Greece to Turkey Journey of Wonders

Upon arrival in Athens, we will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, allowing you some free time to unwind and acclimate to the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. In the afternoon, you can refer to the information boards in the hotel reception for essential details concerning the commencement of your tour. Use this initial day to relax, explore at your own pace, or wander through the city's streets, soaking up the unique blend of ancient and modern culture that Athens has to offer. 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 embark on a journey to the Peloponnese, starting with a brief stop to admire the Corinth Canal, a late 19th-century engineering achievement that cuts through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth. Our route continues through the mountainous landscape, leading us to Tripoli, the capital of the Arcadia region. Here, we pause to take in the vibrant atmosphere of Aeros Square, where you can experience the local cafes and restaurants. Our travels then take us to Olympia, where a local guide will accompany us through the Archaeological Site, included in your ticket. Olympia is renowned as the birthplace of the Olympic Games, which first took place in 776 B.C., drawing athletes from across ancient Greece and its colonies. Noteworthy sights include the Temple of Zeus, the Stadium, the Gymnasium, and the Arena.Following Olympia, we proceed to Patras, Greece's third-largest city, which boasts a striking medieval fortress and the country's largest cathedral. Near the cathedral stands the small church of St. Andrew, a revered pilgrimage site. Dinner will be provided, allowing us to conclude our day with a taste of local cuisine before resting for the evening.

On the third day of your journey, after enjoying breakfast, we will cross the remarkable Rio-Antirrio Bridge, a modern engineering feat of cable-stayed architecture, linking the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Our first destination is Nafpaktos on the Gulf of Corinth. This picturesque town, known historically as Lepanto, boasts a Venetian fortress that offers panoramic views. It was here that the Christian and Turkish fleets famously clashed, resulting in a pivotal battle during which the renowned Cervantes lost his arm. You'll have the leisure to wander around its charming harbour and explore the quaint old town at your own pace.Continuing along the Gulf of Corinth, our journey takes us to Mycenae, an ancient citadel dating back to the 18th century BC and recognised as a cornerstone of European civilisation. You will have time to enjoy lunch and explore the significant archaeological site, where you'll find insights into the grandeur of Mycenaean culture.Following this, we proceed to the formidable Acrocorinth Fortress, an archaeological marvel showcasing remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite, perched atop the highest point of the settlement. Our day concludes with a brief stop at the historic Corinth Canal before we return to Athens in the evening.

On your fourth day in Athens, enjoy the freedom to explore the city's myriad charms at your leisure. With this free day, you can delve into the cultural and historical treasures that Athens offers. Stroll through its vibrant neighbourhoods, each with a unique character, or perhaps visit one of the many world-renowned archaeological sites, such as the Acropolis or the ancient Agora. This day is yours to create lasting memories in this captivating city.

Today, we start with a panoramic tour of Athens. We'll explore the Presidential Mansion, the historic Panathenaic Stadium site of the first modern Olympic Games as well as the impressive National Library. Our journey will take us through the lively city squares and highlight some of the new infrastructure introduced for the 2004 Olympics. The tour concludes near the Acropolis, where you'll have free time to visit at your leisure (entry is not included). Later in the afternoon, we'll transfer you to the Port of Piraeus to board an overnight ferry bound for Rhodes. The ferry offers a range of facilities similar to those found on a cruise ship. You will stay in a double cabin, ensuring a comfortable night on board.

As we arrive early in Rhodes, our day kicks off with a captivating tour of this historically rich island. We'll wander through the impressive walled citadel and the atmospheric Old Town, exploring its complex tapestry of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian influences. Later, around 4:00 p.m., we'll board an express ferry for a picturesque one-hour journey to Turkey. Upon reaching Marmaris, a charming coastal town renowned for its castle, vibrant marina, and delightful fountains, well settle into our accommodation and end the day with an included dinner. Please note, the ferry service between Rhodes and Marmaris is subject to change and may not operate daily outside of the summer season, which may necessitate adjustments to our itinerary.

We begin our day in Marmaris and head to the scenic town of Dalyan, situated along a charming navigable river. Here, we include a one-hour boat excursion to see the remarkable Lycian Rock Tombs, carved into the cliffs with fascinating history. Our boat journey continues to a large lake where you have the opportunity to relax at the hot springs. Opt to take a refreshing swim in the warm waters or indulge yourself with a rejuvenating mud bath. There will be time to enjoy a meal at one of the inviting riverside restaurants, offering a taste of local cuisine. Following this, we travel to Antalya, a vibrant city with over a million inhabitants. As we explore, highlights include Hadrians Gate and the atmospheric Ottoman district. Dont miss the spectacular waterfall that cascades into the sea, creating a picturesque view. Dinner is included, completing a day filled with diverse experiences.

Departing from Antalya, our journey today takes us to Aspendos, where we will explore a remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre, recognised for its exceptional architecture. We then travel to Side, offering you the opportunity to enjoy the striking sight of the Temple of Apollo by the sea. There will be time to wander around the vibrant port and bustling streets of this charming town. Continuing through captivating landscapes, we will traverse the Taurus Mountains, their peaks soaring over 3,500 metres and often topped with snow. In Karaman, we'll take a moment to view the town's fortress from the outside. Our day ends with our arrival in the enchanting region of Cappadocia, where dinner awaits us in Nigde.

Today, we will delve into the mesmerising region of Cappadocia, celebrated for its otherworldly landscapes, ancient churches, and unique villages carved into the rock. Our day begins with a visit to the Gumusler Monastery, a captivating 7th-century underground monastery adorned with some of the most exquisite Byzantine frescoes in Turkey. From there, we will explore the underground city of Kaymakli, once capable of sheltering up to 30,000 people. Our adventure continues in Uchisar, where we will admire the stunning views from this natural fortress. Following lunch, the Greme Valley awaits, and its open-air museum will enchant us with its remarkable rock-cut churches (tickets included). We will conclude the day's exploration with a stay in Avanos, where dinner will be provided.

On day ten of our journey, we explore the far reaches of Cappadocia, beginning with a visit to the enchanting Ihlara Valley. Known for its refreshing waters and rich history, this valley is home to rock-carved churches and unique villages. Our adventure continues with a visit to a 13th-century caravanserai, a testament to the regions storied past as a hub for travellers and traders. In Konya, we delve into the spiritual with a visit to the Mevlana Mausoleum, where the mystic poet Rumi and his Dervish order are celebrated. Dinner is included, and in the evening, you might choose to witness a mesmerising dervish dance performance at the local cultural centre.

Today, we'll take a leisurely drive along a picturesque route situated between beautiful lakes, arriving at the charming town of E?irdir. Known for its historic town walls and serene mosques, E?irdir offers you the perfect backdrop for a relaxing lunch. Following our time here, we'll continue to the fascinating area of HierapolisPamukkale. Renowned for its mineral-rich waters, you'll witness the ethereal beauty of the 'Cotton Castle' terraces formed by these natural springs (entry included). Dinner will be provided, offering a delightful close to a day filled with stunning natural and historical sights.

Our day begins with a journey to the ancient city of Ephesus, the most well-preserved site of its kind in Asia Minor. Once home to a thriving population of a quarter of a million people, Ephesus offers a mesmerizing glimpse into early urban life. We will explore its impressive ruins, as well as the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John, with entrance fees covered. Following this, we'll travel to Kusadasi, a bustling coastal city known for its vibrant atmosphere and commerce, highlighted by a quaint castle. Dinner will be included. Please note: If travelling during the high season from May to October, accommodation will be in Izmir instead of Kusadasi. In this case, we will proceed directly to Izmir after exploring Ephesus, bypassing Kusadasi. Upon arrival in Izmir, we will enjoy a short panoramic tour of the city, which is beautifully situated along the Aegean coast. On the following day, as we make our way to Istanbul, we'll break our journey for lunch in the traditional town of Balikesir.

Today, we will journey to Izmir, Turkey's third-largest city, renowned for its modern and Westernised charm. Our guide will provide a brief tour of this vibrant metropolis, showcasing its bustling atmosphere. From Izmir, we'll head inward, stopping for lunch before continuing to Bursa, Turkey's fourth-largest city. Bursa holds a rich tapestry of history, with its centre designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will find traditional commercial areas, historical mosques, religious schools, and public baths. Not to be missed is the acclaimed Green Mosque. Our day will conclude as we arrive in the dynamic city of Istanbul by evening.

Today, we embark on a captivating sightseeing tour of Istanbul, beginning with a visit to the grand Sleymaniye Mosque, the largest in the city. We'll then explore the ancient city walls and take in the views over the Golden Horn, a natural harbour steeped in history. Our journey continues through the bustling fishing district, and we'll stop to admire the exterior of the iconic Hagia Sophia, once a cathedral and later a mosque. The highlight of the morning is a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the former administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire, where we can wander through its magnificent courtyards and observe its opulent pavilions.In the afternoon, you'll have free time to discover more of this sprawling city that bridges Europe and Asia. As the day draws to a close, we'll provide a transfer to Taksim, Istanbul's lively commercial hub. Here, you can choose to savour a meal at one of its many diverse restaurants, experience the charm of the old tram, or perhaps visit the nearby Galata Tower, one of the city's most striking landmarks.

Today, we will embark on an exclusive boat trip on the Bosphorus. This two-hour journey offers a unique perspective of Istanbul as it meanders through the strait connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, effectively dividing the city between its European and Asian sides. As we navigate the bustling waters, you'll observe a range of activities amid a vibrant flotilla of vessels. We'll pass beneath the impressive bridges linking the two continents and take in views of the Sultans palaces, charming traditional wooden houses, and striking examples of Ottoman architecture. After our scenic cruise, well return to central Istanbul, where youll have free time to further explore the city at your own pace.

Following breakfast, our enriching journey concludes, leaving you with an abundance of cherished memories from your time in Istanbul.