From Istanbul to Athens Odyssey

Welcome to your tour! Upon arrival in Istanbul, we will transfer you to your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy some free time. In the afternoon, please check the information boards at the hotel reception for details regarding the start of your tour. 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 our second day in Istanbul, we commence with a panoramic tour of this remarkable city straddling two continents. Our exploration will include a visit to the grand Sleymaniye Mosque, the largest in Istanbul, offering a glimpse into the city's rich architectural heritage. We'll also take in sights of the ancient city walls, the Golden Horn, and the lively fishing district, and well have the opportunity to admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia.As the afternoon unfolds, we will transfer you to Taksim, the bustling heart of Istanbul's commercial activity. Here, you can savour a meal at one of its diverse restaurants and perhaps enjoy a ride on the charming vintage tram that traverses the district. For those keen on further exploration, a visit to the nearby Galata Tower is an alternative option.

Our day begins with a fascinating visit to Topkapi Palace, once the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire, known for its magnificent courtyards and intricate pavilions entrance is included in the tour. Following this, we embark on a two-hour cruise on the Bosphorus, a strait that beautifully divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia. Our cruise, aboard a private vessel, will provide captivating views of the vibrant waterways filled with diverse vessels. We will glide beneath the impressive bridges connecting two continents while passing the majestic Sultan's palaces, traditional wooden homes, and Ottoman architectural gems. After disembarking in Istanbuls Asian side in the Uskudar district, we journey onwards to the Anatolian Peninsula, arriving in Ankara just in time for a delightful dinner, which is included.

Following breakfast, our exploration begins in Ankara, Turkey's dynamic capital, home to over 5 million residents and a rich cultural tapestry. Here, you have the opportunity to marvel at the Mausoleum of Ataturk, a significant national monument, and wander through the ancient Ankara Castle, which dates back to the 8th century BC. Our visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is included, providing a fascinating glimpse into the diverse cultures that have shaped Turkey over millennia.After our time in Ankara, we will make our way towards Cappadocia. En route, we pause at the scenic Salt Lake for lunch, where you can take in its stunning vistas. Our journey continues with a visit to Hacibektas, an esteemed pilgrimage site. Remember to observe the dress code and maintain silence during your visit, as we pay our respects at the mausoleum of Hacibektas, a revered 13th-century Sufi mystic. We conclude our day in Nevsehir, arriving in time for an included dinner, ready to experience the wonders of Cappadocia the following day.

Today, we fully immerse ourselves in the remarkable region of Cappadocia, celebrated for its otherworldly landscapes, ancient churches, and troglodyte villages. Our exploration begins at the Greme Valley, where well wander through the open-air museum and admire the fascinating rock-cut churches admission is included. We continue to Uchisar, known for its natural fortress, before venturing into the underground city of Kaymakli, which once sheltered up to 30,000 people. As we journey back to Avanos, well pause at Pasabag, also known as the Fairy Chimneys, to enjoy a walk through this stunning natural wonder. You'll have some time to yourself before we conclude the day's adventures. Dinner is included.

We begin our adventure at the far edge of Cappadocia, exploring the stunning Ihlara Valley, renowned for its tranquil streams and fascinating rock-cut churches and villages. These ancient carved dwellings offer a glimpse into a world from centuries past. Our journey continues as we visit a 13th-century caravanserai, reflecting the region's historic importance as a hub of trade and travel. In Konya, we'll explore the Mevlana Mausoleum, a significant location dedicated to the revered poet and mystic Rumi. Here, we delve into the fascinating history of the Dervish order, understanding its cultural and spiritual significance. Dinner is included, providing a perfect end to our explorations. For the evening, we suggest joining a captivating dervish dance performance at the cultural centre for an enriching cultural experience.

Today, we will embark on a picturesque drive through Turkey's lake district, reaching the charming town of E?irdir, nestled by a large lake. Known for its historic walls and mosques, youll have the opportunity to savour a leisurely lunch while taking in the scenic beauty. After our stop in E?irdir, well continue to Hierapolis-Pamukkale, where the stunning natural terraces, often referred to as the Cotton Palace, await. These mineral-rich formations have become one of Turkey's iconic sights. Dinner is included to end your day delightfully.

Today, we will journey to Ephesus, a remarkably preserved ancient city that once housed a vibrant population of 250,000 around two millennia ago. Our exploration will take us to the House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John, as well as the notable ruins of Ephesus itself all admissions are included. Afterwards, we will proceed to Kusadasi, a lively coastal town known for its bustling shops and charming little castle. Dinner will be provided, ensuring a relaxed evening after a day of exploration. During the high season, from May to October, we may stay in Aydin instead of Kusadasi. In such cases, after visiting Ephesus, there will be time for a short panoramic tour of Kusadasi before continuing to Aydin, offering a glimpse of this vibrant area.

Today, we'll set off early to discover one of Turkeys natural wonders, Lake Bafa. Here, you'll have a chance to take in its tranquil beauty and serene landscapes. Our journey then takes us to Bodrum, a breathtaking city rooted in Greek origin, known for its impressive fortress. In Bodrum, you can explore its captivating streets, bustling with life, or perhaps visit the marina to admire the boats. After enjoying some free time and lunch, we'll continue to Marmaris, another scenic coastal destination. Marmaris is celebrated for its charming castle, bustling pier, and inviting fountainsperfect for a leisurely evening stroll before settling down for an included dinner. Please note, during the busy summer months, we might stay in nearby Mugla instead of Marmaris.

This morning, we will set off early towards Greece and board the express ferry to Rhodes, a journey taking approximately an hour. Upon arrival, we will go through the routine border-crossing procedures. Once we've reached Rhodes, you will enjoy a tour of the city's remarkable walled city and historic quarter, offering a vivid tapestry of cultural influences ranging from Greek and Roman to Byzantine, Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian. In the afternoon, you'll have some free time to explore this fascinating island at your leisure. Please be aware that the ferry schedule between Rhodes and Marmaris is subject to frequent changes and does not operate daily, except during the summer months, which may require adjustments to this part of the itinerary.

Today, our adventure begins with a departure from Rhodes city for an included excursion around the island. Our first stop is Filerimos, perched on a hill, where you can visit its serene monastery set amidst stunning landscapes. We then continue to Lindos, where you have the opportunity to explore its imposing fortress and Acropolis, which offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. In Lindos, you can wander through its charming, whitewashed streets, relax on one of the idyllic beaches, or perhaps even opt for a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis. After lunch, we will return to Rhodes city, where you'll have some time at your disposal to explore further. In the evening, we will arrange your transfer to the airport for a flight to Crete. Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel in Heraklion. Please note that direct flights between Rhodes and Crete are limited and subject to change; sometimes the flight may take place on Friday morning or involve a stopover in Athens.

Today, we will embark on a journey along the Cretan coastline towards the island's western reaches. Our first destination is Rethymno, a picturesque seaside town with Venetian roots, renowned for its striking medieval castle. Afterwards, we'll proceed to Chania, a captivating city rich in history and culture its impressive fortress and grand mansions stand as reminders of a past influenced by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks. Our exploration of these charming locales will culminate with our return to Heraklion later in the day.

Today, we will set off on an excursion to the Palace of Knossos, the heart of Minoan culture which laid the groundwork for Greek civilisation some 4,000 years ago. Your admission and a guided tour of this iconic archaeological site are included, immersing you in the rich history of this ancient palace complex. Moving on from Knossos, our journey takes us through Crete's towering mountain range towards the Libyan Sea, where we arrive at Agia Galini. This picturesque town, known for its labyrinthine streets, quaint fishing port, and lively taverns, offers a perfect setting for lunch and, should you wish, a dip in the refreshing sea. We'll make our return to Heraklion by the end of the day. Please note that from November to April, due to the seasonal closure of businesses, our destination will shift to the beautiful town of Matala, celebrated for its stunning beach and the distinctive cliffs adorned with ancient carved caves.

We will journey along the eastern coast of Crete today, starting with a visit to the charming town of Kritsa. Here, we'll explore the Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church renowned for its beautiful frescoes, with admission included. Our next stop is Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town known for its natural harbour. You'll have some time to wander through its streets and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Following Agios Nikolaos, we will continue to Elounda, a former city-state now a popular tourist destination. From here, we'll embark on a boat trip to Spinalonga Island, where we'll visit its Venetian fortress, which later served as a leper colony. After exploring the island, we will return by boat and travel back to Heraklion for our accommodation.

On the morning of our fifteenth day, we will set off from Heraklion's port on a high-speed ferry bound for the mesmerising island of Santorini, with our arrival slated for between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. Once on the island, we will take a scenic bus ride to the enchanting town of Oia, famed for its dazzling white streets, breathtaking views from the cliffs, and quaint windmills. There, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and explore at your leisure. Following this, we will make our way to Fira, Santorini's charming capital. For those interested, there is an option to descend to the port by cable car or donkey to witness the cruise ships gracing the harbour. In the afternoon, we will return to the port to catch a high-speed ferry departing around 3:15 p.m., heading back to Athens with an anticipated arrival around midnight. Please note that from November to mid-April, this ferry service is unavailable and the journey from Heraklion to Athens will be made by plane instead.

In the morning, we will set off on a panoramic tour of Athens, where we'll acquaint ourselves with the modern cityscape, including a visit to the historic Panathenaic Stadium and the Royal Palace. Later, you'll have some free time to explore Athens at your own pace. You might wish to delve deeper into its rich historical sites, indulge in local cuisine, or simply meander through the charming streets, soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant city.

After breakfast, our tour concludes, marking the end of our adventure. We hope you depart with cherished memories of an unforgettable journey.