Roman Ruins to Greek Grandeur Tour - 9 Days

Welcome to Rome! As soon as you arrive at the airport, we'll be ready to whisk you off to your hotel. You’ll find all necessary details to connect with your guide displayed on the information boards at the hotel. Later in the afternoon, we'll head to the Esquilino neighbourhood, which offers a perfect introduction to Rome with its impressive basilicas and a glimpse of the iconic Colosseum. Dinner is included as part of this experience, rounding off your first day in this historic city. Please note: throughout the tour, travellers may join or leave at various points along the way, but rest assured, the maximum group size will not be exceeded. 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.

This morning, we'll embark on a comprehensive three-hour guided tour of Rome—often hailed as the Eternal City. Our exploration combines a walking tour of Imperial Rome with a panoramic bus journey through one of Western civilisation's most storied cities. During our adventure, we'll see famous landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine, the exterior of the Colosseum, and the Imperial Forums. We'll drive past the Circus Maximus, the Baths of Caracalla, and the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. As we continue, we'll also pass the Pyramid of Cestius and Castel Sant'Angelo. The tour will culminate at Vatican City around 11:30 a.m., leaving you with the afternoon free to explore at your leisure.

On your third day, you have the freedom to explore Rome at your leisure. We recommend considering an optional excursion to the captivating sites of Naples, Capri, and Pompeii. This journey offers a glimpse into southern Italy's rich heritage and stunning landscapes, allowing for a well-rounded appreciation of the region's history and natural beauty.

On day four, we embark on a journey towards the Adriatic Sea, traversing the striking landscapes of the Apennine Mountains. Our initial stop is the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, an exquisite 11th-century Benedictine structure built atop the remnants of an ancient Roman temple – entrance is included. Continuing onwards, we visit Termoli, a delightful coastal city renowned for its ancient walled town. Here you can admire the stunning 13th-century castle and the Romanesque cathedral. Spend some time enjoying lunch and taking a leisurely stroll. Later, we progress to Bari, a historic port city with roots dating back to pre-Roman times. Take the time to explore its charming old town with its narrow alleyways, beautiful churches, and lively atmosphere that embodies the essence of southern Italy.

After breakfast, we travel to Brindisi, where you have free time to enjoy a pleasant walk along the picturesque seafront, admire the impressive Roman column, and explore the charming old town. Our journey continues as we board a modern ferry at 1:00 p.m., embarking on an eight-hour voyage across the shimmering Ionian Sea. We arrive in Igoumenitsa, Greece, later in the evening and head straight to our accommodation to settle in for the night.

After breakfast, we journey through the towering mountains of Epirus, making our way to Metsovo, a picturesque Balkan village nestled amid the peaks. This region, shaped by its rugged landscape, offers a vibrant culture infused with Slavic and Turkish influences. You will have the opportunity to stroll through the village, admiring its traditional stone houses adorned with red tile roofs and beautifully carved wooden balconies. As we move into Thessaly, we'll stop at Kastraki, a charming village boasting breathtaking views of Meteora Valley. Savour a leisurely lunch before we set off to discover Meteora, a remarkable World Heritage Site. The name "Meteora" translates to "suspended in the air," aptly describing the soaring rock formations topped with ancient monasteries. These secluded sanctuaries have been retreats for monks in search of solitude and peace for centuries. Our visit includes entrance to one of its most famed monasteries, allowing us to delve into its rich history. We conclude the day in Kalabaka, where a delicious dinner awaits.

Today, we'll travel south through the picturesque landscapes of the Thessaly region to reach Delphi. Known for its stunning archaeological site, Delphi offers sweeping views over the Gulf of Corinth – a sight not to be missed. You'll have time to enjoy lunch amidst this breathtaking setting. Our journey continues to the Hosios Loukas Monastery, celebrated as one of the most exquisite examples of Byzantine architecture in Greece. Its intricate 11th-century mosaics are a highlight for any visitor. As the day winds down, we'll make our way to Athens, arriving in the evening, ready for what this vibrant city has to offer.

Today, we'll explore the vibrant city of Athens with the expertise of a local guide. Starting with visits to key landmarks, we'll take in the Presidential Mansion, admire the historic Panathenaic Stadium—host of the first modern Olympic Games—and appreciate the grand architecture of the National Library. As we wander through Athens' lively squares, you'll feel the pulse of the city's busy centre. Our tour also extends to the newly developed districts, which beautifully blend the legacy of the 2004 Olympic Games with modern life. We'll then conclude our excursion at the iconic Acropolis, where you can choose to delve deeper into its ancient history, though entry is at your discretion. As the evening unfolds, we'll head to the historical neighbourhood of Plaka. Known for its inviting Greek tavernas, Plaka offers an authentic taste of Athens' vibrant folklore and culture, perfect for an immersive experience of Greek hospitality.

Following breakfast, our adventure concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your time with us in Athens.