22-day Athens, Istanbul, and Cairo Package

As you step onto Athenian soil, you're walking into a city where legends were born. A Greca representative will be waiting to take you comfortably to your hotel, where you can settle in and begin soaking up the Hellenic spirit.

Later in the afternoon, one of our team members will meet with you to give a personalized presentation of your upcoming journey and answer any questions you may have.

The rest of the day is yours. Stroll through timeless streets, enjoy local delicacies, and let the pulse of this lively capital introduce itself in its own unique rhythm.

Greca Tip: Enhance your experience by easily extending your stay. Add more nights during the booking process!

Today, we'll head to the Corinth Canal, where you'll make a brief stop to take photos and admire this famous waterway that connects the Aegean Sea and the Gulf of Corinth. This impressive engineering marvel eliminates the need for ships to travel over 400 kilometers around the Peloponnese peninsula to reach the Ionian Sea.

Continuing on our journey, we'll reach the Theater of Epidaurus, renowned worldwide for its exceptional acoustics and still used today for various performances, particularly during the summer. We'll also have time to explore the Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus, which pays homage to the origins of modern medicine.

Next, we'll travel to the city of Mycenae, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the prehistoric Acropolis, the iconic Lions Gate, and the tomb of Agamemnon.

In the afternoon, we'll make our way across the central Peloponnese region.

By early evening, we'll arrive in Olympia, where you'll check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest.

Greca Tip: Don't miss the chance to wander through the charming Old Town of Nafplio. Its narrow cobblestone streets are adorned with Bougainvillea trees, creating a picturesque setting. Consider picking up komboloyia, a circular chain with amber beads, as a lovely gift for yourself or your friends.

In the morning, you will visit the site of the ancient Olympic stadium, where the first games were held around 776 BC.

The importance of these games was widely accepted, given the extensive participation of the Greek cities, which suspended hostilities throughout the celebrations. The Olympiad was recognized as the only chronological event in Greece and represented four years between two consecutive events.

Olympia was also the most important sanctuary of Ancient Greece, a place to worship Zeus, the first among the gods. The gigantic gold and ivory sculpture crafted by Phidias was considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

After we visit the Museum of Olympia, you will continue your journey across the suspension of the Rion-Antirion Bridge, a modern engineering wonder, until you reach your destination.

Upon your arrival at Delphi, you will have dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Greca Tip: In the evening you can go in search of the traditional character of nearby Arachova and enjoy a drink in a stylish café or a local kafeneio (coffee shop).

Start your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a visit to Delphi, an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the ancient world.

Here, the famous Oracle of Delphi advised kings and pilgrims. Don't miss the chance to explore the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to the remarkable "Bronze Charioteer," a masterpiece of Greek sculpture.

Conclude your enriching Delphi tour by descending Mount Parnassus and making your way to the Thessaly plains, where the captivating city of Kalambaka awaits.

Upon reaching Kalambaka, indulge in a satisfying dinner and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Greca Tip: Use your free time to visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia at Delphi.

Early in the morning, you will visit Meteora, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

In this mysterious landscape, the natural beauty is combined with the compelling presence of the eternal monasteries suspended or "Meteora" on top of the huge rocks. Currently, there are only six in use, five for the male and one for the female monastic community.

Dress code to the Monasteries: Sleeveless clothing and shorts above the knee are not allowed. Skirts, shawls, and trousers are available at the entrance of the Monasteries in case visitors do not have such clothing to cover themselves with.

On the way back to Athens, you will briefly stop at Thermopylae, where you can see the statue of the Spartan King Leonidas, famous for leading the battle against the Persians in 480 BC. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Athens, where we will drop you off at your hotel.

Greca Tip: Take a stroll in Kalambaka's old town and look for handmade wood-carved objects and religious icons as well as home-made sausages, honey, fruit sweets and jams, and the regional pudding “spatoula” or “halva” for a sweet aftertaste.

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.

Today, you have the opportunity to enjoy a free day in Athens, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for an enchanting experience, you can opt for a captivating one-day cruise to three stunning islands nestled in the picturesque Saronic Gulf.

On the one hand, if you choose to embark on the full-day cruise, you will be conveniently transferred to the port, where your adventure begins. The itinerary includes visits to three remarkable islands: Aegina, renowned for its delightful assortment of pistachios; Poros, celebrated for its scenic beauty; and Hydra, the greenest among these islands, boasting elegant stone mansions, a tranquil atmosphere, and car-free streets.

On board the ship, you can indulge in a delectable lunch accompanied by traditional Greek music and dance. At the end of the day, you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless experience.

On the other hand, if you decide to spend the day in Athens, you will have the freedom to explore the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks at your own leisurely pace.

Greca Tip: You can add the cruise during step 1/3 while booking. If you do, make sure to try the different varieties of pistachio nuts grown on the famous island of Aegina!

At the indicated time, one of our vehicles will transfer you to Athens International Airport to fly to Istanbul.

After your arrival in what was once called Byzantium, and later Constantinople, your English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you to welcome you, inform you of all the details of the itinerary as well as answer any questions that you may have, while making a brief presentation of the city and its daily life.

The transfer to the hotel will be carried out in one of our private vehicles. At the hotel, your assistant will help you with the check-in and you will then have the rest of the day free to relax and start enjoying Istanbul.

Greca Tip: Ask for the Hammam bathing experience or a spectacular evening cruise on the Bosphorus with dinner to start feeling like a true Istanbulian.

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 breakfast, we will set out to discover some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. We will begin with a relaxing boat trip along the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia and makes this city a fascinating meeting point between two continents. During the cruise, we will admire the elegant palaces of the sultans, traditional wooden houses along the waterfront, and the historical and architectural treasures of Istanbul from a unique perspective.

Next, we will visit the Spice Bazaar, one of the city’s most emblematic historic markets. Established during the Ottoman Empire approximately five centuries ago, this lively market invites us to discover a wonderful variety of spices, traditional sweets, enticing aromas, and local products. Our included visit will end at the bazaar, where you will have time to explore its shops and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

In the afternoon, you may choose to join an optional excursion with lunch to explore the fascinating Asian side of Istanbul. We will visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the former summer residence of the Ottoman sultans, located on the shores of the Bosphorus. Along the way, we will also admire the famous suspension bridge connecting the European and Asian sides of the city.

After lunch, we will explore Üsküdar, a charming district on the Asian side, before continuing to Çamlıca Hill, one of Istanbul’s seven hills and the highest point in the city. Rising 268 meters above sea level, it offers magnificent panoramic views of both shores and the urban landscape stretching along the Bosphorus.

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

Greca Tip: Keep your camera ready during the Bosphorus cruise to capture the palaces and historic waterfront houses. If you choose the optional excursion, take a moment to enjoy the views from Çamlıca Hill, especially on a clear day.

After breakfast, we will set off for Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, crossing the Bolu Mountains and enjoying the scenic landscapes along our journey into the heart of the country.

Upon arrival, we will enjoy a panoramic tour of Ankara by coach, discovering a modern and cosmopolitan city that combines its role as the political center of the Turkish Republic with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Along the way, we will see some of its main points of interest and get a feel for the character of this important city.

We will visit the Anıtkabir Mausoleum, one of Ankara’s most iconic landmarks and the resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. This impressive complex stands as a powerful symbol of Turkish history and national identity.

In the late afternoon, we will arrive at our hotel to enjoy dinner and relax.

Greca Tip: During your visit to Anıtkabir, take a moment to admire the monumental architecture of the complex and discover why it holds such an important place in Türkiye’s modern history.

After breakfast, we will set off for Cappadocia, one of Türkiye’s most fascinating regions, renowned for its unique rock formations and almost surreal landscapes.

Along the way, we will admire Salt Lake, the second-largest lake in Türkiye, known for its vast white surfaces and striking scenery. We will also visit a 13th-century caravanserai, a medieval inn that once provided shelter and rest for merchants and travelers journeying along Anatolia’s historic trade routes.

Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you will have the opportunity to join an optional jeep safari, an exciting off-road adventure that allows you to explore the region’s valleys and discover its extraordinary natural formations from a different perspective.

At the end of the day, we will enjoy dinner and stay overnight in Cappadocia.

Greca Tip: Take advantage of the stops along the way to photograph the landscapes around Salt Lake and discover the history of the ancient caravanserais, witnesses to centuries of travel across Anatolia.

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, at the scheduled time, we will transfer to Cappadocia Airport to board our included domestic flight to Istanbul.

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel to check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, an ideal opportunity to relax or continue exploring this fascinating city at your own pace.

Overnight at the hotel in Istanbul.

Greca Tip: Make the most of your free time upon arrival to stroll around the hotel area or discover a corner of Istanbul you may not have had the chance to visit during your stay.

After breakfast and at the time agreed, we will transfer you to Istanbul International Airport to board your flight to Egypt.

After you arrive in Cairo, the capital of the Arab Republic of Egypt, a person from our English-speaking team will be waiting to assist you during the visa process and inform you of all the details of your trip. Also, this person will clear up any type of doubt or hidden question that you may have, as well as make you a brief presentation of the city and its day-to-day.

The transfer to the hotel will be made by one of our private air-conditioned vehicles. At the hotel, the assistant will help you with the registration.

The rest of the day will be to relaxing and enjoying the comforts of the hotel.

Greca Tip: Learn everything you need to know about this incredible country before your arrival, from the mouth of our specialists, in our blog section!

After enjoying a delicious and hearty breakfast featuring traditional regional products, we will begin our journey through the most iconic landmarks of the largest metropolis on the African continent.

Accompanied by our official English-speaking guide, we will start with the majestic Pyramids of Giza, where the only surviving wonder of the ancient world still stands: the Great Pyramid of Khufu.

This extraordinary funerary complex is guarded by the legendary Sphinx, bearing the head of Pharaoh Khafre and the body of a lion. We will admire it both from the panoramic esplanade and from up close. 

As an optional experience, we may include lunch and an excursion to the Saqqara necropolis, home to the extraordinary Step Pyramid of Djoser—the first monumental stone structure built in Egypt. This impressive site was conceived as a city for the king’s eternal life.

To end the day in style, you may choose to witness the Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show or enjoy a dinner cruise on the Nile—both optional and available upon request with your travel assistant.

Greca Tip: Beyond its famous pyramid, Saqqara also shelters richly decorated mastabas and tombs of nobles and high priests—hidden gems of ancient Egyptian art and history.

Begin your day with a delectable breakfast served in the hotel dining room, followed by a free day in Cairo to enjoy at your leisure.

For those seeking an immersive experience, we offer an optional full-day tour to Cairo, where you will explore the significant landmarks of this historic city.

The journey starts at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, situated in the heart of the city. Inside, you will encounter a vast collection of invaluable artifacts, including the renowned treasures of Tutankhamun, magnificent sarcophagi, well-preserved mummies, and sculptures of indescribable beauty.

Next, venture into the captivating historic district of Cairo, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area has been home to caliphs and their mosques since the 10th century. One notable attraction is the Citadel of Saladin, which was fortified to safeguard the city against Crusader invasions nearly a thousand years ago.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Khan el Khalili bazaar, where you will have the opportunity to test your negotiation skills during some free time.

Before returning to the hotel, you will personally explore the Coptic neighborhood, a melting pot of different religions. Stand in awe of the Hanging Church, a remarkable structure built on the foundations of the Babylon Fortress.

There, you should visit the Saints Sergius and Wachus Church, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their escape from Herod, and discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of the oldest in the country.

At the designated time, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport to catch your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, embark on a memorable cruise ship journey along the legendary Nile River. Indulge in comfortable accommodation and enjoy a delicious dinner onboard.

Greca Tip: Don't forget to inquire about the optional excursions available during the cruise, such as the unforgettable balloon ride in Luxor, offering a truly unique and breathtaking experience.

Start your day in Edfu with a memorable experience of witnessing one of Egypt's most beautiful sunrises. After indulging in a delicious breakfast onboard, prepare to embark on an enchanting carriage ride to the Temple of Horus.

This remarkable sanctuary holds the distinction of being the best-preserved Egyptian temple, having been concealed beneath the sand for centuries until its discovery by French archaeologist Auguste Mariette in the mid-19th century.

Following your visit to the Temple of Horus, return to the motor ship for a delectable lunch as you set sail towards Kom Ombo. Here, an exciting excursion awaits you at the temple dedicated to Haroeris, the falcon god, and Sobek, the crocodile god.

As part of your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore an exhibition showcasing remarkably preserved mummified crocodiles, providing fascinating insights into the culture of Ancient Egypt.

As the day draws to a close, a delightful dinner will be served onboard before you embark on a serene night sailing towards Aswan.

Greca Tip: Make sure not to miss the chance to savor a cup of traditional Turkish coffee, infused with the aromatic flavors of cardamom, for an authentic and delightful experience.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a relaxing morning to rejuvenate. If you're interested, we highly recommend considering an optional visit to the Temples of Abu Simbel in Nubia, located in southern Egypt on the shores of Lake Nasser.

These remarkable temples form part of the Nubia and Aswan Open-Air Museum and have been meticulously relocated piece by piece due to the rising waters of the Nile River caused by the construction of the Aswan Dam.

Commissioned by Ramses II, the rock-cut temples were constructed over 20 years to commemorate the Battle of Kadesh, paying homage to the great deities while also honoring Ramses himself.

Also, the main highlight of the complex is the Temple of Ramses II, featuring four awe-inspiring statues on its façade that exude the majesty of Ancient Egypt. Additionally, you will find the temple dedicated to Nefertari, the esteemed wife of the pharaoh, in Abu Simbel.

In the afternoon, following a delectable lunch onboard, we suggest considering an optional felucca ride, an authentic Egyptian wooden boat, allowing you to intimately admire the scenic beauty of the Nile.

Along this journey, you will encounter Elephantine Island, once a thriving center for the ivory trade, as well as Kitchener Island, renowned for its exquisite botanical garden and panoramic view of the Agha Khan Mausoleum. A single glance at this sight will help you comprehend why it was chosen as the eternal resting place for Supreme Chief Ismaelita.

Next, you will embark on a visit to Aswan Dam, an impressive feat of hydraulic engineering initiated by the British Empire and completed by the Egyptians in the mid-20th century. Designed to regulate the flooding of the Nile River, this monumental structure stands as a testament to human ingenuity.

Following the visit, you will proceed to the inaccessible island of Philae, where you will have the opportunity to witness the temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. Like the temples of Abu Simbel and other sites across Egypt, the Philae Temple complex had to be relocated from its original location to protect it from the Nile's rising waters.

After a day filled with exploration, return to the motor ship and enjoy a restful overnight stay onboard in Aswan.

Greca Tip: This is the perfect occasion to try karkadé, a delightful Nubian infusion made from hibiscus flowers. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, adding a refreshing touch to your Egyptian experience.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will disembark and transfer to Aswan Airport to board our domestic flight to Cairo, Egypt’s fascinating capital city.

Upon arrival, we will be welcomed and transferred to our hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day will be free to begin exploring the city at our own pace or simply relax and enjoy the hotel facilities.

In the evening, we will have the opportunity to join an optional buffet dinner cruise along the legendary Nile River. During the navigation, we will enjoy a traditional live show while admiring the city lights reflected on the river’s waters.

At the end of the experience, we will return to the hotel to rest.

Greca Tip: A nighttime cruise on the Nile offers a unique perspective of Cairo and allows travelers to experience one of the city's most iconic traditions in a magical and relaxing atmosphere.

At the indicated time, one of our vehicles will take you to the Cairo International Airport to check in your luggage and, if necessary, process any tax refund on tax-free products that you have purchased.

From Greca, we hope to see you again to enjoy some wonderful moments that will remain forever in your memory.

Have a good trip! Or, as you will say yourself: “Rihlat Jayida!”.

Greca Tip: If you feel that your stay in Egypt has not revealed all its secrets yet, you can add more nights to this fantastic city.