Grand Voyage Istanbul to Athens
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Embark on a captivating 15-day journey from the cultural hub of Istanbul to the historic wonder of Athens. This tour offers an enchanting blend of stunning landscapes and rich heritage. Begin by exploring Istanbul's iconic sites, including the grand Sleymaniye Mosque and lively Taksim district. Glide along the Bosphorus before heading to Ankaras vibrant scene. In Cappadocia, marvel at its lunar landscapes and troglodyte villages. As you continue, experience the healing waters of Pamukkale and wander through the ancient wonders of Ephesus. Sail to Rhodes, where a tapestry of cultures awaits exploration. Finally, immerse yourself in Greece's classical treasures, from Olympia to dramatic Mycenaean ruins. An unforgettable adventure beckons!
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
15 daysHotel Rating
3-5 star hotelsStarts
IstanbulEnds
AthensMinimum age
No minimum ageMaximum age
100Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Countries
Greece, TurkeyPassengers
$3,292.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 1 / Max 65Tranportation
N/ALanguage
EnglishLanguage
EnglishRange
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Istanbul
Ankara
Cappadocia
Ihlara
Konya
Egridir
Pamukkale
Ephesus
Kusadasi
Bodrum
Marmaris
Rhodes
Rhodes - Athens Ferry
Tripoli
Olympia
Patras
Nafpaktos
Mycenae
Corinth
Athens
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Istanbul
Upon arriving in Istanbul, we will transfer you to your hotel, setting the stage for your exciting journey. You'll have some leisure time to unwind and explore your surroundings at your own pace. In the afternoon, look out for information about the start of your tour on the display boards situated at the hotel reception. This will help set the tone for your upcoming adventures. 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.
Day 2 - Istanbul
On our second day in Istanbul, we begin with a panoramic tour of this magnificent city, uniquely positioned between two continents. Our exploration will lead us to the awe-inspiring Sleymaniye Mosque, the largest mosque in Istanbul, celebrated for its grandeur and historical significance. As we continue, we'll marvel at the ancient city walls, the scenic Golden Horn, and a lively fishing district, while admiring the impressive exterior of Hagia Sophia, a stunning blend of Christian and Islamic architecture.As the afternoon wanes, well provide a transfer to Taksim, the city's bustling commercial hub known for its vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can relish the array of dining options available at various restaurants or take a nostalgic ride on the historic tram threading through the area. For an alternative experience, you might visit the nearby Galata Tower, offering panoramic views of the cityscape.
Day 3 - Istanbul - Ankara
On the third day, we'll begin with a visit to Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire's administration and renowned for its breathtaking courtyards and pavilions (admission included). Following this, we'll embark on a scenic two-hour boat tour on the Bosphorus, aboard a private vessel. This cruise offers a unique perspective as we sail along the strait that links the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, effectively dividing Istanbul into European and Asian sections. As we navigate the bustling waters, you'll experience the remarkable views of Sultan's palaces, traditional wooden houses, and exquisite examples of Ottoman architecture. Our route will take us under the dual bridges connecting Europe and Asia, before we dock on the Asian side in the district of Uskudar. From here, we continue our journey across the Anatolian Peninsula, arriving in Ankara in time for an included dinner.
Day 4 - Ankara - Cappadocia
After a hearty breakfast, we set out to explore Ankara, the vibrant capital of Turkey, with its dynamic cultural scene and population of over five million. Our first stop is the Mausoleum of Ataturk, a monumental site dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey. We then move on to the ancient Ankara Castle, which has stood since the 8th century BC, offering panoramic views of the city. Our itinerary includes entry to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, where you can delve into the diverse cultures that have shaped Turkey throughout the ages. Leaving Ankara behind, we make our way towards Cappadocia. En route, we'll pause for lunch at the stunning Salt Lake, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Our next stop is Hacibektas, a significant pilgrimage site and home to the mausoleum of Hacibektas, a 13th-century Sufi mystic. We ask you to observe the dress code and maintain silence during our visit to this tranquil sanctuary. As our day draws to a close, we'll proceed to Nevsehir, arriving in time for an included dinner.
Day 5 - Cappadocia
Our entire day will be dedicated to exploring Cappadocia, renowned for its otherworldly landscapes and ancient wonders. We'll begin our adventure in the Greme Valley, where you'll be captivated by the rock-cut churches housed within an open-air museum entry is included. Next, we head to Uchisar to admire its striking natural fortress before venturing underground in Kaymakli, an ancient city that once sheltered up to 30,000 inhabitants. On our return to Avanos, we'll pause at Pasabag, also known as the Valley of the Fairy Chimneys, for a walk amidst these stunning rock formations. Youll have some free time in the late afternoon to unwind or explore further before we conclude the day with an included dinner.
Day 6 - Cappadocia - Ihlara - Konya
Today begins with a trip to the Ihlara Valley, sitting at Cappadocia's eastern edge. Known for its cool streams and ancient rock-cut churches and settlements, this valley offers a remarkable look into the past. Our journey continues as we visit a 13th-century caravanseraian important resting place for traders and travellers along the Silk Road. We'll then head to Konya, where we explore the Mevlana Mausoleum, the final resting place of Rumi, offering insights into the history of the Dervish order. Dinner is included today. In the evening, we encourage you to experience a dervish dance performance at the local cultural centre, a captivating display of spiritual tradition.
Day 7 - Konya - Egridir - Pamukkale
Today, we embark on a picturesque drive between the scenic lakes, arriving in the charming town of Egridir. Known for its historic walls and mosques, Egridir offers a tranquil setting by a large lake where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure. Our journey then continues to the captivating site of Hierapolis-Pamukkale. Here, the mineral-rich waters have crafted the awe-inspiring Cotton Palace, a natural wonder you will have the opportunity to explore with tickets included in your itinerary. Dinner will be provided, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day's sights and experiences.
Day 8 - Pamukkale - Ephesus - Kusadasi
Today, we'll journey to Ephesus, a remarkably preserved ancient city that once housed 250,000 residents some two millennia ago, making it the best-preserved city from ancient Asia Minor. Our exploration will include the House of the Virgin Mary, a revered site of spiritual significance, and the Basilica of St. John. You will be captivated by the extensive ruins of Ephesus, which showcase the grandeur of its past (admission is included). Following our time in Ephesus, well proceed to Kusadasi, a vibrant coastal town. Known for its lively ambiance, Kusadasi boasts bustling shops and a quaint castle. Dinner will be included. During the high season, from May to October, we will change our accommodation to Aydin. In such cases, after our exploration of Ephesus, we will take a break in Kusadasi from late afternoon to early evening, where a panoramic tour of the city will be part of our itinerary before we continue to Aydin for the night.
Day 9 - Kusadasi - Bodrum - Marmaris
We begin our day early and travel towards the tranquil beauty of Lake Bafa, one of Turkey's natural wonders, providing a moment to soak in its serene atmosphere. Afterwards, we continue to Bodrum, a vibrant city with Greek origins known for its captivating fortifications. Here, you can choose to explore the city's remarkable castle, saunter along its bustling streets filled with visitors, or take a leisurely stroll to its scenic marina. Following lunch, our journey proceeds to Marmaris, a delightful coastal retreat famed for its castle, lively pier, and elegant fountains. Dinner is included to round off your day comfortably. Do bear in mind that during certain busy periods, particularly in summer, we might stay in Mugla, a nearby town, instead of Marmaris.
Day 10 - Marmaris - Rhodes
We begin our day early, setting off from Marmaris and travelling by express ferry to the island of Rhodes, Greece. The ferry journey takes approximately one hour and includes standard border-crossing procedures. Once in Rhodes, we'll embark on a guided exploration of the island's formidable walled city and historic quarter. This area exhibits a breathtaking blend of cultural influences, from ancient Greek and Roman to Byzantine, Knight of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian periods.In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to meander through the charming streets of Rhodes at your own pace, discovering its unique character and perhaps sampling some local cuisine. Please be aware that the ferry schedule between Rhodes and Marmaris frequently changes and is less frequent outside the summer months. As a result, adjustments to this itinerary may be necessary.
Day 11 - Rhodes - Rhodes - Athens Ferry
Today, we'll set off from Rhodes city for a captivating excursion around the island. Our first destination is Filerimos, perched on a hill offering breathtaking views and home to a serene monastery nestled amid picturesque landscapes. Following this, we'll make our way to Lindos, where you'll have the chance to discover its impressive fortress and Acropolis, both providing stunning vistas of the surrounding sea. Wander through the charming, whitewashed streets of Lindos, relax on one of its beautiful beaches, or choose to take a traditional donkey ride to the Acropolis. In the evening, we'll reconvene at the port in Rhodes to board a ferry bound for Athens, concluding an enriching day on this remarkable island.
Day 12 - Rhodes - Athens Ferry - Tripoli - Olympia - Patras
We arrive in Athens-Piraeus at 7:00 a.m. and promptly disembark to begin our exploration of the Peloponnese. Our first highlight is a brief stop at the awe-inspiring Corinth Canalan impressive feat of engineering completed in the late 19th century. We continue our journey through the mountainous landscape, reaching the vibrant city of Tripoli, the capital of the Arcadia region. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll in Aeros Square, characterised by its lively cafes and restaurants.Our adventure continues as we head to Olympia, the historic birthplace of the Olympic Games, first held in 776 B.C. A local guide will accompany us as we explore the archaeological site, where you'll find the Temple of Zeus, the ancient Stadium, the Gymnasium, and the Arenaimmortal relics of Greece's athletic past, with entrance fees included.We then proceed to Patras, Greece's third-largest city, noted for its impressive medieval fortress and the imposing St. Andrew's Cathedral, the largest in the country. Adjacent to the cathedral, discover the small, yet significant church of St. Andrew, revered as a major pilgrimage site. Dinner will be provided, bringing a delightful end to the day's discoveries.
Day 13 - Patras - Nafpaktos - Mycenae - Corinth - Athens
Following breakfast, we'll traverse the impressive Rio-Antirrio bridge, a striking piece of engineering that links the Peloponnese with mainland Greece. Our journey begins with a stop in Nafpaktos, a historic town perched on the Gulf of Corinth. Known in history as Lepanto, it was here the famed naval battle took place between the Christian and Ottoman forces, a battle where Cervantes famously lost his arm. You have free time to meander its charming harbour or wander through the scenic old town lanes.We continue along the scenic route beside the Gulf of Corinth, arriving at the ancient city of Mycenae, often hailed as a cradle of European civilization. The citadel, dating from the 18th century BC, beckons with its rich historyentry is included. During your time here, you'll have time to enjoy lunch and explore at your leisure.Our adventure then leads us to the awe-inspiring Fortress of Acrocorinth, where remnants of an ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite rest on its summitadmission is covered. Before concluding our day's travel, we'll make a brief stop at the Corinth Canal, marvelling at this feat of 19th-century engineering. In the evening, we arrive in Athens, where the city awaits with its timeless allure.
Day 14 - Athens
Spend your day immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Athens at your own pace. This free day is an opportunity for you to explore and uncover the city's treasures. Whether you choose to wander through the historic Plaka district, visit the impressive Acropolis for a glimpse into ancient Greek civilisation, or relax at a local caf and watch the world go by, Athens offers a wealth of memorable experiences awaiting your discovery.
Day 15 - Athens
On the final day of our journey, we'll enjoy breakfast in Athens. This marks the end of our tour, leaving you with cherished memories of the incredible experiences and places we've explored together. Safe travels on your onward journey.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Athens
Double
Twin
Triple
Single
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Istanbul
Triple
Double
Twin
Single
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
Can't find a date that works for you?
Dates for 2027 haven't been released yet.
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