Europe
Meet Turkey and Greece
Unfold the stories of the past and embrace the beauty of the present as you explore the dreamy destinations of Turkey and Greece.
Be captivated by the beauty of Turkey and Greece, where majestic sites await your discovery. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Turkey, tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations and marveling at historical treasures. Then surrender to the calm waters of the Greek islands, where the vastness of the Aegean Sea provides a breathtaking backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime journey through these dreamy destinations. Let the stories of the past and the beauty of the present unfold as you dive into the unique charm of Turkey and Greece.
Tour Dates
Inclusions
- Led by an Access Expert
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- 4-star to 5-star hotel accommodations
- Transportation for the whole duration
- Professional local guide and driver
- Entrance fees to the attractions
- Half-board meals for the whole duration
Exclusions
- Airline travel taxes
- Personal travel insurance
- Schengen visa assistance
- Roundtrip economy airfare
Day 01: Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey! Upon arrival, get acquainted with the beautiful city of Istanbul, visiting its iconic sites, including the Hadia Sophia, the famous Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. Once you’re able to visit these landmarks, head to your hotel for check-in.
Day 02: Bosphorus - Istanbul
Savor a delightful morning cruise along the Bosphorus, treating yourself to panoramic views of the amazing cityscape. Then, in the afternoon, get ready to explore the Grand Bazaar for shopping and the vibrant Spice Bazaar. After the day’s excursion, prepare to head back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 03: Istanbul - Ankara
Take a morning drive to Ankara, where you will discover its majestic landmarks, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Here, be amazed with its Neolithic, Hittite, Urartian, and Phyrgian works of art. Then take a walk up the hill from the museum to visit the citadel. Descend from the citadel and make your way to Ulus Square, where the remnants of the Roman Temple of Augustus and Rome await exploration. Conclude your day's adventure with a visit to Anıtkabir, the grand mausoleum of Kemal Atatürk, the esteemed national hero and founder of the Turkish Republic.
Day 04: Ankara – Cappadocia – Goreme Open Air Museum
Prepare for a drive heading to Cappadocia. Once you arrive, begin your excursion with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a magnificent valley filled with rock-carved churches and monasteries. These were once inhabited by monks and revered as pilgrimage destinations during the Byzantine period. Here, be mesmerized by the intricacy of the site’s construction, together with the cave rooms and churches etched into the honeycomb landscape. The museum’s highlight is the Dark Church, which is decorated with brilliantly colored frescoes that have been carefully preserved. After the day’s insightful trip to the museum, proceed to your hotel in Cappadocia for check-in.
Day 05: Cappadocia – Love Valley – Derinkuyu - Cappadocia
Experience the famous hot balloon ride in Cappadocia today! Take in the sight of the sunrise for a breathtaking view of the landscape. After this memorable experience, explore the unique rock formations and fairy chimneys in Love Valley. Next, head to the underground city of Derinkuyu and hike the Rose Valley. After the day’s adventure, head back to your hotel in Cappadocia.
Day 06: Cappadocia - Pamukkale
Take a drive to Pamukkale, or “cotton castle” in English, after breakfast. Explore the places that make this wonderful city a must-visit at your own pace.
Day 07: Pamukkale Travertine Terraces - Hierapolis Ancient City
After breakfast, visit famous sites, including the beautiful Pamukkale Travertine Terraces, a natural thermal pool surrounded by white limestone. Then, explore Hierapolis Ancient City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading back to your hotel after a historic feast for the senses.
Day 08: Pamukkale – Ephesus – Izmir
Today, leave Pamukkale for Izmir. En route, visit Ephesus, one of the best preserved Greco-Roman cities in the country and one of the great tourist attractions in Turkey. Once you arrive here, take a guided experience to see some of its monumental jewels, such as the Library of Celsus, one of the most luxurious bibliographic archives of the Roman Empire in the Eastern Mediterranean. Continue the journey, heading to Izmir.
Day 09: Izmir – Athens
After enjoying a delightful breakfast, embark on a seamless journey to the airport for your flight to Athens. Upon reaching the vibrant city, kick off your exploration with a captivating half-day city tour. Cruise through the enchanting Syntagma Square, taking in the picturesque sights of the National Garden, Hadrian’s Arch, St. Paul’s Church, Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Catholic Cathedral, and Schliemann’s House. As you traverse the city, feast your eyes on the Athens Trilogy, featuring the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, and the National Library. Your guide will unravel the layers of Athens's rich history. Then, pause for Panathinaiko Stadium, a momentous place crafted entirely from white marble and the historic venue of the inaugural 1896 Olympic Games. Continue your journey, passing by the Zappeion and the Grand Temple of Olympian Zeus.
The day continues to unfold at the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Monument. Explore the monumental entrance to the Acropolis, the Propylae, a harmonious blend of doric and ionic architectural principles. Marvel at the small temple of Athena Nike, strategically positioned on a rocky prominence guarding the gateway to the citadel. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, adorned with its iconic Porch of Maidens. After a full-day excursion, proceed to your hotel in Athens for check-in.
Day 10: Athens – Santorini
Immerse yourself in the idyllic waters of Greece as you set sail on a scenic ferry ride to Santorini, following a delightful breakfast. Once you arrive, explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, where the iconic white-washed buildings and stunning views create a picturesque setting. Check-in at your hotel, where you will spend the night
Day 11: Santorini
The rest of the day is yours to explore the beautiful island of Santorini.
Day 12: Santorini – Athens
Prepare for your transfer to the port for your ferry ride back to Athens after breakfast. You may explore more of the beautiful city of Athens for the rest of the day.
Day 13: Athens
Following breakfast, prepare for your airport transfer, marking the end of your journey in Greece and Turkey as you board your flight back home.
Important Notes to Remember*
- An extension of your stay is possible if you wish to enjoy more. However, an additional charge, encompassing the deviation fee and the cost of the extension, will be applicable.
- If a visa is needed for any reason, we can help you process and arrange it.
- Card payments are subject to service fees.