Italy and Greece 14-Day Itinerary: 2-Weeks in Italy & Greece

Italy and Greece are among the most popular European countries for travel, and it’s easy to see why. These Mediterranean destinations are full of unique sights and offer an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.

In this article, you can read a 14-day itinerary that explores the best of Italy and Greece. Our route takes you from Rome’s famous landmarks, through hidden gems in the Italian countryside, to the Greek islands and Athens. We’ll share tips and insights on how to make the most of your two-week trip to Italy and Greece.

You’ll also find travel tips, like when and how to travel, must-see attractions, and important things to consider while planning.

So, let’s dive into what you need to know for a two-week trip to Greece and Italy, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or on your honeymoon.

Now, let’s look at the general questions that arise when planning a trip to Italy and Greece, followed by a day-by-day list of the 14-day itinerary.

General questions about a trip to Italy and Greece

How many days to spend in Italy and Greece

Our itinerary is for 14 days, covering the best places in Italy and Greece. Over two weeks, you’ll have time to see the main attractions in each capital city and explore the countryside on a 7-day tour of each country.

A week in each country may not be enough, as both Italy and Greece are large and full of sights. For a comprehensive visit to both countries, we suggest spending at least 3 to 4 weeks in each. However, most tourists don’t have that much time, so we’ve put together a plan highlighting the most interesting spots in both countries.

If you want to spend more time in each country, visit lesser-known places, and enjoy a more relaxed trip, plan at least two weeks for each country separately. We can also suggest itineraries for that.

Best time to visit Greece and Italy

The best time to visit Greece and Italy is definitely in the spring and fall. The ideal months are May, early June, September, and early October. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the places are not too crowded.

We only recommend visiting in the summer if you really want to spend time at the beach. Otherwise, summer in both countries can be too crowded, and hotels are much more expensive, making it not the best time to travel. Additionally, the weather in the south can be uncomfortably hot from mid-June to the end of August.

We also don’t recommend visiting in the winter due to the chance of rainy and cold weather. Plus, many places, like hotels and restaurants, are closed in the winter. While it’s still possible to have a nice trip in winter, you should only choose this time if you have no other option.

Where to start your trip

We start our itinerary in Rome because it’s the easiest city to reach with most international flights.

Another option is Athens, which is also worth considering.

It doesn’t really matter which of the two capitals you choose to start with. Regardless of where you land, you should fly to the other city as well. This means you’ll need at least three flights: for example, from your starting point (home) to Rome, then from Rome to Athens, and finally from Athens to your final destination (home).

How to travel between Italy and Greece

We strongly recommend flying to travel between the two countries. Driving from Italy to Greece or vice versa is only advisable if you really prefer traveling by car.

Flying between Rome and Athens (or the reverse) is quick and easy, with a flight time of about 2 hours. There are several daily flights between the two capitals, with many airlines offering good options at reasonable prices.

How to get around the two countries

It’s important to note that for a 14-day trip to Italy and Greece, as our itinerary suggests, you should think of it as two 7-day trips. This means you’ll need to plan one week in Italy and one week in Greece.

This itinerary offers a variety of transportation options. You have the option to fly, take ferries, drive, go by boat, travel by train or bus, and even ride a quad bike (ATV) or scooter. It all depends on your preferences.

By car

We recommend renting a car in both capitals and driving through Italy, as well as exploring Greece by car and ferry.

In the itinerary, we’ll mark the distance and travel time between destinations in blue, based on driving without any stops.

By public transport

If you prefer not to rent a car, you can rely on public transportation (trains and buses) and private transfers in Italy.

In Greece, you can use ferries for island hopping and private transfers on the islands to get around.

In Athens and Rome, the traffic can be quite chaotic, so we recommend using taxis, the metro, or local buses to get around.

Where to stay during your trip

According to our itinerary, you’ll need about 6 nights in Italy and 7 nights in Greece. In the day-by-day detailed itinerary, we recommend specific hotels for each stop, which you can find below.

Best things to do on an Italy and Greece trip

• Explore Rome’s ancient sites: visit iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish. It’s a classic tradition for ensuring a return visit to Rome.
• Enjoy an authentic gelato from a local gelateria. The creamy texture and rich flavors are a must-try treat in Italy.
• Participate in a pesto cooking class in Manarola at Nessun Dorma. Learn how to make this classic Italian sauce with fresh, local ingredients.
• Explore the Amalfi Coast in style by cruising in a vintage Fiat 500 or on a Vespa. Take in the breathtaking views and charming coastal towns.
• Watch the famous Santorini sunset from a viewpoint or a restaurant with panoramic views. The vibrant colors over the caldera are unforgettable.
• Experience the nightlife in Mykonos’ Little Venice. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, dance, and sip cocktails by the waterfront.
• Taste an authentic Greek salad on one of the Greek islands. Enjoy the fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.

How much does a two-week trip to Italy and Greece cost?

A two-week trip to Italy and Greece will vary in cost depending on your preferences:

• Budget travel: For two people, plan on a minimum of 4000 euros. This covers travel, car rental, ferries, accommodation, and meals.
• Mid-range travel: If you prefer staying in at least four-star hotels, dining at nice restaurants, enjoying scenic views, wine tastings, and activities, budget around 5000–6000 euros.
• Luxury travel: For a luxury experience, expect to spend even more.

After the basic questions, let’s see how we think it’s worth spending 14 days in Greece and Italy.

Italy and Greece 14-day detailed itinerary: How to spend 2 weeks in Greece and Italy

Day 1-2: Rome

On the first day, when you arrive in Rome, start your itinerary by exploring the city center.

Rome is a lively and picturesque city with a rich cultural and historical background, offering plenty to see in a few days. Since you have two days to visit Rome, you’ll have enough time to see the most important places.

Here are some key tourist attractions to explore during your two-day city tour:

• Colosseum: This iconic ancient amphitheater was used for gladiator contests and public spectacles. It’s one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.
• Roman Forum: The center of ancient Rome’s public life, filled with ruins of important government buildings and temples.
• St. Peter’s Square: Located in Vatican City, this grand square is known for its impressive architecture and the famous St. Peter’s Basilica.
• Castel Sant’Angelo: Originally built as a mausoleum, this fortress later served as a papal residence and offers great views of Rome.
• Trevi Fountain: A stunning Baroque fountain where it’s tradition to toss a coin to ensure a return visit to Rome.
• Pantheon: A well-preserved ancient temple with a magnificent dome and oculus, now a church.
• Spanish Steps: A popular stairway of 135 steps leading from Piazza di Spagna to the Trinità dei Monti church, perfect for a sunset walk.
• Piazza Navona: A lively square known for its beautiful Baroque fountains and vibrant street artists.

Two days in Rome should be enough to see these attractions. Enjoy walking around the city, try some delicious Italian food, and don’t forget to have a gelato. If you feel like it, stop by a local bar for an Aperol Spritz.

Day 3-4: Amalfi Coast

On the third day of your 14-day Italy and Greece itinerary, it’s time to travel to another major destination in Italy: the Amalfi Coast.

Rome – Amalfi Coast: 275 km (170 mi), 3 hours 20 minutes

The Amalfi Coast is not only one of the most beautiful but also one of the most famous parts of Italy. Located south of Naples, it’s a bit challenging to reach, but it’s well worth the effort.

You’ll have about a day and a half to explore the Amalfi Coast, which should be enough to see its main highlights:

Positano

Start your visit in Positano, the most iconic town on the Amalfi Coast with breathtaking views. While you’re there, be sure to dine at a scenic restaurant like Rada Beach Restaurant, and don’t miss the famous Amalfi Coast lemon sorbet. Stroll through the charming streets, visit the black pebble beach, and explore the local attractions.

Amalfi

On the next day, head to Amalfi. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral, take a walk around the area, and enjoy the view from the seaside promenade. For dining, we recommend the cozy Pizzeria Donna Stella, which offers delicious Italian dishes in a lemon grove garden.

Ravello

If you have time in the afternoon, also visit Ravello. For a small entrance fee, you can enjoy stunning sea views from the Terrazza dell’Infinito.

Day 5: Florence

On the fifth day of the 14-day Italy and Greece itinerary, head to Florence, the most artistic and historic city in Tuscany. Florence is renowned for its Renaissance art, architecture, and vibrant culture, making it a must-see destination.

Here are some key attractions to explore during your day in Florence:

• Piazzale Michelangelo: For breathtaking views of Florence, head to Piazzale Michelangelo. This panoramic viewpoint offers a stunning view of the city’s skyline, including the Duomo and the Arno River.
• Uffizi Gallery: This world-famous art museum houses masterpieces by artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. It’s a treasure trove of Renaissance art.
• Florence Cathedral (Duomo): Known for its stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi, the cathedral is an architectural marvel. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
• Ponte Vecchio: A historic bridge over the Arno River, famous for its jewelry shops. It’s a picturesque spot and a great place to stroll.
• Piazza della Signoria: A lively square featuring the Palazzo Vecchio and numerous statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David. It’s a central gathering place in Florence.
• Accademia Gallery: Home to Michelangelo’s original David statue, this museum is a key destination for art lovers.

During visiting these places, enjoy a leisurely walk through the city, and savor a traditional Italian meal.

Day 6: Cinque Terre

On the sixth day of the 14-day Italy and Greece itinerary, explore the picturesque Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its colorful villages, stunning coastal views, and terraced vineyards.

Florence – Cinque Terre: 170 km (106 mi), 2 hours 20 minutes

Cinque Terre consists of five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village has its own unique charm and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Here’s how to make the most of your day in Cinque Terre:

• Riomaggiore: Start your day in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village. Stroll through its narrow streets, explore the small harbor, and enjoy the colorful houses stacked along the cliffs.
• Manarola: Next, head to Manarola, one of the most photographed villages in Cinque Terre. Take a walk along the scenic paths that offer breathtaking views of the sea, and if you’re up for it, join a pesto-making class at Nessun Dorma for an authentic Italian experience.
• Corniglia: After Manarola, make your way to Corniglia, the only village in Cinque Terre that is not directly on the coast. Perched high on a cliff, Corniglia offers stunning views of the sea and surrounding vineyards. Climb the 382 steps from the train station, then wander through the narrow streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
• Vernazza: Continue your journey to Vernazza, often considered the most picturesque village in Cinque Terre. Explore the harbor, visit the Church of Santa Margherita d’Antiochia, and hike up to the Castello Doria for panoramic views of the village and the sea.
• Monterosso al Mare: End your day in Monterosso al Mare, the largest village in Cinque Terre. Take a walk along the beaches, and if it’s summer, this is the best spot for swimming. Enjoy the Cinque Terre sunset while having a nice Ligurian dinner.

Day 7: Rome

On the seventh day, head back to Rome, as the next part of our itinerary will soon continue in Greece.

Cinque Terre – Rome: 420 km (261 mi), 4 hours 30 minutes

Since the drive is relatively long, there won’t be much time for stops.

However, if you do have time to stop somewhere, we recommend either the town of Orvieto or the Saturnia hot springs. Both can be explored in about 2 to 4 hours. Keep in mind that a detour to Saturnia will add an extra hour to your journey, so plan wisely.

So on the seventh day, the itinerary brings you back to Rome, where you’ll catch your flight to Athens, Greece.

Spend the night in Athens, so you can start the Greek part of your 14-day tour the next day.

Day 8: Athens

On the eighth day of your 14-day Italy and Greece trip, explore Athens, the capital of Greece with its rich history and vibrant culture.

Since traffic and parking in the city can be chaotic, we recommend using a taxi or public transport to reach the attractions.

Here are some key highlights to see during your visit to Athens:

• Acropolis: Begin your day at the Acropolis, the ancient citadel that houses several important structures, including the Parthenon. It offers breathtaking views of the city and is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Greek history.
• Parthenon: Located on the Acropolis, this iconic temple was dedicated to the goddess Athena. It is one of the most significant surviving monuments of ancient Greece.
• Agora: Explore the Ancient Agora, which was the central public space in ancient Athens. It was used for market activities, political discussions, and social gatherings. Key sites include the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos. Note that the more expensive Acropolis ticket includes entry to the Agora as well. Finding the entrance can be challenging, so look for “Entrance of Agora” on Google Maps.
• Acropolis Museum: This modern museum showcases artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis and provides insights into the history of the ancient city. The exhibits are well-organized and offer a deeper understanding of the archaeological site.
• Plaka: Wander through the Plaka neighborhood, known for its charming atmosphere. This area is filled with traditional Greek tavernas, shops, and cafés, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll and to enjoy some local cuisine.
• National Archaeological Museum: If time permits, consider visiting this museum, which houses one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Greek artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.

Day 9-10: Mykonos

On the ninth and tenth days of your 14-day Italy and Greece trip, visit Mykonos, a beautiful Greek island known for its lively nightlife, stunning beaches, and charming town.

You can travel from Athens to Mykonos by plane or ferry. If you’re traveling by car, you’ll need to take the ferry. If you’re traveling without a car, flying is also an option, but we recommend the ferry for a more scenic experience.

Check flight prices on the Aegean Airlines website and ferry schedules on Ferryhopper.

Ferries to the Greek islands depart from two ports in Athens: Rafina and Piraeus. If you have a car, it doesn’t matter which port you use. If you’re traveling without a car, we recommend Piraeus, as it’s easier to get to from the city.

The ferry ride from Athens to Mykonos takes between 2.5 and 5 hours, depending on the ferry.

If you choose to fly, the flight time is about 40 minutes, but including airport procedures, the total travel time will be around 3–4 hours.

You’ll likely arrive in Mykonos by the afternoon of the ninth day, giving you about a day and a half to explore the island. Most of the island’s attractions are in the western, more populated part near the port.

How to spend the evening of the ninth day in Mykonos:

• Mykonos Town: Start by exploring the lively capital of the island. Walk through the narrow, winding streets of Mykonos Town, known for its whitewashed buildings, boutique shops, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the iconic Mykonos windmills and enjoy the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
• Little Venice: Head to this picturesque area of Mykonos Town, where colorful buildings line the waterfront. It’s a great spot for photos and enjoying drinks with a view.

If you’re up for it, visit a local bar and experience the nightlife in the bustling old town. There are many places with live music in the evenings.

Spend the night in Mykonos and continue exploring the island the next day.

Day 10: More of Mykonos

• Morning: Start your day by heading back to Mykonos Town. Explore the shops, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, and don’t miss the chance to have a delicious Greek meal at one of the local tavernas. Mykonos is just as beautiful during the day as it is at night.
• Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at one of Mykonos’ stunning beaches. We recommend the Agios Stefanos Beach, the Paradise Beach, or the Ornos Beach. Whether you want to take a walk along the shore or swim in the clear waters, the beaches offer a perfect way to unwind.
• If you’re looking for more to do, visit Ano Mera in the center of the island. This quiet village offers a traditional side of Mykonos, where you can visit the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and enjoy the more peaceful surroundings.
• Sunset: For a breathtaking sunset, consider the 180º Sunset Bar. From here, you can enjoy a stunning view of the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Just be aware that there’s a minimum spend, and it’s not the cheapest place, but the experience is worth it.
• Evening: We recommend traveling to Santorini in the evening. Spend the night there, as you’ll want plenty of time to explore Santorini’s many attractions. The evening ferry from Mykonos to Santorini takes around 3 hours.

Day 11-12: Santorini

We believe Santorini is the most beautiful of the Greek islands, so it’s a must-visit if you’re planning a trip to Greece.

Day 11: Exploring Oia and the beaches of Santorini

Start your day by exploring Oia, the most iconic spot on Santorini. It’s best to arrive early in the morning, as the town gets crowded by 10 AM, especially during the summer. Spend the morning walking through Oia’s picturesque streets, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the views. Stroll along the Nik. Nomikou pedestrian street, check out the local shops, and wander into the narrower alleys to find hidden viewpoints.

Here are some of the best spots in Oia (Google Maps names):

• 3 Domes Viewpoint
• Beautiful Blue Domed Church of Oia
• Church of Agios Nikolaos
• Views of Santorini and Caldera
• Oia Lookout Panoramic Viewpoint
• Two Mill Oia

Oia has plenty of photo opportunities, and you’ll likely find even more as you explore!

In the afternoon, you can either enjoy a scenic lunch in Oia or escape the summer crowds by heading out to the countryside. Whether by car, private transfer, or rented ATV, consider visiting one of Santorini’s beaches, such as Kamari Beach or Perivolos Beach on the southeastern side of the island.

In the evening, it’s worth returning to Oia for the sunset, as it’s a must-see on Santorini. Whether you watch it from one of the viewpoints, a restaurant, or a hotel with a view, the sunset in Oia is a breathtaking experience.

Here are some of the best spots for the sunset:

• Oia Lookout Panoramic Viewpoint: free but crowded
• Old Castle Oia: offers hotel rooms with views, a pool, and private hot tubs
• Lioyerma Lounge Cafe Pool Bar
• Lycabettus Restaurant

Enjoy the magical atmosphere as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea, wrapping up your day in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Day 12: Exploring Imerovigli and Fira

Start your day in Imerovigli. This small but stunning village on Santorini is known for its breathtaking views. Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to avoid any hassles. Begin by visiting the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord, one of the most famous photo spots on the island. Then, take a walk through the narrow streets of Imerovigli towards Skaros Rock. If you’re up for it, you can hike out to the rock for even more amazing views.

For lunch, head to Fira, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants with stunning views. Make sure to reserve a table in advance, as these spots are popular. Our favorite is Kaliya Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by beautiful pink flowers. Other great options with incredible views include Aris Restaurant and Character.

After a relaxing lunch, take a stroll along Agiou Mina Street in Fira, where you can continue to enjoy the coastal views. This street is also a perfect spot for watching the sunset. While exploring Fira, don’t miss the “I Love Santorini” sign, the Panoramic View Fira point, and the Three Bells of Fira.

If you have time in the afternoon, consider visiting Akrotiri, where you can explore a lighthouse and an archaeological site. Alternatively, you could book a boat tour to see Santorini from the sea. Sunset boat tours are especially popular!

If you prefer to relax, consider spending the afternoon or sunset at a wine tasting. Santo Wines, located near the port, offers one of the best wine-tasting experiences with a view.

Santorini offers endless ways to enjoy your time, so make the most of these two days on the island.

Day 13: Naxos

On the thirteenth day of the 14-day Italy and Greece itinerary, travel to Naxos in the morning.

The ferry from Santorini to Naxos takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Naxos, one of the largest islands in the Cyclades, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, charming villages, and historical sites.

Here’s how to make the most of your day trip:

Morning: Explore Naxos Town

Start your day in Naxos Town. Begin by visiting the Temple of Apollo, an iconic marble gate on a small island near the port. This ancient site, dedicated to Apollo, offers impressive views of both the town and the Aegean Sea.

After enjoying the view, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, which is a medieval fortress area.

For lunch, head to one of the seaside restaurants along the waterfront promenade near the port. There are many places to choose from, so you can find something that suits your taste.

Afternoon: Relax on a beach

In the afternoon, relax on one of Naxos’s beautiful beaches. Recommended options include Mikri Vigla Beach or Agios Prokopios Beach.

If you’re not visiting in the summer, you might want to visit the Archaeological Museum of Naxos or see ancient ruins like the Temple of Dionysus and Faragi Kouros.

Evening: Return to Naxos Town for sunset and dinner

As the day winds down, return to Naxos Town to watch the sunset. The area around the Temple of Apollo is a perfect spot for viewing the sunset. For dinner, choose a seaside taverna where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes with a view of the illuminated Temple of Apollo.

Naxos is a pleasant and relaxing island for a one-day trip. Spend the night on Naxos, and then return to Athens the next day.

Day 14: Athens

On the last day of your trip, return from Naxos to Athens as your journey is almost over.

The ferry from Naxos to Athens takes about 4 to 5 hours.

In Athens, if you missed any sights before, you might have some time to see them. But be careful with your plans because getting around Athens can be very tricky, and it’s not easy to travel between the port, the airport, and the city center.

If your flight leaves early, you might not have time to visit more places in Athens.

If you still want to spend time in Athens, try to schedule your flight for the evening of Day 14 or the morning of an added 15th day.

Whatever you decide, our 2-week itinerary ends in Athens. This 14-day plan has shown you some of the most interesting places in Italy and Greece. If you want to see more, feel free to extend your trip.

We have some extra suggestions below.

Other destinations you can add to your itinerary

Venice

Venice is a special city built on water and is known for its romantic feel. You can ride a gondola through the canals, visit famous places like Saint Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace, and wander through its narrow, charming streets. Venice is a place full of history and culture, offering a unique experience.

You can easily reach Venice by car or train from Florence, with the trip taking just a few hours. Add 2-3 extra days to your itinerary, and you’ll have time to explore Venice and even visit the colorful island of Burano.

Milan

Milan is a modern city in Italy known for fashion and design. You can visit the famous Duomo, a stunning cathedral, and see The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Milan is also great for shopping and enjoying Italian food. It’s a mix of history, art, and modern culture.

You can easily reach Milan from Cinque Terre. On the way, don’t miss the stunning small town of Portofino. Since the trip takes only a few hours, adding 2-3 days to your itinerary will be enough to explore Milan and visit Portofino.

Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island and is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and ancient history. You can explore the Palace of Knossos, which is linked to the legend of the Minotaur. Crete also has charming villages, tasty food, and warm weather, making it a great place to relax and explore.

Crete is a large island, so it’s worth adding at least 3-4 days to your itinerary if you want to visit. The easiest way to reach Crete is by flying from Athens or taking a ferry from Santorini.

Meteora

Meteora is a unique place in Greece where you can see monasteries built on top of tall rock pillars. It’s a great spot for hiking and enjoying amazing views.

Meteora is about a 3.5-hour drive from Athens, so it’s hard to visit in just one day. However, two days is enough to take a trip from Athens and see the stunning viewpoints and the monasteries along the way.

In summary, a 2-week trip to Greece and Italy offers the perfect mix of city sightseeing, countryside excursions, and culinary and cultural experiences.

By following this itinerary, you can make the most of your time and explore the highlights of both countries.

Whether cruising between the Greek islands, strolling through Italian towns, or admiring Rome’s architecture, each day brings new adventures.

With travel tips on transportation, accommodation, and must-see attractions, planning your trip is made easier. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy 2 weeks of unforgettable experiences in these beautiful European destinations!