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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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Greece and Italy Tours & Trips

Experience incredible Italian food, tour the romantic countryside of Tuscany, or the olive groves and blue-roofed houses of Greece. Partygoers should head to Mykonos or Crete, while those who enjoy sailing will find relaxation among the Greek islands. We’ve collected the best 7-day and  10 day Italy itineraries , 10 day Greece itineraries , and even honeymoon cruises .

49 tour packages in Greece and Italy with 445 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Italy and Greece with 3-day cruise

Wonderful, we really liked it.

• 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.

Italy & Greece combo

• Christmas & New Year

Italy and Greece 4 Star w/Catamaran in Santorini

Good overall experience. We had some issues with local transportation but you team always did a good job solving our problems. As a side note, I wasn’t aware that the hotel taxes were not included. It was jus a couple of euros, but I don’t remember reading anything about it. It just may be may fault. Thanks

• Sightseeing

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

Greece and Heart of Italy with Meteoras

The Highlights of Greece & Italy - 15 Days (Self-guided)

Amazing trip that covered the highlights that we wanted to see. All top spots in Greece & Italy were visited. We had a lovely tour and thank Dot Travel Greece.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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.

Complete Greece and Sicily

Italy and Santorini

Venice Rome & Santorini 4 Star W/BBQ on a Boat

Greece and Italy - Mediterranean Trip - 15 days

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

Discover the Beauty of Southern Italy & Greece

What people love about greece and italy tours.

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.

I want to say thank you to the team, for all their hard work that was put into making this trip a success, but a special shout out to Wendy, for all your help throughout our vacation. No matter what time of day or night we send her text or call her, for any reason or need her help, she always responds quickly. Wendy is definitely a keeper!!. Apart from the little hiccups in Venice, we are looking forward to traveling with wonderful holidays in the future, and since we came back, we have also recommended wonderful holidays to some of our family and friends. Overall it was a great trip and would definitely recommend this trip to anyone.

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Italy and Greece Itinerary

Greece › Itinerary for Italy & Greece Updated: April 21, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Go in Greece
• Complete Greece Travel Guide
• Where to Go in Italy
• Complete Italy Travel Guide

Magical Positano on Italy’s Amalfi Coast .

Where to Go in Greece and Italy One Week Itinerary : visit Greece or Italy but not both. Two Weeks or More : divide time evenly between the two countries. One Week in Greece and Italy 7 to 10 days is not enough time to visit both Greece and Italy. Pick one and stick to it. No sense wasting time traveling between the two when time is limited. Be sure to fly into one place and fly out of a different place so you don’t spend time retracing your steps. If you’re somewhere in-between (say, 12 days) it’s a coin flip – though I’d err on the side of spending more time in one country than a limited amount of time in two countries.

One Week in Greece – Itinerary

Suggested Itineraries for Greece (reverse order is fine): • 1 day in Athens , 2 in Mykonos , 4 in Santorini (fly into Athens, fly out of Santorini) • 1 day in Athens, 3 in Naxos or Paros , 3 in Santorini (fly into Athens, fly out of Santorini) • 2 days in Mykonos, 2 in Naxos or Paros, 3 in Santorini (fly into Mykonos, fly out of Santorini) • 4 days in Crete , 3 days in Santorini (fly into Heraklio or Chania, fly out of Santorini)

One Week in Italy – Itinerary

Suggested Itineraries for Italy (reverse order is fine): • 2 days in Rome , 3 in Florence and area, 2 days in Venice (fly into Rome, fly out of Venice) • 2 days in Venice, 2 in Milan , 3 in Lake Como area (fly into Venice, fly out of Milan) • 4 days in Rome, 3 in the Amalfi Coast (Fly into Rome, fly out of Rome or Naples) Two Weeks in Greece and Italy With 14 days spend one week in Greece and one week in Italy. Use the above itinerary recommendations. Like above be sure to fly in and out of different cities. E.g. If you’re coming from London: Fly London to Venice, train to Florence, train to Rome, fly to Mykonos, ferry to Naxos, ferry to Santorini, fly Santorini to London. Three Weeks or More in Greece and Italy With 20 to 30 days you can visit all the must-see places: Rome , Florence , Venice , Athens , Santorini , and Crete . But also some less touristy spots: Naples , Perugia, Matera , Naxos , Milos , and Nafplio come to mind. Oh, and the wonderful Agriturismo in Tuscany and Umbria . Both countries are loaded with wonderful destinations. And when it comes to the Greek islands you really can’t go wrong: point at the map and pick any island. I’d be shocked if you left disappointed.

Map of Greece and Italy with Key Ferry Ports

The 10 Best Places to Go in Greece and Italy Santorini, Greece – Incredible views, great food, fun tours, and fantastic things to do. One of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe. Crete, Greece – The best beach in Greece is Elafonisi in southwestern Crete. The island is loaded with wonderful places to visit: Chania, Rethymno, Samaria Gorge, Agios Nikolaos, and the top notch historical site at Knossos. Naxos, Greece – The magical Chora (capital town) of Naxos island at dusk in the Cyclades. Above the town is the castle of Sanoudos. Naxos is filled with wonderful beaches and great local food. Athens, Greece – One of the greatest historical marvels in the world. Athens’ top sites are in a compact center making a 1 or 2 day visit perfect for seeing the highlights. Mykonos, Greece – The island is famous for dance clubs, nightlife, and lively beaches. But if you’re not interested the party scene is easy to avoid and the island has plenty of quiet beaches. Rome, Italy – The best of history, food, and art all in one city. Rome is a can’t miss destination. Florence, Italy – My favorite place in Italy. The city could easily fill a week of sightseeing but 2 full days can allow for visits to most of the top sights. Nearby Tuscan towns (San Gimignano, Siena, Lucca) make for wonderful day trips. Perugia, Italy – This is an incredible historical city and a delight to explore. Nearby towns like Orvieto, Todi, and Assisi make it a great base for exploring Umbria. Venice, Italy – The magical setting of Venice is one of kind. It shouldn’t be missed but a short visit (one or two days) is enough for most travelers. Agriturismo in Italy – This is a highlight of a visit to Italy. Stay at a working farm and enjoy the local food and wine. Accommodations can range from simple and inexpensive to luxury and boutique. (Those are my boys playing in the pool at an agriturismo in Tuscany.) Getting Between Italy and Greece For most travelers flying will be the best way to get between Italy and Greece. There are ferries from the east coast cities of Italy (Venice, Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi) to the west coast of Greece (Patras, Igoumenitsa, Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zante) but if time is any concern these are not the best ways to get between Greece and Italy. There are no ferries from Italy to Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, or Athens. Popular Flights Between Italy and Greece Flights from Italy to Athens will fly year-round. Flights from Italy to the Greek Islands (Santorini, Mykonos, and Heraklio, Crete) will typically run May to October. Search Kayak.com for routes, times, and fares. • Rome-Athens • Rome-Santorini • Rome-Mykonos • Rome-Heraklio • Milan-Athens • Milan-Santorini • Milan-Mykonos • Milan-Heraklio • Venice-Athens • Venice-Santorini • Venice-Mykonos • Naples-Athens • Naples-Santorini • Naples-Mykonos

About Santorini Dave

Hi Dave! just curious. I always wanted to go to Naples, primarily for the food. But Santorini is my dream destination. If I had two weeks and wanted to spend a good 4 days in Santorini, what would you suggest as an itinerary?

There are often direct flights (in summer) between Naples and Santorini so a trip that combines both places is easily accomplished. Throw in some time in Rome and Mykonos, Naxos, or Athens and your two weeks will be accounted for. Be sure to fly in (e.g. Rome) and out (e.g. Athens) from different airports to save time and money.

Hi Dave – we are looking at flying into Venice in February for my 30th however we want to avoid the carnival on the weekend of 16th/17th. So I was thinking of flying into Venice for 14/15th then on to Rome for the 16th/17th so 2 days in each City. Do I have to fly from Venice to Rome and is it worth it? Thank you!

Train is more relaxing and less hectic and stressful than taking the plane. It does take a little longer but when you factor in getting to and from both airports and then dealing with check-in and security lines the difference is less than 2 hours.

We are planning a 3 week honeymoon to Greece and Italy. Where in either country would we find the best beach? We’re not huge beach fans but would like one stop (for two or three days) for beach relaxing and swimming. We’d also like good restaurants and a place or two to get a drink within walking distance. Thanks.

Greece has more great beaches than Italy. So, you’ll certainly want to have your beach stop be in Greece. Beaches high on my list would be Saint Georges beach in Naxos (to be close to great restaurants), Agia Anna or Prokopios beachbes in Naxos (if the beach is more important but fewer good places to eat), Platys Gialos beach in Mykonos, and Mylopotas beach in Ios (good restaurants nearby but for the best take the short bus ride in the Chora).

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THE PERFECT ITALY AND GREECE ITINERARY

For many people visiting Italy and Greece is a dream come true but it can be a long way to go and often a once in a lifetime trip. If you have never been to either country but have limited vacation time to use then how can you maximise your Italy and Greece itinerary to make the most of your trip?

This 3-week itinerary for Greece and Italy trip covers many of the main highlights for each country as well as a few hidden gems as well.

PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

Whether you’ve been before or it’s your first time it can be hard to process all the information out there. Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

If you are feeling really overwhelmed you might like a Trip Consultation perhaps!?

And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers!

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When to visit Italy and Greece

The best times to visit the Mediterranean are April-June and September-October. The weather is mild and the crowds are generally low.

High season is late June to early September, and prices will reflect that as will the crowds, the number of cruise ships and accommodation availability.

Despite being busy summer is still great, especially for beach time and in some of the lesser known spots. The water is warm, there are blue skies every day and a fun holiday atmosphere.

Orthodox Easter is an especially wonderful time to visit Greece as it becomes very festive with parades, parties, and on many islands bonfires , fireworks and other activities and traditions.

In Italy Carnivale in Venice  ends with the Christian celebration of  Lent , forty days before Easter so it occurs usually in February and March while the La Biennial di Venezia, Europe’s premier arts showcase, starts in May.

Christmas in both countries is very special as are the many religious holidays and celebrations. 

Best beach and swimming weather: June to September Best sightseeing weather: March to June and September/October

DAY 1- Athens

Athens is the capital of Greece and home to some of the most iconic and important historical sites and monuments in the world.

There are several ways to get to Athens which cover air, sea, rail, driving and even on foot. Once you’ve arrived it’s easy enough to get into the city centre and having a private driver waiting for you is our favourite way to do it!

With two days in Athens you can see and do a lot and if you can increase it to three or four days you will not be disappointed – there are so many amazing day trips you can do.

Spend your first day in the Athens exploring the ancient centre. Everything is very compact and its easy to get around, in fact most things can be seen easily on foot.

Apart from the many things you can do in Athens including great shopping, incredible food, and all the ancient sites there is also great nightlife with a plethora of bars, tavernas, and clubs to choose from. There are a lot of new hotels and restaurants many with incredible rooftop views , especially of the Acropolis.

The Acropolis Museum is world-class and needs to be enjoyed either before or after you visit the Acropolis so it’s the perfect activity for your second day. Make sure you read our complete guide for lots of great tips including how to beat the crowds!

Where to stay in Athens

For couples : Zillers Hotel has only 10 rooms and some have amazing Acropolis views. There is a lovely rooftop bar and restaurant and it’s right on Mitropolous dining street. Also check out The Foundry Suites in Psiri which is a very cool converted former Foundry with lots of retro elements.

For families and groups : The Pinnacle is a 2 bedroom suite that sleeps 6 or these Twin Lofts can sleep up to 12!

Solo : I love to stay at Ergon House when I’m on my own. Its across from Zillers and part of the famous Ergon House food emporiums. They have a small business centre and very helpful and attentive staff.

Things to do in Athens on Day One

• wander down Ermou Pedestrian Street
• Visit Syntagma Square and see Parliament House and the Changing of the Greek Presidential Guard – the Evzones
• explore Plaka and the many cafes, shops and galleries
• stop by the Monastaraki flea market

DAY 3 – Meteora 

Day 4 – Santorini 

Santorini is a bucket list destination for most people for good reason. It is one of those places that not only meets your expectations but probably exceeds it.

We love to stay in Oia which is considered the most picturesque village, although a lot of people also enjoy Imerovigli which is about a 20-minute walk along the nice flat footpath that runs along the Caldera seam. For a truly authentic Greek experience consider staying in the interior village of Pyrgos.

There are a surprising amount of things to do on Santorini with beaches, wineries, hot springs, great shopping and some of the worlds most iconic and photographed sunsets.

How to get to Santorini

You can travel to Santorini by ferry or by plane from Athens. Return to Athens from Meteora either on your overnight tour, by driving or by train.

The small international airport has several flights to Athens a day as well as regular flights in summer from other European destinations like Rome and England. Check flight schedules HERE.

There are also many ferries each day, year-round. Most service either the Western or Eastern Cyclades Islands and on to Athens whilst some come from Crete.

TIP : Both the port and the airport can be very busy in summer and there can be long waits for the cablecar, taxis and donkeys. It pays to have a private transfer waiting for you!

Where to stay in Santorini

For couples : Ducato Di Oia ( adults only) suites in Oia or Above Blue Suites in Imerovigli for more isolation and at a lower price point.

For families and groups : White Harmony Suites have 2 bedroom suites or Theoxenia Boutique Hotel have squad rooms and are not far from, dare I say it, McDonalds.

Solo : Kivotos in Imerovigli for a splurge or Abelonas Retreat on a budget.

Things to do in Santorini on Day One

• explore the maze of streets in Oia including Panagia Platsani Church
• visit famous Atlantis Books for a unique bookshop experience
• check out the many upmarket boutiques and jewellery shops in Oia
• walk down to Oia Castle

Day 5 – Santorini 

More cool things to do in Santorini 

• a half day tour of the island
• tour the world renowned wineries with a sommelier
• do wine tasting AND a cooking class
• swim at Black Beach, Red Beach and Kamari Beaches
• visit authentic Pyrgos village and see what Santorini is like for long time locals
• attend a ‘traditional’ Greek wedding !
• have a professional photographic session done – hard to beat the backdrop!

Day 6 – Naxos 

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands and is famous for its lush and fertile valleys, its picturesque, whitewashed villages and towns and beautiful beaches.

Despite being such a large island it has a small local population and there is a surprisingly wide array of things to see and do. It’s a very laid back destination and its easy to see why Naxos is so popular, especially with families .

It’s also a very affordable island and represents great value for money for all types of travellers.

How to get to Naxos 

Most people travel to Naxos from Sanotirini by ferry which takes about 2 hours. There are several ferries each day, year-round. The main town of Chora is also the main port.

It is possible to fly but you will need to connect with another flight back at Athens airport.

Where to stay in Naxos 

For couples : Antony Suites are gorgeous, right near St.George beach and are Adults Only

For families and groups : Ippokampos apartments are in the Chora and can sleep up to 5 while Aegean Land have 2 bedrooms apartments right on the beach at Plaka

Solo : Mystique of Naxos is right near the beach in the Chora and has stunning rooms and a great little rooftop pool and sundeck. You can walk to everything and it’s very affordbale too!

Things to do in Naxos  

• Explore the Chora including the Old Market
• visit the Kastro
• drop into the Bazeos Tower
• spend some time at the Folklore Museum
• Visit the Portara at sunset
• wander down to Saint George Beach for a swim and perhaps stay for dinner

Day 8 – Paros

For many people Paros is the perfect Greek island. It’s not too big nor too small, and there are things to see and do that suit everyone. It’s also a busy ferry stop from Athens to the other popular Cyclades islands being only 30 minutes from Naxos or 60 from Mykonos.

It’s also got a great little neighbour right next door called Anti-Paros which is a wonderful destination in itself.

We like to stay in Naoussa on Paros which many say is like a small, cheaper version of Mykonos with a lively mix of tavernas, bars, and nightclubs as well as lovely whitewashed alleys full of great cafes, bars, beautiful artisan stores and boutiques and gelati shops.

The port town of Parikia is also nice and a little more affordable than Naoussa. Spend your first day on Paros exploring your local town or villages, swimming at the beach and enjoying a long, lazy dinner as the sun goes down.

There’s plenty of time to take in the sights exploring the many things to do on Paros over the next day. Hire a car for at least a day and do a full loop of the island – there’s many wonderful surprises!

How to get to Paros

You can also travel to Paros by ferry from Naxos which takes about 30 minutes.

There are many ferries each day, year-round. The port town is called Parikia and that, or Naoussa are the best options to base yourself.

Where to stay in Paros  

For couples : Lilly Residence is stunning and Adults Only or Senia Hotel is a perennial favourite year round.

For families and groups : Paliomylos Hotel and Spa is where we chose to stay for special birthday celebrations with 38 family and friends and have since returned several times. Chrys and the team are amazing!

Solo : Parian Village Beach Hotel is right across from the beach near the port town of Parikia and have great value single rooms with beautiful sea views and a nice pool.

Further reading: Where to stay on Paros  

Things to do in Paros on your first day

• Explore the villages of Naoussa or Parikia depending on where you are staying.
• Naoussa: don’t miss the Venetian Fort, the old fishing port, Kapopoulos Fine Arts Gallery,  the ducks at the Harbour Bridge and  the Church of the Virgin Mary ( Panayia).
• Parakia: The Church of 100 doors ( and its museum), the Frankish Castle, the Archaic Temple of Athena, the myriad of shops and cafes in the back alleys and the Port.

Lavrio is a town south of Athens on the Greek Mainland. The word Lavrion comes from ‘Lavra’ which means alley or paths and the area is thought to have been inhabited since Neolithic times.

It is a much prettier (and smaller) port than Pireaus and is also closer to the airport which is about 35 minutes’ drive away. Stopping here for a night will give you a feel for the area called the ‘Athenian Riviera” and it’s a very pleasant way to end your time in Greece.

There are not as many ferry connections to Lavrio as there are to Pireaus but there are regular connections from Paros, Mykonos,Syros and Tilos – something only seasoned travellers seem to know about!

The main point of interest in Lavrio is the fishing village itself, the Mineralogical Museum and nearby Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio, a 15-minute drive away.

Further reading: Best hotels near Athens Airport

How to get to Lavrio

You can travel to Lavrio by ferry from Paros which takes about 3 hours but you may need to connect on Syros or Mykonos. Timetables for this route are often not released until Spring so keep an eye on schedules HERE.

If a ferry is not running at the time you require you can fly to Athens from Paros and catch a taxi to Lavrio.

Where to stay in Lavrio 

Cape Sounio, Grecotel Exclusive Resort  is a sprawling resort on the beachfront and is a great choice for all travellers.

Day 10 – Rome

The ‘Eternal’ city is one of the most iconic cities in the world and a place that’s sure to capture a piece of your heart.

As the capital of Italy, it has the busiest airport in the country and Rome is where many people visit before moving on to explore other areas.

There is a lot to see and do in Rome and many people will tell you even a week is not enough, but the main attractions are very close together and you can see many highlights in a short time ourselves.

Of course you cannot miss a visit to the Pantheon, the Colosseum or St. Peters Basilica and the Vatican – all in close proximity to each other and all incredible.

The Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum and the various Piazza’s are also world-famous and wonderfully trattorias, wine bars, high-end boutiques and beautiful gardens are all not to be missed.

Transport Infrastructure in Italy is good and with few islands, it is easy to get from one place to another quickly.

How to get to Rome from Athens

The easiest way to get to Italy from Greece is to fly. Lavrio is close to Athens airport and within a few short hours, you can be on the ground in Rome.

There are regular daily flights between Athens and Rome with Aegean Airlines and Air Italia, sometimes more in Summer. Other airlines servicing the route usually include Easyjet, RyanAir and Lufthansa.

It is also possible to get to Italy from Greece by sea with regular ferries between Patras and the Ionian Islands and Brindisi and Bari in Italy. You would then need to drive or catch the train to Rome.

If you would prefer not to organise everything yourself in Italy check out this very popular 5 day – Best of Italy tour !

Where to stay in Rome

For couples :   It’s hard to beat J.K. Place Roma with its central proximity to the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon and its incredible roof top bar. Casa del Moro is a very romantic loft with beautiful views from the room balcony and is a very affordable option too.

For families and groups : Hotel Cosmopolita is in a great location near the Trevi Fountain and they have quad rooms. Just around the corner is Filo Black , a stylish 2 bedroom apartment that sleeps 6 and is fully self-contained. We also love Raphel’s Pallette which also sleeps 6, is very spacious and a design lovers dream!

Solo : Apollo Rooms Colosseo is a fairly new establishment with friendly owners and quiet rooms. As the name suggests it is quite close to the Colosseum and well located to see most of the highlights of room on foot or by public transport.

Things to do in Rome on your first day

• Walk down the Spanish Steps. Take in the view at the top and wander down slowly exploring Pincio, Piazza Del Popolo and Santa Maria del Popolo Church
• Stop for a coffee or Spritz at the garden of Hotel du Russie, one of Rome’s best-kept secrets
• Stroll down Via Condotti and see all the high-end fashion brands
• Finish at the Pantheon, one of the most incredible buildings in Europe with the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome
• do a Foodie Cycling tour with a local Chef
• participate in a Pasta and Tiramisu lovers workshop

Things to do in Rome on your second day

• Start the day with coffee at one of the many cafes on the Borgo Pio
• Beat the crowds and take in an early small-group tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Be sure to add a tour of St Peter’s Basilica as well!
• If time permits and you are up to it climbing the dome will reward you with incredible views
• Walk around St.Peter’s Square. If you are lucky you may get a wave from the Pope!
• Walk back over the Tiber River and over to Palazzo Navona which has so much to see and do
• Take a VIP tour of the Colosseum, Palatine and the Roman Forum
• do a magical Rome-by-night e-bike tour
• explore the creepy hidden Bone Crypts of Ancient Rome

Express entry - Vatican/Sistine Chapel/St Peters

Dont queue with the crowds. Book these tickets in advance for faster than skip-the-line entry!

Day 12 – Amalfi Coast

The stunning Amalfi Coast is located in southern Italy’s Campania region and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located south of Naples the Amalfi Coast starts just behind Sorrento and continues for 60 kilometres (37 miles) along the coast including the towns of Positano, Ravello, Praiano, Amalfi, Minori and Cetara.

The region is bordered by the dramatic Lattari Mountains on one side and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea on the other.

It is one of the most popular and most photographed destinations in Europe where people come from all over the world to experience the classic ‘la dolce vita’ atmosphere.

How to get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome

The Amalfi Coast does not have an airport, a large port, nor a train station so it is a little tricky to get to. This is probably a good things or visitor numbers would be out of control!

Most people make their way to Naples, either by train or plane and then on to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

You can get the fast train from Rome to Naples very easily but then you do have to change to a local train to get down to Sorrento and then catch a taxi, a bus or book a private driver from there.

The Amalfi Coast is very beautiful but with one narrow coastal road in summer it can be very congested and difficult to get around. There are also a lot of stairs!

Some people choose to stay in Sorrento and explore the coast on day trips . Sorrento is a lovely town and relatively flat with good transport connections to the islands as well as Pompeii and other attractions.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

For couples : Buca Di Bacco has an amazing, much-photographed restaurant with lovely rooms with views over the iconic town. It is located next to much-coveted Le Sirenuse but is much more affordable. Il San Pietro di Positano is our pick for a splurge and is truly a dream to stay at.

For families and groups :  Groups should check out Residence Villa Yiara which is a gorgeous family-run hotel with incredible views and budget-friendly prices. Villa Celentano Apartments Hotel is also a great option as they have well-priced rooms with kitchenettes.

If you would prefer a private villa then check out Claudia’s Fairytale , a simply gorgeous 4 bedroom house that has hosted celebrities and dignitaries such as US Presidents.

Solo : Hotel Dimora Fornillo is a modest small hotel with spacious rooms and beautiful patios that overlook the sea. There is a path right down to the sea and breakfast is included.

Fun things to do on the Amalfi Coast

• Explore the coastline on a luxury cruise
• A private tour of Pompeii and incredible Herculaneum – some say even better than Pompeii
• Join a private walking tour of the hidden alleys high up in Ravello 
• Visit the beautiful,cool and lush Mills Nature Reserve – cool and lush
• Head over to the island of Capri for the day
• A private Wine Tour to Irpinia
• attend a ceramics workshop with a local potter

Tour the Amalfi Coast with a private driver and car

Day 15 – 18 : florence.

Florence is the capital of Tuscany and thought by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Famous for its magnificent Duomo, the Statue of David, the ancient Ponte Vecchio bridge and heaving with works by Michelangelo and other artists it is also the gateway to the beautiful green hills of Tuscany and the many wineries, villages and sun-baked olive groves that call it home.

The Duomo of Santa Maria dell’Assunta in Florence is a perfect example of Roman-Pisan Gothic architecture and is completely made of white marble. It’s designed in the shape of a Latin cross with an interior constructed of black, white, and grey marble.

Lucca is just one hour from Florence so it is really worth a day trip to this charming town, and then head to nearby Pisa as well.

Pisa of course is famous for the leaning Tower of Pisa , the huge cathedral, and the Baptistery. Don’t forget the obligatory selfie holding up the tower!

Other day trips from Tuscany that are worth mentioning are visiting the towns of Sienna or region of Chianti or even a visit to Cinque Terre.

How to get to Florence

Florence is well connected with the rest of Italy and Europe and is easy to get to by air or on the ground.

Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola is the International Airport and is located just 4kms from the city centre. The airport is usually serviced by some of Europe’s best-known airlines including Alitalia, Lufthansa, British Airways and KLM.

Florence is also a key stop on the Italian Rail network . It has good connections with Rome, which is only 90 minutes away and the main cities in the north.

It is also possible to arrive by road. Eurolines has the most extensive bus network and is generally reliable and well priced. If driving then the main road artery, the A1, links the north and south of the country running right past Florence.

To get from the Amalfi Coast to Florence you can either reverse your trip back to Rome and continue from there ( train is the most enjoyable) or fly from Naples.

Where to stay in Florence

For couples: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze is hard to beat and offer the impeccable standards of service and luxury that this brand is famous for. We also love San Firenze Suites and Spa with their wonderful Duomo views or beautiful Palazzo Castri 1874 with their lovely gardens.

For a great budget option check out BandB Firenze 8 Cittadella 8.

For families and groups: Groups love staying at The Legendary Giulia which is a sprawling Villa in the Tuscan countryside that has 4 bedrooms and a swimming pool as well! If you want to stay in the heart of Florence then Nutmeg is a 4 bedroom apartment right near the Arno River or Jacopo has 3 bedrooms with views over the famous Duomo and rooftops of the city.

Solo: Il Diospero B&B have modest rooms in their family palazzo and friendly home cooked meals and personal service. Hotel David is also worth a look with its great views, excellent service and a pretty garden to use as well.

Cool things to do in Florence

• Uffizi Gallery – VIP priority access!
• Enjoy the original Florentine Steak experience – heaps of fun!
• Join a small group walking tour – an Introduction to Florence  
• A private day trip to Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti
• Take a balloon ride over breathtaking Tuscany
• See Florence from the rooftops – get the best,hidden photo locations!
• Do a Chainti Wine and Food Safari
• A full day private tour to Cinque Terre
• do a wonderful Tuscan cooking class and learn to make Italian like Mama!
• go truffle hunting in the Chianti Hills

Day 18 -21 : Venice

Be sure to plan your arrival in Venice on a Vaporetto – a water bus, which is a great way to get a feel for the city and an exhilarating way to start. The boat will lead you down the Grand Canal towards your hotel, or somewhere near it and you will be speechless as you see the city around you.

After you have settled into your hotel head to Piazza San Marco and St Mark’s Square which is one of the most famous squares in the world. The Piazza houses remarkable buildings like St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

Head to Rialto Bridge, the oldest and most magical of Venice’s bridges and then simply stroll through the narrow streets around the area, with its many small canals, trattorias, wine bars, small shops and much more.

Be sure to visit Doge’s Palace with its exquisite rooms and decoration, its prison and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Then head to the most important religious edifice in Venice, the Basilica di San Marco.

After the Basilica, explore the Campanile. This structure is one of the most photographed in Venice and the Cathedral’s bell tower and is the symbol of the city.

Cross the Ponte di Rialto to reach the Rialto Market, one of the best in Venice and bustling with vendors selling produce and handicrafts. Some of the best tomatoes you will ever see, or smell!

If you are an art lover then the Gallerie dell’Accademia focuses on pre-nineteenth century art and is one of the largest in the world. Also be sure to visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Punta della Dogana.

The next day take a water bus to the Sestiere Cannaregio, which is located north of the Grand Canal. Get off at “Ferrovia” cross the Ponte delle Guglie and walk to the Jewish Ghetto , a fascinating and somewhat sobering area where the Jews were forced to live during the Venetian Republic.

We also recommend exploring Cannaregio with its charming little canals, pretty houses and churches. It is one of the most authentic areas in Venice and very charming. Fondamenta della Misericordia is also worth checking out especially in the evening when it can get very lively.

Of course no trip to Venice is complete without a Gondola ride which are especially romantic as the sunsets of course.

How to get to Venice

Venice is a series of small islands but it is very well connected to the mainland and other nearby islands. Being one of Europes most popular cities it is relatively easy to get to.

It is possible to fly from Florence to Venice but you will likely connect in Rome. Most people do the trip either by train or car.

Venice’s central train station, Venezia Santa Lucia railway station, connects the city with numerous countries and other Italian towns. Many people fly into Rome or Milan and catch the train to Venice from there. It is the easiest and most comfortable way of getting around Italy and a style of travel we highly recommend.

Check Rail Europe and/or Seat61 for timetables and bookings

Only a small part of Venice is accessible to motor vehicles so you have to leave your car in a parking garage such as  Garage San Marco or Garage Autorimessa Comunale , in Piazzale Roma.

Where to stay in Venice

For couples : The Gritti Palace hotel is considered one of the best in the world for good reason and it is also one of the most photographed, with its central location right on the Grand Canal.  For something cheaper, Hotel Antiche Figure is a small boutique hotel in a wonderful canal location with a small restaurant and bar and excellent service.

For families and groups :  Aqua Apartments are great for families as they have small kitchenettes where you can keep supplies and self-cater. Apollonia is a rather extraordinary grand Venetian home filled with Renaissance Art and with a roof terrace – it sleeps up to 7 in 3 bedrooms. For something even bigger check out Repubblica Heights , a huge 5 bedroom apartment that oozes the splendour of the Doge’s era in every room.

Solo : Charming House IQs have beautiful, designer suites in a converted Palazzo in a quiet spot near the Grand Canal. No crimson bedspreads here!

Cool Things to do in Venice

Best of Venice Tour – St. Marks Square, St. Marks Basilica & Campanile & more

Do a Doge’s Palace: Secret itinerariares Tour

Visit the islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello by boat

Sail, swim and cook in the Venetian Lagoon

Take a private class with a renowned glass artist

Relax in the cool gardens of Giardini della Biennale

Ride a Gondola with a Gondolier seranade

Spend a day in the sparkling Prosecco Hills!

Create a Carnivale mask with a master mask maker

With this Italy and Greece itinerary, you will spend 3 glorious weeks exploring two of the most interesting and most beautiful countries on the planet.

Of course, you can adjust it for a slower pace simply by extending a few places by a day or two – perhaps the Cinque Terra in Italy or Crete in Greece?

We guarantee you will have the trip of a lifetime and will cover some of the very best highlights for both countries that are on offer, and more.

 Salute & Yamas!  

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Welcome to Greece Travel Secrets! I’m Sandy, a tragic Grecophile married to a Greek, hoping to help you have the best possible trip to Greece. We want you to experience the famous Greek ‘Filotimo’ before you even get there.

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10-Day Italy and Greece Tour of Rome, Venice, and Athens

10 days, 3 countries and 10 cities

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9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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Admire the art and architecture of Rome and the rich cultural heritage of Florence. Visit the monasteries of Meteora and see the site of the most important oracle in the classical world.

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10 Day Italy and Greece Tour of Rome, Venice, and Athens

With 4-Day Aegean Cruise Premier

This tour spends an additional 3 nights exploring the Greek Isles. 

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Fast Track Entrance to the Vatican Museums

Explore Rome, Florence, Delphi and Athens with a Local Specialist

View the ancient sites of Rome, the Duomo and Baptistery in Florence, the Doge's Palace and the Basilica in Venice and the Parthenon, Royal Palace and the Temple of Zeus in Athens

See Hadrian's Arch in Athens

Scenic Cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

European flight from Milan to Athens

Optional Experiences and free time

Four-night Aegean Cruise

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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• How to Plan a Trip to Italy and Greece: 6 Tips (2024)

Italy and Greece are two of the most popular destinations in Europe. These two countries offer a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, from ancient ruins to colorful seaside towns.

For a memorable and hassle-free trip, here are some tips on how to plan your Italy and Greece itinerary well.

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• 1. How Long to Spend

2. Italy and Greece Itinerary Suggestions

3. costs for a trip to italy and greece, 4. best times to visit italy and greece, 5. which country to enter first, 6. how to travel between italy and greece, 1. how long to spend in italy and greece.

A trip to Italy and Greece would need at least 10 days to take in their main highlights. The 10-day itinerary could be customized based on your preferences.

If you are inclined towards historical and cultural exploration, we suggest allocating more time to Italy, perhaps spending 7 days there and 3 days in Greece. Alternatively, for a leisurely experience with a blend of cultural visits, a recommendation would be to spend 7 days in Greece, including island exploration, and reserve 3 days for Italy.

If you want a profound cultural immersion and don't want to miss out on the Greek island experience, a 2-week trip would be better, as then you could fully enjoy both countries with immersive experiences without feeling rushed. Allocate 1 week in Italy and you could have a more relaxed time to explore its classic cities. Stay for 1 week in Greece to have the chance to explore its islands as well as the capital city.

Three weeks would certainly ensure a much deeper and richer itinerary. We recommend spending 2 weeks touring Italy from north to south, leaving 1 week for the best of Greece.

Tell us your intended travel duration, interests, group size, budget, and other requirements, and our travel consultant would tailor-make your itinerary based on these details. Feel free to contact us .

Here are two popular Italy and Greece itinerary suggestions: a time-smart 10-day itinerary and a classic 14-day one.

Italy and Greece in 10 Days

• Days 1–3: Athens (arrive and visit ancient remains and temples)
• Day 4–6: Rome (visit historical ruins and the Vatican)
• Days 7–10: Florence (explore Florence's arts, architecture, food and wine)

With a 10-day itinerary of Italy and Greece, you would visit the major cities in these two countries. We suggest putting more days in Italy for its most key destinations — Rome and Florence. As for Greece, you would have the opportunity to visit its capital city — Athens.

Athens is a city steeped in the rich tapestry of history, myth, and legend. Immerse yourself in the iconic Acropolis, a paramount hub of ancient cultural relics, where marvels like the Parthenon captivate the imagination. Don't miss the nearby Acropolis Museum, a must-visit complement to your exploration. Venture to Delphi, renowned for its temples and prophetic significance, and behold historic treasures such as the Temple of Apollo among its many renowned sites.

In Italy, you would have the chance to visit the Colosseum and other iconic attractions in Rome. In Florence, explore museums and art galleries showcasing masterpieces, enjoy a pizza and gelato making class, and gain insights into Italy's rustic charm by visiting a family-run winery.

This 10-day itinerary doesn't include a trip to a Greek island trip. If you are looking for a history and island vacation for a family tour or you prefer spending more time in Greece, you could see our  10-Day Italy and Greece Family Essence Tour

If you are seeking a balance between cultural immersion and the enchantment of Greek islands, you could check out the 14-day itinerary below.

If you need help planning your trip to Greece and Italy, feel free to contact us .

2) 14-Day Italy and Greece Itinerary

Week 1: Italy

• Days 1–3: Rome
• Days 4–5: Florence
• Days 6–7: Venice

Week 2: Greece

• Days 8–9: Athens
• Days 10–11: Santorini
• Days 12–14: Mykonos

In a 14-day itinerary, your time in Italy would be relatively relaxed, with some food tours or half a day or a day to explore the city on your own.

In Greece, besides the famous Santorini, you would have the chance to explore the other popular island — Mykonos. There, you could enjoy your free time exploring Mykonos Town by wandering through the narrow, winding streets. Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand, and try water sports. 

If you are interested in the island's history, you could also visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from the Cycladic civilization. 

You could also  contact us  to make adjustments based on your requirements.

The costs of travel in Italy and Greece are similar. They are relatively affordable destinations for Europe.

About 600 USD per person is the daily cost for a private Greece and Italy tour with a guaranteed hassle-free, quality service, and a first-rate experience.

The price would include airfares within/between Italy and Greece, 4- or 5-star hotels, attractions, guides, and transfers. Kids under 10 would get 30–50% off.

Italy and Greece enjoy similar weather conditions. They are located close to each other.

If you want the best weather with fewer crowds for Italy and Greece, May, early June, September, and October would be good months to travel there.

Late June, July, and August form the peak season for Greece and Italy. This period provides pleasant weather for a vacation to the Greek islands. If you are planning a trip during this period, booking at least 3 months in advance is recommended.

The winter season (except for around Christmas) is the offseason for a trip to Italy and Greece. You could enjoy good discounts, but rainfall should be expected. 

You could learn more about the weather and seasonal travel tips by reading Best Times to Visit Italy  and  Best Times to Visit Greece .

Considering the convenience of international flights, starting your journey in Italy or Greece would not make a big difference, as you could easily find international flights to both countries.

For an enhanced travel experience, we recommend commencing from Italy and concluding in Greece. This progression allows for a transition from Italy's rich cultural experiences to the island vibe and relaxation found in Greece.

Flying is the most popular and recommended way to travel between Italy and Greece. A flight takes about 2 hours.

Rome to Athens is the most common flight route. Venice also has some flights to Athens. There are no direct flights between the Greek islands and Italy. You'll need to get to Athens and then take a plane or ferry to the islands.

Our private tour service would manage all of the transportation in Italy and Greece and also the flights between Greece and Italy, all according to your cost and service requirements.

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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.

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Italy & Greece

4.6 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

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Feel the magic of Italy and Greece with a Mediterranean odyssey through Roman relics and sun-drenched vistas

There’s something comforting about arriving in Italy: Azure waves lapping at picturesque seaside towns, piazzas teeming with locals sipping aperitivi, and monuments that have witnessed thousands of years of history all come together to create a sense of timelessness. Linger over a limoncello and savor Italy’s lush Sorrento Peninsula and Isle of Capri before continuing to the ruins of Pompeii and the Eternal City—Rome. Your journey then winds through Greece, where temples and colossal amphitheaters still stand amidst modern metropolises. Extend your trip to Santorini and revel in the sun-splashed island’s iconic whitewashed buildings and pristine beaches.

Special departures of this itinerary

New Year's Eve

Your tour package includes

• 9 nights in handpicked hotels
• 9 breakfasts
• 4 dinners with beer or wine
• 6 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• Pompeii ruins
• Roman Forum
• Epidaurus & Mycenae

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

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Naples today.

Welcome to Italy! Travel to your hotel on the Sorrento Peninsula, which opens to the Bay of Naples and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Our recommendation for freshening up? Order an espresso con panna, served with a heaping dollop of fresh whipped cream. And take your time—Italians don’t usually take their coffee to go, so sidle up to the coffee bar and savor yours slowly.

Then, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner, served with beer or wine.

Join your local guide and sail across the Bay of Naples to the famed Isle of Capri. Known around the world as a playground for chic jet-setters, Capri’s dramatic coastline is dotted with colorful cliffside hotels and lavish villas. You’ll traverse crystalline waters by boat and spend time on the island before returning to the Sorrento Peninsula.

• Boat around the island and bask in the romance of Capri’s caves and grottoes (weather-dependent). You can admire the elaborate White Grotto and Faraglioni rocks as they jut out of the water.
• Stroll through the winding alleys of the village of Capri, lush with Mediterranean flora—palm trees, umbrella pines, and bright pink-and-purple bougainvillea.
• Take a funicular ride to Capri’s upper town and watch the island’s vistas unfurl below you.
• Explore the Gardens of Augustus—a botanical garden with an intimate setting, intoxicating blooms, and a dreamy view of the water.

End the day by adding an excursion to an agriturismo—or farm stay—where you’ll indulge in a four-course, farm-to-table meal, as well as a tour of its fertile grounds. Prefer to spend the time exploring on your own? Enjoy your free evening in the Sorrento region by tracking down the best limoncello.

Rustic Italy: Farmhouse Dinner & Wine Tasting

From $125 per person

En route to Rome, stop at Pompeii for a guided walking tour of the city’s ruins, frozen in time since the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The former port town lay buried under ash for 1,500 years before being rediscovered, and ongoing excavation continues to uncover remnants of everyday life before disaster struck.

• Discover how Roman citizens lived 2,000 years ago as you stroll through remarkably preserved temples, public baths, and amphitheaters.
• View the excavated ruins of Roman theaters, villas, temples, and baths.

Then, continue to Rome and sit down for dinner, served with beer or wine.

Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Romans on a guided tour of the Eternal City.

• Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Imperial Rome, where history unfolds around every corner.
• Experience the awe-inspiring Colosseum, a monumental amphitheater that reverberates with the roar of ancient spectacles. Walk in the footsteps of gladiators and feel the weight of history pressing down from all directions.
• Traverse the evocative ruins of the Forum, once the pulsating heart of Roman life. Listen for bygone echoes of parades and gripping trials as you explore the remnants of this marketplace of yore.
• Imagine the deafening roar of the crowds at Circus Maximus, where Romans raced chariots and gladiators faced off against each other.
• Pass the collapsed ruins of the once-sumptuous Baths of Caracalla, an integral part of Roman social life.

This evening, choose to get your hands dirty—with flour, that is—by adding an excursion to a pasta-making class. You’ll learn traditional techniques for preparing and rolling out fresh pasta before digging into the dishes you prepared.

Need a moment of respite? Use your free time this afternoon and evening to visit Aventine Hill, home to the peaceful Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and a view of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Pasta-Making Class & Dinner

From $119 per person

It’s your final full day in Rome. Whether you want to take it easy over a morning cappuccino or admire the exquisite art and architecture of the Galleria Borghese, use your free day at your leisure. You can descend into the eerie underground chambers of the Capuchin Crypt—also known as the Bone Chapel, the way it’s adorned with skeletal remains in a unique display of artistic macabre—or add an excursion to the sacred walls of Vatican City, where the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and countless masterpieces await.

Please note: On some departures, the optional Iconic Sights: Vatican City excursion may be moved to day 5.

Iconic Sights: Vatican City

Fly to Athens, Greece. Then, stop at the Corinth Canal as you travel to Nafplio. This narrow waterway connects the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf and was an important navigational route upon its opening in 1893. While it’s too narrow for today’s modern vessels, its steep limestone walls provide a scenic contrast to the aquamarine waters.

Romantic and slightly out of the way, Nafplio is a thriving seaside town with a rich history that exhibits Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. After settling into your hotel in Nafplio, join your fellow travelers this evening for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

Join your Tour Director on a walk through Nafplio’s charming Old Town: Take in Syntagma Square (alive with locals enjoying a coffee or a nightcap), quaint restaurants, and historical buildings around every turn. For a keepsake to take home, look for shops selling worry beads. Used for relaxation or stress relief across Greece, the city has a storied tradition of producing them.

Visit Greece’s archaeological wonderland of Epidaurus, famous for its amphitheater. Remarkably well preserved, it was constructed toward the latter part of the fourth century B.C. as a site for religious ceremonies. In the theater’s current incarnation, visitors can enjoy performances of Greek dramas, set against a backdrop of the surrounding valley and mountains.

Your guided tour continues in the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Mycenae. No visit to the eastern Peloponnese would be complete without a visit to the cradle of Mycenaean civilization, which peaked between 1400–1200 B.C. As you walk through the hillside citadel, you’ll come across the remains of homes, storefronts, ancient tombs, and Agamemnon’s Palace.

Nothing can prepare you for the sheer sense of awe you’ll feel when you come face-to-face with Athens, where ancient architecture and artifacts coexist with modern life.

Spend a free afternoon to relax and settle in, or opt into the excursion to Cape Sounion this afternoon, where the remains of the Temple of Poseidon—god of the sea—offer the perfect vantage point to take in panoramic views of the Aegean and its island chains.

Cape Sounion

From $75 per person

Meet up with your dedicated local guide, who will introduce you to the highlights of this bustling capital.

• Pass by the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely out of marble—the only such stadium in the world. 
• Continue to Syntagma Square, home to the neoclassical Greek Parliament building, and admire the plaza’s imposing marble steps, fountain, and lush shade trees.
• Reflect on the Arch of Hadrian, built to honor the Roman emperor, and imagine how its Pentelic marble stones were carted more than 11 miles from Mount Pentelikon in 131 A.D.
• View the remains of the sixth-century Temple of Zeus and gaze up at its 16 ornate Corinthian columns.
• Hop off your bus and walk through the Plaka. Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, this district is one of the oldest parts of Athens and is known as “the neighborhood of the gods” due to the dozens of monuments strewn throughout.
• Set off on a walking tour around the ancient Acropolis—site of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. You may have seen these enduring icons of antiquity in books and film, but now you’re stepping through the work of craftsmen who quarried and honed these marble blocks thousands of years ago.

Spend a free afternoon in Athens to explore on your own. Head back to the Plaka district, or wander through Anafiotika on the northeast slope of the Acropolis. The neighborhood dates to the 19th century and is chock-full of charming whitewashed cottages and vibrantly hued doors, the likes of which you might have seen—or will see soon—on Greece’s Cycladic islands.

Tonight, celebrate your trip with your group over a farewell dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Or, extend your stay to visit inimitable Santorini, where you’ll dive into white-and-cobalt-tinged postcard views of the iconic island. Walk through picturesque fishing villages, enjoy a cruise or local wine tasting (or both), and get your fill of just-caught seafood.

You’ve seen the photos—now get ready to star in them yourself. Board a ferry to Santorini today. Watch for the steep cliffs that plunge into the Aegean and the island’s famed caldera (the large depression formed by a volcanic eruption), dotted with whitewashed buildings.

Your guided tour of Santorini will take you from black sand beaches to jagged cliff-lined shores and back—a stark contrast to the island’s beloved whitewashed buildings and sprays of fuchsia bougainvillea vines.

• Visit the archaeological excavations at Akrotiri, a settlement buried in volcanic ash, where richly pigmented Bronze Age frescoes and other Minoan artifacts survived a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th century B.C.
• Ride to the top of Mount Profitis Ilias for a panorama of Santorini, neighboring island chains, and blue waters kissing the horizon.
• Stop in small, picturesque Pyrgos, where you’ll weave through the steep streets of this slightly off-the-beaten-path village.

Spend a free afternoon poking around shops and sampling local wine, or opt to join what’s sure to be an unforgettable excursion—a steal-your-breath-away catamaran cruise with views to match.

Santorini Caldera Cruise & Dinner

From $149 per person

Santorini’s nutrient-rich soil lends itself perfectly to growing wine grapes. Get to know the island’s unique vineyards during an excursion to a local winery, complete with a tasting and accompanying lunch.

Prefer to spend the day on your own? You can sample some traditional dishes—like moussaka (a hearty eggplant dish) or tomato fritters—then explore the unique black-pebbled shores and clear waters of Kamari Beach. End the day with a sunset stop at the lighthouse found on the southern tip of the island.

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 11 or 13, depending on the ferry schedule.

Greek Wine Tasting & Lunch

From $89 per person

Spend a final morning on Santorini before flying back to Athens.  

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members. 

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. And remember—it’s not arrivederci or adio, it’s see you later.

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

This was one of my favorite EF tours! Our wonderful tour director, Carla, recommended seeing Rome at night and that put a new perspective on everything! Our last meal in Greece was a sampling of all the different foods of Greece and was the best meal we had the whole trip! Delicious! The hotels ...

The trip was a memory of a life time. Carla the travel guide was great! Many sights were seen and we stayed at great hotels. One bus driver was texting while driving and when asked a question he said he didn’t like to socialize. My only downside to the trip. Otherwise I would recommend to travel wi...

Thank you for your review. We are happy to know yo...

This trip was very well planned. Our guide, Carla, was the best! The trip hit all the highlights a traveler would want in Italy and Greece. The on sight guides added to what Carla taught us. Mia, the guide at the Colosseum was amazing. . If you are contemplating going on this tour…DO IT

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This cozy hotel is located in the city center. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Piazza Tasso, Marameo Beach, and...

This contemporary hotel is located in Rome's Marconi district. Guests enjoy the rooftop pool, beautiful views of the city, and fitness room. Nearby yo...

This modern hotel is located in the town entrance of Nafplion. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, balconies, and air conditioning. Nearby, you’ll find Árgos, Ti...

This elegant hotel is located in the Metaxourgeio neighborhood of Athens. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the Acropolis, a fitness center, and a rooft...

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 ITG.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Naples 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 Naples, 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.

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:

• 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 one flight transfer
• About 3 hours of bus time daily

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day - this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Stone and marble walkways may be slippery even when dry.
• 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.
• 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, 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 round-trip ferry between Sorrento and Capri and a flight from Rome to Athens are 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 reece, 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 four 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.
• The cuisine of Southern Italy is often what diners think of when imagining Italian flavors—pasta with tomato sauces, olives and olive oil, zucchini, veal, and fish are all featured prominently on menus throughout the 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.

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Greece Or Italy: The Honest Comparison [2023] You Need!

T he question for many when trying to decide between Italy or Greece, is what separates these European holiday destinations from each other?

Yet while both nations have similar climates and are great coastal destinations, each has its own distinct histories, cultures, sights to visit, and cuisines that set them apart. All of which makes Greece and Italy quite different holidays.

For example, if beaches are your priority then Greece will be a better holiday choice than Italy. Greece has over 6000 islands, and the coastline and beaches are just unbeatable in Europe.

Italy has a lovey coastline too, but it’s perfect for tourists who love exploring the coast as well as cities. That’s because Italy’s urban centers are world-renowned for their art, culture, and exquisite buildings. 

But that’s just the beginning when it comes to how these two countries can deliver different holidays. However that’s where we can help!

We know both of these countries well, and so below is our honest comparison between Italy and Greece.

We compare their beaches, city, culture and more. Then we look at the sights to explore, the food you can try, what natural attractions you can see in each, as well some amazing towns and cities you should visit. All so you can make the right vacation decision!

A Quick Overview & Comparison

How do the beaches & landscape compare, how does the culture & cities compare, how does the cuisine compare.

• Which Is The Better Choice?

Both countries offer unique and exciting vacations, but which one is better depends on your priorities.

Where Greece really excels is on the coast, as it boasts over 6000 islands!

So if you’re looking for a holiday where beaches are the priority, then Greece will likely be the better choice. Greek beaches are much better than Italian ones in our opinion, plus the weather and temperature is often more favourable for swimming and sunbathing.

In fact the year-round temperature and weather in Greece tends to make it a better location for a winter holiday than Italy, as we’ve written about before.

Additionally, Greek islands often have a real rustic regional charm to them. These islands have incredibly rich histories too, and countless centuries-old architecture some of which stretches back to Ancient Greece and beyond!

For history and culture, very few places on earth can rival Greece.

However Italy is one of those countries that does give Greece a run for its money in the history and culture department.

This nation has a rich history and architectural gems from the Roman Empire are everywhere. Whilst cosmopolitan cities like Milan, Rome, Florence, and Venice are famous for their galleries, museums, and beauty.

In fact, when it comes to sightseeing Italy has it all. Every city and region of the country is packed with things to do and see. A trip to Rome, for example, can easily last a week and you still wouldn’t be bored!

The food scene is also phenomenal in Italy, so if cuisine is top of your holiday list then Italy should be your choice. The transport system is also very good, so traveling around the country is relatively easy.

In essence Italy is perfect for urban tourism, cities, art and food lovers, while Greece is probably better if you’re looking for beaches and nature.

That’s not to say Italy doesn’t have some stunning natural scenery of course. The Dolomites mountain range, and the island of Sardinia , are both picture perfect.

However the reality remains that Greek cities and regions tend to have far less to do than their Italian counterparts, and the transport system is not as efficient.

But Greece does win this battle of nations when it comes to cost. We’ve found that Greece tends to be cheaper than Italy for a vacation.

For us, Greece is the better holiday destination if you’re looking for relaxation, time spent outdoors, and an island hopping adventure. Italy should be your spot for cities, food and art.

Below we look at some of the natural sights you will come across in Greece and Italy, as well as comparing their cuisines and cities. By doing so, we hope you will gain an even greater insight into which one of these countries suits you best.

Greece : The Beaches & Landscape

With so many islands, it will come as little surprise to hear that Greece is packed with natural wonders.

The Ionian archipelago is a popular destination for tourists, and one of the best places to see nature’s greatest work. Visit the Melissani Lake Cave on Kefalonia for an other-worldly experience. Situated 20 meters underground, you can explore this magical cave by rowing boat.

The island of Zakynthos has some of Greece’s best beaches, and is a popular destination because of that.

Also named Zante , this island has a lively nightlife scene so is perfect for tourists who want to sunbathe and swim in the day, but dance and drink at night. In fact Greece has some great party spots, like Zante and Mykonos , so if you’re looking for fun in the sun then Greece is a great choice.

Zante is also home to the Blue Caves, a series of underground waterways that wind their way into the coastline.

Of course Greece is packed with many stunning islands, and one of the best things about this country is the ability to island hop and discover your own favourite.

One of ours is Milos , which is where the Venus de Milo was found! This gorgeous little volcanic island has dozens of beaches, breathtaking turquoise waters, and a friendly local population.

Mainland Greece also has some spectacular scenery that has to be explored. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora in central Greece is one such place that is well worth visiting.

The atmospheric huge rock formations jut out of the ancient landscape there, and sitting on top are centuries-old monasteries. Those monasteries used to be reached by ladders, but can now be reached by foot via stairs. It’s a place which transports you back in time.

In fact mainland Greece is full of fantastic hiking trails – many long distance – that take you between ancient villages that have existed for generations.

One of our favourites is the Menalon Trail , a 45 mile hike in south Greece that takes you between the picturesque mountain villages of Stemnitsa and Lagkadia.

Italy : The Beaches & Landscape

It’s not all cities and museums in Italy, and the north in particular has some fantastic beaches.

The capital of seaside tourism in north Italy is Rimini on the Adriatic coast. It’s famous for its fine sandy beaches and promenade of bars, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs.

Northern Italy also happens to have some of Europe’s most iconic and beautiful lakes. The stunning Como , Garda , Iseo and the highly underrated Orta lakes are all within easy traveling distance from Milan.

Further north are the hiking and winter sport paradises of the Italian Alps and the Dolomites – possibly Europe’s most easily recognisable mountain range.

The island of Sicily in the south has an attractive climate, historic cities such as Palermo and Catania, miles of fine sandy beaches, vineyards, Greek temples, Roman sites, and gorgeous baroque towns.

Whilst back on the mainland of Southern Italy is Cinque Terre (photo below) – the postcard-perfect collection of ancient villages on the Liguria coastline.

This National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site receives 2.4 million visitors a year. Why? It’s gorgeous! From north to south the villages are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, each with unique character and superb sea views. This is mostly a place for beaches, outdoor activities, and water sports.

Again, it’s the unique towns and cities of Italy that tend to set it apart from other European nations.

The rocky mountainside of Aspromonte National Park in Calabria has the abandoned ghost town of Pentedattilo and a wild untouched landscape that is well worth visiting too.

Stepping away from package holiday resorts and into the cities and towns of Greece and Italy will give you a richer, cultural experience.

Greece: Culture & Cities

Greece may edge the battle with Italy when it comes to natural landscapes thanks to its many islands, but it also excels when it comes to towns and cities with the ‘wow’ factor.

One of the islands which has that in abundance is Santorini .

The two biggest towns There, Fira and Oia, hang on to the cliff-face of this volcanic island, and the buildings within them – whitewashed and often with blue-domed roofs – stand strikingly against the backdrop.

It’s a must-visit place in Greece, but also one of the most popular places throughout the country being visited by around two million tourists per year.

The historic and ancient capital of Athens is well worth a night or two, and is home to iconic buildings such as the 5th century BC Acropolis and Parthenon . The museum at the Acropolis is full of artefacts from Ancient Greece and a must for any history buff.

Situated beside the Acropolis is our favorite area of Athens – Plaka . The quaint streets in this neighbourhood wind their way up hilly slopes and are adorned with flower pots and tiny independent shops selling jewellery and clothes.

With family-run taverns and boutique coffee shops, this is one of the best places in Athens – and Greece – to grab a bite to eat and watch the world go by.

However the title of Greece’s most picturesque town could go to Agios Nikolaos – a little port settlement on the island of Crete.

Surrounded by the sea on three sides, this town has several waterfronts which have a great selection of shopping and dining opportunities. The infamous ‘leper island’ of Spinalonga – which was in use up to 1957 as a quarantine center – is close by and can be visited from the town.

Italy : Culture & Cities

City breaks to Italy are popular throughout Europe due to the cosmopolitan feel, and the perfect mix between old and modern.

But what really separates Italian cities from elsewhere in Europe is that they’re bursting at the seams with culture and you can easily spend a week or two in many Italian cities without getting bored – that’s certainly not the case in Greece.

Bologna is a gorgeous medieval city in North Italy that has thrived with a steady flow of students that has kept this city a vibrant place to visit.

Food lovers can delight in the city’s food festivals like Eataly and a slew of food markets where you can learn more about cuisine. This is also an excellent choice for art, music and Italian film enthusiasts who are all catered for inside Bologna’s galleries and museums.

Face the tourists and head to Venice , but take your time strolling its hidden side streets, canals, piazzas and local shops and cafes. This may just be the world’s most beautiful city.

You can discover a treasure trove of history in Venice’s museums, visit St Mark’s Cathedral and the city’s ornate churches, the exquisite old theatre Teatro La Fenice and the sprawling art museum Gallerie dell ’Accademia . Or take a boat to see the colorful island of Burano .

In the heel of Italy’s boot is the region of Puglia which is home to the charming city of Lecce .

Its streets are perfect for wandering to discover hidden piazzas, beautifully detailed buildings and churches including the baroque Santa Croce .

The city’s main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo , the site of a Roman amphitheater. And in the evening join in with the local tradition of strolling down the evening passeggiata before dinner. Day trips from Leece include the lovely seaside towns of Otranto and Gallipoli for moreish local flavors.

The cosmopolitan city of Milan is not known for being incredibly ‘Italian’ as it lacks the cobbled streets and ochre buildings that Italy is best known for. However it has a wealth of culture to discover and is great for shopping – another aspect where Italy excels over Greece.

The main sights include the majestic Sforza Castle , the incredibly detailed Duomo where you can climb up onto the roof, and the ornate Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a shopping center with beautiful mosaics and designer stores.

Outside of this, the canal area offers chic eateries, all-you-can-eat sushi, street art galore and vintage shops plus bars to enjoy the city’s lively aperitif culture. 

The traditional food of Italy and Greece is a Mediterranean cocktail of the various civilizations that have inhabited these nations. 

And both are popular cuisines around the world for a reason. So which country you prefer may also come down to personal preferences.

Greece: The Food

Like many Mediterranean cuisines, Greek food involves a lot of fresh vegetables, olive oil, grains, and a good dose of wine!

One of the most famous food exports from Greece is moussaka . This mincemeat and potato or eggplant dish is served everywhere in the country. It’s almost always guaranteed to be excellent in any family-run taverna.

Greece is famous for its dips, such as tzatziki – which is made up of garlic, yoghurt and cucumber – and fava , which is made from split peas.

To wash everything down, you must try Greece’s national drink, Ouzo . This strong liquor is made from aniseed, and is usually served with cold water which turns the clear drink a cloudy white.

Italy: The Food

The eight provinces of Northern Italy all offer unique culinary traditions, influenced by neighboring countries such as France, Austria, and Slovenia. That helps to make Italy one of the best places in Europe for food lovers.

In the Aosta Valley try Fontina cheese , with its milky and sweet flavors. In Emilia-Romagna you’ll come across piadini sandwiches , a flatbread stuffed with cheeses, hams, or salad.

Of course, the north is most famous for prosciutto di Parma (from Parma); balsamic vinegar (from Modena and Reggio); and Parmigiano Reggiano .

Whilst in Venice you should sample Risotto al Neri di Seppi – a risotto flavored with cuttlefish and colored with its black ink.

South Italy is of course the birthplace of pizza! Go to Naples for an authentic classic Margherita pizza and fried pizza calzone style.

The Amalfi coast offers fresh seafood while you sip your Limoncello lemon liqueur – which also tastes good in cake form!

Whilst on Sicily sample Nero d’Avola red wine, a native grape to the island. Just don’t leave without trying the wonderful couscous of Trapani or the pastries of Noto.

Simply put, that makes Italy one of the best destinations on the globe for foodies.

Greece Or Italy: Which is Better?

Which country is the better destination depends entirely on what you want from your vacation.

If beaches are your priority then Greece will be a better holiday choice than Italy. Greece has over 6000 islands, and the coastline is spectacular. It also has great hiking opportunities, and tends to be cheaper than Italy too.

However Italy is perfect for tourists who love exploring cities, and its urban centers are world-renowned for their art, culture, and exquisite buildings.

The opportunities for sightseeing are probably greater in Italy, and the food and shopping scene is better than Greece as well.

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13 things to know before you go to Greece and the Greek Islands

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

These top planning tips can help you prep for a trip to Greece, from health and safety to local etiquette © EMS-FORSTER-PRODUCTIONS / Getty Images

Get out your bucket list; it’s time to cross off a major line item: Greece . 

The fabled land remains tops for culture , food, outdoor travel, art and, of course, beaches and islands . As part of the border-free Schengen Area, it’s also incredibly easy to visit for many travelers worldwide. From advance booking to local etiquette – and health and safety issues when you're there – here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Greece.

1. Choose your season wisely

Your experience in Greece will be wildly different depending on when you visit . Summer is tops for action, family fun, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, but prices are at their highest and pre-booking is necessary for everything since it’s all so popular.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are a delight – prices are lower, and rooms and resources are more readily available. Winter offers a moody and budget-friendly retreat, great for walking, hiking and sedate travels where you will often be the only visitor around. Bear in mind that some businesses will shut down completely during the low season.

2. Prioritize your wishlist and make a plan

Do you want a grand tour, taking in the not-to-be-missed highlights all over Greece, or would you prefer to focus your time on exploring your favorite islands  or regions, like the Peloponnese ?

The best way to choose from the dizzying array of options on offer is to focus on what is important to you – relaxing on beautiful beaches, learning more about Greece's fascinating history and culture , museums and archaeology, off-the-beaten-track wildlife, or partying until dawn – and plan accordingly.

3. Find the perfect island or region for you

Greece merits multiple trips as every island offers something different , and each of its regions is equally dazzling – you're never going to see everything on your first visit, and you'll ruin your trip if you pressure yourself to do just that. Also, don’t be fooled that the biggies are the only islands worthy of your attention. Though Mykonos , Santorini and the major names have plenty to offer, lesser-known islands (there are hundreds!) like Amorgos or Kythira are also a delight. They've also got the added bonus of smaller crowds and lower prices if that's a key consideration for you.

4. Athens isn't the only gateway to Greece

In many cases, you will find it useful to transit in or out of Greece via Athens , as its airport has connections with numerous international destinations, and the city itself is a gem . However, there are other international airports around the Greek mainland (such as in Thessaloniki ) and on some major islands (such as Mykonos , Santorini  and  Corfu ).

If you need any internal flights to get to your destination of choice, it's worth checking the price of these individually. Due to government subsidies, it can work out significantly cheaper to book each part of your Greek itinerary separately from your international flights.

5. Book everything in advance during peak season

In peak season , prices are high, and demand for car hire, accommodations and ferry tickets is even higher – this is not the time for ad hoc bookings on the fly. Greece is an incredibly popular summer destination, and the best options get snapped up well in advance.

6. Roads in Greece are for confident drivers

No one who has traveled on Greece’s roads will be surprised to hear that the country’s road fatality rate is one of the highest in Europe. Overtaking is listed as the greatest cause of accidents. Heart-stopping moments aside, your own car is a great way to explore off the beaten track if you are confident in your driving and keep a few key points in mind.

• The road network has improved enormously in recent years; many roads marked as dirt tracks on older maps have now been sealed, and a lot of the islands have very little traffic.
• There are regular (if costly) car-ferry services to almost all islands.
• Greece is not the best place to initiate yourself into motorcycling. If you're not confident on a motorbike, it may be best to park this option until you have more experience.
• All the big multinational car-rental companies are represented in Athens, and most have branches in major towns and popular tourist destinations. The majority of islands have at least one outlet.

7. Greece is not very wheelchair-friendly beyond Athens

Access for travelers with disabilities has improved somewhat in recent years, but the majority of accessible sights, hotels and restaurants tend to be located in Athens. While improvements are on the horizon for beach access,  much of the rest of Greece remains inaccessible to wheelchairs, and the abundance of stones, marble, slippery cobbles and stepped alleys create frustrating barriers for those with mobility issues. People who have visual or hearing impairments are also rarely catered for.

Careful planning before you go can make a world of difference. There are specific resources online that provide links to local articles, resorts and tour groups catering to tourists with physical disabilities.

8. Pack the right kinds of clothing

Athenians are well-dressed, and the younger crowd is trendy, so keep your smart clothes for the urban catwalk of clubs and bars. Nevertheless, in Athens and other metropolises such as Rhodes , Thessaloniki and Iraklio , everyday attire such as shorts or jeans and casual tops are just fine.

Bars or fashionable restaurants require more effort – the scene is stylish rather than dressy. Think tops and trousers rather than T-shirts and cut-offs. In out-of-the-way places, you can wear casual clothing, and in summer, the heat will make you want to wear the least amount of fabric you can get away with – bring quick-drying tank tops and cool dresses.

Sturdy walking shoes are a must for the cobbled roads, and proper hiking boots are key if you're exploring the countryside on foot . It's respectful to cover up before entering churches.

9. Learn some basic Greek phrases

Greek is a tough language to learn thoroughly, but mastering a few basic greetings and niceties will make a world of difference in how Greek speakers receive you. In touristed areas, many people speak English, so rest assured that you can get by as long as you know some key phrases.

10. Carry cash and don't rely on cards or ATMs

As part of the EU, Greece uses the euro. In restaurants, a service charge is normally included in the bill, and while a tip is not expected (as it is in North America), it is always appreciated. Taxi drivers normally expect you to round up the fare, while bellhops who help you carry your luggage to your hotel room or stewards on ferries who take you to your cabin normally expect a small gratuity of between €1 and €3.

ATMs are found in every town large enough to support a bank and in almost all the tourist areas. Be aware that ATMs on the islands can lose their connection for a day or two at a time, making it impossible for anyone (locals included) to withdraw money. It’s useful to keep some backup cash just in case this happens during your visit.

Credit cards are now an accepted part of the commercial scene in Greece, although they’re often not accepted on many of the smaller islands or in small villages. Don't rely on your cards alone, and check in advance when dining or drinking if it's your only option.

11. Make sure you have good travel insurance

Although medical training is of a high standard in Greece, the public health service is underfunded. Hospitals can be overcrowded, and relatives are expected to bring in food for the patient – often a problem for solo travelers. Conditions and treatment are much better in private hospitals, which are expensive. All this means that a comprehensive travel insurance policy is essential.

There is at least one doctor on every island, and larger islands have hospitals. Pharmacies can dispense medicines that are available only on prescription in most European countries. If the situation isn't critical, it's often best to consult a pharmacist first for minor ailments.

12. Stay hydrated and remember how powerful the sun can be

Tap water isn't safe to drink on many islands – if in doubt, ask. Keeping a supply of bottled water to hand is essential for hydration as well as safety; many tourists underestimate how hot it can get in Greece, and heatstroke and serious sunburn are common on beaches with little shade.

Break up your sun-drenched siestas with time in the shade getting hydrated, and pack plenty of high-factor sunscreen. Mosquitos are an irritant rather than a danger – packing insect repellant is recommended.

13. Pickpocketing and other petty crime is common in busy places

The major risks of theft in Greece are pickpockets in the large cities and theft of belongings when lounging on busy, popular beaches (leave passports behind in hotel safes). Never leave your belongings unattended, and don't leave your bags hanging from the back of your seat where you can't keep an eye on them. 

The tourist police work in cooperation with the regular Greek police. Each tourist police office has at least one member of staff who speaks English. If you need to report a theft or loss of passport, go to the tourist police first, and they will act as interpreters between you and the regular police.

Some unscrupulous taxi drivers will try to charge you extortionate rates from the airports to the city centers. Always make sure the meter is running or pre-negotiate and agree on the price before you get in.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated March 2024

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 Exploring highlights, important landmarks, ancient sites, beautiful cities and islands in 3 weeks,

Covering Rome, Florence and, Venice in Italy Dubrovnik, MonteNegro, Split, Hvar and Plitvice Lakes. Athens, Mykonos and, Santorini in Greece

• Centrally located hotels
• Friendly English speaking personnel
• All airport and ferry port transfers included
• Ferry tickets and return flights included
• All the tours mentioned on the itinerary
• Customization and options to extend and add on more sites and islands available
• Small groups 8 guests or less per group, (private options available)

Daily tour program

Sunday - Day 1 - Arrival in Rome

BENVENUTO! Welcome to Italy!

We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After checking into your hotel, you will have the rest of the day free to rest and explore Rome on your own.

Overnight in Rome.

- Monday - Day 2 - Rome - (B)

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel for your comprehensive tour to visit the Vatican and its museums, as well as the Sistine Chapel the home of Michelangelo's Last Judgment.

After that, we will continue to visit St. Peters Square and Basilica, and will also visit the Coliseum and the Roman Forum.

Overnight in Rome -

- Tuesday - Day 3 – Rome – (B)

Breakfast at the hotel – Enjoy the day at leisure.

Optional full-day tour to Pompeii sites available,  contact us if interested >>>>>

- Wednesday - Day 4 - Rome to Florence - (B)

In the morning, we will meet you at your hotel and provide a transfer to the Train station and depart from Rome on a 1-hour 30-minute train ride to Florence.

Upon arrival, you will be met at the train station and transferred to your hotel.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

NOTE: optional Afternoon tour to Tuscany and wine tasting tour available - contact us if interested.

Overnight in Florence.

- Thursday - Day 5 - Florence - (B)

Breakfast at the hotel

Meet up with your guide and enjoy the rest of the touring Florence

Start with the introductory walking tour of the Historic center Piazza Santa Croce and Piazza Della Signoria,

Palazzo Vecchio

Visit Academia Gallery (Skip the line tickets)

Florence is famous for its history. Florence is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance and has been called the Athens of the Middle Age.

It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982.

Due to Florence's artistic and architectural heritage, it has been ranked by Forbes as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and the city is noted for its history, culture, Renaissance art and architecture and monuments.

- Friday - Day 6 - Florence to Venice- (B)

In the morning, we will meet you at your hotel and provide a transfer to the train station and depart from Florence on a 2-hour 30-minute train ride to Venice.

After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Venice.

- Saturday - Day 7 – Exploring Venice – (B)

Enjoy a full-day tour of Venice.

See the best of Venice in a day on a combo tour that caps a guided walk with a cruise along the bustling Grand Canal.

Hear the history of St Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge from a local guide, and visit St Mark’s Basilica

Discover the tucked-away treasures of Venice’s backstreet and charming canals, and then finish on a high note: a water taxi cruise on the Grand Canal.

Highlights Three-hour combined walking and boat tour of Venice.

St Mark's Basilica See Campo Santa Maria Formosa, the home of Marco Polo and the Rialto Bridge.

Explore small back streets, narrow passageways, and piazzas, as you learn about historical Venice from your guide.

After the tour, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

- Sunday - Day 8 - Venice to Dubrovnik - (B)

Breakfast at the hotel, met up at the hotel and transfer to Venice Airport and put you  on a flight to Dubrovnik

We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

After check-in,  you will have the afternoon free to rest and explore Dubrovnik on your own.

Overnight in Dubrovnik.

- Monday - Day 9 - Dubrovnik - (B)

Breakfast at the hotel.

Meet up with the tour, and enjoy Panoramic driving and then walking tour of the city.

Drive to panorama sight (slopes of Srdj mountain),  get amazing views, lots of photo opportunities,  then return to old city and enjoy an introductory walking tour from your guide, Visit the The Assumption Cathedral, then transfer back to your hotel or you can continue to enjoy rest day of the exploring Dubrovnik at your own pace.

 - Tuesday - Day 10 - Dubrovnik - (B)

- Breakfast at the hotel, free day at leisure.

Optional day trip to Korcula available,  ( contact us if interested)

- Wednesday - Day 11 – Dubrovnik – Montenegro – Dubrovnik – (B)

Breakfast at the hotel  (the local provider will inform meeting time)

Meet up with the group and enjoy a full-day tour to Kotor, Montenegro

Depart from Dubrovnik on an enjoyable scenic drive south,

Upon arrival enjoy exploring Kotor and medieval fishing villages,

Walls surrounding the city on the sea boasts attractive beaches and enjoy exploring more of the old part of the town.

After the tour will return to Dubrovnik.

Overnight stay.

– Thursday - Day 12 – Dubrovnik to Split - (B)

meet up with the driver and depart from Dubrovnik on a scenic drive to Split

upon arrival,  after check-in,  the rest of the day at rest and leisure.

Overnight in Split.

– Friday - Day 13 – Split - Plitvice Lakes - Split – (B)

Enjoy visiting the UNESCO-listed natural wonders of the Plitvice Lakes with their magnificent scenery, enjoy boat cruise and ride the scenic tram along the lake shores.

Plitviče Lakes known for its 16 terraced lakes joining by waterfalls and limestone canyons. Scenic hiking trails along and across the creeks, by electric powered boat.

After visiting,  we will return to Split.

– Saturday - Day 14 – Split – Blue Caves - Hvar - Split - (B)

Breakfast at the hotel  - Meet up with the group guided tour to Blue Caves and Island hopping and visiting Hvar.

Best of the Dalmatian coast with this full-day tour,

Visit five islands, two caves

Visit Blue and Green Caves; explore beautiful Stiniva beach with a swimming stop at the Blue Lagoon.

Then onto Devil's islands and Hvar town.

Visit Hvar with its 13th-century walls, a hilltop fortress, and the main square anchored by the

Renaissance-era Hvar Cathedral. After the visit and free time,  return to the hotel.

- Sunday - Day 15 - Departure from Split to Athens - (B)

Breakfast at the hotel ---

Meet up in the lobby and will provide a transfer to Split Airport.

Flight to Athens

KALOS ORISATE! Welcome to Greece!

We will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After check in to the hotel,

you will have the afternoon free to rest and explore Athens on your own.

Overnight in Athens.

- Monday  - Day 16 - Athens - (B)

Meet up at the lobby of your hotel ( meeting time to be determined)

Will start with a panoramic driving tour of Athens, and then a walking tour, going inside the Acropolis, Parthenon, and other important ancient sites and monuments, The last place of the tour will be the new Acropolis Museum where you will see the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis and every artifact found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece.

After the tour,  we can take you back to your hotel

or we can drop you at the Plaka district if you like to wander and explore at your own pace.

- Tuesday - Day 17 - Athens to Mykonos Island - (B)

Very early in the morning, we will meet you at your Athens hotel take you to Piraeus ferry port. Depart from Athens on a ferry ride to Mykonos Island.

Upon arrival, you will be met at the harbor and transferred to your hotel.

After checking in the hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Mykonos.

- Wednesday - Day 18 - Delos Day trip - Overnight in Mykonos -  (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. 10:00 am Meet up at the harbor,  after a scenic 45 minute boat ride, enjoy a 4 hour to explore the sacred island of Delos,  aka the birthplace famous Apollo and Artemis

See the famous terrace of the Lions, enjoy a short and easy hike to Mount Kynthos....... 45 minute boat ride back to Mykonos and enjoy rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

- Thursday - Day 19 - Mykonos to Santorini - (B)

In the morning, Depart from Mykonos on a scenic ferry ride to Santorini Island.

After arrival, you will check-in at your hotel.

After check-in, you will have a free day to relax and explore on your own.

Santorini is one of those iconic places that will be permanently etched in your mind. Everywhere you turn is a photo opportunity. Essentially, the island is what remains of an enormous volcanic eruption, which destroyed the earliest settlements on what was formerly a single island. The aftermath of the explosion created what you see today, a caldera. All of the whitewashed, charming houses cling to the high cliffs of the rim, while the deep blue Aegean Sea wraps around the geological masterpiece, hundreds of feet below. Its spectacular physical beauty, along with its lively nightlife, your Santorini visit will be unforgettable.

Optional Oia Sunset tour available (Contact us if interested)

Overnight in Santorini.

- Friday - Day 20 - Exploring Santorini - (B)

Enjoy a boat trip to Volcano -   (Meeting time to be determined)

Meet up at your hotel, depart on a scenic sail to Volcano,

Upon arrival have free time to explore and hike to the top of the volcano and have a glance on the active parts, lots of fantastic photo opportunities of the volcano and from Volcano to the different angles of Magnificent Santorini Island.

Get back to the boat for a short sail to hot Springs (Palea Kameni) Enjoy swimming, then onto Thirassia where you can eat, relax or swim and visit the traditional village of Manola.

After that, sail to back to the Island and enjoy a quick stop at Armeni, then back to Athinios port.

Tour finish time will be around 17:30 pm.

Enjoy the rest of the day and evening at leisure

- Saturday - Day 21 - Santorini to Athens then final departure   - (B)

In the morning we will provide a transfer to Santorini Airport for your departure to Athens,

upon arrival in Athens walk to the international departures, for your outbound flight

Program ends

Total cost:  $____________________

Rates are subject to change depending on travel seasons,

Please contact us with your travel dates to get an accurate quote.

Early booking discounts available

Price includes

* All hotels (Superior class centrally located hotels)

* All land transfers in comfortable vehicles

* Train tickets from Rome to Florence

* Train tickets from Florence to Venice

* Flight tickets from Venice to Dubrovnik * Flight tickets from Split to Athens

* Ferry tickets from Athens to Mykonos

* Ferry tickets from Mykonos to Santorini

* Flight tickets from Santorini to Athens

* All meals mentioned in the itinerary (B-breakfast, L-lunch & D-dinner)

* English-speaking tour guides

* Skip the line Admissions to sites during the tours

* All taxes and service charges

* International flight tickets to Rome and from Athens onto your next destination

* Optional tours listed on the itinerary - on Days 3, 4, 11 and 12

* Travel insurance (Optional)

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Taking the Ferry From Italy to Greece

Greece and Croatia

The most common way to travel between Italy and Greece is by ferry. There are several Italian ports from which you can choose to take a ferry to Greece, Croatia, and other Mediterranean destinations. Following the introductions to these ports, you'll find a list of ferry booking sites that you can use to check schedules and book your trip.

Not all ferries run every day of the week, so be sure to check the schedules carefully. Most ferries have a restaurant and bar, but you can take your own food and drink on board to save money.

Brindisi is probably the Italian port most commonly associated with taking a ferry to Greece and has the most options. Frequent ferries leave Brindisi for Corfu, Kefalonia, Igoumenitsa, and Patras. It's possible to get between Brindisi and Corfu (the closest Greek port) in as little as six and a half hours. Departure times range from 11:00 a.m. to 23:00 (11 p.m.).

Brindisi, in the heel of the boot, is the most southern Italian ferry port. See Puglia map for location.

From Bari (southern Italy), you can take a ferry to Corfu, Igoumenitsa, and Patras in Greece and Dubrovnik, Split, and other ports in Croatia as well as to Albania. Most ferries leave in the evening and have cabins for sleeping, a bar, and sometimes a restaurant.

The fastest ferries travel between Bari and Corfu in about eight hours. Bari's ferry port is near the interesting historic center, Centro Storico , an excellent place to do some exploring before your departure. Near the port, try Osteria al Gambero if you have time for a meal.

If you're in central Italy (Marche region), Ancona may be the most convenient Italian port. From Ancona, ferries go to Igoumenitsa (taking 15 to 20 hours) and Patras (taking 20 to 23 hours) in Greece. Ferries also go to several ports in Croatia.

From Venice , you can take a ferry directly to Corfu, Igoumenitsa, or Patras. Taking a ferry from Venice is a nice alternative if you want to visit Venice. Ferries usually leave Venice in the evening and take close to 24 hours (or longer to Patras).

If you arrive in Venice by bus to take the ferry, there is usually a shuttle service between Venice's bus terminal and the ferry terminal. If you're already in Venice, you'll need to take a Vaporetto (water bus).

Websites for Ferries

It's a good idea to book your ferry ahead, especially during high season and if you want a cabin or plan to take your car. Sometimes it's possible to buy your ticket at the port on the day of departure. Some overnight ferries allow passengers to sleep on deck, but some require you to book a seat or bed. Ferries usually start boarding two hours before departure but check the ferry company information to be sure.

Here are websites where you can check schedules and buy tickets:

• Viamare , all ports
• Superfast Ferries , from Ancona and Bari
• Direct Ferries , a UK booking site
• Greece Ferries

Flying to Athens, Greece

If your goal is to get to Athens or any of the Greek islands, it's usually easier and quicker to fly directly to Athens. Some of the budget airlines offer relatively inexpensive fares from many Italian cities.

How to Travel from Venice to Athens by Plane, Ferry, and Cruise

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

Crete Maps and Travel Guide

Don't Make These 8 Common Tourist Mistakes in Greece

'Mamma Mia!' Filming Locations: The Complete Guide

Guide to Marco Polo Airport in Venice

Mediterranean Cruise Maps

10 Budget Travel Tips for Visiting Venice

Planning a Honeymoon in Greece: The Complete Guide

How to Take the Catalina Island Ferry

Burano: Planning Your Trip

How to Get From Malaga to Tangier by Bus, Plane, Car, and Ferry

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

Venice, Italy Guide: Planning Your Trip

Top 18 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

The Most Beautiful Castles in Italy

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ROME – AMALFI – SANTORINI – ATHENS Embark on a 12-days romantic honeymoon in Italy and Greece. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Amalfi and the epic grandeur of Rome.

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Italy & Greece

Empires of the mediterranean.

Travel to Italy and Greece this summer—where the pillars of Western civilization were built—and dive into the histories of their ancient societies, adventure through their dramatic landscapes, and immerse yourself in the contemporary culture of vibrant cities, towns, and coastal villages. Experience the living legacy of the Greek and Roman Empires against a backdrop of magnificent temples, rich mythology, and stunning seascapes.

This itinerary represents our best projection of the group’s schedule. However, we may implement changes designed to improve the quality of the program.

Meet your fellow high school student travelers and one or more of your program leaders in New York, and fly together to Naples, Italy. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Begin your program by heading to Pompeii and Herculaneum, cities that were blanketed by thick layers of scorching ash and volcanic mud when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. Get to know your peers and program leaders during an in-depth group orientation. Step into the past in palaces still adorned with original frescoes, and see the haunting figures of townspeople frozen in time. From our base in the small city of Salerno, travel by hydrofoil to Capri and Amalfi, and explore the area’s extraordinary scenery. Hike up to the top of Mount Vesuvius and take in the views of the sprawling Italian coastline below. Take a refreshing swim from the rocky shoreline, make homemade pizza with a local chef, and practice Italian in seaside shops.

Travel by train to Rome and explore the streets and alleyways of this vibrant city with your group, finding hidden parks and ruins. Peer into the gaping Bocca della Verità, a sculpted mouth, which according to legend will bite off the hand of anyone who doesn't tell the truth. Interact with street performers and local shopkeepers, sample delicious gelato near the Spanish Steps, and take in the contemporary music scene in one of Rome's many historic piazzas.

Fly to Athens and spend three days exploring the Acropolis and Parthenon, the ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum. Visit iconic works of art at the National Gallery and learn the stories of their excavation. Experience the modern bustling street life, markets, and cuisine, and take a tour of the city’s best contemporary street art.

This small, beautiful city is set on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese in the shadow of a cliff-top castle. From our hotel in the old city, follow small pedestrian streets to a tiny beach, get to know the locals, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Argos. On day trips, discover the legendary home of Agamemnon at Mycenae; view one of the world's best-preserved Greek theaters at Epidaurus and prepare your own theatrical performance; and learn the basics of traditional Greek dance. Enjoy a farewell dinner of Greek specialties at a family-run restaurant with live music, and tell fireside stories under the stars.

Fly from Athens, Greece, to New York with your group and a leader, then continue on to your final destination. To learn more about how we organize travel, click here.

Meet some of our featured leaders. Please note that these may not be your leaders for the program. 

Salerno is our jumping off point to the ruins of Pompeii and the island of Capri. Rome, Italy’s capital city, is a busy center of commerce, tourism, and government, home to many historical, literary, and cultural sites, as well as a lively food, art, fashion, and entertainment scene. In Greece, we begin in Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities, which provides ample opportunities to explore modern life and collections of Greek antiquity. Our final destination, Náfplio is a seaport town on the Peloponnesian Peninsula jutting into the Gulf of Argos, close to the island of Hydra.

Italian and Greek are the official languages of Italy and Greece, respectively.

Summer weather in Italy and Greece is generally hot. Average daytime temperatures range from 80–90°F (27–32°C), while average nighttime temperatures range from 70–80°F (21–27°C).

Italian cuisine is known for its diverse regional flavors, incorporating fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and rich sauces, with popular dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto. Greek cuisine, on the other hand, embraces the Mediterranean diet with an emphasis on olive oil, fresh seafood, tangy feta cheese, vibrant vegetables, and traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita.

What to Expect

Review specific program expectations here. For more general information:

To learn more about our Exploration programs click here.

Pursue an independent project and explore an aspect of local culture of particular interest to you—evoke the classical past by photographing the ruins of the Roman Forum, sketch the Parthenon or the Colosseum as they might have appeared thousands of years ago, or create a podcast with interviews of archaeologists working at Pompeii.

This is a physically active summer travel program. Activities include hiking, swimming, and exploring cities on foot. You do not need to be at peak fitness to participate, but it is important that you have a desire to be physically active, and that you are excited about trying all activities.

Proficiency in Italian and Greek is not required. However, if you study these languages in school you will have opportunities to practice while communicating with local people. If you don’t speak Italian and Greek you will have the opportunity to learn some basic language skills.

Throughout Italy and Greece, we stay in small family-run hotels and hostels.

We begin each day with a traditional breakfast at our residence. While we eat many of our lunches and dinners in restaurants, we also purchase supplies for healthy and delicious picnic lunches full of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, breads, and cheeses.

A Day in the Life: Salerno, Italy​

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If you have questions or would like to talk further about this program, please get in touch!

Enroll in two programs & save $1,000!

$800 tuition discount + no application fee

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2024 Dates June 23 — July 9 June 27 — July 13 July 6 — July 22

Duration 17 days

Tuition $7,690 + airfare

Eligibility Currently* in grades 9–12 *Your grade as of the day you apply

Typical Group 16–21 students, 2–3 leaders

Group Flight Departs from New York

Questions? Visit our FAQ or call us at (802) 387-5000

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Greece's Largest Island Is Packed With Ancient History, Gorgeous Resorts, and a Stunning Pink-sand Beach

Get ready for plenty of fun in the Grecian sun.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Cities to visit, best things to do, best beaches, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Crete, Greece's largest island, clocks in at more than 3,000 square miles and offers plenty of ancient history, incredible food, and natural beauty to explore. But you don't have to take my word for just how special Crete is. 

"I often describe Crete as a compact, island version of California. We have surfing and backcountry skiing in winter. In summer, we have canyon hiking, mountaineering, and, my personal favorite, hidden beaches only accessible by boat. And the shoulder seasons are — chef's kiss — perfection," Anastasia Sotiropulos, a tour guide based in Chania, Crete, shared. "The real treasure of Crete, though, are the people. The farmers, cheesemakers, fishmongers, artists, restaurateurs, winemakers, musicians, and homemakers create unique experiences for those lucky enough to visit this incredible island." 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at a hotel with stunning Mediterranean views, like Elounda Bay Palace or Domes of Elounda. 
• Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos. 
• Catch some sun on Elafonissi Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful pink-sand beaches. 
• Wander the streets of Chania’s Old Town to admire Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. 
• Visit during the shoulder season to avoid the hottest temperatures and largest crowds.

Ready to start exploring for yourself? Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Crete.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Elounda Bay Palace

This luxury hotel has long been beloved for its mix of elegance and charm. The rooms and suites here open up to sweeping views of the azure Mediterranean waters, and the hotel's private beaches ensure you can always find a chair (and an umbrella). Make an appointment at the Chenot Spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments using science-forward ingredients and techniques. 

Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

Looking to stretch out? Domes of Elounda is the place to be. Known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the historic island of Spinalonga, the resort is home to just suites and villas, which open to fantastic patios with private plunge pools. Yes, this hotel comes with its own spa, but guests can also indulge in an in-room treatment to truly never lift a finger. 

Courtesy of Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Blue Palace

Blue Palace was named a Travel + Leisure reader favorite in the 2023 World's Best Awards , and in 2024, it's getting a whole new look. The renowned hotel is reopening as a modernist boutique hotel with just 47 bungalows and suites, all with brand-new interiors and some with private plunge pools. But even if you don't book a room with a pool, that's okay, as the hotel sits just steps from the beach anyway. 

Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa

Find yourself in a 17th-century Venetian mansion-turned-boutique hotel at Casa Delfino . The hotel, located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, allows travelers to stay amid the action while also offering a retreat-worthy rooftop garden that comes with sweeping views of the sea. It's a perfect place for families thanks to its one and two-bedroom suites. 

A visit to Chania's Old Town is a must, thanks to its charming Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. To make the most of your time in Old Town, book a tour with a guide who can show you all the best sights and all the prime spots to get a great meal. 

Get in a little more Venetian architecture at Rethymno Old Town , one of the best-preserved historical districts in Crete. The city is built around the Venetian fortress, which provides fantastic panoramic views from its hilltop location. Don't skip the artisan shops where you can find the perfect souvenir. 

No visit to Crete is complete without a visit to its capital, Heraklion . Here, visitors can check out numerous historic sites, the Archaeological Museum mentioned below, and all the city's bustling markets, cafes, and bars. And as a bonus, the Palace of Knossos is just a short drive away. 

Elisanth_/Getty Images

Explore the Palace of Knossos.

Dive into more than 4,000 years of Greek history at the Palace of Knossos , Crete's most iconic archaeological site. The ancient complex is absolutely massive, and it comes with a gorgeous view of the sea thanks to its position high on the hill. "Crete's most famous archaeological site is the great Minoan Palace of Knossos, the oldest, largest, and most elaborate of these sites," Peter Sommer of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. "In its wide courts, shaded colonnades, and intricate arrangements of room after room, floor after floor, one can really come to grips with a civilization from far back in the Bronze Age, and grapple with questions that are still hotly debated – what did these palaces look like, what were they for, who lived in them, and how did they function?"

Hike the Samaria Gorge.

Outdoor lovers will adore spending a day hiking through the Samaria Gorge, a lengthy hike through Crete's White Mountains. The hike stretches on for nearly 10 miles through ancient cypress and pine forests and the abandoned village of Samaria before ending at the sea. However, the most famous part of the hike has to be the "Gates," where the gorge is just 13 feet apart but is more than 1,500 feet high. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time if you plan to hike the entire trail. The park's official site estimates that it takes about five hours to complete the journey. 

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

Visit the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania.

Take a stroll through the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania and take in all the colors of Greece. Travelers can walk past homes and buildings showcasing Crete's unique melding of history, including all its Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Shop in its boutiques, grab a frappe in a cafe, view the massive fortress, and dine on plenty of fresh ingredients (hello, Greek salads) at its waterfront restaurants. Just make sure to have your camera ready, as its colorful buildings make for the perfect Instagram backdrop. 

Learn something new at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Get an even deeper education on the island's history with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , which houses the world's most comprehensive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Its most famous exhibit is the Phaistos Disc, a clay disc sporting more than 240 symbols that is said to be more than 3,000 years old. As the museum notes, "experts have not yet a definitive conclusion of the contents of the inscription," so maybe you can uncover what it all means during your visit.

Elafonissi Beach

Get ready to step foot on one of the world's most beautiful and romantic beaches, Elafonissi Beach . The stretch of shoreline is well-known for its pink sand — created by millions of crushed seashells —that disappears into shallow, turquoise waters. The beach, which is part of a nature reserve, is an ideal spot for families with small children thanks to the calm waters, but there are also plenty of spots for adults to put down their towels and umbrellas for a quiet day at the beach. 

Balos Lagoon

One more brilliant beach to visit is Balos Lagoon , a beach made up of brilliant white sand that's lapped by unbelievably blue water. "One of the most popular must-see places in the Chania region is the Balos Lagoon with hypnotizing turquoise waters and a panoramic landscape," Alonso Marly, a travel expert at Skylux Travel , said. "I suggest visiting the beach early in the morning to experience the lagoon at its most tranquil and skip the tourist crowds." 

Find a different style of landscape at Vai Beach , famous for the palm forest lining the coast. Once again, it's a spot where travelers can find warm, sandy beaches and beautiful blue waters, just this time with the bonus of tree shade for the perfect beach snooze. 

Related: 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

The best time to visit Crete is from June to August when the weather on the island is at its prime. As WeatherSpark notes, the warmest weather can be found between early June and late September, when the average daily high temperature hits above 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Things get particularly hot in July, when the average temperature hits 84 degrees. 

"When it comes to the best times to visit Crete, keep in mind that the island is seasonal, and during winter months, most of its attractions are closed," Marly added. "However, throughout the high season, it is full of life day and night." 

But, if you're looking to escape the crowds, try plotting a visit during the island's shoulder seasons, which fall over April to May and September to early October.  

 "If possible, I recommend visiting the island during the shoulder season when it's not too hot and crowded – from April to June or September through October — to make the most of your authentic Greek holiday, full of sunshine and unforgettable experiences," Marly said.  

Crete is accessible via its international airports in Heraklion (Heraklion International Airport, HER) and Chania (Chania International Airport, CHQ). Heraklion is the island's busiest airport, and it is also the second-largest airport in Greece, just behind Athens. Several major airlines fly into the airport, including Emirates, Aegean, RyanAir, EasyJet, and KLM. 

For those looking to avoid the airport, there is a ferry option, but be warned: It's a long ride. Travelers can hop aboard a ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens to Heraklion or Chania, but the ride can take between nine and 10 hours.

Related: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

The best and easiest way to get around Crete is with your own car. Remember, this is Greece's largest island, so if you want to explore more widely, you will need some wheels. There are a ton of rental car companies on the island, including big names like Avis, Budget, and Hertz, all ready to loan you a ride. 

Public Transit

Crete also has a robust public bus system that can get you to most points of interest. Just note the buses here tend to move more slowly than cars, but it's also a rather affordable option, with rides starting at just a few euros. 

Scooters are also a rather popular mode of transportation here, as they are in almost all of the Greek islands. Visitors do need a valid license to rent scooters and must wear a helmet while riding. 

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These are the cheapest European package holidays for summer 2024

The likes of Spain, Greece and Italy are surprisingly some of the most affordable, according to Which? Travel

Plenty of us love the freedom of browsing for the most convenient flights and then for the perfect little hotel. However, sometimes it’s nice to save on time, faff and money by booking a package holiday  – and thanks to a new ranking, we now know exactly where to go for the cheapest package trips across Europe .

The experts at  Which? Travel have analysed over 4,500 holidays that are still available to book for this summer, and compiled a list of the ten cheapest destinations offering a package deal. 

And the best value deals might not be where you’d expect. Places such as Bulgaria and Türkiye  have garnered quite the budget-friendly rep, but classic holiday hot spots such as Greece , Spain and Italy actually boast some of the cheapest options for 2024. 

Claiming the top spot is Kalymnos , a lesser-known Dodecanese island in Greece characterised by secluded little coves and ridiculously blue waters. The cheapest holiday was £794 per person, but the average here is £847 (€987.50). Given it’s around a 40-minute boat ride from Kos, that’s a pretty good deal. 

In fourth place, it’s the Costa Brava in Spain – we know, we’re shocked too. The gorgeous stretch of coast just north of Barcelona has some cracking beaches, and the package holiday price here is around £952 (€1,110) per person. 

But the biggest and maybe most pleasant surprise of all is that the Amalfi Coast has made the top 10, in spot number six. At around £977 (€1,139), this typically expensive region actually boasts a couple of low-key resorts such as Minori and Maiori , which are great options for a cheaper getaway. What ’ s more,  the region will soon be getting an airport , finally !

These are the 10 cheapest European package holiday destinations, according to Which? Travel

• Kalymnos, Greece (£847, €987.50)
• Thassos, Greece (£862, €1,005)
• Lefkada, Greece (£935, €1,090)
• Costa Brava, Spain (£952, €1,110)
• Venetian Riviera, Italy (£965, €1,125)
• Amalfi Coast, Italy (£977, €1,139)
• Skopelos, Greece (£985, €1,148)
• Costa de la Luz, Spain (£994, €1,159)
• Campania, Italy (£998, €1,164)
• Malta (£1,006, €1,173)

More on budget-friendly travel

Looking for an affordable break this year? From this roundup of the most affordable holiday destinations for 2024 from the Post Office’s Holiday Money Report , to this one from WeThrift , or this one from Skyscanner , there are plenty of rankings to help you decide where to go. 

Did you see that Italy has implemented a one-way system for some hiking trails ?

Plus: Venice will start charging day-trippers an extra fee to enter this week . 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

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Mediterranean Explorer: Greece, Italy & Spain Vacation

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, athens – immersed in a 16th- and 17th-century greek neighborhood.

Plaka has distinct energy as a maze of whitewashed alleyways leads you to small squares and churches. Rows of small shops line both sides of the streets, often their wares spilling out onto cobbles. Families walk and gather on the squares while groups of friends bring chatter to restaurant tables. You can hear the sound of plates smashing, and bells chiming and smell the indulgence of fresh produce as if a hint of olive oil permanently hangs in the air. Then you will look up and see the Acropolis looking down, in an illuminated state from dusk onwards. Plaka remains very Greek, and your hotel is located here, an ideal base for an easy first evening exploring.

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Athens – All the Highlights of the Acropolis and Agora

Marble streets reveal a timeless history as temples stand upon them, expertly preserved and majestic in size. Huge slabs of stone lay in ruin and imposing statues line the street as court and temple remains can be seen everywhere. You will be in the Agora, a place where local life unfolded, beneath the bastion of the gods, the Acropolis. The history is impressive, but you were expecting that, just as you were likely expecting the sculptures and artistic details. But you really cannot prepare yourself for the size of the temples and monuments, as these are not small structures, but masterpieces on an enormous scale. There are some good shaded restaurants around the Agora, so you can have lunch with a view before continuing on up the hill.

It is usually hot in the middle of the day, so you will head first to the Acropolis Museum, an air-conditioned complex stuffed full of sculptures and ruins that have been rescued from here and other sites across Greece. Walking high above the city, you will follow in the footsteps of legend as wingless goddesses look at you from beside the temple. Corinthian columns seem to rise miles above your head, and the stone is cracked but not bowed, which evoke the age of this world in another world. Stay on the Acropolis until dusk and have dinner nearby, before settling in for the night to catch your early flight.

Rome – Gladiatorial History to Italian Baroque

Comparing Athens to Rome is one of the highlights of the Mediterranean. Yesterday’s Greek temples will be fresh in your memory as you walk the Roman Forum and admire the Colosseum. In less than 24 hours, you will have connected the two great civilizations, walking the path of gods and now gladiators. The nearby Pantheon is another iconic sight, to be contrasted with the Parthenon yesterday. Wander through Rome, and you will find a city that is not frozen in a time of empire, and the afternoon will show that Rome was not built in a day.

Baroque architecture was pioneered here and illustrates the elegant style made ornate with all manner of flourishes. You will first go exploring with your local guide, beginning with two churches designed by rival Roman architects. The most enjoyable Baroque highlights are the city piazzas. At these places you can rest your legs, sipping on drinks on outdoor terraces and watching the city roll by. Exploring further, you will begin to connect the other eras, your guide telling tales from the time of the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Almost every building is an attraction in the central city, but it is not too crowded here as central Rome is mostly pedestrianized, and you will not need to rush to fit everything in.

Rome – The Eternal City and the Vatican

After yesterday’s early flight and full-day guided tour, today is left free for some personal city exploration. You might want to take a carriage ride into Trastevere, where the smell of home cooking is intoxicating. Perhaps travel 30 minutes along the coast to a ruined Roman fishing village, or you could hit the shops or relax on the piazzas. Late this afternoon, your guide will take you to the Vatican just as the museums are closing. You will have near-exclusive after-hours access to all the galleries and chapels. The art truly comes alive without jostling for space amongst other people, so you can sink your senses into Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, gawp at the splendor of Raphael's Rooms, and find your own favorite place amid the world’s greatest art collection. It will be dark and pretty late when you are back in central Rome, which is just when the locals are heading out to dine.

Amalfi Coast – An Authentic Gritty City and an Evening of Bliss

Naples is rough around the edges. Paint is chipped and peeling, and the grandeur is faded but unbowed, especially where the city meets the Mediterranean. Palaces and stately townhouses reflect in the water surface, as locals mill around the newly constructed promenade. Spend the morning looking around with a typical Naples pizza for lunch, likely to be on the best you will eat in your whole life. From there, continue down the coast, weaving onto a headland then around a broad peak to the Amalfi Coast, your serene base for the next three nights. Your hotel will look down on the Mediterranean, and everything you need will be within walking distance, particularly restaurants and cafes that have never served anything other than authentic fare.

Amalfi Coast – Free Day To Relax on the Mediterranean

Stand on the terrace and feel the breeze pass your ears. Listen for the village sounds of elderly women chatting on a corner or a bell distantly ringing. Take to the streets and follow the smell of coffee, cappuccino the classic choice before midday. Follow the village steps all of the way down, and you will soon reach the water, where cafes look out to returning fishing boats with perfect places to relax. Walk up, and a cliff-side path will connect you to the next village, and the one after that. Walking between them you will enjoy unrivaled views of the Mediterranean, as well as olive groves that now grow here. This day is left entirely free for your chance to enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere and slow pace of life.

Amalfi Coast – Sorrento and the Isle of Capri

More picturesque old villages are nearby, located on the opposite side of the headland. The most famous of these is Sorrento, much larger than those on the Amalfi Coast, where timeless vernacular architecture sets the scene for the super-yachts that lull in the harbor. But that’s for later, as first, you will take the boat to the Isle of Capri, an island getaway since Cleopatra’s time that is still a destination that captures the hearts of many. Beaches lull beneath a mountain’s slopes as ruins crumble elegantly across the island. The harbor is as lovely as any on the Mediterranean, and from the short island getaway, you will spend the afternoon and evening in Sorrento to explore at your own pace before dining at a restaurant slung high above the water.

Barcelona – Surrounded With Culture in the Catalan City

After three nights in leisurely Amalfi, you will likely be ready to start jumping around the sights again. After a short drive to Naples, you will fly direct to Barcelona, touching down with most of the day left for exploring. Your guide will meet you at the airport and customize a city tour to your interests. But before that begins, you will want to take a moment to drink coffee on an outdoor terrace, watching how Catalonia is so different from Italy and Athens. The architecture, language, and food are obviously different, but the contrasts along the Mediterranean are just as much about feeling. Everywhere has its own energy, and in Barcelona, it is an energy that will take you along for the ride.

Walk along the promenade, and you will feel the city’s balmy summer ambiance. Wander into Barrio Gotic and get lost amid the boutiques and wine bars. Follow La Rambla past street musicians and performers, and then ascend towards a castle and viewpoint. Barcelona’s famous architecture is another direction for exploring, and your guide can show you some of La Sagrada Familia’s secrets before you visit some of Gaudi’s early works and the magnificent Palau de la Musica Catalonia. With a handcrafted day at your disposal, you could also be searching for art, checking out the football stadium, or heading out to the monastery at Montserrat. Along the way, you will be exploring different Barcelona neighborhoods and eating some incredible food.

Barcelona – Vineyards on the Med and More of Barcelona

Vines rise from the harsh rock on Catalonia’s slopes as the Mediterranean brings cool air that has grapes moving softly with the breeze. Vineyards are tucked away between the vines, mostly converted farmhouses that retain the charm of old age. This is Penedes, a wine region revered around the world, and it makes bubbles. 90% of Spanish Cava comes from here, and the good stuff comfortably rivals Champagne. Travel here in the morning, and you hear the enviable sound of corks popping. Tour a winery and go tasting with a view, before stopping at a larger vineyard for a lunch with wine pairing.

It will be an easy half-day tour, although note that you may also consider Priorat if velvety red wines are more your taste. You will be back in Barcelona as locals are waking from their siestas, and there will be time to continue the sightseeing from yesterday. You can join in the energy around La Rambla and Barrio Gotic, where there is a wine bar built into old Roman ruins. Or you could head down to the beach, which gets really lively at this hour. A final evening in Barcelona and you will want to be along the Mediterranean, dining on Catalan cuisine, watching how the water changes color at dusk. You know this sea well by now, and you will want to come back someday as the Mediterranean always reveals new treasures.

Barcelona – Departure

This day is left free other than a private airport transfer to meet your outbound flight, so you can enjoy one last leisurely morning of wandering what is likely one of your favorite cities in the world.

Trip Highlights

• Luxuriate on the Amalfi Coast with a three-night stay in a colorful cliffside village
• Stand at the Athens Acropolis and be surrounded by ancient temples and historical structures
• Enjoy all the energy of Barcelona, a city with so many Catalonian treasures
• Take an after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums, savoring the masterpieces with few other people around
• Spend one afternoon on the Isle of Capri, another in the Penedes vineyards, and one in the timeless city of Naples
• Explore all the highlights of old Rome, from the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the grand piazzas
• Live like a local by with accommodations in the Athenian district of Plaka
• Discover colorful city neighborhoods as guides take you beyond the beaten path in Athens, Rome, and Barcelona

Detailed Description

The Mediterranean breathes history like no other body of water. Ancient temples look down on its blue-green water, wingless goddesses sculpted into their facades. Villages are carved into cliff faces, and each has its own story to tell. City riches shimmer in the water surface with a palace in Naples, a castle in Barcelona, and churches all over. Waves lap softly against the world’s great early cities of Athens and Rome, as this is a sea with secrets and a sea that has shaped the course of history. Look across the water, and you can see turquoise bliss, as first and foremost, the Mediterranean provides a relaxing escape.

This 10-day Europe trip celebrates the Mediterranean in all its forms. You will luxuriate in coastal villages hidden from the world, and there is mind-blowing history abounding, especially during your time spent in Athens and Rome. Unique cultures have evolved all along the water, and you will contrast them, from Athenian Plaka to Naples and Barcelona. This is not a cruise, as these three countries are connected by direct flights, while in Italy you will take a lovely journey along the coast. While the itinerary may initially seem rushed, the beauty of this region is how relaxed it can always feel. So after you marvel at Athens and Rome, there are three days tucked away on the Amalfi Coast, which should energize you perfectly for ending in Barcelona.

This Mediterranean itinerary begins in the Greek capital. Spend your afternoon and evening around Plaka to discover the city’s 17th- and 18th-century atmosphere. The next day will be all about the ancient civilization, from the Acropolis down to the Agora. Fly direct to Rome, and you will be quickly celebrating early Roman history, the Colosseum and Pantheon great to compare against the sights of Athens. Lounge on the city’s elegant piazzas before an after-hours visit to the Vatican Museums the next day, where the world-famous murals and priceless art are far more enjoyable after the crowds have left.

Traveling south from Rome, you will make a stop in Naples, a gritty city with a strong artistic legacy. The city is not picture perfect, and that is the attraction. This energetic city is on route to three nights on the Amalfi Coast, where your hotel terrace provides dreamy views over the Mediterranean. It will be time to relax. But you will still explore, with Sorrento and the Isle of Capri part of the experience. Flying Naples to Barcelona you explore Catalonia, in the city of Gaudi and out on the Penedes vineyards. These final nights are spent on the coast, strolling golden sands before dining al fresco on Barcelona plazas. 

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• 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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8 best Italy cruises for a Mediterranean vacation

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You don’t have to search all that hard to find the best Italy cruises — most leading cruise lines offer dozens of itineraries that visit Italian ports, often in conjunction with neighboring countries France, Greece and Croatia.

The reason? Italy has it all: coastlines on both the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, historic port cities (Rome, Venice and Naples among them) and spectacular islands (including Sicily, Sardinia, Capri and Elba).

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Plus, with a cruise season that runs from early April through late October (and even year-round for a few cruise lines), Italy offers something for everyone. Travel here to find an alluring mix of impeccably preserved historic sites, renowned regional cuisines and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Here are eight of the best Italy cruises for every type of traveler.

Best Italy cruises for cultural immersion: Azamara

Azamara pioneered the concept of single-country itineraries, which allow for greater cultural immersion and even overnight stays in select ports. The cruise line’s 11-night voyage in October 2024 is one of its most comprehensive.

The sailing begins in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and ends in Rome (Civitavecchia), with visits to seven more Italian ports and Tunis, Tunisia. You’ll explore Genoa, Livorno (overnight for Florence/Pisa), Porto Santo Stefano (on the Tuscan coast), Cagliari (on Sardinia), Trapani (on Sicily), Amalfi and Sorrento.

This voyage is aboard the 684-passenger Azamara Onward, one of the cruise line’s four virtually identical ships. (All are former Renaissance R-class ships built in the early 2000s and renovated over the past several years.) The vessels’ intimate size and Azamara’s focus on cultural experiences and shore excursions emphasizing history and food (including cooking classes and market tours) make for an immersive cruise itinerary.

Other Italy-Intensive voyages in 2023 and 2024 include the following: a 10-night voyage in October 2023 aboard Azamara Quest, a 10-night voyage in April 2024 aboard Azamara Pursuit, and a seven-night voyage in May 2024 aboard Azamara Quest.

Best Italy cruises for small-ship lovers: Windstar Cruises

It’s rare to find a cruise itinerary so fully focused on one specific region of Italy, but Windstar Cruises ’ small ships — three classic sailing yachts and three all-suite motor yachts, which accommodate 148 to 342 guests — allow it to offer cruises to less-frequented ports.

Windstar’s 10-day Sicilian Splendors , aboard its 342-passenger sailing yacht Wind Surf, is available on multiple dates in 2023, 2024 and 2025. The ship will cruise round-trip from Rome and call on six Italian ports: Catania (for Mount Etna), Porto Empedocle (for the ancient ruins at Agrigento) and Trapani (for its signature colored salts and Marsala wines), all in Sicily; the island of Lipari (the largest of seven Aeolian Islands); and Sorrento and Amalfi on the stunning Amalfi Coast. The cruise also visits the neighboring islands of Malta and Gozo.

Five-masted Wind Surf is the world’s largest sailing ship. It manages to be intimate without feeling claustrophobic, although it is worth noting that none of its staterooms or suites has a balcony. There is, however, ample deck space for relaxation, with a pool and two hot tubs, as well as inviting alfresco bars and dining areas.

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Indoors, the ship’s restaurants and social spaces, such as the Veranda Restaurant, Stella Bistro and the Compass Rose Bar, are light-filled, with elegant neutral decor refreshed in 2019.

Musical entertainment takes place in the Wind Surf Lounge and Compass Rose Bar, and Windstar’s excellent dining program reflects an ongoing partnership with the James Beard Foundation. In select tender ports, passengers can enjoy a watersports platform and take out sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

Best Italy cruises for onboard pampering: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

If enjoying yacht-style indulgence as you explore Southern Italy is on your cruise wish list, consider the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s 10-night Rome to Valletta itinerary in May 2024. This cruise visits scenic hot spots such as Sorrento and Amalfi on the Amalfi Coast, history-rich Siracusa in Sicily and three ports (Gallipoli, Taranto and Otranto) in lesser-known Puglia, located on the heel of boot-shaped Italy, before passengers disembark in Malta.

Ritz-Carlton, which entered the cruise realm in 2021 with its 298-passenger luxury yacht, Evrima , offers an all-inclusive “yachting lifestyle” experience. This leisurely sailing features overnights in Sorrento and Taranto and two sea days with ample ways to enjoy onboard pampering. The ship’s spacious suites are designed with a contemporary residential feel and range in size from 300 square feet with an 81-square-foot terrace to 1,091 square feet with a 635-square-foot terrace.

Evrima also offers nine bars and dining venues featuring menus created to reflect the ports visited. For culinary indulgence, guests can book a table at S.E.A., a specialty dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the Michelin three-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany.

The ship also features chicly designed spaces for relaxing and socializing, such as the Pool House lounge overlooking an aft infinity pool, a second pool located next to the alfresco restaurant Mistral, a panoramic Observation Lounge and a full-service Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best Italy cruises for foodies: Silversea Cruises

The three newest ships in the Silversea Cruises fleet — Silver Moon, Silver Dawn and 2023’s first-in-class Silver Nova — all feature the cruise line’s immersive culinary program known as S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste). When Silversea’s next ship, the 728-passenger Silver Ray, debuts in 2024, it will also take its guests on culinary-focused journeys — among them an 11-day Rome to Venice itinerary in June 2024.

The itinerary includes calls on seven ports in Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Palermo, Siracusa, Trieste and Venice. The sailing also visits ports in Malta, Montenegro and Croatia.

Silversea’s sailings blend food-centric excursions — such as a visit to a family farm for a tasting of fresh cheese, salami and olive oil in Sorrento — with the onboard S.A.L.T. program to make sampling local cuisine a natural part of the cruise experience. The day-to-day menus at S.A.L.T. Kitchen are all inspired by the ports visited. The Terrain menu focuses on that day’s port while the Voyage menu draws from the best flavors of the entire itinerary.

Passengers aboard Silver Ray should definitely pack an appetite — in addition to S.A.L.T. Kitchen, the ship features seven other restaurants. They are La Dame for haute French cuisine, Atlantide for signature fine dining (think caviar and lobster), Kaiseki for Japanese sushi and teppanyaki (as well as pan-Asian dishes), Silver Note for tapas-style dining and live music, The Grill for casual burgers and salads, La Terrazza for handmade pasta and other Italian specialties, and Spaccanapoli for thin-crusted Naples-style pizza. With 11 nights aboard, there’s time to sample all of them.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Best Italy cruises for families: Norwegian Cruise Line

 If an Italy adventure with the entire family sounds like the perfect cruise vacation in 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line ’s new Norwegian Viva, launching in August 2023 as the sister ship to 2022’s Norwegian Prima, is an ideal playground for guests of all ages.

The most Italy-focused itinerary? The 10-day Mediterranean: Italy, Greece & Croatia cruise (offered aboard 3,099-guest Viva in late June and late September 2024) calls on six ports in Italy — Rome, Livorno, Naples, Messina, Siracusa and Trieste — as well as the islands of Corfu and Malta; Koper, Slovenia; and Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia.

This itinerary is rich in history and culture, including the ancient landmarks of Rome, the archeological wonders of Pompeii and the Leaning Tower of Pisa near Livorno, plus the beauty and culinary treats (sweet cannoli and savory arancini) of Sicily, where Viva makes two port calls. Though the cruise ends in Trieste, the wonders of Venice are just 90 minutes away, so adding a few extra nights to explore its colorful, canal-laced islands is a must.

Onboard Viva, you’ll enjoy more than a dozen dining options (five of them complimentary, including the casual and family-friendly Indulge Food Hall), 16 bars and lounges and all the fun activities/entertainment (including a production of the Broadway hit “Beetlejuice: The Musical”) that the line offers.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Top amenities include the three-deck Viva Speedway for exhilarating go-kart racing, three thrilling slides (two of them 10-story corkscrew dry slides and one tidal-wave-style waterslide), virtual-reality gaming in the Galaxy Pavilion, tech-enhanced minigolf and more. Also, Viva’s generous outside deck space — especially Deck 8’s Ocean Boulevard with its lively Indulge Outdoor Lounge and sleek Infinity Beach pools — is ideal for scenic cruising in the Mediterranean and Adriatic.

Best Italy cruises for couples: Oceania Cruises

The sophisticated onboard ambiance and a romantic itinerary are a lovely combination, and couples can enjoy both on the 12-night Mediterranean Tapestry sailing offered in June 2024 aboard Oceania Cruises ’ newest vessel, Oceania Vista.

The 1,200-passenger ship, which debuted in May 2023, will visit four top ports in Italy — Venice/Trieste in Northern Italy, Taormina in Sicily, Amalfi/Positano in Southern Italy and Civitavecchia for a day in Rome.

Beyond Italy, this itinerary offers a sampling of scenic locales in six other Adriatic and Mediterranean countries with a possible pre-cruise stay in Venice. You’ll visit Korcula and Split in Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Igoumanitsa and Katakolon in Greece; Ajaccio, Corsica; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseille, France; and Barcelona, Spain.

Oceania caters to couples seeking an upscale cruise experience with a culinary focus. Onboard Vista, the atmosphere is sleek and polished, with interior decor awash in elegant neutrals of varying patterns and textures, all woven together into a soothing mosaic (in some cases, literally, as tiled vignettes are used throughout the ship). Vista’s bars and lounges, especially the Martini Bar and the Grand Lounge, are so chic you’ll want to get dressed up every night to enjoy one of the craft cocktails on their newly enhanced menus.

All specialty dining is included in the cruise fare, and stand-out meals at Polo Grill (for an excellent steakhouse menu), Toscana (for authentic Italian, including recipes by Vista’s godmother Giada De Laurentiis) and Red Ginger (for flavorful pan-Asian) are just a reservation away. Two new eateries, Aquamar Kitchen and Ember, serve wellness-focused cuisine and casual American comfort food, respectively, and an expanded Culinary Arts Center lets guests who love to cook take hands-on classes.

Best of all, Vista is an all-balcony ship, so every stateroom features access to fresh air (French Veranda Staterooms don’t have an outdoor sitting area, however). Veranda Staterooms and Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms offer a spacious 290 square feet of indoor space — and some of the best standard bathrooms at sea with roomy walk-in showers and ample storage.

Related: The best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Best Italy cruises for travelers on a budget: Royal Caribbean

To score a budget cruise fare in the Mediterranean, it helps to look for sailings aboard a cruise line’s older ships. If Italy is your main focus for a future cruise, it’s hard to beat the seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary in September 2024 aboard Royal Caribbean ’s Voyager of the Seas.

It visits five Italian ports: Venice/Ravenna, Messina in Sicily, Naples, Rome and Livorno (for Florence and Pisa). The ship also calls on Marseille and Barcelona. Voyager’s Italy-focused cruise is a jam-packed itinerary with just one sea day.

Ideal for both couples and multi-generational families, the 3,600-passenger Voyager of the Seas (which debuted in 1999 and was last refurbished in 2019) features seven restaurants (including three complimentary dining venues and specialty restaurant favorites Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Table) and eight bars/lounges.

The ship has been “amped-up” so guests can enjoy features found on Royal Caribbean’s newer ships: Perfect Storm waterslides, FlowRider simulated surfing, Battle for Planet Z laser tag, Voyager Dunes minigolf, Studio B ice-skating shows and reimagined spaces for kids and teens.

Nights aboard Voyager of the Seas will be filled with complimentary entertainment options: production shows in the Royal Theater, pub performances by guest entertainers and bands, game-show competitions, pool parties, outdoor movie nights and a ‘70s disco party.

Best Italy cruises for adults-only ambiance: Viking

 Is Venice at the top of your wish list? Does an adults-only cruise on a ship with serene, Scandinavian-inspired interior decor and complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner sound ideal?

If so, check out Viking ’s 15-night Italy, the Adriatic and Greece itinerary , which sails from Athens to Rome and visits six Italian ports — Venice/Chioggia, Bari, Crotone, Messina, Naples and Rome — with three days spent in Venice. As a bonus, you’ll also visit ports in Greece (Katakolon and Corfu), Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split and Sibenik) and Montenegro (Kotor).

Offered on multiple dates in fall 2023, 2024 and 2025, this itinerary is chock full of port experiences; there are no sea days, and a total of 13 cities are visited. Viking includes one free guided shore excursion in each port, usually a panoramic bus tour or historic walking tour. Use that as an overview and then explore on your own or book one of the cruise line’s longer or more specialized excursions. Onboard guest speakers also offer insight into the ports visited and the cultural landscape.

The cruise line’s nine ocean ships are all identical and accommodate 930 passengers, most of whom are couples over age 55. Onboard dining is available in eight restaurants, including the main venue, The Restaurant and the buffet-style World Cafe, the casual Pool Grill and the Norwegian-focused Mamsen’s. Guests can also reserve dinner at two specialty restaurants (at no extra charge): Manfredi’s for Italian cuisine and The Chef’s Table for multi-course, wine-paired menus that rotate throughout the cruise.

Afternoon tea is served in the elegant Wintergarden. The Aquavit Terrace overlooking the aft infinity pool is a sunny spot to enjoy alfresco dining.

If you’re willing to come back early from port, Viking’s ocean ships offer plenty of ways to relax on board. All passengers enjoy complimentary access to the ship’s thermal suite in the LivNordic Spa. It features a thalassotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and snow room. The Main Pool has a retractable roof and can be enjoyed no matter what the weather. However, if you want to live it up at night, note that the ship does not have an onboard casino.

Bottom line

The best Italy cruises offer access to some of the country’s most-loved cities, as well as a chance to explore some of its sunny islands and lesser-known coastal ports. No matter the itinerary, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the splendid landscapes, treasured antiquities and, of course, the incredible gelato.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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More From Forbes

Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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Greece Announces New Plan to Protect Some of Its Pristine Beaches

The government has pledged to crack down on rapid development, and on seaside businesses seeking to take advantage of a tourist boom. But some residents and conservationists are unimpressed.

By Niki Kitsantonis

Reporting from Athens

The Greek government on Friday published a list of 198 “untrodden beaches” that it said are now off limits to bars, restaurants and large public gatherings in its latest attempt to contain development and address the backlash to the throngs of tourists that descend on the country’s coastlines each year.

The move comes amid growing frustration among residents of Greek islands and parts of the coastal mainland that are popular with foreign visitors. Protests ballooned into a nationwide “beach towel movement” last summer as disgruntled locals complained that they were being pushed off their own beaches by businesses seeking to take advantage of a tourist boom that brought more than 32 million foreign visitors to Greece last year .

On the country’s Cycladic islands, local residents joined forces with the authorities to push back against a wave of construction .

Greece’s conservative government has pledged to crack down on the development, and on seaside businesses that violate regulations. In February it passed a law aimed at regulating the use of the country’s coastline, imposing penalties of up to 60,000 euros for businesses occupying more than 50 percent of Greek beaches with umbrellas and sun beds.

Critics said the law did not go far enough to curb the problem, with some claiming that the government was perpetuating the issue by not tackling illegal land use more comprehensively.

The list of “untrodden beaches,” unveiled in a joint agreement between Greece’s finance and environment ministers, is part of a broader effort to restore balance, the government said. “The main goal is to combine environmental protection with sustainable development,” Kostis Hatzidakis, the economy and finance minister, said on Friday.

“The environment is a valuable component of the Greek tourist product,” he said.

Under the new initiative, the government was putting public assets “under a strict framework of rules, penalties and obligations,” Mr. Hatzidakis said. Inspections and transparency would be increased, as would “the enforcement of the law,” he added.

The beaches on the list are in areas included in the European Union’s Natura program, a network of vulnerable habitats across Europe that are protected under European law. Among the beaches listed on Friday are spots on popular islands such as Milos, Naxos, Lesbos, Samothrace and in the southern Peloponnese peninsula.

The islands were selected based on the advice of the country’s Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency and are all “areas of high ecological importance,” Theodoros Skylakakis, the environment and energy minister, said on Friday.

Under the new initiative, no section of those beaches can be auctioned off for commercial use, and the presence of sun-loungers and umbrellas will be prohibited, as will the organization of public events involving more than 10 people.

Another initiative being introduced by the government is a new app called “MyCoast,” on which people can report violations.

Some environmentalists in Greece were not impressed by Friday’s announcement. Eleni Andrianopoulou, a resident of Naxos and a member of a local “Save the beaches” group, said the government’s original plan had been for more than 1,000 beaches nationwide to be covered, adding that Natura areas require “real protection.”

“From the beginning we had stressed that this reform for untrodden beaches was a fraud.”

Demetre Karavellas, director of the World Wildlife Fund Greece, said the authorities were jumping the gun with their list of pristine beaches, noting that there are more than 100 marine and coastal areas in Greece that are recognized by the Natura program but have yet to be effectively managed or conserved.

“The government should start by complying with its basic legal obligations before creating new vague categories of protection,” he said.

Niki Kitsantonis is a freelance correspondent for The Times based in Athens. She has been writing about Greece for 20 years, including more than a decade of coverage for The Times. More about Niki Kitsantonis