Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This trip includes iconic sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon, a walk on the legendary Thermopylae battlefield, a hands-on cooking class in Athens, and beach time at Kato Gatzea.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation on this trip will involve a mix of private vehicles, taxi, train, walking, and an overnight ferry. You should be prepared to carry your own luggage short distances (up to 15 minutes walk) between transport and hotels.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 1 dinner.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in small, locally-run hotels or pensions for all 13 nights. While facilities may vary, such as the absence of elevators or air-conditioning in some rooms (fans provided if needed), they are selected for their traditional character and central locations.

• Who will lead the group on this tour?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will be with you throughout the trip, supplemented by local guides for specific excursions.

• Is there an option for a private room for solo travellers?

  Yes, if you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Please note that single rooms in European hotels can sometimes be smaller than double-occupancy rooms. Solo travellers on group trips are otherwise paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex without an extra cost.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers is a priority. We encourage you to visit the LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  Credit and debit cards, especially Visa, are useful for cash advances, and ATMs are commonly available. However, there are no guarantees your cards will work everywhere. A combination of Euros, traveller’s cheques, and cards is best. You can refer to www.xe.com for daily exchange rates.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include the Athens Bike Tour, visits to the Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, and National Archaeological Museum in Athens. In Meteora, you can opt for a Sunset Tour or a Guided Monasteries Hiking Tour. In Nafplio, options include Bourtzi Castle, Archaeology Museum, War Museum, Acronafplia, Palamidi Fortress, and Tiryns Site. Visits to Epidavros and Mycenae are also optional, as are the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and Nea Paralia in Thessaloniki.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this trip?

  Tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% for wait staff, and €1 or €2 for other service providers. For local guides, €3-5 per day is recommended. For your CEO, €30-€40 per person, per week is suggested as a guideline at the end of the trip.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please ensure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if unforeseen circumstances require a change to the planned route.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. The tour operator covers all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will directly support Planeterra projects.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It's strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects. Ensure your policy covers all included activities.

• What are the safety and security guidelines for this trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice, using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leaving valuable jewellery at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities at night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also not acceptable. Your CEO has the right to expel any group member found in possession of drugs or utilizing the services of paid sex workers.

• Are laundry facilities available on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the closest laundromat. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for personal laundry.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the trip?

  In a situation of dire need, first call the local office. If there's no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. You can also contact the tour operator Berlin office at +441858378000, or the sales team at numbers like 1 888 800 4100 (North America) or +1 416 260 0999 (outside specific regions).

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for current check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes. Leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug. Please assess your ability to cope with the travel style described.