Your dream of visiting the shining cities of Italy with budget travel in mind can easily come true. With seven days to see the sights from Rome to Venice—including Pisa, Verona, and Florence—your guided Italy tour is waiting. Majestic Rome, with its historical sites beyond compare, is your first discovery on this affordable Italy vacation. From St. Peter’s Square at the heart of the Vatican to the Colosseum, you’ll see why this “eternal city” is a must-see on every travel bucket list. From Rome, your escorted Italy tour takes you to Pisa and Florence through a gentle landscape of exquisite vineyards, olive groves, and the rolling hills of Tuscany. In Pisa, visit the Square of Miracles and see the famed leaning tower before heading to Florence— “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Take a guided walking tour of Florence to soak up the world-famous squares and palazzos of the ornate city, including the Duomo and the Baptistery’s bronze door (“Gate of Paradise”). Off to Venice, stop in Verona—the setting for Shakespeare’s fabled tragedy of Romeo & Juliet. See the ancient Roman Arena, which today is the home of the summer Opera Festival. From Verona, continue to romantic Venice, the city of unparalleled beauty. Take a boat to St. Mark’s square and gaze upon the canals with their gondolas and bridges. You can visit an original glassblowing workshop, discover the calli (narrow alleyways of Venice) and admire the exquisite palaces at your leisure for the perfect end to your inspiring Italy tour.

Join us on a budget-friendly vacation in Sicily—the Mediterranean’s largest island, just off the toe of Italy’s “boot.” Your discovery of this fascinating island, rich in culture, warm welcomes, and beauty starts in Palermo, a vibrant city of churches, squares, marketplaces, and palazzos of every style. Take in stunning views with a cable-car ride to the medieval hilltop town of Erice—with cobblestone streets, fortifications, ancient churches, and breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea and the Egadi Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of Trapani, set on a harbor that was once a powerful trading network, and visit Marsala, known for its aromatic wine. See the Acropolis and its temples in Selinunte, and take a guided tour of the spectacular ancient Greek temples near Agrigento. Visit the Roman Villa at Casale, famous for its mosaics, like the “Bikini Girls.” Visit elegant Taormina and the coastal town of Cefalù. Enjoy an excursion on Mount Etna, the majestic volcano overlooking the city of Catania, the verdant valleys, and the shimmering blue Mediterranean waters. Celebrate your Sicilian adventure ending your affordable adventure in Palermo.

Discover the beauty of the Italian Lakes on this magnificent vacation. With the Alps for a backdrop, you’ll enjoy nature at its finest—with overnights in Verona, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore. Plus, on this affordable Italian Lakes tour, you’ll spend one night in Milan, known as one of the world’s fashion capitals. Additionally, walk around medieval Verona, famous for the Roman Arena, home of the summer Opera Festival. Situated at the foot of the Alps, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake. With its cobalt-blue waters surrounded by majestic mountains, Lake Como is one of Europe’s deepest lakes, lined with elegant 17th-century villas and lush gardens; it’s the perfect destination. You will enjoy a scenic boat trip to Bellagio and Varenna, both picturesque towns on Lake Como’s shores, where nature and culture come together. Admire the centuries-old buildings, explore the cobbled alleyways, cafes, and shops. Lake Maggiore is a paradise of crystal waters, backed by towering mountains and surrounded by lush countryside. With its prestigious Italian gardens, intriguing palaces, and scenic landscapes, you can choose to relax or enjoy some of the many activities available. On the way to Lake Maggiore, visit Lugano, set on gorgeous Lake Lugano, shared between Italy and Switzerland. Here—with a Mediterranean ambiance—you can stroll along the lakeside promenade or simply unwind as you enjoy a delicious gelato. Over centuries, Italy’s great lakes have been among Europe’s most popular vacation destinations, providing enchanting landscapes and a relaxing ambiance. Now is your time to enjoy them on this affordable Italian Lakes tour. It’s a lovely vacation, perfect for savvy, value-minded travel lovers.

This regional affordable Italy discovery vacation begins and ends in Naples. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Naples provides visitors a wealth of folklore, history, and a rich culture of the ages. After a guided sightseeing tour of the city, you’ll be on your way to the Apulia region—the “heel of the boot” of Italy and one of the renowned holiday destinations of the Italian people thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and enchanting coastline with turquoise waters. Among the highlights of this Italy vacation you can look forward to the visit of the 13th-century Castel Del Monte on your way to the beautiful port of Bari. Unveil other surprising treasures, including the fascinating Castellana Grotte limestone caves, the conical-roofed Trulli houses of Alberobello, and Lecce’s Baroque architecture. You’ll also enjoy an excursion to Santa Maria di Leuca with its art nouveau beach huts, and Gallipoli’s underground olive press and winding streets. Your budget-minded vacation in Italy is never short on great food and drink, including the chance to learn about regional specialities on your visit to a Primitivo wine cellar in Manduria and an olive oil tasting session in the countryside. Before returning to Naples, relax for two nights in Fasano—surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Your affordable Italy tour of the Apulia region of Italy ends where it began—in Naples—where authentic Napoli pizza and espresso coffee await your return!

You’ve dreamed about Italy—its magnificent architecture, majestic cathedrals, ancient ruins, world-class art, sumptuous cuisine and wine, and relaxing cafés—and now it is your time to experience it. On this affordable Italy tour, explore the most famous cities and discover the unique sights as you visit Rome, Siena, Montecatini, and Venice. This affordable Italy tour offers the opportunity to step back in time. Imagine what life was like in Rome 2,000 years ago, as the city was the political, social, and trading center of the Roman Empire. Imagine life during the Middle Ages as you explore San Gimignano’s medieval squares, town walls, streets, alleyways, and 14 towers still standing. Visit Florence—the Renaissance gem—with a walking tour featuring beautiful Piazza Signoria, the hub of Florence’s social and political life since the 14th century. On this affordable tour of Italy, you’ll discover some of its magnificent cathedrals. In Vatican City, wonder at the masterful St. Peter’s Basilica and square. In Orvieto, the Cathedral is a great example of Gothic architecture in Italy. In Assisi, where St. Francis was born, the world-famous Romanesque and Gothic Basilica is a permanent exhibition of Giotto’s frescoes. See Pisa’s Square of Miracles—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—with its three famous buildings (Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistery) that have historically been central to religious life. From a more secular viewpoint, experience a wine tasting in Greve, the capital of Chianti, and visit Venice, including a boat ride to St. Mark’s Square. Witness Venetian glassblowers create works of art just as they did centuries ago, and spend free time admiring the crisscrossing canals, the legendary gondolas passing under the arched bridges, the palaces, and the quaint piazzas. All of this and more—including views of the most scenic Italian landscapes—are included on this fabulous Italy vacation designed for the value-minded travel lover.

On this affordable Italy tour small group discovery package, the town of Montecatini serves as your home base from which to venture out to explore the surrounding landscapes of breathtaking Tuscany and getting to know its culinary and wine traditions. You’ll indulge in picturesque scenery, world-class local wines, traditional cuisine, and cultural discoveries. From the rolling hills of Montalbano to Vinci and beyond, we’ll take you through bountiful vineyards, olive groves, and chestnut trees. You’ll even visit the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci to experience the Renaissance master’s life and art. Traveling through some of the most stunning and lush natural landscapes in Italy, you’ll embark to visit idyllic spots, including the gorgeous Chianti Valley and the Etruscan Coast. As you visit quaint wine shops, cafes, historic estates, and museums, you’ll feel immersed in the history and traditions of each destination. In addition to sampling the local gourmet Tuscan fare, you’ll also be treated to an Italian cooking lesson. You’ll prepare an authentic Italian dish inside a rustic Tuscan farmhouse where you and your travel companions will enjoy your culinary creations—complete with master-chef prizes. You’ll also learn the art of Italian dessert making at your hotel and get to taste some of the celebrated Chianti and Super Tuscan wines right where they are produced. You’ll revel in the beauty of becoming familiar with a single destination of Montecatini while making priceless discoveries of locales that are off the beaten path—perfect for the smart, creative, and budget-minded travel lover.

Your 11-day guided tour of Venice and Eastern Mediterranean Europe includes visits to beautiful coastal cities throughout four countries—Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro. You’ll discover natural, historical, architectural, and cultural beauty during your affordable European tour of the east Adriatic coast. You’ll begin in the “floating city” of Venice, Italy—with its iconic landmarks, legendary canals, bridges, and piazzas. Your visit includes a boat ride along one of the major canals to St. Mark’s Square, time to enjoy cafes and churches, or a gondola ride if you choose. From Venice, travel to the picturesque fishing village of Piran, Slovenia, then to the seaside resort of Portorož. Consider a spa treatment, trip to a casino, or an excursion to the beautiful Istrian peninsula. On to Croatia, you’ll enjoy the stunning east Adriatic coast and the bay laurel woods of Opatija. Your escorted tour of Croatia includes the visit of Krka National Park in the Central Dalmatian region. Discover breathtaking waterfalls, water mills, and more than 200 species of birds—including eagles, ospreys, falcons, and owls. Your guided tour of the vibrant port city of Split with its 4th-century architecture includes the emperor’s palace. Venture to the “Pearl of the Adriatic”—Dubrovnik. A historic fortress city, incredible Dubrovnik is also known as a filming location for the TV series, Game of Thrones. Spend a full day in Montenegro including a visit to Kotor and a short boat ride to a tiny island with an iconic, tiny, world-famous church. Your affordable tour of Venice and the Eastern Adriatic coast is a trip you’ll remember for its beauty, history, and hidden gems.

Italy and Greece are steeped in history with a treasure trove of ancient sites and scenic beauty. On this affordable Italy and Greece tour, you’ll see the exceptional features these countries have to offer, starting in Rome and ending in Athens. In Italy, you’ll stay in Rome, Florence, and the Venice area; in Greece, you’ll stay in Olympia, Nauplia, and Athens. You’ll also spend one night on a ferry, crossing the Adriatic Sea from Ancona, Italy to Patras, Greece. Visit Rome with a local guide who brings ancient Imperial Rome back to life as you see the Colosseum. Enjoy must-see sights, including Piazza Signoria, in the middle of Florence; the Roman arena in Verona, and Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower. In Venice, take a boat ride to St. Mark’s Square and watch glassblowers create works of art as they have done for centuries – or discover the lagoon at your own pace. Step back in time on your visit to Athens’ Acropolis and the Parthenon, dating back to the 5th century BC, and the most accurate indication of the influence and wealth of Athens at its greatest peak. You’ll also visit Mycenae, dating back to 1350 to 1200 BC, where you’ll marvel at the arches, fountains, ramparts, and amazing masonry still standing. All these elements come together perfectly to create a value-minded Italy and Greece tour like no other!

If you want to see Western Europe’s main highlights but don’t have much time, this European tour is the vacation for you! Visit England, Belgium, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, and France and see London, Brussels, Innsbruck, Venice, Lucerne, Dijon, and Paris. After spending some time in London, you will travel to Brussels on the Eurostar train, the easiest way to connect the two European cities. Visit medieval Rothenburg, a walled town that has retained its fascinating character. Relax and take in the wonderful views of castle-crested hills, terraced vineyards, and pretty wine towns on the included scenic cruise along the Rhine River. Take a boat ride in Venice along the Giudecca Canal to St. Mark’s Square, allowing you to admire some of the palazzos and maze of streets. While in Venice, take the opportunity to watch glassblowers create their works as they have done for centuries. Some other must-sees on this iconic Europe tour are romantic Verona, the Italian city made famous by Romeo and Juliet; your stay in the Lucerne area, one of Switzerland’s finest cities, situated on the shores of breathtaking Lake Lucerne and nestled within the snow-capped Swiss Alps. Last, but not least, visit Paris, capital of France and one of the most celebrated cities on the old Continent. Here, your tour guide will show you some of the most famous sights in Paris on the city sightseeing tour. Travel back to London on the high-speed Eurostar train and spend one additional night in London. This will allow you to maybe go out and catch up on anything you missed out at the beginning of your vacation. In a short time, this affordable European tour offers it all—historic sights, big cities, quaint towns, and scenic beauty.

With its unspoiled scenery, majestic peaks, fascinating old towns, sparkling lakes, rich history, and cities with a cosmopolitan flair, Switzerland is the perfect vacation offering something for everyone. On this Switzerland tour, you’ll experience some of its most beautiful scenery and interesting cities with overnights in Zurich, St. Moritz, Lugano, Zermatt or Täsch, the Lausanne area, and Lucerne. Switzerland is famous for its stunning sceneries. Enjoy a panoramic drive through the high Alps to the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein. Witness quaint villages, finely carved chalets, green pastures, beautiful forests, magnificent mountain peaks, and rolling, green hills on your way to St. Moritz, one of the world's most famous winter resorts. Switch mode of transportation in Täsch, where you’ll board a mountain train to car-free Zermatt, a picturesque cluster of rustic chalets beneath the famous Matterhorn. If you desire to see lakes, you'll enjoy Lake Maggiore, Italy’s second-largest lake; stunning Lake Geneva; Lake Lugano, the popular region enjoying a subtropical climate; Interlaken, situated between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz; and Lake Lucerne, situated in the shadows of the snow-capped Alps. One highlight of this Switzerland tour is the journey aboard the Bernina Express train from St Moritz to Tirano, Italy. Riding on the highest railway across the Alps, witness glistening glaciers, stunning mountain streams, and alpine scenery, and travel through tunnels and over bridges that are engineering masterpieces! Enjoy a visit to a local cheese factory in Gruyères, a picturesque medieval town that has been unaffected with the passage of time. Spend time in Switzerland’s capital, Berne, and storybook Lucerne. From stunning scenery and vibrant cities to special experiences, this Switzerland tour is sure to delight. So grab your camera and get ready for an amazing vacation!

With its magnificent architecture, beautiful landscapes, sumptuous cuisine, ancient ruins, and brilliant art, Italy is a country like no other. On this affordable Italy’s Best tour, you’ll experience all of this and more. One of the tour’s highlights is the excursion to the Cinque Terre—five medieval seaside villages. The area is noted for its natural beauty with terraces built into the mountainside on cliffs that drop down into the sea. Delight in the unique charm of the area and take in the breathtaking views. On your journey through Tuscany, watch the undulating hills, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and rural villages. More stunning scenery awaits at Lake Maggiore, one of Italy’s largest lakes. Located on the edge of the Swiss Alps, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty. Briefly cross the border into Switzerland to Lugano, a lakeside town with a Mediterranean flair. In southern Italy, witness magnificent views of the crystal-clear, blue sea in the vibrant town of Sorrento, and enjoy a day trip to Capri where the crashing sea has formed awe-inspiring caves. On this comprehensive Italy tour, history comes alive. Visit Pompeii, buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This amazingly preserved archaeological site gives you a detailed insight into ordinary life at the peak of the Roman Empire. In Rome, during the city sightseeing tour with a local guide, see the main sights, as well as Vatican City with St Peter’s Basilica. In Genoa, boasting Europe’s largest medieval historical district, view the remains of the city’s 17th-century fortifications. Visit St Francis’ Basilica in Assisi, a medieval town set in the Umbrian hills. Guided city sightseeing tours are planned in Rome, Florence, Assisi, and Genoa. Your visit to Venice includes a boat trip to St Mark’s square to see the maze of canals forming this unique romantic city. These are just some of the many highlights of this affordable tour of Italy!

From its exciting cities to its spectacular scenery, Europe has it all, and on this affordable European tour, you'll see the main highlights. Start in Amsterdam with a scenic canal cruise and end in Paris with a guided tour and time on your own. In between, you’ll discover Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. In Amsterdam, Rome, Florence, and Paris, local experts will bring the cities alive, and among other famous sights, you’ll see Amsterdam's canals; Piazza Signoria in Florence, renowned for its ornate and famous statues; and St. Peter’s Square in Rome, the heart of the Vatican. Other interesting experiences include a boat ride to Venice’s St. Mark’s Square; a visit to Assisi’s Basilica, burial site of St. Francis and home to frescoes by Giotto and see Neuschwanstein Castle, King Ludwig II’s fairy-tale castle nestled in the beautiful Bavarian Alps. It is not just the cities you’ll see on this European tour; you’ll also see some of Europe's beautiful scenery. A fascinating drive along the Rhine River features quaint towns, castles from the Middle Ages, and villages lining the countryside. Marvel at the gorgeous Swiss Alps. Enjoy the beautiful Tuscany countryside, with its rolling hills, and journey through France’s famous vineyards. Overnight in romantic Lake Como, regarded as one of Europe's most picturesque lakes; spend time in Lucerne, nestled between the Alps and the fjord-like lake; and stop in Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and surrounded by three mighty mountains. Europe’s highlights—including historic monuments, must-see attractions, and scenery—are all available on this splendid, value-minded Europe tour!

This Scenic Switzerland by Train tour is the perfect way to see Switzerland’s breathtaking mountains, charming mountain resorts, fascinating old towns, and beautiful lakes—all while you relax aboard Switzerland’s famous trains. You’ll overnight in Zurich, Lucerne, Lausanne, the Zermatt area, and St. Moritz. One of the highlights of this Switzerland train tour is the train journey aboard the Glacier Express from Zermatt, a picturesque cluster of rustic chalets beneath the majestic Matterhorn, to glitzy St. Moritz, one of the world’s most famous resorts. From your carriage windows, marvel at the thundering waterfalls, impressive snow-capped peaks, glacial ice fields, lush meadows, and picture-perfect villages. Another highlight of this Switzerland train tour is the journey aboard the Bernina Express from St Moritz to Tirano, Italy. Traveling on the highest railway across the Alps, you’ll witness glistening glaciers, stunning mountain streams, and alpine scenery, through tunnels and over bridges that are engineering masterpieces! But that’s not all…in Zermatt you’ll also experience the Gornergrat open-air cog railway, Europe’s highest. You’ll cross remarkable bridges, pass through tunnels along rocky ravines and beautiful lakes. The views of the Matterhorn from the top are nothing short of spectacular! Other rail journeys you’ll experience on this tour through Switzerland are the Golden Pass Panoramic train to Montreux, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva and known as the “Swiss Riviera.” You’ll feel like you are immersed in the landscapes passing you by. Stunning scenery and thrilling train rides…there’s no better way to see scenic Switzerland! So grab your camera and get ready for an amazing, value-minded adventure!

The breathtaking Alps span the borders of several European countries, and this vacation gives you the opportunity to see the best of the alpine region. This scenic Alpine tour includes overnights in Munich, the Innsbruck area, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bolzano, St. Moritz, Lake Como, Turin, Täsch, the Lucerne area, and Zurich. Every day you’ll marvel at stunning scenery: lush dairy pastures, picturesque quaint villages, imposing peaks, and enchanting forests. Visit Novacella Abbey in South Tyrol and Cortina d'Ampezzo, home of the 1956 Olympics in the spectacular Italian Dolomites, called the Italian "Rocky Mountains." Take in views of Italy’s Lake Carezza, a small, emerald-green mountain lake, and see the spectacular Austrian and Italian Tyrolean Alps. Discover Switzerland’s Engadine National Park, considered by some to be the world’s most beautiful mountain area with deep-blue lakes and mountain peaks exceeding 12,000 feet; experience beautiful Lake Como, one of Europe’s deepest lakes; car-free Zermatt, a picturesque cluster of rustic chalets beneath the Matterhorn, and much more. But it is not all about alpine scenery; you will also get to know Turin, an Italian city set at the foot of the Alps, and on the included city tour, you’ll discover all the secret treasures the former Italian capital has to offer. In Bavaria, you will visit charming Linderhof Castle, the smallest but maybe the most elegant of King Ludwig’s three fairy-tale castles. One of the highlights of this Alps tour is a memorable trip aboard the Glacier Express. From your train windows, marvel at the thundering waterfalls, impressive snow-capped peaks, glacial ice fields, forests, lush meadows, and picture-perfect villages. Passing over hundreds of bridges and through dozens of tunnels, this is Switzerland’s most famous mountain railway along with the journey aboard the Bernina Express from St Moritz to Tirano, Italy. Traveling on the highest railway across the Alps, witness glistening glaciers, stunning mountain streams, and alpine scenery. You will have many opportunities to practice your photographic skills on this amazing Alpine tour designed for savvy travel lovers! It’s a dream vacation!

From its exciting cities to its spectacular scenery, Europe has it all, and on this affordable European tour, you'll see the main highlights. Start in Amsterdam with a scenic canal cruise and end in Paris with a guided tour and time on your own. In between, you’ll discover Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. In Amsterdam, Rome, Florence, and Paris, local experts will bring the cities alive, and among other famous sights, you’ll see Amsterdam's canals; Piazza Signoria in Florence, renowned for its ornate and famous statues; and St. Peter’s Square in Rome, the heart of the Vatican. Other interesting experiences include a boat ride to Venice’s St. Mark’s Square; a visit to Assisi’s Basilica, burial site of St. Francis and home to frescoes by Giotto and see Neuschwanstein Castle, King Ludwig II’s fairy-tale castle nestled in the beautiful Bavarian Alps. It is not just the cities you’ll see on this European tour; you’ll also see some of Europe's beautiful scenery. A fascinating drive along the Rhine River features quaint towns, castles from the Middle Ages, and villages lining the countryside. Marvel at the gorgeous Swiss Alps. Enjoy the beautiful Tuscany countryside, with its rolling hills, and journey through France’s famous vineyards. Overnight in romantic Lake Como, regarded as one of Europe's most picturesque lakes; spend time in Lucerne, nestled between the Alps and the fjord-like lake; and stop in Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and surrounded by three mighty mountains. One last treat is left for you as you leave the Old Continent on the Eurostar train to London; get a taste of Britain and of its buzzing capital and enjoy some of the English culture before returning home. Europe’s highlights—including historic monuments, must-see attractions, and scenery—are all available on this splendid, value-minded Europe tour!

On this inspirational tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Catholic icons of Rome, such as the four major Basilicas, the Scala Sancta, and the Papal summer residence of Castel Gandolfo. You will also attend the Papal Audience, learn about some of Italy’s beloved Saints, and celebrate Mass. Learn about St. Pio of Pietrelcina, a modern-day saint; visit the Shrine of Monte Sant’Angelo, gather in prayer at the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle in Lanciano, reflect in the Holy House of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Loreto, and admire the timeless beauty of the Basilicas of St. Francis and St. Clare in Assisi. Italy is a must for Catholic travelers and art lovers. By spending an additional couple of days in the atmospheric pilgrimage site of Medjugorje, complete an even more memorable spiritual experience, visiting the town where the Virgin appeared to some visionaries to send a message of peace.

A European tour should include the most popular and exciting cities, the must-see sights, picturesque scenery, and a mix of culture, history, and just plain fun. This, and more, is what you get on the Best of Europe tour. Visit London, where you could join one of our optional excursions or just discover the city at leisure. From there, cross the Channel on the Eurostar train to Brussels and then continue by coach to discover many diverse continental destinations. Local Guides will tell you all about Amsterdam’s canals; Rome’s St Peter Square; Florence’s Renaissance old city center with a replica of the “David” by Michelangelo; Pompeii, where you’ll see what life was like during the Roman Empire; Paris’s most famous landmarks, and much more. As you journey through Europe, you’ll also enjoy spectacular scenery, such as the picturesque Rhineland with its scenic countryside, historic castles, and charming villages, and breathtaking views of the Italian and French Rivieras. Sit back and relax as you drive past the Burgundy vineyards in France and through gorgeous alpine landscapes from Switzerland to Italy. Marvel at the beauty of Tuscany with its rural villages, rolling hills, vineyards, rows of cypress trees, and olive groves, and stand in awe as you witness the blue sea and amazing views on the Sorrento coast and the legendary island of Capri. Last but not least, you’ll love the green hills and valleys as you travel through Umbria to visit medieval Assisi. All of this and more await you on this dream European vacation designed for value-minded keen travelers!

Italy and Greece are countries steeped in history with a treasure trove of ancient sites and scenic beauty. On this affordable Italy and Greece tour, you’ll see the exceptional features these countries have to offer, starting in Rome and ending in Athens. In Italy, you’ll stay in Rome, Florence, and the Venice area. In Greece, you’ll stay in Olympia, Nauplia, and Athens. You’ll also spend one night on a ferry to cross the Adriatic Sea from Ancona, Italy to Patras, Greece and then on a cruise ship for a 3-night Aegean Islands sea cruise. Visit Rome with a local guide who brings ancient Imperial Rome back to life as you see the Colosseum. Enjoy must-see sights, including Piazza Signoria in the middle of Florence: the Roman arena in Verona, and Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower. In Venice, take a boat ride to St. Mark’s Square and watch glassblowers create works of art as they have done for centuries—or discover the lagoon at your own pace. Step back in time on your visit to Athens’ Acropolis and the Parthenon, dating back to the 5th century BC, and the most accurate indication of the influence and wealth of Athens at its greatest peak. You’ll also visit Mycenae, dating back to the 5th Century BC, where you’ll marvel at the arches, fountains, ramparts, and amazing masonry still standing. Spend the last few days of your affordable tour of Italy and Greece in sheer relaxation aboard your cruise ship for a 3-night cruise to some of the world’s most beautiful islands. You’ll see Mykonos, with its seafront village, sandy beaches, and whitewashed houses; Heraklion, Crete, nestled picturesquely between two mountain ranges; Santorini (weather permitting), with one of the world's most breathtaking panoramas; Patmos, where St. John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelation; and Kusadasi, Turkey, where you’ll enjoy an included visit of the Ephesus archaeological site. All these elements come together perfectly to create a value-minded Italy and Greece tour with a cruise like no other!