18 Days of Historical Sites and Natural Beauty Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola (Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola). This Baroque church is known for its stunning frescoes and trompe-l'œil ceiling that creates an illusion of a dome.

In the afternoon, explore Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most famous squares. Admire the beautiful fountains and baroque architecture. Enjoy lunch at one of the charming cafes around the square.

End your day with a visit to Piazza del Popolo, another iconic Roman square. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and offers great views from Pincio Hill. Have dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Start your day with a visit to Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere (Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere). This beautiful basilica is located in one of Rome's most charming neighborhoods.

Head over to Rome Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma) for an afternoon stroll through this historic district. Learn about its rich history and enjoy some traditional Jewish-Roman cuisine for lunch.

In the evening, explore Trastevere, known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent dining options. Choose from one of many local restaurants for dinner.

Take a morning trip to Ancient Ostia (Ostia Antica), an archaeological site that was once Rome's seaport. Wander through well-preserved ruins including baths, temples, and houses.

Return to central Rome and visit Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo), an ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium. Nearby are several cafes where you can have lunch while enjoying views of Palatine Hill.

Conclude your day with a visit to Theater of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello). This ancient open-air theatre is often compared to the Colosseum but on a smaller scale. Enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

Start your Venetian adventure with a visit to St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco). This iconic square is home to several of Venice's most famous landmarks, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile. Enjoy a coffee at one of the historic cafes around the square.

In the afternoon, explore Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale). This Gothic masterpiece was the residence of the Doge of Venice and now serves as a museum. For lunch, head to Osteria alle Testiere, known for its delicious seafood dishes.

End your day with a romantic gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Afterward, dine at Ristorante Quadri, which offers stunning views of St. Mark's Square.

Venice Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia) is your first stop today. This gallery houses an impressive collection of Venetian art from the 14th to 18th centuries.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Collezione Peggy Guggenheim) is next on your list. This modern art museum is located in Peggy Guggenheim's former home on the Grand Canal. For lunch, enjoy some local cuisine at Antiche Carampane.

La Fenice Opera House (Teatro La Fenice) offers an unforgettable evening experience. Catch a performance or simply take a guided tour of this historic opera house. Dine at Harry's Bar, famous for its Bellini cocktails.

Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrucke) is your first stop in Lucerne. This iconic wooden bridge dates back to the 14th century and offers beautiful views of Lake Lucerne.

Lion Monument (Löwendenkmal) is next on your list. This poignant monument commemorates Swiss Guards who were killed during the French Revolution. For lunch, try some Swiss specialties at a nearby restaurant.

End your day with a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Lucerne (Lucerne Walking and Boat Tour The Best Swiss Experience). Enjoy dinner at one of Lucerne’s lakeside restaurants.

Begin your day with a visit to Lucerne Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche Luzern). This beautiful baroque church is located along the Reuss River.

Head over to Swiss Museum of Transport (Verkehrshaus der Schweiz), which showcases Switzerland’s transportation history through interactive exhibits and displays. Have lunch at one of their on-site cafes.

Conclude your day by exploring Lucerne’s Old Town (Lucerne Old Town). Wander through its charming streets filled with medieval architecture before dining at one of its traditional Swiss restaurants.

Start your day with a visit to Oia, one of the most picturesque villages in Santorini. Known for its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, Oia offers stunning views of the caldera. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Head to Kamari Beach for an afternoon of relaxation by the sea. This black sand beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For lunch, try some fresh seafood at El Zócalo, which is known for its delicious dishes and beachfront location.

End your day with a visit to Fira, the capital of Santorini. Explore its charming streets filled with shops and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at La Pampa Argentina, which offers stunning views of the sunset over the caldera.

Begin your day in Santorini with a visit to Akrotiri Archaeological Site, an ancient Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash. Explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about life in this ancient civilization.

Head to Perissa Beach for an afternoon of relaxation by the sea. This black sand beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For lunch, try some fresh seafood at Rustico Bistro, which is known for its delicious dishes and beachfront location.

End your day with a visit to Pyrgos Village, one of Santorini’s most charming villages offering panoramic views from its hilltop location followed by dinner at renowned restaurant serving authentic Greek cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to the village of Megalochori. This traditional village is known for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and beautiful churches. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Head to Red Beach, one of Santorini's most unique beaches with its striking red cliffs and clear blue waters. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the sea or snorkeling. For lunch, enjoy some fresh seafood at Koi Sushi, which offers delicious dishes with a view.

End your day with a visit to the village of Imerovigli. Known as the 'balcony to the Aegean,' this village offers stunning views of the caldera and sunset. Dine at Al Pomodoro, which serves excellent Italian cuisine in a romantic setting.

Acropolis is your first stop today. This ancient citadel contains some of Greece's most famous landmarks, including the Parthenon and Erechtheion. Take your time exploring these historic ruins.

Acropolis Museum (Museo Akropoleos) is next on your list. This modern museum houses artifacts found on the Acropolis site. For lunch, head to GB Roof Garden, which offers delicious Greek cuisine with panoramic views of Athens.

Plaka is perfect for an evening stroll. This historic neighborhood is filled with narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and tavernas. Dine at Dionysos Zonar's, known for its excellent food and views of the Acropolis.

Temple of Olympian Zeus (Naós tou Olympíou Diós) is your first destination today. This massive temple dedicated to Zeus was once one of the largest in Greece.

National Archaeological Museum (Ethniko Arxaiologiko Mouseio) is next on your itinerary. This museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Greek dishes at Kuzina.

Syntagma Square (Plateia Syntagmatos) is a great place to end your day. Watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before heading to Orizontes for dinner, which offers stunning views from Mount Lycabettus.

Agora of Athens is your first stop today. This ancient marketplace was once the heart of public life in Athens and is home to several important ruins, including the Temple of Hephaestus.

National Gardens of Athens (Ethnikos Kipos) is next on your list. These beautiful gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and are perfect for a leisurely stroll. For lunch, head to Spondi, known for its exquisite Greek cuisine.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Odeio Irodou Attikou) offers an unforgettable evening experience. This ancient theater hosts performances during the summer months, so check if there are any shows during your visit. Enjoy dinner at Funky Gourmet, which offers innovative dishes in an elegant setting.

Begin your exploration in Istanbul with a visit to Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya). This architectural marvel has served as both a church and mosque throughout history and now stands as a museum showcasing Byzantine architecture.

Next up is Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), once home to Ottoman sultans it now serves as an extensive museum complex housing imperial collections & artifacts from Ottoman Empire era.

Conclude this culturally rich day by exploring vibrant Grand Bazaar (Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi)) - one among world’s oldest covered markets offering wide range goods from spices jewelry textiles carpets etc., followed by dinner at renowned restaurant serving authentic Turkish cuisine.

Start your day with a visit to Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii). This iconic mosque is known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture. Take your time to explore the interior and learn about its history.

Head over to Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı), an ancient underground water reservoir that once supplied water to the city. The atmospheric lighting and rows of columns make it a unique and fascinating site. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Turkish cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

End your day with a visit to Galata Tower (Galata Kulesi). Climb to the top for panoramic views of Istanbul. Afterward, dine at one of the highly-rated restaurants in the area.

Begin your Cappadocian adventure with a hot air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia. The early morning light creates a magical atmosphere as you float above fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations.

Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that features rock-cut churches and monasteries adorned with beautiful frescoes. For lunch, try some local specialties at Cappadocia, Abruzzo, Italia, known for its delicious regional dishes.

End your day with a visit to Uchisar Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy dinner at one of Cappadocia's charming restaurants.

Start your day with a hike through Rose Valley, known for its beautiful rock formations and vibrant colors. The trail offers stunning views and is perfect for nature lovers.

Visit Derinkuyu Underground City, an ancient multi-level underground city that once provided refuge for thousands of people. Explore its tunnels, rooms, and ventilation shafts while learning about its fascinating history. For lunch, enjoy some traditional Turkish cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Conclude your day with a visit to Pasabag (Monk's Valley), famous for its fairy chimneys and unique rock formations. Enjoy dinner at one of Cappadocia's highly-rated restaurants.