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Istanbul and Greek Islands

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$3530

Explore the best that Turkey and the Greek islands have to offer in two weeks. Tour Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and many other amazing historical attractions in exquisite Istanbul. Spend glorious days getting lost in the labyrinthine lanes of Santorini and Crete. You’ll combine your love of history with laid-back island life, visiting volcano craters, idyllic coves, seaside cafés and ancient forts. You’ll enjoy the local cuisine and wines of both countries throughout your journey.

🚩  Private Guided Tour with Delux Hotel & All Transfers
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13 Days, 11 Nights: Istanbul, Athens, Santorini, Heraklion

INCLUSIONS


TRIP OVERVIEW (*UNESCO World Heritage Sites)

  • Istanbul City Tour
  • Historic Areas of Istanbul*
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
  • Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
  • Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square)
  • Grand Bazaar
  • Süleymaniye Mosque
  • Spice Bazaar
  • Dolmabahce Palace (Add-on)
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
  • Private Athens Evening Excursion
  • Greek Dinner & Show
  • Private Volcano & Hot Spring Excursion
  • Nea Kameni Island
  • Palea Kameni Island
  • Therasia Island
  • Oia Island
  • Wine Tour
  • Heraklion Island
  • Private Spinalonga Excursion
  • Spinalonga Fort*
  • Kolokytha Island
  • Saint Nicholas Town

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS TOUR

SULEYMANIYE MOSQUE
An Ottoman imperial mosque since the 16th century.

BEAUTIFUL ISTANBUL ARCHITECTURE

Our guide will share with you the pride and glory of 3rd century churches, grand imperial mosques and palaces, waterfront mansions built by European settlers and stone houses built during former Anatolian empires. Enjoy gourmet Turkish food, then dance with a panoramic view of the Bosphorus on a dinner cruise.

SPECTACULAR ISLANDS & VOLCANIC CRATERS

Enjoy your private boat excursions to explore the breathtaking islands of Santorini and Crete. Take in their extraordinary beauty. You’ll visit incredible beaches, ancient ruins, unique calderas, wineries and exquisite villages like Oia.

SUNSET IN OIA
The perfect spot to catch a sunset. The sky's orange glow against the cliffside homes is some of Mother Nature's best art.
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GREAT CUISINE, SPICES AND SHOPPING

Two foodie paradises in one trip! Discover food shopping in Turkey, from neighborhood open-air markets to the historic Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar. Taste juicy kebabs and irresistible baklavas followed by Greece’s fresh seafood, olive oil and local wine.


Tour Plan ▷

Hotels ▷
Dates & Prices ▷


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1

Major USA Airport - Istanbul (IST)

Depart from your North America airport to fly to Istanbul. Night on board the aircraft.
*If your flight departs in the early morning hours, you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day i.e. early Friday morning means Thursday night!
2

Arrive Istanbul, Turkey

Upon arrival into Istanbul, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.
*Hotel check-in time is generally 4 pm or later. If your flight arrives in the early morning (e.g. midnight or 7 am) we suggest you add a pre-tour hotel night during booking for a well-deserved rest before starting your tour.
3

Istanbul | Old City Tour, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

Discover the best of Historic Areas of Istanbul (UNESCO World Heritage Site) on this city tour. Visit Topkapi Palace, the ornate residence of sultans of the past. Stroll to the timeless Hagia Sophia mosque, the pride and glory of Byzantine architecture. Take in the structure’s imposing façade, matched only by the grandeur of the towering vaulted ceilings within. Visit Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. Next is the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) that is famous for its architecture as well as its blue tiles and then the Hippodrome (Sultanahmet Square) where chariot races were held.
In the evening we board the Bosphorus cruise and enjoy delicious gourmet food. You can dance with a panoramic view of the straits that separates the two continents Europe and Asia.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast    Enjoy local authentic cuisine during your dinner at one of our travel tours. Develop new friendships with other members along the way.  Dinner

TOPKAPI PALACE
This large museum was the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

UNDERGROUND BASILICA CISTERN
This underground water reservoir is known as the Basilica Cistern because it lay underneath the Stoa Basilica.

CHURCH OF THE HOLY SAVIOUR IN CHORA
An interesting cultural transition, this former medieval Greek Orthodox church is Kariye Mosque today.

4

Istanbul | Golden Horh Tour

After breakfast, proceed for a half day Istanbul Golden Horn Tour.
Experience the lively Grand Bazaar; one of the oldest covered markets in the world. Stroll through the vibrant lanes dotted with over 4000 shops and expose your senses to this melting pot of colors, sounds, and scents. Watch skillful local artisans and craftsmen work on their masterpieces and try out your bargaining skills.
Visit Süleymaniye Mosque and walk through its vast, airy interior while keeping an eye out for some of the finest examples of calligraphy in the city. Head to the adjacent gardens for a chance to appreciate the stunning vistas of the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. Continue to Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Market. Wander through this captivating marketplace with your guide and take in the myriad of sights, flavors, and aromas from the stalls selling fragrant herbs and decadent treats.
Optional add-on: Dolmabahce Palace.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast

SULEYMANIYE MOSQUE
An Ottoman imperial mosque since the 16th century.

GRAND BAZAAR
A must see, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.

5

Istanbul - Athens | Evening Excursion, Greek Dinner Show

Transfer to the airport and fly to Athens.  At Athens airport you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free.
Start your tour of Greece with a private evening excursion of Athens, beginning with a short panoramic drive through the city center and on to the slopes of the sacred hill to admire the illuminated Acropolis (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Then a pleasant walk through the narrow picturesque streets of Plaka, the old city. Continue to a Greek Tavern for a traditional dinner and a performance of live music and Greek Folk Dances in traditional costumes.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast    Enjoy local authentic cuisine during your dinner at one of our travel tours. Develop new friendships with other members along the way.  Dinner

5th CENTURY ACROPOLIS OF ATHENS
Admire the striking illuminated Acropolis atop a limestone ridge on the Attica plateau.

PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY PLASKA DISTRICT
Stroll through quaint cobblestone streets lined with interesting tiny shops, sidewalk cafes and family-run tavernas.

6

Athens - Santorini By Ferry

Hotel check-out and travel by hydrofoil to arguably the best-known and most breathtaking of all of the Greek islands: Santorini. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free.
Believed by some to be the lost continent of Atlantis – this historic and unimaginably picturesque island is situated on the edge of a submerged volcano. Stand high on the cliffs to admire the incredible views of white Cycladic houses with blue painted windows that have inspired artists over the ages. During your free time, sample the distinguished local wines and sunbathe on one of its many beautiful beaches which are home to transparent azure waters, with black, red or white sand depending on which beach you visit.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast
7

Santorini | Volcano And Hot Springs Excursion

Today, we sail on a traditional boat to small islands that are home to volcanos, hot springs and traditional villages.
Visit the crater of the active volcano at the top of the island of Nea Kameni ("new burnt" in Greek) for a 1.5 hour visit.
Then sail to Palea Kameni, "old burnt", where thermal springs provide natural warm-water bathing. The surrounding water and beaches may be cold, and winds can be daunting. Your visit will be about 30 minutes long.
The next destination is Therasia Island and its typical Cycladic village. Tiny houses of various colors give a special character to these small settlements. You have about 1.5-2 hours to explore on your own. For example, discover Manolios village by walking up winding stairs (250 steps) or by a donkey ride; taste some traditional Santorini cuisine on your own; or enjoy a swim.
Next stop is Oia, one of the most photographed places in Greece. Small white houses dot the hillside, interspersed by splashes of rich okra, deep fuchsia, cobalt blue, oyster pink and earthy red. It has inspired artists, poets and every traveler who has been here.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast

DEEP DIVE IN SANTORINI
Leave your hectic life behind for a few days in beautiful Santorini. Explore the
volcanos, small islands & wineries.

SUNSET IN OIA
The perfect spot to catch a sunset. The sky's orange glow against the cliffside homes is some of Mother Nature's best art.

SANTORINI VOLCANO SUNSET
A perfect ending!

8

Santorini | Wine Tour

Take this half-day wine tour of the Santorini countryside and visit the most distinctive and traditional wineries on the island. Taste a selection of 12 different styles of wine from Santorini including Assyrtiko, Nykteri and Vinsanto, accompanied with local delicacies such as cheese and local snacks.
Learn the island's history through its wine-making from your wine-expert guide. Winemaking on Santorini dates back more than 4.000 years. We will start the tour at a vineyard on the volcanic soils. Stroll through the unique basket vines, learning about the unique viticulture that makes vine-growing in Santorini respected worldwide.
The rest of the day is free.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast
 

SAVOR THE VIEW
Savor the view and enjoy fresh seafood with a healthy dose of Greek sunshine!

GREECE VILLAGES
Explore the timeless villages in Santorini. There is no reason to hurry!

9

Santorini - Heraklion (By Catamaran)

Hotel check-out and proceed to the port to board the catamaran for Heraklion. Arrive and check-in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast
10

Heraklion | Spinalonga Island Excursion

A full day excursion on the sparkling sea of Mirabello Bay in east Crete. Transfer to Elounda village and take a short cruise across the clear blue waters to the tiny island of Spinalonga. A guided tour explores the island and the 16th century Spinalonga Fort (“The Rock”, a tentative UNESCO Heritage Site) which was used by the Venetians and the Turkish Ottoman Empire, and later housed a leper colony.
Continue on your cruise across the bay to Kolokytha island to swim, relax and enjoy a delicious barbeque lunch under the Cretan sun.
On your return trip, stop at the picturesque town of Saint Nicholas where you can take a stroll around the 'bottomless” lake, the pretty harbor, and cosmopolitan shops and tree-lined avenues. Enjoy a relaxing coffee in any of the lakeside cafes, sit back and watch the world go by.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast   Have fun on one of our travel tours with everything include lunches that are prepared and convenient for you. We take the stress away from our guests and allow your more time to really enjoy themselves.  Lunch

CRETAN FISHING BOAT
A common sight in Heraklion the biggest city in Crete. They are used for touring the smaller islands in addition to fishing.

THE ROCK OF SPINALONGA
One of the most striking features of the island are the ancient fortifications.

HERAKLION OLD HARBOR
Filled with colorful fishing boats and ancient Venetian Buildings. No wonder fresh seafood is on the menu everyday.

11

Heraklion

Full day at leisure.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast
12

Heraklion – Athens By Flight

Hotel check-out and proceed to the airport to fly to Athens. On arrival check-in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast
13

Depart Athens – Arrive In N. America

After breakfast, transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH) for your flight home.
*Hotel check-out time is generally around 11 am. If your flight departs in the evening or past midnight, we suggest you consider adding a post-tour hotel night during booking, to be comfortable and well rested before your flight home.
  • Breakfast the most important meal of the day. We select fabulous hotels with both local authentic and western breakfast so you are well prepared to enjoy your travel tours.Breakfast

Overview ▷
Hotels ▷
Dates & Prices ▷
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Hotels We carefully handpick our hotels to ensure they provide you with the best comfort and experience. For Private Tours, you may request a specific hotel as one of the customizable options.

Destination Luxury Class 
Istanbul
Athens
Santorini
Heraklion
Athens
* Hotels mentioned are subject to availability at the time of reservation.

Accommodation Classification

  • COMFORT ⭐⭐⭐- 3-Star Hotels or Equivalent Accommodations
  • PREMIUM ⭐⭐⭐⭐- 4-Star Hotels or Equivalent Accommodations
  • DELUX ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- 5-Star Hotels or Equivalent Accommodations

Hotel Check-in and Check-out

Hotel check-in time is generally 4 pm or later. Check-out time is around 11 am. Hotels usually allow early arrivals and late departures to store your luggage in their luggage room for a few hours.

Pre-Tour Hotel Add-on and Post-Tour Hotel Add-on

Depending on your flight arrival and departure times we may suggest you consider a pre-tour hotel night and/or post-tour hotel night during booking.   The additional night allows you to be well rested before your tour or your flight home.

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Delux Private Tours (Land only )

Recommended Departure: Every Sunday
Year Tour Dates Luxury
2022 Jan 16 to Mar 31 $3,530 + Air
2022 April & May $3,870 + Air
2022 June $4,230 + Air
2022 July & August $4,320 + Air
2022 September $4,230 + Air
2022 October $3,870 + Air
2022 Nov 1 to Dec 15 Please Enquire

Private Tour Price Details

  • ‣ Required add-on: domestic airfare Heraklion - Athens. Indicative fare from $80, actual price available at tour booking.
  • ‣ Daily departure.
  • ‣ Prices are in USD and are inclusive of all applicable taxes but do not include airfare.
  • ‣ Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Special rates for single travelers or larger groups are available on request - please inquire.
  • ‣ Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply during applicable major holidays. 2022 blackout dates: Jan 1-10, April 16-24, June 1-15, Dec 16-31 and major holidays. 2023 blackout dates: Dec 16-31 and major holidays.
  • ‣ Note that tour prices vary according to season. If your tour straddles two seasons then each portion will be priced according to that season.

Flight Add-On

  • ‣ We work with all major airlines for the best routes and competitive pricing.
  • ‣ The nearest arrival airport is IST (Istanbul International Airport).
  • ‣ The nearest departure airport is ATH (Athens International Airport).
  • ‣ Contact us for more detail and pricing.

Inclusions

  • ‣ Private Airport Transfers
  • ‣ Hotel Accommodations
  • ‣ Daily Breakfast and Selected Meals (See tour plan for details)
  • ‣ English-speaking Local Guide
  • ‣ Entrance Fees to Monuments & Attractions per Itinerary
  • ‣ Ferries

Exclusions

  • ‣ International Air Fare
  • ‣ Domestic Air Fare from Heraklion to Athens
  • ‣ Tourism Tax per room per night paid directly to the hotels (example between 3-4 Euros)
  • ‣ Travel Insurance
  • ‣ Medical Expenses
  • Visa Fee
  • ‣ Gratuity
  • ‣ Personal Expenses

Deposit

  • ‣ A deposit of 50% of the land tour price is due within 3 days of booking confirmation. Full payment to be made 70 days prior to the departure date.
  • ‣ The airfare is due upon flight booking. Airfare and flight schedule shown are indicative only. Actual prices and schedule will be available at flight booking. All airfares are subject to change until paid in full at time of ticketing..
  • ‣ Monthly installment plan is available - please inquire.
  • ‣ Credit card fee for American Express and non-US issued credit card is 1%. No charge for most other credit cards.

Terms & Conditions >


Optional Add-Ons

  • ‣ Pre-tour hotel night
  • ‣ Post-tour hotel night

Suggested Gratuity

  • ‣ Local Guide: US $7 per person per day of sightseeing. US $4 per half day of sightseeing.
  • ‣ Driver: US $5 per person per day of sightseeing. US $3 per half day of sightseeing.
  • ‣ Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollars. You can tip the guides and drivers when they finish their assignment with you e.g. end of day, end of city stay, on departure, etc.

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