Italy & Greece 11 days
About This Experience
Take a look inside the two cultures that unanimously shaped western civilization. As you make your way through Italy and Greece’s most iconic cities and legendary landscapes, you’ll walk through the backdrops of ancient mythology and in the footsteps of emperors. Watch as history comes to life in Athens and Rome, and sit back and savor the good life in sunny Sorrento and the Isle of Capri.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
9 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 4 three-course dinners with beer or wine
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
You’ll experience two sides of the Mediterranean
The world-famous ruins of Athens and Rome
You’ll walk through the backdrops of mythology
The Isle of Capri couldn’t be more breathtaking
A stay in seaside Sorrento both soothes and restores
Pizza, spanakopita, wine—you’ll never tire of eating
Overnight Flight1 night
Sorrento2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Day3
Cruise the Bay of Naples and float into a true blue paradise
Breakfast
Island cruise
A day trip takes you from Sorrento across the Bay of Naples to the famed Isle of Capri, whose magnificent vistas have been celebrated ever since the days of the early Roman emperors. You’ll visit the village of Capri and, weather permitting, journey by boat around the island to view its many caves and grottos. Return to Sorrento, where you might wish to attend our optional Tarantella Dinner and Show, featuring dinner at the theatre and a lively performance highlighting the tarantella, a mesmerizing Italian folk dance.
Optional Excursions
Tarantella Dinner & Show $79* pp
Tarantella dancing is a centuries-old folk tradition in this part of Italy. Tarantella is the Italian word for tarantula, and the frenzied steps of the dance are said to be designed for sweating out the poison if one is bitten by a tarantula. Savor a locally prepared dinner at the Teatro Tasso, then watch a live performance featuring the intricate footwork of the tarantella, demonstrated by a troupe of authentic folk dancers. Please note: This optional is seasonal from March 1-November 1.
Rome3 nights - hotel info
Day4
Walk among 2,000-year-old temples, theaters and homes frozen in time
Breakfast, Dinner
Pompeii ruins
Leave the seaside town of Sorrento for the eternal grandeur of Rome today, stopping along the way to explore the legendary ruins of Pompeii. When Mount Vesuvius erupted nearly 2,000 years ago, it covered this Roman resort town in volcanic ash, perfectly preserving its temples, theaters and homes. Now that nearly the entire site has been excavated, you can join a sightseeing guide for a firsthand look at what life was once like for wealthy citizens of the ancient Roman Empire. Arrive in Rome this evening and join your group for an included dinner.
Day5
Ancient history induces modern awe in Imperial Rome
Breakfast
Colosseum
This morning, follow over 2,000 years of history during a sightseeing tour of Imperial Rome. You’ll also view the Forum—the ancient meeting place of the Romans—as well as the Colosseum. You’ll then have a free afternoon to continue your explorations of the city. Later, opt to join our Dinner with Tenors excursion.
Optional Excursions
Dinner with Tenors $79* pp
End your day with an elegant four-course dinner at one of our favorite Roman restaurants. While you dine, you’ll be treated to some of opera's best-loved arias…and you might even join the singers on stage. Don’t miss this lighthearted evening of food and fun!
Day6
Wander freely or take a look inside the world’s smallest state
Breakfast
This morning, join an optional excursion to Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. You’ll also see Michelangelo’s Pieta. Otherwise, you have an entire day on your own to explore or relax in Rome.
Optional Excursions
Vatican City $85* pp
This guided tour takes you inside the world’s smallest state, Vatican City. Upon arrival, you'll first visit the Vatican Museums, which recently celebrated a 500-year anniversary and hold many of the world's most important Classical and Renaissance-era sculptures. Next, you'll visit the Sistine Chapel, where you'll gaze on what is perhaps Michelangelo's greatest masterpiece. Finally, you'll visit the enormous St. Peter’s Basilica, the epicenter of the Roman Catholic faith. The artists whose efforts have contributed to its glory are some of the best Italy has ever known, including Bramante, Peruzzi, Raphael and Michelangelo. Masterpieces await at every turn, from Bernini’s magnificent bronze canopy to Michelangelo’s Pietà. Please note: This excursion is not available on Sunday. Advanced reservation and booking is required prior to your final payment deadline.
Nauplion2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Day8
Visit the venue where ancient Greeks savored their dramas
Breakfast
Epidaurus Amphitheatre, Mycenae Archeological Site
Surrounded by lush green landscape, Epidaurus has access to the sea and beautiful sandy beaches. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and visit Greece’s best-preserved ampitheater. Later, examine some of the archaeological treasures at Mycenae.
Athens2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Bustling, breathtaking, welcome to the original City on a Hill
Breakfast
Acropolis site
Today a local guide introduces you to the highlights of this bustling ancient capital. On your tour of the Acropolis—the original City on a Hill—you can walk amid the ruins of the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike with its graceful statue of the goddess Athena. Notice that she has no wings, a symbolic gesture to keep her from deserting the city. Descending from the Acropolis, view the Presidential Guard in their traditional costumes and the classically inspired Greek Parliament. Then pass through Syntagma Square, where you’ll see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Tonight, savor classical Greek cuisine at an optional Greek Folklore Evening with dinner, where you’ll enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Optional Excursions
Greek Folklore Evening $75* pp
Head down to Athens' lively Plaka district for a night of food and fun. You'll enjoy Greek specialties along with a showcase of traditional dances from across Greece, including the well-known plate dance. Careful, though: our travelers have been known to jump on stage and join in the fun. Opa!
Day10
Relax among ruins and polished promenades, today Athens is all yours
Breakfast, Dinner
Today is yours to explore the many wonders of Athens at your own pace. Or you might join an optional morning excursion to Cape Sounion to view the Temple of Poseidon. This evening, rejoin your group for tonight’s Farewell Dinner.
Optional Excursions
Cape Sounion $35* pp
Journey to the southern tip of the Attic Peninsula to take in the sights of the Poseidon Coast, including sandy beaches, natural and manmade harbors and, of course, the Aegean Sea itself. High above the sparkling shoreline, the Temple of Poseidon dominates the landscape. Of the original structure, 16 elegant Doric pillars remain. Afterward, decide how you'd like to spend your free time. Take a moment to look out from the lofty cliffside vantage point, where you can see five Aegean islands on a clear day. You may also choose to enjoy a coffee, stop in the souvenir shop or stroll through the area. Please note: This excursion involves some walking on uneven terrain.
Extend Your Stay
Add Santorini & Athens $639*
Once thought to be the lost city of Atlantis, the volcanic island of Santorini is now known for its black-sand beaches, sprawling vineyards and cliff-lined shores. The island’s volcanic soil is ideal for harvesting grapes, making it a world-class wine producer. As you soak in the Mediterranean sunset each night, be sure to sample a glass (or two) of Santorini’s labels. During your stay, you’ll also discover the area’s rich history on a local guided tour and a visit to the museum of Akrotiri, a Minoan colony buried in volcanic ash 3,600 years ago.
Santorini3 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Day3
It just wouldn’t be right to leave without sampling a glass of white
Breakfast
Today is a free day to explore on your own. This afternoon, partake in an optional Greek Wine Tasting and Lunch.
Optional Excursions
Greek Wine Tasting & Lunch $45* pp
Santorini was once a volcano, and the island's nutrient-rich soil nurtures some outstanding vineyards. On this excursion, you'll enjoy a tour through a local winery followed by a wine tasting and an included lunch overlooking the Aegean.
Athens1 night - hotel info
Day4
Get reacquainted with Athens (distance makes the heart grow fonder)
Breakfast
Enjoy a final morning in Santorini before traveling back to Athens, where you’ll have a free afternoon to spend at your leisure. Consider a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of antiquities. Or shop for handicrafts in the shops along Pandrossou Street.
About This Experience
Take a look inside the two cultures that unanimously shaped western civilization. As you make your way through Italy and Greece’s most iconic cities and legendary landscapes, you’ll walk through the backdrops of ancient mythology and in the footsteps of emperors. Watch as history comes to life in Athens and Rome, and sit back and savor the good life in sunny Sorrento and the Isle of Capri.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
9 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 4 three-course dinners with beer or wine
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
You’ll experience two sides of the Mediterranean
The world-famous ruins of Athens and Rome
You’ll walk through the backdrops of mythology
The Isle of Capri couldn’t be more breathtaking
A stay in seaside Sorrento both soothes and restores
Pizza, spanakopita, wine—you’ll never tire of eating
Overnight Flight1 night
Sorrento2 nights - hotel info
Day2
Day3
Cruise the Bay of Naples and float into a true blue paradise
Breakfast
Island cruise
A day trip takes you from Sorrento across the Bay of Naples to the famed Isle of Capri, whose magnificent vistas have been celebrated ever since the days of the early Roman emperors. Visit the village of Capri and, weather permitting, journey by boat around the island to view its many caves and grottos. Return to Sorrento, where you might wish to attend our optional Tarantella Dinner and Show, featuring dinner at the theater and a lively performance highlighting the tarantella, an Italian folk dance.
Optional Excursions
Tarantella Dinner & Show $79* pp
Tarantella dancing is a centuries-old folk tradition in this part of Italy. Tarantella is the Italian word for tarantula, and the frenzied steps of the dance are said to be designed for sweating out the poison if one is bitten by a tarantula. Savor a locally prepared dinner at the Teatro Tasso, then watch a live performance featuring the intricate footwork of the tarantella, demonstrated by a troupe of authentic folk dancers. Please note: This optional is seasonal from March 1-November 1.
Rome3 nights - hotel info
Day4
Walk among 2,000-year-old temples, theaters and homes frozen in time
Breakfast, Dinner
Pompeii ruins
Leave the seaside town of Sorrento for the eternal grandeur of Rome, stopping along the way to explore the legendary ruins of Pompeii. When Mount Vesuvius erupted nearly 2,000 years ago, it covered this Roman resort town in volcanic ash, perfectly preserving its temples, theaters and homes. Now that nearly the entire site has been excavated, you can join a sightseeing guide for a firsthand look at what life was once like for citizens of the ancient Roman Empire. Arrive in Rome this evening, and join your group for an included dinner.
Day5
Ancient history induces modern awe in Imperial Rome
Breakfast
Colosseum
This morning, follow over 2,000 years of history during a sightseeing tour of Imperial Rome. You’ll also view the Forum—the ancient meeting place of the Romans—as well as the Colosseum. You’ll then have a free afternoon to continue your explorations of the city. Later, opt to join our optional excursion Dinner with Tenors.
Optional Excursions
Dinner with Tenors $79* pp
End your day with an elegant four-course dinner at one of our favorite Roman restaurants. While you dine, you’ll be treated to some of opera's best-loved arias…and you might even join the singers on stage. Don’t miss this lighthearted evening of food and fun!
Day6
Wander freely or take a look inside the world’s smallest state
Breakfast
This morning, join an optional excursion to Vatican City, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. You’ll also see Michelangelo’s Pieta. Otherwise, you have an entire day on your own to explore or relax in Rome.
Optional Excursions
Vatican City $85* pp
This guided tour takes you inside the world’s smallest state, Vatican City. Upon arrival, you'll first visit the Vatican Museums, which recently celebrated a 500-year anniversary and hold many of the world's most important Classical and Renaissance-era sculptures. Next, you'll visit the Sistine Chapel, where you'll gaze on what is perhaps Michelangelo's greatest masterpiece. Finally, you'll visit the enormous St. Peter’s Basilica, the epicenter of the Roman Catholic faith. The artists whose efforts have contributed to its glory are some of the best Italy has ever known, including Bramante, Peruzzi, Raphael and Michelangelo. Masterpieces await at every turn, from Bernini’s magnificent bronze canopy to Michelangelo’s Pietà. Please note: This excursion is not available on Sunday. Advanced reservation and booking is required prior to your final payment deadline.
Nauplion2 nights - hotel info
Day7
Day8
Visit the venue where ancient Greeks savored their dramas
Breakfast
Epidaurus Amphitheatre, Mycenae Archeological Site
Surrounded by lush green landscapes, Epidaurus grants access to the sea and beautiful sandy beaches. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and visit Greece’s best-preserved ampitheatre. Later, examine some of the archaeological treasures at Mycenae.
Athens2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Bustling, breathtaking, welcome to the original City on a Hill
Breakfast
Acropolis site
A local guide introduces you to the highlights of this bustling ancient capital. On your tour of the Acropolis—the original City on a Hill—you can walk amid the ruins of the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike with its graceful statue of the goddess Athena. Notice that she has no wings, a symbolic gesture to keep her from deserting the city. Descending from the Acropolis, view the Presidential Guard in their traditional costumes and the classically inspired Greek Parliament. Then, pass through Syntagma Square, where you’ll see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Tonight, savor classical Greek cuisine at our optional Greek Folklore Evening featuring a dinner highlighting the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Optional Excursions
Greek Folklore Evening $75* pp
Head down to Athens' lively Plaka district for a night of food and fun. You'll enjoy Greek specialties along with a showcase of traditional dances from across Greece, including the well-known plate dance. Careful, though: our travelers have been known to jump on stage and join in the fun. Opa!
Day10
Relax among ruins and polished promenades, today Athens is all yours
Breakfast, Dinner
Today is yours to explore the many wonders of Athens at your own pace. Or, you might join an optional morning excursion to Cape Sounion to view the Temple of Poseidon. This evening, rejoin your group for tonight’s farewell dinner.
Optional Excursions
Cape Sounion $35* pp
Journey to the southern tip of the Attic Peninsula to take in the sights of the Poseidon Coast, including sandy beaches, natural and manmade harbors and, of course, the Aegean Sea itself. High above the sparkling shoreline, the Temple of Poseidon dominates the landscape. Of the original structure, 16 elegant Doric pillars remain. Afterward, decide how you'd like to spend your free time. Take a moment to look out from the lofty cliffside vantage point, where you can see five Aegean islands on a clear day. You may also choose to enjoy a coffee, stop in the souvenir shop or stroll through the area. Please note: This excursion involves some walking on uneven terrain.
Extend Your Stay
Add Santorini & Athens $599*
Once thought to be the lost city of Atlantis, the volcanic island of Santorini is now known for its black-sand beaches, sprawling vineyards and cliff-lined shores. The island’s volcanic soil is ideal for harvesting grapes, making it a world-class wine producer. As you soak in the Mediterranean sunset each night, be sure to sample a glass (or two) of Santorini’s labels. During your stay, you’ll also discover the area’s rich history on a local guided tour and a visit to the museum of Akrotiri, a Minoan colony buried in volcanic ash 3,600 years ago.
Santorini3 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Unlock the Aegean island culture through the eyes of a local
Breakfast
Akrotiri Excavations & Museum
This morning, admire splendid views of Santorini as you discover the sights on your guided tour. You’ll also visit the Akrotiri Excavations, located in Akrotiri, a town located on the southwestern side of Santorini.
Day3
It just wouldn’t be right to leave without sampling a glass of white
Breakfast
Today is a free day to explore on your own. This afternoon, partake in an optional Greek Wine Tasting and Lunch.
Optional Excursions
Greek Wine Tasting & Lunch $45* pp
Santorini was once a volcano, and the island's nutrient-rich soil nurtures some outstanding vineyards. On this excursion, you'll enjoy a tour through a local winery followed by a wine tasting and an included lunch overlooking the Aegean.
Athens1 night - hotel info
Day4
Get reacquainted with Athens (distance makes the heart grow fonder)
Breakfast
Enjoy a final morning in Santorini before traveling back to Athens, where you’ll have a free afternoon to spend at your leisure. Consider a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of antiquities. Or shop for handicrafts in the shops along Pandrossou Street.
Passport & Visa
In order to enter Italy and Greece, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return home. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Health
There are no major health risks associated with traveling to Italy or Greece. During the summer months, take proper care for sun exposure. Also, codeine (the drug commonly found in headache preparations) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country.
Cuisine
Most of the staples of the Italian diet have become favorites in America, but on your tour, be sure to try those less familiar pasta sauces and the vast range of cured hams, cheeses, rustic breads and desserts. Greece’s warm climate ensures a constant supply of high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables. Salads are excellent here, usually served with aromatic olive oil and topped with feta cheese and oregano. Simple grilled fish and meat are also integral to Greek cuisine. Barbecued lamb, squid, octopus, spinach and cheese pies, baked eggplant and zucchini are other common dishes.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Round-trip flights arrive in Naples and depart from Athens. When you first arrive in Naples, a Go Ahead representative will meet you at the airport. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival. This tour also includes a flight from Rome to Athens.
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you’ll have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Clothing and Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The euro is the currency you’ll be using on your tour. We advise that you take a combination of ATM/bank cards and credit cards. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalency of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalency of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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Family Trip of a lifetime!
My wife and I planned a trip to Europe with our two daughters (in their mid-20's) as one of those "bucket list" things we have wanted to do as a family, before they got settled into married life etc. We finally settled on the "Italy and Greece" tour with Go Ahead based on the quality and value my wife and I experienced with Go Ahead on the "Best of France and Italy" tour we did in Sept. 2008. Having just finished our Italy and Greece tour a little more than a week ago, I have to say Go Ahead delivered once again - big time! Our trip was fabulous in every way. Our Tour Director, Michael, was top notch and added so much to our enjoyment of the tour - in more ways than we can say. We thought Sorrento, Capri and Rome would be tough to beat for food, culture, history and wine but Greece surprised us and was at least equal in every way! Nauplion and especially Santorini are stunningly beautiful. Athens and Rome are very similar in terms of metropolitan opportunities for learning history, experiencing the culture, etc. Since it was our daughters first trip to Europe, it was so pleasing to see them wanting to learn about history and to experience the culture of each country. This trip exceeded our expectations. My wife and I are already talking about our next tour with Go Ahead. Highly recommended!
Living history
My tour to Greece and Italy was fantastic. I really enjoyed the living history right before my eyes. Athens was phenomenal, from climbing up to the Acropolis to seeing the burial tomb of Agamemnon. Rome was incredible as well. Strolling through the side streets, shopping and eating my way through the city was the trip of a lifetime. My friends and I loved every minute of the tour.
Unforgettable Experience
This trip exceeded my expectations. I would not travel to Europe any other way, Go Ahead Tours is the way to travel!!! This was a real vacation, everything was SOOOOO organized, all I had to do was show up and have a good time. Thank you for making this an unforgettable experience!!!
Best trip thus far
Words can not begin to explain how much I thoroughly enjoyed my recent trip to Italy and Greece. I was extremely impressed by the efficency of the entire staff at Go Ahead. No detail was over looked. From our tour director to the tour guides to the bus drivers everyone was so warm and friendly. The food and accommodations were some of the best. It is hard to choose just one experience as my favorite because I enjoyed everyday. The Sistine chapel was breathtaking, the Colosseum- amazing, and Poseidon's temple- out of this world!! I would recommend this tour without any reservation!!!! I look forward to my next trip with Go Ahead.
Amazing
This trip was amazing! They took us to great hotels that were at walking distance to plaza's which helped a lot to walk to during our free nights. Our tour guide accomadated everyone as much as possible. All of the excursions were absoulutely amazing and everything is VERY well organized. You will not have to worry about ANYTHING except be at the meeting location at the time they tell you. They even take your suitcases to the bus when needed!
Fabulous Trip with Great Friends/New Friends
This was my third tour (one with EF Student Tours) -- all were unique in their own way. The only down side for this trip was that it was 105 degrees and very humid. If it had been a little cooler, we could have enjoyed the hiking, ruins, etc. much more. As it was, we couldn't enjoy the tour guides explanations because we were all desperately looking for shade to keep cool! However, the weather is not Go Ahead's fault, so we can't blame the heat on them, so that is no reflection of the service and value that we got with our tour. That was amazing! I'll be back!!!
I "Heart" Europe
I was extremely pleased with my trip to Italy and Greece through Go Ahead Tours. Every day I said “this was worth every penny…the best ideal I’ve had thus far”. It’s amazing as I sit back and think about how much we conquered in 11 days; Isle of Capri, Pompeii, Colosseum, Cape Sounion etc. Yet when I returned home I was not tired, there is a good balance of site seeing and down time, you never feel like you’re doing too much. And don’t let me get started on the best tour director ever! Rachel White period, she is fluent in five languages and has lived in both of the countries we visited. Having such a logistically sound and experienced tour director made my visit effortless and relaxing! I would definitely recommend this tour, especially if it will be your first trip to Europe, a great introduction.
very enjoyable trip
Relaxing , enjoyable and full of art and history
Excellent Tour of Italy and Greece
Amazing trip all around. Our tour director Rachel made it especially memorable as she went over and above by arranging some fun side trips on our time off. I made many friends with our fellow group members and I can honestly say that I wouldn't have asked for better people to travel with. We saw some ancient wonders that I only read about in history books and I'm still trying to wrap my head around how old some of the ruins were (5 centuries B.C.???) Although it was incredibly hot and humid, I wouldn't have traded this experience for anything. And did I mention the amazing food and wine at almost every meal?
Awesome 1st European experience
This trip was awesome! It had just enough information about the various sites that you had a little background info and also provided ample time for you to go around and take pictures and have free time as well. Our tour director was amazing! This was my first time in Europe and will definitely use her as the standard for future trips I take. She arranged for us to go on an unscheduled tour of Rome at night to see the major structures illuminated as well as got us a chartered boat ride on the Aegean Sea to an island to swim and have dinner. None of this was including but after hearing some of the comments we made took it upon herself to set these things up! Thank you Rachel!
