Rome, Puglia and Meteoras (2025)

Jour 1

Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival at the airport, we will be there to transfer you to your hotel. You will find all the details you need to meet your guide at the hotel on the information boards. In the late afternoon, we will provide a transfer to the Esquilino neighborhood, an excellent introduction to Rome with its grand basilicas and the Colosseum. Dinner will be included.

Jour 2

In the morning, we´ll begin with a panoramic tour that will introduce us to the “Eternal City.” This tour includes admission to the Imperial Forums, an impressive architectural complex of monumental buildings and squares that served as the center of political activity in ancient Rome. Afterward, we’ll go to St. Peter´s Basilica in the Vatican, where you´ll have free time. The afternoon will be at your leisure.

Jour 3

Free day. Today, we suggest an optional excursion to Naples, Capri, and Pompeii.

Jour 4

Today, we’ll travel toward the Adriatic Sea, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Apennine Mountain range. Our first stop will be the San Giovanni in Venere Abbey, a beautiful 11th-century abbey built on the ruins of an ancient Roman temple. Next, we’ll visit Termoli, a charming coastal city where the beach is framed by the walled old town, with its 13th-century castle and Romanesque cathedral as the main attractions. You’ll have time to enjoy lunch and take a leisurely walk. We’ll then continue to Trani, known as “the pearl of the Adriatic.” This magnificent city embraces the sea and showcases its stunning pink Romanesque cathedral. We’ll arrive in Bari later in the day, where you’ll have some free time to explore the lively port, stroll along the seafront, and wander through the old town’s narrow alleys before heading to the hotel.

Jour 5

After breakfast, we’ll have time to explore the old town of Bari, a port city with a history that predates Roman times. Its narrow streets, churches, and lively atmosphere make it a truly special place. Later, we’ll continue to Brindisi, where we’ll board a modern ferry (scheduled departure at 1:00 p.m.) for our journey across the Ionian Sea. We’ll arrive in Igoumenitsa, Greece, after an 8-hour journey and head to our accommodation.Note: During the ferry journey, you’ll need to keep your luggage with you. If the group is small, you may travel without an accompanying Europamundo guide. A new guide will meet you upon arrival.

Jour 6

After breakfast, we´ll journey through the tall mountains of Epirus to reach Metsovo, a charming Balkan village nestled between mountains. Isolated by rugged terrain, this area retains a unique culture influenced by Slavic and Turkish traditions. Take time to wander its streets lined with traditional stone houses, red tile roofs, and intricately carved wooden balconies. Continuing into Thessaly, we´ll stop in Kastraki, a quaint village offering stunning views of the Meteora Valley. Enjoy lunch before exploring the Meteora, a remarkable World Heritage Site. The name "Metéora" in Greek means "suspended in the air" or "in the sky," aptly describing the towering rock formations crowned with monasteries. These secluded sites have been havens for monks seeking solitude and tranquility for centuries. Our visit includes admission to one of its most renowned monasteries. We´ll end our day in Kalabaka, where dinner will be included.

Jour 7

We’ll journey south through the Thessaly region, where you’ll experience stunning landscapes, before reaching Delphi. Here, we´ll explore the exquisite archaeological site overlooking the Gulf of Corinth, with breathtaking views. There will be time for lunch. Following that, we´ll head to the Hosios Loukas Monastery, renowned as one of the most beautiful Byzantine monasteries in Greece and a World Heritage Site. Its magnificent 11th-century mosaics are truly remarkable. We´ll then continue our journey towards Athens, arriving in the evening.

Jour 8

We´ll embark on a city tour of Athens with a local guide, visiting landmarks such as the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the National Library, and the bustling squares of the city center. We´ll also explore the newer neighborhoods that developed after the 2004 Olympic Games. The tour will conclude at the Acropolis (admission not included). In the evening, we´ll provide a transfer to the historical neighborhood of Plaka, renowned for its charming Greek tavernas and opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich folklore of this country.

Jour 9

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.