17-day tour around Italy from Rome to Palermo

Welcome to "The Eternal City", the wonderful Rome. You will make your own way to the city centre and check in at your hotel. Free time for the rest of the day.

Greca Tip: Come to Rome in the most comfortable shoes you have.  There are a lot of cobblestones and they are made of basalt, which can be quite unforgiving on your body.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin a fascinating panoramic tour of Rome, one of the most iconic cities in the world. Over the course of approximately three hours, we will combine a bus tour with a pleasant walking tour through Imperial Rome. We will have the opportunity to admire historic landmarks such as the Arch of Constantine, the impressive exterior of the Colosseum, and the majestic Imperial Forums—eternal symbols of the grandeur of Ancient Rome.

While on board the bus, we will also pass by other iconic sites such as the Circus Maximus, the ancient Baths of Caracalla, the elegant Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the mysterious Pyramid of Cestius, and the imposing Castel Sant'Angelo, located on the banks of the Tiber River.

We will conclude our tour in Vatican City around 11:00 a.m. After the visit, our guide will offer you the opportunity to join an optional excursion to explore the artistic treasures of the Vatican Museums and marvel at the magnificent Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s masterpiece.

In the late afternoon, we will include a transfer to the charming Trastevere neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere, narrow cobblestone streets, and traditional restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Roman cuisine. Return to the hotel is scheduled for approximately 8:30 p.m.

Greca Tip: While strolling through Trastevere, be sure to try a supplì—a fried rice croquette filled with melted cheese. This typical Roman treat is perfect for savoring as you explore the vibrant streets of the neighborhood.

Today we will enjoy a completely free day in Rome, a perfect opportunity to connect with the living history of the Eternal City at our own pace. In the morning, after breakfast, you may stroll through Rome’s elegant squares, from Piazza Navona with its baroque fountains to the iconic Trevi Fountain, where tradition invites you to toss a coin to ensure your return to the city.

In the afternoon, you may wish to walk through Trastevere, a neighborhood of cobblestone streets filled with trattorias, artisans, and photogenic corners, ideal for experiencing the most authentic side of Rome. Another excellent alternative is exploring the Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, where every stone seems to whisper stories of emperors, temples, and ancient glories.

As night falls, the city lights up softly and offers a magical atmosphere for dining outdoors, enjoying an artisanal gelato, or simply contemplating how Rome reveals its eternal beauty at every corner.

At the end of the day, we will return to the hotel to rest.

Greca Tip: Rome is perfect for discovering flavors; try an authentic gelato near the Pantheon or a cacio e pepe pasta in a traditional trattoria.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at our hotel before beginning a fascinating journey through the region of Umbria, one of the most enchanting areas of Italy. Our first stop will be Orvieto, a medieval gem perched atop a volcanic hill. Before entering the city, we will pause at its panoramic viewpoint to take in an unforgettable vista.

Next, we will reach the old town via escalators that connect the lower part of the city with its medieval heart. There, we will admire its imposing cathedral—a true masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture—renowned for its richly decorated façade.

We will then continue our journey to Castiglione del Lago, a charming village on the shores of Lake Trasimeno. You will have free time to stroll through its historic streets and enjoy lunch at your own pace.

Later, we will head to Siena, in the heart of Tuscany. We will walk through its historic center, with special attention to the iconic Piazza del Campo—famous for the Palio horse race—and the majestic Duomo, one of the most impressive cathedrals in Italy. The afternoon will be free for you to enjoy this magnificent city at your leisure.

Greca Tip: While in Siena, don’t miss the chance to try panforte, a traditional Tuscan sweet made with dried fruits and spices—perfect to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before continuing our journey through Tuscany. We depart from Siena toward Monteriggioni, a small and charming medieval village that seems frozen in time. We will stroll along its cobbled streets and admire its ancient walls, which have retained their original form since the 13th century, offering a truly unique and authentic atmosphere.

Our trip continues to San Gimignano, known as the “medieval Manhattan” due to the many towers that rise above its skyline. This city, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will enchant us with its architecture, artisanal shops, and picturesque setting. We will have time to explore at our own pace and enjoy lunch as we please.

In the afternoon, we will head to Florence, the capital of Tuscany and the cradle of the Renaissance. We’ll arrive in the early afternoon, giving us the opportunity to begin discovering its countless cultural treasures. We suggest visiting the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia Gallery, where masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli and Michelangelo are housed (please note that these museums are closed on Mondays).

At the end of the day, we will enjoy an included dinner featuring the best of Florentine cuisine.

Greca Tip: In San Gimignano, don’t miss trying the ice cream from Gelateria Dondoli, considered one of the best in the world.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before beginning our day in enchanting Florence. Our first stop will be the famous Michelangelo Square viewpoint, from where we will take in an unrivaled panoramic view of the city—its domes, bridges, and the rolling Tuscan hills in the distance.

Next, we will join a guided tour led by a local expert to delve into the rich history and art of this Renaissance capital. We will explore the imposing Duomo, crowned by Brunelleschi’s iconic dome, the famous Ponte Vecchio with its traditional jewelry shops, and the Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city, presided over by the Palazzo Vecchio. Throughout the tour, we will learn more about legendary figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, whose masterpieces defined an era.

After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore Florence at your own pace—perhaps visit museums, relax with a coffee at a terrace, or simply wander the city’s historic and elegant streets.

Greca Tip: If you want to savor a true Florentine delicacy, we recommend finding a local trattoria that serves bistecca alla fiorentina, a traditional cut of steak grilled to perfection.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will depart from Florence and head toward Pisa. There, we will board a small tourist train from the parking area to the impressive Campo dei Miracoli, where the famous Leaning Tower stands beside the cathedral and the baptistery, forming a stunning monumental ensemble.

We will then continue our journey toward the splendid Ligurian Coast to discover one of the most fascinating landscapes on the European shoreline: Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These five charming coastal villages are known for their dramatic position between mountains and sea, with colorful houses clinging to cliffs and narrow, lively streets.

We will travel by train to one of the villages—usually Vernazza—though during high season we might visit Manarola or Corniglia, which are equally beautiful but less crowded. There will be free time to have lunch, soak in the local atmosphere, and admire the breathtaking views.

Afterward, we will continue by train to Levanto, where our coach will be waiting to take us to Genoa. Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore the historic center of this port city, which in the Middle Ages was one of the most powerful maritime republics in the Mediterranean.

Greca Tip: While in Cinque Terre, be sure to try focaccia genovese with olive oil and rosemary—a simple yet unforgettable delight.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will set off toward the charming coastal town of Santa Margherita Ligure, nestled along the Italian Riviera.

From there, we will embark on an unforgettable boat ride to Portofino, an exclusive and picturesque harbor surrounded by green hills and colorful houses. You will have free time to stroll through its elegant streets, admire the seaside views, and, if you wish, climb up to the Brown Castle viewpoint for a spectacular panorama of the gulf.

After lunch, we will continue our journey to Milan, the capital of fashion and design in Italy. Upon arrival, you will have free time to explore this vibrant and sophisticated city, a symbol of modernity in northern Italy. We recommend visiting its impressive Gothic cathedral, the Duomo of Milan, located in one of the most iconic squares in the country, as well as the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an architectural gem dedicated to the first king of a unified Italy.

Note: From May 30th to November 2nd, tourist buses are not allowed access to Santa Margherita Ligure. During this period, the stop will be in RAPALLO, another stunning coastal destination in the Liguria region, where we will board the boat to Portofino.

Additional note: Due to adverse weather conditions or during winter, the boat crossing to Portofino (whether from Santa Margherita or Rapallo) may not be operational due to weather conditions.

Greca Tip: If you’d like to experience a Milanese classic, don’t miss risotto alla milanese, prepared with saffron—perfect to pair with a glass of local wine at one of the historic center’s many terraces.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will set out on a journey to discover one of the most beautiful natural regions in Europe: the lake district of northern Italy.

Our first stop will be the charming Lake Orta, a lesser-known gem of great beauty. There, we will visit the medieval village of Orta San Giulio, a place that feels frozen in time. We include a pleasant ride on a small tourist train that will take us to the historic center, where we will board a boat to cross over to the Island of San Giulio. This tiny island, surrounded by the lake’s peaceful waters, is home to an ancient monastery and exudes a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

We will then continue to Lake Maggiore, one of the largest and most celebrated lakes in Italy. We will stop in the elegant town of Stresa, from where you may choose to visit the Borromean Islands—especially the famous Isola Bella, known for its opulent Baroque palace and exquisite gardens (closed in winter). You will have free time to enjoy lunch and take in the lakeside ambiance.

In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Verona, the quintessential romantic city, where we will end the day.

Greca Tip: While in Stresa, enjoy a coffee paired with a slice of Torta di Stresa, a traditional almond cake created in honor of a royal visit in the 19th century.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before starting the day in Verona, the city that immortalized the love story of Romeo and Juliet. We will have time to stroll through its charming historic center, admire the Roman Arena, and visit the famous Juliet’s balcony—one of the most photographed spots in all of Italy.

Afterward, we will head to the magical city of Venice. We’ll arrive around midday and, from the pier, board a boat that will take us close to St. Mark’s Square, the heart of this unique city built on water. There, we will enjoy a guided walking tour led by a local expert who will introduce us to the history, art, and hidden corners of this jewel of the Adriatic.

During the tour, we will also witness the traditional Murano glassmaking technique—an artisanal craft that has brought worldwide fame to Venice. After the visit, you will have free time to continue exploring the canals, enjoy a coffee near the square, or, if you wish, experience a romantic gondola ride through the city’s iconic waterways.

At the end of the day, we will stay overnight in the Mestre area.

Greca Tip: Don’t leave Venice without trying some cicchetti—small Venetian tapas-style bites served in traditional taverns, perfect when paired with a refreshing spritz.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we leave Venice behind and head to our first stop, the city of Padua. Here, we visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony, an important pilgrimage site, and stroll through its lively streets.

We continue our journey towards the Adriatic coast to reach San Marino, one of the smallest countries in the world. At the top of its fortified mountain, we have free time to walk around, have lunch, and explore its shops.

Our journey then takes us across the Apennines to Gubbio, a beautifully preserved medieval town. We wander through its charming streets and admire the Palace of the Consuls and its 12th-century cathedral.

We end the day in Perugia, where we settle in and rest before continuing our exploration of Italy.

Greca Tip: San Marino is a great place to buy duty-free souvenirs, especially leather goods, perfumes, and local liqueurs.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will begin our day enjoying a panoramic tour of Perugia that allows us to discover this charming historic city, also known as the city of chocolate. Together with a local guide, we will ascend through the moving walkways carved into the rocky outcrop and explore its fascinating medieval underground city, where ancient stone-paved streets and intimate squares seem frozen in time.

At midday, we will continue toward Assisi, a place of deep serenity and spirituality. We will have free time for lunch and then visit the impressive Basilica of St. Francis, an eternal symbol of art and faith that preserves invaluable masterpieces.

In the afternoon, we will resume our journey south. At times, a brief stop in Rome may be made to drop off passengers. As daylight fades, we will continue our route until finally reaching Naples, where the warm Mediterranean spirit welcomes us.

Greca Tip: In Naples, don’t miss the opportunity to try an authentic Neapolitan pizza—local pride and an unforgettable culinary experience.

We begin the day with a delicious breakfast before heading to the Naples port, where we board a ferry to the island of Capri. During the crossing, we enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, with the sea glistening under the sun and the silhouette of Mount Vesuvius on the horizon.

Upon arriving in Capri, we have free time to explore the island at our own pace. We can stroll through its elegant streets, relax on terraces overlooking the sea, or, if we wish, take a boat tour to discover the White Grotto and the iconic Faraglioni rock formations. Another option is to take the funicular up to the town of Capri, where charming squares and unforgettable panoramic views await.

Later, we board the ferry again to continue our journey to Sorrento, admiring the stunning coastal scenery as we approach this picturesque town. Upon arrival, we explore its lively streets, filled with artisan shops, cozy cafés, and a welcoming Mediterranean atmosphere that invites us to unwind.

In the afternoon, we resume our trip and end the day in Salerno, a vibrant and welcoming port city. Here, we can take a nighttime stroll and discover its charming old town, lively waterfront promenade, and excellent local cuisine.

Greca Tip: In Sorrento, don’t miss the chance to try limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur from the region. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy after a great meal and a wonderful souvenir to take home from this beautiful corner of southern Italy.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at our hotel, we will prepare for an exciting journey southward, immersing ourselves in the natural and cultural beauty of this remarkable region of Italy.

We will travel through the enchanting landscapes of the Cilento National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its mountains, forests, and unspoiled coastline. Our first stop will be in Paola, a historic town on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea. There, we will visit the Sanctuary of Saint Francis of Paola, an important pilgrimage site, and enjoy some free time for lunch and a stroll through its charming old town, with its narrow alleys and maritime atmosphere.

We will then continue to Villa San Giovanni, where we’ll board a short ferry crossing over the Strait of Messina to reach the legendary island of Sicily. Upon arrival in Messina, we’ll take a break to walk near its cathedral, one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Finally, we’ll head toward the Taormina region, where we will settle in for the night after a day full of new experiences. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner included at the hotel.

Greca Tip: While strolling through Messina, we recommend trying a refreshing granita siciliana—a traditional shaved ice dessert that’s perfect for beating the heat and savoring the true essence of Sicily.

We will start the day enjoying a delicious breakfast before beginning our journey in the charming city of Taormina, located at the foot of the imposing Mount Etna. This place, described by Winston Churchill as "the most beautiful on Earth," invites us to explore its vibrant old town, full of history and life. Its famous Greek Theater, situated in a privileged location, will offer us unforgettable landscapes with views of the sea and the volcano.

Early in the morning, we will head to Giardini Naxos, the first Greek settlement in Sicily (founded in 734 B.C.), featuring a lovely seaside promenade and lively beaches. Afterwards, we will have free time to stroll through the historic center of Taormina, with its unforgettable landscapes and its beautiful Greek theatre

After lunch, we will continue to the Villa Romana del Casale, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. With entry and a guided tour included, we will explore this impressive Roman villa, a testament to the grandeur of the Empire. In addition to preserving its 4th-century architectural structure, its mosaics, which decorate almost all the rooms, are considered the most beautiful in the Roman world.

Crossing the mountainous heart of the island, we will finally arrive in Palermo at dusk, where we will have dinner and stay overnight.

Greca Tip: In Taormina, we shouldn’t miss strolling along Corso Umberto, its main street filled with shops, cafés, and charming corners. For a special moment, enjoying a coffee or an aperitif on a terrace with a sea view is a great option.

We will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before beginning our tour of the vibrant city of Palermo, accompanied by a local guide who will help us uncover its most iconic treasures. We will visit the majestic Palermo Cathedral (entrance included), renowned for its unique blend of architectural styles and as the resting place of ancient royal monarchs.

We will then continue to the Norman Palace, a former royal residence noted for its rich history, magnificent fountains, traditional markets, and charming gardens.

As part of this experience, we will also travel to the nearby town of Monreale, where we will enter its stunning cathedral (entrance included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its dazzling golden mosaics that adorn the interior and vividly depict biblical scenes with extraordinary beauty. The afternoon will be free for you to continue exploring Palermo at your own pace, enjoy its local cuisine, or simply relax.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try panelle, a beloved Palermo street food made from chickpea flour—perfect to enjoy while strolling through the city’s historic markets.

In the morning, you will enjoy a tasty breakfast and then you will be transferred to Palermo airport, where your tour will come to an end. 

Undoubtedly, having spending a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to create more memorable moments that will be etched in your memory forever.

Have a nice trip! Or as you may also say, Buon Viaggio!

Greca Tip: You can extend your stay in Palermo at Step 1 of your reservation!