7 Night Best Of Greece Cruise on Brilliance of the Seas from Athens, Piraeus, Greece Bodrum Town in Turkey
The 7 Night Best Of Greece Cruise from Athens, Piraeus, Greece visits Mykonos, Greece; Bodrum, Turkey; Santorini, Greece; Chania (Souda), Crete; Olympia (Katakolon), Greece; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Priced from: $1437.64 per person 1 sailing dates available
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7 Night Best Of Greece Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Brilliance of the Seas
Day 1 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Day 2 - Mykonos, Greece
Day 3 - Bodrum, Turkey
Day 4 - Santorini, Greece
Day 5 - Chania (Souda), Crete
Day 6 - Olympia (Katakolon), Greece
Day 7 - Cruising
Day 8 - Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
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Bodrum Town in Turkey
Bodrum Town in Turkey
This is your

7 Night Best Of Greece Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Onboard
Brilliance of the Seas
Day Port
1
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Departs at 5:00 PM
2
Mykonos, Greece
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
3
Bodrum, Turkey
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
4
Santorini, Greece
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
5
Chania (Souda), Crete
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6
Olympia (Katakolon), Greece
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
7
Cruising
Day at sea
8
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Arrives at 5:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Taxes & fees included.*

Your ship Brilliance of the Seas

Your ship
Brilliance of the Seas
View Itinerary
Brilliance of the Seas, Aerial View, Caribbean and European Destinations
Aerial View of Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Ship Visiting Amsterdam , Russia, and Germany
Get to know
Brilliance of the Seas
Calling all backroads ramblers and culture cruisers— your ship's come in. Whether you're catching a movie poolside or enjoying Tuscan dishes at Giovanni's Table, you're in for the ultimate adventure in between shores.

SEIZE THE SEA DAY

When you're not exploring onshore, conquer some bucket list firsts on deck. Catch a movie on the poolside screen, tee up for a game of mini golf, or scale the Rock Climbing Wall. Looking to unwind or break a sweat? Indulge in some "me time" at Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.

WOAH-WORTHY EATS

In between brag worthy destinations and social feed filling adventures onboard, you'll discover flavors that raise the bar. Like prime cuts of steak at Chops Grille℠ and Italian favorites at Giovanni's Table. Not to mention a Far East feast at Izumi and wines from around the world at Vintages.

SHOWTIME AT SEA

Watch and listen as outstanding singers and dancers showcase their skills in the variety revue, Center Stage. And sing along to modern stage hits in Now and Forever. This is entertainment that hits all the high notes.

Day 1: Athens, Greece

Day 1
Athens
Piraeus, Greece
View Itinerary
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Acropolis and Pathenon
View of the Parthenon atop the Acropolis in Athens, Greece
Things to do in
Athens
Departs at 5:00 PM
Athens offers a looking glass back in time into Greece's powerful ancient civilization. Art lovers, epicureans and history buffs will be delighted by the ancient ruins, museums and tavernas of this picturesque town. Just 10 minutes from the port, you'll find the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, filled with sculptures from the Bronze Age to the Romans. Walk to the Zea Harbour to discover how the Hellenic Maritime Museum will bring to life the grandeur of ancient Greece's naval capacities. Jump onboard an Athens cruise and relax at the small harbor of Mikrolimano, enjoying a meal of grilled octopus and chilled white wine at a small restaurant overlooking the sea.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Agia Triada Church
The Agia Triada church in Greece

Take Me to Church

The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Mikrolimano Harbour
Mikrolimano harbour in Greece

Mediterranean Romance

Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece. Decorative Vases
Various decorative Greek vases

Boats and the Bronze Age

The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Grilled Octopus
Grilled octopus on a white plate with a lemon on the side

Local Cuisine

Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Greek Souvenirs
An assortment of Greek souvenirs such as helmets and sculptures

Shopping

You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.

Day 2: Mykonos, Greece

Day 2
Mykonos
Greece
View Itinerary
Mykonos, Greece Seaside Tavern
Chairs with tables in typical Greek tavern in Mykonos, Greece
Things to do in
Mykonos
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos pulses with irrepressible energy. With its powder white houses, sparkling blue waters, and red-hot nightlife, The Island of the Winds is as colorful as the people who call the island home. You can walk narrow marble pathways laced with purple bougainvillea blooms, or go cycling on two wheels past off-the-path Ano Mera village. Explore Greece’s maritime history at Armenistis Lighthouse, and check out the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join in the raucous beach party on Super Paradise’s shimmering sands, or watch the sun burn out beyond an Aegean horizon from an open-air seaside taverna.
Mykonos, Greece Panagia Paraportiani
A beautiful old white chapel, the Panagia Paraportiani Church, in Mykonos, Greece

COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN

Mykonos’ main town of Hora is a mixture of classic Cycladic architecture and buzzing street culture. Admire the stark-white Panagia Paraportiani chapel and meet the town’s famous pelican Pétros. See the island’s trademark 16th-century windmills spinning high above the port. Then explore the strip of medieval houses and waterfront cafés in Little Venice.
Insider tip
Hop on one of the many seawater-taxi services around the island for transport to the beaches.
Mykonos, Greece Agios Stefanos Beach
Agios Stefanos Beach in Mykonos, Greece

INTO THE BLUE

The multihued waters surrounding Mykonos are perfect for surfing and scuba diving, while prevailing winds invite sailing and windsurfing. Get your fill of aquatic thrills, then hit the beach— Psaroú for family fun, Agrari for seaside serenity, Paradise for epic beach parties, or Elia for a blend of all three.
Insider tip
With frequent openings and closings, listen to locals and other travelers to find the island’s best restaurants.
Mykonos, Greece Isis Temple Delos
The Temple of Isis in archaeological site of Delos island, Mykonos, Greece

DIG UP THE PAST

Enjoy a short boat trip to the island of Delos, a sacred Greek archeological site and the mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Comb the crumbling ruins of its ancient theater, Doric temples, markets, and mosaic-laced houses— plus the Terrace of Lions statues and amphitheater.
Mykonos, Greece Greek Salad
Greek salad and olive oil on sunny seaside restaurant in Mykonos, Greece

LOCAL CUISINE

Some of the Mediterranean’s most delectable restaurants are found on Mykonos. Its trademark kopanisti (peppered cheese) is a must-try, while you can’t go wrong with classic kremmydopita (onion pie). Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea— or a glass of sweet Heliophilos wine in a beach bar. Then for dessert go for amygdalota (almond cookies) or melopita (honey cake).
Mykonos, Greece Souvenirs
Souvenirs hanging on a wall outside a shop, Mykonos, Greece

SHOPPING

Hora is a hub for top designer fashions, including the world-famous Soho-Soho clothing boutique. Family-owned and operated Greek Light sells handmade jewelry with Greece’s traditional maiandros symbol. And don’t leave Mykonos without buying a pair of house-designed sandals or hand-loomed weavings— scarves, rugs or tablecloths.

Day 3: Bodrum, Turkey

Day 3
Bodrum
Turkey
View Itinerary
Bodrum, Turkey - view of the end of the day
Bodrum, Turkey - view of the end of the day
Things to do in
Bodrum
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
When Turkish history and culture meets the blue waters of the Aegean, magical things are bound to happen. Some travelers will begin right at the sea, whether that means lounging under an umbrella on the shimmering sands of Bodrum Beach or sipping Raki cocktails at a waterfront bar along Milta Bodrum Marina. If you want to work up a sweat before you relax, one of the best things to do in Bodrum, Turkey, is explore its ancient history. The 15th-century Bodrum Castle pairs sweeping views of the sea with impressive architecture and historical exhibitions, while Halicarnassus is home to an ancient city and mausoleum from the Greek period nearly 2,500 years ago. Restaurant or retail therapy is the perfect way to cap off any day in Bodrum. Tear into tender, grilled octopus, or shop Turkish mosaic lamps and olive oil products amid the raucous stalls of Bodrum Market.
The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.
The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.

Relish Regal Views

Welcome to 15th-century Bodrum Castle, where the only thing more impressive than the medieval lookout towers are the views of the sparkling sea you enjoy from atop. Follow up your survey of the fortress by descending into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which provides an overview of shipwrecks just offshore and a collection of glass artifacts found in them.
Insider tip
Given Bodrum's popularity among UK tourists, you can almost always find someone here who speaks English.
Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.
Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.

Go Greek for the Afternoon

Head even further back in time when you set foot on the cobbled streets of Halicarnassus Citadel. Imagine yourself at a Greek performance in 350 B.C. when you climb up to the top of the site's intact amphitheater. Or, pay your respects at the sprawling mausoleum, where the local Anatolians who ruled present-day Bodrum on behalf of Greek imperial overlords are interred.
Insider tip
If you don't have any Turkish Lira on hand, most restaurateurs and shopkeepers are happy to accept Euros.
There are few more relaxing places in Turkey than Bodrum Beach.
There are few more relaxing places in Turkey than Bodrum Beach.

Soak up the Turkish Sun

Step into postcard-perfect scenery as your toes sink into the sun-warmed sands of Bodrum Beach. Take a dip in the still, crystalline waters lapping at the shore, or rent an umbrella or two, slather on the sunscreen and relax like never before. Order a shot of Raki, a distinctive local spirit that tastes like licorice, or order a milder Efes beer and say "cheers" to your beautiful day in Bodrum.
Insider tip
Bodrum is a popular jumping-off point for excursions into the Turkish islands and to Turkish coast destinations, such as Fethiye, Öludeniz and Antalya.
Bodrum is as much a culinary paradise as it is one for beaches.
Bodrum is as much a culinary paradise as it is one for beaches.

LOCAL CUISINE

When you work up an appetite, make your way to Milta Bodrum Marina, where you can enjoy views of majestic yachts reflecting in the water as you dine on fresh seafood and grilled meats. Choose locally caught izgara ahtapot (grilled octopus) served simply with a drizzle of olive oil and a wedge of lemon, or select a platter of grilled meats, kebabs and mezze appetizers for a more pan-Turkish culinary celebration.
Discount.Market in Bodrum
Discount.Market in Bodrum

SHOPPING

The main challenge of shopping at picturesque Bodrum Market? Getting out from behind the lens of your camera long enough to actually buy something! Traipse past colorful stalls, browse typical Turkish keepsakes, like colorful mosaic lamps and mysterious Nazar Boncuk evil eyes, or shop for products made with locally produced olives, including soaps and extra-virgin oils.

Day 4: Santorini, Greece

Day 4
Santorini
Greece
View Itinerary
Santorini, Greece Oia Houses
Scenic view of traditional cycladic houses on small street with flowers in foreground, in Santorini, Greece
Things to do in
Santorini
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, known best for its dramatic scenery, whitewashed villages and fiery volcanic activity. Here adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in the most bold and breathtaking ways. A cable car takes you to the capital of Fira, a bustling cliff-top town awash with old cathedrals, enthralling museum collections and cozy tavernas. Venture to the coast for a swim in the deep blue waters that lap red and black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of lava and history among excavated Akrotiri. Whether it’s by bicycle, ATV or on your own two feet, exploring this Cyclades isle never fails to impress.
Santorini, Greece Volcano
Nea Kameni volcanic island in Santorini, Greece

VOLCANIC WONDERS

Explore the volcanic history and geology of Santorini, site of an immense eruption 3,500 years ago. Trek the rocky landscape of Nea Kameni, an island in the center of the Santorini caldera, to see its smoking craters. Then soak in the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni.
Insider tip
Wear hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.
Santorini, Greece Byzantine Castle Ruins
Early morning in Byzantine Castle Ruins in Oia village, Santorini, Greece

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Considered the island’s most picturesque village, Oia radiates authentic Cyclades charm. Meander along tiny paths squeezed between stark-white villas. Snap selfies with the blue-domed St. Gerasimos Church, and view Byzantine castle ruins. Or dine on Greek seafood in a waterfront taverna— also the perfect perch for watching Oia’s fabulous sunsets.
Insider tip
Don’t be in a rush— dining in Greece is a laid-back, drawn-out affair.
Santorini, Greece Grapes Vineyard
Bunch of white grapes in the vineyard in the Wine Museum of Thira, Santorini, Greece

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey among the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are among some of Europe’s oldest. White Assyrtiko and red Mantilaria are both popular varietals— and be sure to sample Santorini’s beloved dessert wine, Vinsanto.
Santorini, Greece Raki
Alcohol drink Raki with anis on wooden board in Santorini, Greece

LOCAL CUISINE

Thanks to Santorini’s rich volcanic soil, the island has a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines and vegetables— fresh cherry tomatoes, fava beans and white eggplant included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialties. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavored raki.
Santorini, Greece Small white and blue houses
Small white and blue house souvenirs in Santorini, Greece

SHOPPING

Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewelry stores selling pieces inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs. You’ll find local artwork in the galleries of Oia and books about the Cyclades in Atlantis Books. A bottle of Santorini wine or Canava ouzo makes for a tasty souvenir.

Day 5: Chania, Crete

Day 5
Chania
Souda, Crete
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Chania, Crete Boats Docked At A Pier
Boats docked at a pier in Chania, Crete
Things to do in
Chania
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Chania is rich in remnants of the past. Start your adventure in Crete's second-largest city at Venetian Harbor, the entry to the old port. Soak in the vibe while wandering the narrow streets lined with shops and waterfront restaurants serving local fare like zucchini fritters and sardines stuffed with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes. Then head to Souda Bay, a strategic commercial and military harbor since ancient times, where you'll find the Aptera Fortress and the oldest Ottoman building in Crete. Cruise to Crete and stop into Archeological Museum of Chania, with artifacts from neolithic to Roman times. Or splash around in the translucent waters of Fallasarna, a beach surrounded by olive groves.
Chania, Crete Ottoman Fortress
The exterior walls of the ottoman fortress in Crete

Active Archaeology

One of ancient Crete's most important city-states, Aptera sits on a hill just south of the bay, with two seaports at the entrance to Souda Bay. Check out this active archaeological site to learn about new discoveries that shed light on the most powerful city of western Crete during Minoan times.
Insider tip
Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.
Chania, Crete Katholiko Monastery Ruins
The ruins of the Katholiko Monastery in Crete

Mountain Monasteries

Stroll the sandy beach at Stavros Bay, where Anthony Quinn danced in 1964's "Zorba the Greek." Explore the three monasteries — Agias Triada, Gouverneto and Katholika — set on this rocky peninsula. Discover Bear Cave on the footpath leading to Katholiko built into the cliff.
Insider tip
With a history dating back to around 2,200 BC, the Archaeological Museum housed in the Church of San Francesco stores artifacts dating from Neolithic to Roman times.
Chania, Crete Samaria Gorge
View of the Samaria Gorge in Chania, Crete

Hike to the Gorge

At 18 kilometers, Samaria is the longest of the many deep gorges that cut into Crete's mountains. The entrance is 42 kilometers south of Chania, and you can hike independently or with a guide. On the way, you might run into some kri kri, the wild goats found only on Crete. The gorge opens out to the black-sand beach at Ayia Roumeli.
Insider tip
Head to the Old Harbor, filled with wooden fishing boats and lined with cafes and restaurants, and to see remarkable changes of light throughout the day.
Chania, Crete Lobster With Vegetables
A plate with lobster served with vegetables in Chania, Crete

Local Cuisine

Restaurants with fresh seafood abound at the Chania waterfront. Local signatures of savory lamb, mini cheese pies and fresh vegetables also bring something special to the plate. And don't miss the dacos, a traditional Cretan bread served with tomato, mizithra cheese and rivers of virgin Cretan olive oil.
Chania, Crete Traditional Ceramic Dishes
Traditional ceramic dishes in Crete

Shopping

Chania's Old Town is packed with unique shops selling handmade ceramic kitchenware and decorations with classic geometric designs, one-of-a-kind jewelry made from pearl and coral — and of course, the local extra virgin olive oil, which is typically cold-pressed and retains distinctive flavors of green apple and fresh-cut grass. Take the time to explore the narrow, less-traveled streets to find both bargains and unique items during your Crete cruise.

Day 6: Olympia, Greece

Day 6
Olympia
Katakolon, Greece
View Itinerary
Katakolon, Greece, Building Ruins
The ruins of an ancient building in Greece
Things to do in
Olympia
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Experience ancient history and modern charm in Katakolon, a vibrant cruise port on the Greek coast. From here, you can catch a glimpse of Olympia, the birthplace of the original Olympic games and a shrine to the ancient Greek gods. Cruise to Greece and walk through the Olympia complex to get a historical tour of architectural styles, from the classical ruins to the red-tiled roofs of the traditional homes. Then, stroll through the Katakolon's lively center to discover unique local galleries and shops, and grab a seat at an oceanfront taverna with a glass of white wine and a dish of locally caught calamari.
Katakolon, Greece, Column Ruins
An ancient street in Olympia with columns on both sides

Relive History

The train to Olympia takes you through the splendid green hills of the Greek countryside, dotted with olive groves and vineyards. On the remains of the Olympic site, you'll find the Archaeological Museum at Olympia and the Museum of the Olympic Games.
Insider tip
While the main language is Greek, many locals speak some English. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to be prepared with some basic greetings.
Katakolon, Greece, Colorful Plates
Assorted colorful plates with painted designs hanging on a wall

Find Local Treasures

As you walk through the village, stop and chat with the locals who create ornate traditional goods. Choose from an array of handmade crafts made from olive wood, ceramic and leather at one of the many shops that line Katakolon's main street.
Insider tip
Local law mandates that shorts not be any shorter than six inches above the knee, so keep those thighs out of sight.
Katakolon, Greece, Fish Market
Various different kinds of fish for sale at a fish market

Eat Like an Olympian

Local tavernas offer a wide array of Greek traditional cuisine, served alongside views of the pristine blue water. Jump onboard a Greece cruise to enjoy a glass of the region's crisp white wine with some fresh seafood. If you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try the grilled octopus.
Insider tip
Be sure to plan your day around mesimeri, the Greek midday nap. Many shops close in the afternoon after lunch and reopen around 5:30 p.m.
Katakolon, Greece, Grilled Octopus Salad
A grilled octopus salad served on a blue plate

Local Cuisine

Katakolon's local cuisine is fresh and simple enough to be healthy but so delicious that you won't even notice. Locally caught seafood is prepared grilled with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Flavorful vegetables are served plain or in dishes such as spanakopita, a spinach pie, or moussaka, a delicious combination of vegetables, meat and bechamel sauce.
Katakolon, Greece, Clay Pots
An assortment of clay pots in Greece,

Shopping

Pottery, olive wood, lace and leather are just a few of the materials used here to create traditional crafts. Local artisans pride themselves in making each piece a one-of-a-kind item. From hand-crocheted center pieces to ceramic bowls that tell a story, each item reflects Katakolon's local traditions and history.

Day 7: Cruising

Day 7
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Brilliance of the Seas Solarium Entrance
Sunny Day at the Solarium
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Young Boy Climbing Rock
Young Boy Reaching the Top of the Rock Wall

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Men Enjoying a Game of Basketball
Men and Kids Enjoying a Game of Basketball on the Sports Court

Sports Court

Whether it's a game of one-on-one or an all-out tournament to fuel your competitive fire, our Sports Court is just the spot for basketball and volleyball action.
Whirlpool at Night
Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Whirlpools

It’s easy to let every thought melt away while relaxing in a whirlpool, especially when you’re soaking up ocean views, too.

Day 8: Rome, Italy

Day 8
Rome
Civitavecchia, Italy
View Itinerary
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Roman Forum
The Roman Forum in Rome, Italy
Things to do in
Rome
Arrives at 5:00 AM
With 28 centuries of celebrated history, Rome holds the edge when it comes to unrivaled adventures. The city that sparked the world’s largest empire is very much alive today with a jumble of ancient ruins, world-renowned art and vivacious street culture. Here you can live la dolce vita, recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino, or stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Whether it’s Vatican City’s spiritual allure, Trastevere’s backstreet charms, or the Colosseum’s embattled legacy— The Eternal City endures with endless adventures.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Pantheon
The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
Insider tip
Conservative attire (no tank tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Piazza Navona
A fountain in Piazza Navona in Italy

ADVENTURE SQUARED

Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Statues
Statues in the Vatican Museum

SACRED SPACES

Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Pizza and pasta
Pizza, pasta, and antipasta on a table in Rome

LOCAL CUISINE

Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Colosseum Vatican Models
Minitature models of the Colosseum and Vatican

SHOPPING

Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.

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