Classical Discovery

Enjoy a walk through the heart of Rome as you discover a maze of narrow streets, avenues and iconic sights.

Start at the Spanish Steps, a favorite spot for Romans and tourists alike. These monumental stairs lead from Piazza di Spagna, a square graced by a 17th-century fountain, to the church of Trinità dei Monti on top of the hill. Nearby, you'll see the Keats-Shelley House, last residence of the poet John Keats, the exclusive Babington Tea Rooms, and Via dei Condotti, lined with high fashion boutiques such as Armani, Prada, Versace, and Gucci.

Proceed past picturesque piazzas, restaurants and gelato shops on your way to the Trevi Fountain, which was the terminal of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct. Throw a coin over your right shoulder and into the spray to ensure your return to this wonderful city!

Inside the "Temple to All the Gods," you will understand why it has been called one of the better-preserved and most harmonious monuments of antiquity.

Walk through the plaza built on the site of Domitian's Stadium. Lined with grand buildings and trendy cafes, this oblong square is adorned with statues and fountains, notably Bernini's Fountain of the Four Rivers.

Tonight, enjoy dinner with entertainment at the restaurant Le Terme del Colosseo, which is located between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, in halls with arched ceilings and exposed stone. It offers a variety of Italian dishes accompanied by musical entertainment titled "Roman Fantasy," with singers in costume.

Explore the picturesque Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, which is nestled around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis. Narrow streets, plazas, tavernas and countless shops are the trademark of this pedestrian area, which is popular with street performers and vendors. You'll find jewelry and native crafts in abundance.

Your walk takes you past Hadrian's Arch, built by the Roman Emperor in AD 131, on your way to the colossal ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, also called the Olympieion. The largest temple in Greece, it was begun in the 6th century BC and completed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.

Discover the serene beauty of the National Gardens of Athens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. This lush, green haven offers a delightful escape from the urban hustle, inviting visitors to wander through its well-kept paths, shaded by tall trees and vibrant floral displays. The gardens, rich in history and natural charm, feature a variety of native and exotic plants, tranquil ponds, and ancient ruins. Ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, or quiet reflection, the National Gardens provide a picturesque setting that captivates both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst their Athenian exploration.

Make your way to Syntagma Square or to the Presidential Palace, where the Changing of the Guard takes place every hour, daily.

On Sunday, the pageantry is even more impressive when the Guard departs Syntagma Square at 11 am for the Monument of the Unknown Soldier. There's nothing like watching the Evzones, their historic uniform, their immobility on duty when standing still, their high steps, and the slow motion of their movements during a ceremony.

Visit the Ancient Agora, a marketplace which became the political heart of the city and the birthplace of democracy. You'll walk in the footsteps of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, the orator Demosthenes (famous for talking with pebbles in his mouth), the historian Xenophon, the Apostle Paul, and many, many more.

See the Hephaisteion, started in 445 BC and the best-preserved classical temple in Greece, the Tholos, seat of the Athenian government, and the Odeon of Agrippa, built in 15 BC. Walk past the ruins of the House of the Cobbler Simon, of the Stoa Basileios and of the Stoa of Zeus Eleutherios, all places where Socrates was reported to have discussed philosophy, and see the State Prison where he was detained and where he drank the hemlock cup in 399 BC.

Excavations have uncovered the site of the Stoa of Poecile, which gave its name to the Stoic school of philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium, who began teaching there in 301 BC.

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Greece with our Athens Cultural Dining Experience. Enjoy an evening filled with authentic Greek cuisine, lively music, and traditional dancing, all set in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. This unforgettable night captures the essence of Greek culture, offering guests a unique opportunity to savor local flavors while enjoying performances that showcase the country's rich heritage. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience promises to be a highlight of your journey in Athens. Join us for an enchanting evening that blends culinary delights with cultural entertainment, creating memories that will last a lifetime.