Turkey's Charm and Greece's Stunning Beauty: The Best of Both...

Athens

Arrival in Athens

Arrive at your convenience and start soaking in the rich culture of this renowned city.

For the best experience, we suggest arriving a day or two early to explore Athens fully.

There are no scheduled activities until the evening, when you'll gather for a welcome meeting.

Welcome Moment: Meet Your Tour Leader and Group

This is your chance to connect with your Tour Leader and fellow travelers, getting to know more about your exciting itinerary. After the meeting, consider joining the group for a local meal. Don’t forget to check the lobby notice or ask at reception for the official meeting time and location.

Optional Activities - Day 1

Visit Syntagma (Constitution) Square

Duration: 30m - 1h

Cost: Free

Explore the heart of Athens at this central square, surrounded by significant sights and charming neighborhoods. Built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace, Syntagma Square is perfect for admiring the architecture, grabbing a coffee, or watching the ceremonial changing of the guards, known as the Evzones.

National Archaeological Museum

Cost: €12 per person

Dive into ancient history at one of the world’s most impressive museums, housing invaluable artifacts from Greece's past. Marvel at stunning sculptures, intricate vases, and remarkable metalworks that showcase the brilliance of ancient Greek civilization.

Ancient Agora Visit

Cost: €8 per person

Step back in time at this historic site, once the bustling marketplace of ancient Athens. The Agora was the center of political, cultural, and social life, where great minds like Socrates and Plato would engage in discussions. Explore the ruins and imagine the vibrant exchanges that took place here.

Athens

Embark on a guided walking tour through the vibrant streets of Athens, culminating at the magnificent Parthenon and Acropolis. Along the way, pause at Shedia Home, a local non-profit café, for a refreshing drink. Spend your afternoon delving deeper into the city’s rich history—consider visiting the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. As the day winds down, join a local chef for a cooking class, where you’ll create and savor a delightful dinner from your own culinary creations.

Athens Walking Tour

Duration: 3h - 4h

Experience the lively Plaka neighborhood on this guided walking tour. Stroll through charming cobblestone streets filled with shops and cafes, while learning about Athens’ incredible history and the legacy of the Greek Empire. The tour concludes at the breathtaking Acropolis.

Your G for Good Moment: Visit to Shedia Home

Take a moment to relax at Shedia Home, a café that provides employment and purpose to individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. Enjoy a beverage while a guide shares insights about Greece’s recent financial crisis and how initiatives like Shedia are vital for the community. Your visit supports their programs, including a café, art initiative, and magazine dedicated to uplifting the community.

Guided Visit of Acropolis and Parthenon

Duration: 2h

Explore the most iconic of Athens’ hills, the Acropolis. Marvel at the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. Despite its age, this architectural masterpiece continues to embody the ideals of harmony and balance that define Classical Greek architecture.

Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class in Athens

Join a local chef for an engaging cooking class, where you'll learn the secrets of authentic Greek cuisine while preparing a delicious meal to share.

Optional Activities - Day 2

Ancient Agora Visit

Cost: €8 per person

Wander through the heart of modern Athens at the Ancient Agora, once the bustling marketplace of the ancient world. This site was the focal point for political, cultural, and social life, frequented by great philosophers like Socrates and Plato.

Acropolis Museum Visit

Duration: 1h - 3h

Visit the stunning Acropolis Museum to view artifacts and artworks uncovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25,000 square meters of exhibit space, the museum is as architecturally striking as the artifacts it houses, featuring impressive views of the Acropolis from its upper floors.

Visit Syntagma (Constitution) Square

Duration: 30m - 1h

Cost: Free

Explore Syntagma Square, surrounded by significant sights and neighborhoods. Built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace, it’s an ideal spot to admire the architecture, enjoy a coffee, or witness the ceremonial changing of the guards, known as the Evzones.

National Archaeological Museum Visit

Cost: €12 per person

Delve into the rich history of Greece at the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the country’s most important artifacts. The collection includes exquisite sculptures, vases, and metalworks, making it one of the world’s most impressive museums.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Dinner

Athens

Optional Activities - Day 3

Meteora Sunset Tour

Cost: €30 per person

Immerse yourself in the captivating stories and legends of Meteora with a local guide. This tour includes a visit to one of the six active monasteries, specifically the Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary, where you can appreciate the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. As you explore, you’ll discover some of the most panoramic viewpoints in the area. The tour culminates in a breathtaking sunset, witnessed from a magical vantage point high atop the Meteora rocks, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Meteora

Meteora

Enjoy a full free day to explore the breathtaking Meteora region at your own pace. You can choose to visit the magnificent mountaintop monasteries by bus or opt for the Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour for a guided experience on foot.

Free Time

Take advantage of this day to discover the stunning landscape of Meteora. If you’re feeling adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and set out on the local trails to explore the monasteries and the natural beauty surrounding them.

Optional Activities - Day 4

Guided Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour

Distance: 8 km

Join a local guide as you trek along the ancient paths once traveled by the first monks. Your adventure begins at the Megalou Meteorou Monastery, perched dramatically atop a towering rock formation. After soaking in the views, you can choose to hike to Varlaam Monastery, accessible via 195 steps and renowned for its stunning vistas and intricate frescoes. If time allows, finish your hike at the lesser-known Saint Nikolai Monastery, equally beautiful and serene, before making your way back to Kalambaka.

Natural History Museum of Meteora

Duration: 1h - 2h

Cost: €5 per person

Visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora, located just a short distance from the city center. With over 300 exhibits, this museum showcases the rich biodiversity of the region, featuring mammals, birds, and local flora and fauna.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Meteora to Delphi

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a journey to Thermopylae, where you’ll visit the Information Centre to delve into the historic battle that shaped modern Greece. Continue your adventure to Delphi, enjoying an orientation walk before exploring the ancient site with a knowledgeable local guide. Spend your evening at leisure, discovering the charming town or relaxing in a café while taking in the stunning valley views.

Private Vehicle:

Meteora to Thermopylae

Duration: 2h | Distance: 155 km

Settle into your private bus and enjoy the scenic ride as you travel toward Thermopylae.

Thermopylae and Information Center Visit

Duration: 45m

Explore the Thermopylae site and its Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the legendary Battle of Thermopylae—a pivotal moment in ancient Greek history. Discover how the valiant Spartan warriors stood against the Persian invasion in 480 BC through engaging multimedia presentations and fascinating artifacts.

Private Vehicle:

Thermopylae to Delphi

Duration: 2h 15m | Distance: 80 km

Relax and take in the views as you continue your journey to Delphi in your private vehicle.

Delphi Orientation Walk

Duration: Brief

Upon arrival, join your Tour Leader for a short orientation walk through the ancient city, then enjoy a free evening to explore at your own pace.

Ancient Delphi Tour

Duration: 3h - 3h 30m

Discover the wonders of ancient Delphi, nestled at the base of Mount Parnassos. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to remarkable structures, including treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, a hippodrome, and the iconic Temple of Apollo.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Delphi to Náfplio

Travel to the picturesque town of Náfplio, with a stop at the impressive Corinth Canal along the way. After a brief orientation walk, enjoy the evening wandering the charming cobblestone streets at your leisure. For a breathtaking view, consider climbing the Acronafplia fortress.

Private Vehicle:

Delphi to Corinth Canal

Duration: 3h

Settle in for a comfortable ride in your private bus as you journey toward the Corinth Canal.

Corinth Canal Visit

Duration: 30m

Take a moment to marvel at the Corinth Canal, an impressive feat of engineering that connects the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf. Capture some photos and learn about its historical significance.

Private Vehicle:

Corinth Canal to Náfplio

Duration: 1h 30m

Continue your scenic journey in the private vehicle to Náfplio.

Orientation Walk in Náfplio

Duration: 30m - 1h

Join your Tour Leader for a brief orientation walk through Náfplio. Discover key locations such as supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs to help you navigate the town. For a deeper dive, consider an official guided tour later.

Free Time in Náfplio

Lose yourself in the enchanting narrow streets of the old town, filled with delightful sights, sounds, and smells. Explore the town at your own pace and enjoy its charm.

Optional Activities - Day 6

Bourtzi Castle

Cost: €4 per person

Take a short ferry ride to this Venetian fortress situated off the coast of Náfplio. Explore the castle’s rooms and enjoy stunning views of the town from the water.

Archaeological Museum

Duration: 1h - 2h

Cost: €6 per person

Housed in one of Náfplio's best-preserved Venetian buildings near Syntagma Square, the museum features a fascinating collection of artifacts from the Argolis region, including a bronze set of armor from the Mycenaean era.

War Museum

Duration: 1h - 2h

Cost: €6 per person

Discover the history of Náfplio through the lens of the Greek Revolution, the Macedonian Struggle, the Balkan Wars, and more at the War Museum, located in the building of the First Academy.

Acronafplia Fortress Visit

Duration: 2h - 3h

Cost: Free

Climb to the top of the Acronafplia fortress for spectacular views over the bay, Argos, and the Saronic Gulf.

Palamidi Fortress Visit

Cost: €8 per person

Explore the Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the late 1600s. Challenge yourself to climb the 999 (or 913, depending on who you ask) steps from the town to the fortress. The panoramic views over the Argolic Gulf and city make the effort worthwhile.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Náfplio to Athens

Enjoy a final day of free time in Náfplio to explore the town or venture to nearby ancient sites. You might choose to visit Epidavros, known for its remarkable theater, or the iconic site of Mycenae, famous for its impressive ruins and treasury. In the late afternoon, you’ll transfer to Athens for the night.

Free Time in Náfplio

Take advantage of your time to wander the charming streets of Náfplio or visit nearby landmarks at your own pace.

Private Vehicle:

Náfplio to Athens

Duration: 2h 30m | Distance: 140 km

Settle into your private vehicle for a comfortable ride back to Athens, taking in the scenic views along the way.

Optional Activities - Day 7

Epidavros Visit

Cost: €12 per person

Travel to Epidavros, one of Greece’s most celebrated ancient sites. Here, you can explore a massive, well-preserved theater renowned for its astonishing acoustics, as well as the remains of a significant medical sanctuary. Note that transportation is not included, and you will need to take a taxi for the round trip.

Mycenae Site Visit

Duration: 1h - 2h

Cost: €12 per person

Discover the famous Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with spectacular ruins and the impressive treasury. Once a thriving center of Greek civilization, Mycenae is steeped in history, connected to the legendary tales of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey. As with Epidavros, transportation costs are not included; a taxi is required for the visit.

Tiryns Site Visit

Cost: €8 per person

Explore the lesser-known but fascinating site of Tiryns, located just outside Náfplio. Alongside Mycenae, Tiryns is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was first excavated in 1831 by German archaeologists.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Athens to Istanbul

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight from Athens to Istanbul, Turkey. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax and acclimate to your new surroundings.

In the evening, gather with newly-joining group members for an optional dinner, where you can share your experiences and start exploring Istanbul’s vibrant culinary scene.

Transportation:

Flight: Athens to Istanbul

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Istanbul/Çanakkale

Set off from Istanbul and take a guided tour of Gallipoli, including ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and

Lone Pine. Continue on to the harbour town of Çanakkale for the night.

Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the

same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.

It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the

crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.

Private Vehicle

Istanbul – Gallipoli Peninsula4h260km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Gallipoli Battlefields Guided Tour

Gallipoli Peninsula2h30m-3h

Visit this moving and beautiful site, a great complement to any trip to Turkey, even for those not familiar

with the Battle of Gallipoli. Tour the grounds to see ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine.

Learn how the Turks fought off the numerically superior, but badly commanded, Allied forces who were

forced to withdraw nine months later; this battle holds special significance for Australians and New

Zealanders, as both nations lost many soldiers.

Ferry

Gallipoli Peninsula – Çanakkale19m

Take a ferry from Gallipoli across to Çanakkale City Center.

Meals included: Breakfast

Çanakkale to Ayvalık and Bergama

Today, embark on a journey filled with history and local culture. Begin with a guided visit to the legendary city of Troy before heading to the charming coastal town of Ayvalık. There, you'll have the opportunity to explore a women's handicraft shop that supports local artisans. If you’re up for it, consider enjoying a half-day boat trip along the picturesque coastline.

Private Vehicle:

Çanakkale to Troy

Duration: 45m

Settle in as you enjoy the scenic drive to Troy.

Troy Visit

Duration: 1h - 2h

Explore the historic ruins of Troy, made famous by Homer’s Iliad and more recently brought to life in films. Once considered a myth, the ruins were discovered in the mid-19th century, revealing the legacy of this ancient city. Don't forget to snap a photo with the iconic Trojan horse!

Private Vehicle:

Troy to Ayvalık

Duration: 2h 30m

Relax and take in the views as you continue your journey to Ayvalık.

Your G for Good Moment: Çöp(m)adam Visit

Visit the G Adventures-supported Çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperative, where all products are made from recycled materials. Your purchase helps support local women, contributing to a project that has empowered over 500 artisans.

Private Vehicle:

Ayvalık to Bergama

Duration: 1h - 1h 30m

Enjoy the scenic ride as you head toward Bergama.

Optional Activities - Day 9

Ayvalık Boat Tour

Duration: 2h - 3h

Cost: 60-600 TRY per person

Charter a small boat from the harbor to explore secluded bays, discover nearby islands, and relax in the beautiful turquoise waters. Enjoy refreshments on board as you soak up the sun. Prices vary depending on the season and group size.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bergama to Selçuk

Start your day with a leisurely morning in Bergama before heading to Selçuk, your gateway to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. After arriving, you’ll have some free time to explore the charming town of Selçuk at your own pace.

Private Vehicle:

Bergama to Selçuk

Duration: 2h 30m

Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way to Selçuk.

Ephesus Visit

Duration: 2h - 3h

Once in Selçuk, embark on a fascinating tour of the ancient city of Ephesus. Walk through history as you explore the well-preserved ruins that showcase what life was like during Roman times. Marvel at the impressive theater that dominates Harbour Street, and visit the iconic Library of Celsus, beautifully reconstructed from its original pieces. Built in AD 125, this stunning structure once housed nearly 12,000 scrolls.

Free Time in Selçuk

After your visit to Ephesus, take some time to wander through Selçuk’s quaint streets. Enjoy local shops, cafés, and perhaps visit the nearby Basilica of St. John or the ancient Temple of Artemis.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Şirince and Selçuk

Today, immerse yourself in the rich local culture with visits to charming villages, historical sites, and delightful culinary experiences.

Sample Local Wine in Şirince

Free

Start your day by sampling some of the renowned local wines in Şirince. This picturesque village is famous for its fruit wines, and you might just discover a new favorite to take home!

Mosque of Isa Bey Visit

Duration: 30m - 45m

Free

Next, visit the centuries-old Isa Bey Mosque on the outskirts of Selçuk. This architectural gem is one of the oldest and most impressive structures in the region, showcasing exquisite artistry.

Şirince Village Visit

Duration: 1h - 2h

Take a stroll through scenic Şirince, a quaint Turkish-Greek village that emerged after Ephesus was abandoned. Wander the narrow streets filled with charming shops selling handicrafts, olive oil, and, of course, local wines.

Saint John's Basilica Visit

Cost: 50 TRY per person

Return to Selçuk and visit the historic Saint John's Basilica. Once a grand structure built by Justinian I in the 6th century, this site is believed to be where John the Apostle is buried, offering a glimpse into its majestic past.

Selçuk Cooking Class

Join a local restaurant for an interactive cooking class, starting at the market to gather fresh ingredients. Learn to prepare a traditional meal, including an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert (vegetarian options available). After cooking, enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created together with your classmates.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Selçuk to Pamukkale

 Today, embark on a journey to one of Turkey’s most stunning natural wonders and its ancient counterpart.

Private Vehicle:

Selçuk to Pamukkale

Duration: 4h

Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way to Pamukkale.

Hierapolis and Pamukkale Visit

Duration: 2h - 3h

Once you arrive, explore the famous white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These stunning cliffs are formed from calcium carbonate deposited by the region's 17 hot springs.

Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, perched atop the cliffs, where you’ll see impressive ruins, including large baths believed to have been used since the second century BC. Learn about the history of this unique site and the significance of the hot springs as a spa destination.

Optional Activities - Day 13

Swim in an Ancient Pool

Cost: 340 TRY per person

For a truly unique experience, take a dip in the ancient thermal pool, dating back to the second century BC. Swim among fallen marble columns and capitals from the nearby Temple of Apollo, enjoying the warm mineral-rich waters. Please note that admission is limited to two hours, so don’t forget your swimsuit if you’d like to take part in this refreshing activity!

Pamukkale to Istanbul

Prepare for an exciting day as you transition from the stunning natural wonders of Pamukkale to the vibrant streets of Istanbul.

Private Vehicle:

Pamukkale to Cardak

Duration: Approximately 1h

Settle in and enjoy the scenery as you travel to the airport.

Flight:

Cardak to Istanbul Atatürk Airport

Duration: 1h

Look out the window as you soar through the sky to Istanbul!

Private Vehicle:

Istanbul Airport to City Center

Relax and take in the sights during your transfer into the heart of Istanbul.

Istanbul Orientation Walk

Duration: 2h - 3h (3-5 km)

Join your local leader for a walking tour that highlights the rich tapestry of Istanbul. You'll visit iconic landmarks such as:

Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya): Marvel at this architectural masterpiece, once a basilica, then a mosque, now a museum.

Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent former residence of the Ottoman sultans.

Blue Mosque: Admire the stunning interior and exterior of this famous mosque, known for its exquisite tile work.

Depending on your leader's preferences, you might also stroll through the bustling Spice Bazaar or the expansive Grand Bazaar, filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas.

Free Time

After your orientation, enjoy the afternoon to explore Istanbul at your own pace. With so much to see and do, you won’t want to miss out!

Optional Activities - Day 14

Archaeological Museum

Cost: 150 TRY per person

Discover artifacts from ancient civilizations at one of the world's top archaeological museums.

Spice Bazaar Visit

Duration: 1h - 2h

Free

Immerse yourself in the fragrant world of spices, herbs, and sweets.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Cost: 450 TRY per person

Tour this lavish palace and admire its stunning architecture and gardens.

Blue Mosque Visit

Free

Explore this iconic mosque and learn about its history and significance.

Galata Tower

Cost: 250 TRY per person

Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city, especially beautiful at sunset.

Hagia Sophia Visit

Cost: 25 EUR per person

Gain insights into the history and architecture of this remarkable structure.

Basilica Cistern

Cost: 600 TRY per person

Wander through this ancient underground water storage facility and marvel at its unique columns.

Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts

Cost: 100 TRY per person

Explore exquisite carpets and artifacts from the Ottoman and Seljuk periods.

Great Palace Mosaic Museum

Cost: 60 TRY per person

Admire the stunning mosaics from the Byzantine era.

Topkapi Palace Visit

Cost: 1500-650 TRY per person

Delve into the world of the Ottoman sultans at this historic palace.

Istanbul Departure

Your adventure comes to a close, but the memories will last a lifetime! Here’s a look at what you can do today.

Depart at Any Time

You can choose to depart Istanbul at your convenience. If you're not quite ready to leave, consider extending your stay and exploring more of this vibrant city!

Optional Activity - Day 15

Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise

Duration: 8h - 10h

Cost: Check with your travel coordinator for pricing

Morning:

Your day starts with a guided walking tour of Istanbul, where you’ll explore lesser-visited neighborhoods. Stroll along the ancient city walls of Constantinople and see Tekfur Palace, known for its impressive fortifications.

Fener and Balat Districts:

Wander through these picturesque neighborhoods, famous for their colorful wooden houses and rich cultural heritage.

Lunch:

Enjoy a group lunch together, savoring local flavors and dishes.

Afternoon:

After lunch, embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise. Experience stunning views of the city skyline and Ottoman palaces from the water.

Important Notes

Your CEO will meet you at your hotel lobby at 9 AM for the tour.

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and modest clothing for visiting religious sites.

A welcome note with more details will be waiting for you at the reception upon your arrival.

Meals Included: Breakfast