Grand European Odyssey Rome to Santorini

Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival at the airport, we will be ready to transfer you to your hotel. Keep an eye on the information boards in the hotel for all the details on meeting your guide. In the late afternoon, well escort you to the Esquilino neighbourhood a splendid introduction to Rome, home to magnificent basilicas and the iconic Colosseum. Dinner is included this evening. Please note that fellow travellers might join or depart from the tour at various points along the way, though the group size will always remain within limits. 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.

Our day begins with a three-hour guided exploration of Rome, a city steeped in history and culture. We will start with a walking tour of Imperial Rome, moving on to a panoramic bus tour to uncover one of the cornerstones of Western civilisation. Our route includes celebrated landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine, the exterior of the Colosseum, and the Imperial Forums. We will also pass by the historic Circus Maximus, the awe-inspiring Baths of Caracalla, the majestic Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the Pyramid of Cestius, and the imposing Castel SantAngelo. This comprehensive tour will culminate in Vatican City around 11:30 a.m. In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore the city at your own pace, perhaps visiting additional sites, sampling local cuisine, or simply soaking up the lively Roman atmosphere.

You have a free day in Rome today, offering you the perfect opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. If you're looking for an adventure, we recommend an optional excursion to Naples, the stunning island of Capri, and the historic site of Pompeii.

Today, we'll set out towards the Adriatic Sea, enjoying the stunning scenery of the Apennine Mountains along the way. Our first destination is the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, an exquisite 11th-century structure standing on the location of an ancient Roman temple. Entry to the abbey is included. Next, we'll visit Termoli, a captivating coastal town where the coastline meets the charming walled old town. Take in the sights of the 13th-century castle and the Romanesque cathedral, or perhaps youll choose to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Our adventure continues as we journey to Bari, a city with a rich history dating back to pre-Roman times. Once there, you'll have the chance to explore the old town, marvelling at its narrow streets, impressive churches, and the vibrant atmosphere that embodies the charm of southern Italy.

Following breakfast, we make our way to Brindisi. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, admire the impressive Roman column, and wander through the historic old town. Later, we'll board a modern ferry, scheduled for departure at 1:00 p.m., for a journey across the Ionian Sea to Igoumenitsa, Greece. After the eight-hour crossing, we will transfer to our overnight accommodation.

Following breakfast, we set out from Igoumenitsa and travel through the impressive mountains of Epirus, reaching the picturesque Balkan village of Metsovo. Characterised by its traditional stone houses, red-tiled roofs, and intricately carved wooden balconies, Metsovo offers a unique atmosphere shaped by Slavic and Turkish influences. You'll have time to explore its inviting streets before we continue our journey into the Thessaly region. Our next stop is the village of Kastraki, where you can enjoy lunch amidst breathtaking views of the Meteora Valley. We then proceed to the extraordinary Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning rock formations topped with historic monasteries. The Greek name Mtora means suspended in the air, aptly describing these majestic stone pillars. These monasteries have provided a tranquil refuge for monks seeking solitude and spirituality for centuries. A visit to one of these famous sanctuaries is included, offering insight into their rich heritage. Our day concludes in Kalabaka, where we will enjoy dinner and reflect on the days discoveries.

As we continue our journey south through the captivating scenery of Thessaly, well arrive at the ancient site of Delphi. Famed for its archaeological significance, Delphi offers breathtaking vistas over the Gulf of Corinth. You will have time to explore and enjoy lunch amidst this remarkable historical setting. Following our exploration of Delphi, we will proceed to the Hosios Loukas Monastery. This site is celebrated for its exquisite 11th-century Byzantine mosaics, and rightly holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our day will culminate with our arrival in Athens by the evening.

On the eighth day, you'll have the morning at your leisure in Athens, providing ample time for museum visits, shopping, or simply soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, we'll head to Piraeus Port, where we'll board an overnight ferry. The ferry boasts cruise-like amenities, ensuring your comfort as you stay in a double cabin and sail through the night towards your next destination.

We arrive in Rhodes early in the morning, where we embark on a city tour to explore its remarkable walled citadel and the historic Old Town. This area is a vibrant blend of influences from various cultures, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, the Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian. The afternoon is yours to explore the island at leisure wander the charming streets, relax in a local caf, or delve deeper into the rich history and culture of this fascinating place.

Today, we begin our exploration beyond the city of Rhodes with an included excursion around the island, offering diverse landscapes and historical sites. Our first destination is Filerimos, nestled atop a hill and home to a remarkable monastery surrounded by scenic vistas. From there, we move on to Lindos, renowned for its ancient fortress and Acropolis, offering spectacular views of the sea. You can take this opportunity to wander through the enchanting whitewashed streets, unwind on a picturesque beach, or choose a unique donkey ride to the Acropolis. After lunch, we'll return to the city of Rhodes, where you'll have the afternoon free to explore at your own pace. As evening approaches, we will arrange your transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Crete. Upon arrival, we will head to our hotel in Heraklion. Please be aware that direct flights between Rhodes and Crete can be limited and subject to changes, with a possibility of flying on Friday morning or experiencing a stopover in Athens.

In the morning, we will set off along the western coast of Crete, with our first destination being Rethymno. This picturesque seaside city, originally established by the Venetians, is renowned for its medieval castle. Later, we'll continue to Chania, a captivating city that boasts a formidable fortress and stately mansions. Chania's history is a tapestry woven from various cultures having once been under the rule of Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks. After a day of exploring these historical gems, we'll return to Heraklion.

Today, we'll embark on a captivating exploration of the Palace of Knossos, a site that offers a fascinating insight into the Minoan civilisation, which was integral to the foundation of Greek culture over four millennia ago. With admission and a guided tour included, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the mysteries and history of this ancient world.After our insightful visit, we'll journey through Cretes magnificent mountain landscapes, heading south to the picturesque seafront town of Agia Galini. Known for its serpentine streets, charming fishing port, and bustling taverns, this town also offers a chance to relax and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the Libyan Sea. Lunch is yours to arrange and enjoy in the scenic surroundings.As the day winds down, well make our way back to Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Please note that from November to April, due to seasonal closures, our visit will instead take us to Matala, a town famed for its stunning beach and striking cliff-carved caves.

Today, our adventure takes us east along the Cretan coastline. Our first destination is the quaint village of Kritsa, where we will visit Panagia Kera, a revered 13th-century church known for its striking frescoes. The admission cost is included in your itinerary. Continuing on, we reach Agios Nikolaos, a charming seaside town with a natural harbour, offering the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll and lunch break.After lunch, we head to Elounda, a former city-state that has blossomed into a popular tourist spot. Here, we will embark on a boat journey to Spinalonga Island. This island is renowned for its Venetian fortress, which later served as a leper colony for many years. Youll have the chance to explore this historic site before we return by boat to Elounda. Our day concludes with a drive back to Heraklion, where youll settle into your accommodation for the evening.

On the morning of Day 14, we will transfer you to the port to catch a high-speed ferry to the enchanting island of Santorini. Expect to arrive between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. Once there, we'll whisk you away by bus through breathtaking landscapes to Oia, renowned as one of the islands most picturesque towns. With its dazzling whitewashed streets, stunning cliffside views, and charming remnants of a castle and windmills, you'll have ample time to wander, take in a leisurely lunch, and soak up the atmosphere. Following Oia, our next stop is Fira, the vibrant capital of Santorini. You have the option here to descend to the port via cable car or by donkey, where you can admire the view of the anchored cruise ships. Later in the afternoon, we will make our way back to the port to board a high-speed ferry departing around 3:15 p.m. Our journey concludes late this evening, with an anticipated arrival in Athens around midnight. Please note that from November to mid-April, the ferry service from Heraklion to Santorini is unavailable. During these months, the journey will be completed with a flight from Heraklion to Athens instead.

Begin your day in Athens with a guided city tour, exploring its historical and modern attractions. Discover the Presidential Mansion, an iconic symbol of Greek democracy, and visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the impressive venue for the first modern Olympic Games. We will then delve into the citys intellectual heritage by stopping at the National Library, before taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city centres bustling squares. As we tour the newer neighbourhoods, you'll notice the developments that followed the 2004 Olympic Games. Our tour concludes at the Acropolis, a must-see landmark that stands as a testament to ancient Greek civilisationplease note that entry is not included.In the evening, we will whisk you away to the historic neighbourhood of Plaka. Here, you can explore its enchanting streets lined with traditional Greek tavernas, perfect for tasting local delicacies. Plaka offers a unique chance to soak in the rich folklore and cultural ambiance of Greece, making it an ideal end to your exploration of Athens.

Following breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories to take home.