hotel, your coach will bring you to the ruins of Ostia Antica on the mouth of the River Tiber, once a busy port city of the Roman Empire. After the tour, enjoy a delicious 3 course dinner at a restaurant nearby the ruins before returning to the hotel.

• Guided exploration of the Ostia Antica ruins
• 3-course meal including water, and a choice of a glass of wine or a soft drink

Note: This tour requires moderate walking and standing for long periods of time, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Terrain is mostly flat and even but may require walking some stairs in amphitheater. There is one step going into the restaurant entrance, two to access each room of the restaurant, and two to reach the toilets. If the tour falls on the first Sunday of the month, the price will be lower, as admission to Ostia Antica is free on such occasions.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours (afternoon)

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Europe , Greece , Italy , Travel

The complete italy and greece trip itinerary.

Blessed with sunny climates, thousands of years of history, idyllic beaches, and the most delicious and fresh cuisine, both Italy and Greece are both fantastic choices for a Mediterranean vacation. This Italy and Greece itinerary is perfect for anyone that wants to explore both countries.

It can be so difficult to choose one over the other!

On an Italy trip , you can explore a Seventh Wonder of the World, sail on mountain lakes, and see world-famous artworks like Michelangelo’s David. In Greece , you can island-hop in the Cyclades, stroll through white-washed cobblestone villages, and witness Greece’s ancient history at the Acropolis.

We’ve been lucky enough to visit both Italy and Greece. They are both incredible countries that I love. I’ve been getting a lot of questions recently about combining a trip to Greece and Italy. If you’ve got enough time to explore both destinations, I say go for it!

I would recommend allotting at least 10 days to each country. I’ve written this Italy and Greece itinerary to help you decide where to go, but if you’d like a more detailed Italy and Greece Trip Itinerary, I recommend downloading our combo guide written by myself and Kids are a Trip .

Should I go to Italy or Greece?

Both countries have similarities but they offer totally different cultural experiences. So, if you have the time, why not travel to Italy and Greece?!

Combining visits to both countries into a three-week vacation package will result in the most life-changing, memorable trip.

Following a three-week Italy and Greece itinerary also makes sense on a practical level. They’re both Mediterranean countries separated only by the Adriatic Sea, so there are lots of flight, ferry, cruise, and sightseeing tour travel options.

You won’t have to pack for two completely different sets of climates, either. Both countries boast dry and sunny weather for most of the year.

As you digest this three-week Italy and Greece itinerary and learn all the cool things to do in both places, you’ll realize that you simply cannot miss out on any of these amazing experiences.

Best Time to Visit Italy and Greece

The best time to visit both Greece and Italy is in the shoulder season from April – June and September – October. Italy’s and Greece’s warm climate ensures you will still be able to enjoy all the outdoor activities that you can do in summer while avoiding the intense, often dangerous heat of midsummer as well as the crowds and high prices.

Getting Between Italy and Greece

Unless you enjoy long bus rides or hauling your luggage between train connections, the best way to travel from Italy to Greece is either by flying or taking the ferry.

A local specialist in traveling throughout this region will probably tell you that flying is way faster and cheaper. But you might be in the mood (and have the time) for an epic sailing adventure! Either way, you have lots of options.

Fly between Greece and Italy

Thanks to Europe’s several budget/low-cost airlines, you could get round-trip flights booked from Italy to Greece for less than $40! In peak season, you can still find tickets for less than $100 if you book ahead.

Check out airlines like Jet2, Easyjet, and Ryanair for the best deals. Aegean Airlines, ITA, and Volotea also fly between Italy and Greece so it’s worth checking those too.

Ferry from Greece and Italy

The ferry schedule between Venice (where the Italy portion of this itinerary ends) and Athens (where the Greece section begins) is fairly limited. There are only four sailings a week and single tickets start from $250+ per person.

Oh, the journey time for this ferry ride is approximately 33 hours.

So no, you’re probably not going to sail from Italy to Greece or from Greece to Italy, but it’s an option if you have a big pile of books you want to read sitting on your nightstand. You also don’t need to rent a car to follow this itinerary so there’s no reason why you would have to take a ferry.

What’s the Best Way to Visit Greece and Italy in One Trip?

There are several ways to organize your Greece and Italy itinerary and each of them is great for different reasons. You should choose the option that best fits your needs. Take into consideration budget, mobility, time, and style of travel. For example, if you get very sea sick and don’t like being able to be on your own schedule, then a cruise might not be the best option for you.

If you don’t like to be around a lot of people, a tour might not be a good idea fit either. But if you’re traveling solo and you don’t feel comfortable planning and running your own trip, a do-it-yourself option may not be a good choice for you. I’ll lay out the pros and cons of each option below.

Cost Analysis of Italy and Greece Trip Options

Greece and italy tours.

Embarking on a three-week adventure to two countries that you might not have visited before can be daunting, even a guaranteed amazing trip like this one.

If you’re nervous or traveling solo, booking a multi-day Italy or Greece tour has a lot of benefits. You’ll get a tour director who is a local specialist in traveling this region with a lot of insider tips . Often, tours include some meals like a welcome and farewell dinner, plus you’ll get to make friends with your like-minded, fellow group members.

This two week Italy and Greece tour is a great option for anyone looking to travel in a group and not have to worry about any logistics. It’s also a fantastic price for a trip this length and has great reviews. It’s run by Trafalgar which is a very reputable tour company.

Pros of taking an Italy and Greece Tour

• Most things are taken care of for you
• Ability to pay over time
• Great option for solo travelers who want to make friends
• Good for those who don’t drive

Cons of taking an Italy and Greece Tour

• It’s very people-y
• You’re not on your own schedule
• Not a lot of flexibility
• Can be pricey

Italy and Greece Cruises

Another great way to explore these two beautiful countries is to take a cruise of the Aegean and Adriatic seas, allowing you to visit port cities in Greece and Italy. There are several great cruise options. If you’re on a budget, this 16-day cruise is only $3,200 USD and hits so many incredible places in both countries.

Pros of taking an Italy and Greece Cruise

• Accommodations and most food is taken care of for you
• Chances to make friends for solo travelers
• You get to see a lot of ocean

Cons of taking an Italy and Greece Cruise

• Not great if you get seasick
• Can be expensive
• You don’t get to see a lot of the interior of each country
• You’re only in each location for a short time

Do it Yourself Italy and Greece Itinerary

If you don’t think a tour or cruise will be a good option for you, then a DIY Italy and Greece Itinerary is probably going to be the best fit.

This is a detailed, day-by-day itinerary for exploring Italy and Greece over three weeks. If you’re based in the US, there tend to be more direct flights to Italy than Greece and they’re often more affordable.

However, you might personally find it more convenient and cheaper to fly to Greece. Feel free to book round-trip flights to one city in Italy or Greece or fly into one country and out of the other. It all depends on what works for your schedule, vacation time, and the deals you can find.

If you want a more detailed itinerary, I highly recommend downloading our Italy Greece Combo guides. They cover 20 days (10 in each country) and walk you through each day, giving you recommendations, schedules, tours, restaurants, and more. We’ve helped thousands of people travel to Italy and Greece with these guides.

Visiting all of the iconic cities and resort towns in Italy would take months if not years! This 10-day Italy itinerary is the perfect balance between bustling cities and picturesque countryside.

You’ll visit the capital city of ancient Rome, the floating city of Venice, and Florence as well as the regions of the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and the northern lakes.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

If you’re flying from the continental US, Rome is around nine hours ahead to six hours ahead. Excluding early morning departures, this itinerary works for anyone arriving in Rome on a red-eye flight or the day before.

Without delay, welcome to the Eternal City! Rome is Italy’s bustling ancient capital and the best place to begin a first-time Italian adventure.

After breakfast, spend your first morning on a Vespa or walking tour to see the highlights and orientate yourself in this sprawling city. Here are some of the top sights you can expect to see on a guided tour of modern and ancient Rome:

• Trevi Fountain
• The Pantheon
• Spanish Steps
• Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
• Roman Forum
• Castel Sant’Angelo
• Piazza Navona
• Piazza del Popolo
• Campo De Fiori Market

Ask your tour director for advice on where to eat a typical Italian meal during your time in Rome. They are a local specialist, after all! Try street food like the Roman suppli (a fried rice ball similar to Sicilian arancini) or porchetta panini as well as delicious dishes in restaurants.

You should leave room in your schedule to visit the Colosseum, not just see the outside. Book a guided tour to avoid long lines and to learn about the history.

On your first free evening, head across the River Tiber to the cool Trastevere neighborhood.

Day 2: Rome

It’s only possible to snap photos of the Trevi Fountain without the crowds if you visit very early in the morning. If you’d rather sleep in, after breakfast, spend your morning in Vatican City.

Don’t miss St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, and the Vatican Museums, home of the Sistine Chapel. Book a tour of the Vatican Museums so you don’t have to wait in a long line.

After visiting Vatican City, book a cooking class so you can learn how to make more authentic meals in contrast to the Italian dishes you’re probably used to making at home! And it goes without saying, but you should be eating as much homemade gelato in Rome as you can too.

Walk off all those delicious plates of Roman pasta and desserts in Villa Borghese before spending the evening in the Jewish Quarter.

Day 3: Amalfi Coast

It’s time to leave Rome and head south to the Amalfi Coast . This UNESCO-listed region offers charming hillside villages, calm waters, and beautiful white sands.

It takes around three and a half hours to travel there via Naples on the train , so set off early.

Here are some fun things to do during your free day on the Amalfi Coast:

• Positano Beach
• Villa Cimbrone
• Sunset at Ravello
• Fiordo di Furore
• Emerald Grotto
• Explore Sorrento
• Day Trip to Pompeii

Spend the night on the Amalfi Coast .

Day 4: Florence

Now, it’s time to visit the City of the Renaissance! Florence is the capital of Tuscany and a must for history lovers and culture vultures.

Take the train to Florence from the Amalfi Coast via Naples in the morning and arrive by early afternoon. Here are some of the best things you can do on your free afternoon in Naples:

• Climb the Dome of Florence’s Duomo
• Baptistry of St. John at the Duomo
• Walk Across Ponte Vecchio
• Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
• Uffizi Gallery
• Piazzale Michelangelo for views
• Basilica of Santa Croce
• Boboli Gardens
• Gelateria Santa Trinita
• Piazza della Signoria

Spend the night in Florence.

Day 5: Florence and Pisa

On your final morning in Florence, you may want to check out some of the top attractions you didn’t get around to visiting the day before.

Accademia Gallery, for example, usually opens at 8:15 am. This is a great time to see the Statue of David as it’s usually packed out!

The train from Florence to Pisa takes less than an hour and it’s en route to the colorful, coastal Cinque Terre villages so it’s the perfect stopover. Spend a few hours here taking Instagrammable photos of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Cathedral before hopping back on the train to head north.

Ideal towns to stay in on Cinque Terre for this itinerary are Monterosso al Mare or the nearby city of Levanto.

Day 6: Cinque Terre

Start off your full day in Cinque Terre in the picturesque village of Monterosso al Mare. This is the northernmost town of the five lands that make up Cinque Terre. The other four, from north to south, are Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

There are three ways you can explore Cinque Terre:

• By train – Purchase a Cinque Terre rail pass at any station to visit all five villages
• By ferry – Head to the dock for a day pass but note they don’t stop at Corniglia
• By foot – The Blue Trail connects all five villages but parts are often closed for maintenance

Exploring by train is the quickest and most efficient way to see all five villages. Enjoy the epic viewpoints, gelato, seafood, and watching the sunset from any of the Cinque Terre towns.

Day 7: Milan and Lake Como

Wake up bright and early to take the train from Cinque Terre. Plan to arrive in Milan early afternoon for a short stopover.

Here are some things you can see in Milan during your afternoon there:

• Milan’s Duomo Rooftop
• The Last Supper Painting by Da Vinci
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Head to the town of Bellagio on the banks of Lake Como where you’ll spend the night. You can take a train to Como and then a bus, but you might prefer to hire a driver for convenience.

Day 8: Lake Como

There’s only one way to spend your free day in Lake Como : sailing on the lake and exploring charming lakeside villages!

You have three sailing options:

• Catch a round-trip ferry
• Book a private boat tour
• Rent a boat

Spend the day stopping off at as many beautiful villages as you can and seeing incredible villas. Here is some inspiration:

• Town of Varenna
• Town of Menaggio
• Villa Balbianello in Lenno
• Villa Melzi in Bellagio
• Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo

Spend a second night in Bellagio.

Day 9: Venice

It’s time to explore the romantic, floating city of Venice! Book a driver for your return trip to Milan and take the train to Venice.

The first thing you should do is take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and down the waterways that run beside Venice’s narrow streets. You’ll be able to see lots of churches, city squares, and bridges from the viewpoint that Venice is meant to be seen.

Spend your free evening eating cicchetti (Venitian tapas) and if you’re in the mood for after-dinner drinks, head to Harry’s Bar where Hemingway once frequented.

Day 10: Venice

After breakfast, spend your last day in Italy seeing as many of Venice’s top sights as you can. Be an early bird to avoid the cruise ship crowds! Here are some suggestions:

• St. Mark’s Square and Basilica
• Doge’s Palace
• Rialto Bridge and Market
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection
• St Mark’s Campanile
• Bridge of Sighs
• Libreria Acqua Alta
• Islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello

Depending on your travel plans, either fly out to Athens tonight or enjoy your last night in Venice.

After spending over a week on a sightseeing tour of Italy doing what the Romans do, it’s time to explore the island nation of Greece. This 10-day itinerary offers heaped helpings of ancient history with a side dish of wonderful beaches and glistening turquoise waters on the Greek Islands.

You’ll visit the ancient city of Athens on mainland Greece before venturing on an island-hopping Greece tour of Crete and two islands in the Cyclades, Santorini and Naxos.

Day 11: Arrive in Athens

Welcome to Greece and its capital city, Athens! Note that Greece is one hour ahead of Italy.

Depending on what time to arrive, you may be able to start exploring Ancient Athens today. Look at the list of things to do on tomorrow’s date as there are endless things to do here to fill your time.

Day 12: Athens

Continue exploring Athens and all of its spectacular ancient sites, some of which are thousands of years old. Here are all of the sites you can visit just within the Acropolis Hill area:

• The Parthenon
• Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Monument of Agrippa
• Temple of Nike Athena
• Porch of the Caryatids at the Erechtheion
• Old Temple of Athena Polias
• Olive Tree of the Pandroseion

Spend the rest of your day exploring the Acropolis Museum, which has an on-site restaurant, and the Ancient Agora of Athens.

Day 13: Chania, Crete

Take a flight out to Chania airport on Crete, the first of the three Greek Islands you’ll visit on this trip, to start your island-hopping adventure.

Once you arrive in Crete, here are some things you can do in Chania or nearby:

• Samariá Gorge
• Elafonisi Beach
• Adkadi Monastery
• Balos Lagoon

Spend the evening wandering through the old port of Chania. Don’t miss out on tasting local cheeses served with olives and herbs, typically freshly prepared.

Day 14: Chania, Crete

There are tons more places to explore on your full day in Chania. Start your day wandering around Old Chania Market, which is also known as the Agora. You can buy lots of local fresh produce or souvenirs here.

Next, take a day trip to Falassarna Beach which is only an hour’s drive away.

When you get back, check out the Minoan Ruins of Chania and the Church of Agios Nikolaos before enjoying a relaxing evening.

Day 15: Eastern Crete

Who’s ready for a mini road trip?! Rent a car or book a driver and head to Eastern Crete making some stops along the way:

• Stop 1 – Fortezza in Rethymno
• Stop 2 – Rimondi Fountain
• Stop 3 – Neratze Mosque
• Stop 4 – Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon
• Stop 5 – Porta Guora

Stay near the towns of Malia or Elounda.

Day 16: Spinalonga or Heraklion

You have a free day to do whatever you please! Hang out at your resort, book a day trip with a tour director who is a local specialist in Crete, or explore independently with a rental car. Here are some great choices of what to do with your day:

Option 1: Palace of Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Option 2: Island of Spinalonga

You can either catch a ferry to Spinalonga or book a sightseeing tour extension online or through your hotel.

Day 17: Santorini

The white-washed island of Santorini is a must-visit on any first trip to Greece. Head to the ferry terminal and hop on a boat to Athinios Port.

Some of the best places to stay in Santorini are Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira.

Spend your first day relaxing on one of the wonderful beaches on this island before enjoying a sunset boat ride. You’ll get the best view of the Oia windmills!

Day 18: Santorini

To make the most of your day in Santorini, book a sightseeing tour of the island’s highlights. Here are some of the hotspots you should aim to see on a day tour:

• Ancient Ruins of Akrotiri
• Santorini Vineyards
• Mount Profitis Ilias
• Monastery of Profitis Ilias
• Fira and Oia Hiking Path

If you drink wine, compare a Greek wine tasting with glasses you enjoyed in Italy. After a few sips, you’ll not be able to say which you prefer.

Day 19: Naxos

Take the two to four-hour ferry from Santorini to your final island in Greece, Naxos. Because it’s a long boat ride and you probably won’t arrive until lunch, spend your afternoon relaxing on one of the best beaches in Naxos:

• Agios Giorgios
• Agios Prokopios
• Plaka Beach

Spend the night at your resort before your last full day of sightseeing tomorrow.

Day 20: Naxos

Rent a car, book a driver, or join a group tour to see the highlights of Naxos.

Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

• Eggares Olive Oil Museum
• Kouroi of Melanes
• Apeiranthos
• Zas Mountain
• Town of Chalki
• Limpertas Manolis Pottery
• Temple of Demeter

Spend your last evening enjoying dinner with a beach view or getting stuck into a Greek cooking class.

Day 21: Return to Athens

Take the ferry or fly from Naxos to Athens. Ferries take around three hours but the flight is only 45 minutes.

Or you can take a direct flight from Naxos to Rome if you booked a round-trip flight to Italy from your home airport.

Use this Guide to Plan an Epic Italy and Greece Trip

This Italy and Greece itinerary includes plenty of inspiration, logistical info, and advice so you can enjoy an incredible three-week vacation.

You do not have to choose between Greece or Italy and there is absolutely no doubt that you will have an unforgettable time on this amazing trip exploring both countries. I hope this helps you have the best trip ever!

And if you need help deciding what to do, the best tours, restaurants and more, be sure to download our Italy Greece Itinerary – an amazing 2 for 1 combo!

Not the Trip You Need?

Not exactly the trip you’re looking for? Don’t worry, I also offer custom trip planning by request for many destinations! Learn more here.

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Mediterranean Marvels: A Grand Tour of Italy and Greece

Embark on an unforgettable Italy to Greece tour. Immerse yourself in an eight-day extravaganza, savoring the finest offerings of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Indulge in world-class wines and glide along the enchanting canals, experiencing the very essence of La Dolce Vita. Then, venture to Greece and take in the breathtaking beauty of Mykonos and Santorini, with their pristine white-sand beaches. Wander through the charming streets of Santorini, explore the volcanic wonders, and unwind in the rejuvenating thermal spas, all while savoring the unparalleled sunsets

Primary Location

• Accommodation in standard-level hotels
• Meals as per the itinerary
• Professional services of an experienced English-speaking tour escort and visits with English-speaking local guides in Italy
• Traditional Tuscan lunch in Montepulciano
• Visits to Assisi, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Padua, Venice, Tuscany Wine Region, and Rome
• Spritz & Cicchetti experience in Venice
• Tour of Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica with skip-the-line entrance
• Rome by Sunset Tour with Gelato
• Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard the coach buses in Italy to be in touch with family and friends
• Headsets to follow the information provided by the tour leader and local guides in Italy
• Stretch your legs with extra legroom on the coaches in Italy! More space is provided on board to pamper travellers with the most comfortable trip
• Shared half-day city tour of Athens & New Museum with entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking tour guide for the Athens city tour
• All airport, port, and hotel transfers
• Ferry tickets in economy class between Athens (Piraeus) to Mykonos
• Ferry tickets in economy class between Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)

Not Included:

• Flight from Rome to Athens (please consult with us for the most up-to-date pricing)
• International airfare
• Gratuities to guides and drivers
• Travel insurance
• Additional meals when not mentioned on the itinerary
• Entrance fees to monuments or museums when not mentioned on the itinerary
• Local city tax for overnight stays
• Visas required for entry into the country as necessary

Pricing Details

Click Book Online for pricing!

• Please be aware that flight rates between Rome and Athens (or vice versa) may fluctuate throughout the year based on factors like airline availability and demand. Please consult with us for the most up-to-date pricing
• From price is CAD per person, based on double occupancy, and for travel in low season
• Surcharges may apply during fairs and holidays
• The final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel
• Prices are subject to change

Optional Extras:

• The option to start your trip in Athens, rather than in Rome, is also available upon request
• Pre-tour accommodation in Rome
• Optional Venice Island Hotel Upgrade (available upon request)
• Optional Excursions: Pisa Excursion from Florence & Ancient Rome Tour with Colosseum
• Please note that all optional excursions are subject to change and availability. They can be booked through the Tour Escort in Italy
• Upgrade to 5-star accommodation in Greece
• Opt for high-speed hydrofoil transportation between Athens (Piraeus) and Mykonos, as well as between Santorini and Athens (Piraeus)
• Choose airfare for your journeys between Athens to Mykonos, Mykonos to Santorini, and Santorini to Athens
• Customize your trip further with a range of additional options and upgrades available in Greece. This includes the option to extend your stay with extra nights, select from a diverse array of shared, small-group, or private activities, and upgrade your accommodation to align perfectly with your preferences

Travel Privately

You can request to book this tour privately, travelling only with people you know.

DAY 1: ROME ARRIVAL

Benvenuti a Roma! After your arrival at the airport, meet and greet your driver where you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy your first day in the city at your own leisure.

In the evening, pick up from your hotel to the meeting point for the departure of Rome at sunset tour. The local expert guide will lead you to discover the wonders of the Eternal City, charming by day – absolutely romantic at sunset. After the walking tour, there is only one thing missing to end this experience – relax by enjoying a creamy and tasty Gelato, it’s on us! The tour ends at the Spanish Steps area. Return to your hotel on your own and overnight stay.

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

DAY 2: ROME > ASSISI > SIENA > FLORENCE

Departure around 7:30 am from your hotel for Assisi, a tiny town in Umbria surrounded by walls built in the Middle Ages, famous for the Basilica of St. Francis. After exploring Assisi at your own pace, board the bus for Siena, a Medieval town known for its Palio horse race around the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. Continue on to Florence, where you will check in to your hotel before dinner. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Raffaello, Florence, or similar

DAY 3: FLORENCE

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing drive to Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Visit the Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, and the Baptistery with its famous bronze doors. Admire Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce before spending an afternoon of leisure in Florence or opting for an excursion to Pisa for a tour of the Square of Miracles, home to the famed Leaning Tower. Meals: B, L

DAY 4: FLORENCE > BOLOGNA > PADUA > VENICE

After breakfast in Florence, depart to Bologna. In Bologna, wander through seemingly endless elegant porticos, visiting Piazza del Nettuno, Piazza Maggiore, King Renzo Palace, and the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the biggest in the world. In the afternoon, continue to Padua and then Venice, renowned for its canals and gondola boats. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Delfino Mestre, Venice, or similar

DAY 5: VENICE

After breakfast, jump aboard a water taxi to the famous St. Mark’s Square, where you will visit the Doge’s Palace (exterior only), a symbol of the glory and authority of Venice. Nearby, see the legendary Bridge of Sighs before tasting a Venetian spritz or a prosecco with the company of your tour leader.

As you relax in comfort and savor your drink, you’ll also have the chance to indulge in the renowned “cicchetti,” a Venetian take on tapas, offering a delightful light lunch option. Enjoy the afternoon at your own pace, strolling along Venice’s enchanting canals, before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay. Meals: B, L

DAY 6: VENICE > TUSCANY WINE REGION (MONTEPULCIANO) > ROME

After breakfast, depart for Tuscany, known for its romantic churches, castles, and wine. Proceed to Val di Chiana with a stop in Montepulciano, a medieval town known for its “Nobile” wine and the annual jazz festival. Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon independently exploring Montepulciano before continuing to Rome. Meals: B, L

DAY 7: ROME

After breakfast, depart for a morning tour of the Vatican Museums, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Sistine Chapel with our exclusive “Skip the Line” access! Then pass through an exclusive entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica, the biggest church in the world. After, enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Rome on your own or opt for an Ancient Rome tour. Meals: B

DAY 8: ROME TO ATHENS

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Athens (flight cost not included; please consult with us for the most current pricing) . Upon your arrival at Athens International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly team and provided with an assisted transfer to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and then enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace, exploring the vibrant city of Athens, the heart of Greece.

Accommodation at the Titania Hotel, Athens, or similar

DAY 9: EXPLORE ATHENS AND THE ACROPOLIS

After a delightful breakfast, meet with your English-speaking guide at the hotel for a captivating half-day tour of Athens, encompassing the iconic Acropolis and the acclaimed New Acropolis Museum. This comprehensive morning excursion offers a glimpse into both the ancient and modern facets of Athens. Following the tour, relish the remainder of the day at your own pace, immersing yourself further in the charms of the Greek capital or, if you wish, consider an optional afternoon excursion. Meals: B

DAY 10: ATHENS TO MYKONOS

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from the hotel to the port for embarkation on a ferry bound for the enchanting island of Mykonos. Upon arrival in Mykonos, a transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to savor at your own pace, basking in the beauty and charm of this idyllic island. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Manoulas Beach Resort, Mykonos, or similar

DAY 11: MYKONOS AT YOUR OWN PACE

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Mykonos, a Greek island celebrated for its sandy shores, cosmopolitan ambiance, iconic windmills, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Make the most of your time in Mykonos by exploring its key attractions, including Mykonos Town, the picturesque Kato Milli windmills, the enchanting district of Little Venice, the serene Agari Beach, and the sublime Church of Paraportiani.

We offer a myriad of optional tours and activities in Mykonos, tailored to your preferences. Simply let us know your desires, and we’ll handle all the arrangements for you. Meals: B

DAY 12: MYKONOS TO SANTORINI

At the designated time, you will be smoothly transferred from your hotel to the port, where you will embark on a scenic ferry journey bound for the captivating island of Santorini. Known for its postcard-worthy vistas, romantic sunsets, and unique volcanic-sand beaches, Santorini promises an unforgettable experience.

Upon arrival in Santorini, a transfer will be arranged to take you to your chosen accommodation. The remainder of the day is yours to relish at your own pace, reveling in the magic that Santorini has to offer. Meals: B

Accommodation at the El Greco Resort & Spa, Santorini, or similar

DAY 13: SANTORINI AT YOUR OWN PACE

Embrace the volcanic splendor of Santorini on your own terms. Lounge on the island’s distinctive beaches, indulge in snorkeling or a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear waters, and unwind in the rejuvenating embrace of volcanic hot springs, all while taking in the renowned sights of this enchanting destination.

We offer an array of optional tours and activities tailored to your preferences. Simply share your desires with us, and we’ll handle all the arrangements for you. Meals: B

DAY 14: SANTORINI TO ATHENS

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred from your hotel to the port, where you will embark on a ferry bound for the mainland of Athens. Upon your arrival in Athens, a transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Meals: B

DAY 15: ATHENS DEPARTURE

Today, you will meet your driver at the hotel for a seamless transfer to Athens Airport, marking the next step in your journey. Meals: B

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Adventure and Romance Tour of Italy & Greece

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, venice - romance beings in the canals of venice.

Touching down in Venice, not a moment of romance or adventure is wasted. Upon arrival, you will connect with a water taxi that will transfer you through these infamous canals, arriving eventually at your hotel. Perched on the edge of the Riva delgi Schiavoni – mere steps away from St Mark’s Square and the Doge Palace, the white Istria stone façade of the hotel shimmers in the lagoon below. The hotel has retained the original Biedermeier furnishings inside, which creates an elegant and relaxed atmosphere that feels almost untouched by time. As you enter your unique suite, you will catch your first soaring view of this effervescent city, building excitement for all that lies ahead.

What's Included:

Venice - Exploring a Rare and Authentic Venice

Devote today to leisurely exploring the canals, street cafes, boutiques and galleries that stipple this historic city. Explore the immense talent that radiates from Venice as you examine blown glass, fine Italian art and of course, the Venetian masks. Continue your wandering well into the evening, as stars emerge above. Seek out the perfect candlelit table in the Piazza San Marco and allow yourself to be swept away as a violinist plays to your table while you indulge in a classically Venetian feast. Completely this impossibly romantic evening with a moonlit gondola trip, and then retire – with a full heart – to your luxurious suite.

Venice - The Art and Antiquity of the Islands in the Venice Lagoon

Set out today on a guided half-day tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello – the three islands located in the Venice lagoon. Each island has its own distinct culture – from the glass blowers of Murano to the countless and ever-delicate lace shops of Burano. Gliding between islands in a motorboat, you’ll also come to appreciate the distinct and colorful architecture that characterizes these European fishing islands. The tour will then conclude on the ancient island of Torcello, where you can visit some of the oldest Venetian churches, including the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the remains of the circular baptistery in Santa Fosca. Today’s unique fusion of craft and culture will leave you even more enthralled with the elegance of Italy.

Lake Como - Travel by Train to the Opulent Shores of Lake Como

Traveling as Italians do, you will board a train traveling from Venice to Milan before connecting onwards to Como. There, you will board a ferry that will whisk you across the lake to the exclusive and utterly picturesque town of Bellagio. You will stay here for the following three nights. Your corner suite will look out through French doors onto the lake, but the hotel itself is located in the heart of the old town. You may choose to spend the remainder of the day exploring the wisteria-woven terrace or relax in the 18th-century lounge. With gourmet restaurants and endless Italian wine around you, allow yourself to drift away into the rhythm of Lake Como.

Lake Como - Weaving and Wandering Bellagio

Spend today entirely at your leisure as you wander the dramatic and romantic shoreline of Italy’s most coveted lake. Follow winding cobblestone roads to the pastel waterfront and explore the shops and 18th century hotels. Indulge in delicacies, pamper yourself at the spa or simply find a quiet corner to absorb the magic of it all. Today is yours to design.

Lake Como - Acquaint Yourself with the Romance of Lake Como

Consider spending a portion of today exploring beyond Bellagio, stepping out by ferry to wander through historic villas surrounded by azaleas and rhododendrons. Strolling the lakefront, be sure to seek out Villa Melzi – a neoclassical villa surrounded by immaculate gardens filled with exotic trees. Tremezzo too is worth a wander, if not only to see Villa Carlotta’s fine art collection and the surrounding fountain-filled terraced gardens. Allow yourself to be swept away by a Canova sculpture before returning to your private paradise at your hotel.

Portofino - Travel by Ferry and Train to Your Villa in Portofino

Following a final blissful breakfast in Bellagio, you will board a ferry and then travel by train through Milan, arriving in Genova for lunch. Here, in the Italian Riviera, you will stay in Portofino at an exclusive hotel nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the Maritime Alps in a serenely lush landscape. This warm and friendly hotel retains the feel of a classic Italian villa, with its colorful gardens and its intimate surroundings. Located only a few steps from a private beach, you will find yourself consumed with yet another variation of Italian adventure and romance.

Portofino - Explorations of Portofino’s Landscape, Culture and Indulgences

Since the mid-twentieth century, Portofino has been a darling of elite travelers. This once quaint fishing town has been transformed into an elegant fusion of luxury and local culture. Along with stunning ocean-views and dramatic cliffs, you will find a myriad of seafood-based culinary delights to satisfy your palate. Shopping, too, is a blissful way to pass the time, and watersports are prevalent for those who crave some adrenaline.

Portofino - Trave to Cinque Terre to Explore Seaside Terraced Villages

Boarding a sea taxi in the morning, you will travel from Portofino to Cinque Terre, a collection of five breathtaking seaside towns, built into the edge of the mountain. Fringed by ocean and olive trees, you will have the opportunity to explore the surroundings by train or by foot as you become acquainted with the unique and colorful features of Vernazza, Portovenere, Monterosso, Riomaggiore and Manarola.

Individuals will find their own connection with each of the unique towns. Highlights for many include the ancient Doria Castle in Vernazza, the sand beach in Monterosso, the harbor of Manarola, the whales and dolphins off Riomaggiore and the history of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the day sampling olives, sipping wine, savoring pesto and slipping in and out of the ocean as you soak in the indescribable beauty around you. Your visit here is sure to win a special place in your heart.

Florence - Disappear into the Heart of Tuscany

Leaving Cinque Terre by train, you will find yourself surrounded by rolling hills, fields of sunflowers and tiny stone villages that characterize Tuscany. A car will drive you from Florence to your villa – the former home of the Montepulciano family. Built in the late 16th century, the villa retains much of its historical charm. Wooden capitals, ancient doorposts and a fluid blend of the exterior and interior through soft colors and open air ensure that this villa fulfills all of your Tuscan fantasies. Consider strolling up the hill from the villa to the settlement of Montepulciano, where you can sample some of the country’s finest wines.

Florence - Feel the Inspirational Power of Val d’Orcia

The Val d’Orcia region is believed to be one of the great inspirations for Italian Renaissance artists. Landscapes here are easily mistaken for pieces of art – and the ancient towns of Sienna, San Gimignano, San Ouiro d’Orica and Montalcino are no less whimsical. Spend the day ascending and descending through hills and valleys as you trade sweeping views for intimate moments. Pause for espresso and gelato in Sienna’s Piazza del Campo before making a final ascent to Torre Del Mangio for an all-encompassing view of the terracotta walled city.

Florence - Explore the Heart of the Renaissance

Returning to Florence by road after one final breakfast of fresh and local Tuscan delicacies, you will spend today fully immersed in the majesty of Florence. This city has had a long-standing reputation for being one of the most artistically influential regions on the planet – and today, you will stand in the heart of it all.  Walk between delicate statues and countless fountains, as you find your way towards the Duomo and the Uffizi Corridor. Wander past Dante’s House and the Piazza Signoria, before arriving at the jewelry-filled Ponte Vecchio. Splurge on some gold – or take delight in gelato, before wandering to Piazzale Michelangelo with a bottle of wine for the city’s best sunset.

Day  13 - 15

Florence - Sink into the Rhythm of Florence

Your final days in Italy will be yours to design. Whether you wander the narrow passageways or immerse yourself in Renaissance art, you will have the option of a late afternoon wine tasting at Castello Banfi before dinner at this estate. In addition to tasting sensational wine, you will also want to sample some of the country’s most delicious olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Paired with estate wines, your five-course Tuscan menu will surely be the perfect farewell meal from Italy.

Santorini - Travel via Rome to Greece

This morning, following a final Italian breakfast, you will drive to Rome for your direct flight to Santorini, Greece. Landing on this coveted and quintessential island in the Aegean Sea, you will drive to your hotel where you will stay for the following six nights. This hotel – perhaps better described as a sanctuary – is located high on the cliffs. The flawless blend of Santorini blends with sophisticated luxury to create a romantic and timeless environment. Spend the afternoon alternating between swimming and sunbathing – and do not forget to return to your private terrace for some before-bed stargazing.

Santorini - Casual Explorations of Santorini

Bliss hardly begins to describe the all-consuming feeling you have when visiting Santorini. Whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches perched on cliffs over the sea are just as captivating as images might suggest. For the following six days, you will be the architect for your Greek adventures. We can suggest favorite activities and it will be left to you to combine them to create your perfect blend of relaxation, exploration and of course – indulgence.

You may want to start the day by familiarizing yourself with your surroundings. Strolling the shoreline is perhaps the best mode of exploration, since you can follow it to the neighboring towns of Fira and Oia. However, if you would rather stay close to home, you may be completely captivated by the tiny town of Imerovigli in which your hotel is based. With a few taverns and stores, you can easily slip into the local rhythm of the island before returning to your suite for a private starlit dinner on your terrace.

Santorini - The Beaches of the Aegean Cyclades

Terrestrial and aquatic beauty competes in Santorini for your undivided attention. Having explored villages and winding shorelines yesterday, dip down today towards the sea. Follow the curves of the shoreline as it alternates from rock to sand, encircling a giant lagoon. Take note of signs of volcanic activity that hide themselves in the pebbles, and bubble out of the hot springs. Eventually, wander up to the island’s capital, Fira, for stunning views of the lagoon below, and the town all around. Indulge in classic Greek cuisine as you sample local and regional delicacies.

Santorini - Dipping Below the Surface of the Aegean Sea

The longest single stretch of beach on Santorini is found where Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios Beaches combine. Sandy sea bottoms, with the occasional pebble or submerged rock, make this a sensational spot to suntan and swim. After securing a sunbed, wander the shoreline in search of the perfect tavern or café to seek refuge in during the midday sun. Or, for those that are aquatically inclined, consider seeking out a dive center to explore the magical underwater Mediterranean landscapes. Dive or snorkel amidst octopus, eels and volcanic topography before surfacing for dinner by the sea.

A Lighthouse and Sunset in Akrotiri Caldera Beach

Your time in Santorini may feel incomplete until you visit Akrotiri Caldera Beach. Famed for its lighthouse and cliff-side homes, this town is as delicate as she is powerful. Stroll up and down the staircases that weave between homes and hotels, taverns and cafes. Shopping and snacking as you go, you may eventually find yourself descending from town to the volcanic beach below. Quiet and contemplative, here you will find incredible views of the volcano, the village and the surrounding red cliffs.

Alternatively, consider walking to Aspri Paralia – the white pebbled beach – or Mesa Pigadia, where you can find a number of caves that jet out over impossibly clear water. No matter where you spend the day, return to the town for an evening cocktail at any one of the taverns that overlooks the ocean and the soon-to-be-spectacular sunset.

Santorini - A Final Blissful Day in Greece

As this amazing and relaxing tour of Italy and Greece draws to a close, you will have one final day of romance and adventure. One of many excellent ways to conclude your trip is to rent a car, permitting you to drive freely around the island. Consider heading to the northeast coast in search of solitude, eventually working your way to Koloumbo Beach after passing through Oia. Here, visitors are treated to tranquility as they escape the crowds and development. Allow yourself to disappear as you listen to the waves rhythmically roll up on shore, reflecting on this spectacular journey. Complete the experience with one final candlelit meal on your private terrace – complete with stargazing and local delicacies – before retiring, one final time.

Santorini - Return Home

This morning, after what is sure to have been a truly sensational three weeks, you will begin your journey home. Following one final Greek breakfast looking out over the edge of Santorini, you will return to the airport. Your flight will take you through Athens, ultimately connecting on to your final destination.

You may want to browse Greece travel reviews or the Italy travel agency section to read about traveler's customized experiences.

Trip Highlights

• Glide through the Venetian canals on a gondola, admiring the impossible romance of this ancient city
• Sail across Lake Como to the pinnacle of luxury, finding your rhythm in the lakeside town of Bellagio
• Find yourself between sea and olive tree as you wander between the five colorful and historic towns of Cinque Terre
• Lose yourself in the heart of the Renaissance, wandering and feasting your way across the rolling hills of Tuscany
• Find total relaxation in the Agean Sea, spending six blissful days between whitewashed buildings and delicately powerful views
• Indulge in every Italian and Grecian delicacy conceivable, as you move effortlessly between wine lands, olive fields, ocean and village 

Detailed Description

Blissful, passionate, and utterly comprehensive, this three-week itinerary shares with you every ounce of romance, opulence and adventure that Italy and Greece have to offer. From the canals of Venice through to the shores of Santorini, and every vineyard, restaurant, gallery and alleyway that lies between, you will not only visit – but also experience – the most coveted sights in the region. Traveling between luxury accommodation by rail, ferry and plane, there are few opportunities more decadent than this.

Beginning in Venice, Italy first captures your imagination with her Venetian masks, island-based glass blowers and delicate lace shops. After strolling the alleyways and drifting on gondolas, you then move onto the utterly exclusive shores of Lake Como and the Italian Riviera, where luxury and charm intersect beneath the mountains. From there, you travel through the ever-charming villages of Cinque Terre, moving on to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Vineyards, the Renaissance and a stream of Tuscan flavors will characterize your remaining days in Italy, before you eventually travel onwards to Greece by way of Rome.

Your adventure concludes with a full week on the whitewashed island of Santorini. Adored for her simple elegance and timeless character, a visit here requires little more than drifting between sunsets with ouzo in hand. Days are filled just as much as you desire – with many opting to slip into lagoons, wander beneath windmills and savor the fresh flavors emerging out of taverns. Innumerable beaches, each more unique and stunning than the next, are sure to entice you in the late afternoon. Here, you can wait for sunset to turn a whitewashed lighthouse a dusty shade of pink, before you  reviews  eventually return back to reality – just a little more enchanted. 

For more itinerary options, browse the Italy tours and Greece tours on Zicasso.

Starting Price

$7,497  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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5 of the Best Tours of Italy and Greece

Connected by multiple ferry routes, it’s easy to combine a trip to Italy with a short hop to mainland Greece or any number of its myriad idyllic islands.

(Photo: Indus Travels / Courtesy Bookmundi)

Sharing miles of sun-kissed coastline, a rich history, and an enticing culinary scene, Italy and Greece are two of Europe’s most popular tourism destinations. Thanks to their geographical proximity, there are a wide number of organised tours that offer the chance to see both countries during the same trip, If that appeals to you, check out our list below featuring 5 of the best Greece and Italy tours currently available.

Ancient Athens and Rome Tour (7 days)

There are few cities in the world that can match Athens and Rome for ancient history, and this 7-day tour invites travellers to see them both in one fascinating group trip. Starting in the Greek capital, you’ll travel through the Corinth Canal and the small town of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympics, before boarding a ferry and making your way across the Adriatic sea towards Italy. Here, your first stop will be the charming town of Loreto, and later you’ll move on to Rome, The Eternal City, home to iconic landmarks such as the Vatican and The Colosseum, where your tour comes to an end. From €1,140 per person.

Book at Bookmundi.com

Highlights of Greece and Rome Tour (10 days)

Taking in some of the most fascinating archaeological sites in Southern Europe, as well as idyllic islands with sun-kissed beaches, this 10-day tour offers an enticing combination of culture and leisurely relaxation. Starting in Athens, you and your group will visit some of the city’s famous landmarks, before moving on to  Kalambaka, situated at the foot of limestone rocks, crowned by the Monasteries of Meteora. Next you’ll sail across the Ionian Sea to Corfu, one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, where you’ll have the chance to kick back on one of its pristine stretches of sand. The tour comes to a close in the Italian capital of Rome, where you’ll get to explore the Vatican and the Colosseum. From €1,474 per person.

Get Social: Mega European Tour (49 days)

For those with the time and budget, this epic Euro odyssey offers the chance to visit an incredible 29 destinations across 16 countries over 49 days – including stops in Greece and Italy. Starting and ending in London, you’ll traverse the continent by coach, with extended looks around some of Europe’s finest cities, with plenty of fun and socialising packed into the mix. Highlights include trips to the old capitals of the west, to the re-emerging Balkans, to charming cities like Nice, Bordeaux, Orvieto, and Florence, to party islands like Mykonos off the Greek coast. The tour is available for 18 to 39-year-olds. From €5,929 per person.

Italy & Greece with Iconic Aegean Islands Cruise Tour (16 days)

(Photo: Cosmos / Courtesy Tourradar)

Starting in Rome and ending in Athens, this 16-day adventure takes in multiple destinations, including a number of idyllic Aegean Islands. You’ll discover the enduring legacies of Imperial Rome, before moving on to Florence, Verona, Pisa and Venice, where you’ll enjoy a boat ride to St. Mark’s Square. On the Greek leg of the tour, you’ll explore Athens, Mycenae, the fun-packed island of Mykonos, Heraklion, Crete, Santorini, and Patmos, before making a short trip over the border to Kusadasi in Turkey. You’ll then return to Athens to close out your magical experience. From €2,857 per person.

Book at Tourradar.com

Essential Europe: Italy, Croatia & Mediterranean Magic (21 days)

This 21-day, hostel-based trip takes you all the way across central and western Europe, from the Bavarian capital of Munich to the sun-drenched Greek island of Corfu. You’ll get swept up in the magic of the Alps in Innsbruck and at Lake Misurina, before heading to Rome, Florence, and Tuscany for a captivating taste of Italy. Next up Croatia, to visit picture-postcard cities and islands, including fairy tale-like Dubrovnik. Then it’s time for medieval fortresses, massive lakes, beach-time and the Blue Eye natural spring as you make your way from Montenegro to Albania and then Corfu, located off of Greece’s northwest coast in the Ionian Sea, to end your tour. From €2,532 per person.

Book at Gadventures.com

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Fit for the gods

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

Destination Must-See's

This is the most spectacular destination in the Mediterranean and holds the most prehistoric settlement in the region. The ancient town of Akrotiri was once destroyed and consequently preserved by a volcanic eruption around 1450 B.C. The excavation site of this city is known as the “Minoan Pompeii.” But perhaps the island’s greatest draws are its vineyards, whitewashed chapels, volcanic cliffs, and famous wines of Santorini.

Known as the “whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades islands” or the “Island of the Winds,” it is said that the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. It also gets its name from the grandson of Apollo - “Mykonos.” In the island’s capital town you will find the church, town hall, castle, the Archaeological, Folklore, and Maritime Museums, and a shopper’s paradise – Matoyianni Street.

Athens is the capital city of Greece and the historical capital of Europe. It is home to many celebrated ancient monuments including the imposing Acropolis, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Olympic Stadium, and Hadrian’s Gate – the symbolic entrance to the city. It also has the charming Plaka neighborhood which has been without interruption since antiquity.

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B.C. You can walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium, witness amazing sculptures at the museum, or even attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.

Destination Must-Do's

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

Delphi ruins:

Delphi was regarded as the center of the world and had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. The site includes two sanctuaries dedicated to Apollo and Athena, and other buildings that were mostly intended for sports. The earliest finds in Delphi date back to 4000 B.C. from the Korykeion Andron, a cave where the first rituals took place. The ruins are filled with an enormous amount of history and beauty.

Greek Olive Farm:

Olives and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean diet, and Greece is a major grower and producer of olive products. A visit to a Greek olive farm can provide a taste of Greek culture and serve as a window into everyday life in the country. Tours, tastings, meals, and cooking classes hosted at olive farms are all wonderful options on the table when venturing into Greece’s countryside.

Travel back in time with a visit to Athens’s old city – the Plaka. The hilly cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings housing small shops, sidewalk cafes and family-owned restaurants making this neighborhood Athens’ crowned jewel. The neighborhood comes alive at night. The alleyways fill with music and dancing and locals and visitors alike dine on their favorite traditional dishes.

Expert Advice

Getting around is easier than you would expect. Greeks can speak English enough to assist travelers, and street signs are in both Greek and English.

Much of your trip may focus on the ancient past yet I suggest you also take time to explore the vibrant traditions that still live in today’s Greek culture.

Greece is a welcoming destination year-round. Consider visiting October through May to beat the summer bustle, and with Greece’s 250+ days of sunshine in an average year, don’t forget your sunglasses.

Featured Tours to Greece

Exploring Greece and Its Islands featuring Classical Greece, Mykonos & Santorini

Classical Greece

Greece: In the Footsteps of Paul the Apostle featuring a 3-night Greek Islands & Turkey cruise

Greece Island Hopper featuring Athens, Mykonos and Santorini

The Balkans: From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece

Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos, & Crete

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Cheapest summer package holidays revealed – with little-known Greek island named best-value destination

Travel expert claims that there are ‘bargains to be found’ this year, article bookmarked.

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New research has revealed the most affordable package holiday destinations in Europe , with some surprising results ahead of what promises to be busy summer of travel in 2024.

Destinations including the Amalfi Coast, Malta and various Greek islands feature among the cheapest European destinations for a summer getaway.

A study from Which? analysed over 4,500 package holidays across 70 regions in 15 European countries – from providers including Jet2holidays and Tui – to find the best deals during the busy summer break, when school holidays mean anyone taking a trip is subject to some of the highest holiday prices.

Room-only, self-catered and bed and breakfast accommodation was analysed for seven nights over a period beginning around 3 August, with traditionally low-cost destinations like Bulgaria and Turkey absent from the list.

Instead, destinations across more expensive countries such as Greece and Italy were common. These places benefit from a large selection of accommodation options and readily available, often cheaper flights.

Top of the list was the Greek island of Kalymnos, with a week’s stay costing £847 per person on average (including flights and transfers). Visitors usually fly into the more well-known resort of Kos, before transferring to this island of secluded coves, emerald seas, rugged coastline, and charming towns.

Taking a close second place behind Kalymnos are Greek islands Thassos, at £862 per person, and Lefkada, at £935 per person.

The Costa Brava, a stretch of coastline north of Barcelona , took fourth place, with average prices coming in at £952 per person. The fifth-placed destination was Italy’s Venetian Riviera – specifically Lido di Jesolo – at £965, while the Amalfi Coast – famed for its glitz and accompanying high prices – came in at sixth, with an average cost of £977 per person.

Which? also analysed the cheapest destinations for all-inclusive holidays, with Tenerife coming up with the most affordable rates, at an average of £1,097 per person for seven nights. The Costa Blanca, Fuerteventura, Bourgas in Bulgaria and Dalaman, Turkey, rounded off the top five most affordable all-inclusive destinations, with average prices between £1,103 to £1,125 per person for seven nights.

Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel , said: “Travelling in the summer holidays is notoriously expensive, and demand is again high this year - but our latest price analysis shows that by being flexible on your destination, you can potentially save hundreds of pounds.

“From tiny, traditional Greek islands to the glitzy Amalfi coast, there are bargains to be found this summer.”

Which?’s top 10 cheapest package holiday destinations for 2024

• Kalymnos, Greece – £847 for seven nights
• Thassos, Greece – £862
• Lefkada, Greece – £935
• Costa Brava, Spain – £952
• Venetian Riviera, Italy – £965
• Amalfi Coast, Italy – £977
• Skopelos, Greece – £985
• Costa de la Luz, Spain – £994
• Campania, Italy – £998
• Malta – £1,006

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For Rubia Daniels, though, the dilapidated building in Sicily also served as an exciting chance to build the home of her dreams — and it cost her almost nothing to get started.

Daniels, 50, of Berkeley, Calif., is one of hundreds of people who've taken advantage of an offer that made news around the world: a home in Italy for 1 euro. 

In the late 2010s, towns around Italy started going viral for selling off crumbling properties for 1 euro, or roughly $1.05. The goal? To attract foreign investors to buy up the houses, rehab them and get dwindling population numbers back up.

Of course, there was a catch. In some towns, the 1-euro purchase was symbolic and just the start of more expenses down the line. In others, bids start at 1 euro but can go much higher.

There was also a big stipulation: Once buyers got their properties, they had to complete their renovations within a certain timeframe, usually three years. Costs could easily climb into the tens of thousands of euros. 

Each town handles its own 1-euro program, so we don't know exactly how many homes have been sold across Italy since the concept took off. But experts estimate the campaigns have brought in thousands of visitors who've bought cheap houses across the country.

How much does it really cost to buy and renovate a 1-euro home in Italy? And is taking on a major housing project across the world worth the money and the stress? CNBC Make It went to Sicily to talk to people who've gone through the process to find out.

Transforming an historic town, 1 euro at a time

The 1-euro campaign was first proposed in 2008 by TV personality Vittorio Sgarbi , then the mayor of Salemi in southern Sicily, where homes were destroyed in a 1968 earthquake.

The idea has since spread to dozens of municipalities across the country.

One of the most well-known towns with a 1-euro scheme is Mussomeli, a roughly 2-hour drive south of Sicily's capital city of Palermo. In Mussomeli, more than 100 homes have been sold for 1 euro, as well as roughly 200 so-called premium houses, which start around 5,000 euros and require fewer repairs.

Toti Nigrelli, Mussomeli's deputy mayor who oversees the program, credits the town's success to a user-friendly website that lays out exactly how interested homebuyers can schedule a tour and get started. Tens of thousands of requests came in "immediately" after the site launched in 2017, he says. The town made its first 1-euro sale to a Belgian visitor within two weeks.

Daniels is one of a handful of American homeowners there.

She first learned about the program from her husband, who'd read about it online. Daniels, an avid traveler who works in construction, was hooked. She booked her hotel and flight out to Sicily to see if the opportunity was too good to be true.

Days into her trip in spring 2019, Daniels called her husband. They were now the proud owners of not one or two but three separate 1-euro properties in Mussomeli, she told him.

Because she works in construction, Daniels says she didn't just see endless amounts of work in front of her. Instead, she visualized the final result of three dream projects: a vacation home, a restaurant and a wellness center.

Once Daniels landed on her properties, she got a rundown of what the dream would actually cost. The houses were sold for 1 euro each but also incurred a 500-euro realtors fee and 2,800-euro deed. That added up to a total of 3,301 euros, or roughly $3,500, for each building. 

She felt up to the challenge. Daniels went home to pack her tools and returned that summer with her husband, brother-in-law and five suitcases full of renovation supplies.

So far, she's focused on fixing up her vacation home and initially estimated renovations to cost $20,000. Those renovation plans include a new kitchen, marble finishes, restored stone walls and a fireplace in the bathroom. Years later, she's spent $35,000 and hopes to stay under $40,000. It's a lot of work, but the process still feels as exciting as it did on day one, she says.

Daniels is building the house of her dreams, "which I wouldn't be able to do back in California because the cost would be much higher," she says. Daniels plans to visit her Mussomeli home for vacations and split her time between California and Sicily in retirement. 

Daniels is such a fan of the 1-euro initiative that she's encouraged friends and family to take the leap. On one recent visit to Mussomeli, Daniels brought along two fellow Californians, Alfredo Ramirez and his mother, Elena, to tour the houses.

Alfredo, 35, was struck by the price difference: The amount of space he could get for 16,000 euros in Mussomeli might run him over $330,000 in Petaluma, Calif., where he lives and works in customer service.

'4 million moments of frustration,' but no regrets

About an hour's drive from Mussomeli is the town of Sambuca di Sicilia. In 2019, it went viral for auctioning off old homes with bids starting at 1 euro. 

There, Meredith Tabbone, 44, of Chicago, bought and renovated a 1-euro house of her own.

At the time, Tabbone was looking into getting dual citizenship in Italy, where part of her family was from before they immigrated to the U.S.

A friend told her about the Sicilian home project. "I thought it was too good to be true," Tabbone says, "but I checked when I saw the name Sambuca and took a look, and it was the same village that my great-grandfather came from in 1902 to the United States."

On one of the final days of the auction, Tabbone placed her bid of 5,555 euros for a property, sight unseen.

"A lot of people warned me that it could be a scam [and that] I could end up losing a lot of money," she recalls. In May, she got the email that her bid won. She paid what she owed, plus some taxes and fees, bringing the home sale up to 5,900 euros, or roughly $6,200.

From the moment that I sent in the bid and checked my email every day and found out that I won, all the way through this process, there have been 4 million moments of frustration, exhaustion, contemplation of how to move forward. Meredith Tabbone 1-euro homeowner from Chicago

Tabbone flew to see her new home for the first time in June 2019. She then bought the building next door through a private sale with the owner for 22,000 euros, or just over $23,000. 

The additional purchase meant more space to build her dream vacation home. It also meant much higher renovation costs. What started as a 40,000-euro budget to renovate 620 square feet grew to 140,000 euros to cover 2,700 square feet.

Over the next four years, Tabbone visited Sambuca for weeks at a time to oversee a local crew for the extensive overhaul: They knocked down walls to join the properties; leveled the flooring across 18 small rooms; reinforced the structure against earthquakes; added two large terraces; and opened up the kitchen, dining and living rooms. 

All in, she spent about 425,000 euros on renovations, or roughly $446,000.

"From the moment that I sent in the bid and checked my email every day and found out that I won, all the way through this process, there have been 4 million moments of frustration, exhaustion, contemplation of how to move forward," Tabbone says.

That being said, "I never felt like this wasn't the right place for me to be, and that this wasn't the right project for me to work on or community to live in," she says. "I've learned so much about my family, which has been really special for me because my father passed away when I was a senior in high school."

When unexpected challenges derail the plan

Not all renovation plans work out. That was the case for Danny McCubbin, 59, who's originally from Australia and was living in London when he heard about Mussomeli's 1-euro program.

In spring 2019, he made his first visit and toured 28 houses before buying his property.

His vision was different from most: McCubbin wasn't looking for a home to live in, but rather a space to launch a food-rescue charity, building upon his 17 years working on food-based campaigns for Jamie Oliver in London. He was inspired by his observation that lots of elderly people and families were not getting fresh food in Mussomeli.

The pandemic delayed his plans to rehab a 1-euro house for the project. The home experienced extensive water damage while he was stuck in London for 10 months. By the time he returned, his 15,000-euro quote for renovations doubled.

He decided to sell his house back to the real estate agency for 1 euro and found a different space to rent in the town square. His charity, The Good Kitchen, now operates from the space next door, where rent and utilities run 400 euros a month.

McCubbin says he doesn't regret a thing: He's grateful the scheme helped him establish his Italian residency and brought him to Mussomeli. 

Locals are glad he stayed, too: Each week, volunteers at The Good Kitchen work to rescue surplus food from nearby markets and deliver grocery packages to local families in need. They also host a weekly lunch for community members.

"My dream is that one day we will be able to provide jobs, especially for young people in the town," he says.

A flood of foreign capital, jobs, tourism and newcomers

Mussomeli's 1-euro campaign has already had a positive impact by bringing more foreign investment, tourism and jobs, says Nigrelli, the town's deputy mayor.

Mussomeli had roughly 16,000 residents in the 1950s, he explains, but populations declined through the '80s as young people left for university and better career opportunities in northern Italy. Today, roughly 9,900 people remain in town. 

Like many small towns in Sicily, Mussomeli doesn't have a major university. As a result, many jobs that stay in town are concentrated in construction, agriculture and the trades. The compounding effect has left the region with a large youth unemployment problem: Roughly 32% of young Sicilians from age 15 to 29 are unemployed — one of the highest rates in Italy.

Even when young people return to Mussomeli, they can find the small town limiting. Federica Prezioso, 37, moved away to study in Palermo, Milan and London. She returned to work as a teacher and raise children, but says it's hard to see her friends move away over time.

She's in favor of schemes like the 1-euro home program. Large-scale renovations mean more jobs for carpenters, plumbers, electricians and other construction workers. The project even brought a wave of Argentinian doctors who moved there and resolved a shortage of health-care workers.

Even if prospective homebuyers or curious tourists don't settle on a property to purchase, the increase in foot traffic has led to a boost for local restaurants, hotels and retail stores. Mussomeli's tourism sector increased by 3,000% within the first year of launching the 1-euro home program, according to Nigrelli.

In the last seven years, Mussomeli has sold off nearly all of its 1-euro homes, another marker of success. Roughly a dozen houses are left, says Natalie Milazzo, a local real estate agent. 

Meanwhile, there are over 100 premium houses currently on the market, Milazzo says. Many of them are being sold by families who've moved away or inherited multiple properties and see an influx of interested foreigners as an opportunity to make a profit.

With more foreign home investors and visitors come higher real estate costs. As the demand for previously worthless homes has increased, Nigrelli says, the price of homes for sale and for rent have risen by up to 100%.

This could become a problem for incoming homebuyers purchasing old properties and renting places to stay during renovations. On the other hand, Nigrelli estimates roughly 90% of Mussomeli residents already own their homes, so rising real estate prices have a smaller immediate impact on locals.

Looking ahead: 'The respect of the old town is the most important thing'

In 2021, a group of young professionals in Cammarata, Sicily, started a nonprofit called StreetTo, which works with the city to advertise 1-euro and cheap houses to foreigners. So far, the program has attracted a handful of young people and couples who move to the town to work remotely, says volunteer Martina Giracello, 31.

Houses that aren't being sold for 1 euro range between 5,000 to 25,000 euros, or $5,250 to $26,250. StreetTo volunteers say they list houses at a sustainable pace to avoid gentrification and out-of-control housing prices.

"The respect of the old town is the most important thing," Giracello says.

Gianluca Militello, 38, says volunteering with StreetTo is one of the main ways young people like him can improve their futures in Cammarata: "We want to be surrounded by people who can bring something to our own lives."

"It's also personal," he adds.

Back in Mussomeli, Nigrelli says local officials across Sicily have asked him for guidance to bring 1-euro programs to their town. One recent partnership: Getting a campaign up and running in Caltanissetta , an hour's drive east.

Daniels and Tabbone, the American homebuyers in Mussomeli and Sambuca, say their 1-euro journeys have been worth it.

Their small Sicilian towns offer a low cost of living. A nice meal out might be 10 euros or less, while a round-trip flight within Europe or to Africa might run you just 45 euros, Tabbone says.

Another big draw: the Sicilian approach to leisure, including a daily lunch and nap break from noon to 4 p.m. when most of the town shuts down.

Tabbone, who runs her own business as a financial advisor, says the slower pace of life abroad makes her want to "have the focus of my life be about just personal fulfillment in general," rather than work.

A mentality that prioritizes leisure and socializing makes for a lower-stress life, Daniels says. "People here, they consume a lot of alcohol, nicotine, carbs, and they live longer than most places," she points out. "I believe it's because the level of stress is so low and [the fact that] the community is so active that that gives them longevity."

Daniels feels strongly that historic renovation programs are beneficial in part because they're sustainable. Around the world, "we have destroyed so much of the environment building things instead of using what exists," she says.

Tabbone is glad to have the chance to connect with her family history and considers the Sambuca project a "huge success" for bringing attention to the village. 

She's wary of fielding questions from foreigners like herself who want to buy an old home and turn it into an investment property. "I'm very grateful that I do not know anybody doing that, because I do not want this to be a village of Airbnbs," she says.

Tabbone says she will never sell her Sambuca home despite getting many offers. "I have a cousin, [and] I've already told her she can use the house if I pass away before her. After that, it's going to be donated to the village."

"A lot of people refer to this as a revival of this town," Tabbone adds. "I like to think of it more as a renaissance."

Conversions from euros to USD were done using the OANDA conversion rate of 1 euro to 1.05 USD on Oct 18, 2023. All amounts are rounded to the nearest dollar.

Want to land your dream job in 2024?  Take  CNBC's new online course How to Ace Your Job Interview  to learn what hiring managers are really looking for, body language techniques, what to say and not to say, and the best way to talk about pay.

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