Rome, Venice, Athens, and Classical Tour 15 days

Welcome to the Eternal City! Upon arrival in Rome, a representative will greet you warmly at the airport and assist you with your included transfer to the hotel, where we will check in and get comfortably settled to begin this unforgettable adventure.

During the day, you will have at your disposal a daily ticket for the Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus, perfect for discovering the treasures of Rome at your own pace. On board the panoramic buses, you can admire the most iconic landmarks from a unique and relaxing perspective. With eight strategic stops and audio commentary in 12 languages, you can hop on and off as many times as you wish while exploring squares, fountains, and ruins that tell centuries of history.

The evening is free for you to enjoy Rome on your own: perhaps a walk through Trastevere or dinner with a view of the Colosseum. Return to the hotel is on your own, and overnight stay is included for your rest.

Greca Tip: Use your tourist bus ticket to stop at Piazza Navona at sunset—its atmosphere and Baroque architecture take on a special magic as night falls.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our journey to the heart of Tuscany. At 7:15 a.m., we will depart by coach towards Assisi, a medieval gem nestled among rolling hills.

Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore this spiritual walled city, famous for being the birthplace of Saint Francis. We recommend visiting the Basilica of Saint Francis, a sanctuary adorned with invaluable frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, beautifully depicting the life of the saint. Before continuing our journey, we will enjoy an included lunch in Assisi.

After lunch, we will continue along the highway that crosses Italy from north to south. Our next stop will be Siena, a city that seems frozen in time, protected by impressive walls. We will stroll through its charming streets until reaching Piazza del Campo, the heart of Sienese life and the stage of the famous “Palio delle Contrade.”

Finally, we will continue to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. We will arrive in the afternoon to check in at the hotel, enjoy dinner on our own, and rest.

Greca Tip: In Siena, don’t miss trying “panforte,” a traditional sweet made with spices and dried fruits that dates back to the Middle Ages.

Morning rises over Florence like a canvas bathed in the golden light of the Renaissance. After a delightful breakfast, you’ll step into a city where Italian genius reveals itself in every stone.

The historic center welcomes you with a symphony of white, green, and pink marble. The majestic Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, crowned by Brunelleschi’s awe-inspiring dome, stands as a symbol of Florence’s wealth and power in the 13th and 14th centuries. Beside it, the elegant Campanile designed by Giotto and the Baptistery, famous for its bronze doors—especially the so-called Gates of Paradise, as named by Michelangelo—complete this breathtaking ensemble.

In Piazza della Signoria, the city’s political heart still beats beneath the austere facade of the Palazzo Vecchio, while the Church of Santa Croce opens onto one of Florence’s oldest and most atmospheric squares. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious Tuscan lunch in a traditional restaurant.

The afternoon is free. If you wish, you may join an optional excursion to Pisa, where the iconic Leaning Tower and the Field of Miracles whisper stories of a glorious maritime republic.

Greca Tip: Inside Santa Croce, look for the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. To walk among them is to walk in the company of giants.

After a delightful breakfast in Florence, the morning invites you to explore Bologna, a city where medieval charm meets the soul of Italian cuisine.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by its iconic porticoes—stretching over 40 kilometers—offering shade and beauty as you wander. Enjoy free time to stroll from Piazza Malpighi to the heart of the city at Piazza del Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore, where history lives in every stone. Here stands the majestic Basilica of San Petronio, the largest Gothic brick church in the world, its unfinished façade whispering stories of ambition and faith.

But Bologna isn’t just seen—it’s tasted. As you walk its medieval alleys, you'll discover a world of flavor in its bustling street food scene. With a specially selected light lunch, you’ll savor the authentic dishes that define Bologna’s culinary fame, in a city often hailed as Italy’s gastronomic capital.

In the afternoon, your journey continues to Venice (Mestre), where a warm welcome awaits you at your hotel for your overnight stay and a well-earned rest.

Greca Tip: While exploring Bologna, don’t forget to look up—its ancient towers still rise above the rooftops, silent sentinels of a noble and flavorful past.

The day begins with the promise of a deep dive into the magic and history of Venice. After a comforting breakfast, you will be taken to the beating heart of the city: St. Mark’s Square, where time seems to pause amid grandeur and charm.

During this morning walking tour, the imposing Doge’s Palace will unfold before you, a symbol of Venetian glory and the seat of the dukes, government, and judiciary. You will almost hear whispers of intrigue and decisions as we cross together the famous Bridge of Sighs, the narrow passage linking the palace to the prisons, where Casanova was famously imprisoned—caught not only behind bars but between history and legend.

To complete this experience, your guide will lead you to an authentic spot where you will enjoy a classic Venetian aperitif: cicchetti, small culinary gems similar to tapas, paired with a refreshing spritz or delicate prosecco—a light lunch that will delight your senses.

The afternoon is yours to explore Venice at your own pace, soaking in its unique atmosphere. Later, return to your hotel to rest, carrying the echoes of an unforgettable day in your heart.

Tip Greca: To truly experience Venice, try wandering its quieter alleys at dusk; there you will find its most authentic and peaceful soul.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast in Venice, we bid farewell to its canals and head toward the gentle landscapes of Tuscany, a region that captivates with its elegance, artistic heritage, and renowned wines.

We will travel to the enchanting Val di Chiana, where we’ll stop in the picturesque town of Montepulciano, a medieval gem perched atop a hill, famous for its Vino Nobile, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines. You’ll have time to stroll through its cobbled streets, admire panoramic views, and, if you wish, visit one of its traditional wineries.

At midday, we’ll enjoy an exquisite lunch in a typical Tuscan restaurant, where the region’s flavors will be enhanced by a carefully selected glass of local wine, offering you an authentic gastronomic experience. After lunch, we’ll have a bit of free time to further enjoy this charming corner of Tuscany.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Rome, where we’ll stay for the final stage of our journey through Italy.

Greca Tip: If you're looking for a special souvenir, Montepulciano has small artisan shops offering handmade leather and ceramic goods — perfect for taking a piece of Tuscany home with you.

There are places that are not just visited—they are felt. This morning, as you cross the threshold of the Vatican, you're not merely entering a museum; you’re stepping into the very heart of art and faith that have shaped the soul of Europe for centuries.

After a refreshing hotel breakfast, your journey begins with a touch of privilege. Thanks to our exclusive skip-the-line access, you’ll bypass the crowds and, guided by a knowledgeable Greca expert, immerse yourself in the legendary Vatican Museums. Time whispers from every corner: Flemish tapestries seem to ripple with light, and Raphael’s frescoes breathe the very spirit of the Renaissance. In the Gallery of Geographical Maps, marvel at how 16th-century cartographers envisioned the world… long before we truly discovered it.

By midday, you will stand beneath the vaulted sky of the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo’s Last Judgment is not just a painting—it’s a soul-stirring encounter. Later, in the vastness of St. Peter’s Square, admire the grand basilica from the outside, sentinel of centuries of devotion.

The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Perhaps an espresso by the Tiber will offer the perfect close to an unforgettable day.

Greca Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and cover your shoulders—this is a journey through eternity.

After breakfast, and at the time indicated, we will transfer you to Rome International Airport for your flight to Athens.

Upon your arrival in the mythical city of Athens, you will be greeted with a seamless transfer to your hotel in one of our vehicles, where your professional and friendly English-speaking driver will ensure your comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

Later in the afternoon, at an agreed time, our representative will meet you at the hotel to provide all the essential details of your trip. They will also offer a captivating presentation of the city, sharing insights into its everyday way of life. This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions and have any doubts dispelled, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the rest of your trip.

You will have the remainder of the day free to relax and discover Athens at your own pace, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this remarkable city.

Greca Tip: You can reach the top of Mount Lycabettus by a funicular or on foot and you will enjoy an incredible panoramic view of Athens.

Today, we'll head to the Corinth Canal, where you'll make a brief stop to take photos and admire this famous waterway that connects the Aegean Sea and the Gulf of Corinth. This impressive engineering marvel eliminates the need for ships to travel over 400 kilometers around the Peloponnese peninsula to reach the Ionian Sea.

Continuing on our journey, we'll reach the Theater of Epidaurus, renowned worldwide for its exceptional acoustics and still used today for various performances, particularly during the summer. We'll also have time to explore the Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus, which pays homage to the origins of modern medicine.

Next, we'll travel to the city of Mycenae, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the prehistoric Acropolis, the iconic Lions Gate, and the tomb of Agamemnon.

In the afternoon, we'll make our way across the central Peloponnese region.

By early evening, we'll arrive in Olympia, where you'll check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest.

Greca Tip: Don't miss the chance to wander through the charming Old Town of Nafplio. Its narrow cobblestone streets are adorned with Bougainvillea trees, creating a picturesque setting. Consider picking up komboloyia, a circular chain with amber beads, as a lovely gift for yourself or your friends.

In the morning, you will visit the site of the ancient Olympic stadium, where the first games were held around 776 BC.

The importance of these games was widely accepted, given the extensive participation of the Greek cities, which suspended hostilities throughout the celebrations. The Olympiad was recognized as the only chronological event in Greece and represented four years between two consecutive events.

Olympia was also the most important sanctuary of Ancient Greece, a place to worship Zeus, the first among the gods. The gigantic gold and ivory sculpture crafted by Phidias was considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

After we visit the Museum of Olympia, you will continue your journey across the suspension of the Rion-Antirion Bridge, a modern engineering wonder, until you reach your destination.

Upon your arrival at Delphi, you will have dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Greca Tip: In the evening you can go in search of the traditional character of nearby Arachova and enjoy a drink in a stylish café or a local kafeneio (coffee shop).

Start your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a visit to Delphi, an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the ancient world.

Here, the famous Oracle of Delphi advised kings and pilgrims. Don't miss the chance to explore the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to the remarkable "Bronze Charioteer," a masterpiece of Greek sculpture.

Conclude your enriching Delphi tour by descending Mount Parnassus and making your way to the Thessaly plains, where the captivating city of Kalambaka awaits.

Upon reaching Kalambaka, indulge in a satisfying dinner and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Greca Tip: Use your free time to visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia at Delphi.

Early in the morning, you will visit Meteora, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

In this mysterious landscape, the natural beauty is combined with the compelling presence of the eternal monasteries suspended or "Meteora" on top of the huge rocks. Currently, there are only six in use, five for the male and one for the female monastic community.

Dress code to the Monasteries: Sleeveless clothing and shorts above the knee are not allowed. Skirts, shawls, and trousers are available at the entrance of the Monasteries in case visitors do not have such clothing to cover themselves with.

On the way back to Athens, you will briefly stop at Thermopylae, where you can see the statue of the Spartan King Leonidas, famous for leading the battle against the Persians in 480 BC. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Athens, where we will drop you off at your hotel.

Greca Tip: Take a stroll in Kalambaka's old town and look for handmade wood-carved objects and religious icons as well as home-made sausages, honey, fruit sweets and jams, and the regional pudding “spatoula” or “halva” for a sweet aftertaste.

Today, you have the opportunity to enjoy a free day in Athens, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for an enchanting experience, you can opt for a captivating one-day cruise to three stunning islands nestled in the picturesque Saronic Gulf.

On the one hand, if you choose to embark on the full-day cruise, you will be conveniently transferred to the port, where your adventure begins. The itinerary includes visits to three remarkable islands: Aegina, renowned for its delightful assortment of pistachios; Poros, celebrated for its scenic beauty; and Hydra, the greenest among these islands, boasting elegant stone mansions, a tranquil atmosphere, and car-free streets.

On board the ship, you can indulge in a delectable lunch accompanied by traditional Greek music and dance. At the end of the day, you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless experience.

On the other hand, if you decide to spend the day in Athens, you will have the freedom to explore the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks at your own leisurely pace.

Greca Tip: You can add the cruise during step 1/3 while booking. If you do, make sure to try the different varieties of pistachio nuts grown on the famous island of Aegina!

Today, you will enjoy a delightful breakfast and prepare for a wonderful day as you discover the city of Athens and its fascinating blend of history and modernity.

During the panoramic tour, you will admire the Athenian Trilogy (National Library, University, and Academy of Athens), the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro), where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the Zappeion, the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus, which for centuries was one of the largest temples in Greece, and Hadrian’s Arch, built in honor of the Roman emperor.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Acropolis, symbol of the classical world and home to the Parthenon, a masterpiece of Greek architecture; the Erechtheion, with its famous Caryatids; and the Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to the goddess of victory. You will admire the history and legends surrounding these monuments while enjoying panoramic views of Athens from the hill.

The tour concludes at a central point in the city, ideal for continuing to explore Athens at your own pace. Later, you will head at your own rhythm to Monastiraki to join the “Athens by Night” tour, enjoying a walking tour through Plaka and Anafiotika, admiring the illuminated Acropolis, and passing by iconic sites such as Athens Cathedral and Ermou Street, while discovering how the city comes alive under the moonlight.

Greca Tip: At the Acropolis, mythology, architecture, and unique Athens panoramas come together. See how the Parthenon has inspired architects for over two thousand years and discover the stories of the ancient gods and heroes who dwell in these monuments.

At the appointed time, one of our drivers will transfer you to Athens International Airport, where you will check in your luggage and benefit from the tax return resulting from your last-minute tax-free shopping for family and friends.

Having spent a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to create together new and extraordinary moments that will be lovingly etched in your memory.

Have a nice trip! Or, as the Greeks say: "Kalo taksidi!"

Greca Tip: As a going-away gift you can choose from a wide range of brightly colored flokati rugs, handmade sandals, embroidered covers, and Greek honey or olive oil.