THE GRECO-ROMAN TRIP

What if your next vacation could let you walk in the footsteps of philosophers, emperors, and artists—while savouring sunsets, sculpture, and the best pasta of your life?

Travelling to Greece and Italy was a psychological, anthropological and sociological exposure – all in one. It was like taking a crash course on not just western civilization but into “human civilization itself” without any prefixes. There is so much history. Greek civilization was important to humanity because it laid much of the intellectual, political, artistic, and scientific groundwork for Western civilization—and its influence still echoes globally today. The Roman civilization was important to humanity because it provided the blueprint for much of the modern world's legal systems, infrastructure, governance, military organization, and even language. Rome didn’t just conquer territory—it created enduring frameworks for how societies function.

After all, haven’t we all seen how Greek and Latin words have shaped the language of law, medicine, and the sciences?

This blog is not a history lesson but a few lines to give credit to the Greco-Roman culture here:

THE GREEK CONTRIBUTION

The Greeks gave the world not just stories of gods and heroes, but the intellectual and artistic foundations of much of Western civilization. Their contributions continue to shape how we think, govern, create, and understand the world.

Here are the major contributions of Greek civilization, broken down by theme:

Philosophy and Rational Thought: Greece was the birthplace of Western philosophy. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle explored ethics, politics, metaphysics, and logic. They introduced the idea that knowledge should come from reason and critical inquiry, not just tradition or superstition.

Democracy and Political Thought: Athens pioneered direct democracy, where citizens (limited though they were) could participate in governance. Concepts like citizenship, rule of law, and public debate emerged here and continue to influence modern political systems.

Science, Mathematics, and Astronomy: Greek thinkers like Pythagoras, Euclid, and Archimedes laid the foundations of geometry, calculus, and physics. Hippocrates revolutionized medicine with his focus on observation and ethics—his name lives on in the Hippocratic Oath.

Aristarchus proposed a heliocentric model centuries before Copernicus.

The Arts: Drama, Literature, and Architecture: The Greeks invented theatre as we know it—both tragedy and comedy. Playwrights like Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes are still performed today. Epic poetry, particularly Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, shaped Western storytelling with themes of heroism, fate, and honor.

In architecture, they developed the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian styles—still used in modern civic and neoclassical buildings.

Olympic Games and Physical Culture: The ancient Olympic Games celebrated physical excellence and peaceful competition, laying the groundwork for today’s global Olympics.

Greeks emphasized a balance between mind and body—gymnasiums and athletic contests were central to education. As an Indian I am reminded of the “Bhagavad Gita” & the teachings of “Budhha” & “Mahavira” about the mind body connection. I was delighted to know how much ancient India contributed to the Greco-Roman world but much about it later.

Language and Rhetoric: Greek language deeply influenced scientific, philosophical, and medical terminology—words like “logic,” “physics,” “ethics,” and “democracy” come from Greek. They formalized rhetoric and debate, key skills in politics, law, and education.

Cultural and Intellectual Diffusion: Through Alexander the Great, Greek culture spread from Egypt to India in what’s known as the Hellenistic Age. This fusion of Greek and local traditions helped create centres of learning like Alexandria, where scholars preserved and expanded global knowledge.

THE ROMAN CONTRIBUTION

The Romans: developed the concept of codified law—a structured legal framework applied across its vast empire.

Ideas like “innocent until proven guilty”, legal contracts, and property rights come from Roman law and influenced most modern legal systems, especially civil law traditions.

Government and Republicanism: The Roman Republic introduced ideas of elected representatives, senates, and checks on power—all influential in the development of modern democracies.

Even the U.S. Constitution and parliaments worldwide borrow from Roman political structures.

Architecture and Engineering: Romans mastered concrete, arches, aqueducts, and road-building—many of which are still in use today. Their urban planning influenced city layouts, public spaces (forums), and infrastructure globally.

Cultural Integration and the Empire Model: Rome was a melting pot of cultures across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. It set a precedent for multicultural governance, citizenship policies, and integration. Latin became the lingua franca of the West, giving rise to Romance languages like Italian, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Language, Literature, and Rhetoric: Latin not only shaped modern languages but also academic, legal, and scientific terminology.

Roman authors like Cicero, Virgil, and Seneca defined standards in rhetoric, prose, and poetry still studied today.

Military Strategy and Discipline: Roman military organization, discipline, and engineering (e.g., forts, roads) influenced modern armies and logistics.

Spread of Christianity: The Roman Empire played a crucial role in the spread and institutionalization of Christianity, which became a dominant global religion.

"Is it not clear that the Greco-Roman civilizations once shaped and led much of the known world?" Apart from how they influenced in shaping the world, what is there in a contemporary world to explore in Greece and Italy?

WHY VISIT GREECE & ITALY?

Satisfied with my history lessons and in a self-congratulatory mood for that, I decided to visit Greece or Italy I thought.

Before travelling, as I was basically researching on travelling to Greece first and later to Italy but always this word “Greco-Roman” from high school history was sub-consciously there in my mind. Beyond the fleeting high school history, I researched and found the inter-connectedness between these two great civilizations and decided to go to both the places in one trip. The term “Greco-Roman” I found, broadly referred to the "classical world" of antiquity—an era seen as the gold standard of art, thought, civic life, and human potential in Western narratives.

Also, it was a practical decision to maximize and optimize on my international travel - which what I recommend to all travellers who wish to visit this part of the world or any other part of the world where it would be sensible to club tours.

Always, with time & resources permitting, take combo-tours to maximize on your international travel.

While Modern Greece is: beyond ancient temples and timeworn ruins, today’s Greece pulses with creative energy—rooftop bars with island views, bold street art in urban corners, indie music festivals, and design-forward boutiques from Athens to Thessaloniki. Whether in vibrant city neighbourhoods or artsy island enclaves, a new generation is redefining Greek style with a mix of tradition, rebellion, and effortless charm, Italy today is more than Renaissance paintings and Roman ruins—it’s where tradition flirts with trend. From Milan’s fashion-forward streets and Florence’s buzzing art collectives to Naples’ revived music scene and Palermo’s street food renaissance, modern Italy is alive with reinvention. Across cities, hill towns, and coastal escapes, a new generation of Italians blends old-world charm with bold design, sustainable living, and a flair for the beautifully unexpected.

Now coming to the visit itself…..

VISA & OTHER TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Since we were traveling from India, we required a Schengen visa to enter both countries. Even if you're from a country that may be eligible for visa-on-arrival or visa-free access, keep in mind that entry into Schengen countries is never guaranteed. I strongly recommend doing thorough research on visa requirements well in advance of your trip.

As for details like electrical systems, plug types, or travel adapters—I've chosen not to cover those in this blog. These are travel basics that vary by personal need and are best looked up just before your departure.

WHEN TO VISIT?

Since we were traveling from India—and thought we were well-acquainted with the heat—we chose to travel in July and August, partly to keep costs down. While we managed just fine most of the time, there were definitely moments (especially in Rome) when we would’ve paid good money just to borrow a fan!

After visiting multiple times and even conducting tours there, I can say with confidence that September to October is by far the most pleasant and balanced time to explore. The weather is moderate, the crowds are thinner, and the landscapes are perfect for hiking, photography, and soaking in the charm of the wine harvest season.

AIRPORT TRANSFER & WHERE TO STAY?

If you’re on an organized tour, chances are your airport transfer to central Athens is already arranged—either by the travel company (as we do during our own tours) or possibly by your hotel, as some offer complimentary airport pickups.

If not, the most convenient and economical option is to take the Athens Metro from the airport—especially if you’ve booked your stay near Syntagma Square or the Plaka district. It’s straightforward, well-connected, and drops you right into the heart of the city.

For budget travellers, Plaka, Monastiraki, and parts of Psiri are ideal areas to stay in Athens—central, well-connected, full of character, and surprisingly affordable if you plan ahead.

Our tailored itinerary features carefully selected 4-star hotels to maintain a consistent standard of comfort and service. That said, we’re happy to customize the accommodation to match your budget and preferences—ensuring your journey is both enjoyable and uniquely yours.

For places other than Athens consult our itinerary or write to us on contact@wanderwise.me

FOOD PREFERENCES IN GREECE

If you're open to exploring Greek vegetarian cuisine, you're in for a treat. Dishes like Dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), Spanakopita (spinach and feta pie), Gemista (stuffed vegetables), Fava (split pea purée), Gigantes Plaki (baked giant beans), and the classic Horiatiki Salata (Greek salad) are not just meat-free—they're full of flavour.

However, if you prefer to stick to Indian food, there are several restaurants in major cities and popular tourist areas that cater to your palate. In recent years, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisines have also gained popularity across Greece. If you are exploring Street food: Look for vegetarian gyros, falafel, or cheese pies at bakeries and casual eateries.

If you're in the mood for something light and familiar, you'll almost always find French fries and a Greek salad on the menu—simple, satisfying staples that rarely disappoint.

For those who follow a strict vegetarian or Jain diet, it's helpful to know the phrase "choris kreas" (χωρίς κρέας), meaning "without meat"—a useful phrase when dining anywhere in Greece.

Places like Athens and Thessaloniki have several Indian restaurants—ranging from North Indian tandoori grills to South Indian dosas.

In touristy areas like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, you’ll often find at least one Indian restaurant or a multi-cuisine spot with Indian dishes.

Popular choices include: Indian Chef (Athens), Namaste Indian Restaurant (Athens), Taj Mahal (Thessaloniki), Masala (Santorini) etc.

Some practical TIPS

Many menus have English translations, especially in tourist areas. If not, servers are usually happy to help (Everyone in touristy places speak decent English). And if you’re feeling adventurous, order the daily special—“to piato tis imeras”.

While gyros and souvlaki are everywhere (and delicious), Greek cuisine is incredibly diverse. Explore meze plates, seafood tavernas, and traditional stews like moussaka or youvetsi for a richer culinary experience.

Greek food is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients—ripe tomatoes, creamy feta, lemon, olive oil, herbs. Even a simple dish like grilled vegetables or a tomato-cucumber salad can be surprisingly memorable.

Bread is served with almost everything, even if you didn’t ask for it. It may not be free, though—it’s often added to the bill by default, so don’t be surprised by a small “cover charge.”

Fresh fish is a highlight, especially in coastal towns and islands. But pricing is often by weight (per kilo), so ask the price before ordering to avoid surprises.

Service charge is often included, but it’s polite to leave 5–10% extra at restaurants and cafés if you’re happy with the service.

If you feel that three full meals a day is too much—especially in the Greek heat—there are plenty of super-light and satisfying options. Most mini-markets and local shops offer fresh leafy salads, a wide selection of cheese and bread, and even affordable, good-quality homemade wine. It’s easy to put together a simple picnic or a light meal on the go without missing out on flavor or freshness.

MOVING AROUND & MODES OF TRANSPORT

As part of our commitment to offering a truly immersive travel experience, our tour packages are thoughtfully designed to include a variety of local transportation modes—ranging from metro train rides and cabs to ferries, tuk-tuks, and cycle rickshaws—wherever applicable. We aim to give travellers a holistic taste of how locals commute, adding an authentic layer to each journey. While we generally avoid internal flights to minimize the risk of delays or cancellations, we do incorporate them only when absolutely necessary. Speaking specifically about Greece, all forms of public and private transportation are generally safe and reliable, even for solo exploration during your free time. That said, travellers should remain aware that occasional disruptions can occur. For instance, during a past trip from Santorini Island, an afternoon ferry was unexpectedly cancelled, and our tickets were rescheduled to a later departure. Unfortunately, this led to a missed train connection and no compensation from the ferry operator, despite the inconvenience being beyond our control. These rare instances, while frustrating, are part of the unpredictable nature of travel and should be approached with flexibility. Overall, Greece remains a wonderful destination with dependable transport options that enhance the overall travel experience.

IMPORTANT PLACES TO VISIT

As part of our commitment to offering a truly immersive travel experience, our tour packages are thoughtfully designed to include a variety of local transportation modes—ranging from metro train rides and cabs to ferries, tuk-tuks, and cycle rickshaws—wherever applicable. We aim to give travellers a holistic taste of how locals commute, adding an authentic layer to each journey. While we generally avoid internal flights to minimize the risk of delays or cancellations, we do incorporate them only when absolutely necessary. Speaking specifically about Greece, all forms of public and private transportation are generally safe and reliable, even for solo exploration during your free time. That said, travellers should remain aware that occasional disruptions can occur. For instance, during a past trip from Santorini Island, an afternoon ferry was unexpectedly cancelled, and our tickets were rescheduled to a later departure. Unfortunately, this led to a missed train connection and no compensation from the ferry operator, despite the inconvenience being beyond our control. These rare instances, while frustrating, are part of the unpredictable nature of travel and should be approached with flexibility. Overall, Greece remains a wonderful destination with dependable transport options that enhance the overall travel experience.

A typical classic Greek itinerary of around 10 days is thoughtfully curated to include the essential highlights of Greece’s ancient and scenic wonders. Our packaged tour focuses on this well-rounded route, covering Athens, Delphi, Meteora, and Olympia on the mainland, followed by the iconic island duo of Mykonos and Santorini. This combination offers a balanced taste of Greece’s rich historical legacy and its sun-kissed island charm.

That said, Greece has much more to offer for those with a bit more time and flexibility in budget. You might consider adding Crete, with its Minoan heritage and diverse terrain; Rhodes, renowned for its medieval Old Town; or the lush and Venetian-influenced Corfu. For a more relaxed island experience, Naxos and Paros offer beautiful beaches and authentic Greek hospitality without the large tourist crowds.

Alternatively, for travellers looking to optimize their international journey while staying within the classical theme, it’s also possible to extend your itinerary to include select regions of Italy or Turkey, both of which share historical and cultural ties with ancient Greece.

For the sake of clarity and ease of planning, we offer only country-wise itineraries in our pre-packaged tours. However, if you're looking for a customized multi-country experience, we’d be more than happy to tailor a combined itinerary to suit your preferences. Whether it’s combining Greece with Italy, Turkey, or another nearby destination, we’ll design a seamless travel experience just for you.

Please feel free to explore our Greece itinerary at wanderwise.me or reach out directly at contact@wanderwise.me for any personalized requests.

HOW SAFE IS GREECE?

While Greece is generally a safe and welcoming destination, it’s important to remember that no country is entirely free from scams or petty crime, especially in popular tourist hubs. During our very first visit, we had an experience that now serves as a gentle reminder of why staying informed is crucial.

A man approached us casually, having overheard that we were from India, and struck up a friendly conversation, claiming to know someone in Delhi. What began as harmless small talk quickly led to an invitation to a nearby bar for a couple of beers. Once there, we realized it wasn’t a typical establishment—scantily dressed women joined us uninvited, and the atmosphere turned uncomfortable. When we decided to leave, the bar manager demanded an outrageous sum—$50 per beer, per person. Though we managed to negotiate and exit with minimal loss, the situation could have easily escalated. From the tone and gestures, we gathered that the bar manager was upset with the man who brought us, presumably for not delivering the kind of high-spending tourists she expected.

The takeaway here is not to cast a negative light on Greece—which remains a fantastic travel destination—but rather to stay alert and do a bit of research about common scams in any country you visit. Whether you’re travelling independently or as part of our group, having some firsthand awareness and local context can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe experience.

FINAL THOUGHTS: GREECE – A JOURNEY WORTH TAKING

So, those were some of our firsthand experiences in Greece—honest, unfiltered, and shared with you in the spirit of fellow travellers. Yes, like any destination, there were a few minor bumps along the way. But they were far outweighed by the beauty, history, warmth, and unforgettable memories Greece offers.

If I had to sum up Greece in just one word, it would be: EXCELLENT.

Whether you're wandering through the ancient ruins of Athens, catching the sunset in Santorini, or sharing laughter over a seaside taverna meal, Greece has a way of drawing you in and leaving you richer for the experience. And if you're a first-time traveller to Europe, there’s no better starting point than Greece and Italy—a perfect duo of myth, art, and Mediterranean charm.

Bon Voyage, and wherever your travels take you, may they be as enriching and joy-filled as ours.

For curated itineraries or custom travel planning, feel free to get in touch with us at

contact@wanderwise.me or visit wanderwise.me

A JOURNEY IN ITALY

As our enchanting journey through Greece came to a close, we boarded a Ryanair flight from Athens to Rome, setting the stage for the next chapter of our European adventure—an unforgettable exploration of Italy.

First things first—let's talk luggage. Unlike in India and several other countries where a few extra kilos might be overlooked—especially when you're clearly a tourist laden with souvenirs—European budget airlines play strictly by the book. There's little room for negotiation, and even slight excess baggage can result in hefty fees or repacking drama at the check-in counter.

Also worth noting—especially for first-time international flyers—is the cabin baggage size check. While cabin bag dimensions tend to vary from country to country, Ryanair (and many European budget carriers) enforces this rule quite rigidly. You’re often asked to place your cabin bag in a metal-frame sizer to prove it meets their specific size requirements. If it doesn’t fit, you’ll either pay a steep fee or be forced to check it in. So, when planning any international travel, don’t just focus on weight allowance—always double-check the exact size dimensions your airline permits. It's a small detail that can save you a lot of last-minute hassle at the airport.

So, as we landed in Rome, one of the first things that caught our attention was the unexpectedly slow-moving queue for the airport shuttle bus to the Metro station. Unlike some airports where waiting areas are covered or indoors, here you're made to stand in the open—exposed to the elements. If you're visiting in summer, a hat or umbrella is a must to shield yourself from the sun. And in winter, be sure to have a warm, waterproof layer handy. It’s a small, often-overlooked part of travel, but a little preparation here goes a long way in starting your Italian adventure comfortably.

I’m not sure if things have changed since our visit, or if it varies by terminal—but it's worth sharing this as a note of caution, just in case. Travel infrastructure can differ subtly even within the same airport, so being prepared for such scenarios—like standing in an open queue with no cover—can make your arrival experience a lot smoother.

AIRPORT TRANSFER & WHERE TO STAY?

If you’re on an organized tour, chances are your airport transfer to central Rome is already arranged—either by the travel company (as we do during our own tours) or possibly by your hotel, as some offer complimentary airport pickups.

If not, the most convenient and economical option is to take the Shuttle bus from the airport and then the Leonardo Express, operated by Trenitalia, which is a dedicated non-stop train service linking Fiumicino Airport directly to Rome’s main railway hub, Termini Station. The journey takes approximately 32 minutes, with departures every 30 minutes—ramping up to every 15 minutes during peak travel hours for added convenience.

The most central and convenient area to stay in Rome—suitable for all kinds of budgets—is around Roma Termini Station.

Here’s why:

Excellent connectivity: It’s Rome’s main transportation hub, with access to both Metro lines (A & B), buses, and trains, making it ideal for exploring the city or taking day trips.

Wide range of accommodations: From hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and even upscale stays, the area caters to every budget.

Shops, eateries & essentials: Supermarkets, cafes, pizzerias, luggage storage services, and SIM card shops are all within walking distance.

If you're looking for something slightly more charming but still central:

Monti (near the Colosseum) is trendier, with boutique options.

Trastevere is bohemian and lively, better for evening vibes but less Metro-connected.

Our tailored itinerary features carefully selected 4-star hotels to maintain a consistent standard of comfort and service. That said, we’re happy to customize the accommodation to match your budget and preferences—ensuring your journey is both enjoyable and uniquely yours.

For places other than Athens consult our itinerary or write to us on contact@wanderwise.me

FOOD PREFERENCES IN ITALY

While many Western travellers are already well-acquainted with Italian cuisine—one of the most beloved and widespread globally—it’s particularly important to share a few notes for vegetarian travellers from India. Despite the abundance of pasta and pizza, not everything is as vegetarian-friendly as it seems at first glance, and there are a few nuances worth keeping in mind to ensure a smooth and satisfying culinary experience.

Vegetarian travellers in Italy will find plenty to enjoy—though a little awareness goes a long way. Here’s a guide to some widely available and truly vegetarian-friendly options:

Pasta Dishes

• Pasta al Pomodoro – Simple tomato-based sauce; classic and safe.

• Pasta Aglio e Olio – Garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—perfect for minimalists.

• Pesto alla Genovese – Basil, olive oil, pine nuts, and cheese (though check if it includes Parmesan made with animal rennet).

• Pasta alla Norma – A Sicilian dish with tomato, eggplant, and ricotta salata (check cheese type if strict).

Pizza Options

• Pizza Margherita – Tomato, mozzarella, and basil—a true Italian staple.

• Pizza Vegetariana – Topped with grilled or fresh vegetables.

• Pizza Quattro Formaggi – Four-cheese pizza (again, inquire about rennet if you're strict).

Side Dishes & Antipasti

• Bruschetta al Pomodoro – Toasted bread with fresh tomato, garlic, olive oil, and basil.

• Caprese Salad – Sliced mozzarella and tomatoes with fresh basil.

• Grilled Vegetables (Verdure Grigliate) – Often served with olive oil and herbs.

Cheese Lovers' Paradise

Just note: Many Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino are traditionally made with animal rennet. If you're strict vegetarian, look for rennet-free or plant-based versions (you can ask: "Questo formaggio contiene caglio animale?" – Does this cheese contain animal rennet?).

Desserts

• Gelato – Fruit flavours are usually dairy-free, while cream-based ones may have egg or animal-based thickeners—always ask.

• Tiramisu (vegetarian version) – Available in some restaurants without eggs or gelatin.

• Panna Cotta – Be cautious—traditionally made with gelatin, but some vegetarian versions exist.

Supermarkets & Self-Catering

• Most supermarkets carry fresh produce, pre-cooked pasta, vegetarian panini, and plant-based milks.

• Look for Indian restaurants or “ethnic food” aisles for dals, ready-to-eat packs, or spices.

While in Rome, the popular Indian restaurants that you find are The Maharajah,Himalaya’s Kashmir,Little India,Jaipur,Saravanaa Bhavan Etc., across Italy you will find Raja Indian Lounge, Ristorante India, Karmacola, Taj Mahal Ristorante Indiano etc.

MOVING AROUND & MODES OF TRANSPORT

It is generally safe to walk around in Rome and throughout most of Italy, especially in well-populated and tourist-friendly areas. In fact, exploring city centres on foot is often the best way to soak in the architecture, piazzas, and local life.

For longer distances within cities, major hubs like Rome, Milan, and Naples are equipped with efficient Metro systems, offering a quick and budget-friendly way to get around.

When it comes to taxis, they are readily available and can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked through reliable apps like FreeNow and IT Taxi. Just a note of caution: Uber operates in Italy with premium services only, and is currently limited to Rome and Milan.

In urban areas, buses are another viable and economical mode of transport, though language can occasionally be a hurdle—especially if you don’t speak Italian and need help figuring out where to get off. Unlike trains and metros with digital signboards and predictable stops, buses may not always announce stops clearly, and drivers may not speak English fluently.

That said, local public bus services across Italy are well-connected and very affordable:

• In Rome, buses are operated by ATAC

• In Milan, it’s ATM (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi)

• In Florence, look for Autolinee Toscane

• Naples is covered by ANM (Azienda Napoletana Mobilità)

• Turin uses GTT (Gruppo Torinese Trasporti)

You can buy tickets at tobacco shops (tabacchi), newsstands, vending machines, or via the city’s official transport apps. Most tickets are valid for both buses and metros within a set time window (usually 75–90 minutes).

Tip: Use apps like Google Maps, Moovit, or Citymapper to track bus routes, stops, and where to get off in real time—super helpful if you're unsure of Italian street names.

Trenitalia (the national railway) and Italo (a private operator) offer a variety of train services to suit different travel needs, comfort levels, and budgets across Italy. Here’s a quick guide to the main types of trains they operate:

High-Speed Trains (Alta Velocità)

 Frecciarossa (Trenitalia)

• Top-tier high-speed service (up to 300 km/h)

• Connects major cities: Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Naples, Turin

• Offers multiple classes: Standard, Premium, Business, Executive

• Onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, refreshments

Italo Treno

• Competes with Frecciarossa on the same high-speed routes

• Sleek, comfortable, with classes like Smart, Comfort, Prima, and Club Executive

• Excellent service and competitive pricing

Intercity Trains (Trenitalia)

• Moderate-speed trains connecting smaller cities and towns

• More affordable than high-speed trains but slower

• Reserved seating; comfortable for long distances

• Good option if you're not in a rush

Regionale / Regional Fast (Trenitalia)

• Local trains serving short to medium distances

• Ideal for day trips and commuting (e.g., Pisa to Florence, Venice to Verona)

• No reserved seating; basic amenities

• Budget-friendly and frequent

Night Trains / Intercity Notte (Trenitalia)

• Overnight routes with sleeping berths or reclining seats

• Routes include Rome to Sicily, Milan to Lecce, and more

• Saves the cost of a hotel night and time on travel

Pro tip: Book high-speed and intercity tickets in advance for the best fares. Regional train prices are fixed, so no rush to book early.

IMPORTANT PLACES TO VISIT

As part of our commitment to offering a truly immersive travel experience, our tour packages are thoughtfully designed to include a variety of local transportation modes—ranging from metro train rides and cabs to ferries, tuk-tuks, and cycle rickshaws—wherever applicable. We aim to give travellers a holistic taste of how locals commute, adding an authentic layer to each journey. While we generally avoid internal flights to minimize the risk of delays or cancellations, we do incorporate them only when absolutely necessary. Speaking specifically about Greece, all forms of public and private transportation are generally safe and reliable, even for solo exploration during your free time. That said, travellers should remain aware that occasional disruptions can occur. For instance, during a past trip from Santorini Island, an afternoon ferry was unexpectedly cancelled, and our tickets were rescheduled to a later departure. Unfortunately, this led to a missed train connection and no compensation from the ferry operator, despite the inconvenience being beyond our control. These rare instances, while frustrating, are part of the unpredictable nature of travel and should be approached with flexibility. Overall, Greece remains a wonderful destination with dependable transport options that enhance the overall travel experience.

A classic 10-day Italian itinerary is elegantly crafted to highlight the essential cities that define Italy’s timeless charm, rich history, and artistic legacy. Our packaged tour thoughtfully covers Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan, offering a balanced blend of ancient landmarks, Renaissance masterpieces, romantic canals, and modern elegance.

Begin your journey in Rome, the Eternal City, where ancient ruins like the Colosseum and Roman Forum meet Baroque fountains and Vatican treasures. Then, head north to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, known for its awe-inspiring cathedrals, Uffizi masterpieces, and Tuscan flair. A visit to Venice follows, where gondolas glide through dreamy canals and every alley whispers history. Conclude in Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital, where contemporary energy meets gothic grandeur at the iconic Duomo.

That said, Italy offers far more for those with extra time and a bit of flexibility in their plans. You might consider adding the Amalfi Coast for dramatic coastal views and quaint cliffside villages, Cinque Terre for colourful seaside charm, or Lake Como for alpine beauty and tranquillity. History lovers may want to include Pompeii, while foodies could detour to Bologna or Modena—epicentres of Italy’s culinary heritage.

For those with a few extra days to spare, this classic Italian journey can be seamlessly extended to include the captivating landscapes and historic gems of Southern Italy over an additional 7-day extension.

This southern leg of the trip takes you from the grandeur of the north into a region rich in archaeology, dramatic coastlines, and heartfelt hospitality. Highlights include:

• Naples – A vibrant city full of life, history, and the original Neapolitan pizza.

• Pompeii & Herculaneum – Unmissable archaeological sites that bring ancient Roman life into vivid focus.

• Amalfi Coast – A breathtaking stretch of coastal villages like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi, ideal for slow travel and stunning views.

• Capri – A stylish island escape with rugged cliffs, sea caves, and upscale charm.

• Matera – A UNESCO-listed city known for its ancient cave dwellings (sassi), offering one of the most unique landscapes in all of Europe.

This 7-day southern extension adds depth, flavour, and coastal beauty to your Italian experience—ideal for those seeking a more immersive, off-the-beaten-path journey.

Alternatively, for travellers looking to optimize their international journey while staying within the classical theme, it’s also possible to extend your itinerary to include select regions of Greece or Turkey, both of which share historical and cultural ties with ancient Italy.

For the sake of clarity and ease of planning, we offer only country-wise itineraries in our pre-packaged tours. However, if you're looking for a customized multi-country experience, we’d be more than happy to tailor a combined itinerary to suit your preferences. Whether it’s combining Greece with Italy, Turkey, or another nearby destination, we’ll design a seamless travel experience just for you.

Please feel free to explore our Italian itinerary at wanderwise.me or reach out directly at contact@wanderwise.me for any personalized requests.

HOW SAFE IS ITALY?

While Italy is generally a safe and welcoming destination, it’s important to remember that no country is entirely free from scams or petty crime, especially in popular tourist hubs and Italy is no exception. During our very first visit, we had an experience that now serves as a gentle reminder of why staying informed is crucial.

We witnessed firsthand a bag-snatching incident right at Roma Termini, a stark reminder that while the station is bustling and well-policed, it's also a hotspot for opportunistic petty crime. Tourists, especially those newly arrived and managing luggage, are easy targets.

One of the most common tactics used is the distraction technique—a coordinated effort by a group where one or two individuals engage or crowd you (asking for directions, pretending to bump into you), while another stealthily lifts your belongings.

Another clever trick we observed: someone approaches holding a wallet or piece of jewellery, pretending to have just picked it up, and asks if it’s yours. While you’re momentarily confused or reaching for your own pocket to check, their accomplice quietly makes off with your bag or valuables.

One of the more deceptive scams we encountered firsthand in Rome involved plainclothes men posing as police officers. They approached us with serious demeanours, flashed a badge, and asked to inspect our passports and the cash we were carrying. At the time, it all seemed legitimate—until we later discovered that a few hundred dollars were missing.

These impostors are highly skilled at sleight of hand. They handle your belongings with such confidence and speed that you barely notice anything amiss. In many cases, they don’t take all your money, just enough to go unnoticed until hours later—making it even harder to identify or report the theft.

Never hand over your passport or cash to anyone claiming to be police unless they are in full uniform, clearly identified, and you're in a public or official setting. Real police officers in Italy do not routinely ask to see your money.

I'm not going to go into exhaustive detail about every possible scam—it’s not a crime documentary, after all! But based on our experiences, I strongly urge fellow travellers to do a little research on potential local scams before setting off on any international journey.

Knowing what to expect helps you stay alert without being anxious. Whether it’s petty theft, impersonation tricks, or distraction techniques, a bit of awareness can save you a lot of stress and money. And remember—most locals are kind and helpful, but the few who aren’t often rely on your unawareness.

That said, Italy is generally safe to travel as a tourist. It's one of the most visited countries in the world, welcoming millions of travellers each year who come to enjoy its art, history, cuisine, and landscapes. Most visits are trouble-free.

FINAL THOUGHTS: ITALY – A JOURNEY WORTH TAKING

So, those were some of our firsthand experiences in Italy—honest, unfiltered, and shared with you in the spirit of fellow travellers. Yes, like any destination, there were a few minor bumps along the way. But they were far outweighed by the beauty, history, warmth, and unforgettable memories Italy offers.

If I had to sum up Italy in a couple of  words: EXCELLENT. DOUBLE THUMGS UP

If you're a first-time traveller to Europe, there’s no better starting point than Italy—and Possibly Greece as a combo - a perfect duo of myth, art, and Mediterranean charm.

Bon Voyage, and wherever your travels take you, may they be as enriching and joy-filled as ours.

For curated itineraries or custom travel planning, feel free to get in touch with us at

contact@wanderwise.me or visit wanderwise.me