Celebrate culture, coastline, history, and heritage during your custom-tailored tour for seniors through France, Italy, and Greece. Follow the evolution of Western Civilization in the monuments and artwork that is reflected in the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Colosseum in Rome, and Parthenon in Athens. Indulge in the almond flavor of sweet wine on the Italian Riviera, and marvel at the collective works of Matisse on France’s Côte d’Azur. You can also troll along marble walkways that lead to splendid...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Paris – The Charm of Paris
The Paris of classic movies and elegant dreams will be instantly recognizable along the wide boulevards that are lined with trees and charming bistros along cobbled lanes. The windows of boulangeries will display delicious chocolate croissants and colorful macarons while boutiques will reflect the iconic style of one of the world’s fashion capitals. Your private transfer will greet you at Charles de Gaulle Airport upon your arrival and will escort you to the comforts of your luxury accommodations located near the bank of the famous Seine River.
The marvels of the past will capture your imagination with a skyline boasting the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame de Paris, and Louvre Museum. The contemporary vibrancy of France’s capital city embraces its history while looking to the future by representing French cuisine at lively street markets or in Michelin-starred restaurants. You will enjoy an introduction to the city with a night cruise down the Seine River. The City of Lights will put on a grand show that fills the sky with gorgeous images of the floodlit Eiffel Tower and the Musée d’Orsay, as well as stunning views of the gargoyles and dramatic towers of Notre Dame’s imposing cathedral.
What's Included:
Day 2 - 4
Paris – Captivating History and Architecture
Day 5 - 8
Nice – The Stunning South of France
Day 9 - 12
Genoa – The Italian Riviera’s Stunning Allure
Day 13 - 16
Rome – The History and Art of Rome
Day 17 - 20
Athens – The History of Athens
Day 21
Athens – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Enjoy a stunning view of Paris at night from the tranquil waters of the Seine River during an introductory night cruise
- Witness the extravagant detail and lively depiction of Renaissance life in the work of Raphael inside the Vatican Museum
- Wander the sensational summit of the Acropolis in Athens for a captivating view of the ancient world embodied in the image of the Parthenon
- Traverse the picturesque towns and waters of the Italian Riviera as they are captured in the likes of Cinque Terre where you sample the local wine during a tasting
- Enjoy the serene views of the Mediterranean Sea that accentuate the fascinating works of Matisse on display inside the Matisse Museum in Nice, France
- Explore the maze-like galleries of the Louvre Museum to discover enchanting artwork and artifacts including the Vinos de Milo and Rosetta Stone
- Find inspiration in the breathtaking dome that crowns the Pantheon in Rome, which inspired architects like Michelangelo and Brunelleschi
- Delight in the serene, marble esplanade and charming cafes that create the warm ambiance of Hydra in the Saronic Gulf
- Experience the grandeur in the illustrious historical design of the apartments, halls, and gardens of Versailles
- Learn how to make remarkable personalized fragrances during a private workshop at a famous parfumerie in Eze
Detailed Description
Your 21-day senior tour of France, Italy, and Greece will present the majesty of the Mediterranean that derives from the marvelous museums and beautiful beaches that you will experience on your trip. You will also witness the iconic images acting as national symbols, while also experiencing the authentic, distinctive cultures. Whether wandering through medieval towns and lavish palaces, or museums reflecting some of Western Civilization’s most significant works of art, the architecture, gastronomy, and ancient history will inspire your spirit for an extraordinary discovery of essential Europe at your preferred pace.
Your fascinating adventure will begin with eight days in France that capture the essential ambiance as it derives from café terraces, active markets, charming bistros, and sophisticated museums. Three days in Paris will become an introduction to the symbols of the city with private guided tours through the renowned neighborhoods such as St. Germaine and Montmartre, as well as famous monuments including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre Museum. Versailles will become your elegant playground for a day with a guided tour that leads you through the gilded rooms, lavish halls, and exuberant gardens that are decorated with blossoming flowers and enchanting fountains. The city of Nice along the Côte d’Azur will act as your homebase for four days as you discover the elegant coastal atmosphere of this historic town and celebrated beaches.
Eight days in Italy will begin with your arrival in the elegant port city of Genoa, with four days dedicated to exploring the grandeur of the former maritime powerhouse along the old streets and acclaimed towns that line the Italian Riviera. You will wander along the medieval gates of the old city with your guide at the edge of the historical harbor and discover the preserved luxuriousness that is displayed in the palaces on Via Garibaldi. You will embrace the relaxed ambiance of the five towns of Cinque Terre, finding the views serene, the colors captivating, and the local wine sampled during a private tasting. Four days in Rome will bring the symbols of Italy to the forefront with guided tours that lead you through the likes of the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. The ancient, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque eras of Rome combine in the city center and shine brightly in Vatican City among breathtaking artwork such as the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel and Raphael’s work in the Papal apartments.
Arriving in Greece will bring you to the final branch of your European exploration with four full immersive days in Athens at the heart of ancient history and the beauty of Greece’s treasured islands. The historic city contains layers of fascinating heritage that range from before the Hellenistic period to the rule of the Ottoman empire. You will visit the Acropolis Hill, which is home to the Parthenon, and you will discover the point at which mythology and history combine at the ruins of Mycenae. You will traverse the remains of the former mighty city of Corinth and enjoy the charming marble streets that are lined with nineteenth-century splendor at Nafplio, the first capital of Greece. A full day along the waters of the Saronic Gulf will have you disembarking at the islands of Aegina, Poros, and Hydra for an experience within the charismatic architecture, stunning coastal views, and charming life along the quay. Make sure your vacation is an unforgettable one by seeing additional France, Italy, and Greece travel ideas.
Starting Price
$7,261 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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