16 Days
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English
Explore Greece and Turkey: A 16-Day Historical, Cultural, and Aesthetic Journey
Embark on an engaging 16-day expedition through the renowned landmarks and breathtaking landscapes of Greece and Turkey. Commence in Athens, where one will investigate ancient wonders such as the Acropolis before unwinding on the idyllic islands of Mykonos and Santorini. Experience the allure of Rhodes prior to traversing to Turkey, where historical significance is palpable in Ephesus and Pamukkale.
Revel in the enchanting terrains of Cappadocia, characterized by its fairy chimneys and subterranean cities, and conclude your journey in the dynamic city of Istanbul, which boasts the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and stunning vistas of the Bosphorus.
This memorable itinerary presents an impeccable combination of relaxation, guided excursions, and optional activities such as hot air balloon rides, opulent cruises, and cultural workshops.
Experience the best of both worlds with this extraordinary tour!
Welcome to Athens. Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you will be greeted by our airport representative, who will hold a sign with your name. You will then be transported to your hotel in a private van. Subsequently, you will have a free day to explore Athens at your leisure.
Note:Meeting our representative at the airport: details will be provided during the booking process.
Overnight in Athens.
After breakfast, we complete the hotel checkout process. Then, you will be picked up for a visit to one of the world's oldest cities, where you’ll explore both ancient and modern Athens during this comprehensive tour. Our first stop will be Syntagma Square, where we’ll see the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, and the National Library.
Next, we’ll proceed to the Prime Minister's Residence (Presidential Palace), guarded by the colorful Evzones, and the Zappeion (conference and exhibition hall). We’ll pass by the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, and make a brief stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first Olympic Games in 1896, before finally arriving at the Acropolis to visit the Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Parthenon, and Erechtheion with its Porch of Maidens. Following this, we will enjoy a museum tour with a pleasant walk past Herodion and the Theatre of Dionysus to the new Acropolis Museum.
Overnight in Athens.
At 5:30 a.m., you will be picked up and transferred to Piraeus Port, where you will depart on the morning ferry to Mykonos at 7:15 a.m. The expected arrival time is 11:00 a.m., after which you will be picked up and transferred to their hotel. The afternoon is designated for leisurely activities.
Overnight in Mykonos.
Delight in the stunning scenery, charming boutiques, and cozy eateries of Mykonos.. Overnight in Mykonos.
OPTIONAL
Five Senses Tour-Unleash Your Senses in Greece
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Mykonos, where sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell come alive! Discover the island's rich tapestry through our immersive five-sense experience. Journey through iconic landmarks. Touch the fabrics using the ancient technique of “Argalios” carpet weaving. Indulge in various aromas of fresh Greek breadmaking. Savor the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine while enjoying the captivating melodies of live Greek music. Explore the fragrant botanical wonders of the countryside. Let us awaken your senses and create unforgettable memories.
Following breakfast and the hotel check-out, you will be picked up at approximately 12:30 p.m. and taken to the port for the 14:45 ferry to Santorini, arriving at 17:25. You will then be picked up from the port and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Santorini.
In Santorini, comfort and relaxation await beneath the stunningly blue sky. Cherish refreshing moments under the sun or romantic evenings under the stars.
Overnight in Santorini.
OPTIONAL
Santorini Flying Dress Tour
Let the wind carry your dress as you pose against the breathtaking caldera backdrop. Choose from our selection of monotone adjustable silk dresses to capture unforgettable memories with a professional photoshoot at iconic locations like Imerovigli, Fira, and Oia. Indulge in a touch of glamour with our complimentary hair and makeup service. Book your dream photoshoot today and discover the allure of Santorini in a whole new way.
Includes professional photos and a short reel sent via email—complimentary champagne upon arrival.
Enjoy breakfast and check out before meeting in the hotel lobby for the airport transfer, timed with your domestic flight departure. The flight may route through Athens. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the hotel, where you can spend the rest of the day or evening at your leisure.
Overnight in Rhodes.
Today is your day to enjoy at your own pace—explore the charming "old town” of Rhodes, visit the Lindos region, discover other villages on the island, or simply unwind at the beach; the decision is entirely yours.
Overnight Rhodes.
Commence with a pickup from the hotel, followed by a transfer to the port. Board the ferry to Marmaris. Upon arrival in Marmaris, transfer from the port and proceed with a three-hour private drive to Kuşadası. Upon arrival in Kuşadası, check in to the hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in Kuşadası.
Ps: Ferry schedules may vary by season, so please confirm departure and arrival times with your agent.
After breakfast and check-out, you are invited to explore the magnificent ancient city of Ephesus. Our team will collect you from your Kusadasi accommodation at 09:15 AM for a brief journey to Ephesus (you can join a group or select a private tour). We will start by visiting the House of the Virgin Mary atop Bulbul Mountain, discovered in the 19th century. Catherina Emmerich, a German nun, provided a detailed description based on her visions. It is believed St. John brought Mary to Ephesus between AD 37 and 48, where she spent her final years.
Following this, we will proceed to Ephesus, known for its archaeological significance. You can observe the Odeon, Fountain of Trajan, Baths of Scholastica, Temple of Hadrian, Grand Theater, and the impressive Library of Ephesus, remaining in excellent condition with majestic columns. Walking through Ephesus feels like stepping back in time among the Romans, surrounded by stunning sights. Also in Ephesus is the Grand Theater, where St. Paul is thought to have preached, and it is the most prominent outdoor theatre of the ancient world, seating 25,000. The most significant site in Selcuk is the Temple of Artemis (Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Ephesus Artemis was a fertility goddess, depicted with eggs or multiple breasts.
Overnight in Kusadasi.
After breakfast and checking out of the hotel, you'll be transferred to İzmir Airport for your flight to Cappadocia (Kayseri or Nevsehir), depending on the season and day of the week. This may be a direct flight or one that connects through İstanbul. Upon arriving in Cappadocia, you'll be picked up and taken to the hotel.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
After breakfast, you'll be picked up for the Cappadocia Tour, starting with Devrent Valley, or 'Imagination Valley.' Although it lacks cave churches and ruins typical of Cappadocia, its fascinating landscape showcases formations resembling various animals, inviting imaginative interpretations that will surely bring laughter.
Next, we'll visit Pasabag, or Monk’s Valley, known for its mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys. The name reflects the ascetic monks who settled here in the 5th century, living in rock pillars, which they called 'stylites.'
We will then head to Avanos along the Kizilirmak (The Red River). You'll explore the old village with its picturesque stone houses, some restored, showcasing traditional Ottoman architecture and ancient motifs. A hands-on pottery workshop will be included, followed by a lunch break.
After lunch, we’ll visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, known for rock formations and rock-cut churches, enhancing your Goreme experience. Our final stop is Uchisar, giving dramatic views of Cappadocia. Take time to stroll through the town and enjoy the blend of nature and humanity. Throughout the day, you’ll have an hour to unwind, enjoy refreshments, and take in stunning panoramic views before returning to the hotel to relax there.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
OPTIONAL TOUR: Hot Air Balloon Ride
Following breakfast and the hotel checkout, depart from your accommodation to visit Red Valley, where you will explore the renowned rock-cut churches and partake in a 4-5 km walk through Gulludere Valley.
Subsequently, proceed to Cavus Village, notable for its residences and ecclesiastical structures associated with Christian clergymen. After lunch, travel to Pigeon Valley. In the afternoon, visit the Ozkonak Underground city, a site where early Christians resided in an atmosphere of fear and faith. At the conclusion of the tour, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Istanbul.
Following a one-hour flight back to Istanbul, you will be warmly welcomed by our airport representative who will be holding a sign bearing your name. You will then be conveyed to your hotel in a private van, where you will spend the night in Istanbul.
Overnight in İstanbul.
Your licensed guide will meet you at 09:30 a.m. in the lobby to take you to HIPPODROME, the sports center, featuring four monuments: the German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Walled Obelisk.
The BLUE MOSQUE, Istanbul's most famous mosque, is named for its beautiful blue Iznik tiles.
GRAND-COVERED BAZAAR features over 4000 shops in a labyrinth of streets, with specific areas for goldsmiths, carpet sellers, and Turkish arts and crafts, including hand-painted ceramics, copperware, brassware, trays, and meerschaum pipes.
Optional: Explore Turkish Carpets and Kilims, which are more than floor coverings; they are artistic representations of history and culture.
A Glimpse into the Past: Turkish carpets have a history dating back to the Seljuks and Ottomans, initially woven for warmth and later symbolizing wealth and social status. Each region in Turkey has its own unique style and weaving technique.
(Grand Bazaar closed on Sunday; visit Arasta Bazaar instead)
This half-day program can be combined with the options below for a full-day experience.
(Visits not possible on Friday due to prayer)
THE HAGIA SOPHIA, built by Constantine in the 4th century and reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th, is a remarkable architectural feat.
HAGIA IRENE CHURCH, built in the 4th century alongside Hagia Sophia, was integrated into Topkapı Palace grounds and converted into a mosque without significant structural changes. (Closed on Tuesday)
TOPKAPI PALACE, the grand residence of Ottoman Sultans from the 15th to 19th centuries, houses precious gems, jewelry, thrones, and the Holy Mantle of Sacred Relics.
Overnight in Istanbul.
A day allocated for personal leisure activities.
Overnight in Istanbul.
OPTIONAL TOURS & ACTIVITIES :
Full Day Bosphorus Tour / 8 am to 5 pm
Turkish Hamam Experience
Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus.
(Please feel free to contact your agent for optional activities.)
Following breakfast, we will take you to the Airport based on your flight schedule. Our services conclude now, and we sincerely hope to welcome you back as our guest.
Since these are not fixed group tours, we can adapt the itinerary to fit your travel dates. Some destinations, like Santorini or Mykonos, are less suitable for travel in the winter due to infrequent ferry connections and many places being closed. Therefore, certain itineraries are best for traveling between April and late October.
You may find the itineraries available here. According to your preferences, we can arrange the itineraries as either private tours or standard group tours, contingent upon feasibility. Additionally, we can combine both private and regular group programs.
As this is a customized itinerary, please provide us with your travel dates, the number of travelers, and your preferred hotel or room type. We will then prepare a quotation and respond to you promptly.
No,we do not provide visa services. If you need assistance determining whether you require a visa for Turkey or Greece, please reach out to our sales agents. They will share the list of which passports require a visa for each country.
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