Highlights of Northern Greece & Turkey - 13 Days
Who is this trip for
Age range
12 - 100Start / End
- Athens
- Istanbul
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 15Meals included
15Highlights
- Step back in time to legendary Greece, exploring the historic battleground of Thermopylae and standing before the awe-inspiring Royal Tomb of King Phillip II at the Polycentric Museum of Aigai.
- Indulge in authentic Greek culture with a meze tasting on a cultural stroll through Volos, followed by a delightful day of village-hopping, hiking to a centaur cave, and relaxing on the picturesque beaches of Kato Gatzea.
- Trek near the mythical peaks of Mount Olympus, home of the gods, then immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, exploring its Roman Forum, museums, and savouring regional specialties on an optional walking food tour.
- Cross into Turkey to walk the hallowed grounds of Gallipoli, where WWI history comes alive. Then, unravel the myths of ancient Troy and wander the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Ephesus, imagining life in a bygone era.
- Be enchanted by the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, with its iconic 'fairy chimneys.' Explore the fascinating Kaymakli underground city and choose to trek through stunning valleys or experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
- Delight your taste buds with a hands-on 'Turkish pizza' (pide) making demonstration in Selçuk and witness local craftsmanship with a visit to the G-supported Çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation.
Talk to a travel expert
Our experts are ready to perfect your trip with personalised advice on itineraries, transfers, and local tips.
Email UsCall Us: 0208 004 8886
Free Brochure
Uncover insider tips, see a packing list and view a detailed itinerary and accommodation information.
Summary
Journey through the legends of Greece and Turkey on this unforgettable 13-day adventure where history, culture, and jaw-dropping landscapes collide. Step onto ancient battlegrounds at Thermopylae, savour a meze tasting on a cultural stroll through Volos, and stand before the Royal Tomb of King Phillip in Vergina. Then, cross into Turkey to wander the ruins of Troy and Ephesus, descend into the hidden world of Kaymakli’s underground city, and soak in the otherworldly beauty of Cappadocia. From mythic tales to mouthwatering flavours, this trip promises a full camera roll, a happy heart, and stories you’ll be telling for years to come.
Itinerary
Day 1
Athens/Vólos
Thermopylae is an ancient battlefield where Greek (mainly Spartan) soldiers held off the Persian army for three days. A battle which acted as inspiration for the movie 300.
Day 2
Vólos
Head out from Volos today on a day of exploration and cultural immersion, hopping village-to-village. Explore Milies and take a short hike to a cave, stop by a women's co-op in Vizitsa then visit the town of Pinakates and have beach time at Kato Gatzea before returning to Volos in the evening. Each stop provides a unique glance into the daily life in this beautiful corner of the world.
Day 3
Vólos/Thessaloníki
Drive north from Volos, stopping at Mount Olympus National Park for a short walk near the mountain that was home to the gods in Greek mythology. Continue to the Polycentric Museum of Aigai to tour the tombs and see the archaeological artifacts before carrying to Thessaloniki. Join your CEO for an orientation walk and enjoy a free evening.
Day 4
Thessaloníki
Take advantage of a free day to explore Thessaloniki. Discover historic landmarks like the Roman Forum, visit museums or take a walking food tour, sampling dishes like Greek 'meze' and other regional specialties. In the evening, head out for an optional dinner at one of your CEO's favourite local spots.
Day 5
Thessaloníki/Kavala
Wave goodbye to Thessaloniki this morning and drive to the city of Kavala. Settle in and orient yourself with a CEO-led orientation walk of the old town with the option to walk up to the castle for great views of the city and of the sea. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring or to relax.
Day 6
Kavala/Istanbul
Depart Kavala in the morning and drive east to the city of Alexandropoli. Take a short walk with the CEO to explore the area and have some time for lunch before continuing on to the Turkish border and onwards to Istanbul, arriving in the evening.
Day 7
Istanbul/Çanakkale
Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.
It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.
Day 8
Çanakkale/Selçuk
Visit the nearby historic and world-famous city of Troy and then visit the G-supported Cöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation, which support the local women who work in the workshop. Continue south to Selçuk for the next couple of nights.
Day 9
Selçuk/Izmir
Tour the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus for a glimpse into what life was like thousands of years before in this part of what is now Turkey. After driving back to Selçuk, learn all about how to make "Turkish pizza," called pide before transferring north to the city of Izmir for some exploration before hopping on the overnight train.
Day 10
Konya/Cappadocia
Transfer to Cappadocia for 2 days of exploring the surreal and spectacular landscapes of the area.
Day 11
Cappadocia
Outdoor enthusiast? Hire a bike to get around on two wheels or join your CEO on an optional trekking tour through one of the beautiful valleys of the region.
Day 12
Cappadocia/Istanbul
Continue on to İstanbul for the opportunity to finish up your sightseeing or get in some last minute shopping.
Day 13
Istanbul
Depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (12 nts).
Meals
Breakfasts: 12, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 2
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Apr 26
from £2,192May 26
from £2,321Jun 26
from £2,321Jul 26
from £2,579Aug 26
from £2,321Sep 26
from £2,715Oct 26
from £2,424Nov 26
from £2,424Apr 27
from £2,424May 27
from £2,424Jun 27
from £2,424Jul 27
from £2,424Aug 27
from £2,424Sep 27
from £2,424Oct 27
from £2,424Nov 27
from £2,424
- Save 18%Sun 26 Apr 2026 > Fri 8 May 2026Guaranteed Departure🔥3 spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£2,659Best offer£2,192Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Still have questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.
Why book with us
Help Change The World
We collaborate with local businesses and communities.
Best Price Guaranteed
We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!
You're In Good Hands
We work with trusted tour operators around the world.
You're spoilt for choice
We have the best choice of adventures on the market.
