Istanbul to Athens - Turkish Delights and Greek Treasures

Day 2 Istanbul

Today we'll set off to explore the treasures of Istanbul’s Old City. Your day begins at the magnificent Sultanahmet Square, the beating heart of Byzantine Constantinople. Here you’ll see the Hippodrome and the Obelisk of Theodosius.

We'll step inside the Blue Mosque and understand immediately how it earned its name - over 20,000 shimmering blue tiles create an almost ethereal atmosphere. Just a short walk away is the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that has served as cathedral, mosque and museum across its 1,500-year history. Its soaring dome and glittering mosaics tell the story of empires rising and falling beneath its centuries-old walls.

This afternoon, you have the choice to visit the opulent Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman sultans and their courts. Wander through treasury rooms and serene courtyards that offer stunning Bosphorus views.

The evening is yours to dine and explore at leisure. You may also choose to join our Istanbul by Night excursion to see the city’s monuments beautifully illuminated.

Day 3 Istanbul

This morning we'll immerse ourselves in the sensory delights of the Grand Bazaar—a labyrinth, and one of the world's oldest covered markets with over 4,000 shops. You'll have time to browse for ceramics, textiles, or perhaps some authentic Turkish tea to take home. The aroma of saffron, cumin, and Turkish delight also fills the air.

This afternoon you can explore at your own pace, or perhaps you’d like to join our optional Bosphorus cruise where you'll glide past waterfront palaces, historic fortresses, and charming wooden mansions

This evening, we'll gather for dinner in the atmospheric Kumkapi Fisherman's Village, a memorable way to bid farewell to this captivating city.

Day 4 Istanbul to Canakkale

After breakfast, we'll depart Istanbul and travel along the scenic Marmara Sea coast. The landscape changes from urban sprawl to rolling countryside as we approach the Gelibolu (Gallipoli) Peninsula.

This afternoon, we'll discover the poignant Gallipoli battlefields, where one of World War I's most significant campaigns unfolded in 1915. Walking amongst the memorials and cemeteries, including ANZAC Cove and Lone Pine, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the ANZAC legend and the shared history that connects our nations.

We'll then cross the Dardanelles Strait either by ferry or via the impressive new Canakkale Bridge (one of the world’s longest suspension bridges). We’ll enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Day 5 Troy

The day begins as we walk in the footsteps of Homer's heroes at Troy. As you explore its nine archaeological layers spanning over 3,000 years of continuous history, the site's enduring power to captivate becomes clear. Stand before the famous reconstructed Trojan Horse and let your imagination conjure up ancient warriors, wooden horses, and epic tales of love and betrayal. We’ll continue our tour at the Troy Museum which brings the site’s stories vividly to life through interactive exhibits and historical artefacts on display from both Troy and other historic sites.

Afterwards, we'll return to central Canakkale, where you'll have free time to stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy lunch and perhaps enjoy a Turkish coffee whilst watching fishing boats bob in the harbour.

Dinner this evening is at our hotel, where you can share your impressions of the day with fellow travellers.

Day 6 Canakkale to Kusadasi

Today's scenic drive takes us south along the stunning Aegean coast to the charming town of Ayvalik. We'll visit Planeterra Project Cop(m)adam, a social enterprise supporting women in rural communities. You’ll meet the artisans, learn about their crafts and have the opportunity to support their work.

Once a major centre for Greek commerce, Ayvalik is a delight to explore with its stone houses and narrow cobbled streets that reflect its fascinating heritage. We’ll explore its centre before our drive continues to Bergama to enjoy a ‘gözleme’ tasting. Gözleme is a delicious traditional Turkish flatbread with various fillings such as cheese, spinach or potato and often cooked on a slightly curved griddle. While here, we'll also witness the art of Turkish carpet weaving, where artisans demonstrate techniques passed down through generations.

This afternoon, we'll wander through the city of Pergamon, with its Acropolis perched dramatically on a hilltop with sweeping views across the valley. The ruins of the Temple of Trajan and the remarkably steep theatre showcase Hellenistic engineering at its finest. Later, we’ll continue to the lively resort town of Kusadasi, our base for the next two nights. Tonight, dinner will be at the hotel.

Day 7 Ephesus

Today we’ll step back in time in Ephesus, arguably the most magnificent classical site you'll encounter on this journey and one of the best-preserved cities in the Mediterranean. The city once served as the capital of Roman Asia Minor and as you walk along marble streets worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, you’ll see sites such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, elaborate bath houses and the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Your guide will bring the city to life with tales of daily Roman life, gladiatorial contests and the early Christian community that flourished here. We'll also see the Basilica of St. Jean in nearby Selçuk, believed to be the final resting place of John the Apostle.

This afternoon, we'll head to the delightful hilltop village of Sirince, nestled amongst olive groves and peach orchards and known for its quaint stone houses, charming shops and locally produced fruit wines. After spending some time exploring, we’ll return to Kusadasi for the evening.

Day 8 Kusadasi to Samos

After breakfast, we'll transfer to the harbour for our ferry crossing to the beautiful island of Samos. The short crossing offers views across the sparkling Aegean of the Turkish coastline receding behind us.

Upon arrival we’ll transfer to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Day 9 Samos

Today it is time to explore the island with a tour that includes the remarkable Eupalinos Tunnel. This is a 6th-century BC engineering marvel—a 1,036-metre aqueduct tunnel that was carved through solid rock from both ends simultaneously and met in the middle with remarkable precision. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a fascinating glimpse into classical ingenuity. During the tour we will visit local winery and try some local wine made on the Island.

Day 10 Samos to Athens

Today, a short morning flight will take us from the tranquil island of Samos to the bustling city of Athens. After checking into the hotel, we’ll take an orientation walk through the local area.

Athens rewards those who wander its streets, so you can take the rest of the day to explore at leisure. The city is an eclectic mix of timeless ruins, Byzantine churches, contemporary street art, secluded cafes and family-run tavernas serving traditional dishes.

Day 11 Athens

Today, we’ll explore more of the city where you’ll come face-to-face with one of Greece's most iconic sites—the Acropolis. This citadel, crowned by the magnificent Parthenon, has watched over Athens for 2,500 years. Climb the path to the summit and you’ll be rewarded with views across the city, and on a clear day see the Aegean Sea shimmering in the distance. The Acropolis Museum houses treasures unearthed on the sacred hill. A glass floor reveals ruins beneath your feet, whilst the galleries display sculptures, friezes and artifacts that offer an insight into the artistic and cultural achievements of Greece.

Day 12 Athens to Kalambaka

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Athens and journey north through the Greek countryside to Kalambaka – gateway to the UNESCO wonders of the Meteora monasteries.

The Meteora monasteries are extraordinary - perched atop towering rock pillars that rise dramatically from the landscape. We’ll visit two of these Eastern Orthodox monasteries, accessed by stone steps carved into the rock faces. Inside we’ll uncover Byzantine frescoes, ancient manuscripts and peaceful courtyards where monks have sought spiritual contemplation for more than 600 years.

Day 13 Kalamaka to Nafpaktos

Today’s journey takes us to Delphi, perched dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. We'll explore the extensive archaeological site, walking the Sacred Way as pilgrims once did, to the Temple of Apollo, and visit the well-preserved theatre with its panoramic mountain views. The on-site museum houses some of Greece's finest treasures, including the timeless Charioteer of Delphi, a life-size bronze sculpture from around 470 BC.

From Delphi, we'll continue our journey to Nafpaktos, a charming coastal town on the Gulf of Corinth.

Day 14 Nafpaktos

Today offers a well-deserved chance to relax in Nafpaktos. This atmospheric town, with its Venetian castle and pleasant waterside tavernas is perfect for a leisurely day.

For those seeking more adventure, join our optional excursion to be immersed in the rich history of Kalavryta. You’ll have the opportunity to experience a ride on the historic Odontotos Rack Railway, one of Greece’s most scenic rail journeys and an engineering marvel from the 1890s that winds through the Vouraikos Gorge. This narrow-gauge railway climbs 700 metres over 22 kilometres passing through tunnels, crossing bridges and hugging cliff-faces.

Day 15 Nafpaktos to Athens

After breakfast, we begin our return journey to Athens, and there's much to uncover along the way. Our first stop is Mycenae, the legendary kingdom of Agamemnon. Walk through the imposing Lion Gate and explore royal tombs where golden treasures were discovered, including the golden Mask of Agamemnon. This is also the site that offered some of the first examples of written Greek language—Linear B script.

Next, we'll venture to Nafplio, Greece's first capital and arguably its most beautiful town. The elegant Venetian houses, neoclassical mansions, waterfront promenade, and fortress-crowned headland all characterise this wonderful city.

Later, we’ll continue to Epidaurus, home to the well-preserved theatre and the Sanctuary of Asclepius. Today, it is a major archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Argolid region of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. We’ll leave Epidaurus to return to Athens, crossing the Corinth Canal.

This evening, we'll gather for our farewell dinner in Athens—a chance to reminisce about the incredible journey we've shared.

Day 16 Farewell

After breakfast, we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you memories of Turkish delights and Greek treasures.