A Journey to Italy and Greece: Discovering the Heart of the Mediterranean

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Curated By

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  • Italy

  • Greece

  • Food & Wine

  • Arts & Culture

  • Active Travel

  • Local Food

  • Local Culture

  • Sightseeing

  • Outdoors

Santorini sea view
Fora’s Take

If you're wanting an incredible experience of culture, delicious food, incredible nature and breathtaking ocean views, a journey through Italy and Greece is for you!

Taste and breathe the history, art, and flavors that define these incredible countries. From the bustling streets of Rome to the artistic treasures of Florence and the incredible views from Santorini, this trip is an immersive experience of a lifetime. It's about strolling through centuries of history, indulging in local culinary delights, and capturing moments that will become cherished memories.

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Day 1: Bella Roma - Welcome to Rome!

Trevi fountain view

Kristen Ashton

Check into the stunning Six Senses Hotel in Rome, an aesthetically and beautifully designed hotel, where you'll be welcomed with unparalleled luxury and stunning views of the city.

In the evening, explore the iconic Spanish Steps and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

For Dinner, dine at the legendary Ristorante Il Pagliaccio, a Michelin-starred restaurant where Chef Anthony Genovese crafts innovative Italian dishes that play with flavors and textures.

Day 2: Rome - Colosseum, Vatican, and More!

Colosseum side view

Explore the Colosseum, an architectural marvel that once hosted epic gladiator battles.

Walk through the Roman Forum, where ancient history comes to life.

Dive into the trendy neighborhood of Monti, known for its unique shops and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy local street food for lunch.

For lunch, we recommend Ristorante Passetto, located near the Vatican, famous for its amazing coffee as well as pasta dishes. After your cultural explorations, indulge in a dinner at Aroma Restaurant, located on the rooftop of Palazzo Manfredi, offering breathtaking views of the Colosseum. Their Michelin-starred chef blends traditional Italian flavors with modern techniques.

Day 3: Rome - Vatican & Art

vatican city dome

Enjoy a visit to the Vatican Museums, home to an extensive collection of art and history.

Marvel at the Sistine Chapel's ceiling, painted by Michelangelo.

Admire the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, and if you're up for it, climb to the top for stunning panoramic views.

Treat your taste buds to authentic Italian pizza for lunch.

Day 4: Florence - The Birthplace of the Renaissance

Beautiful Florence

Take the high-speed train to Florence.

In Florence, stay at the Hotel Brunelleschi, a historic gem in the heart of the city.

Visit the Florence Cathedral, with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi. For lunch, we recommend the traditional Tuscan flavors at Il Latini, a classic trattoria.

Spend your afternoon exploring the renowned Uffizi Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art.

In the evening, savor the art of fine dining at a fine-tuned Michelin-starred, Enoteca Pinchiorri, where Chef Riccardo Monco turns each dish into a work of art.

Day 5: Florence - Artistic Masterpieces

florence city buildings top view

Meet Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery, and then stroll to Osteria All'Antico, Vinaio, known for its artisanal shops and for a classic Florentine sandwich, or "panino." In the evening, dine at Il Palagio, located in the Four Seasons Hotel, for an extraordinary tasting menu featuring local ingredients.

Conclude your day with a memorable Tuscan dinner featuring regional specialties and fine Chianti wine.

Day 6: Venice - The Floating City

Beautiful Venice

Board a train to Venice, the city of canals. We recommend staying at the Ca'Sagredo Hotel, a 15th-century palace overlooking the Grand Canal. For dinner, enjoy a magical dining experience at Quadri, a Michelin-starred restaurant in St. Mark's Square, where Chef Silvio Giavedoni crafts inventive Venetian dishes. Enjoy a romantic gondola ride down the Grand Canal.

Day 7: Venice - Palaces, Palazzos, and Pasta

people riding on boat in Venice river

St. Mark's Square is on today's agenda. Enjoy lunch at Osteria alle Testiere, a cozy seafood restaurant that epitomizes Venetian cuisine. For dinner, experience the charm of Trattoria da Fiore, which has been delighting guests with its authentic Venetian recipes for generations. Take a day trip to the Murano and Burano islands, where artisans have been crafting exquisite glass and lace for centuries. And, of course, feast on the freshest seafood in a canal-side restaurant.

Day 8: Athens, Greece - Where Gods and Mortals Collide

A building ruin with pillars on a sunny day.

Fly to Athens; We recommend staying at the luxurious Hotel Grande Bretagne, located just steps from the Acropolis, where you can pay homage to the Parthenon, a temple of epic proportions dedicated to the goddess Athena. Dive into the charming Plaka neighborhood, where you can wander through narrow alleys and colorful houses, and savor the aroma of Greek cuisine. For a traditional Greek lunch, visit To Kafeneio, a cozy taverna that serves dishes bursting with Greek flavors. In the evening, dine at the Michelin-starred Funky Gourmet, where Chefs Georgianna Hiliadaki and Nikos Roussos create avant-garde Greek cuisine.

Day 9: Athens - Museums and More

A building ruin with pillars on a sunny day.

Discover the National Archaeological Museum's treasures, including the stunning Mask of Agamemnon. Explore the historical Ancient Agora, where philosophers once debated, and the buzz of daily life echoed through the streets. Day trip alert: Visit Cape Sounion for breathtaking views at the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, where the golden hues of the setting sun create a mesmerizing display.

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani, a hidden gem that serves Greek charcuterie and artisanal cheeses. In the evening, dine at Varoulko Seaside, a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant where Chef Lefteris Lazarou showcases the best of the Aegean Sea.

Day 10: Santorini - The Island of Dreams

santorini white buildings on a sunny day

Take a ferry to the incredible Santorini. We recommend staying at Mystique -an incredible hotel Carved into the rugged Caldera cliffs, curved architecture and stunning views of the Aegean sea. Walk through the postcard-perfect town of Oia, where white-washed buildings cling to the cliffs, and blue-domed churches look out over the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea.

Savor lunch with a view at Ammoudi Fish Tavern, perched on the cliffs of Oia. In the evening, enjoy a spectacular sunset dinner at Selene, renowned for its modern interpretations of traditional Greek dishes.

Day 11: Santorini - Volcanoes and Beaches

santorini white buildings with sea view in backdrop on a sunny day

Explore Fira, the capital of Santorini, a bustling town filled with shops and restaurants. Unearth the secrets of the Akrotiri archaeological site, often called the "Minoan Pompeii." Then, kick back on the unique black-sand beaches of Kamari or Perissa, where the black sand contrasts against the turquoise waters.

Lunch at Metaxy Mas, a hidden gem tucked away in the village of Exo Gonia. In the evening, dine at Armeni Restaurant, where you can relish freshly caught seafood while gazing out at the beautiful Santorini sunset.

Day 12: Mykonos - Beach Vibes and Nightlife

dining tables in restaurants  with sea view in backdrop

Catch a ferry to Mykonos, a paradise for beach lovers and partygoers. We recommend staying at the Mykonos Blu Grecotel Boutique Resort, a beautiful boutique hotel that captures the Greek spirit with its color palette and architecture. Spend the day sunbathing and soaking up the island vibes on beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise.

For lunch, sample Greek dishes at Kiki's Tavern. For dinner, make your way to Kounelas Fish Tavern, where you can dive into the freshest seafood dishes on the island.

In the evening, venture into the lively town center, with a large collection of bars and clubs.

Day 13: Mykonos - Charming Streets and Windmills

stunning windmill with sea view on a sunny day

Get lost in the labyrinth of Mykonos Town's narrow streets, with charming shops and boutiques offering island souvenirs and much more. Visit the iconic windmills that stand tall on the hill overlooking the town, and the colorful buildings of Little Venice.

For lunch, dine at the picturesque Bakalo. For dinner, enjoy fresh Mediterranean cuisine at M-eating, a trendy restaurant overlooking the Old Port.

Day 14: Departure - But First, Souvenirs!

couple walking down the  main street to buy souvenir

Departure - But First, Souvenirs!

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy and travel to Greece.