Greek Wonders and Sicilian Charms
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Embark on a captivating 10-day tour starting in Athens and concluding in the historic city of Palermo. Get ready to dive into the heart of Greece and Italy, embracing vibrant cities and remarkable sights. Begin with a journey through Athens, marvelling at its ancient landmarks and exploring the charming Plaka neighbourhood. Travel to Olympia and stand where the first Olympic Games took place. Cross the stunning RioAntirrio Bridge and sail to Italy, where youll explore unique trulli houses in Alberobello and wander through the ancient dwellings of Matera. Experience Capris scenic vistas, Sicily's breathtaking landscapes, and Palermos cultural treasures. Expect to see famed cathedrals, stunning mosaics, and picturesque Italian towns along the way.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
10 daysHotel Rating
3-5 star hotelsStarts
AthensEnds
PalermoMinimum age
No minimum ageMaximum age
100Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Countries
Greece, ItalyPassengers
$2,500.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 1 / Max 65Tranportation
N/ALanguage
EnglishLanguage
EnglishRange
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Athens
Tripoli
Olympia
Patras
Igoumenitsa
Igumenitsa - Brindisi Ferry
Brindisi
Alberobello
Matera
Naples
Capri
Sorrento
Salerno
Paola
Mesina
Taormina
Caltagirone
Villa Romana del Casale
Palermo
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Athens
Welcome to Athens! Upon arrival, we will ensure your smooth transfer to the hotel, allowing you some free time to settle in and begin exploring the city at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, watch the information boards at the hotel reception for details regarding the start of your journey. Athens, the cradle of Western civilisation, offers an intriguing first taste of its vibrant mix of ancient history and bustling modern life. Enjoy the city's lively atmosphere as you prepare for the adventures ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - Athens
We will embark on a captivating city tour of Athens, expertly guided to ensure you experience the best of this historic city. Our tour begins with visits to iconic landmarks, including the elegant Presidential Mansion and the historic Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games took place. You'll also marvel at the grandeur of the National Library and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Athens' bustling city centre squares. As we explore further, we'll discover Athens' newer districts, developed after the 2004 Olympic Games, showcasing the city's dynamic evolution. Our tour concludes at the majestic Acropolis; please note that entry to the site is not included. In the evening, we will transport you to the charming neighbourhood of Plaka. Famous for its delightful Greek tavernas, Plaka offers a perfect opportunity for you to savour local cuisine and immerse yourself in Greece's rich folklore.
Day 3 - Athens - Tripoli - Olympia - Patras
On our third day, we will head towards the captivating Peloponnese region. A brief stop at the Corinth Canal awaits us, a remarkable feat of engineering from the late 1800s that slices through the isthmus, connecting the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf. Our travels continue through the beautiful mountains until we arrive in Tripoli, the capital of Arcadia. Here, youll have an opportunity to explore Aeros Square, a lively hub known for its vibrant cafes and eateries. Our journey proceeds to Olympia, a place rich in history as the original site of the Olympic Games, first held in 776 B.C. With a local guide, we will delve into the treasures of the archaeological site, where you can admire the Temple of Zeus, the ancient Stadium, the Gymnasium, and the Arena, with tickets included. Next, we journey to the city of Patras. Known as Greeces third largest city, Patras offers significant sights, including a notable medieval fortress and the nations largest cathedral. Here, located next to the grand cathedral, is the small church of St. Andrew, an important pilgrimage destination. Tonight, enjoy a delightful included dinner before resting for the night.
Day 4 - Patras - Igoumenitsa - Igumenitsa - Brindisi Ferry - Brindisi
Following breakfast, we will cross the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, an impressive suspension bridge linking the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Our journey will take us through the scenic regions of Central Greece and Epirus. Upon reaching Igoumenitsa, a charming port town, you'll have the opportunity to explore before we embark on an afternoon ferry crossing the Ionian Sea to Italy. Our destination, Brindisi, will be reached by around 9:00 p.m., where we'll spend the night.
Day 5 - Brindisi - Alberobello - Matera - Naples
Today, we'll explore two unique and genuine Italian towns. First, we visit Alberobello, celebrated for its distinctive trulliconical-roofed houses crafted from stone. These charming structures form a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exemplify traditional rural Italian architecture. Our journey then takes us to Matera in the Basilicata region, renowned for its Sassi di Materaancient cave dwellings and structures hewn from rock, standing as testimony to one of the world's oldest continually inhabited settlements. Lunch is included as we admire Matera's historical allure. In the afternoon, we continue through the picturesque landscapes of Basilicata and Campania, arriving in Naples by evening. You'll have free time to explore the vibrant surroundings at your leisure.
Day 6 - Naples - Capri - Sorrento - Salerno
After breakfast, we will make our way to the port of Naples to board a ferry heading to the stunning Island of Capri. We recommend taking the funicular up to Capri town, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the breathtaking views. Following lunch, we will continue our adventure to Sorrento, a delightful town perched at the foot of a steep cliff. Here, you will have free time to explore at your own pace. We will then proceed to the Gulf of Salerno, where we will settle in for the night in the city of Salerno.
Day 7 - Salerno - Paola - Mesina - Taormina
Today, we'll head south, soaking up the breathtaking landscapes of southern Italy as we traverse Cilento National Park. Our first destination is Paola, a coastal town on the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here, we'll visit the Sanctuary of St. Francis of Paola before you have free time to enjoy lunch in the charming historic centre. Our journey continues to Villa San Giovanni, where we'll catch a short ferry to the enchanting island of Sicily. Upon docking in Messina, you'll have the opportunity to wander around the cathedral at your own pace. We'll then proceed to Taormina for the evening, where dinner is included. Note: Accommodation will generally be in the Taormina area, but on some occasions, we may stay in Messina.
Day 8 - Taormina - Caltagirone - Villa Romana del Casale - Palermo
Today, we begin our exploration at Taormina, renowned for its captivating views and nestled at the foot of Mount Etna. Described by Churchill as one of the most beautiful places on earth, Taormina promises a delightful start to your day. You will have the opportunity to discover its vibrant old town, where history and architecture intertwine, especially at the Greek theatre with its stunning backdrop.As we continue, our journey takes us to the heart of Sicily, stopping at Caltagirone a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its distinguished Baroque structures. A charming tourist train will acquaint you with the citys landmarks and storied past. Known as the ceramic capital of Sicily, Caltagirone boasts numerous shops and workshops, while the iconic 142-step staircase, adorned with unique, colourful tiles, offers a distinctive sight.Following lunch, our adventure leads to the Villa Romana del Casale, where a guided tour unveils its remarkable history. This Roman villa, a testament to past agricultural prosperity, is noted for its exceptional 4th-century architecture and exquisite mosaics, regarded as among the finest of their kind.Finally, we cross Sicilys mountainous terrain, making our way to Palermo by days end, where a delightful dinner awaits.
Day 9 - Palermo
Today, we will explore Palermo on a guided tour with a local expert. You will discover fascinating highlights such as Palermo Cathedral, known for its mix of architectural styles and housing the tombs of royalty admission is included for your convenience. We'll also visit the Palazzo dei Normanni, a former royal palace that boasts magnificent fountains, vibrant markets, and lush gardens. Our tour continues to Monreale, where we will witness the awe-inspiring cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its exquisite golden mosaics that grace the entire interior admission is included here too. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish, allowing you time to further explore or relax at your leisure. Please note, for smaller groups, this tour may be part of a regular excursion conducted by local companies rather than a private tour.
Day 10 - Palermo
After breakfast, we wrap up our journey in Palermo. As the tour concludes, take with you the delightful memories of the experiences and discoveries shared throughout this adventure.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Athens
Double
Twin
Triple
Single
Post-Tour Accommodation - Palermo
Double
Twin
Triple
Single
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Dates for 2027 haven't been released yet.
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