From Rome to Athens

9 or 13 days

Italy, Greece, extension to Greek Islands

It’s impossible to overstate the influence of Ancient Rome and Greece on our modern-day society; seeing monuments from those civilizations is a profound experience.
From the Colosseum to the Parthenon to the expansive archaeological sites at Pompeii, Epidaurus and Mycenae, walk in the footsteps of the men and women who set the stage for the development of Western culture.

The Santorini and Crete extension is available for departures beginning May 1. Groups departing in March and April will visit Naxos and Santorini instead. For additional details, please contact your Tour Consultant.

Due to national and/or religious holidays, some sites may be closed and your itinerary may be modified on the following dates in 2026: March 19, March 25, April 3-8, April 12, May 1, June 29, and August 14-15. These dates fluctuate each year—please contact us for more information.

Image displaying map describing the itinerary of the From Rome to Athens tour

Day 1: Fly overnight to Italy

Day 2: Rome

Meet your Tour Director at the destination airport

Day 3: Rome

Take a guided tour of Rome

With your expert local guide you will visit:

Roman Forum
Colosseum

Take a self-guided walking tour of Rome

You will see:

Trevi Fountain
Pantheon
Piazza Navona
Spanish Steps

Day 4: Rome

Take a guided tour of Vatican City

With your expert local guide you will visit:

Sistine Chapel
Vatican Museums

Enjoy time to explore St. Peter's Basilica on your own

Add this in-depth excursion:

Roman Catacombs

Explore the mysterious world buried beneath Rome since the 2nd century, featuring Christian burial grounds, priceless relics, and world-class art. Afterward, journey down the ancient Appian Way to a historic Roman basilica. Note: Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. This excursion is not recommended for those who are claustrophobic.

Day 5: Rome • Pompeii

Take a day trip to Pompeii

Tour the ruins of Pompeii with an expert local guide

Day 6: Rome • Athens • Argolida region

Fly to Athens

See the Corinth Canal

Enjoy a short boat ride through Nafplio Bay (weather permitting)

Day 7: Argolida region • Epidaurus • Mycenae • Athens

Travel to Athens via Epidaurus and Mycenae

Tour Epidaurus and Mycenae with an expert local guide

Partake in a hands-on pottery workshop in Mycenae

Day 8: Athens

Take a guided tour of Athens

With your expert local guide you will:

See the Ancient Olympic Stadium
See Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens
Visit the Acropolis

Visit the Acropolis Museum, home to ancient ruins and prehistoric artifacts

Take a walking tour of Athens

With your Tour Director you will see:

Plaka district
Athenian Trilogy

Add this in-depth excursion:

Greek evening

Friends, feta, and fresh Mediterranean flavors—opa! Stuff yourself like an olive during a traditional Greek dinner. Then, link arms for a night of music and dancing. You might even get to experience the famous plate-smashing tradition. Whatever the night brings, you'll enjoy a lively celebration and experience the best of Greece’s theatrical culture.

Day 9: Depart for home

Add 4 more days

Day 9: Athens • Santorini

Fly to Santorini

Take a walking tour of the coastal village of Perissa and see the famous black sand beach

Take a walking tour of Pyrgos, a hilltop village situated at one of the highest points in Santorini

Travel to Oia village

Take a walking tour of Oia, one of the most photographed places in Greece

Enjoy free time and take in one of Oia's world-famous sunsets

Day 10: Santorini • Heraklion

Explore Santorini on your own

Take a ferry or hydrofoil to Heraklion, the capital of Crete