Great Southeast Europe (17 destinations)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Greece and Turkey, where ancient history meets vibrant modern culture. From the iconic landmarks of Athens to the serene beauty of Santorini, this journey offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover the rich tapestry of cultural influences in Rhodes, the architectural marvels of Istanbul, and the coastal charms of Crete. With carefully curated experiences, comfortable accommodations, and delightful culinary adventures, this tour promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of these captivating regions.
Included
Breakfast buffet
4 dinner included in: Kalabaka, SANDANSKY, Kusadasi, MARMARIS
Basic travel insurance included.
Includes arrival transfer
Evening transfer: Plaka neighborhood in Athens, Taksim Square in Istanbul
ATENAS
: NOVOTEL ATHENES or DIVANI METEORA or DOMOTEL LES LAZARISTES
SANDANSKY
: PIRIN PARK HOTEL or RAMADA SOFIA or GRAND CEVAHIR
KUSADASI
: RAMADA ENCORE BY WYNDHAM IZMIR or MAVI or PASABEY
MARMARIS
: LABERNA or RODOS PALACE or IBIS STYLES HERAKLION
SANTORINI
: SANTORINI COSTA GRAND RESORT or SAN ANTONIO SUMMERLAND
We know how important hotels are on your trip. The hotels have been selected taking into consideration quality, price and location. They are located in the cities we visit, most of them not in the city center but all of them with easy access to public transportation nearby. Our accommodation is not based on luxury hotels. Please keep in mind that standards, bed sizes and room dimensions can vary between hotels of the same class in different locations. All rooms are equipped with private bathroom and TV. Some of them also offer a mini-bar, safe box, and hair dryer. Many hotels, mainly in North Europe, do not have air conditioning or local legislation establishes limited dates of use.
English speaking tour in: ATHENS, SOFIA, ISTANBUL, Rhodes
Please note also that your tour guide might be changed once or several times during the tour. On some tours, according to the number of passengers, the service may be provided in bilingual (usually in English and Spanish), either accompanied by two tour leaders, one for each language, or a single tour leader for smaller groups explaining in both languages.
Flights included: Sofia/ Istanbul, Flight Rhodes-Crete with transfers
City tour in: ATHENS, SOFIA, ISTANBUL, Rhodes
Ticket admission: Monastery at Meteoras, Monastery , Sofia Cathedral , Suleiman the Great Mosque and Topkapi Palace in Istanbul , house of the Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, Ruins of Ephesus , Palace of Knossos at Heraklion with visit , Panagia Kera Church; Island-Citadel Spinalong
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Athens
- Kallithea - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting city of Athens, where your multi-day tour begins. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel (Hilton or similar), where you can unwind and enjoy some leisure time. In the afternoon, gather information about the start of your journey from the hotel reception. Prepare to immerse yourself in a blend of ancient history and vibrant modern culture.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Athens
- Kallithea
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- Acropolis Museum
- Kazoulis mansion
- National Archaeological Museum of Athens
- Panathenaic Stadium
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Embark on a guided city tour of Athens, where you'll witness the grandeur of the Presidential Mansion and the historic Panathenaic Stadium. Marvel at the architectural beauty of the National Library and explore the vibrant city squares. Conclude your tour at the iconic Acropolis, a testament to Greece's rich history. In the evening, enjoy a transfer to the charming neighborhood of Plaka, where you can savor traditional Greek cuisine and immerse yourself in local folklore.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Northern Greece
- Kallithea
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- Gorgopotamos bridge
- Meteora
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Depart early from Athens, heading north to the picturesque town of Kamena Vourla. Continue to the historic Thermopylae Mountain Pass, a site of legendary battles. Enjoy lunch in the charming village of Kastraki, with its stunning valley views. Explore the awe-inspiring Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit one of its renowned monasteries. Conclude your day with dinner in Kalabaka, where you'll stay overnight.
Day 4 – Day 4: From Greece to Bulgaria
- Thessaloniki
- Melnik
- Sandanski
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Travel through the scenic landscapes of northern Greece, arriving in Thessaloniki for a leisurely exploration and lunch. Cross into Bulgaria, visiting the picturesque town of Melnik, famed for its wine production. End your day in Sandanski, a spa town known for its historical significance as the birthplace of Spartacus. Enjoy a delightful dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discovering Bulgaria
- Rila
- Sofia
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- Rila Monastery
- Boyana Church
- St Mina Monastery
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Visit the stunning Rila Monastery, surrounded by lush forests and renowned for its fortress-like appearance. Continue to Sofia, Bulgaria's capital, for a guided tour of its architectural marvels, including the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Russian Church. Enjoy free time to explore the city's vibrant streets before settling in for the night.
Day 6 – Day 6: Arrival in Istanbul
- Sofia
- Istanbul
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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you'll be taken to your hotel (Sofitel or similar), where you can relax and explore the city at your own pace. Detailed information about the next leg of your journey will be provided in the afternoon.
Day 7 – Day 7: Exploring Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Hagia Irene
- Topkapı Palace
- Süleymaniye Mosque
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Embark on a captivating tour of Istanbul, visiting the grand Süleymaniye Mosque and admiring the exterior of the iconic Hagia Sophia. Delve into the history of the Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city's vibrant streets. As evening approaches, transfer to Taksim, where you can dine at local restaurants and experience the lively atmosphere.
Day 8 – Day 8: Bosphorus Adventure
- Istanbul
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- İstanbul Boğazı
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Set sail on a private boat trip along the Bosphorus, witnessing the vibrant activity of this iconic strait. Marvel at the Sultan's palaces and traditional wooden houses lining the shores. After the boat journey, return to central Istanbul for some leisure time to explore the city's rich cultural tapestry.
Day 9 – Day 9: Ancient Wonders of Ephesus
- Istanbul
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- El Heykeli
- Basilica Of Saint John
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Depart Istanbul and journey to Ephesus, the best-preserved ancient city of Asia Minor. Explore the Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary. After immersing yourself in history, continue to the vibrant coastal town of Kusadasi, where you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 10 – Day 10: Coastal Charms of Turkey
- Bodrum
- Marmaris
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- Ladies Beach
- Bodrum Castle
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Visit the serene Lake Bafa before continuing to Bodrum, where you can explore its impressive castle and lively marina. After lunch, proceed to Marmaris, a picturesque coastal destination known for its vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in this charming town.
Day 11 – Day 11: Crossing to Rhodes
- Marmaris
- Rhodes
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Board an express ferry from Marmaris to Rhodes, where you'll explore the remarkable walled city and historic quarter. Discover the rich tapestry of cultural influences that have shaped this island. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to wander at your leisure.
Day 12 – Day 12: Exploring Rhodes Island
- Rhodes
- Heraklion
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- Lindos Acropolis
- Ιερά Μονή Φιλερήμου
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Embark on an excursion to explore the island of Rhodes, starting with the serene Filerimos Monastery. Continue to Lindos, where you can visit its fortress and Acropolis, offering breathtaking sea views. Return to Rhodes city for some free time before your evening flight to Crete.
Day 13 – Day 13: Discovering Crete's Coastal Gems
- Heraklion
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- Old Chania Market
- Venetian Fortezza Castle
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Journey along Crete's coast, visiting the picturesque city of Rethymno with its medieval castle. Continue to Chania, a city rich in history and architectural beauty. Return to Heraklion for an overnight stay, reflecting on the day's captivating experiences.
Day 14 – Day 14: Minoan Mysteries and Coastal Retreats
- Heraklion
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- Minoan Palace of Phaistos
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Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos, delving into the Minoan culture that laid the foundation for Greek civilization. Travel through Crete's mountainous landscapes to Agia Galini, a charming town with winding streets and a picturesque fishing port. Enjoy lunch and a swim before returning to Heraklion.
Day 15 – Day 15: Cultural Treasures of Eastern Crete
- Heraklion
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- Naos Panagias Keras
- Spinalonga
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Visit the 13th-century church of Panagia Kera in Kritsa, renowned for its exquisite frescoes. Continue to Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town with a natural port. Embark on a boat ride to Spinalonga Island to explore its Venetian fortress. Return to Heraklion for an overnight stay.
Day 16 – Day 16: Santorini's Scenic Splendor
- Heraklion
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Take a high-speed ferry to Santorini, arriving in the morning. Travel to Oia, the island's most beautiful town, known for its vibrant white streets and stunning cliffside views. Enjoy lunch and explore the charming streets before visiting Fira, the island's capital. Consider a boat trip to the hot springs for a memorable sunset experience.
Day 17 – Day 17: Mythical Mykonos
- Mykonos
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- Vittle veneci
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After breakfast, take a ferry to Mykonos, where you'll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy free time to wander through the quaint narrow streets, visit the iconic Little Venice, and see the famous windmills. Immerse yourself in the island's vibrant atmosphere and rich mythology.
Day 18 – Day 18: Leisure in Mykonos
- Mykonos
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- Delos
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Enjoy a free day to explore Mykonos at your own pace. Visit the sacred island of Delos, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, or relax on the famous Paradise and Super Paradise beaches. Embrace the island's vibrant energy and stunning natural beauty.
Day 19 – Day 19: Return to Athens
- Mykonos
- Kallithea
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After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning in Mykonos before transferring to the port for your ferry back to Athens. Arrive at the Port of Piraeus late at night, ready to conclude your unforgettable journey through Greece and Turkey.
Day 20 – Day 20: Farewell to Greece
- Kallithea - Departure day
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As your multi-day tour comes to an end, enjoy a final breakfast in Athens. Reflect on the wonderful memories and experiences you've gathered throughout your journey. Depart with a heart full of stories and a camera full of photos, ready to share your adventures with the world.
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