Experience the best of Turkey and Aegean Greece on this 11-day tour, starting in Istanbul with visits to the Spice Market, Bosphorus, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Continue through Ankara and Cappadocia to see ancient artefacts, underground cities, and fairy chimneys. Explore Pamukkale’s thermal terraces and the ruins of Ephesus, then fly to Athens to discover the Acropolis and enjoy a full-day cruise to the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, before concluding in Athens.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Arrival in Istanbul
Once you have arrived in Istanbul, you will be met and transferred to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day will be at your leisure to begin exploring the city, enjoy some shopping, or relax at a traditional Turkish café.
Please note: This tour is conducted in English. However, dependent on the mix of the group, touring may also be bilingual, in one additional language as well as English.
Overnight: Istanbul
Spice Market, Bosphorus Cruise & Istanbul Exploration
After breakfast, we will drive to the Spice Market for a shopping session, followed by some free time for you to further explore at your own pace.
Later, we will gather for a 1.5-hour Bosphorus Cruise, where we'll sail along the waterway that separates Asia and Europe. During the cruise, take in the stunning views of Istanbul, including its forests, palaces, and traditional wooden houses situated on both continents.
After our cruise, we will venture to a local restaurant for lunch. Afterward, we will visit the Sultanahmet Mosque known as the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the renowned Hagia Sophia. You will then have some free time at the Grand Bazaar before reutringing to the hotel.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast, Lunch
Topkapi Palace Visit & Transfer to Ankara
Istanbul - Ankara. This morning, after breakfast, we depart to visit Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, showcasing imperial collections, courtyards, and historic chambers. The entrance fee to the harem section is not included.
We then continue to Ankara, the modern capital of Turkey, known for its government buildings, cultural institutions, and Atatürk's Mausoleum, arriving in the early evening.
Overnight: Ankara | Breakfast, Dinner
Discover Ankara & Transfer to Cappadocia
Ankara - Cappadocia. Today, we will explore the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, where we'll encounter Neolithic and Paleolithic artifacts from the Urartu, Hatti, Hittite, and Phrygian civilizations.
Afterwards, we will visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic—a monumental complex that includes a museum and ceremonial plaza, reflecting the nation’s respect for its leader.
In the afternoon, we will embark on a journey to Cappadocia. On the way, we will have a stop to explore one of the region's largest underground cities, built by the early Christians for protection against attacks.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Cappadocia City Tour
This morning, you will have the opportunity to opt to join a hot air balloon tour. Departing early in the morning, this experience offers an unparalleled view of Cappadocia's stunning landscapes, including its rock formations, fairy chimneys, and lunar-like terrain.
After breakfast, we will be embarking on a full-day tour of Cappadocia. starting with the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cave churches nestled in the valley.
We will then continue to Uchisar Village and the remarkable fairy chimneys. In Derbent Valley, we'll have the opportunity to explore unique rock formations and visit workshops where traditional carpets and onyx stones are crafted.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Sultanhan Caravanserai & Cotton Steps
Cappadocia - Pamukkale. After breakfast, we will be heading to Pamukkale, stopping along the way to visit the Sultanhan Caravanserai. This structure was built during the Seljuk Empire and served as a longstanding stopover for travelers and merchants.
After, we will proceed to Pamukkale and we will stop to explore the Cotton Steps, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its healing thermal waters, along with the ancient city of Hierapolis.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring the ruins of Ephesus
Pamukkale - Ephesus - Izmir. We start our day with a drive to Selçuk to visit Ephesus. At Ephesus, we will explore the remarkably preserved ruins of the ancient city dedicated to Artemis, including the Odeon, a small theatre used for concerts and meetings; the Temple of Hadrian, with its intricate reliefs; the House of Love, believed to be a Roman brothel; the grand Library of Celsus, once holding thousands of scrolls; and the Agora, the bustling commercial centre of the city.
Afterwards, we will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, which is believed to be the final resting place of Jesus' mother. Our journey also includes a brief stop for leather shopping at a leather production store. Later, we will continue to Izmir for check in and dinner as a group.
Overnight: Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Flight to Athens
Izmir - Istanbul - Athens. Today, we will transfer to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport for our included flight to Athens via Istanbul. Upon arrival in Athens, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the city center. You will have the rest of the day at leisure to explore Athens, enjoy its nightlife or relax.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Athens City Tour
After breakfast, we will meet you at your hotel or nearby to begin the morning Half Day Athens Sightseeing Tour. The tour departs at approximately 08:45 and will return at around 13:30.
This will allow us to observe the fascinating contrasts that define Athens. Our expert guides will lead us to the Panathenaic Stadium, the venue of the first modern Olympic Games, where we will pause for a short visit. As we proceed, we'll see the Prime Minister's residence, formerly the Royal Palace, with its ceremonial guards, the Evzones, wearing their distinctive uniforms.
We'll pass landmarks including the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, University, National Library, and Syntagma Square. At the Acropolis, explore iconic monuments of the Golden Age of Pericles—the Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and the Parthenon. The tour ends at the modern Acropolis Museum, home to nearly 4,000 exhibits of Hellenic art and history.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Cruise to the Saronic Islands
Athens - Hydra - Poros - Aegina -Athens. This morning at 7:30 a.m., we’ll depart by motor coach from Athens city centre to Piraeus Port to board a cruise ship for a full-day excursion to the Saronic Gulf islands: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. Once on board, we set sail at 8:00 a.m., with an introductory briefing in the lounge covering the cruise and destinations.
Our first stop is Hydra, known for its jet-set appeal, stone mansions, narrow car-free streets, and charming craft shops. Next, we visit Poros, the smallest island, offering serene views and a lagoon-like coastline. The final stop is Aegina, rich in ancient heritage, where you will have free time to explore the island or you may choose from three optional tours: a visit to the Temple of Aphaia and Church of Saint Nektarios, a relaxing beach escape on Moni Island, or a scenic drive exploring pistachio groves, Paleohora, and a local taverna.
On the return to Athens, enjoy a lively Greek folk show aboard before arriving at Marina Flisvos. The cruise docks in Piraeus at 7:15 p.m., followed by transfer back to the hotel.
Please note: On today's cruise, it will not just be our tour group, up to 100+ passengers will join the cruise for today's excursion.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast, Lunch
Depart from Athens
After your final breakfast, depending on your departure flight time, you might have some time for some last-minute shopping, exploring, or relaxation before your onward transfer to the airport. Safe travels!
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Hotel Yigitalp, Istanbul
Hotel Yigitalp Istanbul is a 4-star hotel located in the Fatih district, within walking distance of the Grand Bazaar, Suleymaniye Mosque, and other historic landmarks. The hotel features a spa with a traditional Turkish bath, sauna, steam room, and massage services. Dining options include an on-site restaurant serving Turkish and international cuisine, as well as a rooftop bar offering panoramic city views. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception, and a TV lounge. The hotel is conveniently situated near public transportation, with tram and metro stations just a few minutes' walk away.
Latanya Hotel, Ankara
Latanya Hotel Ankara is situated in the Kavaklıdere district of Ankara, close to Kızılay Square and Tunali Hilmi Street. The hotel features a wellness center with a Turkish bath, steam room, sauna, and indoor pool. Dining options include the Brasserie Restaurant, offering international cuisine, and the Palm Pub. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, valet parking, a fitness center, and multiple meeting rooms. The hotel is approximately 16 miles (26 km) from Ankara Esenboğa Airport.
Holiday Inn Cukurambar, Ankara
This elegant hotel is located 6 km from the Atakule observation tower and 9 km from the Ethnography Museum of Ankara. The bright, comfortable rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a relaxed restaurant, a lobby café, an indoor pool, a gym, and a spa area with a sauna and steam room. The hotel also features a business centre and a children’s play area.
Dinler Hotel, Cappadocia
The Dinler Hotel is conveniently located in Urgup, at the heart of Turkey's spectacular Cappadocia region. This large hotel offers comfortable guest rooms, with wonderful views of Urgup or the historic Kayakapi neighbourhood. Each of the rooms is equipped with an en suite bathroom and modern amenities including LCD satellite TV, free WiFi and 24-hour room service. Dinler Hotel has a choice of five bars, a patisserie in the lobby and two restaurants. After a busy day of sightseeing, head back to the hotel for a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool or a sauna and Turkish bath at the fitness centre.
Perissia Hotel, Cappadocia
Perissia Hotel & Convention Centre is a luxurious hotel located in Urgup, Cappadocia. The hotel offers spacious and elegantly designed rooms, equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes from their rooms. The hotel features a variety of dining options, including restaurants serving Turkish and international cuisine, as well as a bar and a cafe. Other facilities include a spa, fitness center, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel, Pamukkale
Set in landscaped gardens, the Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel has an envious location in Pamukkale. Guest rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated and offer a wonderful level of comfort, ensuring a good night's sleep. The on site thermal spa offers guests the chance to relax, revitalise and enjoy what this region is most famous for. Breakfast can be eaten outside on the terrace while dinner is often taken by the shimmering water of the pool.
Richmond Thermal Hotel, Pamukkale
Richmond Pamukkale Thermal is a 5-star hotel located in Karahayıt, near Pamukkale, Turkey. Set amidst pine trees, the hotel offers a tranquil environment complemented by natural thermal springs. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, indoor and seasonal outdoor pools, a Turkish bath, and a sauna. The on-site restaurant serves local and international cuisine, and a complimentary continental breakfast is provided daily. Additional amenities include a fitness center, mini-golf, and a poolside bar. The hotel is approximately 3 km from the Pamukkale Travertine Terraces and Hierapolis ancient city.
Kaya Prestige Hotel, Izmir
Kaya Prestige, ideally located in the heart of Izmir City Centre, offers a refined and comfortable retreat. The hotel boasts elegant rooms with city views from its rooftop terrace, and both WiFi and parking are complimentary. Each room features plush carpeted floors, flat-screen TVs, and a spacious seating area. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the on-site dining options, including Turkish delights at Sediv and Mediterranean cuisine at the Divan Restaurant, complemented by live music. The Merhaba Bar offers a selection of beverages along with breathtaking city vistas.
Philippos Hotel, Athens
The Philippos Hotel is a charming hotel located in Athens' city centre, next to the Acropolis Museum. Guest rooms are sunny and modern, styled with elegant fabrics in earthy colours. Some rooms even feature unbeatable views of Acropolis! Buffet breakfast is served daily at the in-house cafe. For lunch and dinner, guests can visit Philippos' sister hotel, Herodion Hotel, which is only 40m away.
Central Hotel, Athens
This straightforward hotel is conveniently located just a 6-minute walk from the nearest metro station, 9 minutes from Syntagma Square, and 1 km from the Acropolis of Athens. The low-key rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, marble bathrooms, air conditioning, and room service. Guests can enjoy dining at the relaxed restaurant or unwind on the rooftop terrace, which boasts a polished bar and stunning views of the Acropolis and the city.
At a Glance
