Greek Islands, Classical Greece and Turkey – 20 Days

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).

In the morning, and after a solid breakfast, you will visit Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center or 'navel' of the ancient world. It was here where the renowned Delphi Oracle, a counselor of kings and pilgrims, could be found.

You cannot miss out on a visit to the Museum, which houses the "Bronze Charioteer", a masterpiece of Greek sculpture.

At the end of your Delphi tour, you will descend the slopes of Mount Parnassus, and head towards the plains of Thessaly, where the city of Kalambaka is located.

Upon your arrival in Kalambaka, you will check in at your hotel, and have dinner and a rejuvenating sleep.

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

Early in the morning you will visit Meteora, also recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 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.

There are only six in use, five for the male and one for the female monastic community.  

On the way back to Athens, you will stop briefly at Thermopylae, where you can see the statue of the Spartan King Leonidas I, famous for leading the battle against the Persians in 480 BC.

You will arrive in Athens in the late afternoon and we will drop you off at your hotel or the nearest one, whichever is more convenient.

Dresscode to the Monasteries: Sleeveless shirts and shorts above the knee are not allowed. Trousers, skirts and shawls are available at the entrance of the Monasteries in case the visitors do not have such clothing to cover themselves with.

Greca Tip: Take a stroll in Kalambaka's old town and look for handmade woodcarved 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.

Early in the morning, your assistant will pick you up in one of our private vehicles and transfer you to the port of Piraeus, where you will board the ferry to the famous island of Mykonos. The crossing is scheduled at the ideal time of the day so that you can enjoy the sun on deck and marvel at the deep blue of the Aegean sea. The name of this cosmopolitan island denotes "heap of stones" or the "rocky place", but a later version links it to the hero Mykonos, son of the king of Delos, Anius.

Upon your arrival on the island, one of our English speaking representatives will be waiting to welcome you, transfer you to your hotel and introduce you to this famous island.

The rest of the day is free for you to relax and immerse yourself in the 'slow' way of life of the islanders.

Greca Tip: You can select a fast ferry in step 1 of 3 of your reservation.

Free day to enjoy this magnificent island. Mykonos is the meeting point of the international "jet set." The island is famous for its wonderful beaches, dazzling shops, and vibrant nightlife.

Mykonos's cuisine is Mediterranean. Vegetables and olive oil are an integral part of the daily menu. Together with certain spices (oregano, basil) as well as fish and seafood dishes.

A few minutes away by ferry, there is the historic island of Delos. According to Greek mythology, it was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. This small island has been inhabited since 3000 BC. In the past, it was one of the most important cultural centers of antiquity.

Greca Tip: Check the best tours in Mykonos in our Excursions section.

After a tasty breakfast, appreciating life like a Greek, 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.

Free day for you and your companion to explore this magical island, considered to be the lost continent of Atlantis, at your own pace. The name of the island was given by the Venetian Giacomo Barozzi due to the presence of a chapel dedicated to Saint Eirini. His descendants remained until 1576, when it became part of the Duchy of Naxos and until the Turkish conquest by Piyale Pasha.

Optionally, you can go on a dazzling sailboat tour that includes visits to the small islands inside the caldera, Nea and Palea Kameni, with the hot springs of green and yellow waters.

All the time, the capital city of Fira will never be far away, but will feature superbly in the background throughout the cruise tour.

Greca Tip: We also recommend hiring a car in order to find out more about this island, taste its wine and its excellent local cuisine.

At the time indicated you will be transferred to Santorini Airport to board your flight to Istanbul via Athens.

After you arrive in the city that was once Byzantium (and later Constantinople), an English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you at the airport. He will inform you about all the details of your itinerary, answer your questions, and offer you a brief presentation of the city and its day-to-day life.

The transfer to your hotel will take place in one of our private vehicles and your assistant will help you with the check-in. The rest of the day will be free for you to relax and start enjoying this stunning city.

Greca Tip: Head to Ortaköy, the area for upmarket chic, where you will also find a strip of stands serving kumpir, Turkey's answer to the jacket potato. Pick your spud and toppings and savor the seaside views while you eat on your feet.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will immerse ourselves in the rich history of Istanbul with a visit to the Suleiman the Magnificent Mosque, one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architecture. Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman and designed by the renowned imperial architect Sinan, this magnificent mosque stands atop the city's third hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.

After the visit, you will have free time to continue exploring Istanbul at your own pace or, if you wish, join an optional full-day excursion through the city's historic heart.

During this tour, we will admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia, visit the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries, enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, and marvel at the magnificent Blue Mosque and the historic Hippodrome, home to remarkable monuments from the Roman and Byzantine eras. To conclude the day, we will stroll through the legendary Grand Bazaar, a fascinating maze of more than 4,000 shops where you can discover local handicrafts, spices, and unique souvenirs.

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

Greca Tip: If you visit the Grand Bazaar, don't hesitate to negotiate prices. Bargaining is an essential part of Turkish trading culture and an experience in itself.

After breakfast, we will have a free day to continue exploring Istanbul at our own pace or, if we prefer, join optional excursions to discover some of the city’s most fascinating corners.

One option invites us to enjoy a Bosphorus boat cruise along the strait that separates Europe from Asia and offers a unique perspective of Istanbul. During the cruise, we will admire the elegant palaces of the sultans, historic wooden houses, and traditional waterfront mansions lining both shores, while discovering the city’s history and charm from the water.

Next, we will visit the Spice Bazaar, a historic market dating back to the Ottoman era that has captivated visitors with its aromas and colors for more than four centuries. Among stalls filled with spices, traditional sweets, dried fruits, and local products, we will immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the ancient oriental trade and discover some of Turkey’s most distinctive flavors.

Alternatively, we can choose an excursion to Istanbul’s Asian side, an opportunity to discover another facet of this fascinating metropolis. We will visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the former summer residence of the Ottoman sultans, located on the shores of the Bosphorus and renowned for its elegant architecture. Along the way, we will also admire the famous suspension bridge connecting the European and Asian sides of the city.

After lunch, we will continue to Üsküdar, a charming historic district where local life and traditions blend with magnificent views of the Bosphorus. From there, we will head to Çamlıca Hill, one of Istanbul’s seven historic hills and one of its highest viewpoints. At 268 meters above sea level, we will enjoy splendid panoramic views of both shores and the cityscape stretching along the strait.

At the end of the activities, we will return to the hotel to relax and enjoy our accommodation.

Greca Tip: During your visit to the Spice Bazaar, try some traditional Turkish delicacies and explore the variety of teas, spices, and local sweets. It is a delicious way to take home a little taste of Istanbul!

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 travel by road to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey and one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Once the capital of Asia Minor and a prominent metropolis during the Roman Empire, Ephesus will amaze us with its monumental avenues, temples, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the splendor of urban life in antiquity.

During our visit, we will explore some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Temple of Hadrian, the Library of Celsus, and the Theater, whose impressive dimensions bear witness to the city’s former importance. We will also visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a place of great spiritual significance and a pilgrimage destination for visitors from around the world.

We will continue our journey through this fascinating region, where history, culture, and traditions intertwine at every turn. After completing our visits, we will proceed to Kuşadası or Izmir, depending on the scheduled accommodation, where we will enjoy dinner, relax, and experience the atmosphere of this coastal area along the Aegean Sea.

Greca Tip: During your visit to Ephesus, take a moment to admire the façade of the Library of Celsus and the details of its reliefs. It is one of the most photographed spots at the archaeological site and a wonderful opportunity to imagine the grandeur of the ancient city.

After breakfast, we will set off for Pergamon, one of the most important cities of the ancient world due to its cultural, medical, and commercial significance. There, we will visit the Asclepion, a renowned healing center dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine, which became one of the most prominent therapeutic sanctuaries of antiquity. The celebrated physician Galen, regarded as one of the leading figures in ancient medicine, practiced at this complex.

During our visit, we will discover the remains of this ancient healing center, including its treatment areas, pools, galleries, and colonnaded courtyards, where patients received care and enjoyed sunbathing as part of the therapeutic practices of the time. This experience will allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the medical traditions of ancient civilizations and their influence on the history of medicine.

We will then continue to Troy, the legendary city that inspired Homer’s famous Iliad and remains forever associated with the tale of the war between the Greeks and the Trojans. According to tradition, the story of Paris and Helen sparked a conflict that culminated in the city’s fall through the famous strategy of the Trojan Horse. During our visit, we will explore the archaeological remains of this mythical site, where history and legend intertwine in fascinating ways.

At the end of the tour, we will proceed to Canakkale, a city located beside the Dardanelles Strait, a historically significant waterway connecting the Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara. Here, we will be able to relax after a day spent discovering some of the most iconic settings of the ancient world.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Greca Tip: Before visiting Troy, take a moment to recall the story of the Trojan Horse, one of the most famous tales in Greek mythology. Exploring the archaeological site with this legend in mind will make the experience even more fascinating.

After breakfast, we will set off for Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, also known as “Green Bursa” due to its abundant green spaces and gardens. This historic city combines a rich architectural heritage with centuries-old commercial traditions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the origins of Ottoman power.

During our visit, we will discover the Ulu Camii Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Bursa, one of the city’s most important religious monuments, renowned for its architecture and historical significance. We will then continue to the Koza Han Silk Bazaar, a historic trading center where we can explore traditional products and appreciate the legacy of the ancient Silk Road. We will also visit the Green Mausoleum, famous for its elegant architecture and distinctive tiles, which make it one of Bursa’s most iconic landmarks.

After completing our visits, we will continue by road to Istanbul, where we will check in to our hotel. For dinner, we can ask our guide for recommendations on the best restaurants in the area or, if we prefer a different experience, optionally enjoy a dinner cruise on the Bosphorus, admiring the city’s illuminated skyline from the water.

Greca Tip: In Bursa, take the opportunity to discover traditional silk products and sample a local specialty. It is a wonderful way to take home an authentic memory of this historic Ottoman city!

After savoring a delightful breakfast, we will arrange a seamless transfer for you to Istanbul Airport, ensuring you arrive in good time for your international flight.

The entire team at Greca extends their warmest wishes for a safe and pleasant journey. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back soon, creating more unforgettable moments that will stay with you forever.

Have a wonderful trip! Or, as the locals say, "Iyi yolculuklar!"

Greca Tip: If you feel that your time in Istanbul was too brief, you can easily add extra nights to your booking. Simply let us know your preferences, and we'll be happy to assist you.