Days 1-2 VenicePiazzas, canals and gondolas - this could only be Venice. Wander the enchanting backstreets and discover beautiful churches, bountiful galleries and vibrant markets around every corner. See the fascinating Bridge of Sighs - the last Venetian view prisoners had before being thrown in the dungeons. Days 3-4 Cinque TerreNothing beats the sunset over the pastel hillside villages on this acclaimed stretch of coastline. The walk between the five villages is challenging, but the rewards are great - look to one side to see rolling hillsides covered with vineyards and olive groves and to the other side to see the warm, inviting waters of the Mediterranean. Stunning vistas, hidden coves and quaint fishing villages are abundant, so get out among them and end the day with a refreshing swim, followed by a seafood feast by the water. Days 5-6 FlorenceThe beating heart of Italy's Renaissance, Florence never fails to impress - between the Ponte Vecchio, the Medici Chapels, Michelangelo's David and the Uffizi Gallery there's much to see and do. Why not head uphill to Piazzale Michelangelo for incredible views across the Florentine rooftops. Alternatively, hit the markets and the chic boutiques or line up with the hordes at the vans dishing out trippa - tripe in a bun. Days 7-8 RomeFollow the old adage and make like a Roman - which means sipping espresso or whizzing around on a Vespa - or take to the streets on foot and see the sights. When it comes to ancient ruins and remarkable relics, Rome really delivers. See the Colosseum, Pantheon and Spanish Steps or organise an excursion to Vatican City to see the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. Enjoy free time to see the streets at a slower pace and, if Rome impresses, be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to guarantee a return. Days 9-10 NaplesCheck out the Archaeological Museum - it houses original, chilling artefacts from the Pompeii site. Naples is the home of pizza, so leave plenty of room to gorge on Italy's finest slice. Perhaps walk it off with a visit to Mt Vesuvius or take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast and make the most of the warm waters and fresh seafood. Alternatively, take a ferry to Capri and listen out for the song of the mythical Sirens. Day 11 Bari/Overnight FerryCross over to the east of Italy and take an overnight ferry to Corfu. Days 12-13 CorfuWake up in Greece. Lap up the island delights of Corfu, where bright blue waters, golden sands and rocky coves make for an idyllic interlude. Climb Mt Pantokrator - the views from the top stretch as far as Albania and Italy. Thrill seekers might like to try paragliding or diving. End the day with a fresh seafood feast by the harbour. Days 14-15 AthensThe birthplace of democracy has plenty to offer - the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square is fascinating, while the Parthenon offers magnificent views over the whole of Athens. After a day of exploration, perhaps take a trip to the Peloponnese peninsula to see Epidavros and the Corinth canal. Days 16-17 SantoriniBask on the black sand beach and cool off in the ocean. Explore the ruins of Thira and Akrotiri or make like the Greeks and hire a scooter to really see the island. Head to a local taverna in the evening and share an ouzo or two with the locals. Day 18 MykonosFill up on some of Greece's best gyros or check out the island's popular beaches. This island has a holiday vibe like no other. Days 19-20 LesvosWith its unspoilt atmosphere, friendly local folks and bizarre fossilised forest, Lesvos is an enchanting destination. Discover great forests of pine and chestnuts, sample delicious produce and spend a little time lazing on the beach. Day 21 AyvalikBoard a local ferry to Ayvalik situated on the Aegean coast of Turkey. Experience the rustic ambience of its cobbled backstreets, discover tiny cafes round hidden bends and stay overnight in a beautiful traditional pension. Days 22-23 IstanbulRound off this adventure with a visit to the ancient Hippodrome, formerly the central focus of the Byzantine Empire. Check out the iconic Blue Mosque and the Aya Sofya - an incredible reminder that this city was once Constantinople. Perhaps celebrate the end of the journey with a Turkish feast or enjoy a final sunset over Europe from the Asian shore.
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