OLYMPIC TURKEY & GREECE

At the hotel, our assistant will help with the check-in. The rest of the day will be for relaxation and starting to enjoy the stunning city.

Greca Tip: Find the best tips to maximize your trip in the following article: Everything you need to know about Turkey.

After you've fueled up with breakfast, we'll swing by your hotel or the nearest meeting spot to kick off. A full-day adventure exploring Istanbul is starting.

Get ready for an epic experience with our friendly English-speaking guide. This includes all-inclusive tickets and a scrumptious lunch at a central city restaurant. You will also visit the most important landmarks of the Ottoman, Byzantine, and Roman empires.

Together, we’ll create memories that will last a lifetime in this marvelous city. Prepare to be awestruck by the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace. And don't miss the vibrant Grand Bazaar, It has over 4000 stores to indulge in an unforgettable shopping spree. 

Once the tour concludes, you're welcome to soak up the enchanting ambiance of the old city a little longer. When you're ready, you can make your way back to your hotel.

Greca Tip: For a jaw-dropping panoramic view of Istanbul, make sure to visit Camlica Hill on the Asian side. Feast your eyes on the cityscape, the Golden Horn, and the mesmerizing Bosphorus. It's a sight you won't want to miss!

In the morning, your friendly English-speaking assistant will pick you up and transfer you to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Ankara, the capital of Turkey.

In Ankara, we'll have the opportunity to visit the renowned Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which showcases the fascinating history and culture of the Anatolian region.

We'll also explore the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, honoring the nation's revered founding father and first president.

Afterward, we'll embark on a picturesque journey toward the enchanting region of Cappadocia, known for its surreal landscapes and captivating cave architecture.

Along the way to your hotel, we'll make a stop at one of the region's largest underground cities, marveling at its intricate tunnels and chambers.

Upon arriving at your hotel, you can settle in, enjoy a delicious dinner, and relax, preparing for the adventures that await you in Cappadocia.

Greca Tip: Don't forget to consult with your guide about the possibility of joining an unforgettable hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia (subject to weather conditions). It's an experience that promises breathtaking views and lasting memories.

On this day, you will focus on exploring the beautiful region of Cappadocia. After a satisfying breakfast, your first stop will be the Göreme Valley. Here, you can visit the open-air museum and witness the ancient villages where cave dwellers lived in prehistoric times. You will also have the opportunity to explore the underground cities.

The Göreme Valley holds historical significance as it is where St. Basil the Great and his Christian brothers brought together the ideas of Christianity. You can explore the various churches, chapels, and monasteries in the area, which feature ancient frescoes painted on their walls.

Next, you will head to the Troglodyte Village of Uçhisar and the Avcilar Valley, which offer breathtaking landscapes. The unique rock formations in these areas will leave you in awe.

Continuing your journey, you will pass through the Devrent Valley, also known as the Imaginary Valley. Here, you will encounter peculiar rock formations that resemble mushrooms and other animal shapes.

To complete your day, you will visit local artisan workshops, including carpet-making and jewelry shops that specialize in translucent onyx stones, which are highly sought after.

After a fulfilling day of exploration, you will return to your hotel, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night.

Greca Tip: While in Cappadocia, a hot-air balloon ride over the historic cave dwellings of Goreme Town is simply a must!

After breakfast, we will visit Hierapolis, an ancient Hellenistic city declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We will explore the ruins of the Necropolis and the ancient Roman baths, as well as the natural park known as the "Cotton Castle," which, due to its natural beauty and the properties of its thermal waters, has been attracting visitors since pre-Christian times.

Later, we will enjoy some free time for lunch, and then we will head to Meryemana, where we will visit the House of the Virgin Mary, the supposed last residence of the mother of Jesus.

We will continue to Ephesus, the ancient Roman capital of Asia Minor, where Cleopatra, Mark Antony, and the Apostle Saint Paul walked. In Ephesus, we will visit the ruins of the Odeon, the Arch of Hercules, the Library of Celsus, the Greco-Roman Theatre, as well as the Agora and the Basilica of Saint John.

In the late afternoon, we will arrive at the hotel for check-in and dinner.

Greca Tip: The word Kusadasi means "Island of the Birds." Although cruises dominate the scene!

Early in the morning, after a wonderful breakfast, we will continue to Izmir to fly back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, we will be transfered to the hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Greca Tip: Don´t miss a traditional Turkish dinner with a "baklava" for dessert!

When it's time, we'll make sure you reach Istanbul International Airport smoothly for your flight to Athens.

Upon your arrival in this historic European capital, we'll arrange a comfortable transfer to your hotel using one of our private vehicles.

To help you settle in, your friendly English-speaking assistant will warmly welcome you and provide a quick overview of the city and its vibrant daily life. They'll also share all the important details about your trip and gladly address any questions.

The rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore this renowned city at your own pace.

Greca Tip: Want a breathtaking view of Athens that stretches to the coastline? Hop on the funicular railway to Lycabettus Hill and treat yourself to a panoramic vista that's sure to leave you in awe.

Today, we embark on an exciting adventure that begins with a visit to the Corinth Canal. Marvel at this impressive channel that connects the Aegean with the Ionian Sea and don't forget to capture some stunning photos.

Next, we will be transported to the captivating world of Epidaurus, dating back to the 4th century BC. Immerse yourself in the cultural wonders of this ancient site, with its renowned Theater being the best-preserved in all of Greece.

Continuing on our journey, a brief stop in Nauplion, Greece's first capital, awaits. Then, prepare to step back in time as we explore the Acropolis of Mycenae, the heart of the Mycenaean civilization.

Within its walls, we will encounter the impressive Cyclopean walls, the iconic Lions Gate, ancient royal tombs, the Palace, an underground cistern with 99 steps, and the tombs of Egisto and Clytemnestra. Adjacent to the Acropolis, we will discover a tomb believed to be the final resting place of King Agamemnon.

As the day draws to a close, we will journey through the picturesque central Peloponnese region and arrive in the city of Olympia, where we will spend the night.

Greca Tip: Take time to indulge in the amenities offered by your hotel or enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.

In the morning, we'll explore the site of the ancient Olympic Stadium, where the inaugural games took place around 776 BC. These games held great significance, with Greek cities putting aside conflicts to participate in the celebrations. The Olympiad became a crucial chronological event, spanning four years between consecutive gatherings.

Olympia, besides being the birthplace of the Olympics, was the most revered sanctuary in Ancient Greece—a place to honor Zeus, the supreme deity. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world was the colossal gold and ivory sculpture created by Phidias.

After visiting the Olympia Museum, our journey continues to Delphi, crossing the impressive Rion-Antirion Bridge, an architectural marvel of modern times. Once we arrive in Delphi, we'll have a delicious dinner and rest.

Greca Tip: In the evening, consider exploring the nearby town of Arachova to experience its traditional charm. Enjoy a drink at a stylish café or a local kafeneio (coffee shop).

In the morning and after a solid breakfast, we will visit Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center or navel of the ancient world. There the renowned Oracle of Delphi, a counselor of kings and pilgrims, took shelter.

You cannot miss out on a visit to the Delphi Archeological Museum, which houses the "bronze charioteer," a masterpiece of Greek sculpture.

At the end of our Delphi tour, you will leave the slopes of Mount Parnassus, and head towards the plains of Thessaly, where the city of Kalambaka is located.               

So, we will arrive in Kalambaka for dinner and accommodation.

Greca Tip: We suggest using your free time to visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia at Delphi.

In the early morning, we will embark on a visit to Meteora, a captivating site that has been recognized as a World Heritage Site since 1988.

This mystical landscape showcases a remarkable combination of natural beauty and the awe-inspiring presence of monasteries perched atop towering rocks, known as "Meteora." Currently, six monasteries are still in use, with five serving the male monastic community and one housing the female community.

On our return journey to Athens, we will pass through Thermopylae, where you can catch a glimpse of the statue honoring Spartan King Leonidas I. He is renowned for his leadership during the famous battle against the Persians in 480 BC.

As the afternoon draws to a close, we will arrive in Athens and check in at your hotel.

Greca Tip: Make sure to visit the Center for Historical Information in Thermopylae, where you can delve into the historical events and learn more about the key figures involved in the battle.

Today, you have the opportunity to enjoy a free day in Athens, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for an enchanting experience, you can opt for a captivating one-day cruise to three stunning islands nestled in the picturesque Saronic Gulf.

On the one hand, if you choose to embark on the full-day cruise, you will be conveniently transferred to the port, where your adventure begins. The itinerary includes visits to three remarkable islands: Aegina, renowned for its delightful assortment of pistachios; Poros, celebrated for its scenic beauty; and Hydra, the greenest among these islands, boasting elegant stone mansions, a tranquil atmosphere, and car-free streets.

On board the ship, you can indulge in a delectable lunch accompanied by traditional Greek music and dance. At the end of the day, you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless experience.

On the other hand, if you decide to spend the day in Athens, you will have the freedom to explore the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks at your own leisurely pace.

Greca Tip: You can add the cruise during step 1/3 while booking. If you do, make sure to try the different varieties of pistachio nuts grown on the famous island of Aegina!

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your own pace—sleep in, explore nearby areas, or simply unwind—before meeting your assistant at Syntagma Square at 15:40 to witness the Changing of the Guards in front of the Hellenic Parliament at 16:00.

Shortly after, we will board our vehicle together and begin a panoramic city tour, offering a comprehensive introduction to Athens and its most important landmarks. During the tour, we will see:

The Athenian Trilogy (National Library, University of Athens, and Academy of Athens), the Presidential Residence, the Kallimarmaro Stadium (Panathenaic Stadium), the Zappeion, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Gate, while making short stops to take in the beauty of these landmarks and capture memorable photos.

Our tour will come to an end at the top of Philopappou Hill, offering stunning views of the city. Here, our assistant will provide recommendations for those who wish to continue exploring independently, whether visiting the Acropolis, discovering Monastiraki, or enjoying a meal in Plaka.

This tour is conveniently designed to finish at around 19:30, allowing you some time to rest before making your way to Mornastiraki to join the Athens by Night Walking Tour, and see another side of the city under the moonlight.

Greca Tip: If you wish to visit the Acropolis, you can do so at your own pace, in the morning or after the afternoon tour, keeping in mind that the site closes at sunset. You can purchase your tickets for the Acropolis in step 2 of your reservation.

At the appointed time, a member of our staff will drive you to Athens International Airport, where you will check-in your luggage and benefit from any tax returns on your last minute "tax-free" shopping for family and friends.

Undoubtedly and after spending a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to create new and extraordinary moments that will be etched in your memory forever.

Have a nice trip! Or as the Greeks say: "Kalo taksidi!"

Greca Tip: As a going away gift you can choose from a wide range of brightly colored flokati rugs, handmade sandals, embroidered covers and Greek honey or olive oil.