tours of turkey and greece

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Greece and Turkey Tours & Trips

Explore sunny Greece and enjoy the food in Athens, the sweeping views of the Greek Islands (Santorini), the nightlife in Mykonos or the history in Crete. Turkey 's beaches are not to be missed either, which is why many travellers choose to visit Antalya. If you'd like to discover more about Turkey's history, Istanbul and Ankara are astounding cities to start learning. Take a Turkey package and Greece vacation !

Filters applied

166 greece and turkey tour packages with 3,560 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural

The Great Odyssey

This was my first travel to Turkey and a solo one at that. I had a very wonderful tour guide(Ozgur) not only is he a professional with great historical and artiscal knowledge of every place visited but he is charming and comedic as well. The food was not as expected but sitting and enjoying the meal with friends I met on this trip made it worthwhile. Cappadocia with its intriguing rock formations and the hot air balloon ride was the icing on the cake for me.

Best of Turkey and Greece with island hopping

the trip flowed nicely.

Magnificent Turkey&3 Nights Iconic Aegean - 11 Days

Turkey is a fabulous country with wonderful and friendly people. The Tour company did an outstanding job of coordination and communication. The Turkey tour with the cruise of the Greek islands was quite pleasant. However, I would strongly recommend NOT going to Santorini. We arrived rather late and it was dark. Then we got off the bus and were herded up a narrow path into the village. It was embarrassing to be a part of the crowd. Had I known this, I would have stayed on the ship to relax.

• Ocean Cruise

Best of Greece (With 4 Days Cruise, 12 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Greece (Idyllic, With 7 Days Cruise, 16 Days)

Italy & Greece with Iconic Aegean Islands Cruise

Our tour guide, Margarita, was sent good and patient, as was Paul, who was on the cruise. Most of the other guides were outstanding, as well. I definitely recommend eating at the hotel in Rome, the food there was better than any of the restaurants in town. Some of the hotels needed some upgrades, but were clean. The experience was amazing and very well planned. I highly recommend this trip!!

Turkish Breeze & 4 Nights Iconic Aegeans - 14 Days

This tour was contracted to smaller day tours. The overall tour company was very responsive and set daily updates for where to meet and when and all transportation was covered. Accommodation was great, although it would have been nice to stay in the old town walls of Antalya. The cruise, while highly organised, was probably a bit too big and very rushed. All your guides had impeccable knowledge of their field and were very friendly. Sometimes the daily itinerary didn’t quite match up to the order listed but all sights were still seen. There were some extra ticket costs not mentioned in the itinerary - usually a few extra hundred lira. Some excursions also had visits to trade centers - carpets, jewelers, leather works, ceramics - and while interesting there often felt pressure to buy.

Classical Greece with Iconic Aegean 3-Night Cruise

Tour was good to excellent. Evie and Christiania were excellent without a doubt. Drivers Dian excellent job also.

Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands

Greece & Aegean Islands Cruise

Good tour. Hotels in the center but some old. A lot of different cities. Cruse ship is not new and around 1,500 people but service was great. I don't recommend any paid excursions on islands

Premium Turkey & The Cyclades Islands

Classical Greece with Iconic Aegean 4-Night Cruise

Istanbul to Athens - 14 days

Turkey guide, Bhuran Coskun, was fabulous. Greece reps were also very good.

Colours of Mediterranean Tour

Kismet from Fez Travel was brilliant and was responded with any questions super quick. Some of the accommodation was a bit far away from the action. Tour guide was very knowledgeable. Overall a great trip with only 11 travelers which was perfect.

Classic Turkey & Greek Islands

This was a great trip. We had someone to help us every step of the way and excellent tour guides! These are also such fun, beautiful locations!

What people love about Greece And Turkey Tours

We first time booked this tour through TourRadar and we really enjoyed it. It covers best locations in both countries. We had some doubts at the beginning because it seems a complicated trip but it went very smoothly till the end. Turkey part is fully escorted while during island hopping in Greece you are traveling privately. It is a well balanced trip, fast pace at the beginning in Turkey and relaxing in Greece. Hotels are well chosen except for Mykonos hotel which was on top of a hill. We appreciate a lot the assistance Alex provided us during whole-trip. He answered all of our stupid questions. Thank you again and we will probably travel again with Eskapas.

Overall the tour was great!. The transportation through out the tour was excellent. Pick up and drop off was always on time. Turkey trip would have been much better with a different guide. Our guide (OZ) was seemed disinterested through out the whole process. We had to google everything. Hotels in Turkey were good except cave hotel in Cappadocia (Not worth the upgrade). We were put in a room across the street from main hotel. The door to the room was covered in vomit. We told the reception and expected it to be cleaned but when we came back in evening it was still there. Very disappointing and disgusting since we paid extra for this hotel. Also the hotels that we had in Turkey and Greece were further away from the city center and required lots of walking or some kind of transportation. Some areas were not safe to walk at night. The hotels should be close city center. Greece over all was good but we should have been given an option to take flight from island to island because we wasted almost 2 days in Ferry. Our Liaison Jenny in Mykonos was very organized and gave us options and advise. While that was not the case in Samos and Santorini.

• Family (137)
• Fully Guided (130)
• In-depth Cultural (57)
• Ocean Cruise (45)
• Sailing (27)
• Coach / Bus (25)
• Personalized (20)

Travel Styles

• Small Group (13)
• Luxury (13)
• Singles and Solo (87)
• For Couples (65)
• Seniors (52)
• 10 Day Tours (32)
• 2 Week Tours (32)
• 3 Week Tours (32)
• Spring 2024 (57)
• Summer 2024 (89)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (89)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (15)
• Spring 2025 (34)
• Summer 2025 (20)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (19)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (1)
• April 2024 (36)
• May 2024 (75)
• June 2024 (86)
• July 2024 (85)
• August 2024 (83)
• September 2024 (87)
• October 2024 (67)
• November 2024 (21)
• December 2024 (12)
• January 2025 (14)
• February 2025 (15)
• March 2025 (24)
• April 2025 (18)
• May 2025 (22)
• June 2025 (18)
• July 2025 (17)
• August 2025 (17)
• September 2025 (18)
• October 2025 (15)
• November 2025 (3)

• Europe Tours
• Greece & Turkey Tours

Greece & Turkey Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Located on the eastern edge of Europe, both Turkey and Greece are rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Popular with travelers for their beautiful weather, stunning coastlines along the Lycian Way, and amazing architecture and ruins at Delos and Ephesus, Turkey and Greece are a match made in heaven for a dual-nation tour. Taking a combined tour of these two neighboring countries offers visitors the opportunity to dive into two ancient, but distinct cultures, sights and foods.

29 Trips in Greece & Turkey with 763 Reviews

• Starts Athens, Greece
• Ends Istanbul, Turkey

Best Of Greece And Turkey With 3-day Cruise

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel & Ship Cabin
• Transport Flight, Cruise Ship, Ferry, Private Vehicle, Bus & Minibus
• Age Range 6-80 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,328
• Special Deal (4%): - US$ 133
• Total Price from: US$ 3,195
• Jun 05 10+ seats left
• Jul 03 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Classic Turkey & Greek Islands

• Trip customizable
• Activities Cruise & Beach Cruise , Beach , Volcanoes , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Farm and plantation visits , Active and outdoor & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='17987'>+6 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach, Ferry, Boat & Minibus
• Age Range 8-95 yrs

• Ends Athens, Greece

Classical Greece And Turkey With 3 Days Cruise

• Transport Flight & Cruise Ship
• Operated in English, Spanish
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,300
• Special Deal (4%): - US$ 132
• Total Price from: US$ 3,168
• May 01 10+ seats left

• Starts Istanbul, Turkey

Best Of Turkey And Greece With Island Hopping

• Transport Ferry, Boat, Bus & Coach
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,245
• Special Deal (3%): - US$ 97
• Total Price from: US$ 3,148
• Apr 20 10+ seats left
• Apr 27 10+ seats left

Flavours Of Turkey And Greece -i-

• Transport Flight, Boat, Coach, Cruise Ship, Ferry, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,090
• Special Deal (3%): - US$ 63
• Total Price from: US$ 2,027
• Apr 21 10+ seats left
• Apr 28 10+ seats left

Colours of Mediterranean Tour

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits Natural landmarks sightseeing , Museum and gallery visits , Local culture & Cruise 'data-more-tripid='18285'>+2 more
• Transport Ferry & Boat
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 05 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 12 Only 9 seats left

Aegean Odyssey Tour

• Activities Cruise & Beach Cruise , Beach , Volcanoes , Museum and gallery visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , War sites & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='18283'>+5 more
• Jun 12 10+ seats left

Istanbul to Athens - 14 days

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & War sites Cultural, religious and historic sites , War sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='15985'>+2 more
• Transport Flight, Ferry & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• May 04 Only 8 seats left
• May 11 Only 8 seats left

Diamonds of Mediterranean Tour

• Activities Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing Museum and gallery visits , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Local culture , Art and architecture & Waterfalls 'data-more-tripid='22669'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Jun 12 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 26 10+ seats left

Istanbul to Athens Explorer

• Activities City sightseeing & Local culture
• Transport Minibus & Flight
• May 10 10+ seats left

• Ends Santorini, Greece

Premium Turkey & The Cyclades Islands in Depth

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Luxury & Beach Luxury , Beach & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='36212'>+1 more
• Transport Boat, Ferry, Flight, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 11,360
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 1,704
• Total Price from: US$ 9,656
• Apr 28 Only 4 seats left
• Apr 30 Only 8 seats left

Constantinople To Hellas Tour

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & War sites Cultural, religious and historic sites , War sites , Local culture & Cruise 'data-more-tripid='18286'>+2 more
• Jun 01 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 08 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Rome, Italy

Rome Athens and Istanbul City Package

• Tour Type Independent Tour
• Transport Flight, Bus, Coach, Boat, Ferry & Private Vehicle
• Apr 25 10+ seats left
• May 02 10+ seats left

Essential Greece and Istanbul

• Activities Beach & Chill out Beach , Chill out & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='38828'>+1 more
• Transport Flight & Coach
• Apr 22 10+ seats left
• Apr 29 10+ seats left

Greece & Turkey Tour Reviews

Greece and turkey — tour highlights and travel tips.

Tour Highlights

• Head for an Aegean escape starting in Kusadasi . Combine the relaxing natural beach landscapes of Santorini with the small-town island charm of Mykonos, all while weaving in historical sites from across the two nations. Marvel at the Acropolis or enjoy the mecca of Ancient Greece on the island of Delos on a Greece and Turkey tour that marries culture and history.
• Gaze at the wonders of the Mediterranean by hopping across the stunning Greek islands and taking in the incredible architectures and temples that have stood for millennia at Delos and Samos. Travel via ferry between the sun-drenched and historic isles of Santorini and Mykonos, before journeying across to Kusadasi in Turkey.
• Commence your 15-day of cycling tour on the stunning Greek island of Rhodes, before tracing the coastline around Turkey on an active Greek and Turkey tour. Discover Turkish cuisine in Patara, visit the ancient city of Myra, where the tour gets biblical, and keep yourself inspired as you gazer out across the turquoise sea.
• A classic escorted tour of Greece and Turkey can hit all the hotspots from the naturally occurring geological wonders of Pamukkale to the historic ruins of Athens and Ephesus. Explore the natural landscapes, learn more about history, or just kick back and relax on the beach.
• For one of the best cultural tours in Greece and Turkey, follow a historical and biblical Greek and Turkey tour that winds through towns and cities of the past. Learn about the ancient art of carpet weaving, see the Temple of Apollo, and wander the hallowed and famous steps along the Silk Road.

Travel Tips

• One of the best ways to get around Turkey and Greece is by boat. As there are so many islands and huge stretches of coastline, the water is the way forward.
• Although there are a lot of ATMs in main towns and cities, many small businesses and restaurants still do not accept cards, especially for small purchases like coffee.
• Despite the reputation that Greece and Turkey have for scorching weather, the winter months are drastically colder, with Turkey receiving snowfall in its prominent ski resorts.
• Most travelers can visit Greece visa-free, but not Turkey. So make sure you apply for a Turkey visa well in advance.

Recommended Duration for a Greece and Turkey Tour

To enjoy the best combined tour of Greece and Turkey, we recommend setting aside at least 14 days. The duration affords you ample opportunity to live out your Mamma Mia fantasies on Mykonos, explore the ruins of Ephesus , stretch your legs on the Lycian Way, and chill out on the beaches of Santorini.

Best Times to go on a Greece and Turkey Tour

The best times to visit Greece and Turkey are in either April-May, or September-November. This way you can avoid the oppressive heat and crowds of the summer months. Also, a lot of coastal businesses and resorts shut down in the low season (November-March) due to the lack of tourism, so it is best to avoid this period unless you are visiting a ski resort in Turkey.

FAQs for Greece and Turkey Tour

Is it easy traveling between Greece and Turkey? It is relatively easy to travel between Greece and Turkey, with plenty of ferries going between Greek islands and the Turkish mainland. If you are traveling from the Greek mainland, you can either fly, drive, or take one of the many regular buses. Unfortunately, there is no longer a train route between the two countries.

How do I arrange a visa for a combined Greece and Turkey tour? Greece is in the Schengen Zone so many nationals, including the US, Canadian and Australian, can enter the country and stay for up to 90 days. You will, however, need a visa to enter Turkey. As Turkey has an e-visa service, you can apply online before you travel to the country.

How long is the ferry between Greece and Turkey? Depending whereabouts in Greece you are departing from, ferries to Turkey can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes. Of course, some of the Greek islands are much closer to the Turkish mainland than others, and some have more established routes that may be faster and more regular.

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Greece & Turkey: Athens, Greek Islands Cruise & Istanbul

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Get a taste of East and West by way of two cultural powerhouses.

The Athenians and the Ottomans. The Spartans and the Seljuks. Over the centuries, Greece and Turkey have indelibly influenced world history and culture. This 15-day tour introduces you to their biggest hits and hidden highlights—from Athens to Istanbul over the Aegean’s blue waves. Cruise from the Greek capital to the Turkish coast via the islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Rhodes. Spend some time in beautifully preserved Ephesus before finishing with the bookends of the Ottoman Empire: its first and final capitals of Bursa and Istanbul. Want to add more landscapes to all that art and architecture? Cover Cappadocia on this trip’s extension.

Your tour package includes

• 10 nights in handpicked hotels
• 3 nights aboard a Greek island cruise ship
• 13 breakfasts
• 7 dinners with beer or wine

Included highlights

• Windmills in Mykonos Town
• Santorini’s Oia village
• Rhodes’ walled Old Town
• Urla Peninsula wine tasting

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Athens today.

Welcome to Greece! Land in Athens, Europe’s oldest capital city and “the cradle of Western civilization.” Transfer to your hotel and relax for a while before meeting your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

Meet up with a local guide for an introduction to Greece’s bustling capital, home to the world’s first democracy and over 3,400 years of recorded history.

• Pass by three points of interest: the Panathenaic Stadium, Syntagma Square, and the Arch of Hadrian. Now home to various local soccer teams, the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely out of marble—the only such stadium in the world. Syntagma Square memorializes the signing of the first Greek constitution in 1844, following an armed rebellion against the rule of King Otto. Carved from marble and standing since the second century, the Arch of Hadrian is an iconic landmark of modern-day Athens.
• View the ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Built less than a kilometer from the Acropolis, this structure dates back to the sixth century B.C. and, when intact, was the largest temple in Ancient Greece.
• See the classically inspired Old Royal Palace, home of the Hellenic Parliament, and drive through Plaka—the historic “neighborhood of the gods” built in the shadow of the Acropolis.
• Set off on a walking tour around the Acropolis of Athens, a millennia-old, UNESCO-listed citadel and the enduring image of Greece. First properly developed by the renowned politician Pericles, it now contains the ruins of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and dozens of other archaeological sites.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Athens or add an excursion.

Greek Tavern Evening

From $75 per person

Enjoy a free day in Athens or add an excursion. (Love Greek mythology? You’ll love this excursion to Delphi: the place the ancients considered to be the center of the world.)

From $119 per person

Make your way to Piraeus—Athens’ port and the largest passenger terminal in Europe— to board your Greek cruise ship. Get settled in your stateroom and enjoy an included lunch and dinner (with plenty of relaxation in between) as you sail to iconic Mykonos. Rising out of the Aegean Sea, this rocky Cycladic Island ranks as one of the most popular in all of Greece.

• Disembark and join your Tour Director for an evening walk through the island’s charming Old Town. Dubbed Chora (simply “town”), Mykonos’ main settlement is a beautiful network of brilliant white homes, cerulean doors, and pops of bougainvillea.
• See the island’s windmills—some of which are visible from any point in the old town—the seaside Little Venice neighborhood, and the 17th-century Church of Panagia Paraportiani.
• Enjoy free time to explore Chora’s vibrant, labyrinthine alleys, made even more dazzling by the Mykonian moonlight.

Continue sailing along the Aegean Sea and disembark for a tour of Santorini, a popular vacation destination known for its black-sand beaches, cliff-lined shores, and archetypal Cycladic architecture. (Blue domes, white walls—you know what we mean!)

• Upon arrival, meet your local guide and take a tender boat to port, where you’ll transfer to the picturesque village of Oia.
• Take in views of Santorini’s famous caldera, the legacy of an eruption that decimated the area in 1600 B.C.
• Head to Fira, the island’s clifftop capital and cultural center, for some time to yourself.
• Return to your ship for an included lunch or stay in town for a while longer, enjoying panoramic vistas and famous landmarks like the aptly named Three Bells of Fira.

Set sail for Rhodes and sit down for an included dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine, aboard the ship this evening.

Today, disembark in Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands and the former site of an ancient wonder of the world: the Colossus of Rhodes. Forged from bronze and iron in the third century B.C., this statue of the Greek sun-god Helios once stood as tall as the Statue of Liberty.

• Experience the island’s one-of-a-kind cultural heritage at your leisure or sign up for a shore excursion.
• Return to the ship for an included lunch or continue exploring Rhodes in your free time. If you’re looking for a recommendation, we’d suggest visiting its walled Old Town. Fortified by the Knights of Saint John over the course of three centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by a 2.5-mile-long wall and contains a collection of Christian and Muslim monuments.

Return to your ship this evening for an included dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine, and chart a course for the Turkish coast.

Please note: Travelers will be able to add shore excursions directly through the cruise line once on board.

Disembark your cruise in Çeşme, Turkey, and meet your new Tour Director. Then, transfer to Alaçatı, a charming seaside town with an interesting place in history. First settled by Greek Orthodox Christians in the 17th century, it underwent a significant shift in 1923 when, in the aftermath of the Greco-Turkish War, a treaty dictating a population exchange between the two countries was signed.

Join your Tour Director for a short walking tour of Alaçatı’s twisting streets, stone houses, and boutique shops before enjoying free time to explore on your own. Later, stop at a local winery to sample some of the Urla Wine Route’s fine vintages. Enjoy a tasting, paired with local snacks, before continuing on to your hotel in the Ephesus region, a historic area on Turkey’s west coast. Tonight, sit down for an included dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

Please note: On tours departing in March, April, May, September, and October, the cruise will disembark in Kuşadası. In this case, day 8’s activities will shift to day 9.

Join your Tour Director on a guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient Greek cities in the Mediterranean region.

• Discover its UNESCO-listed sites including the Library of Celsus (one of the last extant examples of the ancient world’s great libraries) and the ruins of the Basilica of St. John (said to have been built over the final resting place of John the Apostle).
• View the 2,300-year-old Great Theatre, a hulking 25,000-seat arena that’s used as a performance venue to this day.
• Step inside the House of the Virgin Mary, a Catholic shrine where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final days.

Spend a free evening in the Ephesus region or add an excursion to a meyhane—a traditional Turkish wine house.

Please note: On tours that depart in March, April, May, September, or October, today’s activities will shift to Day 8.

Traditional Turkish Meyhane Dinner

From $65 per person

Head north along the Aegean coast to Bursa, stopping by the ruins of Pergamon en route. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this settlement was once a powerful Ancient Greek city.

• Take a cable car to the top of the Acropolis, where you’ll find the ruins of ancient Greek temples; a 10,000-capacity Hellenistic age theater; a gymnasium; and the once-great Library of Pergamon—the second largest in the Ancient Greek world after the Library of Alexandria.
• See where the Pergamon Altar, widely considered the eighth wonder of the ancient world, once stood.
• Hear how the altar’s famous marbles, depicting various scenes from Greek mythology, removed by German archaeologists and transported to Berlin in the early 20th century, remain there to this day.

Continue on to Bursa, a bustling city located on the famed Silk Road. After settling into your hotel, gather for an included dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

Spend a free morning in Bursa or add an excursion to the old Ottoman village of Cumalıkızık.

Later, get to know the Ottoman Empire’s first capital on a guided tour with your Tour Director.

• Enter the Green Mosque, widely considered to be the finest example of early Ottoman architecture in the world.
• Move on to the Green Tomb, and admire the opulence of the final resting place of Mehmed I, fifth sultan of the Ottoman Empire.
• Explore Ulu Camii—the Grand Mosque of Bursa, which was commissioned by Sultan Bayezid I, built in the Seljuk style, and has an imposing structure featuring a roof made up of 20 domes.
• Enjoy free time to wander the Koza Han, once the center of the city’s silk trade and a key caravanserai along the Silk Road.
• Enter its charming shops and tea houses and relax a little before going about the rest of your day.

Please note: Travelers are required to remove or cover their shoes when entering the Green Mosque and Ulu Camii. Additionally, women are required to wear a head scarf.

Cumalıkızık & Village Breakfast

From $45 per person

Travel to Istanbul—one of the only cities in the world that spans two continents—and set off on a tour of its vibrant streets and historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites with your Tour Director as your guide.

• Step inside the Hagia Sophia: a beautifully ornamented mosque (and former church) that held the title of world’s largest building for nearly 1,000 years.
• Walk to and climb down into the sixth-century Basilica Cistern.
• Explore its vast water-collecting area, held up by 336 marble columns, and see if you can track down the famous Medusas carved into a pair of their bases.
• Visit the Hippodrome, once considered the athletic and social center of the Byzantine capital of Constantinople.

Please note: On some departures, the visit to the Basilica Cistern may take place on Day 13. Also, when entering the Hagia Sophia, travelers are required to remove or cover their shoes. Women are required to wear a head scarf.

Spend the morning diving into the history of the Ottoman Empire, as well as Istanbul’s religious traditions, alongside your Tour Director.

• Explore the Blue Mosque, named for the colorful tiles adorning its interior, and sit down to learn about Ottoman Islamic traditions.
• Enter Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, during a tour of its grounds.

Enjoy a free afternoon in the city, or opt to set out on a cruise of one of the world’s most important waterways, on today’s excursion.

Please note: Travelers are required to remove or cover their shoes when entering the Blue Mosque.

Bosphorus Straits Cruise

From $85 per person

Spend your last day in Istanbul exploring the city on your own time, or add an excursion to the bustling stalls of Kadiköy Market.

Tonight, rejoin your group and celebrate your trip during a farewell dinner, served with your choice of beer or wine.

Kadikoy Market Tour & Lunch

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your stay to explore Cappadocia’s mystifying landscapes.

Fly from Istanbul to one of the airports outside of the Cappadocia region. Then, transfer to Cappadocia where you’ll spend a free evening, or get a glimpse of its spiritual traditions on tonight’s excursion.

Whirling Dervishes

From $59 per person

Today, pay a visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum—a UNESCO-listed collection of fresco-adorned churches, carved into volcanic rock, which date back to the fourth century.

• See the fairy chimneys, spectacular rock formations that stretch as high as 130 feet into the sky.
• Visit a cave village and a rock-carved church.
• Stop in Avanos—a town of just under 15,000 people—to discover a craftwork that has typified the area since 1650 B.C.: red clay pottery.

Enjoy a free afternoon or add a particularly tasty excursion.

Cappadocia Valley Walk & Wine Tasting

Enjoy one last free morning in Cappadocia, or add an excursion for a more structured experience.

This afternoon, fly back to Istanbul, where you’ll raise a glass and toast to your trip with a farewell drink.

Underground City

From $55 per person

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This elegant hotel is located in the Metaxourgeio neighborhood of Athens. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the Acropolis, a fitness center, and a rooft...

This modern cruise ship sails the Aegean Sea and features spacious cabins, gourmet meals, an outdoor pool, a beauty salon, daily activities, nightly s...

This comfortable hotel is located just outside of the Kusadasi City Center. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, a private beach area, and a fitness center....

This world-class hotel is located in Bursa. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and sauna. Nearby you’ll find the Ataturk Museum, the Resat...

This lavish hotel is located in the center of old Istanbul. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, a Turkish bath, and bicycle rentals. Nearby, you’ll find the...

This contemporary hotel is located in Cappadocia. Guests enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a Turkish bath, and laundry services. Nearby, you’ll find the...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• Aboard the M/V Gemini , you’ll enjoy multiple dining and entertainment options, a swimming pool, gym, and library. See a detailed summary of the ship’s deck plan on their website .
• All cabins on this tour are standard cabins with a view of the water and come equipped with air conditioning, a telephone, hair dryer, safe, and television.
• In order to enter Greece and Turkey, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• There is no visa required to enter Turkey for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GTR.
• You will walk for about two hours daily across moderately uneven terrain, including cobblestone streets, dirt paths, wooden platforms, and some hills and steps.
• You should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of ferries.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide ongoing assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• You will have two separate Tour Directors on this tour: one for Greece and one for Turkey.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Athens and depart from Istanbul. When you first arrive, a representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. If you don’t see them, please remain in the arrival lounge: They might be escorting one of your fellow travelers.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who’ve purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchased their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• A three-night Greek Islands cruise is included in the price of your tour.
• A round-trip flight between Istanbul and either Kayseri or Nevşehir is included in the price of the tour extension.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches, ferries, flights, and other modes of transportation.
• Contact your airline(s) for the luggage restrictions for your itinerary. Please note that on-tour flights may have tighter size and weight limits than your round-trip airfare to and from tour.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any bags or exceed their size and weight restrictions. Be advised: You’re responsible for any luggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• Churches, mosques, and other religious sites require visitors to cover bare legs and shoulders; you may be denied entry on this basis. Women should bring a light scarf or a head covering.
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your healthcare provider, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov , for the latest updates and entry requirements.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour, as well as any possible delays you may encounter.
• Please note that codeine (commonly found in headache medications) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country.
• Certain over-the-counter and prescription medications may be banned in Turkey. Importing these drugs can carry severe consequences, including imprisonment. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to departure to ensure that any drugs you may want to bring with you are legal in Turkey.
• If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging into your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• Greece’s warm climate ensures a constant supply of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. Salads served with aromatic olive oil, feta cheese, and oregano are plentiful, as are dishes centered on grilled fish, meat, squid, and octopus. One of our favorite plates? Spanakopita—a savory mix of spinach, cheese, and seasonings, wrapped in phyllo dough and baked to crisp perfection.
• In Turkey, breakfast typically consists of sourdough bread with sheep’s cheese and olives, as well as jam or honey. A midday meal or dinner often starts with a meze: a plate of varied appetizers like cheesy pastry rolls, pickled vegetables, and potato fritters. On the coast, fish is an excellent choice, especially tuna, turbot, and sardines. Carnivores should try the lamb kebab: Prepared in a variety of ways and served with different sauces and dressings, it’s sure to satisfy. And while tea is the national drink, be sure to try Turkish coffee. This strong brew is prepared with ultra-fine coffee grounds and spices like cardamom, resulting in a rich, aromatic drink. (Sip slowly, though: It’s served unfiltered!)
• Greece and Turkey operate on the European standard of 220–240 volts and use Type C, E, or F plugs with two small, round pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or any device without one built in.
• The strength of the air conditioning in European hotels is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it’s usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Greece and Turkey are two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and seven hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET). Please note that Turkey does not observe daylight saving time.
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 7pm on tour.
• You’ll use the euro in Greece and the Turkish lira in Turkey.
• Better exchange rates are usually available overseas, but it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed. You can also use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10–$12USD per person, per day for your Tour Director, and the equivalent of $3USD per person, per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you’re on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for optional excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for it to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See the last page of your tour itinerary for more information.

Compare similar tours

4.7 out of 5 stars

4.8 out of 5 stars

No products in the cart.

10-Day Tour of Turkey and Greece

$ 2,109.00   per person

Start in Istanbul and end in Athens! This 10-day tour of Turkey and Greece leads you through Istanbul, Cappadocia, Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, and Delphi. Experience an odyssey like no other on this journey to Turkey Greece in 10 days.

Obtain your tour price in USD by selecting tour dates and specifics below:

Please Pick a Tour start Date

• Detailed Itinerary
• Inquire About This Trip
• Reviews (0)

Day 1:  Arrive in Istanbul

Upon your arrival at Istanbul New Airport(IST) or Sabiha Gökcen Airport(SAW), our team will be waiting for you at the exit of the international line of the Airport, holding a sign with your name written on it. After which, you will be transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is free for you to spend at leisure. Alternatively, you can join the Night Cruise on the  Bosphorus with Dinner & Show .

• Overnight in Istanbul
• Included Meal(s): No meals are included on this day
• Accommodation: Muyan Suites OR Antea Hotel OR Ayasultan Hotel OR Deluxe Golden Horn Hotel or similar (Standard quality)

Day 2: Istanbul Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Tour

After breakfast at the hotel, You will be picked up from your hotel at around 8:30 am in the morning to join the full-day Istanbul old city tour. The first stop of today’s Turkey and Egypt tours is Hagia Sophia , a former church that was converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Then we will go to visit the opposite  Blue Mosque . The mosque’s six minarets demonstrate its supremacy and glory. Next, we will visit the Hippodrome  and  Topkapi Palace , which was the residence of Ottoman Sultans between the 15th and 19th centuries. After visiting these tourist attractions, the guide will escort you to the bustling  Grand Bazaar  to experience the life of the locals. After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3:  Fly to Cappadocia – North Cappadocia Tour

You will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul around 4:30 am and will be transferred to the domestic airport for your flight from Istanbul to Kayseri or Nevsehir between 6:00 – 7:30 am. Upon arrival at Kayseri or Nevsehir airport, you will be picked up and transferred to Cappadocia . In Cappadocia, you will meet your professional tour guide to begin your full-day tour of North Cappadocia. On the tour today, you will visit the  Devrent Valley  and  Monk’s Valley (Pasabag)  and enjoy local cuisine in the quiet town of  Avanos.  After lunch, we will visit the  Goreme Open Air Museum  and  Uchisar Rock Castle . After the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel in Cappadocia for check-in.

• Overnight in Cappadocia
• Accommodation: Holiday Cave Hotel OR Heaven Cave House OR Ottoman Cave Suites or similar (Standard quality)

Day 4:  South Cappadocia Tour

For an additional option, you can book an early morning   hot air balloon ride   and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the valleys. Please be aware that this activity comes at an extra cost.

After breakfast at the hotel around 9:30 am, you will be picked up and met by your tour guide to begin your full-day tour of South Cappadocia. Your tour guide will brief you on the day’s activities. Your tour will begin with a visit to the  Red Valley  where you will be able to explore the famous rock-cut churches and hike approximately 5 km through the  Güllüdere (Rose) Valley . Next, you will visit  Çavusin village  which is famous for its houses and churches of the Christian Clergymen. We will take a break for lunch around noon. After lunch, you will drive to the  Pigeon Valley . In the afternoon you will visit the  Kaymakli Underground City  or  Ozkonak Underground City where early Christians lived. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Cappadocia.

Day 5: Fly from Kayseri to Athens (Flight Not Included) – Airport Pick-up

After breakfast, you will proceed to Kayseri Airport to board your international flight to Athens. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative and will be transferred to your Athens hotel for check-in. The rest of the day will be free.

Note: You will have to purchase your own international flight ticket(s); international flight ticket(s) are not included in the cost of this package tour and will not be provided by us.

• Overnight in Athens
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast
• Accommodation: Chic Hotel OR Delice Hotel Apartments OR Athens One Smart Hotel OR Athenaeum Smart or similar (Standard quality)

Day 6: Athens City Tour with Cape Sounion

This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Our expert guides will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian’s Arch, the Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma). On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and finally “the harmony between material and spirit”, the monument that “puts order in the mind”, the Parthenon. Continue and visit the place where at last the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The new Acropolis museum.

Continue in a local restaurant for lunch.

After lunch drive along the coastal road, passing the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni & Varkiza to the most Southern point of Attica, Cape Sounion, where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand. On the way, you have a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf and the little islands offshore. After visiting the Temple of Poseidon, you have time to walk at leisure on the rocky promontory of Sounion.

• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and lunch

Day 7: Athens to Nafplion via the Corinth Canal

We will pick you up from select spots in Athens (departure at approx 8:45) and take the coastal road to the Corinth Canal, where we will make a short stop. Back on the road and onto the Theatre of Epidaurus, a monument to the arts and a structure famous for its remarkable acoustics. We will then proceed to the town of Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece, for a short stop to take pictures and drive on to Mycenae where we will visit the archaeological site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then it’s off to Olympia, the cradle of the Olympic games, through the scenic routes of Central Peloponnese, as well as the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. It is there that we will stop for the night.

• Overnight in Olympia
• Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Accommodation: 1-night stay in a first-class hotel

Day 8: Olympia to Delphi

You cannot visit Olympia and not pay tribute to the ruler of Olympus, so that is what we will do in the morning with a visit to the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium, and the archaeological museum. Afterwards, we will take a drive through the plains of Ilia and Achaia and the magnificent bridge of Rio-Antirio which connects the two sides of the Corinthian Bay. We will pass by the picturesque towns of Nafpaktos (Lepanto) and Itea, to arrive in Delphi, our own sanctuary for the night.

• Overnight in Delphi

Day 9: Delphi and Return to Athens via Arachova, Levadia and Thebes

In the morning, we will visit the archaeological site where the Oracle once stood and the museum. Afterwards, we will make our way back to Athens passing through the picturesque towns of Arachova, Levadia and Thebes along the way.

Day 10: Departure from Athens

After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel in Athens (hotel check-out is before 11:00 am) and will then be transferred to the Athens International Airport according to your flight details. This will be the end of our tour and services.

INCLUDED in the Tour Price:

• All transfers within Turkey and Greece.
• Domestic flight tickets from Istanbul to Kayseri only
• 9 nights accommodation.
• English-speaking guide during the tours.
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch D=dinner).
• Visits and entrances fees as indicated in the itinerary.
• Local taxes and service charges.

NOT INCLUDED:

• International Flight Tickets.
• Flight tickets from Kayseri to Athens.
• Entry visas to Turkey and Greece.
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride.
• Stayover hotel tax, to be paid directly to the hotels in Greece (cost per overnight per room: 4 star – 3 €, 3 star – 1,5 €).
• Drinks, tips, and any other services not mentioned in what’s included.
• Optional tours mentioned in the program, they will be provided at an additional cost.
• Travel insurance (recommended).

IMPORTANT INFO:

• The order of the itinerary is indicative and subject to change, but all visits described will take place.
• This is a regular group tour, but if requested at cost can be provided as a private tour.
• Please note that the Blue Mosque is not open for visitation on Fridays as it is closed for religious prayer services. You will only be able to visit the outside of the Blue Mosque area on tours operated on Fridays. No visitation will be allowed inside the Blue Mosque for tourists on Fridays.
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesday, it will be replaced with the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnici).
• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sunday.
• During religious holidays, the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar are closed.

Inquire About this Trip

Please fill out the information below and we will be in touch shortly with your personalized quote.

There are no reviews yet.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your review  *

Name  *

Email  *

Other itineraries you may be interested in

4 Days Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Ephesus Tour from Istanbul by Plane

5-Day Turkey tour from Izmir: Ephesus, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

5 Days Cappadocia, Pamukkale and Ephesus and Troy Tour from Istanbul

Start planning your trip.

Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Greece: In the Footsteps of Paul the Apostle

About this tour.

Follow the path of Paul the Apostle as you discover bucolic beauty and ancient history on this Grecian sojourn. Enjoy a 3-night cruise of the magical Greek islands of Mykonos, Patmos and Santorini. Visit the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, Turkey. Explore the Acropolis in Athens. Discover the biblical town of Corinth and see the Agora and the Bema, where Paul was brought before the tribunal. Stop in Philippi, where Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe and baptized Lydia, the first Christian. On your journey, feel the spirit of the New Testament as you visit the places where the great apostle lived and preached.

Your Tour Includes

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Taverna Dinner Show
• The Acropolis

Your Tour at a Glance

9 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

$1,199.00 pp

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Explore ancient Corinth on a guided tour featuring the Agora.

Admire the view from the Acropolis, home to the legendary Parthenon.

Journey to Kavala where Paul first set foot on European soil.

Cultural Experiences:

Visit 2 breathtaking monasteries in Meteora and learn about the resident monks.

Take in the views of Santorini’s volcanic caldera and towering cliffs from your cruise ship.

Feast on local Greek cuisine and fine wine in a traditional taverna.

• 3-Night Cruise
• Thessaloniki

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

Share This Tour

Looking to add your itinerary for friends and family? Share your Itinerary

Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Spiritual Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Extend your spiritual journey with a 3-night sojourn in Rome and follow in the footsteps of the Apostles Peter and Paul visiting St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican as well as the Mamertine prison where Paul was incarcerated, the Abbey of Tre Fontane where he was martyred and the basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls built to memorialize the location where Paul was laid to rest. Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Athens - Rome, Italy - Extension Begins
• Early this morning,* travel from Athens on an inspirational journey to Rome and experience fascinating religious sites connected to the life of Paul the Apostle, recalling both his first and second visits to the city. Pause for a moment of reflection in the Abbey of Tre Fontane (Three Fountains), built on the believed site of Paul’s martyrdom. At the nearby Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, take time to meditate on the Apostle’s tomb. Then, visit the Mamertine Prison, where Paul was arrested, bound in chains and executed. After settling into your hotel in the late afternoon, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring regional delicacies.
• The day is yours to explore more of the Eternal City. Perhaps you will join an optional tour to the Vatican Museums** and St. Peter's Basilica, taking in world-renowned wonders such as the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s mural of The Last Judgment. This optional tour concludes with a visit of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest religious buildings in the world; pause for a moment of reflection by the Confessio, the sunken area directly in front of the tomb of the Apostle and which is dedicated to the Confession of faith by Peter that lead to his martyrdom. Take time to reflect before an evening at leisure. Perhaps you will join an optional dinner in a popular restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a hearty meal accompanied by wine and local entertainment.
• Begin your day exploring one of Rome’s sixty Catacombs. It was in these underground tunnels that early Christians hid and buried their dead. The afternoon is yours to explore more of the Eternal City. Consider strolling through the Borghese Gardens for views of the city’s skyline or meander through Rome’s bohemian Trastevere district. Perhaps you’ll venture back to the Vatican to join into the Papal Blessing traditionally held on Sundays.***
• Rome - Depart for Home
• Your extension comes to a close today. Say arrivederci to Rome as you head to the airport for your flight home.

Hotel-Crowne Plaza Athens City Center

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Crowne Plaza Athens City Center From $115 per night

Crowne Plaza Athens City Center

Celestyal Discovery

Famissi eden hotel, capsis hotel thessaloniki, holiday inn athens attica, trip reviews.

Live, Unedited, & Independent Traveler Reviews

Filter Reviews: All

Fellow Travelers on Tour

Related blog content, an alpine adventure with collette, my first guided tour with collette (i’m coming back for more), top 10 phrases to know for your next trip to sicily, get a taste of sicilian street food, the wines of sicily, greece: a foodie’s dream vacation, similar tours.

Pilgrimage to Fatima & Lourdes with Barcelona

2025 jubilee: the holy year a pilgrimage to rome & assisi.

Israel: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Israel: A Journey of Faith

Shrines of Italy

Not seeing the date you want? We can help!

Call our Customer Care Team to inquire about dates beyond what's currently listed and to make an advanced reservation. You can find our full terms and conditions here .

Request a Quote

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

Find a Travel Agency

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

View or download.

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

See All Turkey Tours

Trending Turkey tours

Save up to $200

Best of Greece

14 Locations

2 Countries

Consider extending your holiday beyond The Best of Greece. Set your sights on the Cyclades and cruise to the idyllic Greek Islands of Mykonos and Santorini.

Save up to $313

Best of Turkey

17 Locations

From the legends of Troy to ancient Greek cities, your travels will reveal the places where history happened. On this in-depth Best of Turkey voyage, you’ll also venture into the Taurus Mountains for lunch with the Yazir community and relax on the shores of the Turkish Riviera.

Save up to $553

Best of Italy and Greece

16 Locations

4 Countries

Admire the art and architecture of Rome and the rich cultural heritage of Florence. Visit the monasteries of Meteora and see the site of the most important oracle in the classical world.

Save up to $375

Highlights of Turkey

15 Locations

Travel along the age-old trading routes that linked East and West, where the Highlights of Turkey are revealed. Haggle in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, daydream through the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia and walk in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks in Ephesus.

Internal flights included

See More Turkey Trips

5 million happy guests and counting

Turkish lira

Capital City

Good morning

Good evening

İyi akşamlar

"It is always my pleasure to introduce my country to our guests. Trafalgar trips in Turkey, the cradle of civilisations, offer not only deep history, wonderful museums, great cities, amazing architecture but breathtaking natural beauty as well"

Barcin, Travel Director

Dine listening to Turkish folk and watching belly dancing

Slip into the Karsilama rhythm for a night of Turkish dance and folk music. The seductive art of belly dancing originated in Egypt but has found an energetic form here in Turkey. Take to the stage and try your hand and hips at these skillful moves. 

See the House of Virgin Mary at Mt. Koressos

A humble stone house dating back to the Apostolic Age, the significance of Mt. Koressos's House of Virgin Mary sits within its Catholic mythology. The site where Jesus's mother was said to spend her last days on earth, this shrine attracts pilgrims from near and far.

Relax in the water of Pamukkale's Cotton Castle Springs

Found in River Menderes valley, the Cotton Castle Springs of Pamukkale will leave you in awe of Mother Nature. Soak in the steaming waters of the travertine terraces that are known for their dense mineral content, allowing plenty of time to photograph the milky blue pools and the snow-like setting.

Savor the intoxicating smells of the Spice Market in Ankara

In the nation's capital, dried fruits, nutty sweets and endless spices will entice your senses. Take time to wander the street of Çıkrıkçılar Yokuşu before moving closer to Ankara Castle, where you can shop for silver and ceramics while eating your delicious snacks.

Visit the peculiar landscapes of Cappadocia

One of the top things to do in Turkey, be amazed by the peculiar landscapes of Cappadocia covered in cave hotels and hot air balloons. Visit the so-called fairy chimney rock formations and discover remarkable beauty in the underground Bronze Age homes.

Our top 5 things to do in Turkey

From the otherworldly hot springs of Pamukkale to the balloon covered valleys of Cappadocia, these are just some of the pinch-me moments to experience on our trips to Turkey.

Hagia Sophia

A 6th-century masterpiece showing the opulence of distant eras, Hagia Sophia is a former cathedral transformed into a mosque before finding its current form as a museum. Stare upwards in awe of dome ceilings and ornate chandeliers before stepping outside to take in the external beauty from various angles.

Istanbul Archeology Museum

Connect with an unfathomable depth of history in Turkey's Archaeology Museums. Featuring three buildings, the collections found here unlock the ancient orient and showcase the finest in Islamic art. Allow a whole day to get lost in the depths of distant eras.

Istanbul Modern

Contemporary Turkish artists take the stage in the museum of Istanbul Modern. Housed in a former maritime warehouse, the building now features a cinema, library, gift shop and restaurant with views of the Bosphorus River. Find hours of entertainment within these progressive walls.

Best museums in Turkey

Ready yourself for dazzling cathedrals, contemporary artworks and archaeological marvels on your Turkey trip. Trafalgar will take you under the skin of this country through its soul-stirring museum collection.

Pistachios, pastry and honey come together to create the delicious sweet of baklava. Connected to stories of Sultans and layered with history, sample this treat many times over in the name of culture. Find many moreish trays in any Turkish food market.

Fill your tour of Turkey with copious amounts of the country's famous bread. Typically filled with stringy cheese and spinach, the pie meets pizza snack perfectly compliments a cup of sweet Turkish tea or a stroll around the city.

Balik Ekmek

Balik Ekmek is a popular street food of oily fish wedged between two layers of soft Turkish bread. Traditionally dished up on a boat direct from the fisherman, find this lunch staple and enjoy it while walking along the Bosporus River.

Best food in Turkey

A tantalizing blend between Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, we'll uncover the very best of Turkish food. From baklava to cheesy pides, with many glasses of hot tea in between.

What to pack for Turkey

A thirst for adventure

A Turkish Hammam scrub is a ritual you need to enjoy when visiting this country. Often teamed with communal bathing and occasionally requiring full nudity, pack your confidence to enjoy this tradition that is truly doing as the locals do.

Modest clothing

Turkey is a religious and somewhat traditional country. Pack modest full-length clothing so you can respectfully enjoy momentous religious sights.

A good camera

A smartphone won't suffice when trying to capture a peculiar desert framing a sky of hot air balloons. Pack a good camera so you can snap Turkey to its full beauty.

Old swimwear

Dense in minerals, Turkey's Pamukkale's Cotton Castle Springs may aggravate your swimming clothes should you take a dip. Pack something old and submerge until your heart is content.

Spare suitcase space

Baklava, tea, carpets and jewelry are just some of the goods that will entice you when shopping in Turkey. Leave space for the many treats and trinkets you will want to take home.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Italy Test 02

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Media & Press Room

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Ancient Worlds of Greece and Turkey Discovery

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1534  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

• Trip Overview

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Request a Quote

Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration.

Open the doors to historic wonderment on this 16-day Greece and Turkey tour that will unveil the best of the ancient world. Start in Athens, exploring the origins of Ancient Greece, then move from the coast to the mountains, where deeper connections with ancient heritage unravel from the extraordinary ruins. This history adventure in Turkey will introduce you to cultural influences that prevail from Izmir to Istanbul.

Customizable Itinerary

Athens - arrival in the grecian capital.

You arrive in Athens for the first day of your vacation and will spend the afternoon acclimating to the heart of Ancient Greece. Fifth-century BC landmarks command attention, historic districts bubble with activity, and eclectic neighborhoods capture the creative Grecian atmosphere. The capital is a melting pot of ancient culture and modern lifestyle that you will adore from the moment you arrive. Your transfer through the neighborhoods to your accommodation will reveal the charms of Athens cast in the shadows of the Acropolis.

What's Included:

Athens - The History and Mystery of Ancient Greece

Morning coffee will brew or tea will steep as you wake up to the sounds of Athens springing to life. Locals and visitors gather in town squares, heading off to the little terraces of charming cafés beneath vines that creep across the arches of narrow alleys. You will tour the crumbling columns of the ancient Acropolis citadel. History comes to life from every crack in the columns or fissure in the limestone slabs. While the history of the Acropolis eclipses other monuments, the mysteries shrouding the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion are just as tempting.

Crete - Roam by Air or Sea to Greece’s Largest Island

Mornings in Athens are magic. The sunlight illuminates the Acropolis, the towns simmer with excitement, and the cafés swing their doors open to serve hungry adventurers waking up early to leave for their next destination. After breakfast, you will collect your belongings and transfer to the Athens International Airport or the Port of Piraeus. You can fly or ferry from Athens to Crete, choosing between seeing the sweeping blue seas or soaring over the water to save some time. Either way, the journey will take you to Greece’s largest and most popular island.

Crete - Cultivate Your Love of Cretan Culture

Cretan life is colorful and you will adore your first morning in the bustling city of Chania as a delectable spread of Greek treats arrives at your breakfast table. After tucking into your mouthwatering Mediterranean meal you will join your guide on a tour of the hidden treasures of the former Kissamos province. White-washed churches with ochre roofs riddle the rocky mountains shadowing the coast, olive groves grow among the rough grassland, and vineyards cover slices of the hills in rich green hues. You will explore the culture, from the landmarks to the cuisine, during your travels.

Crete - The Ottoman Odysseys of Rethymno

Crete’s port city capital Heraklion is a gateway to the Minoan mysteries that envelop the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos. You will venture to this historic archeological site after breakfast, stopping to view the old Ottoman remains scattered amongst the Venetian structures of Rethymno. The fascinating fabrications and fragmented fortresses will backdrop the stories your guide shares as you continue to Neolithic nods to ancient Minoan civilization and culture at the Palace of Knossos. Each destination displays the distinct influences of Greece’s turbulent past.

Crete - The Minoan History of Heraklion

You will return to explore more of Heraklion’s Minoan history this morning, starting with the Minoan Palace of Phaistos. The remains, built during the Protopalatial Period, reflect the remarkable creativity of ancient Minoan engineers. Three large terraces form the cornerstones of the old palace, where you can recount vague Minoan memories through scripted tablets, delicate pottery, and ruined shrines. Your tour will then take you to Gortyn, the first Christian city of Crete, notoriously destroyed by the Saracens who left the ruins of the Acropolis and Odeum behind.

Thessaloniki - Clashing Cultures on the Thermaic Gulf

Cultures clash in the ancient city of Thessaloniki, a destination that swings around the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea. Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman landmarks preserve centuries of influence within the confines of Ano Poli’s winding streets. A tour through the labyrinth of narrow roads will reveal alfresco tavernas, the Vlatadon Monastery, the Church of Hosios David, and more. Colorful frescoes dominate the ceilings, cultural hotspots fortify the heritage, and locals carry their traditions with vibrant performances in Thessaloniki. In the evening you can enjoy dinner by the shore with a glass of Greek wine in hand.

Meteora - The Tombs of Vergine and Monoliths of Meteora

Vergina is a town on the roads that run from Thessaloniki to Meteora. Formerly known as the city of Aigai and recognized as the first capital of Macedonia, Vergina is a treasure trove of history to discover on route to your next destination. The tomb of Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, is a jaw-dropping exhibit that starts your tour to the underground museums of Vergina. You will view ceremonial armor, the illuminated doorway, and archeological findings, before continuing to the holy monastery sculpted into the monumental natural monoliths of Meteora, spending the night nearby.

Delphi - The Oracle of Delphi’s Omnipotence

The charming modern town of Delphi sits in the shadows of the mountains where Pythia, the Oracle of Delphi, would relay messages from the God Apollo to those who made pilgrimages to the ancient religious sanctuary of the same name. You will tour the remains of this spiritual complex, visiting the magnificent monuments and evocative excavations that call forth the mysteries of Ancient Greece, from the ancient theater of Delphi to the Temple of Apollo and more. Your guide will elaborate on the importance of each construct, then take you to a nearby village for dinner under the stars.

Olympia - The Origins of the Olympic Games

After breakfast, you will join your guide and cross the Gulf of Corinth along the Rion-Antirion Bridge, a massive cable-stayed bridge that spans the gulf’s shimmering cobalt waters. You will soon arrive at the archeological site of Olympia, the hosting grounds of the original Olympic Games. Standing in the very stadium where the ancient Olympians competed will take your breath away, while touring temples built in honor of the gods Hera and Zeus will enthrall you. Every inch of this idolized site is dripping with the history that shaped the modern Olympic Games.

Argolis - Memories of Ancient Mycenae

You will cross into Argolis within the Peloponnese this morning to uncover the immense history, from Olympia to the coastal town of Nafplion. The ancient Bronze Age archeological grounds of Mycenae are the first stop on your journey across the Argolid Plain. Here you will explore the picturesque landscape and the eminent ruins that once inspired Greek mythology and classical poetry. Many mysteries still shroud Mycenae and your guide will share a wealth of insight into these stories as you explore the main chamber, admire the Cyclopean stonework, and capture images of the lion sculpture poised above the citadel’s entrance.

Izmir - Arrival on Turkey’s Aegean Coast

Having explored Mycenae and the ancient theater of Epidaurus yesterday, you will pack your things and prepare to leave with unforgettable memories of your adventures across Ancient Greece. Your transfer will take you across the Corinth Canal back to Athens, where you will climb onto your plane, bound for Turkey’s Aegean coast. Hemmed into the heart of Izmir, your accommodation is an eyeshot from the antiquity that flows from the city’s archeological sites and bustling neighborhoods. You may indulge in dinner on the seaboard or find a quiet family-run eatery to tuck into your first Turkish meal this evening.

Izmir - Embrace the Wonders of Ephesus

Izmir is full of history and its surrounding Aegean counterparts present deeper connections with ancient Turkish culture for you to discover on a guided tour after breakfast. You will arrive in the old-world city of Ephesus, a destination that presents Greek and Roman empirical architecture, with a dash of Turkish influence. Immemorial stone streets lined with sacred pillars connect the century-old complexes of Ephesus, where decaying temples stand the test of time. Many of these spiritual grounds preserve the worship of gods and goddesses, like Artemis, in symbols and meticulous carvings. Ephesus will prove an inspiring day trip from Izmir.

Istanbul - Arrival in Turkey’s Modern Metropolis

The modern metropolis of Istanbul, straddling the Bosphorus Strait, needs little introduction to travelers familiar with Turkey’s premier destinations. That said, the city shares so much more than the guidebooks do. Your guide will collect you at the airport and you will cruise through Istanbul’s dynamic cultural districts to an accommodation that is thrust in and amongst the action. Your itinerary will leave the afternoon open for you to explore the city at a leisurely pace. From finding unique Turkish delicacies at historic restaurants to catching the tram through nostalgic neighborhoods, you will adore your afternoon in Istanbul.

Istanbul - Tour the Classics of Turkey

Today will represent the last day of your Greece and Turkey vacation, and there will be a wealth to explore before you turn in for the evening. Your guide will escort you to the famous Topkapi Palace Museum and divulge the colorful stories that sing from the embellished monument. The Ottoman-era Blue Mosque is the second stop on your adventure, a vision in sapphire and cyan that preserves centuries of artistic and architectural creativity. A trip through the underground cisterns and the Grand Bazaar will complete your elaborate escape to the classic landmarks of Istanbul.

Istanbul - Farewell Greece and Turkey

You may let the lovely Istanbul atmosphere guide you to the vibrant city streets, where the wafting aromas of baked goods and shaved kebab flow freely in and out of the cobbled streets. Colorful buildings, closely intertwined, house boutique stores and charming cafés for you to browse after breakfast. You may chat with locals, find the perfect reading nook, or snapshot some of the cultural scenery before you return to your room to collect your things. Your transfer will wait for you in the lobby, then take you to the airport for you to catch your flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Admire the colossal Acropolis complex in Athens and tour the historic Temple of Poseidon in Sounion
• Travel to the Kissamos province of Crete to visit ancient olive oil mills, elite wine farms, and beautiful churches and monasteries near Chania
• Uncover the influence of the Ottoman Empire as you peruse the ruins of Rethymno and unearth Minoan civilization at the remains of Knossos
• Discover the depth of Minoan heritage at the Minoan Palace of Phaistos and capture images of the Christian ruins of Gortyn left by the Saracens
• Tour Ano Poli’s profound cultural roots in Thessaloniki as you explore alfresco tavernas, the Vlatadon Monastery, and the Church of Hosios David
• Appreciate the life of Alexander the Great and his father at the tomb of Philip II of Macedon, then journey to the memorable monastery on top of the Meteora monoliths
• Delve into the mysteries of Delphi as you learn more about the Oracle of Delphi and view the revered ruins of the ancient theater of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo
• Stand in the stadium where the first-ever Olympic Games was held to see where it all began as you visit the remarkable archeological site of Olympia
• Adventure through Argolis in the Peloponnese to encounter Bronze Age memories preserved within the fortified walls of Mycenae
• Explore the ancient Turkish city of Ephesus to dote on the Greek and Roman influences dominating Turkey’s timeless archeological sites
• Visit the highlights of Istanbul on a guided city tour to the Topkapi Palace Museum, the Blue Mosque, the underground cisterns, the Grand Bazaar, and more

Starting Price

$6,443  per person (excluding international flights)

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

Reviews of this Travel Agency

4.98 stars based on 300 reviews.

Reviewed By  Kushal S.

Reviewed By  Leah S.

Reviewed By  Jeff K.

Reviewed By  Joe S.

Reviewed By  Nancy a.

Reviewed By  Lori P.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Your Dream Vacation

in 3 simple steps

Describe your dream trip

Get matched with top travel specialists

Book the trip

Help Me Plan My Trip

Free service - no credit card required

• Contact an Expert
• Globus family of brands

A world beyond. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

Adventure is knocking. Turn “never thought I would” into “glad I did” with a budget-friendly tour that includes all the essentials plus a great mix of included excursions and free time. 

Cruising Elevated. Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

Discover Tours

Ways to travel, trip planning, the cosmos difference, europe and britain, north america, south america, africa and middle east, australia and new zealand.

• Central and Eastern Europe
• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• Western Canada
• Eastern Canada
• United States
• Western United States
• Eastern United States
• Southern United States
• South East Asia
• Israel and Jordan
• Kenya and Tanzania
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Explore our Travel Styles

Tour Styles

Go off-the-beaten-path in Europe and North America

Hand-pick your travelling party on a European Private Tour

Experience some of the world's best train journeys

Explore the world with tours of only 20-24 guests

Combine land and sea on a cruise and tour holiday

Tour Themes

Feel rejuvenated and renewed on a Cosmos Faith-based tour

The world's within reach with these value-based tours

Discover some of North America's biggest festivals and events

Taste your way through favourite foodie hotspots

Experience it all on a multi-country tour of Europe

Cosmos makes it easy for solo travellers to see the world

Visit America's most picturesque National Parks

Our Current Tour Deals

Save up to $820 per couple!

Earn Qantas Points on your next Cosmos tour

Book a second tour and save $100 per couple*

Pay no single supplement on select tours*

Before You Book

• Book with Confidence
• Health & Safety
• Welcome Back Credit
• Flights & Transfers

Before You Travel

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Qantas Frequent Flyer
• Visa Services

Meet Cosmos

Awaken your inner explorer with Cosmos

Why true travellers tour

Travel in style on a Cosmos tour

Lighting the path to a better tomorrow

Helping UNICEF Australia help the world

Meet the rest of the family

Join the Globus family of brands team

Get Inspired

View our e-brochure

Travel stories to feed the soul

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Start planning your next holiday

• Globus Family of Brands
• Agent portal

Gods & Goddesses of the Greek Isles

From Asopos to Zeus, Greece is everything. From sun-drenched ruins and sparkling waters to sea-speckled islands and socially thriving squares, a Cosmos Greece tour needs to be at the top of your bucket list! Discover the magic and mythology of the mighty Acropolis in Athens, learn about the first Olympic Games in Olympia, and step back into the Middle Ages in Mystra. Complete your holiday with an Aegean Sea cruise and sail the glorious Greek Isles, topped off with a scenic stop in Turkey’s sparkling Kusadasi coast.  

Greece Highlights

Visit Epidaurus and its ancient open-air theatre. Combining perfect mathematic proportion with excellent acoustics, the outdoor auditorium was once used for the healing of patients from all over Greece and was dedicated to Asklepios, the god of healing.

Explore the heart of Greece in its extraordinary capital where inspiring 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, never fail to amaze! Be transported back in time as you stand in awe of this impressive feat of engineering, considered to be one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world.

Experience pure paradise on the jewel of the Mediterranean. Step into a real-life painting as you witness the contrasts of the turquoise blue sea against the city’s stark, white-washed buildings. Spend time strolling the narrow, winding streets marvelling at postcard-perfect views around every corner.

Popular Greece Tours

Explore the best of greece.

Check out our current Cosmos deals for 2024!

• Contact an Expert
• Globus family of brands

A world beyond. Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

Adventure is knocking. Turn “never thought I would” into “glad I did” with a budget-friendly tour that includes all the essentials plus a great mix of included excursions and free time. 

Cruising Elevated. Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

Discover Tours

Ways to travel, trip planning, the globus difference, europe and britain, north america, south and central america, africa and middle east, australia and new zealand.

• Eastern Europe

Greece and Turkey

• Scandinavia
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands and Belgium
• Western United States
• Eastern United States
• Southern United States
• Eastern Canada
• Western Canada
• Central America
• South East Asia
• Israel and Jordan
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Find Your Way to Travel

Tour Styles

Tailor your holiday with complimentary YourChoice excursions

Go off-the-beaten-path in Europe and North America

Combine the benefits of touring with the freedom of independent travel

Enjoy thinner crowds & thicker wallets by travelling in the low season

Hand-pick your travelling party on a European Private Tour

Go beyond on a world-famous train journey

Explore the world with tours of only 20-24 guests

Combine land and sea on a cruise and tour holiday

Tour Themes

Feel rejuvenated and renewed on a Globus Faith-based tour

Taste your way through favourite foodie hotspots

Experience it all on a multi-country tour of Europe

Globus makes it easy for solo travellers to see the world

Discover some of North America's biggest festivals and events

Visit America's most picturesque National Parks

Our Current Tour Deals

Tours from $2,799!

Experience the world with the Globus family of brands

Earn Qantas Points on your next Globus tour

Before You Book

• Book with Confidence
• Health & Safety
• Welcome Back Credit
• Flights & Transfers

Before You Travel

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Qantas Frequent Flyer
• Visa Services

Meet Globus

We've spent 95 years perfecting your holiday

Why true travellers tour

Explore the world your way

Travel in style on a Globus tour

Lighting the path to a better tomorrow

Helping UNICEF Australia help the world

Meet the rest of the family

Join the Globus family of brands team

Get Inspired

Follow the adventures of Carla, our Globus Guru

View our e-brochure

Travel stories to feed the soul

Get the latest news straight to your inbox

Start planning your next holiday

• Globus Family of Brands
• Agent portal

Beyond the Blue

Greece and Turkey are both synonymous with diverse landscapes, spectacular beauty, sacred archaeological sites, famous myths, and ancient civilisations. Cruise through the Greek Islands, experience whitewashed villages, visit the sacred Temples of Olympia, and stroll through Istanbul’s treasure-filled bazaars. Serving up ruins, resorts, and rich history, from the world-famous Acropolis in Athens to the intriguing cultural relics in Ephesus, a Globus Mediterranean holiday through Greece and Turkey is sure to deliver.

Greece & Turkey Highlights

Perched atop soaring huge cliffs are the monasteries of Meteora, of which six are still active. Visit the beautiful monasteries of Varlaam and St. Stephen's to marvel at this serenely mystical landscape with breathtaking views from above.

Cross the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean to the iconic island of Santorini. Meander the charming streets or laze on one of the island’s idyllic beaches. After a dinner of traditional specialties head to one of the island’s viewpoints to catch the breathtaking beauty of an amber Santorini sunset.

Ephesus 

Turkey’s ancient Ephesus was once the second biggest city of the Roman Empire and is supposedly where the Virgin Mary spent the last years of her life. Today it is one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean, with its excavated remains reflecting centuries of history.

Popular Greece and Turkey Tours

Explore the best of greece and turkey.

Check out our current Globus deals for 2024!

Greece - Turkey Tour

Must book at least 90 days in advance

Quick Details

• User Ages: All Ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 17 Days
• Map Marker Tour Category: The Bible Lands

Explore two iconic Countries in a combination tour of Greece and Turkey!

Experience the best of Greece and Turkey on this 17-day tour! Visit iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon in Athens, explore the ancient city of Ephesus, and take the opportunity to visit Cappadocia. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see two of the most fascinating countries in the world.

More Information

• Chevron down Suggested Itinerary

DAY 1: Thessaloniki

Arrive in Thessaloniki, and transfer to the hotel. Dinner included. Get acquainted. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

DAY 2 Thessaloniki-Philippi-Kavala

Visit Thessaloniki and Philippi — After breakfast, pick up from the hotel to start the morning tour of Thessaloniki. Visit the Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Thessaloniki. Enjoy the sites and the beautiful coastline. Afterward, we will reach the town of Kavala (Ancient Neapolis) and then Philippi where Paul preached and baptized the first Christians in Europe! Visit the ‘’Baptismal’’ site, where Lydia was baptized and the place where tradition says Paul was imprisoned. Finally, we visit the Acropolis of Philippi, the Ancient Market, the Basilica, and the Theatre. Overnight in Kavala, (Ancient Neapolis) Group Dinner in Hotel included.

DAY 3 Kavala to Meteora

Kavala to Meteora – We leave Kavala. We arrive at the beautiful town of Veria (Ancient Beroea) at Northwestern Greece. Visit the Jewish synagogue in the area Paul originally preached. We continue to the Ancient town of Vergina. Go to the Royal tombs of Alexander the Great’s father, Phillip of Macedon. We finally arrive at the picturesque town of Kalambaka and go to Meteora to see the breathtaking rock tower monasteries of the 11th Century! Overnight in Kalambaka (Meteora). Group Dinner in Hotel included.

DAY 4 Kalambaka to Athens

Kalambaka to Athens — Early in the morning, we drive a few hours along the mountainous region to Athens. Make short stops at Thermopylae, the statue of Leonidas, and the wonderful Tempi valley. Follow the path of the Apostle to the nations by visiting the Areopagus or Mars Hill where he preached to the Athenians (Acts 17). Visit the Acropolis. Overnight in Athens. Group Dinner in Hotel included.

DAY 5 Corinth-Athens

Ancient Corinth to Athens – Visit the famous Canal of Corinth, the archaeological site and the museum at Acrocorinth. Visit the biblical site of Cenchreae. Stroll around the ancient citadel while your experienced tour guide relates to you the fascinating history of such monuments as the Temple of Athena Nike, the Theatre of Dionysus. Overnight in Athens. Group Dinner in Hotel included.

DAY 6 Athens

Visit the Greece Bethel Branch Office in Athens. Visit the Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Malakasa. Finally, enjoy the beautiful view from Lycabettus mountain and a final Group dinner overlooking Athens. Overnight in Athens.

DAY 7 Athens / Izmir Turkey

Breakfast at the Hotel. Depart Athens. The flight towards Izmir. Free time in Izmir. Group dinner included at hotel.

Day 8 Izmir Turkey

Breakfast at the hotel and continue to Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17) First visit Asclepion (medical center of the ancient world). Then visit the Acropolis, Temple of Athena, library, Royal Palace, Temple of Trajan, the steepest theater of the ancient world, Altar of Zeus. Continue to Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29) which was a commercial center, visit the remains of a church, and then return to Izmir. Group dinner is included at the hotel.

Day 9 Izmir Turkey

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit ancient Agora of Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11) Depart from Izmir to Ephesus, a cradle of early Christianity (Revelation 1:1; 2:1-7). Proceed to spectacular ruins from the period of Paul; see Odeon, Fountains, Temples; Library, Great theater, and stadium. Temple of Artemis (one of the seventh wonders of the ancient world.) Group dinner is included at the hotel.

Day 10 Izmir Turkey/Pamukkale

Breakfast and check out of Izmir hotel. Visit Aphrodisias en route to Pamukkale (which was ancient Hierapolis mentioned at Colossians 4:13.) Visit the wonderful formations of stalactites and watch the Cataracts falling into the Basin at the bottom of the Mountain. Continue the tour with the ancient city of Hierapolis. Group dinner included, overnight in Pamukkale Hotel.

Day 11 Pamukkale/Izmir Turkey

Breakfast and check out of Pamukkale Hotel. Early morning start with a visit to the ancient city of Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22). Continue to Philadelphia. (Revelation 3:7-13) Visit Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6) capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia. See the Temple of Diana, the Golden River (Pactalos), and the royal road. Then visit the reconstructed synagogue and continue to Izmir for a Group dinner included, overnight in the Izmir hotel.

Day 12: Izmir/Kayseri Turkey

Breakfast and check out of Izmir Hotel. Flight to Kayseri Airport (Cappadocia). Group dinner included, overnight in Cappadocia hotel.

Day 13: Cappadocia

Possibility to take a hot air balloon ride (not included) in the early morning (5 AM). Exploring the Monastic center of Goreme, dark churches, and Buckle church. Touring Pasabag Valley. Visit pottery town Avanos. Group dinner included.

Day 14: Cappadocia

Visit Kaymakli Underground City visit (cave dwellings), where the Christians lived protecting themselves from invaders. Visit to Sinassos. Group dinner included.

Day 15: Cappadocia/Istanbul

Breakfast and checkout from the hotel. Flight from Kayseri Airport to Istanbul. Visit Grand Bazaar & Egyptian Spice Market. Group dinner included, overnight in Istanbul Hotel.

Day 16: Istanbul

Breakfast in Istanbul hotel. Visit Hagia Sophia Museum. Enjoy Bosphorus Cruise. Group Dinner and overnight in Istanbul hotel.

Day 17: Istanbul

Breakfast in Istanbul Hotel. Flight home

All itineraries are subject to adjustment as required. Confirmed, final, and detailed itineraries (and additional important travel details) are posted on your Personal BCT Travel Desktop, approximately one month from departure.

Note: For reasons beyond our control, it may not be possible to visit everything listed above. However, every effort will be made to include as much as reasonably possible.

Listed below are most of the locations we will be visiting on our Bible Lands Tour. We have included references to our Christian publications so that you can look up this information in advance. This reference list does not include everything we have published on the locations we will be visiting, but will help get you started on preparing:

TÜRKIYE (TURKEY)

Ephesus: it-1 734 -735 Smyrna: it-1 982 Pergamum: it-2 607-608 Thyatira: it-2 p. 1099 Sardis: it-2 864 Philadelphia: it-2 626 Laodicea: it-2 204

Athens: it-1 pp. 209-211 Beroea (Veria): it-1 p. 291 Corinth: it-1 pp. 508-509 Cenchreae: it-1 pp. 424-425 Neapolis (Kavala): it-2 pp. 478-479 Philippi: it-2 pp. 629-630 Thessalonica: it-2 p. 1092

Proposed Hotels Türkiye (Turkey): 3 or 4-star Hotels in Izmir, Pamukkale, and Istanbul

Proposed Hotels Greece: 3 or 4-star Hotels in Thessaloniki, Kavala, Kalambaka, and Athens

• Chevron down What’s Included
• Transportation each day for touring and sightseeing.
• Entrance fees for scheduled touring sites.
• Airfare between countries for those traveling to multiple countries.
• Breakfast and Dinner as noted on the day-by-day itinerary.
• Rooming in a 3-star or higher hotel.
• Prices include two tour guides: one Local guide to conducting our tour (which is required by the local laws) and one Jehovah’s Witness guide. The Witness guides will be Appointed Brothers. Your tour will be biblically accurate and of the greatest encouragement to you.
• Airport / Hotel shuttle service for those with full packages.
• Representatives to meet & greet at both the airport & hotel.
• Tips for your local guides and bus drivers.
• Chevron down What’s Not Included
• Tips to the hotel staff
• Tips for your BCT guides.
• Lunch as noted on the day-by-day itinerary.
• Airline Tickets
• Chevron down Deposit and Cancellation Policy
• 25% deposit required to confirm any reservation
• 25% deposit (up to $400 maximum per person) non-refundable
• No insurance, no refunds. A claim, with the proper paperwork, for an insured reason, must be presented to the insurance company.
• Lack of Insurance results in no refunds of any type.
• The final balance is due 90 days prior to departure on all trips.
• Reservations made less than 90 days before departure require full payment.
• Chevron down Regarding Land Package Pricing

Land Package prices signify that… BCT will provide your transportation during the tour but you will be required to arrange your own transportation (be that airfare or train or car) at the beginning and after the tour.

Unless the arrival and departure hotels provide complimentary hotel/airport shuttle service Land Package travelers will need to arrange their own airport/hotel transportation.

BCT is not responsible for any cost associated with the cost of your transportation (be that airfare or train or car) at the beginning and after the tour. Including penalties, fees, and/or rebooking costs when a trip is canceled or moved. Click here to read about the advantages of booking a ‘full package’ trip versus a ‘land package’ trip.

• Chevron down Fees Information

A 6% convenience (secure processing) fee will be added for reservations made online and a $30/person discount will be added. Booking over the phone, no convenience fee will be added, nor will you receive a $30/person discount.

Related Activities

• Most Popular!
• Map Marker The Bible Lands
• Hour Glass 11 Days
• User All Ages

Türkiye - Cappadocia Tour

Cappadocia is a land of fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides. It’s a place where you can explore ancient ruins, hike through stunning scenery, and experience the local culture. This tour will take you to all the highlights of Cappadocia!

Open for Delegates and Non-Delegates. Delegates can add before or after 2024 Special Convention!

• Map Marker Europe
• Hour Glass 10 Days

Best of Central Europe

Marvel at the timeless beauty and majesty of the capitals of Central Europe: Prague, Vienna and Budapest and enjoy a colorful mixture of the Germanic, Slavic and Hungarian cultures, classical music, fine art and inspiring landscapes..

This lesser known European beach has the bluest water in the world

When picking the perfect locale for a beach vacation, travelers often seek out the bluest waters to frolic in and relax.

It’s no wonder why. Research shows that being near, in or under water offers a slew of benefits for our well-being . Blue spaces have a calming effect, helping to lower stress and anxiety and provide a respite to the over-stimulated states of mind we often find ourselves in. 

To help travelers pick their perfect beach with stunning blue water, London-based travel agency CV Villas conducted a study in March to find the beaches with the bluest waters, according to scientific color theory. To do this, the team analyzed the RGB color codes of unfiltered Google map images of 200 popular beaches worldwide to see how close they compare to the YInMn Blue, an intensely vibrant blue shade discovered in 2016. 

While most people imagine the most azure waters to be somewhere tropical like Maldives or Bora Bora, the research revealed that some of the bluest waters can be found in Europe, especially around Greece. (Nevertheless, travelers to the tropics will still find the water just as beautiful and relaxing.) 

“Not only does our research highlight the stunning coastal destinations that Europe has to offer, but it also reinforces the allure of lesser-known gems like Pasqyra Beach in Albania,” said Ben Briggs, CV Villas’ head of marketing, in a statement. “We hope that our study gives recognition to the natural beauty that lesser-known destinations can offer to travellers who are seeking an unforgettable seaside experience – and getting the chance to say they have officially swam in the world’s bluest water.”

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are the beaches with the bluest waters.

Itching for a beach vacation? Cheap airline tickets to nab this Spring and Summer

10. Los Lances Beach, Spain

With vast sandy areas and dunes, the sprawling Los Lances Beach is aptly located on the Costa de la Luz, meaning the Coast of Light, in southern Spain. Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, the beach’s waters are a clear, deep blue. On a clear day, beachgoers can spot the silhouette of Morocco in the distance. 

9. Ombros Gialos, Greece

On the Greek island of Sambros, Ombros Gialos Beach is ideal for adventurers as the hidden cove is only reachable by a winding road or boat. Although mostly rocky and sometimes with rough conditions, the small beach has a dock for swimmers or snorkelers to launch themselves into the bright turquoise sea. 

8. Praia do Carvalho, Portugal

Surrounded by dramatic golden cliffs and a rock formation out at sea, this quiet beach is beloved for its clear turquoise waters. To access the beach, visitors need to walk through a man-made tunnel and stairs, where a tranquil sandy beach awaits on the other side. 

7. Foki Beach, Greece

Situated on the Ionian island of Cephalonia, Foki Beach is named after the monk seals who used to frequent the beach. Flanked by olive and pine trees, the pebble beach features clear blue waters for swimmers and snorkelers. Visitors can meander around the beach via nearby trails. 

6. Voulisma Beach, Greece

Also known as Golden Beach, this crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular destinations in eastern Crete. With soft white sand and calm azure water, beachgoers enjoy spending the entire day there, stopping at nearby snack stands or renting umbrellas for respite from the sun. 

5. Kaputa Beach, Turkey

As one of the most popular beaches along the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, Kaputa Beach is known for its gold sand and crystal clear waters. Nestled between two cliffs, the beach is only accessible by descending a steep flight of stairs that have been carved into the cliffside. Visitors can rent sunbeds and umbrellas to enjoy the beach.

4. Plage de la Verne, France

In the South of France's Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, Plage de la Verne is a charming pebble cove on the Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer peninsula. Visitors can reach the beach via a coastal path. With just a little space for beachgoers to relax under the sun, the water is beautifully blue but not very swimmable. 

3. Kassiopi Beach, Greece

Corfu’s Kassiopi Beach is a stunning bay with a white pebble beach and water so clear that people can see the fish right below the surface. Guests can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding or jet skiing, or wandering along a charming waterfront promenade with cafes and tavernas. 

2. Paralia Mpouka, Greece

Located on the Ionian Sea, Paralia Mpouka is a spacious resort-laden beach with stunning water in various shades of bright blue. It’s also a popular beach destination, where guests frolic in the shallow water, kayak or paddleboard. Once the wind picks up in the afternoon, the favorite beach pastime activity is windsurfing. 

1. Pasqyra Beach, Albania

Landing the top spot for the bluest water is Pasqyra Beach, or Mirror Beach. The beach earned its name for its crystal clear water reflecting the sun like a mirror. The coastline is known to be breathtaking, surrounded by rock formations and mountains. Visitors to the beach take a dirt road and descend a rocky path. While the water is beautiful, it’s known to get pretty crowded as the day goes on.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .