Welcome to the Ancient World!
Enjoy this Grand Tour of Greece and Italy, a transformative journey that brings your studies to life by connecting the landmarks, monuments, and cultural treasures that have shaped Western civilization and our Christian faith. Walk in the footsteps of Socrates, explore the Acropolis and the Agora where democracy was born, and visit the ruins of Corinth that Paul once knew. From Ancient Greece to the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, this trip offers a unique opportunity to experience the roots of history, culture, and faith firsthand.
Enjoy a stay at this historic Athens hotel, in the heart of the city. This hotel is directly across from the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and just steps from the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum.
Take an incredible bike ride through the streets of Athens. Tour leaders, all local Athenians, will guide you to hidden gems and stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Roman Agora. This is the perfect way to get a feel for the city and cover lots of ground.
Athens invites you to explore the very birthplace of democracy and Western philosophy, offering a captivating blend of ancient historical grandeur, timeless cultural treasures, and a vibrant modern Mediterranean spirit.
A list of recommendations will be provided.
Explore the ruins of the iconic 5th-century BC temple at the Acropolis, the ancient heart of Athens. Visit landmarks like the Parthenon while enjoying panoramic views that capture the city's rich history and architecture. A must-see for any traveler to Greece!
The Acropolis Museum is a treasure trove of ancient Greek artifacts, providing a comprehensive insight into the rich history and culture of Athens. It has sculptures, pottery, and architectural fragments from the Acropolis.
Visit the Ancient Agora, where ancient Greeks once gathered, and explore the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus.
Explore this central square of Athens with the Greek Parliament.
Enjoy a relaxed restaurant offering traditional Greek together for dinner.
Stop and see the Canal of Corinth, an engineering marvel that connects the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. This impressive feat of construction offers a fascinating glimpse into historical ingenuity.
Wander through the ancient ruins of Corinth, where you’ll encounter the remnants of a once-thriving city. Admire the impressive Temple of Apollo, a testament to the grandeur of ancient Greek architecture.
Explore the Mycenaean ruins, famous for their sophisticated architecture and rich history. Wander through the remnants of Mycenae, the ancient city of King Agamemnon, and marvel at landmarks like the Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus.
A list of recommendations will be provided.
Step into the heart of ancient Greece with a guided tour of Delphi, once considered the center of the world. You'll explore the awe-inspiring ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater, then visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum to see incredible artifacts - including the famed Charioteer of Delphi - that bring the site's rich spiritual and political history to life.
Explore the Ancient Stadium of Delphi, where the ruins of this historic site once hosted athletic events during the Pythian Games, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Unpack the oracle of Delphi.
A list of recommendations will be provided.
Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern life. Founded in 315 BC, it was a major hub of the Byzantine Empire and remains significant for its Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage, with landmarks like the White Tower and Rotunda. Today, it thrives as a cosmopolitan city known for its lively waterfront, rich cultural scene, and bustling markets.
Explore the Byzantine Walls of Thessaloniki, a centuries-old fortification offering panoramic views of the city and a fascinating glimpse into its medieval history and defense architecture.
Stop by the Rotunda, a monumental structure dating back to the 4th century, renowned for its impressive mosaics and layered history as a mausoleum, church, and mosque.
Visit Thessaloniki’s Hagia Sophia, a magnificent Byzantine church dating to the 8th century, celebrated for its beautiful mosaics and rich historical significance as both a church and a mosque.
Taste the rich flavors of authentic Greek cuisine, from meze and souvlaki to local delights like koulouri, while exploring Thessaloniki's vibrant markets and hidden gems.
This hotel offers a luxurious and welcoming atmosphere, combining classic elegance with modern comfort. Its central location provides easy access to iconic landmarks.
Discover Rome from a fresh perspective by exploring the city on a bike tour. Experience the best sites and iconic landmarks. Rome's rich history, art, and culture come alive as you pedal through its charming streets.
Rome invites you to step into an "Eternal City" where ancient ruins and historical grandeur beautifully intertwine with vibrant modern life, offering an unparalleled blend of cultural, spiritual, and culinary experiences.
A list of recommendations will be provided.
The Vatican Museums are a world-renowned cultural institution, and are home to one of the most important art collections in the world. They house artistic masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and others, spanning over two millennia.
Rome invites you to step into an "Eternal City" where ancient ruins and historical grandeur beautifully intertwine with vibrant modern life, offering an unparalleled blend of cultural, spiritual, and culinary experiences.
See this ancient Christian burial tunnels containing 3rd-century frescoes and the crypts of martyrs and popes.
A list of recommendations will be provided.
These two iconic landmarks offer a glimpse into one of the greatest empires in history. The Colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built. It was a symbol of Roman engineering and entertainment, hosting gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles that entertained thousands of spectators.
Rome invites you to step into an "Eternal City" where ancient ruins and historical grandeur beautifully intertwine with vibrant modern life, offering an unparalleled blend of cultural, spiritual, and culinary experiences.
Enjoy a group pizza dinner this last night in Rome. After pizza, the class can walk and grab gelato as a group and reflect on all that the group has seen and learned thus far.
Enjoy your stay at a centrally located Florence hotel, perfectly situated within walking distance of the city’s historic landmarks, charming piazzas, and vibrant local cafés.
Discover Florence from a fresh perspective by exploring the city on a bike tour. Experience the best sites and iconic landmarks, including the Uffizi Gallery, Republic Square, and the impressive Basilica Santa Croce, the world's largest Franciscan church. Florence's rich history, art, and culture come alive as you pedal through its charming streets.
The Accademia Gallery is one of Florence's top museums, famed for Michelangelo's iconic David and other works by renowned Italian artists, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Florence invites you into the heart of the Renaissance, offering an exquisite blend of unparalleled artistic masterpieces, historic charm, world-renowned fashion, and delightful Tuscan culinary experiences, all set within an enchanting, walkable city.
A list of recommendations will be provided.
The Florence Cathedral, or Duomo, is a stunning masterpiece that dominates the city's skyline. Designed by Arnolfo di Cambio and completed in 1436, it boasts a remarkable feature: the massive dome, a genius creation of Filippo Brunelleschi. Taking over a century to build, it stands as the largest masonry dome in the world. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to climb the Duomo, with special access to its dome and rooftop terrace, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the city.
The Uffizi Gallery, originally designed as administrative offices for the Florentine government in the 16th century by Giorgio Vasari, is now a renowned art gallery. It showcases iconic works by legendary artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Botticelli.
Florence invites you into the heart of the Renaissance, offering an exquisite blend of unparalleled artistic masterpieces, historic charm, world-renowned fashion, and delightful Tuscan culinary experiences, all set within an enchanting, walkable city.
Enjoy your final night together over a delightful dinner, where you can savor exquisite dishes, share laughter, and create lasting memories as you reflect on the wonderful experiences you've had throughout your journey.
Please Note:
The sample itinerary and budget provided are based on a specific number of participants and chaperones. Final pricing per person will vary depending on your group size and any adjustments made to the itinerary. Please keep in mind that prices may fluctuate depending on travel dates, seasonality, and other factors.
Please email us at [email protected] or call us at 512.596.1642 for more information.
All of our trips are fully customizable—this sample itinerary is simply a starting point to give you a sense of what is possible! We are happy to tailor every detail to fit your group’s unique needs, interests, and preferences.
Group travel can be a difficult and frustrating experience. The group is only as fast as the slowest participant, and that is why our clients spend most of their time in Chaperone Groups. These small groups consist of roughly 4-5 students and 2-3 adults, and move much more efficiently (and happily!) through the cities, allowing students to focus on their unique interests. Keeping entire groups together while following a yellow umbrella around cities (‘amoeba style’) creates missed opportunities and makes unfortunate use of valuable time.
The beauty of any school trip is the opportunity for the student to build self-confidence, problem solve, and learn how to navigate in a new environment. The adults are present to help keep students safe, but otherwise should ‘lead from behind’. At Kairos Tours we focus heavily on student leadership and responsibility for their trip experience.
Is there a minimum number of guests required for this trip?
There’s no minimum number of participants required, but please note that the fewer people in the group, the higher the price per person. Larger groups help keep individual costs lower by sharing fixed expenses like transportation and guides.
What information will be provided before the trip?
Each traveler will receive a complete, dynamic itinerary that includes travel logistics, hotel details, tours, entrance information, meeting points, and more—everything you need to feel fully prepared.
Will there be a group meeting before departure?
Yes! We’ll schedule a pre-trip meeting (either in person or via Google Meet) to go over final details, answer questions, and ensure everyone is ready and excited.
Does Kairos Tours provide a Tour Director?
A Tour Director can be arranged to accompany your group upon request. Please note this may affect the overall cost of the trip.
Will the itinerary change from what’s currently listed?
Kairos Tours will make every reasonable effort to provide this trip in accordance with the descriptions provided. Although it is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your reservation or cancel confirmed reservations, we reserve the right to do so should it become necessary or advisable, in our sole discretion. We’ll always prioritize the best possible experience for your group!
Are trip prices guaranteed?
All pricing is based on current estimates and subject to change due to factors like group size, travel dates, currency exchange rates, and seasonal variations.
Are meals included in the trip price?
Lunches and dinners are typically not included in the trip price, allowing for flexibility and the opportunity to explore local dining options. Personal incidentals, such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities, are also the responsibility of each traveler.
What if there are unexpected delays or issues?
Kairos Tours is not responsible for costs or disruptions resulting from circumstances beyond our control, such as flight delays, changes or cancellations, injuries, weather, war, natural disasters, strikes, social discourse, pandemics, etc., and/or other unforeseeable matters.
My name is David Mebane and I am a lifelong traveler that experienced my first international trip as a 2nd grader, and I haven’t stopped since. I founded Fat Tire Tours in Paris, France in 1999 and love showing people around the City of Light. That passion has grown to include other incredible destinations around the globe, and is the genesis for Kairos Tours. I don't know every destination on the globe, but I do know several well, and I love to take people with me to create experiences and memories that last a lifetime.
I live in Austin, Texas with my wife Kelly and our son Weston and daughter Caroline. However, we spend as much time as we can elsewhere since there is nothing better than an adventure with family and friends.
Your grand European adventure begins where Western civilization itself was born: in Greece, the land of gods, heroes, and groundbreaking ideas. Imagine walking through Athens, where the very concepts of democracy and philosophy first took root, setting the stage for future empires and intellectual thought. Here, monumental structures like the majestic Parthenon still stand as powerful testaments to ancient engineering and artistry, inspiring awe as they have for millennia. This is where the spark of human genius ignited, giving rise to thinkers who shaped our understanding of the world and laying the bedrock for much of what we value in art, science, and governance today.
Next, journey to the heart of Italy, to Florence, the breathtaking cradle of the Renaissance. After centuries, the light of ancient knowledge was rekindled here, sparking an unparalleled burst of creativity and innovation in the 14th to 16th centuries. Under the patronage of visionary families like the Medici, brilliant minds like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci created masterpieces that redefined art, science, and the very potential of human achievement. Explore its cobblestone streets, marvel at iconic cathedrals, and feel the vibrant pulse of a city that truly changed the world, becoming a beacon for artists, thinkers, and dreamers for generations to come.
Finally, your incredible journey culminates in Rome, the awe-inspiring "Eternal City," whose legacy spans over two and a half millennia. From a humble settlement, Rome rose to command a vast empire that stretched across continents, spreading its laws, engineering marvels, and culture far and wide. Picture the echoes of gladiators in the colossal Colosseum, the grandeur of the Roman Forum, and the timeless beauty of the Pantheon. Today, Rome remains a living museum, where ancient ruins stand proudly alongside magnificent Baroque churches and the bustling energy of modern life, each layer telling a compelling story of power, faith, and enduring human spirit, a true testament to civilization's grandeur.