Santorini and Naxos are two of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades but here is where the similarity ends. Santorini feels like no other place on earth: an ancient island that endured one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. Here everything is bright like the whitewashed cube-shaped houses, the lapis lazuli sea and the sunsets that light up the caldera. Whilst the towns and beaches are understandably popular, the walking opportunities on the island are numerous, through volcanic landscapes and along spectacular cliffs along a series of mule tracks. Naxos on the other hand is the largest of the Cyclade islands with some of Greece's best white sand beaches, a smattering of ancient ruins and a lively town. Away from the coast, life has changed little in the last century. Traditional farming practices abound in a landscape of fertile valleys home to 1000 year old olive groves and impressive mountains beckoning to be climbed. One day is spent ascending the highest mountain of the area: Mt Zas. From its summit enjoy breathtaking views of olive-orchards set in sharp contrast with the deep blue Aegean Sea. The pace of the holiday is dictated by you, with plenty of opportunity after the walks to swim in the sea or hotel pool, wander through markets in the small towns and relax at a taverna to watch the sunset.
"Thanks for making this trip memorable with my family. Well organised trip great services. Great team coordinator who is in constant contact with us. Well-experienced drivers with comfort cars. All tour guides were very professional with fluent English speaking with history knowledge."
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-85 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, P
Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Kusadasi, Şirince, Laodicea, Ankara
Glories of Türkiye 15 day tour
This small group (in our case just 8 people) tour was excellent and provided a perfect introduction to this country. The first thing that stands out is how clean everywhere is. Not so much as a candy wrapper anywhere, city streets or country by-ways. The Turks are hospitable, polite and friendly people, eager to please everywhere you go. English is spoken in many places and commnication is never a problem. Our escort and guide, Fatih, was both knowledgeable and informative about the many sights; but also thoughtful and concerned for the well-being of his group members. Highly organized and experienced, he had everything under control. Our fellow travelers were all delightful company.
Istanbul is a vibrant city with a history dating back thousands of years. Divided by the Bosphorous, it is both in Europe and in Asia. The Kadikoy district, on the Asian side, is not part of the tour but should be. If possible try to spend a couple of additional days there.
The ancient sites are all interesting and cover thousands of years of history, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and many associated with biblical writings. This is also a good opportunity for non Muslims to learn about the Islamic faith.
Dining was always a pleasure. Although the Turkish population is almost entirely of the Muslim faith, it is politically secular. As a result, alcoholic beverages are widely but not universally available. Tap water is generally avoided, but bottled water is available everywhere.
Prices in stores and dining establishments were significantly cheaper than Europe or North America.
There was no sense anywhere of a threat to personal safety. Indeed we saw no signs of homelessness or drug or alcohol abuse or criminality. Toilets were clean and fresh everywhere.
In summary, Turkey was a wonderful vacation experience, and the Glories of Türkiye 15 day tour met and exceeded our expectations.
Art and architecture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ankara, Ant
Istanbul, Pamukkale, Ankara, Antalya, Cappadocia, Canakkale, Izmir, Ephesus, Bodrum
This is the 10th Explore holiday, we have covered places like Peru, Chile, Bolivia, Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Vietnam, Cambodia, Cuba, India and this just covers 5 holidays.
These are not for everyone, as some are very full on, but the two Balkan trips were easy, although some of this group had not read the itinerary properly and this was a bit too much for them!
The Cuba and South America were what I call, sanitised back packing, as sleeping out in the open and you can have very early starts, around 4 am and late finishes.
However, you really see the place and interact with the local people. This is why we love Explore tours.
If you want total comfort and not really interact, then Saga or like is for you, as you do have to rough it on some trips.
One trip in particular was India, two days going up the Ganges on a wooded raft, inches from the water and sleeping on the bank at night with the snakes and wild dogs, just an amazing experience, and you know you are alive!
Another was in the jungle of Cuba, no tent, just under the stars, but I did get attacked by the smallest ants in the night, but still a fantastic experience, one I won’t forget!
Our tour guides have all been very good, but on this trip, Constantin went beyond the norm.
The only criticism on this trip was no local experts and Constantin had to do it all, which makes it very difficult for him to become an expert in every area, town etc.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Bucharest, Sofia, Black Sea Regi
Bucharest, Sofia, Black Sea Region, Kaliakra, Transylvania, Sibiu, Belgrade
A great way to experience Croatia. However, we feel that some of the optional experiences should be INCLUDED (specifically the lunch at the family-owned winery) and a little more time spent in the STON area would have been nice.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Korčula, Opat
Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Korčula, Opatija, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Hvar
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The island of Crete has so much history and natural wonder to offer, and in seven days on its shores, you’ll see what’s known as Europe’s oldest city, taste some of the region’s best food and wine, and discover some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Visit the Knossos archaeological site and unwind in the secluded seaside village of Sougia. Join a boat trip with a local family through the region’s islands, sip wine in the vibrant port city of Chania and indulge in local dishes like fresh seafood or bougatsa (warm flaky pastry with creamy semolina custard or cheese).
Beach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This tour will take you through some of the most breathtaking attractions in Türkiye. Begin your journey in Istanbul, the cultural heart of the country, where you can relax or explore the city at your own pace. Continue east to Ankara, the modern capital, and visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk and its Museum — a tribute to the founder of the Turkish Republic. From there, travel to Cappadocia, one of Türkiye’s most fascinating regions, where erosion has sculpted caves, valleys, and rock formations into a surreal landscape. Experience the area’s unique culture and craftsmanship, from handmade carpets to pottery and local art. Your journey continues to Pamukkale, renowned for its dazzling white limestone terraces and thermal springs. Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and its vast Necropolis before heading toward the Aegean coast. In Izmir, Türkiye’s third-largest city, enjoy the blend of modern charm and ancient heritage. Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world, and the nearby village of Sirince, famous for its beautiful setting and locally produced wines.
Conclude your unforgettable adventure with a transfer to Kusadasi for the ferry to Samos or to Izmir Airport for your onward journey — the perfect ending to an inspiring exploration of Türkiye’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Before visiting the shores of Gallipoli, discover some of the most epic sights of Turkey in our 8 Day ANZAC Day tour. Soak in the famous natural spa pools of Pamukkale and experience best preserved ruins and ancient wonders of Ephesus. Visit the ever popular Trojan horse in Troy, before embarking on the emotional and unforgettable experience at Gallipoli.
This week-long tour of Greece will show you some of the most fascinating cities and extraordinary sites in Southern Europe! Begin your journey in Athens, where you will discover the Temple of Olympian Zeus and visit the Acropolis. Then, make a short stop at the Corinth Canal and discover the breathtaking scenery en route to Olympia, where you will visit the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus and see the Archaeological Museum. Travel along the coastal road to Delphi, known in ancient times as the navel of the world. Discover the Museum of Delphi and bask in the views of Central Greece before you continue your journey to Kalambaka, spanning through the northwestern part of the Thessaly Plains. Then, explore Meteora, a World Heritage Site with hilltop monasteries and a wide collection of Byzantine art. Travel back to Athens and enjoy your leisure time before you end a fascinating journey of Greece!
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
For travelers who crave a blend of iconic sights and unique discoveries, the 'Unique Greece' tour offers a 7-day group journey starting and ending in Athens. You’ll explore Athens, Kalabaka, and Patras, all at an easy pace ideal for seniors. Inclusive hotels, meals, and transport ensure a smooth experience, while the USP lies in the thoughtfully chosen mix of destinations—combining must-see landmarks with hidden treasures.
Captain Zoran and his responsible crew gave our group of 12 the most amazing trip of a lifetime! We had to reschedule due to Covid and Zoran honored everything from the original trip and went above and beyond to make this anticipated experience a high-end luxury vacation on Korcula Island in June 2022...from the Soul Sisters Villa, the daily island excursions on the yachts, the buggy tour of Korcula, along with the awesome food and transportation...it was all seamless due to the coordination of Captain Zoran and all of his local contacts in the community! Roko, along with the rest of the crew members, became a part of our extended family. We had high expectations going into the trip and they were pleasantly exceeded in all aspects...including personal communication from Captain Zoran each day about our unforgettable daily adventures.
Croatia is a beautiful country and this local travel specialist is the only way to experience it if you want to come home with memories that make you want to go back there tomorrow! We wish them only the best as they prosper in the future tour seasons!
Dok se open ne vidimo, Hrvatska! (Until we see you again, Croatia!)
Adventure
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
18-90 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Korcula
Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Korcula Island, Korčula, Mljet, Hvar Island, Lastovo Island, Blue Cave
We enjoyed. The trip was well planned, activities of value and very interesting. From when we left Istanbul our guide, Serhat, WAS FANTASTIC AND I WOULD RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE. He is a walking treasure of knowledge on Turkey and we loved him. Some positive criticism, 1the fact that it was an English and Spanish group with 2 tour guides in one bus that had to compete for the microphone, did not work well and was a big irritation. 2 The first two days in Istanbul had too much open time if you did not take the extras, which was very expensive. I would have preferred the trip to start with travel on the second day, and rather have the free time in Istanbul at the end of the trip. On the first two days, because we did not take the extras, we were not dropped off at the hotel after our excursion and had to find our own way back to the hotel. 3the first two days in Istanbul we were part of a Spanish group. There was an English tour guide that gave us very little information and we could not understand what the Spanish tour guide was explaining to her group. 4 on the second last day of the tour we had to leave our group and join a new group, as the rest of our group had a different itinerary. The last two days were unpleasant as we knew nobody in the new group, most of the people were Spanish and we did not feel part of the group. We missed Serhat, our previous tour guide, and his knowledgeable discussions very much in the last part of our tour.
From the turquoise waters of Lake Bled and the white peaks of Julian Alps to the emerald Soča river and green Karst vineyard, finishing at the blue Adriatic Sea. Cycle through traditional villages around Lake Bled before taking a scenic railway journey to Avče from where you'll reach Goriška Brda, the 'Tuscany' of Slovenia.
Explore the local vines and wines before discovering the Karst region and visiting the hilltop village of Štanjel, a medieval stonemason settlement with narrow, stone alleys that wind among the buildings built on terraces and the UNESCO-listed Škocjan caves. Next stop is Lipica, home of the original Lipizzaner horses with the stud farm dating from 1580 to the time of the Hapsburg. It is possible to join a guided tour to see the horses before cycling on to the edge of the border with Italy for views out to the coast towards Trieste in Italy and your destination. the city of Koper. A scenic path takes you along the Parenzana railway line to Koper from where you cycle on to Piran - looking back to the distant mountains gives you a great feeling of achievement.