A great introductory tour to showcase the diversity of Turkey and Greece. Compare ancient sites in the capitals of Istanbul and Athens, experience seaside towns on both sides of the Mediterranean in Kusadasi and Santorini, and sample the culinary delights of both captivating countries.
Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul
Transfer to your hotel on arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Istanbul
Tour this exotic city that spans both Europe and Asia, visiting the mesmerising Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome, St Sophia, vast Topkapi Palace and the 6th century Basilica underground cistern.
Day 3: Istanbul – Gallipoli
One of the most emotionally touching places in Turkey, visit the WWI Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove and other commemorative sites. Journey to Guzelyali and check in to your accommodation.
Day 4: Gallipoli – Kusadasi
This morning, step back in time at Troy, home of the famed Trojan Horse. Tour the magnificent acropolis of Pergamum with its impressive temples and library, which made Pergamum a renowned cultural and political centre in its time. Travel on to the seaside town of Kusadasi.
Day 5: Ephesus
Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre. Also stop by a carpet village to learn how this age-old tradition came about and what determines a carpet’s value.
Day 6: Kusadasi – Samos/Mykonos
Leaving Turkey, take a ferry to Samos and depending on ferry schedules; head straight for Mykonos or spend a day exploring lush-green Samos. Either way you’ll get an opportunity to experience relaxing life on a Greek Isle.
Day 7: Mykonos
Spend the day on the beach or take an optional day trip to the neighbouring island of Delos. This Mecca of Ancient Greece is today an island-wide open air museum.
Day 8: Mykonos – Ios
Revitalize with an early morning swim and wander the charming white-washed narrow alleyways of Mykonos Town before an afternoon ferry to Ios.
Day 9: Ios – Santorini
Rise today and head for the famed beaches on Ios. Explore the picturesque old village of Chora or laze in the sun before an afternoon ferry to Santorini.
Day 10: Santorini
Take an optional boat trip in the world's biggest volcanic crater above sea level. Visit the active volcano, swim in the warm thermal waters and take a therapeutic mud bath for a relaxed day.
Day 11: Santorini – Athens
Soak up the sun on the black sand beaches before boarding an afternoon ferry to the mainland, and Greece’s capital.
Day 12: Athens
Your tour concludes after breakfast.
