Irene Lappa
Growing up as an only child, I learned early the value of connection with people, places, and cultures. Thanks to my parents' love for road trips, my childhood was filled with unexpected friendships, ancient sites, hidden trails, and breathtaking coastlines.
Those early experiences shaped my deep appreciation for cultural understanding and the lasting impact of meaningful travel. Today, after many journeys of my own, I feel truly fortunate to design personalized travel experiences and share the joy of discovery with others.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I specialize in curating journeys throughout Italy and Greece, destinations rich in culture, breathtaking landscapes, authenticity, and exceptional wine and gastronomy.
My focus is on crafting refined, immersive experiences that strike a thoughtful balance between meaningful exploration, relaxation, and indulgence. Each itinerary is designed with intention, allowing travelers to connect with local history and traditions while enjoying the pleasures of elegant travel and fine living."
How did you get involved in travel?
"Travel has always been a part of my life in one way or another. But the true journey began when I made the bold decision to leave behind my career as an assistant director in the Greek film industry and give myself permission to start fresh, to reimagine my path with clarity and intention.
Starting from scratch, I asked myself some fundamental questions: What do I truly want to do? What would bring me joy every single day? What do I know and love? The answer came naturally: I love travel. I love art & culture. I love wine. I have some knowledge in each and a deep passion for discovering them and sharing the experience with others. That was the turning point.
I began formal studies in both tourism and wine, and while still studying, I was offered a role at a travel agency designing tailor-made journeys for independent travelers. It was a revelation, I absolutely loved it.
Years later, after continued studies in wine - an endlessly fascinating field - and countless travel experiences, I truly feel at home in what I do. I'm proud to be part of the Travel 12 team, where we share a deep passion for travel and a commitment to creating truly unique, life-changing experiences for our travelers."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"In 2010, after wrapping up a demanding 120-day film project, I realized I needed something more than just rest. I needed time for myself. Time to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with what truly mattered to me. So, I took a ferry to one of my favorite places in Greece: the island of Crete.
What began as a solo road trip across a vast island with long, winding roads turned into a transformative two-month journey. Though I had visited Crete many times before, this experience was different. I met inspiring people, discovered hidden gems far from the beaten path, and - most importantly - uncovered two life-changing truths: first, while I still deeply loved films as an art form, I no longer liked the lifestyle of working in the film industry; and second, that even I was traveling solo, I never felt truly alone.
A year later, I had stepped onto an entirely new path, immersed in new studies, a renewed daily rhythm, and, ultimately finding myself in a place of purpose and genuine happiness."
Irene's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Combine ancient sights and delicious Greek cuisine on this 12-day gastronomy-focused tour of the Aegean. You'll start in the capital with dinner overlooking the Acropolis before...
Embark on the ultimate Italian food and wine tour as you uncover the secrets to delicious pesto in Genoa, sample the best of Emilia-Romagna's pasta, and savor artisanal cheeses...
Experience the best of Mediterranean food, culture, and history with this two-week grand tour that sweeps you across Rome and Venice before alighting on the islands of Crete and...
Family itineraries
Greece has a multitude of wonders to attract you and your family for 10 days of adventure. It's one of the sunniest places in the world, so catch some rays as you explore the...
Take a week getting out into nature in the Peloponnesian peninsula with this itinerary designed for older kids and teenagers. Start in Athens, where you'll juxtapose Classical...
See some of the most popular spots in Greece with this one-week itinerary for the whole family. You'll start in Athens, where you can listen to Classical myths atop the...
Luxury itineraries
Experience the best of Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini on this romantic 13-day luxury voyage. You'll explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis and sample local delicacies before...
Never feel rushed on this 18-day luxury grand tour as you're whisked to each destination by a blend of private drivers and concierge train journeys. Start in Naples to explore...
Find the perfect balance of Italy's history and natural beauty on this tour, starting with boat rides and scenic vistas on Lake Como before heading to the scenic hills of Cinque...
Road trip itineraries
Spend two weeks exploring northern Italy at your own speed with this self-drive itinerary that allows you to choose the stops. You'll start off in the northern lakes, with Lake...
Get ready for gorgeous views and a healthy dose of history on this 10-day self-drive tour of Athens and the Peloponnese. You'll learn about ancient Greek mythology at the...
Get an in-depth look at the Greek countryside on this 11-day road trip around the Peloponnese. Begin in Athens, where you'll learn about ancient mythology at the Acropolis. Then...
Recent trip reviews for Irene
Italy is amazing
Italy
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May 20 - May 31, 2026
Flawless Experience
Italy
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Apr 29 - May 9, 2026
Italy 2026
Italy
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Apr 29 - May 9, 2026
Thank you for making our Italy trip memorable!
Italy
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Feb 10 - Feb 20, 2026
This was our third trip w/ Kimkim and we are happy that it worked out as we expected.
We are super thankful to Irene and Travel12 team for making our trip memorable.
All the guides, drivers were very knowledgable, respectful and we enjoyed talking to them during our tours.
Thank you!! Read more
Dear Aparna,
Thank you so much for your kind words and your wonderful review! It truly means a lot.
I am delighted to hear that you had such a memorable trip! Knowing that your experience was special is the greatest reward.
Wishing you all the very best, and I hope we will have the opportunity to work together again, perhaps to create another unforgettable journey, maybe to beautiful Greece next time.
Warmest regards,
Irene
Truly nothing was left to chance. It was a lo...
Italy
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Feb 2 - Feb 10, 2026
Truly nothing was left to chance. It was a lot but I have all week to recover! EVERY guide was incredible! Knowledgeable, engaging, fun!! No better way to experience ALL the things ! I can’t thank them enough!!
Dear Heather,
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful review. I am absolutely thrilled to hear that you had such a fantastic trip to Italy!
It was a pleasure working on your beautiful trip - and I understand that it was a lot especially while traveling during the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics and the Venice Carnival!
I hope we will reconnect soon to plan another unforgettable journey together, perhaps to a different corner of Italy, or maybe even Greece next time?
I wish you all the very best and many more happy travels ahead.
Warmest regards,
Irene
Trip to remember - Italy family trip
Italy
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Jun 14 - Jun 29, 2025
My clients were very slow with their feedback. They were blown over with the absolutely fabulous experience it was for the whole family.
The services were great and I think the highlight was the boat trip at Amalfi Thanks very much to Irene who was very patient and prompt with responses and helping fully, for the success of this trip. Thank you Kimkim Rosita Read more
Dear Rosita,
Thank you so much for sharing your clients’ wonderful feedback with me. I am truly delighted to hear that the family had such a fabulous experience in Italy! I am also very grateful for your kind words, they mean a great deal.
Thank you again for taking the time to pass along their comments.
Wishing you all the very best,
Irene
Amazing Birthday Trip!!!
Italy
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Oct 4 - Oct 11, 2025
The food and wine tour in Florence was truly a highlight! We even went back the next day to purchase more bottles 🥴.
Our... Read more
My dear Lauren,
Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful review!
I am absolutely thrilled to hear that your journey was everything you were looking for and that you had such an amazing time.
It was a pleasure to help you plan this trip, and I am here whenever you feel inspired to start dreaming about the next one, whether in another part of Italy or perhaps Greece next time?!!
All the very best,
Irene
Irene did an amazing job or organizing our tr...
Italy
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Oct 18 - Oct 26, 2025
Irene did an amazing job or organizing our trip. Travel was seamless, getting from airport to train station to scheduled tours.
I would have to say Florence was my favorite part of the trip. It was a bit more laid back and less crowded. We really enjoyed our cooking class!
Anna, our tour guide for Pompeii was wonderful. Very informative and easy to talk to.
Kathy, our guide for the Colosseum did a fantastic job. Showing us Palatine hill (which we were not even aware of) and showing us the history of the city and ending the tour with the colosseum.
Such a special and memorable trip.
Dear Susanna,
Thank you so much for your wonderful words, I truly appreciate them!
I am delighted to hear that you had a memorable trip and enjoyed your tours and experiences. I will pass along your kind words and appreciation to Anna and Kathy.
Wishing you all the very best and safe travels!
Irene
What a wonderful trip to Italy planned by Kim...
Italy
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Oct 16 - Oct 27, 2025
Dear Mary,
Thank you very much for your thoughtful review.
I’m so happy to hear that you had a wonderful trip to Italy and felt well taken care of throughout your journey.
Wishing you safe and happy travels, and I hope I will have the pleasure of planning your next adventure, perhaps to Greece!
Warm regards,
Irene
Irene was magnificent always there when we ne...
Italy
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Oct 16 - Oct 27, 2025
Dear John,
Thank you so much for your kind words, I truly appreciate them!
It was a real pleasure working with you on your wonderful trip, and I hope we will have the chance to reconnect again soon to plan your next beautiful adventure.
All the very best,
Irene
