Amalfi Coast: Capri – Amalfi – Rome from Thessaloniki with Aegean

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we begin our day with a magical cruise on the Tyrrhenian Sea. From Marina Grande, we set sail for Positano, the jewel of the Amalfi Coast. This village, also known as the “terrace village,” stretches amphitheatrically across the cliffs, with its colorful houses gazing out over the endless blue sea. We’ll have free time to explore its picturesque cobblestone streets, admire its unique atmosphere, and lose ourselves in its charm. Next, we’ll head to Amalfi, one of the most idyllic destinations on the Amalfi Coast and one of Europe’s most stunning coastlines. During our walking tour, we’ll admire the town’s elegant mansions and visit the imposing Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a masterpiece that combines Byzantine, Arab, and Gothic architectural elements. Of course, we won’t miss the chance to taste the famous Limoncello, the region’s signature liqueur.

In the afternoon, we return to Salerno, where we will tour the historic city center. Although it suffered severe damage from the 1980 earthquake, it retains its medieval character, with imposing monuments and picturesque squares. We will visit the Cathedral, built by the Norman prince Robert Guiscard, as well as the Church of the Annunziata, with its impressive Baroque bell tower. Additionally, we will explore Arechi Castle, the Church of S. Pietro a Corte, and Piazza Flavio Gioia—also known as the Rotonda due to its circular shape. Here stands the imposing Porta Nova, a monumental gate reconstructed in the 18th century. With our senses filled with the enchanting sights of the Amalfi Coast and the charm of Salerno, we return to our hotel in the late afternoon. Today has given us unforgettable experiences, rich in history, culture, and unique landscapes that will remain etched in our memories.

A sunny summer day dawns, and we find ourselves in a wonderful, historic city. Today you have the opportunity to spend your time in Naples however you wish, exploring the city’s hidden corners at your own pace. Alternatively, you can join our optional excursion, which departs early in the morning by speedboat, offering us the chance to explore the fairytale island of Capri, also known as “The Garden of Eden.” According to Homer, Capri was the mythical island where the Sirens lived, who enchanted Odysseus with their song. Capri captivates its visitors with its picturesque, colorful houses, the luxurious yachts slicing through the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and its unique architecture. Roman villas, ancient statues, baths, churches, and staircases leading down to the sea create a scene from another era, enveloped in lush, colorful Mediterranean vegetation. Late in the afternoon, we return to our hotel, filled with images and unforgettable experiences.

We enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel and head off to Rome. Without wasting any time, we head to the historic center of Rome, where our walking tour begins at Piazza di Spagna, also known as the Spanish Steps. It is one of the city’s most famous squares, a favorite meeting spot and an area home to stores of the world’s most renowned fashion houses. We continue to the Trevi Fountain, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, featured in countless photographs and movie scenes. Don’t forget to toss a coin into its waters—they say this ensures your return to the Eternal City. Next is the Palazzo Montecitorio, seat of the Italian Parliament, where the original Column of Hadrian is located. The next stop is the imposing Pantheon, a 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to all the gods, so well-preserved that it is still considered one of the most significant architectural achievements of the Western world. We then head to Piazza Venezia, the geographical and historical center of Rome (ground zero), with the impressive Monument to the Unification of Italy. Crossing the Roman Forums, we arrive at the largest Roman amphitheater, the famous Colosseum, which, if you wish, you can visit inside (at your own expense). After the tour concludes, transfer to the hotel and check-in.

In the evening, as the light fades, we invite you to an optional night tour (Roma by Night) to discover the authentic and vibrant side of the Italian capital. Starting from Piazza Navona, filled with restaurants and street performers, we’ll admire the square’s three fountains, the most impressive being Bernini’s famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, where each statue symbolizes a river from a different continent. We continue toward the Campo de’ Fiori area, which will charm you with its liveliness, its vibrant colors, and its picturesque narrow streets. Then, crossing the Tiber River, we arrive at the church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, in the heart of the neighborhood of the same name—one of Rome’s most picturesque and cosmopolitan districts. Here, we recommend enjoying an authentic Italian dinner or a drink, either at the neighborhood’s traditional hangouts or near the riverbanks. Later, return to the hotel.

Our five-day trip is slowly coming to an end. After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll visit the Capitoline and the hill of the same name. Although smaller in size than the other six hills of Rome, the Capitoline Hill is considered the heart of the Eternal City. According to mythology, it was here that Romulus decided to found Rome, in contrast to his brother Remus, who had chosen the Aventine Hill. After their fateful clash, Romulus began rebuilding the city from the Capitoline Hill. In ancient times, this hill was home to Rome’s most important temples, and later it evolved into the administrative and religious center of the Christian city. To this day, the Capitoline Hill retains its role as the political and cultural heart of Rome, home to City Hall, the famous Capitoline Museums, important churches, and unique monuments. From here, we can also enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Roman Forum. During the tour, we will see, among other things, the Capitoline Steps, Piazza d’Aracoeli, the Capitoline Temples, and the Capitoline Museums. The statues of the Dioscuri at the entrance to the square are particularly impressive, as is the iconic statue of the equestrian Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Afterward, we’ll have free time for a final stroll through Rome and along the main street, Via del Corso—the perfect opportunity to enjoy the city at your own pace. You can do some last-minute shopping, enjoy a coffee or a light meal in one of the picturesque squares, or simply wander through the city’s narrow streets, savouring the atmosphere that makes it so unique. Later, we’ll board the bus for our transfer to the airport and our return flight with Aegean. Having filled our hearts with unforgettable experiences, unique sights, and of course new friends, we look forward to seeing you on our next wonderful trip!