Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Board your overnight flight bound for Athens.

Day 2 - Athens
Afternoon arrival at Athens airport. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, you will be met by your Travel Director. Board your private motor coach and transfer to your hotel. Get your first impressions of Athens during an orientation walk.

Day 3 - Athens
Enjoy a morning guided visit of the city including the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Then view the Agora, followed by a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Later, enjoy an evening of Greek culture. Eat local cuisine while watching local dancers perform to traditional music. You will learn some of the dance steps so that you can participate as well.

Day 4 - Athens
This morning, embark on a day cruise of the Saronic Islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra.  These islands are known for their art and culture, history and natural beauty. Lunch is included during your cruise.

Day 5 - Kalambaka Area
This morning drive to Delphi for a guided visit of the mythical site that was home of the fabled oracle. Also included is the Archaeological Museum, featuring artifacts unearthed during local excavations. Continue the drive north to the Kalambaka area, known for the spectacular Meteora rocks that rise high above the town.

Day 6 - Overnight Ferry
This morning ascend Meteora to see the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site that comprises the local monasteries dating as far back as the 14th century. The visit includes entry to two of the monasteries where you will immerse yourselves in the local ancient religious traditions. Continue to the port city of Igoumenitsa to board the overnight ferry bound for the Italian port of Ancona.

Day 7 - Tuscany
This morning drive to Florence the birthplace of the Renaissance in Italy. A local expert will guide you around the highlights of the city such as Ghiberti's Baptistry Doors, Santa Croce and the beautiful Duomo. Later, visit the Accademia to see the statue of David and other works by Michelangelo. Tonight, continue to the countryside of Tuscany for your overnight.

Day 8 - Tuscany
This morning, visit an organic farm in the Tuscan countryside where you will learn about local agriculture, and help out on the farm. You’ll pick your own produce and learn to make a traditional Italian farm to table lunch (lunch is included). Later, explore the city of Lucca, which is known for it well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling its historic city center and its cobblestone streets, enjoy some free time to shop, and eat your share of gelato.

Day 9 - Rome
Your first stop today is in Assisi where St. Francis founded the Franciscan Friars. Take a walk through the beautiful hilltop town and visit the Basilica to admire the frescoes by Giotto. Later continue to Rome, and enjoy a beautiful evening walk around the Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain.

Day 10 - Rome
This morning a guided tour will introduce you to the sites of ancient Rome, you’ll see the Forum and Colosseum - one of the most impressive sights in Rome. The building was completed in 80 A.D. and at its peak held 87,000 spectators. This afternoon, step back in time, put on your own gladiator gear, and participate in Gladiator Games at Castrum Legionis.

Day 11 - Rome
A local guide will introduce you to the smallest state in the world, Vatican City, situated in Rome. This is the home of the Pope but also home to almost 1,000 other residents. You’ll visit Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter's Basilica. Later, you’ll take an interactive cooking lesson on the art and tradition of tiramisu making. Tonight, join our farewell dinner!

Day 12
Transfer to the airport for return flight to the USA.