From Athens to Mykonos Odyssey

Welcome to Athens, the gateway to your exciting adventure. As you arrive, we will arrange a transfer to your hotel, giving you some free time to settle in and start acquainting yourself with this historic city. Athens, the cradle of Western civilisation, seamlessly blends ancient history with contemporary charm. In the afternoon, you can find important information regarding the beginning of your tour on the noticeboards located at the hotel reception. Enjoy your first day of exploring and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic city. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day, we set out on a guided exploration of Athens, delving into both its historic and modern facets. Our tour of the capital introduces us to iconic sights, including the Presidential Mansion and the Panathenaic Stadium, the birthplace of the first modern Olympic Games. We also appreciate the grandeur of the National Library and the vibrant atmosphere of the city centre's squares. Venturing into neighbourhoods that have blossomed since the 2004 Olympics, we gain a sense of the city's evolution. The tour culminates at the base of the Acropolis, a testament to the classical era (please note: entry is not included). In the evening, we offer a transfer to the historical quarter of Plaka, famous for its delightful Greek tavernas and cultural folklore, where you can indulge in a truly immersive experience.

On the third day of our journey, we shall begin early, heading north from Athens towards Kamena Vourla. This charming seaside destination offers a perfect blend of serene landscapes and coastal allure, providing a delightful start to our day. Our route will take us onward to the historic Thermopylae Mountain Pass, a landmark well-known for its ancient battle site. Continuing north, we arrive in Kastraki, a quaint village nestled in picturesque surroundings, where you'll have time to enjoy lunch and take in the views of the expansive valley. Our next experience will be visiting the iconic Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its awe-inspiring monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. We include entry to one of these captivating monasteries, allowing you to fully appreciate its historical and spiritual significance. As our day draws to a close, we will proceed to Kalambaka for dinner, where you can savour local delights and unwind after a day rich in exploration.

On Day 4, we will embark on a journey through the scenic northern regions of Greece, traversing picturesque mountain landscapes en route to the Aegean Sea. Our first stop is Thessaloniki, Greeces second-largest city, where you'll have some time to explore and enjoy lunch. Known for its vibrant culture and historical significance, this city offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Post-lunch, well continue our journey by crossing into Bulgaria, entering the beautiful region of Bulgarian Macedonia. Here, we will visit Melnik, an enchanting museum town celebrated for its exquisite wine production and captivating natural surroundings. As our day winds down, well make our way to Sandanski, a delightful spa town famously recognised as the birthplace of Spartacus. We will spend the night here, with dinner included, allowing you to unwind in this charming setting.

Today, we begin with a visit to the remarkable Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its fortress-like structure and incredible forest setting. Following this, we continue our journey to Bulgarias capital, Sofia, arriving in the late morning. After enjoying lunch, we'll take you on a guided tour of this vibrant city. Among the highlights are the impressive St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Russian Church, the Mosque, and the citys elegant squares and avenues, which are indicative of Stalinist architecture. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore Sofia at your own pace and discover its unique charm.

Following breakfast, we'll proceed to the airport for our scheduled flight to Turkey. The flight time may vary, but rest assured it's included in your plan. Upon arriving in Istanbul, a transfer will take us to the hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore this fascinating city at your leisure. You can look forward to receiving detailed information about the next stage of your journey later in the afternoon, either directly from our team or via the information boards at the hotel reception.

Today, we delve into Istanbul's rich history with a city tour that takes us to the renowned Sleymaniye Mosque, the largest mosque in the city, showcasing magnificent Ottoman architecture. We'll walk along the ancient city walls and soak in the views of the Golden Horn, experiencing the dynamic energy of the local fishing district. As we admire the external grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the architectural marvel that has stood as a cathedral and a mosque over the centuries, we also get the opportunity to explore the interiors of Topkapi Palace. You'll find yourself immersed in the opulent history of the Ottoman Empire in its lavish courtyards and pavilions. In the afternoon, the time is yours to continue exploring this city that uniquely straddles two continents. As evening approaches, we'll provide a transfer to Taksim, Istanbul's bustling and lively commercial area. Here, you can savour dinner at one of its diverse eateries or hop aboard the delightful old tram. Alternatively, consider visiting the nearby historic Galata Tower for a superb city view.

Today, we will set sail on a boat trip along the Bosphorus, using a private boat for our group. This two-hour journey will take us through the famous strait connecting the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, where Istanbul straddles both Europe and Asia. As we cruise, we'll observe the bustling activity of boats around us and pass beneath the two impressive bridges that link the two continents. We'll also have the opportunity to admire the splendid views of the Sultan's palaces, traditional wooden houses, and opulent Ottoman architecture lining the shores. After returning to central Istanbul, you will have some free time to explore the city at your leisure.

On day 9, we embark on a journey from Istanbul, leaving early to head further into Turkey. Around midday, we'll arrive at Ephesus, renowned as the best-preserved ancient city of Asia Minor and, 2,000 years ago, home to a bustling population of a quarter million. Here, we'll explore key historical sites, including the Basilica of St. John, the House of the Virgin Mary, and a significant archaeological siteadmission tickets are included in your journey. Having delved into the rich history of Ephesus, we proceed to Kusadasi, a lively coastal town celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling commerce, and charming castle. We'll spend the evening in Kusadasi, with dinner included. Note that during the high season, from May to October, accommodation will be arranged in Aydin instead of Kusadasi. If this is the case, after visiting Ephesus, we'll stop in Kusadasi in the early evening for a panoramic tour of the city before making our way to Aydin.

We set off early to marvel at one of Turkeys natural gems, Lake Bafa, taking time to appreciate its tranquil beauty. Our travels then lead us to the stunning city of Bodrum, originating from ancient Greek times, where you can explore the impressive castle, stroll through the vibrant streets, or visit the bustling marina. Following lunch, we continue to the charming coastal town of Marmaris, noted for its castle, pier, and decorative fountains. Dinner is included for the evening. Please be aware that during summer months, accommodation may be arranged in the nearby town of Mugla instead of Marmaris.

On the eleventh day of your journey, well depart early towards Greece, embarking on an express ferry to the beautiful island of Rhodes. The crossing takes approximately an hour, and standard border processes will be completed on arrival. Once in Rhodes, we'll explore its remarkable walled city and historic quarter, which showcase a diverse array of cultural influences, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian heritage. The afternoon is free for you to wander and discover more of Rhodes at your own leisure. It's worth noting that the ferry schedule between Rhodes and Marmaris is subject to frequent changes and isn't available daily, except during the summer, which might necessitate adjustments to this part of your itinerary.

Today, we set off from Rhodes city on an included excursion to explore the island further. Our journey begins with a visit to Filerimos, perched on a hilltop, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its serene monastery set amidst striking scenery. We then proceed to the town of Lindos, well known for its Acropolis and fortifications, which afford spectacular views over the azure sea. As you wander through its delightful whitewashed streets, you can choose to relax on a beach or perhaps take a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis. After lunch, we return to Rhodes city where you have some free time in the afternoon to explore at your leisure. In the evening, we'll provide a transfer to the airport for your flight to Crete, arriving later in Heraklion with a transfer to your hotel. Please note that direct flight schedules between Rhodes and Crete may vary and sometimes include a stopover in Athens.

Today, we embark on an exploration of Crete's captivating western coast. Our journey begins with a visit to Rethymno, a coastal gem of Venetian origin, renowned for its medieval castle and charming old town. We then continue to the enchanting city of Chania, where historical layers unfold with an impressive fortress and stately mansions reflecting its contested past among Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and others. Our day concludes as we return to Heraklion, allowing you to reflect on the rich history and vibrant culture encountered today.

Today, we'll venture to the historic Palace of Knossos, where a guided tour will offer insight into the Minoan civilization that thrived four millennia ago. Admission is included, allowing us to fully delve into this cultural marvel. After exploring the palace, we'll continue our journey through Crete's inspiring mountain terrain, making our way southward to the Libyan Sea. Our destination is Agia Galini, a delightful town known for its labyrinthine streets, quaint fishing harbour, and inviting local taverns. Here, you'll have time for lunch and, should you wish, a refreshing swim in the sea. As the day draws to a close, we'll journey back to the capital of Crete. Please note, from November to April, due to seasonal closures, we'll visit the charming town of Matala instead, famed for its captivating beach and cliffside caves.

We will journey along the eastern coast of Crete today, beginning with a visit to the quaint town of Kritsa. Here, we will explore Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church celebrated for its stunning frescoes entry is included. Continuing our adventure, we arrive at Agios Nikolaos, a charming town with a natural harbour, where you'll have the opportunity to wander its streets and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Our next destination is Elounda, once a city-state and now a picturesque tourist retreat. From here, we'll embark on a boat trip to Spinalonga Island to explore its historical fortress, originally a Venetian stronghold that later served as a leper colony. After our exploration, we will return by boat and head back to Heraklion for overnight accommodation.

In the early hours, well head to the port to catch a high-speed ferry to the island of Santorini, arriving between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. Once there, a scenic bus ride will take us through the islands striking landscapes to Oia, renowned for its picturesque whitewashed streets, breathtaking cliffside views, and charming remnants of castle ruins and windmills. You will have time to explore the area and savour a leisurely lunch. Later, well make our way to Fira, the island's bustling capital. For those interested in further exploration, we recommend taking a boat trip to the nearby hot springs or enjoying the sunset from a traditional Mediterranean vessel.

After enjoying breakfast, we'll board a ferry bound for the enchanting island of Mykonos. Upon arrival, a transfer will be arranged to take you to your hotel. According to Greek mythology, Mykonos is the site of the epic battle between Zeus and the Titans. You'll have free time to explore at your leisure, allowing you to meander through the charming narrow streets, visit the area's iconic windmills, and discover the beauty of Little Venice.

Today is yours to fully embrace the beauty of Mykonos. After breakfast, why not take the opportunity to visit Delos, an island steeped in history as the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, considered one of the most sacred sites in Ancient Greece. Alternatively, you might prefer to unwind and soak up the sun on the renowned Paradise and Super Paradise beaches, known for their vibrant atmosphere and stunning scenery. Let your day be filled with exploration or relaxation, as you prefer.

Following breakfast, we'll make our way to the port for a ferry ride back to Athens. Our arrival at the Port of Piraeus is expected around 11:00 p.m., providing a night return to the capital.

Following breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with a wealth of cherished memories of your travels.