Get ready for a scenic tour of the city. We'll visit the Süleymaniye Mosque, the largest in Istanbul, and explore the ancient city walls, the Golden Horn, and the lively fishing district, while admiring the exterior of Hagia Sophia. The tour also includes admission to the Topkapi Palace, which was once the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, featuring its splendid courtyards and pavilions. In the afternoon, you'll have leisure time to discover this city that bridges two continents. As the afternoon comes to an end, we'll arrange a transfer to Taksim, the city's most lively commercial hub. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a meal at one of its numerous restaurants and see the quaint old tram that travels through the area. Alternatively, you may choose to visit the nearby Galata Tower.

Today, we'll set out on a two-hour boat cruise along the Bosphorus (tickets included). This voyage will take us through the strait connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, separating Istanbul into its European and Asian regions. We'll appreciate the vibrant activity of the strait with its numerous boats, passing beneath the two bridges that unite Europe and Asia, while admiring the Sultan’s palaces, traditional wooden houses, and Ottoman architecture. Afterward, we'll head back to central Istanbul for some leisure time.

We'll set off early from Istanbul and continue our journey through Turkey. Around lunchtime, we’ll reach Ephesus, renowned as the best-preserved ancient city in Asia Minor, which boasted a population of a quarter of a million two thousand years ago. We'll explore the Basilica of St. John, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the archaeological site (tickets included). After delving into the rich history of Ephesus, we’ll head to Kusadasi, a lively coastal town famous for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling commerce, and charming castle. We'll spend the night in Kusadasi, with dinner included. Note: During peak season, from early June to late September, accommodations may be located in a nearby town rather than Kusadasi.

We'll set off early to explore one of Turkey's natural marvels, Lake Bafa, taking a moment to appreciate its tranquil beauty. Our journey will then continue to Bodrum, a beautiful fortified city with Greek roots. Here, you can discover its magnificent castle, stroll through the vibrant streets filled with tourists, or visit the marina. After lunch, we’ll head to Marmaris, another charming coastal destination known for its castle, pier, and fountains. Dinner will be provided. Please note: Occasionally, particularly in the summer, our accommodations may be in the nearby town of Mugla rather than Marmaris.

We’ll depart early in the morning towards Greece and board the express ferry to Rhodes, with a journey time of approximately one hour. We will complete the standard border-crossing procedures. Upon arrival in Rhodes, we’ll take a tour of its impressive walled city and historic quarter, showcasing a rich blend of cultural influences, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. Please note: The ferry schedule between Rhodes and Marmaris may change frequently and does not operate daily (except during the summer months). As a result, this part of the itinerary may need adjustments

Today, we’ll leave Rhodes city for an included excursion to discover more of the island. Our first destination will be Filerimos, perched on a hill, where you can visit its monastery set against beautiful scenery. From there, we’ll proceed to Lindos to explore its fortress and Acropolis, which offer breathtaking vistas of the sea. Feel free to stroll through its charming, whitewashed streets, unwind on one of its beaches, or opt for a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis. After lunch, we’ll head back to Rhodes city, giving you some free time in the afternoon. In the evening, we’ll provide a transfer to the airport for your flight to Crete, followed by a transfer to our hotel in Heraklion.

In the morning, we’ll travel along the western coast of the island. Our first stop will be Rethymno, a charming coastal city of Venetian heritage renowned for its medieval castle. Next, we’ll head to Chania, an enchanting city featuring a remarkable fortress and grand mansions. Chania has a rich history, having been influenced by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks. We’ll return to Heraklion at the end of the day.

Today, we’ll take a trip to the Palace of Knossos, where we’ll explore the Minoan culture that served as the cornerstone of Greek civilization four millennia ago (admission and guided tour included). Following our visit, we’ll navigate through the island’s lofty mountains and head south to the Libyan Sea’s shores, reaching Agia Galini—a charming town with meandering streets, a delightful fishing harbor, and bustling taverns. You’ll have time for lunch and, if desired, a refreshing swim in the sea. We’ll return to Crete’s capital by the end of the day. Note: From November to April, due to the conclusion of the summer season and closures of businesses, we’ll visit the charming town of Matala instead of Agia Galini. Matala is famous for its stunning beach and unique landscapes featuring cliffs with carved caves.

We’ll journey along the eastern coastline of the island. Our first stop will be the quaint town of Kritsa, where we’ll visit the Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church famous for its stunning frescoes (admission included). Following this, we’ll reach Agios Nikolaos, a charming town featuring a natural harbor. You’ll have time to wander and enjoy lunch. Next, we’ll proceed to Elounda, a former city-state transformed into a beautiful tourist destination. Here, we’ll take a boat ride to Spinalonga Island to explore the Fortress of Spinalonga, an ancient Venetian stronghold that was later utilized as a leper colony for many years. After our visit, we’ll return by boat and head back to Heraklion for the night.

We’ll depart early in the morning and head to the port to board a high-speed ferry to Santorini, arriving between 09:00 and 10:00 a.m. After arrival, we’ll travel by bus through picturesque landscapes to Oia, which is widely regarded as the most enchanting town on the island, featuring vibrant white streets, stunning cliff vistas, remnants of a castle, and traditional windmills. You’ll have time for lunch and a relaxing stroll. Next, we’ll visit Fira, the capital of the island. Those interested can take a cable car or donkey ride down to the port to admire the cruise ships. Finally, we’ll return to the port to board a high-speed ferry scheduled for departure around 03:15 p.m., with an expected arrival in Athens around midnight. Important Note: From November to mid-April, the high-speed ferry service from Heraklion to Santorini is unavailable. During this time, we will fly from Heraklion to Athens instead.

We’ll set off early in the morning toward northern Greece, with a stop at Kamena Vourla, a delightful seaside resort nestled among stunning landscapes. Continuing north, we’ll make a stop at the Thermopylae Mountain Pass, the historic site of the legendary battle. Our next destination is Kastraki, a charming village offering picturesque views of the entire valley, where you'll have free time for lunch. Afterwards, we’ll visit Meteora, an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site, where admission to one of its famous monasteries is included. Dinner will be served in Kalabaka.

We’ll travel south through the Thessaly region, taking in the stunning scenery, before arriving at Delphi. Here, we’ll explore the magnificent archaeological site that overlooks the Gulf of Corinth, offering breathtaking views. You'll have time to enjoy lunch. Next, we’ll visit the Hosios Loukas Monastery, celebrated as one of Greece's most beautiful Byzantine monasteries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its remarkable 11th-century mosaics. We’ll then proceed on our journey to Athens, arriving in the evening.

We’ll embark on a guided city tour of Athens, where we’ll visit significant landmarks such as the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games, the National Library, and the lively squares in the city center. We’ll also explore the newer neighborhoods that emerged after the 2004 Olympic Games. The tour will conclude at the Acropolis (admission not included). In the evening, we’ll arrange a transfer to the historic Plaka neighborhood, famous for its charming Greek tavernas and vibrant folklore experiences.

Following breakfast, our journey will conclude, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.