10-Day Southern Italy and Greece Adventure Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii in Italy. This well-preserved city shows how life was like in ancient times at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. Walk through the history-filled streets and see the impressive amphitheatre.
• Day 2: Visit the stunning Amalfi Coast, a picturesque stretch of coastline with vibrant villages nestled between towering cliffs and sparkling blue sea. Swim in the refreshing waters, hike the rugged trails, and taste the delicious seafood.
• Day 3: Make your way to Taormina in Sicily where you can watch the sunset over the Ionian Sea from the ancient Greek amphitheater.
• Day 4: Take a day trip to the Aeolian Islands, an archipelago with pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming coastal towns.
• Day 5: Fly to Athens, Greece and explore the vibrant city. Admire the impressive ancient structures, climb up to the Acropolis, and stroll through the charming Plaka neighborhood for some shopping and dining.
• Day 6: Visit the Meteora Monasteries in northwestern Greece, situated atop towering natural rock formations. These monasteries were built using a system of ropes, pulleys, and baskets, and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
• Day 7: Hike the Samaria Gorge, a 16-kilometer canyon in western Crete boasting stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and refreshing natural pools.
• Day 8: Explore the beautiful island of Santorini, famous for its romantic sunsets, charming villages, and stunning beaches. Try some of the local wine, stroll through the cobblestone alleys, and take in the awe-inspiring views of the caldera.
• Day 9: Take a boat tour of the beautiful Navagio Beach on the island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea. Swim in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the white sand, and explore the beautiful caves.
• Day 10: End your trip by visiting the ancient Greek city of Olympia, where the first Olympic Games were held. Explore the impressive ruins, visit the Archaeological Museum, and learn about the history of the games.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Pompeii Ruins (2-3 hours, $20)
• Amalfi Coast (full day, $100)
• Taormina amphitheater (1-2 hours, $20)
• Aeolian Islands day trip (full day, $150)
• Athens Acropolis (2-3 hours, $20)
• Meteora Monasteries (3-4 hours, $50)
• Samaria Gorge hike (6-8 hours, $30)
• Santorini island exploration (full day, $100)
• Navagio Beach boat tour (4-5 hours, $60)
• Olympia (2-3 hours, $20)
Total Estimated Costs: $570

Transportation

Transportation during this trip can include flights, rental cars, ferries, and buses. Flight costs will vary depending on the season and destination, ranging from $50-$200. Rental car rates will depend on the type of car and rental service, ranging from $30-$80 per day. Ferries are the best option for island travel and cost around $30-$50 per crossing. Buses are another reliable and affordable mode of transportation, with fares ranging from $5-$20 depending on the route and distance.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a few days to explore the historic city of Rome and the charming island of Mykonos. If you have less time, consider skipping Taormina and Olympia to spend more time in Athens and Santorini. Remember to bring sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a swimsuit for all the amazing beaches.