Istanbul to Athens Explorer

Istanbul to Athens Explorer

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15 Days From

$3450

Istanbul to Athens Explorer

15 Days Starting in 41.008240,28.978359 and ending in 37.983810,23.727539

Visiting: Greece, Turkey

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

297

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 20

Physical rating:

All Ages / Not applicable

Age range:

8-95

Special diets catered:

Request dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $3450

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

This 15-day tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through the historic lands of Turkey and Greece. Culture, history, philosophy, mythology, religion, politics, architecture - these two countries were, and still are, both incredibly important and influential in these fields.

You will visit many famous landmarks and sites on your tour, seeing ancient ruins and half-buried civilisations, temples of Greek gods and statues of legendary warriors, iconic buildings and fascinating natural spectacles. Highlights include Istanbul’s Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, the mythical landscape of Cappadocia, the travertines of Pamukkale, Athens with its many attractions, and numerous ancient temples of the Greek gods.

History and legend will become your reality as you traverse these famed lands over two amazing weeks.

Highlights

  • Istanbul Old City, Cappadocia scenery, Underground city, Pamukkale, Ephesus ruins, Acropolis & Parthenon in Athens, Epidaurus, birth place of the Olympics at Olympia, Temple of Apollo at Delphi, clifftop monasteries at Meteora

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Extras:

Accommodation Name: <STRONG>Day 1: Tour starts in Istanbul </STRONG>Your 15-day adventure starts off with your arrival in Istanbul. One of the most fascinating and grand cities in the world, Istanbul is rich with culture and history.Uniquely located at the junction of Europe

Single room supplement (TUSGTG), Extra day in Istanbul - pre-tour

Day 2 : Day 2: Tour Of Istanbul Old City

Accommodation Name: We start the day exploring the historical part of Istanbul known as the Old City. You visit some of the most iconic landmarks, including the world-famous Blue Mosque, the beautiful Hagia Sophia, the intriguing Topkapi Palace and the historic Hippodrome.Yo

Day 3 : Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise. Fly To Cappadocia

This morning we'll take a 1 hour cruise along the Bosphorous River to take a view of the city from this narrow straight of water which separates Europe from Asia, along the way your guide will give you an overview of the historical sights as you pass by.

Day 4 : Day 4: Carpet Weaving Village Visit

Accommodation Name: A day filled with fascinating cultural experiences awaits us. We visit the Goreme Open Air Musuem, one of the most unique places to visit in Turkey. It is comprised of a series of monasteries and churches hewn into the rock formations, many still retainin

Day 5 : Day 5: Kaymakli Underground City: Silk Road: Stop At Sultan Hani Caravansary: Mevlana Museum In Konya

Accommodation Name: Today we visit the mazes and tunnels of Kaymakli Underground City. We then travel along the famous ancient Silk Road towards Konya. We stop at the Sultan Hani Caravansary.In ancient times, a caravansary was a roadside inn where travellers were able to sto

Day 6 : Day 6: Pamukkale: Hierapolis

Accommodation Name: </STRONG>Today we head towards the famous travertines and hot springs of Pamukkale. This magical natural site is a bucket-list destination and is visited by around 2 million people each year. The white limestone cascades and bright blue pools contrast be

Day 7 : Day 7: Laodicea: Kusadasi

Accommodation Name: Today, we will explore Laodicea ancient city which was the chief city of the Lycus River Valley region. The full name of the city was Laodicea ad Lyceum (Laodicea on the Lycus). The city was originally known as Diospolis ("the City of Zeus"). The Greek de

Day 8 : Day 8: City Of Ephesus

Accommodation Name: Today we visit another ancient city. Ephesus is extremely well-preserved, and much of the ruins have been excavated and restored. You are therefore able to walk and stroll through the city much as the original inhabitants would have done, giving you a won

Day 9 : Day 9: Athens (Free Day)

Accommodation Name: Today you have a free day to explore Athens at your leisure. This legendary city is the capital of modern Greece, and was the historical capital of Europe. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, overflowing with landmarks dedicated to mythology and

Day 10 : Day 10: Guided Athens Tour

Accommodation Name: Today we go on a city tour of Athens. We visit the essential sites of this extraordinary city: from the Panathenaic Stadium to the iconic Acropolis, from the Temple of Zeus to Hadrian’s Arch to the Parnethon. The temples and ruins will transport you back

Day 11 : Day 11: Corinth Canal Crossing: City Of Mycenae

Accommodation Name: We start off the day by crossing the Corinth Canal, one of the smallest canals in the world. It separates the Greek mainland from the Pelopponese Peninsula.We also visit Mycenae, one of the most important archaeological sites of ancient Greece. This enorm

Day 12 : Day 12: City Of Olympia: Rio-Antirio Bridge Crossing

Accommodation Name: Today we head to Olympia, which is the place where the Olympic Games were founded. We visit the Ancient Stadium, where the ancient games were once held.We stop at the Archaeological Museum, where we can see one of the most famous statutes in the world, He

Day 13 : Day 13: Delphi

Accommodation Name: Today we explore Delphi, another important site of ancient Greece. This was once known as the centre of the ancient world, and the shrine of the god Apollo. Here we see the remains of Apollo’s Temple, as well as the Sanctuary of Athena, who was the oracle

Day 14 : Day 14: Meteora Tour: Journey Back To Athens

Accommodation Name: Today we visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora. This unique and awe-inspiring place is made up of striking rock formations that stand out dramatically against the landscape.Ancient Christian monasteries are found perched atop and among the forma

Day 15 : Day 15: Tour Ends

Accommodation Name: Unfortunately, all good things come to an end. We enjoy breakfast in Athens before you are transferred to the airport to board your flight home.<STRONG> OVERNIGHT: </STRONG> <STRONG> MEALS: </STRONG> Breakfast<STRONG> EXTRAS: </STRONG> Extra day in Ath

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    6*

  • - All accommodation as stated in the itinerary in 4-star & boutique hotels

  • - All transport and transfers in AC vehicles

  • - 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service

  • - Domestic flight from Istanbul to Kayseri

  • - Services of local tour guide in Turkey and Greece

  • - Entrance fees to sites visited in Turkey

  • - Max group size in Turkey - 20; Max group size in Greece - 50

  • - Meals as indicated in the itinerary (14 breakfasts, 7 dinners)

  • - Tipping kitty

What's Not Included

  • - International flights

  • - Visa fees (if required)

  • - International flight between Izmir (ADB) and Athens (ATH)

  • - Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)

  • - Meals not indicated in the itinerary

  • - Entrance fees to sites visited in Greece (allow approx. EUR 79 (Apr-Oct) or EUR 45 (Nov-Mar)

  • - Greek hotel residence tax (allow EUR 10.50p/p for shared rooms, EUR 21 for single rooms, see Tour Notes)

  • - Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)

  • - Tips for guide & driver

  • - Optional tours

  • - Any other items not mentioned above

More Info

This 15-day tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through the historic lands of Turkey and Greece. Culture, history, philosophy, mythology, religion, politics, architecture - these two countries were, and still are, both incredibly important and influential in these fields. You will visit many famous landmarks and sites on your tour, seeing ancient ruins and half-buried civilisations, temples of Greek gods and statues of legendary warriors, iconic buildings and fascinating natural spectacles. Highlights include Istanbul’s Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, the mythical landscape of Cappadocia, the travertines of Pamukkale, Athens with its many attractions, and numerous ancient temples of the Greek gods. History and legend will become your reality as you traverse these famed lands over two amazing weeks.

Mode of Transport

AC minibus/coach

Accommodation

4-star and boutique hotels

Check out our Q&As

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation. UK travellers visiting European Union countries including Greece should also carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as it entitles travellers to reduced cost, sometimes free, medical treatment in most European countries.



    Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination.

    You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for Turkey are Hepatitis A and Tetanus. No additional courses or boosters are generally recommended for Greece.



    More information is available here: Turkey, Greece

    Malaria map - there is low risk malaria in some south eastern regions of Turkey, not visited on our tours.

    Malaria map - there is low to no risk of malaria in Greece, none in tourist areas.

    Yellow fever certificates are not required for either country.

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Tipping is common practice in Greece, though not as extensive as in Turkey. In both countries, for basic restaurants, taxis and local markets, leave the loose change. For more up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.



    We include a 'tipping kitty' in your tour price which your tour guide will use to tip a wide range of people along the way to help ensure the smooth running of the tour. This does not include your tour guide(s) or driver(s) though.



    Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. For those you see for at least several days and who are more involved with the group, a tip of around EUR 1-2 per person per day is generally appropriate.

    Tour guides: If you think you tour guide and/or tour leader has worked hard and provided a good service then s/he will appreciate a tip of a few Euros. How much you tip is subject to your satisfaction with their service and your personal budget. You should not feel pressured to tip any particular amount. As a guideline, we can suggest that for good service, a tip of EUR 3-5 per person per day for local tour guides or local tour leaders would be fine.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    In Turkey we provide a fully trained, local English-speaking guide to accompany you all the way from Istanbul to the end of the tour in Kusadasi. You are also transferred by the guide or one of our other representatives to the airport in Izmir for your departure to Greece.



    In Greece a fully trained, local English-speaking guide accompanies you for all the sightseeing tours through Nafplion, Olympia, Delphi, Meteora and back to Athens.



    At Encounters Travel we try to use local guides and reps as much as possible. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing.

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.



    Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Turkey, and need to obtain it in advance online through http://www.evisa.gov.tr. Applicants just need to log on to the following link, provide the requested information, (after the application is approved) make online payment and download their e-Visa. More information is available here http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa



    From the 2nd March 2020 all UK nationals will not need to obtain a visa for Turkey (for visits of up to 90 days in each 180 day period). This will also apply to citizens of the Schengen area countries Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Poland.



    Some foreign nationals require a visa to enter Greece, though many do not (including UK, EUR, US, CA, AU, NZ, SA). More information is available at visas for foreigners.

  • What currencies are required for this tour?

    The Turkish lira was re-valued at the end of 2004 to become the ‘New Turkish Lira’. The word ‘New’ has now been dropped, and we are back to ‘Turkish Lira’ again (TRY).



    It is normally cheaper to convert money to Turkish Lira in Turkey than at home. Using an ATM or a credit card will often get you the best possible exchange rates; the post and telephone office (PTT) and banks offer very reasonable rates, too. Try to use ATM machines that are attached to banks while they are open, so that if your card is swallowed you can go into the bank and get it released back to you.



    It is difficult for us to specify the money that you will spend per day, however, as a general rule USD 20-50 per day can provide you with additional meals, tipping, snacks & drinks. Should you wish to purchase many souvenirs or other luxuries, of which there is a diverse range, you will have to budget for these.



    A mixture of cash and credit cards are the best forms of currency. Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants, bars and pubs. MasterCard and Visa are most welcomed; American Express cards work at some ATMs and AmEx offices. Credit cards are also useful for cash advances, which allow you to withdraw Lira instantly from associated banks and ATMs throughout Turkey. Cash cards and ATM’s are widespread in most of Turkey including in Istanbul, Canakkale, Selcuk, Marmaris, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Kas, Cappadocia, and Ankara.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Marijo Wilson  

recommended trip

February 2018

Best trip I have ever been on. I have traveled with many tour companies but none compare to the itinerary, information, and professionalism of this company.

trico Plumb  

google Review

January 2021

Awesome trip. Our guide was amazing and the trip exceeded our expectations.

captain_Philly  

8 day/7 night Taste of the Balkans Tour

May 2018

and liked the variety of tours they offered as well as their reasonable prices. The idea of hitting 4 Balkan countries in one trip was appealing (along with the very reasonable price), so I booked it. The pros: I got to see A LOT... starting from Athens and moving up through Meteora, Tirana, Kotor, Budva, Dubrovnik, and finally Split. We did city tours, ancient ruins, the Parthenon, monasteries, forts, museums, excellent food and wine all along the way! The price was very good. Some hotels were better than others (Splendido in Kotor was awesome), but overall for the price I paid, it was more than worth it just for the hotels and transport for 7 days, let alone the guides. Speaking of the guides, Gorgi and Besmir were fantastic!! They were such great company, kept things running, offered great advice, and became my friends. Once the other 8 people or so went home, I enjoyed hanging out with them on the beach in Split on my last day just like old friends. The cons: Encounters is a large agency and subcontracts the guides/drivers in different countries, so you never know what you're gonna get - at least I can say that Gorgi and Besmir were awesome! Also, the group format can be rough because it's hard to get 10-15 people to agree on anything. Some folks in our group were definitely disappointed that due to a bad route plan we had to skip a fishing village or something. Also, some miscommunication on departure times caused some stress. The border crossings can be tricky because some Balkan cultures do not like or recognize others...so if that's the case you may have to wait and hour or two and be hassled (apparently Greece and Albania do not particular recognize Macedonian passports because they think it's not a real country). Lastly, while it was great seeing so much, it was very rushed... early departures in the morning followed by hours and hours in the van, border crossings, quick tours, hotel checkins, and a little free time each night. The title "Taste of the Balkans" is exactly that, a taste. Now that I know that I absolutely LOVE Montenegro and Croatia, I will return to those two places for a week each instead of spending one day here one day there.

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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