London to Athens (Plus, Start London, 17 Days)

Kickstart your journey in London, where we'll exchange pleasantries before setting our sights on Paris. En route, marvel at the stunning White Cliffs of Dover that edge the English coastline. We'll then ferry across the English Channel to France, stopping at Calais to soak in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme. Upon reaching Paris, the city of love, we'll indulge in a sumptuous French dinner. The rest of the evening is yours to explore the city's trendy fashion, fine wine, and iconic sights.

Spend the day strolling the beautiful streets of Paris. Start with a trip up the Montparnasse Tower for the best views of the Eiffel Tower. Then, immerse yourself in the city's charm as you admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, explore the Louvre, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee and crêpes. In the evening, you can choose to dine in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, village-esque cafes, street artists, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Alternatively, sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show for a memorable night.

After breakfast, we'll set off for our next destination, Lyon. As we arrive in this city known for its historical and architectural landmarks, you'll be greeted by blue skies and sultry red roofs. Spend the evening exploring this fascinating city with your fellow travelers.

Spend a full day discovering the charms of Lyon, France's second-largest city. Don't miss the Notre Dame Basilica & St Jean Baptiste Cathedral, the ancient outdoor theatres inspired by the Romans, and the city's fascinating museums. If you need a break, take a leisurely stroll or a nap in the Parc de la Tête d’Or. When hunger strikes, you're in the right place to sample some of the best French cuisine.

We'll leave Lyon after breakfast and head to Barcelona, a city known for its relaxed vibes, welcoming atmosphere, and rich culture. Upon arrival, we'll visit the stunning Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's architectural masterpiece. In the evening, we'll dine at one of the city's exceptional eateries, giving you a taste of the local cuisine.

Spend the day exploring the cobbled lanes of the Gothic Quarter, enjoying the vistas from Montjuic hilltop, and admiring the city's wild Spanish architecture. You'll have plenty of free time to roam around or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea. In the evening, you can choose to join a Flamenco show for a taste of Spanish culture.

Leaving Barcelona behind, we'll cross the border into France, passing through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers, and wild herbs. We'll stop at Arles for lunch, where you'll get a glimpse of an ancient Roman Arena and a typical provincial French town. Then, we'll continue our journey to the French Riviera, known for its sapphire waters and endless glamour.

Spend the day exploring the French Riviera, famous for its lavender honey, aioli, and rosé wine. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Monaco in the evening, where you can try your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino and visit the Royal Palace. You'll also have the option to enjoy a delicious dinner in this glamorous city before heading back to the French Riviera.

We'll bid farewell to the French Riviera and make our way to Italy, passing through the regions of Liguria, Lombardia, and Veneto. En route, we'll stop at Eze, where you can visit a traditional French perfumery and even craft your own signature scent. We'll then continue our journey to Venice, the floating city of gondolas, canals, and pretty bridges. Rest up tonight as we have a full day of exploration planned for tomorrow.

Spend the entire day exploring the enchanting city of Venice. We'll start with a private boat ride to the city's historical heart. You'll have the option to visit the colorful island of Burano or take a gondola ride. Alternatively, you can choose to explore the city on your own, getting lost in its magical maze of canals and narrow streets.

We'll leave Venice and head to Florence, but not before making a pit stop at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This iconic structure offers the perfect photo opportunity. Upon reaching Florence, you'll be captivated by the city's beauty and its protruding Duomo. Spend the evening exploring the city, perhaps with a glass of Chianti wine in hand.

Spend a full day discovering the wonders of Florence. We'll start with a walking tour to see all the top sights and explore the local markets. In the afternoon, you'll have free time to taste the local gelato or continue exploring the city. In the evening, you can choose to visit a 14th-century Certosan monastery, followed by dinner and wine at a magical Tuscan restaurant nestled in the nearby countryside.

We'll say goodbye to Florence and head to Rome, the epicenter of Italy. En route, we'll stop at Casale Polegri, an organic Umbrian farm where we'll feast on local pasta, olives, wine, and more. Upon reaching Rome, you'll have the chance to explore the city's iconic attractions, including the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.

Spend the day immersing yourself in the history and culture of Rome. Learn about the Colosseum and take some time to explore the city on your own. Savor a cup of espresso while people-watching, or indulge in a plate of pasta, a scoop of gelato, or a caprese salad. The evening is yours to explore the city's vibrant nightlife.

We'll leave Rome and head to Pompeii, an archaeological site that was once a bustling Roman city. Here, you'll have the option to take a guided tour and step back in time. From Pompeii, we'll board an overnight Adriatic Ferry and set sail for Athens. Wake up in a new country, ready for the next part of your adventure.

We'll disembark in Patras and head straight to Athens, the awe-inspiring capital of Greece. En route, we'll catch a glimpse of the Corinth Canal, a man-made passageway that separates the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. Once in Athens, you can choose to sample traditional Greek food with an optional dinner, or explore the city's ancient wonders and modern magnificence on your own.

On the final day of our tour, a local guide will take us through the history of Athens. We'll visit the Parthenon and the Acropolis, as well as the first modern Olympic Stadium, host of the 1896 Games. As the day comes to an end, we'll share hugs, tears, and reminisce about the unforgettable journey we've had over the past two weeks.