Compare Classical Greece & Southern Italy by Titan Travel vs Premium Split to Dubrovnik by Intrepid Travel

Day 1 UK - Athens
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your flight to Athens. On arrival, you are met by Voyages to Antiquity representatives and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 Athens
Athens has been influenced by many, and has itself influenced the world. Choose to visit the Acropolis, the 5th century BC site dominated by the Parthenon; or visit Illissia Mansion, home to the Byzantine and Christian Museum which holds the world’s largest collection of icons, and then the Byzantine Monastery of Kaisariani with its fine frescoes and elegant gardens.

Day 3 Athens - Piraeus
Today we explore the scenic Argolis Peninsula in the eastern Peloponnesus and visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Epidaurus, a pure masterpiece of Greek architecture and Mycenae, one of the great cities of the Mycenaean civilisation. This full-day excursion also features a cruise of the Corinth Canal and a traditional lunch in a Greek restaurant. This afternoon we embark Aegean Odyssey (4T) in Piraeus.

Day 4 Gythion
We spend the morning in Gythion with a choice of two excursions; on the first you’ll discover a glorious array of Byzantine monuments in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Mystras, then a drive to the peak of the city for views of Sparta, before descending to explore the lower town on foot. Or, sail into Diros Cave on a small fishing boat and explore the narrow passageways of this prehistoric dwelling place. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 5 Katakolon
Katakolon is a small fishing village approximately an hour for the mystical site of Ancient Olympia, sacred ground to the people of the Peloponnese Peninsula as early as the 10th century BC. After your exploration of the famous grounds, visit the archaeological museum - among the great finds of the area that are displayed here, are the Head of Hera and ornaments from the Temple of Zeus, and the helmet of Miltiades, the Athenian general during Athens' 'Golden Age'.

Day 6 Itea
Choose to explore Ancient Delphi, responsible for founding one of the earliest rivals of the Olympics - the Pythian Games. Today the stadium is the best preserved ancient arena in the world, but some other buildings have had to be restored, including the Treasury of Athens and the Altar of the Chians. Alternatively you can opt to take a short journey from Itea to the monastery of Osios Loukas, on the slopes of Mount Helicon.

Day 7 Corfu
We spend this morning in Corfu with a choice of two excursions; on the first you’ll discover the very essence of Byzantine Corfu beginning with time in the historic Campielo quarter’s Byzantine Museum, then a short walk through Corfu Town. Your second choice is a visit to the Achilleion Palace; built in 1890 by the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, to be her summer palace.

Day 8 Dubrovnik, Croatia
Arrive in the UNESCO-protected walled city of Dubrovnik, where many bell towers, copper domes and the 10th century wall dominate the landscape. Join a sightseeing walking tour of this powerful city founded in the 7th century; despite a disastrous earthquake in 1667, many of the city’s stunning Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance churches, palaces, monasteries and exquisite fountains still remain in good shape. Following the tour there will be free time to explore the nooks and crannies of the Old Town. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 9 Brindisi (Lecce), Italy
Lecce is a city of ancient ruins, grand Baroque churches and elegant palaces. Today, we join a guided tour including the grand Santa Croce Basilica; the city’s magnificent amphitheatre dating back to the 1st century and the Piazza Duomo or visit Alberobello a small town in Puglia known for its trulli houses.

Day 10 Catania, Sicily
Join a walking tour of Taormina featuring the Palazzo Corvaia and a visit to the Ancient Greek Theatre, the second largest of its kind in Sicily. There will be time to stroll along the Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, into some of the smaller lanes and alleyways, before a short sightseeing drive through Via Etnea, Villa Bellini, Piazza Stesicoro and Piazza Duomo. Or, choose to explore the ancient ruins of Syracuse, which will also allow you to have time to stroll the Corso Umberto. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 11-12 Sorrento (overnight)
On day 11, you have a choice of two tours: Pompeii or Herculaneum. Choose to be guided expertly through the spectacular site of Pompeii and visit the aristocratic mansions, temples, theatres, markets and large forum. At every turn, inscriptions bring the hustle and bustle of this ancient city to life. Or, a scenic drive takes you to Herculaneum which was engulfed by volcanic mud in the same eruption that claimed Pompeii. Fortunately for us, this mud sealed and protected entire buildings and today inlaid marble floors, paintings, mosaics and carbonised woods can all be seen. Both tours allow you to have free time in central Sorrento, where the ship will be docked overnight and day 12 is at leisure to explore further. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 13 Civitavecchia - Rome
This morning we disembark in Civitavecchia and make our way to our hotel in Rome, where we stay for two nights.

Day 14 Rome
Italy’s vibrant capital is one of the world’s most inspiring cities with historic art, endless ruins, and outstanding monuments; and is a perfect way to end your trip. Choose from a selection of excursions including a visit to the stunning archaeological site of Ostia Antica. Or, discover one of the most iconic representations of the ancient Roman world, the extraordinary Colosseum, which at its peak was capable of holding 65,000 viewers. An optional afternoon visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is also available.

Day 15 Rome - UK
We transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.

Day 1 Split

Dobro dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure begins in Split – right on the Adriatic coast, this is Croatia’s second-largest city, combining stunning architecture with timeless tradition. You’ll be collected from the airport and transferred to your hotel when you arrive, ready for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, you might like to visit the Mestrovic Gallery, which displays the remarkable work of one of Croatia’s greatest sculptors. After the meeting, get to know your fellow travellers and group leader over dinner at one of Split’s excellent restaurants and maybe try some brudet (a rustic seafood stew) and rozata (a creamy custard pudding). Tonight, you’ll stay in your Feature Stay – Santa Lucia Heritage Hotel in the Pjaca (the most beautiful square in Split).

Day 2 Split

This morning, you’ll head out on a sustainable Urban Adventure – Unveiling Split’s Living History. Led by a licensed heritage interpreter, stroll through the historic streets of Split, unveil the city's hidden gems and get a glimpse into the lives of those who call this 1700-year-old city their home. Wander through cobblestoned streets in the footsteps of past emperors and kings and learn about how Split has evolved over the centuries, now embracing eco-friendly initiatives like solar power and waste management. Explore the workshops of local artisans and witness the skill and passion of their creations. This afternoon is free to explore the seaside city at your own pace – maybe find the perfect seafood restaurant with sweeping views of the coast and tuck into some fresh cuisine over a glass of wine. Or, head back to your Feature Stay and chill on the la luce terrace or in the secret garden.

Day 3 Korcula

Take a morning ferry to Korcula – a paradisical island off the Dalmatian Coast. When you arrive in the afternoon, head out on a walking tour with a local guide dressed in traditional costume to the folklore treasury of Korcula Town. Here, traditional costumes and items are displayed exclusively for Intrepid tour groups (other tour groups don't have permission) and learn about the history of this island, whose population is almost entirely made up of ethnic Croats. After, maybe hit one of the hidden beaches like Vela Przina or Proizd, wander the orange-topped architecture in the Old City or soak up some of the local wine culture among the olive groves.

Day 4 Korcula

Get ready for an exciting, custom-made half-day tour around Korcula today. You'll explore the rich history of the island and visit places that are less impacted by tourism, supporting the local community. First, visit the Ethnographic Museum Barilo in Blato and explore the impressive collection, which includes agricultural tools, ceremonial clothes, traditional costumes, kitchen utensils and handicrafts that give a unique insight into the daily lives of the owners' ancestors. Wander the house and garden, then join your hosts for a tasting of local liqueurs, brandies, arancini, fried almonds and dried figs, prepared according to traditional recipes. After, head to Vela Luka to see the 20,000-year-old Vela Spila archaeological site and cave. Take a short walk over the cave for beautiful panoramic views of the archipelago and the bay below. Visit the archaeological museum before heading out to a local village for lunch and a wine tasting of local drops, at a small family winery among the hills. 

Day 5 Korcula

Today is a free day in Korcula. You might like to spend the day lazing at one of the hidden beaches and soak up the sun, taking a dfip in the glittering waters of the bay. Alternatively, maybe head to another local winery and support the local community with some delicious cuisine and a glass of wine (or three). Perhaps continue your explorations of the Old Town tonight, taking in the stocky Revelin Tower and impressive defensive walls before stopping for dinner in one of the island’s many restaurants.

Day 6 Dubrovnik

You’ll begin the journey to Dubrovnik today, stopping at Trsteno along the way – a small village just 20 km away from Dubrovnik. Here, you’ll tuck into a delicious brunch of local products made by a local family on their farm and presented by the famous Croatian chef Katija Paseta. Soak in the garden views and morning sun and then be treated to an olive oil tasting (a bottle of this locally produced kitchen necessity makes for the perfect souvenir!). Visit the arboretum next door – this is the oldest monument of garden architecture and the only arboretum in Croatia that dates back to the 15th century. This is also a Game of Thrones filming location but is far less crowded with fans than Dubrovnik’s Old Town. As you spot filming locations you recognise from the show (well away from the tourist crowds), take in the gorgeous views of the Elaphiti Islands and the Adriatic Sea below. Continue to the medieval walls of picturesque Dubrovnik, where you’ll have a free evening to find the best spot for dinner.

Day 7 Dubrovnik

The day is free to explore Dubrovnik at your leisure. This gorgeous city offers a wealth of experiences to cater to every taste, so maybe ask your leader for some suggestions. Maybe visit the historical Rector's Palace and marvel at the ornate Venetian-Gothic architecture or sip a beer on the terrace of one of Dubrovnik’s teetering cliff bars. Take a Game of Thrones walking tour to some more filming locations if you're a fan, or just people-watch over an espresso. Tonight, you'll be treated to a sunset sail on the glittering Adriatic waters. On a private boat, you'll sail to the Elafiti Islands, taking in the stunning coastal scenery during golden hour. Go for a couple of swims off the boat and then hit land and visit the picturesque fisherman's village of Lopud. Here, you'll toast to an incredible trip with the group over a farewell dinner of local cuisine. Sail back to Dubrovnik just in time to enjoy the view of Old Town from the sea during sunset and toast to an unforgettable memory with some nice local wine.

Day 8 Dubrovnik

Your trip ends after breakfast this morning. If you're looking to extend your stay and soak more of Dubrovnik's unique beauty, additional accommodation can be arranged for you – just speak to your booking agent.