Greece & Turkey Highlights - 10 Days

Welcome to Istanbul. We arrange your transfer to the hotel, and you then have free time. In the afternoon we provide practical information, either in person or via the noticeboard at hotel reception.

A comprehensive city tour awaits. We enter the Süleymaniye Mosque, explore the ancient walls, the Golden Horn and the lively fishing quarter, and admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia. We also include tickets for the Topkapi Palace, former administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire with its magnificent courtyards and pavilions. In the afternoon you have free time to discover this city that bridges two continents. As evening approaches we provide a transfer to Taksim – you can dine in one of its many restaurants and see the nostalgic tram, or visit the nearby Galata Tower.

Today we embark on a Bosphorus cruise of about two hours on a private boat for our group, sailing the strait that links the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara and divides Istanbul between Europe and Asia. We enjoy the bustle of passing boats, glide beneath the two bridges, and admire sultans’ palaces, traditional wooden mansions and fine Ottoman architecture. Afterwards we return to central Istanbul and you have free time.

We depart early from Istanbul and arrive around lunchtime at Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient cities of Asia Minor, once home to a quarter of a million people. We visit the Basilica of St John, the House of the Virgin Mary and the archaeological site (tickets included). We then continue to Kusadasi, a popular coastal town known for its vibrant atmosphere, shopping and quaint castle, where we stay overnight with dinner included. Please note: from May to October accommodation may be in Aydin instead – in this case, after exploring Ephesus we stop in Kusadasi from 4.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. for a panoramic tour before continuing to Aydin.

We leave early to visit Lake Bafa, one of Turkey’s natural wonders, pausing to take in its tranquil beauty. We continue to Bodrum, a striking fortified city of Greek origin – you can visit the impressive castle, wander its lively streets or spend time at the marina. After lunch we proceed to Marmaris, another picturesque coastal resort noted for its castle, pier and fountains. Dinner is included. Please note: on some departures, especially in summer, accommodation may be in nearby Mugla rather than Marmaris.

We set off towards Greece early in the morning and board the express ferry to Rhodes – the crossing takes about an hour – completing standard border formalities. On arrival we tour the remarkable walled city and historic quarter, shaped by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Knights of St John, Ottoman and Italian influences. In the afternoon you have free time to explore at your own pace. Please note: the Rhodes–Marmaris ferry timetable is subject to frequent changes and does not operate daily except in summer, so this section of the journey may be adjusted.

Today we leave Rhodes city for an included excursion around the island. Our first stop is Filerimos, set atop a hill, where you can visit the monastery amid beautiful landscapes. We then continue to Lindos to explore its fortress and Acropolis, with breathtaking sea views. You can stroll through the whitewashed lanes, relax on a beach or opt for a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis. Later we regroup at the port of Rhodes to board the ferry to Athens.

We continue by ferry from Rhodes to Athens.

In the morning we include a panoramic tour of Athens, cradle of Western civilisation, taking in sights such as the Panathenaic Stadium, the Royal Palace, and the grand avenues and neoclassical buildings that define the city’s character. You then have free time. In the evening we provide a transfer to the historic neighbourhood of Plaka, one of the city’s most charming areas, where you can wander its lively lanes, browse traditional shops and dine in Greek tavernas to experience the country’s folklore and gastronomy.

After breakfast our journey comes to an end, leaving you with wonderful memories.