If you wish to experience a trip that combines the most important cultural and historical highlights of Italy and Greece for families, here is a customizable family-friendly 12-day itinerary that includes Rome, Naples, Athens and the Peloponnese!
Highlights of Italy & Greece for Families
Embark on a year-round cultural adventure that uncovers the rich history and timeless beauty of Italy and Greece, perfect for families seeking an immersive journey through the ancient world. Start in Rome, where family-friendly treasure hunts bring the wonders of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican to life, and enjoy a scenic sunset tour of the city’s iconic spots. In Naples, explore the vibrant streets and dive into history with a private tour of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius.
Continue to Athens, where a private mythology tour of the Acropolis and ancient Agora will captivate young and old alike, followed by a treasure hunt through Athens’ historic hills. The journey extends to the Peloponnese, where myth and legend unfold at ancient Corinth, Nemea, and Epidaurus, complemented by hands-on workshops like Greek cookie-making and art inspired by mythology. This itinerary offers a rich blend of cultural highlights in two of the world’s most iconic countries, providing an unforgettable experience for families at any time of the year.
Need some help in trip planning by the best local travel advisors for Greece and Italy family trips? MAMAKITA family travel specialists can customize this itinerary according to your preferences, age of family members, travel pace and budget. Enjoy your family trips in Greece and Italy without worrying about family friendly accommodation or family-friendly tours and activities by making your request here.
Brief Family Itinerary for the Highlights of Italy & Greece
- Day 1: Free time in Rome historical center
- Day 2: Family Treasure Hunt in the Colosseum & the Roman Forum, afternoon in Villa Borghese
- Day 3: Vatican Treasure hunt and mosaic workshop, panoramic tour in the best sunset photo spots of Rome by golf cart
- Day 4: Train to Naples & private cultural tour
- Day 5: Private day trip to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius
- Day 6: Fly to Athens, Greece & free time in Plaka district
- Day 7: Private Mythology tour of the Acropolis and the ancient Agora, treasure hunt in ancient Athens hills for the best sunset view spots
- Day 8: Private Delphi day trip with a kid-friendly guide
- Day 9: Travel to Peloponnese with en-route visit to ancient Corinth & free time in Nafplio
- Day 10: The Myths of Hercules: Lake Stymphalia & Nemea, with Greek cookies workshop and farm lunch
- Day 11: Epidaurus & Mycenae private tour with mythology art workshop
- Day 12: Departure
Detailed Family Trip Itinerary for the Highlights of Italy and Greece
Day 1: Free time in Rome historical center
Rome is a city kids love to explore! With this family-friendly itinerary, you can visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican, but also take time to wander through Rome’s lively city center. Stroll through bustling piazzas like Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori, where kids can enjoy street performers and sample local treats like gelato. Explore the narrow, cobblestone streets, visit the famous Trevi Fountain to toss in a coin for good luck, and marvel at the stunning Pantheon. The Spanish Steps offer a fun climb with amazing views of the city, and you can relax at Villa Borghese Park, where families can rent bikes or rowboats. Rome’s city center is a treasured trove of history, culture, and adventure that will keep the whole family entertained.
Day 2: Family Treasure Hunt in the Colosseum & the Roman Forum, afternoon in Villa Borghese
Discover Ancient Rome on a fun, family-friendly private walking tour that explores the Colosseum and Roman Forum. With a treasure map in hand, kids can search for hidden secrets among the ruins while learning about the city’s history. Afterward, spend time in one of Rome’s beautiful parks, like Villa Borghese or Villa Pamphili, where kids can play and you can relax with a picnic or enjoy an Aperitivo while admiring the villas’ architecture.
Day 3: Vatican Treasure hunt and mosaic workshop, panoramic tour in the best sunset photo spots of Rome by golf cart
Embark on a fun, family-friendly private tour of The Vatican, designed to spark your kids’ curiosity. With a treasure map in hand, your children will explore hidden gems and fascinating collections, while your guide tailors the experience to their interests. You’ll discover unique treasures, marvel at beautiful artwork, and explore iconic sites like the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. After the tour, enjoy a hands-on mosaic-making workshop, offering an interactive way to learn about this ancient art form. In the afternoon, enjoy a panoramic tour of the Roman hills by golf cart to get the best sunset pics!
Day 4: Train to Naples & private cultural tour
Take a train to Naples, a city where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. Explore the lively streets of Spaccanapoli, admiring its mix of architectural styles and rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the famous Cappella San Severo, home to the Veiled Christ, and the beautiful squares of Piazza del Gesù and San Domenico Maggiore. Enjoy a break with a traditional Neapolitan coffee, then visit the historic Piazza St. Gaetano before concluding your tour at the impressive Saint Gennaro Cathedral, known for the Miracle of St. Gennaro.
Day 5: Private day trip to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius
Discover Pompeii with your family in a fun and interactive way through a kid-friendly exploration of the ancient ruins. This unique experience allows your children to take the lead as guides, navigating the archaeological site with a special map through games, riddles, and mimes. As you visit highlights like the Forum, theater, bathhouse, and temples, kids will collect character stickers to take home. After the tour, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a winery near Mt. Vesuvius, offering stunning views of the Bay of Naples.
Day 6: Fly to Athens, Greece & free time in Plaka district
Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, is a city where ancient history and vibrant modern culture seamlessly blend. With its iconic monuments, bustling streets, and rich heritage, the city invites exploration at every turn. One of the best ways to experience its charm is by visiting Plaka, the oldest and most enchanting neighborhood in Athens. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, Plaka offers a relaxed, self-guided afternoon stroll where you can trace the city’s storied past. Discover the Roman Agora, the Old University, the Tower and Bath House of the Winds, the Benizelos Mansion, the Monument of Lysicrates, and the beautiful Byzantine churches that dot this picturesque district.
Day 7: Private Mythology tour of the Acropolis and the ancient Agora, treasure hunt in ancient Athens hills for the best sunset view spots
Discover Athens’ ancient history with a family-friendly private tour, exploring the iconic Acropolis and the Ancient Agora. Perfect for both kids and adults, you’ll uncover the fascinating myths of Greek gods like Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon, while also learning the real history behind the famous hilltop sites. Afterward, walk down to the Ancient Agora, where democracy was born, and hear tales of philosophers like Socrates and Plato. In the afternoon, engage in a treasure hunt through Athens’ historic hills of Pnyka, Thisseio, and Filopappou, solving puzzles, hunting for clues, and discovering hidden secrets with the help of a local pedagogue-guide. And of course, take the best sunset pics of the Parthenon!
Day 8: Private Delphi day trip with a kid-friendly guide
Take a private day trip to Delphi, where you’ll explore the “center of the ancient world” with a kid-friendly guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Theater, and visit the Delphi Museum, home to treasures like the Charioteer of Delphi. Kids can enjoy a hands-on painting experience inspired by Delphi’s scenery. End the day with a traditional lunch at an olive oil producer, tasting local products while taking in views of the olive grove and the Gulf of Corinth, before heading back to Athens.
Day 9: Travel to Peloponnese with en-route visit to ancient Corinth & free time in Nafplio
Travel to the Peloponnese, a captivating region, steeped in history and renowned for its stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and charming towns. On your journey to this beautiful land, you’ll stop at the Corinth Canal and the Ancient Diolkos trackway, which played a crucial role in making Ancient Corinth one of Greece’s largest and most significant cities. Upon arrival to Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, enjoy a relaxing afternoon stroll. Highlights of Nafplio include the Bourtzi Fort on the islet of Agioi Theodoroi, the imposing Palamidi Fortress perched on a 216-meter-high hill, and the ancient site of Acronafplia.
Day 10: The Myths of Hercules: Lake Stymphalia & Nemea, with Greek cookies workshop and farm lunch
Today you will discover Lake Stymphalia and Nemea, where Hercules committed 2 of his Labors! You will get the chance to discover the natural beauty and rich mythology of Lake Stymphalia, by visiting the Environment Museum. You will then continue to Nemea, one of the most important wine-making regions of Greece and visit the Temple of Zeus and the ancient Stadium, the venue for the Nemean Games. Next, you will visit a local organic vinegar producer to discover the organic farming and vinegar-making process, followed by a tasting of their products. You and your children will also get to make grape-must cookies, adding a culinary touch to your experience. Finally, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch in a vineyard garden, paired with local wine, while listening to captivating stories from Greek mythology, including tales of Dionysus and Hercules.
Day 11: Epidaurus & Mycenae private tour with mythology art workshop
Experience a private tour of two of Greece’s most significant ancient sites: Mycenae and Epidaurus. At Mycenae, you’ll explore the impressive ruins, including the Treasury of Atreus, the Lion Gate, and the remains of the palace, all while enjoying stunning views from the Acropolis. Afterward, head to Epidaurus, known as the birthplace of medical healing, where you’ll discover important monuments like the Temple of Asklepios and the renowned Ancient Theater. Your day concludes with an art workshop for kids at the Fougaro Artcenter in Nafplio, a creative venue with a beautiful garden and a restaurant to enjoy your meal. End your tour with a relaxing stroll to Nafplio’s Lighthouse, one of the most scenic spots to say “goodbye” to the Mediterranean!
Day 12: Departure
Need some help in trip planning by the best local travel advisors for Greece and Italy family trips? MAMAKITA family travel specialists can customize this itinerary according to your preferences, age of family members, travel pace and budget. Enjoy your family trips in Greece and Italy without worrying about family friendly accommodation or family-friendly tours and activities by making your request here.