Graphic with the Colosseum in Rome with the words "Greetings from The Olympics"
Japan 2026

Switzerland to Greece 2026

History and Culture of the Olympics: Switzerland to Greece

Trip Leaders: Dr. Haley Burton and Dr. Chris Huggins

This tour will explore Europe’s rich cultural, historical, and Olympic legacies, tying together breathtaking landscapes and remarkable cities. We’ll begin in the stunning Swiss Alps, visiting Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Lauterbrunnen, reflecting on Switzerland’s role in winter sports and its hosting of the 1928 and 1948 Winter Olympics.

From there, we will travel south into Italy, starting with the unique and enchanting city of Venice, renowned for its canals, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Doge’s Palace. Next, we will visit Florence, the heart of the Renaissance, where we will marvel at landmarks such as the Duomo, Michelangelo Hill, and the Ponte Vecchio while appreciating world-class works of art. Continuing south, we will venture to Rome. Rome will bring history and the Olympic spirit together, as we explore iconic sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican while recalling the 1960 Summer Olympics. From Rome, we journey to Naples, the gateway to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the scenic Amalfi Coast, where we’ll experience a blend of history, natural beauty, and Italy’s passion for sports.

Our adventure will then take us to Greece, beginning in Athens, where we’ll explore the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of the Olympics, with visits to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and other ancient landmarks. 

If time permits, we’ll conclude our tour with a visit to the idyllic island of Santorini, known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed architecture, and vibrant culture.

Cities Visited
  • Zurich, Switzerland
  • Interlaken, Switzerland
  • Grindelwald, Switzerland
  • Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
  • Milan, Italy
  • Florence, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Pompeii, Italy
  • Athens, Greece

Trip Highlights*

  • Scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps to Interlaken
  • Grindelwald and Mount First, with possible hike
  • Interlaken lake
  • Train ride to Milan with city exploration
  • Milan Duomo di Milano
  • Santa Maria delle Grazie
  • Train ride to Florence
  • Florence Cathedral
  • Piazza del Duomo
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Palazzo Pitti
  • Boboli Gardens
  • Cinque Terre
  • Train to Rome
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Pantheon
  • The Colosseum
  • Roman Forum
  • Palatine Hill
  • Vatican City
  • Stadio Olimpico
  • Foro Italico
  • Train to Naples with exploration of city center
  • Blue Grotto
  • Chairlift to Monte Solaro
  • Path of the Forts
  • Piazzetta
  • Visit Pompeii to explore ruins
  • House of the Faun
  • Amphitheater
  • Temple of Apollo
  • Fly to Athens
  • Plaka District
  • Acropolis
  • Parthenon
  • Ancient Agora
  • National Archaeological Museum
  • Syntagma Square
  • Mount Lycabettus
  • Travel to Santorini, explore Red Beach, Perissa
  • Ancient Akrotiri
  • Santorini Boat Tour

*The above list is preliminary itinerary. Changes and substitutions may need to occur. 

Frequently Asked Questions