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The Best of Greece & Turkey

5.0Based on
15 daysDuration
Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers
15 peopleMaximum group size
12 - 100 yearsAge range for participants
EnglishGuide language
Moderate
Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Highlights

Experience traditional cuisine with a cooking class in Athens.

Admire the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

Visit the ancient cities of Delphi and Ephesus.

See the historic battlefield of Gallipoli and the ruins of Troy.

Walk through the astonishing white pools of Pamukkale.

Itinerary

Step into a world where East meets West on "The Best of Greece & Turkey"—a 15-day journey across Athens, Istanbul, and beyond. Explore ancient marvels from the Acropolis to the statues of Apollo, then wander Napflio’s cobblestone streets before discovering Turkey’s Gallipoli battlefields and Pamukkale’s surreal white pools. This small group tour’s unique selling point is its seamless blend of world-renowned historical sites and vibrant local culture—creating a feast for the senses across two continents.

day 1 - Athens

Arrive at any time.
We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.

There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.

Accomodation:Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Included Activity:Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Duration : 1.0 hr
Optional Activities:Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit Most of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones., National Archaeological Museum Visit Take a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world., Ancient Agora Visit Explore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.

day 2 - Athens

Explore the city on a guided walking tour to the Parthenon and Acropolis with a refreshment stop at a local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home, along the way. Enjoy a free afternoon to immerse yourself deeper into this historical city; opt to visit the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. Later in the evening attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner
Accomodation:Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Included Activities:Guided Visit of Acropolis and Parthenon Duration : 2.0 hr, Athens Walking Tour Duration : 0.5 hr - 1.0 hr, Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage, Cooking Class Athens
Optional Activities:Ancient Agora Visit Explore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade., Acropolis Museum Visit Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor. , Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit Most of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones., National Archaeological Museum Visit Take a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.

day 3 - Athens/Meteora

Travel north from Athens by bus and train to Kalampaka, the perfect base for visiting the monasteries and the area of Meteora.
Perched on high cliffs there are monasteries built on immense natural pillars and make for a once-in-a-lifetime sight.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Hotel Kosta Famissi (or similar)
Transport:Local Bus Duration : 5.0 hr
Optional Activities:Meteora Sunset Tour

day 4 - Meteora

Spend a full free Day in the area. Head out and visit the mountain top monasteries on your own by bus or pre-book the Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour to do it on foot with a local guide.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Hotel Kosta Famissi (or similar)
Optional Activities:Guided Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour , Natural History Museum of Meteora Located along the highway and a short distance from the city centre, the Natural History Museum of Meteora houses over 300 exhibits featuring mammals, birds and local flora and fauna.

day 5 - Meteora/Delphi

After breakfast, transfer to the site of Thermopylae and Information Centre to learn of the famous battle that helped create the Greece we know today. Continue on to Delphi for an orientation walk before touring Ancient Delphi with a local guide. Spend the evening as you wish with free time.
Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi.

Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Hotel Acropole Delphi (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 2.0 hr Distance : 155 km, Private Vehicle Duration : 2.25 hr Distance : 80 km
Included Activities:Thermopylae and Information Center Visit Duration : 0.75 hr, Delphi Orientation Walk, Ancient Delphi Tour Duration : 3.0 hr - 3.5 hr

day 6 - Delphi/Náfplio

Travel Nafplio with a stop at the Corinth Canal on the way. Take part in a brief orientation walk then spend the evening exploring the cobblestone streets with free time. Opt to climb the Acronafplia to take in the views.
Described as one of Greece's prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Park Hotel Nafplio (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 3.0 hr, Private Vehicle Duration : 1.5 hr
Included Activities:Corinth Canal Visit Duration : 0.5 hr, Orientation Walk Nafplio Duration : 0.5 hr - 1.0 hr
Optional Activities:Bourtzi Castle Take a short ferry ride to this Venetian landmark - a medieval castle off the coast of Nafpilo. A visit here offers visitors the chance to explore the castle's rooms, and a great views of the city on shore. , Archaeology Museum , War Museum Explore the history of Nafplio through the Greek Revolution, Macedonian Struggle, the Balkan Wars and succeeding conflicts at the War Museum, housed in the building of the First Academy., Acronafplia Fortress Visit , Palamidi Fortress Visit Explore the Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the late 1600s when they occupied the area for the second time. Climb the 999 stairs from the town to the fortress, or 913 depending on who you ask—either way expect to feel the burn tomorrow. The view over the Argolic Gulf and the city are worth the work to reach the top.

day 7 - Náfplio/Athens

Enjoy free time to explore Napflio and the surrounding areas. Choose to visit Epidavros, as well as the nearby site of Mycenae then transfer in the late afternoon to Athens for the night.
There is a wealth of ancient sites to explore within easy reach of Nafplio on a free day such as Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. Or choose to visit the famous Mycenae, also close by, with its spectacular treasury and ruins, or for another lesser-known Mycenean site visit Tiryns, just in the suburbs of Nafplio itself.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 2.5 hr Distance : 140 km
Optional Activities:Epidavros Visit , Mycenae Site Visit , Tiryns Site Visit Explore the lesser-known Mycenean site, hidden in the suburbs of Nafplio. Along with Mycenae, Tiryns is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site first excavated in 1831 by German archaeologists.

day 8 - Athens/Istanbul

Transfer to the airport for the flight from Athens to Istanbul, Turkey. Enjoy a bit of free time after checking into the hotel before meeting up with newly-joining group members in the evening and heading out for an optional dinner.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Hotel Centrum Istanbul (or similar)
Transport:Plane

day 9 - Istanbul/Çanakkale

Set off from Istanbul and take a guided tour of Gallipoli, including ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Continue on to the harbour town of Çanakkale for the night.
Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.

It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Bogaz Hotel Canakkale (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 4.0 hr Distance : 260 km, Ferry Duration : 0.33 hr
Included Activity:Gallipoli Battlefields Guided Tour Duration : 2.5 hr - 3.0 hr

day 10 - Çanakkale/Ayvalık/Bergama

Enjoy a guided visit of Troy before arriving at Ayvalik. Visit a women's handicraft shop, a G Adventures supported project. Opt to enjoy a half-day boat trip.
Enjoy a visit to the world-famous city of Troy. Continue to Ayvalik. Be charmed by the blend of old Ottoman architecture, cobblestoned streets, and an attractive harbour.

In the afternoon, opt to charter a small boat from the harbour to cruise this beautiful area. After, head to waterside restaurants for a sunset drink.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Berksoy Hotel Bergama (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 0.75 hr, Private Vehicle Duration : 2.5 hr, Private Vehicle Duration : 1.0 hr - 1.5 hr
Included Activities:Troy Visit Duration : 1.0 hr - 2.0 hr Distance : 1 km, Çöp(m)adam Visit
Optional Activities:Ayvalik Boat Tour

day 11 - Bergama/Selçuk

Visit ancient Ephesus before continuing on to Selçuk.
Enjoy a free morning in Bergama before travelling to Selçuk, the base for exploring the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Ephesus.

Head to town and enjoy some free time to explore.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Cenka Hotel Selcuk (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 2.5 hr
Included Activity:Ephesus Visit Duration : 2.0 hr - 3.0 hr

day 12 - Selçuk

Opt to visit St John's Basilica and the Mosque of Isa Bey or the nearby picturesque village of Şirince.
With free time, choose to pre-book a traditional Selcuk cooking class, walk to the remains of St John's Basilica, visit the Mosque of Isa Bey or wander the streets of this vibrant Turkish town. Another option is to catch a local “dolmus” bus to the picturesque village of Şirince (8km/5 mi) to sample some local wine or shop for crafts. For dedicated sunseekers, the beach at Pamucaki is also within reach.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Cenka Hotel Selcuk (or similar)
Optional Activities:Şirince Village Visit Head out to scenic Şirince, a Turkish-Greek village that was settled when Ephesus was abandoned; it’s now 600 strong. Wander the narrow village streets filled with people selling handicrafts, olive oil, and local wine. , Sample Local Wine in Sirince Sample some of the local wine in Sirence, and find a new favourite to bring home., Saint John's Basilica Visit View St John's Basilica, once a grand basilica in Ephesus. Constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century, it was built in where John the Apostle is said to be buried. , Mosque of Isa Bey Visit Visit the centuries-old Isa Bey Mosque on the outskirts of Selçuk to see one of the oldest and most impressive works of art remaining in this region., Pide Lunch & Demonstration, Selcuk

day 13 - Selçuk/Pamukkale

Guided walk of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis.
Visit the famous white cliffs of Pamukkale and the ancient site of Hierapolis.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis is evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the second century BC.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Anya Resort Hotel Pamukkale (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 4.0 hr
Included Activity:Hierapolis and Pamukkale Visit Duration : 2.0 hr - 3.0 hr
Optional Activities:Swim in an Ancient Pool

day 14 - Pamukkale/Istanbul

Hop on a morning flight to İstanbul. Take a guided orientation walk before free time to explore some highlights, including the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya).
Take a short flight to İstanbul. After settling in, depart for a walking tour of the city.

Each tour will be a bit different, allowing your CEO to point out their favourite spots. See highlights that may include the Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) and the Topkapi Palace. With a little extra time, return to explore these sights in depth.

Meal:Breakfast
Accomodation:Hotel Centrum Istanbul (or similar)
Transport:Private Vehicle, Plane Duration : 1.0 hr
Included Activity:Istanbul Orientation Walk Duration : 2.0 hr - 3.0 hr Distance : 3 km
Optional Activities:Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) Visit , Spice Bazaar Visit , Dolamabahçe Palace Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahçe Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur., Blue Mosque Visit Explore the fabulous Blue Mosque, admiring the beautiful symmetry and internal tile work of the building. As it is a working mosque, take the chance to learn more about the ceremony behind Islam, the religion of about 98 per cent of today's Turks. Head to the front of the Blue Mosque, to see the ancient Hippodrome. It was once the scene of chariot races, and now houses monuments from various moments in Istanbul’s history. , Archaeological Museum Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks. , Galata Tower Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset., Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts This museum is home to treasures from the Ottoman and Seljuk periods, and boasts one of the world's largest collection of Turkish carpets., Great Palace Mosaic Museum See the intricate mosaics on display from the Byzantine period, excavated from the site of The Great Palace of Constantinople., Topkapi Palace Visit , Basilica Cistern Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa.

day 15 - Istanbul

Depart at any time.
Your tour might be finished, but the adventure’s far from over. Pre-book the following activity to experience after your tour ends: Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night in Istanbul.

And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. This activity is available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, or it can be booked upon arrival in Istanbul.

Meal:Breakfast
Optional Activities:Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise
The Best of Greece & Turkey

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What's Included

Accommodation
Hotels (14 nts).
Meals
14 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Note: Allow USD430-560 for meals not included.
Transport
Taxi, private bus, train, private air-conditioned van, plane, walking.All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Guide
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Included activities
Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage, AthensYour G for Good Moment: Çöp(m)adam Visit, AyvalıkYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and GroupYour Foodie Moment: Cooking Class Athens, AthensAthens orientation walkGuided tour of the Acropolis and ParthenonAcropolis and Parthenon entrance feesVisit the site of Thermopylae Information CenterGuided tour of Ancient DelphiVisit the Corinth CanalInternational flight from Athens to IstanbulGallipoli battlefields entrance and guided visitTroy entrance and guided visitEphesus entrance and visitAncient Hierapolis and Pamukkale entrance and guided walkIstanbul city walking tourInternal flight from Pamukkale to Istanbul

What's Excluded

Good to Know

Cancellation
Payment
Travel Insurance
Visa
Other Practical Information

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