Greece to Italy Epic Odyssey

Welcome to Athens! Upon your arrival in this vibrant city, we will transfer you to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax. You will have some free time to start exploring Athens at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, please check the information boards in the hotel reception area to learn more about the commencement of your tour. Enjoy your first evening in this historic city. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We'll begin our day in Athens with an insightful city tour, guided by a local expert. You'll have the chance to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Presidential Mansion and the Panathenaic Stadium—the site of the first modern Olympic Games. As we continue, we'll pass the National Library, among other significant sites, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s bustling squares. Our tour will also guide us through modern districts that sprang up after the 2004 Olympic Games. Our tour concludes at the Acropolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore further on your own if you wish, though please note that the entrance fee is not included. In the evening, we'll transfer you to the historic neighbourhood of Plaka. Famous for its delightful Greek tavernas, Plaka is the perfect place to experience traditional Greek cuisine and culture. Enjoy the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich and lively folklore of this enchanting city.

Today, our adventure takes us from Athens to the heart of the Peloponnese. We'll start with a visit to the Corinth Canal, an extraordinary feat of engineering completed in the late 19th century. This canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf, profoundly altering maritime traffic in the region.Our journey continues through the scenic mountain roads leading to Tripoli, the capital of the Arcadia region. Here, we'll pause to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Aeros Square, a popular spot bustling with local cafes and restaurants, ideal for a quick refreshment or a leisurely exploration.Next, we'll head to Olympia, renowned as the birthplace of the Olympic Games, first held in 776 BC. With a knowledgeable local guide, we'll explore the significant archaeological site, where you can marvel at landmarks such as the Temple of Zeus, the ancient Stadium, the Gymnasium, and the Arena. Admission to the site is included in our plans.We will then make our way to Patras, Greece's third-largest city, distinguished by its impressive medieval fortress and the grandest cathedral in the country. Nearby, the small church of St. Andrew offers an insight into its importance as a pilgrimage destination. As the day winds down, we'll come together for an included dinner, reflecting on the day's explorations and experiences.

After breakfast, we will cross the magnificent Rio–Antirrio Bridge, a stunning suspension bridge linking Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Our route takes us through Central Greece and Epirus. Upon reaching the port town of Igoumenitsa, you'll have time for a leisurely stroll before we board a modern ferry at 2:00 p.m. to sail across the Ionian Sea to Italy. We are set to arrive in Brindisi by approximately 9:00 p.m., where our day concludes with an overnight stay.

Today, we venture into the heart of southern Italy, discovering two remarkable towns that offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Our first stop is Alberobello, celebrated for its captivating trulli houses—uniquely designed with conical stone roofs. These architectural wonders are so distinctive that they have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represent a classic example of Italy's rural design.We then proceed to Matera, situated in the Basilicata region and renowned for its ancient centre, the Sassi di Matera. This collection of rock-carved dwellings is believed to be one of the world's oldest continually inhabited settlements, also earning UNESCO World Heritage status. As we wander through this iconic landscape, you'll witness the profound history embedded within its stone foundations.After enjoying a delightful lunch in Matera, included in our itinerary, we continue our journey through the picturesque landscapes of Basilicata and Campania, enveloped by sweeping mountain vistas. By evening, we arrive in Naples, where you will have the freedom to explore at your leisure. This vibrant city is famed for its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, offering myriad opportunities for discovery and enjoyment.

Following breakfast, we make our way to the port in Naples, where a ferry will take us to the enchanting Island of Capri. Once on the island, it's recommended to take the funicular up to the town of Capri. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, taking in the breathtaking vistas that the island offers. After lunch, we continue our journey to Sorrento, a picturesque town situated at the foot of a cliff, well-known for its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere. You will have free time here to explore at your own pace. Our day concludes as we travel to Salerno, a city nestled along the Gulf of Salerno, where we'll stay overnight.

We begin our day with a fascinating tour of Pompeii, where you'll have the chance to marvel at the remarkably preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city, encapsulated by the ash of Mount Vesuvius's eruption in AD 79. The visit includes tickets and a guided tour, ensuring you gain insight into the daily life of the city's once-vibrant inhabitants. Following this, we head to Naples, a city rich with history and character. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in Europe and with a historic quarter recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll have the afternoon to explore its charming streets and enjoy the local cuisine. Later, we'll travel to Cassino, where you can visit the awe-inspiring abbey – a site of intense battle during World War II. Our journey concludes in the evening as we arrive in Rome, where the city's historical grandeur awaits.

This morning, we will delve into the wonders of Rome with a guided three-hour exploration combining a walking tour of Imperial Rome with a panoramic bus ride. Rome, known as the Eternal City, is one of the oldest and most influential cities of Western civilisation. Our tour will reveal iconic landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine, provide an exterior view of the Colosseum and the Imperial Forums, and take you past the historic Circus Maximus and the splendid Baths of Caracalla. We'll also admire the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the intriguing Pyramid of Cestius, and the majestic Castel Sant’Angelo. Our journey concludes in Vatican City at around 11:30 a.m., after which you'll have the afternoon free to explore at your leisure.

On day 9, you'll have the entire day free to explore and experience the enchanting city of Rome at your own pace. Whether you're interested in visiting iconic landmarks, indulging in Italian cuisine, or simply wandering the atmospheric streets, this is your chance to create your own Roman adventure. Take the opportunity to discover hidden gems, revisit favourite spots, or immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture of this historic city.

Today, we set off towards the Adriatic Sea, travelling through the breathtaking scenery of the Apennine Mountains. Our first stop is the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, a stunning 11th-century structure built atop the ruins of an ancient Roman temple, and admission is included in the visit. We then proceed to Termoli, a delightful coastal town whose beach is bordered by an enchanting old town. You'll see its impressive 13th-century castle and the Romanesque cathedral, providing a charming backdrop for your lunch and a leisurely stroll. Our journey continues to Bari, a significant historical port city that has been inhabited since before Roman times. You'll have time to meander through the city's old town, exploring its narrow lanes, ornate churches, and experiencing the vibrant ambience that exudes the quintessential charm of Southern Italy.

Following breakfast, we’ll make our way to Brindisi, where you’re free to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sea, admire the impressive Roman column, and explore the charming old town. In the afternoon, we’ll board a modern ferry, departing at 1:00 p.m., for our passage across the Ionian Sea to Greece. We’ll arrive in Igoumenitsa after an eight-hour journey, where we’ll proceed to our accommodation for the night.

Following breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey through the majestic mountains of Epirus, arriving at Metsovo—an enchanting Balkan village tucked away amidst the hills. The village's isolation has preserved a distinct cultural heritage, influenced by both Slavic and Turkish pasts. You can leisurely explore Metsovo's charming streets, characterised by traditional stone houses, red-tiled roofs, and beautifully carved wooden balconies. Our adventure then continues into Thessaly, where we'll pause in the picturesque village of Kastraki. Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the renowned Meteora Valley. After a delightful lunch, we delve into the wonders of Meteora itself, a striking UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name "Meteora," meaning "suspended in the air," perfectly captures the essence of the towering rock formations, each crowned with monasteries that have served as sanctuaries for monks throughout history. You'll have the opportunity to visit one of these storied monasteries, with admission included. We conclude our day in the town of Kalabaka, where a delightful dinner awaits.

Today, we journey south through the picturesque region of Thessaly, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Our first stop is Delphi, where we explore the captivating archaeological site that offers stunning views over the Gulf of Corinth. You'll have some leisure time here to enjoy lunch at your own pace. Our adventure continues to the Hosios Loukas Monastery, which stands as one of Greece's finest examples of Byzantine architecture. This World Heritage Site is renowned for its magnificent 11th-century mosaics. As we marvel at the intricate artistry and serene surroundings, we'll gain a deeper appreciation of the site's historical significance. We conclude our day by travelling onwards to Athens, arriving in the evening.

On the final day of our adventure, after breakfast in Athens, our journey concludes. Reflect on the incredible experiences and new friendships formed during our travels, taking home unforgettable memories to cherish.