2018 Greece & Italy Optional
Prices are per person at the time of posting
MYKONOS
Delos $79
Journey by boat to the island of Delos, rich with mythological history and once one of Greece's most sacred spots. Your guided tour of the island's ancient city will transport you to the time when this was an important center for trade in silk, spices and slaves. You can explore the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Sacred Cave, the Lion Terrace and the House Dionysus, where you will find a breathtaking mosaic of the god of wine.
MYKONOS
Cooking Class & Dinner $89
Your first stop is in the village of Ano Mera where, you will pay a visit to the 18th-century Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and enjoy free time to explore the surrounding town square. After you have worked up an appetite in town, make your way to a local farm where you will craft traditional dishes such as Mykonian pie and tzatziki. Then, pair your creations with a tasting of three different Greek wines for a delicious dinner you will enjoy with the group.
SANTORINI
Caldera Cruise and Dinner $119
Board an elegant, fully equipped catamaran and sail in comfort through Santorini's awe-inspiring caldera on this scenic excursion. You will cruise around the volcanic island of Nes Kamenium for views of the picture perfect cliffside village of Oia (pronounced EE-ah) Situated on the western end of the island, Oia was once a maritime center and stately captains' houses still sit on its high ridges. Take in the scenery and the sunset (on clear days) as you enjoy a buffet-style dinner of home-cooked Greek specialities on board the boat. Please note: This excursion is dependent upon weather conditions. A welcome drink glass of wine, and water are included.
SANTORINI
Greek Wine Tasting & Lunch $55
Santorini's volcanic landscape and nutrient-rich soil nurtures a wealth of outstanding vineyards. On this excursion you will tour a local winery, enjoying a film screening followed by a wine tasting. Taste five different varieties, including Vin Santo, a sweet wine made from dried grapes, then enjoy a light lunch overlooking the Aegean Sea.
SANTORINI
The Greek Wedding Show $69
A different show in Santorini and nothing like anything you have ever seen! A unique musical that engages couples, children, families and friends with the local culture in an entertaining way.The Greek Wedding Show is not only a “Greek night” but an interactive performance with actors, dancers, singers, musicians and you. Celebrate the greek culture through the music and dance. Enjoy plenty of wine and the famous Greek mezedes.
Several travelers have done the Vatican City optional on previous trips. I need to hear from you individually regarding this optional.
ROME
Dinner with the Tenors $79
End your day with an elegant four-course dinner at a local restaurant. While you dine, you will be treated to some of opera's best loved arias, sung by professional tenors, and you might even join the singers on stage. Don not miss this lighthearted evening of food and fun.
SORRENTO
Lost City of Pompeii $89
Travel to Pompeii for a guided tour of the famous ruins. Discover how Roman citizens lived 2,000 years ago, before Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD and smothered the town of Pompeii in a flood of volcanic ash. View the excavated ruins of theaters, villas, temples and baths. Pompeii is located near the idyllic Bay of Naples, known for its expansive views of the area's islands, capes and nearby Mount Vesuvius.
ROME
Iconic Sights: Vatican City $99
This guided tour takes you inside the world's smallest state, Vatican City. Upon arrival you will first visit the Vatican Museums which are over 500 years old and hold many of the world's most important Classical and Renaissance era sculptures. Next step inside the Sistine Chapel where you will gaze at what is perhaps Michelangelo's greatest masterpiece. Finally visit St. Peter's Basilica, the epicenter of the Roman Catholic faith. Masterpieces await at every turn, from Bernini's magnificent canopy to Michelangelo's Pieta. Please note: Backpacks are not allowed in the Vatican and a dress code of no shorts or sleeveless shirts is enforced.
SORRENTO
Rustic Italy:
Farmhouse Dinner & Wine Tasting $89
Take a short trip outside of Sorrento for a cultural experience at an agriturismo, or farm stay. Here you will have a chance to explore the lush gardens, cultivated fields and vegetation, typical of man Mediterranean regions. After touring the farm, savor an aperitif of prosecco, meant to stimulate the appetite. A four-course dinner will follow, complete with a wine tasting led by an experienced sommelier. After an evening experiencing the Italian art of eating, return to Sorrento.
There are several day trip options from Sorrento. Some of which include Capri. At our last meeting we discussed both boat and land options. We do not all have to choose the same option. I am listing the Go Ahead offering as a comparison. But I am working on a boat option on our own. I will share details once they are confirmed.
SORRENTO
Capri: A Day on the Iconic Island $105
Travel by ferry to the fabled Isle of Capri, a beloved resort since the days of the Roman Republic. Weather permitting, you will enjoy a boat ride around the island. Later, you will enjoy free time to discover why everyone from Roman emperors to Sophia Loren have spent their vacations in Capri. If weather prohibits a boat ride, you will travel to the village of Anacapri, which offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Please note: This excursion is weather-dependent.
Unless you are really interested in the catacombs, we can visit St. Paul Outside the wall without signing up for this optional.
Corinth is a good tour but you need to realize that you will lose time in Athens when selecting this tour.
ATHENS
Corinth $69
Journey to Corinth. Begin with a view of the Corinth Canal, followed by a guided tour of the archaeological site of Ancient to explore the temples, bathouse, forum and theater.
St. Paul Outside the Wall and Catacombs $69
Descend into Rome's ancient catacombs, where early Christians buried saints and popes alongside commoners. A local guide will lead you through burial chambers before your visit to St. Paul's Basilica, one of the four most important basilicas of Rome, originally founded by Constantine the Great. The Basilica also houses the tomb of St. Paul. Please note: Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted within the basilica. Also, this excursion involves extensive walking and may be inadvisable for claustrophobic travelers.