Classic Turkey & Greek Islands tour
Classic Turkey & Greek Islands tour
$3385
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and rich histories of Greece and Turkey with the Classic Turkey & Greek Islands tour. Begin your adventure in Athens, exploring iconic sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon, before setting sail to the stunning Greek islands of Santorini, Mykonos, and Samos. Discover the ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus and the breathtaking Pamukkale travertines in Turkey. Experience the unique rock formations and underground cities of Cappadocia, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Istanbul, visiting landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Travel in comfort with air-conditioned transport and stay in luxurious 4 to 5-star accommodations, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for singles seeking an extraordinary adventure. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Athens, Transfer To Hotel
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Athens - 4-star hotel
This tour starts in the ancient city of Athens. On your arrival in Athens airport (ATH) our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the centre of the city. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and have a first look around. Extra nights in the Athens hotel are available on request.
Day 2 : Athens, Half Day Acropolis Tour
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Athens - 4-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
We include a half day tour this morning to visit the ancient Acropolis which sits on top of a rocky hill overlooking the city, providing great views. You'll see the temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, which formed a symbolic entrance to the city. You'll also tour the Temple of Nike, the most famous of Greek relics, the Parthenon, and see the original home of the marble sculptures removed by Lord Elgin that are now held in the British Museum in London.. At the Acropolis you'll also visit the impressive museum, the towering entrance of Propylaea and the Temple of the Athene Nike. You'll also stop at the Panathenaikon (Kallimarmaro) Stadium and learn about the first Olympic Games of the modern era which were held here in 1896. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Athens yourselves; whether you'd like to concentrate on more history, see the modern centre or find a cafe in a square to relax is up to you.
Day 3 : Ferry From Athens To Santorini, Free Time
Location: Santorini
Accommodation Name: Santorini – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
We'll leave Athens this morning and take to the sea for the fast ferry crossing to the volcanic island of Santorini (approx. 5 hours). The present shape of the island was formed after a huge volcanic eruption around 3600 years ago at the time of the height of the Minoan civilisation. Subsequent caldera collapses have left a large central lagoon with high cliffs surrounding it on three sides. The land then slopes down to some lovely beaches, formed of different coloured sand and pebbles, including the Black Beach White Beach and Red Beach. The weather here is consistently good through the summer months and you can spend your free time here relaxing on the beaches or perhaps exploring the picturesque capital, Fira.
Day 4 : Santorini, Free Time & Optional Tours
Location: Santorini
Accommodation Name: Santorini – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day is free to spend on Santorini today. You could relax on the beach, or take an optional boat trip into the volcanic lagoon to see the surrounding crater walls. You can also visit the active volcano, take a relaxing and therapeutic mud bath, and swim in the warm waters.
Day 5 : Ferry From Santorini To Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Mykonos – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
You head to sea again today and take the ferry from Santorini to Mykonos (approx. 3 hours), another of the Cyclades group of Greek islands. Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek islands, and for good reason. Mythology suggests that the island was formed by the bodies of petrified giants, killed by Hercules. Today it is a cosmopolitan island that attracts tourists from Greece and around Europe who come to enjoy the great weather, historic towns and whitewashed and colourful buildings, busy shopping streets, great cafes and restaurants, and a thriving night-time clubbing scene. Known as the 'Island of the Winds', Mykonos also is a great place for watersports with some excellent windsurfing and surfing beaches. Also popular are sailing trips and diving or snorkelling. Your time is free here to take advantage of whatever aspects of the islands attractions most suit you. Your tour leader will assist with any arrangements you may like to make.
Day 6 : Mykonos, Free Day & Local Options
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Ferry - reclining seats
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day is free to relax or explore Mykonos today, again with the assistance of your tour leader. You could chill on the beach or visit some of the small villages on the island which can feel like a large open-air museum. Worth seeing are the rows of windmills built above Chora by the Venetians in the 16th century; 'Little Venice' - the most picturesque and colourful quarter of the capital Chora; the Neolithic site at Ftelia in the north of the island; several interesting museums and churches, and of course the famous beaches. Late this evening we transfer to the ferry port to catch the overnight ferry to Samos (approx. 5-7 hours).
Day 7 : Samos To Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Kusadasi – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
You arrive in the Greek island of Samos early this morning. Samos is the southernmost island of the Aegean and sits just off the Turkish coast. Later in the day we will transfer you via ferry to Kusadasi on the Turkish coast. Depending on the ferry schedules, you'll have time to explore the towns of Samos or Kusadasi during the day. You'll be welcomed in Turkey by our team there and meet your professional Turkish tour guide who will accompany you for the rest of the trip.
Day 8 : Kusadasi, Ephesus Roman Ruins Tour
Location: Ephesus
Accommodation Name: Kusadasi – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast we drive to the Roman site of Ephesus. The city at one time housed 250,000 people and is regarded as one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. We visit the Temple of Artemis, and explore the ancient marble streets of this ruined Roman city. This afternoon we visit the fruit wine growing village of Sirince and learn about the history of carpet weaving in Turkey.
Day 9 : Drive To Pamukkale And Hierapolis
Location: Pamukkale
Accommodation Name: Pamukkale - 5 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
You can see a display of locally handcrafted leather goods this morning before we travel east to Pamukkale, site of the famous white calcium terraces known as Travertines. Pamukkale translates as ‘cotton castles’ and the naturally occurring geology here has created cloud like formations unlike anywhere else. We then head to the adjacent ancient city of Hierapolis where you can enjoy a dip in the hot thermal pools lodged amongst ancient columns left by the Romans who used the pools for their therapeutic powers.
Day 10 : Drive The Silk Road To Konya
Location: Konya
Accommodation Name: Cappadocia - 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel back in time today as we follow the ancient Silk Road towards Konya. We learn more about the history of this important trade route with a stop at the Sultanhani Caravanserai before arriving in Konya where we include a visit to the Mevlana museum – the former home of the original Mevlevi Whirling Dervishes.
Day 11 : Cappadocia, Full Day Tour
Location: Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: Cappadocia - 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we set out to explore the beautiful and surreal landscape of Cappadocia. Unlike anywhere else on earth, this bizarre setting creates a fairytale view full of improbable rock formations and underground villages. Often described as the jewel of Turkey we have a full tour here to explore the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum, the fairy chimneys, and we'll also explore an underground city full of subterranean churches, living areas, schools and shops used by Christians to avoid persecution over a thousand years ago.
Day 12 : Cappadocia, Drive To Ankara Before Returning To Istanbul
Location: Ankara
Accommodation Name: Istanbul – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave early this morning for the drive to Ankara, Turkey’s modern day capital city. We visit Anitkabir – mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk before returning to Istanbul by road. This is a long day's drive, and we can arrange an upgrade to an internal flight from Kayseri in Cappadocia if you prefer (please ask for current times & prices).
Day 13 : Istanbul, Old City Tour
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: Istanbul – 4 star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's tour of the old city of Istanbul provides an introduction to the history and some of the most important sites in this fascinating city. Straddling two continents Istanbul (or Constantinople as it was previously known) played an integral role in the development of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. We'll visit the 17th century Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya museum and explore the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans at Topkapi Palace before ending at the famous Hippodrome.
Day 14 : Istanbul, Departure Transfer To The Airport
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your time is free today for some last minute sightseeing and shopping in Istanbul before we transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Optional tours are available locally to see more of Istanbul, and we can also add extra nights in the Istanbul hotel if you'd like to spend more time exploring the city.
What's Included
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Accommodation
All accommodation as stated in the itinerary is included.
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Transport
All transport in AC minibus/coach in Turkey and Athens is included.
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Ferry Crossings
Greek island ferry crossings as per itinerary are included.
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Transfers
Port-hotel transfers on Greek islands are included.
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Airport Transfers
24-hour airport arrival transfer service from Eleftherios Venizelos Airport in Athens (ATH) and 24-hour airport departure transfer service in Istanbul (to either Istanbul - Attaturk (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) airports) are included.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to sites visited in Turkey are included.
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Tour Guides
Services of a Greek tour leader from Athens to Samos and services of a professional Turkish tour guide from Kusadasi to Istanbul are included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights are not included but are available on request.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory and not included, but available on request.
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Single Room Supplements
Single room supplements are chargeable if a same-sex room share is not available.
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Meals Not Indicated
Meals not indicated in the itinerary are not included.
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Entrance Fees in Athens
Entrance fees in Athens, such as the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum, are not included (allow approx. EUR 17).
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Greece Hotel Residence Tax
Greece hotel residence tax is not included.
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Personal Expenses
Drinks, snacks, and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry) are not included.
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Guide & Driver Tips
Guide and driver tips are not included.
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Port or Border Fees
Port or border fees are not included.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours are not included.
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Other Items
Any other items not mentioned above are not included.
More Info
This tour combines ancient Athens and visits to Greece's beautiful Aegean islands with some of Turkey's most impressive and important highlights. Among others, you'll see the extensive Roman ruins at Ephesus, Pamukkale's calcium travertines, underground cities and surreal landscapes in Cappadocia and the bustling city of Istanbul. We start in Athens with plenty of time to visit the famous ancient sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon, before heading out to the picturesque island of Santorini for plenty of sun, sea and sand. We island hop to Mykonos and Samos for more beach time before arriving at Kusadasi in Turkey. We'll visit the nearby roman ruins at Ephesus before heading inland to enjoy the rejuvenating thermal waters and limestone Travertines at Pamukkale and Heirapolis. We continue east to spend time in the fairytale landscape that is Cappadocia and venture underground to explore the fascinating underground cities. From here we head back to Istanbul, via the capital Ankara, and spent our final days visiting the famous sites like Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Aya Sofya. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort with air-conditioned minibuses and local ferries, providing seamless connections between destinations. Enjoy the scenic ferry rides across the Greek islands and efficient road transport in Turkey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury with stays in 4 to 5-star hotels throughout the tour, complemented by an overnight ferry journey. Enjoy the blend of modern amenities and traditional charm in each location, ensuring a restful retreat after your daily adventures.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses air-conditioned minibuses or coaches in Turkey and Athens, as well as local ferries for Greek island crossings.
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What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?
Accommodation is provided in 4 to 5-star hotels, with an overnight ferry journey included as well.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes a 24-hour airport arrival transfer service from Eleftherios Venizelos Airport in Athens and a 24-hour airport departure transfer service in Istanbul to either Istanbul - Ataturk or Sabiha Gokcen airports.
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Will there be a tour guide during the trip?
Yes, the services of a Greek tour leader are provided from Athens to Samos, and a professional Turkish tour guide accompanies the group from Kusadasi to Istanbul.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes meals as indicated in the itinerary, specifically 12 breakfasts and 5 dinners.
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What are some of the key historical sites visited on this tour?
The tour visits several key historical sites including the Acropolis in Athens, the Roman ruins at Ephesus, the ancient city of Hierapolis, and the old city of Istanbul with sites like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
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Is there an option to extend the stay in Athens or Istanbul?
Yes, extra nights in the Athens hotel are available on request before the tour, and additional nights in the Istanbul hotel can be arranged if you wish to spend more time exploring the city after the tour.
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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).
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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.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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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
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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
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Book with Confidence
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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.
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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.
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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.
Classic Turkey & Greek Islands tour
14 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Istanbul, Türkiye
Visiting: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, Ankara, Istanbul ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
175
Specialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
8-95
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests