Highlights of Italy and Greece

Discover the marvelous city of Florence! Meet your English-speaking guide at your hotel, and kick off your walking tour from the majestic cathedral nearby. Known as ‘Duomo’ for its spectacular dome, find out more about the history behind the structure even as you admire its beauty and form as an architectural feat. From the city’s Roman foundations, move on to its journey leading up to the Renaissance; admire the impressive gate of the baptistery and the famous sculptures. Stop by the leather market and see the city’s revered mascot, before carrying on to the bank of the Arno river from where you can enjoy a sweeping view of Ponte Vecchio, a picturesque old bridge. Once you cross the bridge, continue through the secret corridor built by the legendary Medici family and arrive at the Uffizi Courtyard and the Piazza Signoria, which used to be the city’s political center. Explore its iteration as an open-air gallery today, filled with beautiful sculptures including a copy of Michelangelo’s masterpiece David. Wrap up your tour with a visit to the bustling artisans’ market. (Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Guide will meet you at your hotel; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please note that the English-speaking guide is included as a part of the tour, while the entrance fees to the monuments are NOT included. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes, and carry a light raincoat or umbrella.)

Explore the Chianti region and taste the fine wines it has to offer on this immersive tour. Make your way to the starting point to meet your guide and travel across the world-famous Tuscan countryside. The region is known for its Chianti Classico, synonymous with the symbol of the black rooster, which is prominently displayed in the villages here. Pass charming country towns, verdant vineyards, and lush olive groves that make for a scenic picture. Along the way, learn about the history of wine and olive oil in the region and the traditions associated with them. Stop at a mill that uses centuries-old techniques together with modern technology to extract delicious gourmet olive oil. Gain insight into the process of harvesting and pressing the olives, before you sample the final product. Later, visit three wineries and their cellars for an in-depth understanding of the process of wine-making and aging techniques used by Tuscan winemakers. Find out from a sommelier how Sangiovese, Canaiolo and different varieties of red grapes are blended to make exquisite wines. Learn about the distinguishing characteristics of each wine such as its acidity, unique taste and flavor pairing with food. Taste some of the wines before you head out to explore a typical Tuscan village. Relish a local lunch and take in the beauty of the landscape before it’s time to drive back. (Duration: full day; Time: 0930 hrs; Shared activity & transfers; Group size: max 16 ppl; Self organized transfers to the meeting point; Meeting point: Florencetown Booking Office, Piazza Mentana, 3, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy; Meals included: tastings & lunch; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Please note that children under the age of 18 will be served only non-alcoholic beverages)

Discover the ancient monuments of the city with this interesting walking exploration. Set off with your knowledgeable guide for the open-air market at Piazza Campo de Fiori with its colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, crafts, and other items. Browse through the market as you take a short break before heading on to bustling Navona Square. Stroll around looking at the fountains, churches, and palaces around the square that are the works of famous artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini. Walk on till you come upon the magnificent Pantheon, once a temple devoted to pagan deities that now serves as a Christian basilica. Saunter past Palazzo Madama, the seat of the Italian senate, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius constructed in honor of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. Leave behind Palazzo Montecitorio, the seat of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, as you make your way to the famous shopping street of Via Condotti with its exclusive boutiques. Amble to the end of the street to the iconic Trevi Fountain made famous by the 1960 movie La Dolce Vita. You could throw a coin into the fountain before heading on to the Spanish Steps with its sloping staircase and the elegant Barcaccia fountain. (Half Day; Private Activity & self organized transfer if required; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for church visits.)

Learn the art of making authentic tiramisu and artisanal gelato from professional chefs in Rome. First you will be introduced to the world of gelato, and how important organic, good quality produce is to the outcome. Taste different flavours and learn about the difference between ice cream and gelato. Then, wear your apron and follow the chef’s instructions to prepare tiramisu, starting with baking biscuits. Follow a step by step process to prepare this delicious dessert, and learn all the secrets to make it in the most authentic way. Sit down for the tasting, and take home the recipes and some wonderful memories of authentic Italian cooking alongside local connoisseurs. (Duration: 2 hrs; Times: 1530 hrs; Shared Activity: Max 6 guests; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that this activity is available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays; Meeting Point: Emporio Sant’Eustachio, Via della Maddalena n° 36, Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior.)

Visit the glorious Vatican Museums, an expansive complex that houses the world’s largest private art collection across 54 galleries and two papal palaces. Admire the stunning architecture and the elegant décor as you enter the premises and walk through the corridors. Accompanying passionate expert guides, absorb centuries of history via anecdotes and hidden details that bring the art to life, showcasing the power and politics of the Vatican City. Amid this treasure trove of priceless art including works by master painters and celebrated artists, see magnificent frescoes, rare sculptures, and prized paintings. Navigate the many rooms including favorites such as the Gallery of the Candelabra, Gallery of Tapestries, and the Gallery of the Maps featuring painted topographical maps of Italy. Take a break at the airy Belvedere Courtyard. Stepping inside the Sistine Chapel, marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings. Observe scenes from the Old Testament, with hidden symbols of Judaism. Continue further to the ornate St Peter’s Basilica, considered the world’s largest and the most important church, thanks to the crypt that serves as a site of pilgrimage for Catholics. After browsing Bernini’s Baldachin, climb the dome for a close look at the ceiling mosaics, and enjoy the best view of Rome, concluding an experience of a lifetime! (Half Day; Time: 1430 hrs; Shared Activity with max group size 12 guests; One way shared transfer to the meeting point from centrally located hotel; Fitness level: easy-moderate, Please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Please wear appropriate clothing – shorts, miniskirts and uncovered shoulders are not allowed in the Basilica – and comfortable walking shoes. If St. Peter’s Basilica is being used for a religious ceremony or function, the tour will continue outside.)

Discover contemporary Mykonos, as you explore the narrow alleyways of Chora, with its lively bars, boutiques, and bougainvillea blooms. Stroll through the neighborhood and coastal streets in the company of your expert local guide. Learn about traditional Cycladic architecture and the white cubist-style buildings with blue accents that are characteristic of Greek islands. See the iconic windmills that highlight Mykonos’ skyline and the colorful fishermen’s houses of Little Venice, among other landmarks. Between breaks at small squares, stop by a local cafe, and the family-run Gioras bakery. Sip on Greek coffee and taste Mykonian specialties including kopanisti cheese, amygdalota sweets and kalathakia (almond tarts). (Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Tasting included; Fitness level: Easy; Notes: Wear comfortable walking shoes).

Embark on a day-long sailing cruise in the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, around Mykonos. Explore the beautiful beaches along the southern coast, or visit nearby islands including Delos and Rhenia to see some archaeological treasures. Get a glimpse into the world of sailing while interacting with your skipper and crew. Pick up a few sailing skills, like trimming the sails. Lazing on the bow, enjoy the Mediterranean sun, or stop at secluded bays and hidden coves for a pleasant swim. Drop anchor at select spots to try a snorkeling session. Have a hearty meal with traditional Mykonian favorites matched with Greek wines on board. Take one more dip before you make the journey back! (Full Day; Shared Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy; Notes: Bring swimwear and deck shoes)

Explore Mykonos on your own time, at your own pace. From traditional Cycladic architecture to a vibrant nightlife, the town has plenty to offer. Be sure to check out the iconic windmills. Spot the famed pelicans wandering about the Old Port neighborhood. Visit organic wineries and farms in Ano Mera and sample the local wines. You could take short hikes or bicycle rides to the Armenistis Lighthouse, and secluded beaches on the northern coast, passing through the scenic countryside covered in wildflowers. Drop by the Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum of Mykonos, for glimpses into the island’s history. Watch a film at the open-air Cine Manto. Sail around Mykonos in a catamaran, try diving in the Paradise Reef to get a closer look at the fascinating marine life. Try Mykonian favorites such as kopanisti cheeses, kalathaki almond cakes, and louza pork slices, complemented by regional beverages. Enjoy the locally-made craft beer on a tasting tour of Mykonos Brewing Company. (Full Day; Self-explore Activity; Fitness level: Easy)