Istanbul to Athens - 14 days
Istanbul to Athens - 14 days
Istanbul to Athens - 14 days
14 Days Starting in Istanbul and ending in Athens
Visiting: Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Marmaris, Stunning Santorini, Cosmopolitan Mykonos, Ancient Athens, The Acropolis, Athens
Tour operator:
Tour code:
1144/ISTA
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Group size:
2 - 28
Age range:
16 years with an accompanying adult
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
From Istanbul to Athens. The great capital of the Ottoman Empire to the ancient capital of Greece in 14 magical days. Discover archaeological treasures, natural wonders, and the jewels of the Greek Islands; Rhodes, Santorini and Mykonos
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Saturday. Welcome to Turkey, after arriving into Istanbul a transfer will be provided to our hotel. Istanbul is easy to get around on foot and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes dotted about the city. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 2: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
We explore the incredible old city of Istanbul today, steeped in fascinating history and from where the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires were ruled from. We’ll visit the stunning Blue Mosque, famed for its blue Iznik tiles. Continue to the Hippodrome, view the exterior of the Hagia Sophia (constructed as a Basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian), and Topkapi Palace.
Day 3: Canakkale
Location: Canakkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Istanbul – Gallipoli. Departing Istanbul today we make our way to ANZAC Cove and the many memorials dotted across the WW1 battlefields. Our guided tour takes in sights including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial and cemetery, Chunuk Bair Memorial and cemetery, the Nek, Johnston’s Jolly and the many fortified trenches still clearly visible amongst the scrub after all these years. These trenches were only around 3 feet deep and provided vital cover for the Australian and New Zealand troops fighting the enemy.
We continue across the Dardenelles by ferry this afternoon before we reach our hotel.
Day 4: Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Gallipoli - Kusadasi/Izmir. Step back in time as we visit the legendary Roman ruins of Troy and Pergamum. We enjoy a guided tour of the ancient city of Troy, which dates back to 3000BC. We see the replica Trojan horse before we explore the ruins of Pergamum with it’s impressive temples, library and medical facilities. Visit a local carpet emporium en route to either Kusadasi or Izmir and understand how Turkey produces some of the finest carpets in the world.
Day 5: Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we explore ancient Ephesus, considered to be the best preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean. Highlighting the sophistication of Roman urban life, Ephesus boasts incredible excavated ruins including a Great Theatre, Curetes Way, the Temple of Serapis and the Library of Celsus. With a population numbering nearly 250,000 people it became the capital of Asia Minor and gained much of it's prosperity from commerce and pilgrims visiting the Temple of Artemis. We have time to explore the marble ruins and you may wish to stop by the ancient public toilets and public brothel amongst other points of interest.
Day 6: Pamukkale
Location: Pamukkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kusadasi/Izmir - Pammukale - Marmaris. Our drive today sees us meander through sweeping plains and cotton farms until we arrive at the ruins of Roman Hieropolis and the hot springs of Pamukkale. Pamukkale was formed when warm, calcium rich mineral water cascaded over the cliff edge, cooling and depositing in the process. Admire this surreal landscape created by frequent earthquakes. Marvel at the crystalline marble, quartzites and stalagtites, which shimmer in the sunlight. There will be time to paddle our feet as we walk the terraces or opt for a dip in the thermal baths before visiting a leather fashion house.
We continue to the ruined spa town of Hierapolis before we continue to Marmaris for our overnight spot.
Day 7: Marmaris
Location: Marmaris
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we transfer to Marmaris Port for a ferry to the Greek island of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese group. Spend the rest of the day at leisure - perhaps visit Rhodes City and see the walls of a very well preserved Venetian castle. Built by the Knights of Saint John, it is one of the finest examples of medieval architecture.
This tour is semi independent in style from days 7 - 14, so from once you arrive in Rhodes until you depart from Athens you will not be escorted by a tour guide.
Day 8-9: Stunning Santorini
Location: Stunning Santorini
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Santorini (2)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rhodes - Santorini. This morning you'll transfer to the airport for a flight (via Athens) to Santorini. Spend the next two days at leisure on this beautiful island. Santorini, located in the Cyclades island group, is a dramatically striking volcanic island and is the only inhabited Caldera (volcano cauldron) in the world, with towns and villages perched on top of the massive cliffs of the caldera and beautiful black and red beaches. Renowned for it's beautiful sunsets and stunning blue and white villages, Santorini is a feast for the eyes. Santorinis infamous villages of Fira and Oia are a must visit, perched on the edge of the caldera and offering amazing views over the Aegean and the volcano.
Day 10-11: Cosmopolitan Mykonos
Location: Cosmopolitan Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Mykonos (2)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Santorini - Mykonos. On day 10 you'll be transferred to the pier to catch the ferry to Mykonos. Enjoy the beautiful views from your ferry as you make your way through the turqoise waters of the Aegean sea. Upon arrival you'll have a transfer to take you to your hotel where you'll spend the next two days at leisure. Mykonos island is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and exciting nightlife. The picturesque Cycladic capital is full of whitewashed houses and blue domed churches and the island boasts magnificent sandy beaches.
Day 12: Ancient Athens
Location: Ancient Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
Mykonos - Athens. Today you take the ferry to Athens, upon arrival we transfer to the hotel. Athens is the capital of Greece and took its name from the ancient goddess Athena. It is thought to have at least a 3000 year old recorded history which makes it one of the oldest cities in Europe.
Day 13: The Acropolis
Location: The Acropolis
Meals Included: Breakfast
Athens. We are free to independently explore the ancient capital today. Visit the legendary Acropolis and discover the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erectheion and of course the spectacular and iconic Parthenon. Other sights of interest include Constitution Square, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of the modern era were held in 1896. You can also see Evzones (ceremonial guards) in their distinctive uniforms at the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Palace.
Day 14: Athens
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
Friday - Athens. After breakfast, included transfer to Athens Airport for your onward journey.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 star -
Breakfast daily and 4 hotel dinners
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13 nights 4 star and special class hotels
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Guided sightseeing - Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ruins of Ephesus, Pergamum, Pamukkale and Roman Hierapolis
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Escorted by an English speaking, degree qualified Turkish tour guide (days 1-6)
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Rhodes to Santorini - One way economy flight
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Marmaris to Rhodes and Santorini - Athens ferry tickets.
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One arrival transfer on day 1 and one departure transfer on day 14 included per booking
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All relevant transfers and transportation in private modern air-conditioned vehicles (days 1-6)
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Please Note: This tour is semi independent days 7 - 14 (you will not be escorted by a tour guide)
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
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A hotel tax of €3.00 per room per night to be paid directly to the hotel at time of check in
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
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Entrance Fees: EUR€120-130pp in 2024, EUR€175-185pp in 2025 paid EUR
Age Policy
16 years with an accompanying adult
Accommodation
Point Hotel Taksim
Well-located just a short walk from the nearest Metro station, this modern hotel is a great base for exploring the sights of Istanbul. Light and spacious guestrooms offer air conditioning and free high speed WiFi. There’s also a indoor pool, spa facilities and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy a choice of eateries, including an authentic Japanese Restaurant and two café bars. However, this hotel’s highlight is the top-floor View Point Restaurant, which boasts delicious Turkish and world cuisine alongside sweeping views of the Bosporus Strait.
DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Piyalepasa
This impressive 5-star hotel is located in the upmarket Beyoglu district of Istanbul and a free shuttle is provided to the city centre, home to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sofia, amongst other attractions. Rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton are elegant and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and a flatscreen TV. Some rooms feature a balcony. There is free Wi-Fi at the property and amenities include an indoor pool with whirlpool, fitness centre and sun terrace. There are two onsite restaurants and a daily breakfast buffet.
Kolin Hotel
Looking out across the Dardanelles, the modern and bright Kolin Hotel offers well appointed rooms with hard wood flooring and tasteful decor. The hotel also boasts a luxury spa, wellness centre and a number of mouth watering restaurants all set within perfectly manicured lawns. Sipping a sundowner on the roof bar, overlooking the beautiful strait, is the perfect way to end the day.
The hotel is located on the water’s edge a short drive from the town centre with beautiful views out to sea.
Charisma Hotel
The Charisma is a modern and elegant hotel with spacious rooms. The rooms are equipped with jacuzzi, LCD screen television, split air conditioning, mini-bar, electronic safe box, hairdryer and free internet connection. Towering over the Aegean Sea's outstanding view, the Hotel is just 15 minutes by walk from Kusadasi's shopping and entertainment area.
Kaya Izmir Thermal & Convention
Kaya Hotel in Izmir's Balcova District boasts the region's largest thermal and spa facilities, both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a well-equipped gym. Air-conditioned guest rooms at Kaya Izmir Thermal & Spa feature contemporary furnishings, flat-screen satellite TV, a seating area, and a work desk. The hotel's restaurant offers a variety of Turkish and international dishes, and guests can also enjoy attentive room service. The extensive spa facilities include a hot tub, traditional Turkish bath, sauna, and massage services, providing a range of facial and body treatments, with free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel.
Orsmaris Boutique Hotel
Orsmaris Boutique hotel was completely renovated in 2006. The hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a professional approach and excellent service. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated and command spectacular views out over the sea. Diner have the option of sitting indoors or al fresco as they feast on sumptuous Turkish and international cuisine. Guests can also enjoy the two outdoor pools and surrounding flower garden. The Hotel is situated by the sea and 5 km away from Marmaris city center.
Semiramis City Hotel
Located in the heart of Rhodes town and just a 3-minute walk from the beach, the Semiramis City Hotel is the perfect place to soak up the charm of Rhodes. Many of the rooms boast sea views and are elegantly decorated to a modern standard with smart wooden flooring. Rooms are ensuite and equipped with satellite TV and minibar, and the majority of rooms offer balconies. There is an outdoor pool and sun terrace. Wi-Fi is available for free in the lobby and the onsite buffet restaurant serves a great mix of local and international cuisine. There's also an onsite cocktail bar and an outdoor pool bar for guests to enjoy at their convenience.
Daedalus Hotel
Tucked away in the centre of Fira town with sweeping coastal views of the volcanic caldera and decorated in the typical whitewashed Santorini style, the Daedalus Hotel is a delight for travellers to the Greek island. Each room comes with a balcony and other amenities including a TV, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi and security safe. Ensuite bathrooms have been decorated in typical Santorini style on the inside, a pleasant and unexpected feature. There's an outdoor pool and snack bar, with a buffet breakfast offered from the onsite restaurant.
Giannoulaki Hotel
Located within walking distance of the beach and boasting an outdoor pool, gym, and poolside bar, the Giannoulaki Hotel is a great option for travellers to Mykonos. Air-conditioned rooms all feature either a balcony or veranda, as well as TV, fridge, safe and private bathrooms with marble bath. The onsite restaurant Noo Noo serves up traditional Mediterranean cuisine and the pool-side bar serves cocktails until late.
Airotel Parthenon
The best thing about the Airotel Parthenon Hotel is its location. Steps away from the Acropolis Museum and the pretty Plaka district, it's as good as it gets as a base for exploring the Greek capital. Rooms are air-conditioned with ensuite bathrooms and are equipped with free Wi-Fi, fridges, TV, and tea and coffee making facilities. There are balconies in many of the rooms. The sunny Acropolis restaurant serves up great Greek food, and there's a daily buffet breakfast.
Check out our Q&As
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD 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 on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.