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History Comes to Life: A Family Adventure from Rome to the Aegean

Bring the past to life with a family journey that blends discovery, creativity, and fun across Italy and Greece. Begin in Rome, where a private tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum lets your family step into the footsteps of gladiators and emperors. Next, head to Florence and dive into Italian culture with a hands-on pizza and gelato making class—sure to be a highlight for kids and adults alike. Then fly to Athens, where history becomes a grand adventure with a family-focused Acropolis and museum tour, followed by a creative session painting the Parthenon together. Cap off your trip on the magical island of Santorini, where you’ll sail the caldera’s turquoise waters on a morning cruise, soaking up sunshine and breathtaking views. With interactive experiences and memorable moments at every stop, this itinerary promises a lively and enriching escape for the whole family.

Highlights

Set off on a family adventure that brings history, art, and island magic together from Rome to Santorini. Start in Rome, where ancient wonders come alive with a private exploration of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Journey to Florence for a delicious experience, rolling dough and crafting sweet treats in a pizza and gelato making class designed for families. In Athens, marvel at the Acropolis and its treasures with expert guides who make the stories of the past exciting for kids. Then, let your creativity shine with a family painting session inspired by the Parthenon. Your adventure concludes in Santorini, where a sparkling morning caldera cruise offers unforgettable views and time to relax by the sea. Perfectly paced for discovery and fun, this trip is designed to inspire young explorers and create memories for all ages.

Price from
3500 Euros Per Person
Best for
Families
Best time to visit
April - October
Adventure level
Easy

Itinerary

Day1
Rome
Welcome to Rome!

According to legend, Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus in 753 BC. Rome first was the center of the Roman Republic, then of the Roman Empire, until finally, it became the capital of the Christian world in the 4th century. Italy’s vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here.

Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches and the treasures of Vatican City strive for your attention. Apart from enjoying the history, perhaps your most memorable experiences in Rome may include sitting at a café in the Campo de Fiori or strolling in a charming piazza. Rome has a vibrant energy, which makes you think that this city is extremely large. Just keep walking around. Eventually, you’ll realize that Rome is not quite as big as you thought. Everyone knows everyone. If you visit the same places and piazzas a few times, you’ll find that they know you, too.

This is Rome, where anything goes, with beautiful chaos and contradictions.

Day2
Rome
Colosseum & Roman Forum - Private

Embark on a captivating journey back in time as you explore the wonders of Ancient Rome. Delight in exclusive priority access, whisking through the iconic arches of the Colosseum and weaving among the remnants of the Roman Forum.

Under the guidance of your knowledgeable tour guide, immerse yourself in tales of gladiator battles, Roman emperors, and the marvels of ancient Roman architecture and engineering. The Colosseum, a colossal amphitheater, stands as a testament to Roman grandeur, its sheer size making it the largest of its kind ever constructed. Despite its dark history hosting bloodshed and cruel spectacles, the Colosseum also stands as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, showcasing the unparalleled feats of Roman ingenuity and craftsmanship. Prepare to be transported to an era of ancient splendor and discover the awe-inspiring legacy of Rome’s monumental past.

Inclusions

  • 3-hour private guided experience
  • Private services of a state-licensed guide
  • Entrance fees to the Colosseum
Day3
Florence
Welcome to Florence!

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.

Day4
Florence
Florence Pizza & Gelato Making Class - Small Group

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
Day5
Athens
Welcome to Athens!

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.

Day6
Athens
Acropolis & Acropolis Museum For Families - Private

You will be greeted by your expert licensed guide as you embark on an enriching historical journey to two of Greece’s most iconic treasures—the Acropolis and the captivating Acropolis Museum.

Your tour begins as you ascend the sacred rock of the Acropolis, where the awe-inspiring Parthenon, one of the most significant structures in human history, awaits. With the help of your specialized guide, you’ll dive deeper into the experience using an innovative mobile application featuring augmented reality. This tool will bring the ancient world to life, providing a visual and interactive layer to your exploration. Alongside these modern aids, your guide will share captivating myths and stories from ancient times, while engaging the entire family with fun, educational games that make history come alive.

After your Acropolis tour, your journey continues at the renowned Acropolis Museum. Spanning multiple floors, this architectural masterpiece houses extraordinary statues, sculptures, and artifacts from the Archaic and Classical periods, all beautifully displayed. Your children will be fascinated by the rich storytelling behind each exhibit, as they discover the cultural heritage of ancient Greece. Walk along glass floors above ongoing excavations, marvel at the majestic statues, and gaze out at panoramic views of the Acropolis itself—a perfect blend of ancient history and modern marvel.

If you wish to continue exploring the city, feel free to ask your guide for recommendations to perfect your day in Athens. Athens is an ancient city that has evolved into a contemporary metropolitan, continuously keeping up with the new trends of the modern world. However, Greece’s capital is immensely proud of its important heritage; it has successfully integrated the ancient sections into the contemporary scene, creating a unique blend.

Inclusions

  • 4-hour private guided tour
  • Hotel pick-up (walking)
  • 2-hour visit to the Acropolis Site
  • 2-hour visit to the New Acropolis Museum
  • Tour specially designed for children and adjusted according to children’s ages
  • Augmented-Reality mobile application for Acropolis (unique password will be provided)
  • Private services of child-friendly state-licensed guide
  • Entrance fees
Day7
Athens
Painting the Parthenon - Private

An inspiring art activity that will have you skip the souvenir shops as you will paint your Parthenon Masterpiece!

Your “Insider” professional painter will take you to a hill right in the center of Athens where the view of the Parthenon is as clear as day, Pnyx Hill. Apart from being the official meeting place of the Athenian democratic assembly, Pnyx Hill’s location is ideal for drawing the Parthenon as the angle between the hills of Philopappos and Nymphon makes the Parthenon seem even more impressive than it is.

Hike the small hill and feast your eyes on the incredible vistas that will stimulate your artistic senses. But before you start capturing the view on your canvas, listen to your expert guide, who will show you practical painting techniques to help you bring the impressive monument to life.

Choose the paintbrushes that suit you, and let the stroke of the bristles sway you. Add dashes of colors of your liking to give your painting the extra oomph. For your final touch, slap on your signature, as a signature is an artist’s extension claiming ownership.

After two hours brimming with creativity and imagination, you might have a splash of paint on your hands and perhaps even your shirt, but you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation and newfound passion for the arts! After these 2 hours full of productivity and imagination, you may have paint on your hands and shirt, but you will have gained a new sense of love for the arts!

Inclusions

  • 3-hour private outdoor activity
  • Hotel pick-up (walking)
  • 2-hour private outdoor painting activity
  • Private services of a child-friendly “Insider” artist
  • All necessary materials and props for the activity
Day8
Santorini
Welcome to Santorini!

Santorini is one of the most famous islands in the world because of its beauty, its special allure, and the kindness of its people.

Also known as Thira in ancient times, this island belongs to a group of islands in the Cyclades’ southernmost region.

The volcano on Santorini is one of the few active volcanoes in Greek and European land.The islands that make up Santorini were formed by intense volcanic activity: Massive eruptions caused the central part of the volcano to collapse, creating a large crater known as a caldera.

To sit in front of the caldera to behold the breathtaking view of an active volcano while enjoying the local cuisine, a drink, or a cup of coffee…It’s an unforgettable experience that must be lived at least once in a lifetime.

Day9
Santorini
Platinum Morning Caldera Cruise - Small Group

With this experience, you will have the unique opportunity to view the beautiful Caldera with your loved ones from the comfort of your catamaran.

You will be transferred to the port to embark on your catamaran, where the captain and crew will greet you with a welcome drink.

Get ready to take a dip at the first stop of this journey, the Hot Springs, and sail past Aspronisi, the Lighthouse, Akrotiri, and Indian Rock. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Red Beach and ask the crew for the snorkeling equipment, as you should definitely explore the seafloor!
You will stop by the White Beach for swimming and BBQ, where you will enjoy a variety of Greek dishes, all cooked and served on board.

Finally, the catamaran will be anchored to the port, where your transfer will be waiting for your return.

Inclusions

  • 5-hour small-group excursion (max 14 pax)
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Vehicle)
  • Services of an English speaking captain & crew
  • Lunch and drinks on board
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Towels & blankets (to be returned to the crew)
  • Map with extensive info on the landmarks and destinations
  • Floating devices
  • WC & facilities for washing seawater off (ask the crew)
Day10
Departure
Departure Day

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.

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