Coastlines, Castles & Cyclades: A 10-Day Family Escape Through Italy & Greece

Uncover the timeless art of Venetian mask-making, a tradition steeped in over 800 years of history. In this engaging and hands-on two-hour workshop, you’ll transform a plain white mask into a stunning masterpiece using one of seven authentic decorating techniques. Guided by skilled artisans, you’ll explore the intricate process of mask decoration, learning the secrets behind this iconic Venetian craft.

As you work, your instructors will provide expert guidance, allowing you to refine and adjust your design until it perfectly reflects your vision. Whether bold and dramatic or delicate and intricate, your mask will come to life as a one-of-a-kind creation.

This workshop offers more than just a creative experience—it’s an opportunity to connect with a storied tradition that has shaped Venetian culture for centuries. And as a keepsake, you’ll leave with your beautifully decorated mask, ready to dazzle at the next Carnival or adorn your home as a cherished memory of your time in Venice.

Inclusions:

• 2-hour private experience
• Pick-up from a designated meeting point
• Private services of a local guide
• Mask painting lesson
• Your painted mask

Florence was built on the site of an Etruscan settlement and rose to economic and cultural pre-eminence under the Medici in the 15th and 16th centuries. Inspired by a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman cultures, medieval values were abandoned in favor of new philosophies and modes of living that saw the beginnings of humanistic thought.

More than a third of the world’s most valuable art pieces reside within the remnants of the city walls. Discover the noticeable works that include Michelangelo’s David, Caravaggio’s Medusa, and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Renaissance notions of order, beauty, and rationality are demonstrated in the city’s architecture. Observe the perfectly symmetrical domes, courtyards, arcades, and fountains. A short walk through the city’s historic center will take you past countless museums and churches that are home to the world’s largest collection of Renaissance art, including the Uffizi Gallery, the Galleria dell’Accademia, and Il Duomo di Firenze.

This is Florence, the symbol of the Renaissance.

Indulge in an unforgettable afternoon of culinary delights! Join our expert chef for a journey through the rich history of Italian pizza and gelato. Discover the art of crafting the perfect pizza dough, and learn the secrets behind a delectable yet light tomato sauce that will transport your taste buds to Italy.

Once you’ve mastered pizza-making, dive into the world of gelato. Explore the raw ingredients, understand the nuances of flavor development, and witness the magic of creating this delightful frozen treat. The science behind gelato is intriguing, but the real joy comes when you witness the warm chocolate drizzle over fresh cream, leading to the perfect consistency for your indulgent taste test!

Homemade pizza and gelato are the epitome of true Italian flavors, creating an unforgettable experience for families, couples, solo-travelers, and friends alike. This easy and enjoyable class promises lasting memories of a day filled with passion, tradition, and mouthwatering treats.

Inclusions:

• 3-hour small group experience (max 12 pax)
• Services of a professional local chef
• Use of apron and cooking utensils
• All ingredients for pizza & gelato making
• Dinner with wine tastings (soft drinks for children)
• Graduation certificate

Keep in mind

• Comfortable shoes are recommended
• Please inform us of any food intolerances, or allergies in advance

Welcome to Athens, Greece’s bustling capital.

The city of Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities, the historical capital of Europe, and a city of culture, history, and philosophy. Athens today is a vibrant metropolis that blends its proud past with its dynamic modern present. This enchanting capital offers a feast of things to see and do, such as endless sites and monuments, nonstop nightlife, and intricate cuisine.

Explore Athens’ most iconic landmarks with a licensed expert guide as you embark on a captivating cycling tour through the heart of the city’s historic center. Pedal your way alongside ancient wonders and modern marvels. This dynamic and eco-friendly journey offers a fresh perspective on Athens’ rich history and vibrant culture, allowing you to experience the city’s timeless beauty in an exciting and unforgettable way. Perfect for those who crave adventure and a unique sightseeing experience!

Your tour will begin at the most significant ancient site, the Acropolis. You will ascend to the top of the sacred rock of the Acropolis to be confronted by one of the world’s most important structures in history, the Parthenon. Once there, you will enjoy a guided tour that will reveal Athens’ magnitude and rich heritage and the cultural achievements of the Greek civilization of the Golden Age.

Then, you will meet your e-bike expert. You will conveniently explore the city of Athens by using high-quality e-bikes. You will explore, together with your guide, all the breathtaking monuments of Athens and pass by all the must-see locations and some off-beaten paths. The electric bikes will guarantee a relaxed and enjoyable ride. The city has successfully integrated the ancient sections into the contemporary scene – the blend is unique and beautiful.

Inclusions

• 5.5-hour private experience
• Hotel pick-up (walking)
• 2-hour Acropolis private guided tour
• Private services of a state-licensed guide
• 3-hour (approx) private cycling tour
• E-bikes and safety equipment
• English speaking Bike tour leader
• English speaking Insider escort
• Snack pack (energy bar and bottle water per person)
• Acropolis Entrance fees

When looking for a place that brings together different types of architecture, beautiful landscapes as well as culture and tradition the answer is clear: Naxos

The largest and greenest island of the Cyclades boasts towering mountains, rich valleys, and breathtaking seascapes.

In its villages, located high on mountain summits, the residents still dress traditional clothes and live off the land’s bounty. At the entrance of the port is the islet of Palatia where there’s an impressive marble gate, Apollo temple, dating back to the 6th century BC. According to legend, in this place known as “Portara” the god Dionysius found Ariadni there, after being abandoned by Theseus.

On the island, you can also find the classic Cycladic architecture along with Venetian castles, monasteries, and beautiful medieval churches.

This blend of styles coexists peacefully inviting you to visit and admire it since it’s a sight to behold.

Prepare for an exciting family adventure tailored for kids and parents alike, filled with hands-on activities, delicious tastings, and a taste of Greek traditions!

Start with a scenic drive to a peaceful village nestled away from the town’s bustle. Here, you’ll be welcomed with a breakfast of homemade pancakes drizzled with local honey and freshly squeezed orange juice. Energized, we’ll journey back in time with a visit to the “sleeping giant,” an ancient kouros statue, where the captivating myths of Greek gods and heroes come alive for curious minds.

The adventure continues at a traditional olive press, where you’ll learn the secrets of Greek olive oil and get to make your very own olive bread! While the bread bakes in a traditional oven, kids can enjoy fun and engaging games led by an expert kindergarten teacher, all inspired by Greek culture.

Finally, the whole family will come together to savor the freshly baked olive bread, paired with a selection of other delicious local treats. This tour perfectly blends learning, play, and authentic tastes, creating an unforgettable experience for the entire family to enjoy!

Inclusions

• 5-hour private experience
• Hotel pick up and drop off (vehicle)
• Private services of an English speaking local expert experienced with children
• Olive oil and honey  tasting
• Traditional snacks

Embark on an unforgettable adventure aboard a luxurious catamaran. The journey begins at 9:30 am from Naxos Marina, right across from the Waffle House. As you step on board, meet your fellow travelers and savor a cup of coffee to kickstart your day.

Prepare for an experience that will leave you with lasting memories. We’ll take you to pristine, hidden beaches and secluded coves, inviting you to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. We provide snorkeling gear for everyone, ensuring you can explore the beautiful underwater world. Our first stop is at an unspoiled cove featuring crystal-clear waters and unique clay formations. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in some natural mud bathing before enjoying a brunch filled with local flavors.

The adventure continues as we head towards endless sandy shores that cradle strangely shaped rocks. Take an exhilarating leap with a cliff jump, adding an extra thrill to your journey. Recharge with a delicious traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients, served alongside a Greek salad, cold refreshments, raki, beer, and wine.

On the return trip, we’ll visit another endless sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, offering a final opportunity for a refreshing dive and some fresh fruit salads. This extraordinary catamaran excursion spans approximately 7 hours and promises to be a highlight of your vacation.

Inclusions

• Approx. 7-hour small group experience (max 25 pax)
• Coffee & homemade cookies
• Delicious traditional lunch served on-board
• Cold refreshments & chilled local wine served with lunch
• Fresh fruit salads
• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins) & swimming flotation aids
• Lifejackets for all ages

What to bring

• Beach bag & swimsuit
• Sunscreen lotion
• Hat & camera

Today, you will have to say goodbye to beautiful Greece. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the island airport for your domestic flight back to Athens. After arriving at Athens Airport, check in to your international flight and depart Greece.

Today, you will bid farewell to beautiful Greece. However, the places you visited, the people you met, and the exciting experiences you had will always accompany you and have a special place in your heart!

As you reminisce about the fond memories while looking at the photographs you took and the souvenirs you are bringing with you, get ready to share all about your trip with your loved ones back home.