Turkey, Athens and the Greek Islands with Rome and the Amalfi Coast in 20 Days

Upon our arrival in what was once Byzantium (and later Constantinople), a Spanish-speaking assistant will be waiting for us at the airport. They will inform us about all the details of our itinerary, answer any questions we may have, and give us a brief introduction to the city and its daily life.

The transfer to the hotel will be carried out by one of our vehicles.

At the hotel, our assistant will help us with the check-in. The rest of the day will be free to relax and start enjoying this impressive city.

Greca Tip: Find the best advice to make the most of your trip in the following article: Everything you need to know about Turkey.

After a delicious breakfast, at the scheduled time, we will be picked up from our hotel or the nearest meeting point to begin our visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. Located on Istanbul’s Third Hill, it offers magnificent panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn. Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, it was designed by the renowned imperial architect Mimar Sinan. Its elegant architecture, spacious courtyards, and harmonious proportions reflect the splendor of the Ottoman Empire during one of its most remarkable periods.

At the end of the visit, we will have free time to continue exploring Istanbul at our own pace or, if we wish to delve deeper into its fascinating history, we can optionally join a full-day tour of the historic city.

Accompanied by an official English-speaking guide, we will venture into the heart of ancient Constantinople to discover some of the most representative monuments of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations. We will begin by admiring the impressive Hagia Sophia from the outside, an architectural gem whose history reflects the city’s religious and cultural transformations over the centuries. We will then continue to the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once a major center for public celebrations, chariot races, and political events during the Byzantine period, where important historical monuments can still be seen today.

Our next stop will be the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its elegant domes, six minarets, and delicate İznik tiles that decorate parts of its interior. We will then visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans and the empire’s administrative center for centuries. Its courtyards, pavilions, and collections offer a glimpse into imperial court life and help us understand the influence of the Ottoman Empire on the region’s history.

During the day, we will also enjoy lunch at a centrally located restaurant, providing the perfect opportunity to take a break and sample local cuisine before continuing our tour. The excursion will conclude at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops spread throughout its galleries. Among Turkish carpets, jewelry, handicrafts, ceramics, and traditional products, we will discover a vibrant atmosphere that has preserved the city’s commercial spirit for centuries.

At the end of the excursion, each traveler will make their own way back to the hotel. Those who wish may take the opportunity to continue strolling through the charming Sultanahmet district, enjoy its traditional cafés, or admire its monuments as the afternoon draws to a close.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Turkish apple tea, served hot or cold. While exploring the Grand Bazaar, take time to discover local handicrafts and enjoy the unique atmosphere of its winding alleyways.

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we can enjoy this beautiful city at our own pace or take the optional excursion to the Egyptian Bazaar, a Bosphorus cruise, and the famous Çamlıca Hill.

We will start with a visit to the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar, a building constructed in the 17th century after the Ottoman conquest of Egypt. After exploring the bazaar, we will board a boat for a cruise along the Bosphorus, from which we can admire both shores: the Asian and European sides. Along the way, we will be amazed by the stunning structures of Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, and Rumeli Hisarı Fortress, among many other monuments.

Next, we will visit Beylerbeyi Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces in the city, built in white marble by Sultan Abdulaziz in the 19th century. This palace served as the summer residence of the Sultans and as a guesthouse for the Sultan’s distinguished visitors.

To conclude our tour, we will head to Çamlıca Hill, also known as the Hill of Lovers, from where we will enjoy the most spectacular panoramic views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. Here, we will have free time to relax and enjoy a drink while admiring the breathtaking sunset.

At the end of the day, we will return to our hotel for an overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Take this opportunity to try some delicious local dishes, such as Köfte (meatballs made with lamb or beef), Pide (Turkish-style pizza), Şiş Kebab (grilled meat skewers), and for dessert, Lokum (Turkish delight) or Baklava for a sweet treat!

We will begin the day with a breakfast box before setting off towards Ankara, the capital of the Republic of Türkiye and its second most populous city. We will travel through the Bolu Mountains, taking in the landscapes of the country’s interior before arriving in this modern, cosmopolitan city with a rich historical and cultural heritage.

There, we will visit the Anıtkabir Mausoleum, one of Ankara’s most iconic landmarks and the final resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye.

We will then continue our journey towards the fascinating region of Cappadocia. Along the way, we will admire Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü), the second-largest lake in Türkiye, known for its vast white surfaces and distinctive landscapes. We will also stop to visit a 13th-century caravanserai, a medieval roadside inn that once provided shelter for merchants and travellers along historic trade routes.

Upon arrival in Cappadocia, we will have the option to book an exciting 4x4 Jeep Safari, an adventure that will allow us to explore the region’s spectacular valleys and rock formations from a different perspective. At the end of the day, we will enjoy dinner and relax at the hotel, surrounded by the unique landscapes of this remarkable region.

Greca Tip: As you explore Cappadocia, take a moment to appreciate the shapes and colours of its rock formations. Over time, erosion has sculpted an extraordinary landscape that makes this region one of Türkiye’s most distinctive destinations.

Very early at sunrise, we will have the option to join a hot air balloon excursion, a unique experience, over the marvelous rock formations, fairy chimneys, natural formations, and lunar landscapes of the splendid and magnificent Cappadocia.

After a refreshing breakfast, we will dedicate the day to exploring this fantastic region, with its spectacular fairy chimneys, unique in the world, starting with the Goreme Valley, with its cave churches and paintings from the 10th and 11th centuries.

We will visit the Avcilar Valley, which has a spectacular landscape, Pasabag Valley, also known as the Monks' Valley, and Gόvercinlik Valley, or the Pigeon Valley, where we can better admire the volcanic formations called "Fairy Chimneys."

To finish, we will visit a typical workshop of carpets and Onyx and Turquoise stones, where we can take home some souvenirs.

Optionally, you can add a visit to the Saratlı Underground City, with 7 underground levels, one of the most important attractions in the region, or enjoy a Turkish night, a typical dance show in a cave restaurant.

At the end of the day, we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Remember that inside the caves, if allowed, photos should be taken without flash as it can damage the images.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart early for Pamukkale, one of Türkiye’s most remarkable destinations, renowned for its spectacular white terraces and thermal waters.

Upon arrival, we will visit Hierapolis, an ancient city of Hellenistic origin whose ruins preserve traces of a rich historical past. During our visit, we will discover the remains of this once-thriving city, which flourished thanks to its thermal springs and became an important cultural and wellness center in ancient times.

Next, we will explore the famous Cotton Castle, a natural wonder formed over centuries by mineral-rich thermal waters. Its impressive white terraces, petrified waterfalls, and natural pools create a unique landscape that appears to cascade down the mountainside.

After the visits, we will transfer to the hotel to enjoy dinner and relax.

Greca Tip: Wear comfortable shoes to explore Hierapolis, and check the local guidelines before walking on Pamukkale’s terraces, as some areas must be visited barefoot to protect these natural formations.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities of antiquity and the former capital of Asia Minor. During our visit, we will explore this extraordinary archaeological site, where the ruins allow us to imagine the grandeur of a city that once served as an important political, commercial, and cultural center of the ancient world.

Among its main landmarks, we will discover the Temple of Hadrian, the Temple of Trajan, the impressive ancient theatre, and the renowned Library of Celsus, one of Ephesus’s most iconic structures, celebrated for its magnificent façade and historical significance.

Next, we will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a site of deep religious significance where, according to Christian tradition, Mary spent the final years of her life. Surrounded by nature and tranquility, this sanctuary offers a peaceful moment of reflection during our journey.

Later, we will visit a leather goods showroom, where we will learn about the region’s renowned tradition of producing lambskin garments and other handcrafted leather products.

In the late afternoon, we will continue our journey to Kuşadası or İzmir, where we will enjoy dinner at the hotel and stay overnight.

During the summer season, from May to October, accommodation may be arranged in İzmir and its surrounding areas instead of Kuşadası.

Greca Tip: Take time to admire the façade of the Library of Celsus and the architectural details throughout Ephesus. They are among the most fascinating reminders of the splendor of Greco-Roman civilization.

After breakfast, we will depart for Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and a city of great historical and cultural significance. During our visit, we will discover some of its most remarkable landmarks, reflecting the splendor of the empire’s early centuries.

We will visit the Grand Mosque of Bursa (Ulu Cami), one of the city’s most iconic mosques, renowned for its architecture and religious significance. We will then continue to Koza Han Silk Bazaar, a historic market that preserves Bursa’s silk-trading traditions and offers an ideal setting to discover local handicrafts and specialties.

Our visit will also include the Green Tomb (Yeşil Türbe), one of Bursa’s most notable monuments, famous for its elegant architecture and distinctive decorative tiles.

After this journey through Ottoman history, we will continue our trip to Istanbul. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel to relax and stay overnight.

Operational note: On some departures, due to operational reasons, the journey from İzmir to Istanbul may be made by domestic flight, without passing through Bursa.

Greca Tip: At Koza Han, take a moment to explore its traditional galleries and courtyards, where the history of Bursa as one of the major centers of silk production and trade still comes to life.

When it's time, we'll make sure you reach Istanbul International Airport smoothly for your flight to Athens.

Upon your arrival in this historic European capital,you will be greeted with a seamless transfer to your hotel in one of our vehicles, where your professional and friendly English-speaking driver will ensure your comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

Later in the afternoon, at an agreed time, one of our representatives will meet you at the hotel to provide all the essential details of the rest of your trip. They will also offer a captivating presentation of the city, sharing insights into its everyday way of life. This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions and have any doubts dispelled, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the rest of your trip.

You will have the remainder of the day free to relax and explore Athens at your own pace, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this remarkable city.

Greca Tip: Want a breathtaking view of Athens that stretches to the coastline? Hop on the funicular railway to Lycabettus Hill and treat yourself to a panoramic vista that's sure to leave you in awe.

Today, you will enjoy a delightful breakfast and prepare for a wonderful day as you discover the city of Athens and its fascinating blend of history and modernity.

During the panoramic tour, you will admire the Athenian Trilogy (National Library, University, and Academy of Athens), the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro), where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the Zappeion, the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus, which for centuries was one of the largest temples in Greece, and Hadrian’s Arch, built in honor of the Roman emperor.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Acropolis, symbol of the classical world and home to the Parthenon, a masterpiece of Greek architecture; the Erechtheion, with its famous Caryatids; and the Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to the goddess of victory. You will admire the history and legends surrounding these monuments while enjoying panoramic views of Athens from the hill.

The tour concludes at a central point in the city, ideal for continuing to explore Athens at your own pace. Later, you will head at your own rhythm to Monastiraki to join the “Athens by Night” tour, enjoying a walking tour through Plaka and Anafiotika, admiring the illuminated Acropolis, and passing by iconic sites such as Athens Cathedral and Ermou Street, while discovering how the city comes alive under the moonlight.

Greca Tip: At the Acropolis, mythology, architecture, and unique Athens panoramas come together. See how the Parthenon has inspired architects for over two thousand years and discover the stories of the ancient gods and heroes who dwell in these monuments.

Early in the morning, your assistant will escort you to Piraeus port in one of our private vehicles and you will take the ferry to the island that is an inexhaustible source of inspiration, Santorini. As the ferry approaches the port, you will admire the capital city of Fira, with its white houses perched on the cliffside and facing the volcano.

Upon disembarkation, one of our English-speaking representatives will welcome you, escort you to your hotel, and introduce you to some of the most outstanding features of this picturesque island. The rest of the day is free for you to wander through the narrow streets and become part of this amazing world.

Greca Tip: Sit back and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world from one of the coffee shops in glamorous Oia.

Free day to savor the wonders of this magnificent island. Mykonos is renowned as a hotspot for the international "jet set," boasting breathtaking beaches, vibrant shops, and a thriving nightlife.

Indulge in the island's delectable Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh vegetables, olive oil, and a variety of spices like oregano and basil take center stage. Delight in the abundance of fish and seafood dishes that grace the menus, reflecting the rich coastal heritage.

A short ferry ride away lies the historic island of Delos, believed to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis according to Greek mythology. This small island has been inhabited since 3000 B.C. and holds significant cultural significance as one of the most prominent centers of antiquity.

Greca Tip: To fully immerse yourself in the local customs and experience life as a Mykonian, we recommend renting a car or motorcycle to explore the island at your own pace. It's a wonderful way to uncover hidden gems and create unforgettable memories.

Having enjoyed a tasty breakfast, our representative will pick you up at the agreed time, in one of our private vehicles, to drive you to the port, where you will continue to your next destination, the island which is an inexhaustible source of inspiration, Santorini.

Approaching the island, you will have the opportunity to admire the capital city of Fira, with its white houses perched on the cliffside and facing the volcano.

Upon your arrival, one of our English-speaking representatives will be waiting for you at the port to welcome you, escort you to your hotel, and comment a little more on the attractions of this picturesque island. The rest of the day is free to wander through the narrow streets and become part of this amazing world.

Greca Tip: Sit back and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world from one of the coffee shops in glamorous Oia.

Today, we have a free day to discover the wonders of this mystical island, Santorini, often referred to as the lost continent of Atlantis. Take your time to immerse yourself in its captivating beauty and embrace the sense of adventure.

Optionally, you can embark on an unforgettable sailboat tour that will transport you to the breathtaking Nea and Palea Kameni islands within the caldera. Discover the natural hot springs with their mesmerizing green and yellow waters. Throughout the tour, the splendid capital city of Fira will serve as a picturesque backdrop, adding to the charm of the experience.

Greca Tip: For a more comprehensive exploration of the island, we recommend renting a car. This will allow us to discover hidden gems, indulge in the island's renowned wine, and savor the exceptional local cuisine. It's the perfect way to fully embrace the essence of this remarkable destination.

After a delicious breakfast and at the indicated time, our staff will transfer you to Santorini airport to embark on your flight to Rome.

Upon your arrival in the Eternal City, one of our vehicles will be waiting for you at the airport to welcome and transfer you comfortably and quickly to your hotel.  The rest of the day is free for you to relax, or if you wish, you can begin enjoying Rome at your own pace.

 Greca Tip: The best way to get around the narrow and pedestrian streets of the historic center of Rome is on foot.

After a nice breakfast, you will have free time to explore the 'Eternal City' at your own pace. You can choose from a variety of options, such as walking, visiting monuments, going shopping or simply tasting the local culinary delights, including pasta, veggies, meat, and fish.

Optionally, you can book a guided tour in English with exclusive, skip-the-line tickets and visit: the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Square, or the magical Colosseum.

Greca Tip: It is advisable to use public transport to reach the furthest points of the city, such as the Catacombs or the Vatican, and be sure to stock up on bus tickets ahead of time because you cannot buy them on the bus.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will make our own way to Rome's train station to board our train to Naples. During the journey, we will admire the beautiful landscapes of central and southern Italy while traveling comfortably to one of the country's most fascinating cities.

Upon arrival in Naples, we will make our own way to the selected hotel to check in and settle into our accommodation. The remainder of the day will be at leisure, allowing us to begin discovering this vibrant city at our own pace, strolling through its lively streets, admiring its rich historical heritage, or sampling some of the specialties that have made Neapolitan cuisine famous around the world.

In the evening, we may enjoy dinner at our leisure in one of the city's traditional restaurants before returning to the hotel to rest and prepare for the experiences awaiting us in the days ahead.

Greca Tip: Naples is considered the birthplace of pizza. If you have some free time, take the opportunity to taste an authentic Neapolitan pizza at one of the city's historic pizzerias.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will make our own way to the designated meeting point to begin a fascinating guided tour of Naples and its impressive underground ruins. Accompanied by an official English-speaking guide, we will spend approximately 3 hours exploring some of the most iconic corners of the capital of Campania while uncovering the hidden secrets beneath its streets and the extraordinary history that has shaped this vibrant city.

At the end of the tour, we will have free time to enjoy lunch and continue exploring Naples at our own pace, taking in its authentic atmosphere, historic squares, and renowned gastronomy.

At 2:00 PM, we will meet again at the designated meeting point to begin an excursion to Pompeii. During the visit, we will explore this extraordinary archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will discover what daily life was like in one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire before it was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

At the end of the experience, we will return to Naples, where we will have time to enjoy dinner at our leisure before heading back to the hotel to rest.

Greca Tip: Don't forget to bring comfortable walking shoes and a bottle of water. Both the streets of Naples and the ancient roads of Pompeii are best explored on foot, with every corner revealing centuries of history.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will head to the designated meeting point at the scheduled time to begin an unforgettable excursion along the spectacular Amalfi Coast, one of Italy's most picturesque regions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the morning, we will travel towards the Sorrento Peninsula, enjoying beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and making several photo stops to admire the coastal scenery. We will then continue our journey along the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast, where we will stop to admire and photograph the breathtaking views of Positano, considered one of the most beautiful and photographed villages in Italy thanks to its colorful houses cascading down the cliffs.

We will continue along the coastline, taking in unique views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the charming villages scattered along the shore. Upon arrival in Amalfi, the former maritime republic and historic heart of the region, we will have free time to enjoy lunch at our leisure, stroll through its picturesque streets, visit its famous cathedral, or optionally take a boat ride to admire the coastline from a different perspective.

In the afternoon, we will continue to Ravello, an elegant village perched on the hills of the Amalfi Coast, renowned for its gardens, historic villas, and spectacular panoramic views. There, we will visit the iconic Villa Rufolo, whose gardens inspired artists and travelers from around the world, while enjoying some of the finest views along the coast.

At the end of the visit, we will begin our journey back to Naples.

Greca Tip: Bring your camera or make sure your phone is fully charged. The Amalfi Coast offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Italy, with panoramic views worthy of being captured at every stop.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have some time to prepare for your return to Rome. At the indicated time, you will need to make your own way to Napoli Centrale train station to board your train back to the Italian capital.

During the journey, enjoy the final landscapes of your trip and reflect on the memorable experiences you have had in southern Italy.

Upon arrival in Rome, our services will come to an end. We hope you have enjoyed this experience with Greca and that you take home unforgettable memories of your journey through Italy.

Greca Tip: If you wish to extend your stay and continue discovering the charms of the Italian capital, you can add extra nights in Rome to your package when making your reservation.