Best of Italy and Greece

ITINERARY

• DAY 1
  Welcome to Venice, Italy

  Italy and Greece trip starts in Venice, Italy.
  
  Upon arrival at the airport, a private English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you at the arrival, holding a sign with your name on it. They will escort you to your private water taxi and accompany you to your hotel for check-in. This personalized service lets you start your Venice adventure easily and comfortably.

  What's included?

  • Accommodation
  • Transfer
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 2
  Canals in Venice, Italy

  Venice - City Tour in Venice

  After breakfast, meet your guide to starting a Venice city tour, considered one of the most beautiful in the whole world. Sited on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges, it is in the marshy Venetian Lagoon, which stretches along the shoreline between the Po and the Piave Rivers. Venice is renowned for the beauty of its setting, its spectacular architecture, and its artworks. The city, in its entirety, is listed as a World Heritage Site, along with its lagoon. You will get the chance to see: St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, the Doges Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs that connects the Palace to the prisons. Walking up and down the romantic canals crossed by narrow bridges in the afternoon is relaxing.
  
  Optional - As dusk falls in Venice, relax and enjoy the views during a traditional Venetian gondola ride. Your English-speaking escort will pick you up from your hotel and walk you to your private gondola. After boarding, your gondolier will navigate Venice's narrow canals and stone bridges, providing a serene and intimate experience. As you glide along the Venetian Grand Canal, marvel at the landmarks and sites that have made Venice a global tourist hub, such as the Rialto Bridge and the stunning Ca' d'Oro mansion with its arched Gothic exterior. This quintessential Venetian experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 3
  Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy

  Florence - Arrive in the city of art

  Morning at your disposal or optional excursion at the small Islands in the Venetian Lagoon: Burano and Murano, located north of the historic center of Venice. Murano and Burano offer beautiful handicrafts that have made them famous worldwide: the first is characterized by centuries-old glass manufacturing, the second for its sophisticated lace, not to mention the original colorful buildings. Visiting Murano and Burano will give you the most authentic and unusual side of Venice. In the afternoon, a private transfer to the train station, where you will board a first-class train to Florence.
  
  Arrive in Florence, and your driver will pick you up from the train station with a private transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is leisure to enjoy this beautiful city on your own.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Train
• DAY 4
  The Dome Cathedral in Florence, Italy

  Florence - A full-day excursion

  After breakfast, a full-day excursion to Florence, the wonderful heart of the Renaissance and the capital city of the Italian Region of Tuscany. Centre of medieval European trade and finance and one of the wealthiest cities of the time, Florence is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance and called the Athens of the Middle Ages. A turbulent political history includes periods of ruling by the powerful Medici family and numerous religious and republican revolutions. From 1865 to 1871, the city was also the capital of the recently established Kingdom of Italy. The historic center attracts millions of tourists each year, and Florence is ranked as one of the most visited cities in the world.
  
  Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982, the city contains numerous museums and art galleries, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace. Still, it exerts an influence on art, culture, and politics. Florence is also an important city in Italian fashion, being ranked within the top fifty fashion capitals of the world. You have a guided tour of the town and get the chance, among others, to see the “David” sculpture by Michelangelo. In the afternoon, free time to visit this magnificent city individually.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 5
  Piazza del Campo, Siena, Italy

  Rome - Visit Tuscany Region and arrive to city of Great Empire

  Hotel breakfast in the hotel and leave for Siena, driving through the beautiful region of the Chianti wine. The tradition of cultivating vines in Chianti goes back a long time in history, back to the Etruscans that inhabited the area before the Roman empire. In 1984, Chianti obtained the denomination D.O.C.G. (Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination of Origin), the highest type of recognition for quality Italian wines. Stop for wine tasting.
  Travel to Siena for a guided visit to Siena, one of Italy's most beautiful medieval towns. Its historic center has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. It is one of the nation’s most visited tourist attractions, and it's famous for its cuisine, art, museums, medieval cityscape, and the Palio, a horse race in traditional costumes. Meet the guide for the city tour: the City Hall, Piazza del Campo, and the Cathedral. Drive to the capital city of Italy: Rome.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 6
  Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome, Italy

  Rome - Full-day tour in Italy's capital

  Meet with your English-speaking guide in the morning for a full-day tour of Rome, Italy's capital, and the Lazio Region. Rome’s history spans more than 2500 years since its legendary founding in 753 BC, and it is referred to as “The Eternal City.” In the ancient world, it was successively the capital city of the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic, and the Roman Empire. It is regarded as one of the birthplaces of Western civilization.
  
  You will see the Fori Imperiali, the Colosseum, Constantine’s Arch, and all the other most astonishing sights of Ancient Rome. Time for a stroll in Piazza di Spagna, with world-famous Trinità dei Monti steps, take a picture by the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and finally reach the Pantheon.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 7
  Sistine Chapel, Vatican, Italy

  Rome - Visit to the Vatican Museums

  The morning visit to the Vatican Museums originated as a group of sculptures collected by Pope Julius II (1503-1513) and placed in the “Cortile Ottagono” within the museum complex today. Continue your sightseeing with the visit to the Sistine Chapel, one of the greatest art treasures of all time, one of the most celebrated masterpieces in the world, with amazing, frescoed ceilings by Michelangelo. It’s the last stop on the Vatican Museum tour and is the most ardently awaited moment for millions of tourists worldwide.
  In the afternoon time for free or option, visit the three most important cathedrals in Rome: San Giovanni in Laterano, Santa Maria Maggiore, and San Paolo Fuori le Mura.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 8
  Athens, Greece

  Welcome to Athens, Greece!

  You leave Rome to depart to Athens on Italy and Greece trip.
  Private transfer to the airport for departure to Athens, Greece.
  
  Arrive in Athens and let our driver take you to your hotel to check in and prepare for your first day in Greece.
  
  In the late afternoon, begin your journey by strolling around Athens’ streets and discover some of its highlights with your loved one. As the sun sets and the city lights up at night, enjoy a welcome dinner at a Greek tavern surrounded by friendly locals - a perfect introduction to Greece!
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 9
  Pantheon, Athens, Greece

  Athens - City Tour

  See the city's best and most beloved sites in just seven hours! Follow your knowledgeable and friendly guide, who will show you around the majestic Acropolis, the impressive Acropolis Museum, the two most famous squares, Syntagma and Monastiraki, and many more, by giving you a greater understanding of ancient and modern Greece.
  
  Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city steeped in history, culture, and myth. From the time of its founding in the 5th century BC, Athens has played a crucial role in shaping the Western world's intellectual, cultural, and political foundations. It is known as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, literature, and drama and has produced some of the greatest thinkers and leaders in history. In this tour, you will explore Athens's rich history, culture, and attractions and understand why it remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture.
  
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 10
  Mykonos, Greece

  Mykonos - Queen of the Cyclades

  It's time to start discovering the Greek island way of life! Get on a ferry heading to the 'Queen of the Cyclades', Mykonos! Pack your bags and get transferred to the port of Piraeus in a private car. Once you reach the island, transfer to your accommodation, and relax for the day.
  
  Mykonos is a picturesque island located in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades group of islands in Greece. Known for its white-washed buildings, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos has become one of Greece's most popular tourist destinations.
  
  Mykonos has a rich and colorful history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, the island was named after Mykonos, the son of Apollo and a local princess. In ancient times, Mykonos was an important center of maritime trade, and it played a crucial role in the trade network between Greece, Egypt, and Asia Minor.
  
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Transfer
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 11
  Mykonos Island, Greece

  Mykonos - A private half day tour

  Catch All Mykonos' highlights with a private half-day tour showing you around the island's best attractions and hidden spots! Along with your local guide, begin your tour by walking through the old town's labyrinth, the narrow and cobbled alleys. See the port, the whitewashed churches, and the famous windmills.
  
  Move on to the second main village of Mykonos, Ano Mera, where you have some free time to wander around. Your next stop is Kalafatis beach for some relaxation, and we've saved the best for last: an elevated spot to capture the outstanding view of the town, the Aegean Sea, and the neighboring islands!

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 12
  Santorini Island, Greece

  Santorini Island - One of the best romantic islands worldwide

  Transfer with a hydrofoil boat in two hours to Santorini. Your driver will deliver you privately to the hotel in Santorini. Free day at leisure in Santorini.
  
  The island's beauty has been waxed lyrical over the years, fully earning the epithet "kalliste" (the most beautiful). Along with "Strogili," one of the former names lent to the island over its troubled history.
  
  Its history is one of the battles and conquers of a tragic eruption and a blossoming renaissance – events that haven't altered Santorini's charm but that undoubtedly scarred it. Together with the inhabited Therania and five other smaller islands, Thera (Santorini's Greek name) belongs to the namesake archipelago, the vestige of a volcanic caldera. Places of unspoiled nature and postcard-like views, the islands are reachable by boat and bear the original appeal of the old-fashioned Santorini. The main island is split into picturesque villages masterly painted in dazzling blue and white hues, outlining the holiday resort's multi-faceted personality and its extraordinary landscapes.
  
  The scent of wine grapes and vineyards stretching lazily down Santorini's unrefined hills; the unique taste of tomatoes grown solely on volcanic soil and the soaring temperature of the island; the subtle sand or the smoothness of white pebbles and turquoise waters of some of Europe's most suggestive beaches; the upbeat sound of the buzzing nightlife; the spectacle of the sun setting behind the village of Oia and the caldera to finally plunge into the skyline. Santorini gratifies all five senses, treating the traveler to enchanting views and thousands of colors.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Transfer
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 13
  Santorini, Greece

  Santorini - the Caldera Sunset Cruise

  In the morning, explore Santorini at your own pace. Without mentioning dazzling panoramas, and the mesmerizing sea of vibrant villages, Santorini's culinary tradition would be something worth experiencing. Borrowing a pronounced Mediterranean diet from the mainland, Santorini generously uses vegetables, quality olive oil, meat, and fresh seafood, creating its cuisine by adding products cultivated solely on its fertile soil.
  
  Santorini is, in all aspects, a work of art, and its souvenirs and local produce doubtlessly reflect the island's beautiful facets. Try the island's peculiar white eggplants with mozzarella, or sample the unique "Tomatokeftedes," tomato fritters made of Santorini's produce, with a glass of Vinsanto. Oia and Fira is the island's major shopping destination, with unrivaled charm, where traditional shops line up neatly down narrow streets.
  
  In Santorini, a visit to one of the local art galleries is a must: evocative handicrafts, folk art, and jewelry can be bought at accessible prices, guaranteeing a souvenir that mirrors the authenticity of the villages. Another worthy shopping experience is all about local produce. The diversity of products makes it hard to choose from the numerous delicacies grown on volcanic soil. The Greek version of split peas, Fava, is particularly unique in Santorini and makes a down-to-earth yet scrumptious puree. The island's grapes make a heavenly wine exported worldwide and can buy in any local winery. Last comes Santorini's trademark tomato, the locals' pride and a must-try for food enthusiasts - wonderfully flavorful and juicy.
  
  In the afternoon, you admire the Caldera Sunset Cruise. Starting from the port of Vlychada port, the cruise passes by Red and White Beach, with a stop at Black Mountain. It will then pass by the Lighthouse South of the Caldera and the Hot Springs at the Volcano. The next stop is Thirassia, where lunch will be served. You will then sail towards the port of Ammoudi for a spectacular view of Oia. The return route will offer beautiful Fira views and sunset views before entering the port of Vlychada.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 14
  Church, Santorini, Greece

  Santorini - Experience Greek food with expert

  Our goal is to showcase the flavors and ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine from a local standpoint in a fun & informative manner to let you experience Greek food as the locals do!
  
  Start your day with a traditional Greek coffee. Our fun local food expert will meet you at a starting point in Firostefani and lead you through the traditional towns of Firostefani and Fira, following a pebbled downhill footpath right on the edge of the world-famous Santorini caldera. Follow your guide through Fira's historical alleyways and hidden paths with several stops for samplings of local treats, including an olive oil tasting and a quick bite of souvlaki - the ultimate Greek street food.
  
  During the tour, you can taste Santorini & Greek food, street food, local beer samples, wine, raki, Cycladic cheeses & cold cuts, olive oil tasting, delicacies from the bakery, and traditional sweets. Of course, lunch at a caldera view restaurant and some local wine is a must!
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 15

  Goodbye to Greece!

  Your driver will deliver you to Santorini Airport for a short flight to Athens!
  
  Today, your beautiful tour of Italy and Greece ends in Santorini. I hope to see you again on one of our combination itineraries.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Transfer