Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul

G Adventures · 14 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul
14 Days
From AUD $5099 Was AUD $5999
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating

Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul

Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul

G Adventures · 14 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Two weeks, two incredible countries, and a journey through history, culture, and cuisine — this 14-day adventure from Greece to Turkey has it all.

Includes

Activities

  • Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage, Athens Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class Athens, Athens Your Foodie Moment: Cultural Walk and Tavern Visits with Meze Plates, Vólos
  • Athens orientation walk
  • Guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon
  • Acropolis and Parthenon entrance fees
  • Visit the site of Thermopylae Information Centre
  • Guided tour of Ancient Delphi
  • Visit the Corinth Canal
  • Visit Thermopylae Battleground Site and Information Centre
  • Volos Orientation Walk
  • Full-day village-hopping tour from Vilos
  • Hike to centaur cave from Milies, Visit a women's coop in Vizitsa
  • Visit Pinakates, Agios Georgios and beach time at Kato Gatzea
  • Walk in Mount Olympus National Park
  • Polycentric Museum of Aigai
  • Thessaloniki Orientation Walk
  • Walking exploration of Kavala's old town
  • Alexandroupoli orientation walk
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotels (13 nts).
  • 13 breakfasts, 1 dinner

Transport

  • Taxi, private bus, train, walking

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Highlights

  • Step back in time at the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon
  • Walk the legendary Thermopylae battlefield—the origin of the movie 300
  • Master Mediterranean flavours with a hands-on cooking class in Athens
  • Sink your toes into the golden sands of the beach at Kato Gatzea
Classic Mainland Greece:  Athens to Istanbul

Trip Details

Duration

14 days

Transportation

Taxi, private bus, train, walking

Guide Language

English

Starts

Athens, Greece

Finishes

Istanbul, Turkey

Accommodations

Budget

Travel Style

Classic

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Athens

Arrive at any time.
We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.

There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.


Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Parnon Hotel Athens
2

Day 2: Athens

Enjoy a free morning to immerse yourself deeper into this historical city; opt to visit the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. In the evening start with a refreshment stop at a local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home and explore the city on a guided walking tour to the Parthenon and Acropolis along the way. Afterwards attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy a drink while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.Activity - Join this brief yet captivating walking tour that seamlessly connects your Acropolis exploration to the vibrant heart of Athens. As you walk through the historic streets, you'll pass by key landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods, offering a glimpse of both ancient and modern Athens. Along the way learn about the city's rich history, from its iconic monuments to its bustling squares, before continuing your journey toward Shedia.Activity - Discover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.Activity - Go on a culinary journey in Athens with a local chef. Learn how to make authentic Greek mezze (sharing dishes) such as dolmades (rice-stuffed vine leaves), imam baildi (stuffed eggplants), and spanakopita (spinach pies). You'll also create a carrot tzatziki — a twist on the classic yoghurt dip — to accompany the dishes and finish off the class with the sweet treat of portokalopita (orange phyllo cake). Sit down with your fellow "chefs" to indulge in your delicious creations for dinner and toast with a shot of ouzo.Accommodation - Parnon Hotel Athens
3

Day 3: Athens/Meteora

Travel north from Athens by bus and train to Kalampaka, the perfect base for visiting the monasteries and the area of Meteora.
Perched on high cliffs there are monasteries built on immense natural pillars and make for a once-in-a-lifetime sight.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.Accommodation - Hotel Kosta Famissi
4

Day 4: Meteora

Spend a full free day in the area. Head out and visit the mountain top monasteries on your own by bus or pre-book the Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour to do it on foot with a local guide.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Explore the Meteora area with free time today and if you're feeling adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and explore the local trails and monasteries on foot.Accommodation - Hotel Kosta Famissi
5

Day 5: Meteora/Delphi

After breakfast, transfer to the site of Thermopylae and Information Centre to learn of the famous battle that helped create the Greece we know today. Continue on to Delphi for an orientation walk before touring Ancient Delphi with a local guide. Spend the evening as you wish with free time.
Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi.

Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.Activity - Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.Activity - Enjoy a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a free evening in the ancient city of Delphi.Activity - Visit the ancient city of Delphi, at the base of Mount Parnassos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient buildings like treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, hippodrome and the Temple of Apollo. Accommodation - Hotel Acropole Delphi
6

Day 6: Delphi/Náfplio

Travel Nafplio with a stop at the Corinth Canal on the way. Take part in a brief orientation walk then spend the evening exploring the cobblestone streets with free time. Opt to climb the Acronafplia to take in the views.
Described as one of Greece's prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.Activity - Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Free_time - Lose yourself in the narrow pedestrian streets of the old town and explore the many sights, sounds, and smells it has to offer.Accommodation - Park Hotel Nafplio
7

Day 7: Náfplio/Athens

Enjoy free time to explore Napflio and the surrounding areas. Choose to visit Epidavros, as well as the nearby site of Mycenae then transfer in the late afternoon to Athens for the night.
There is a wealth of ancient sites to explore within easy reach of Nafplio on a free day such as Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. Or choose to visit the famous Mycenae, also close by, with its spectacular treasury and ruins, or for another lesser-known Mycenean site visit Tiryns, just in the suburbs of Nafplio itself.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Head out and explore the city or nearby landmarks.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Parnon Hotel Athens
8

Day 8: Athens/Vólos

Depart Athens in the morning for the drive to Volos, with a quick stop in Thermopylae on the way for a short visit. Once in Volos, set off on an orientation walk with your CEO, followed by some free time to settle into the hotel and relax. In the evening, meet up with a local guide and head out on a cultural walk to see some of the city's highlights, stopping at 2 different local taverns along the way for small plates of food called 'meze,' truly a local and delicious experience that will serve as a light dinner.
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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, and ATMs, as well as point out some local sites.Activity - Set out on a walk with a local guide, learning of archaeology, mythology, and gastronomy as you sample local drinks and delicious plates of 'meze'. Witness the city's highlights and immerse yourself in Volos' unique culture.Accommodation - Magnes Hotel Volos
9

Day 9: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore Milies, a well preserved village known for its stone mansions, cobblestones, and railway. Head out on foot for a short 1-hour hike to visit the Centaur Cave where Chiron lived. Visit the church and take some time to shop for local wares.Activity - Visit Vizitsa, known for the agricultural co-op owned and run by local women. Opt to sample local goods and enjoy coffee and snacks.Activity - Explore the village square; take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.Activity - Sit back and relax with free time at the beach. Enjoy the golden sand and clear water, or explore the quaint village, home of local tavernas serving truly authentic Greek cuisine.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Magnes Hotel Volos
10

Day 10: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Arrive at the Prioni Refuge and visitor centre for free time over lunch, then take part in a short walk with your CEO through the forest around Mt Olympus, the summit is said to house the mythical Gods. Explore the vast wilderness and several different ecosystems.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the Vergina Royal Tombs. Vergina was the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia and houses the Royal Tomb of King Phillip, father of Alexander the Great. Tour the tombs and museum and witness the stunning treasure found here.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets and ATMs.and show you some of the main sites.Accommodation - Queen Olga Hotel
11

Day 11: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.Accommodation - Queen Olga Hotel
12

Day 12: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Free_time - There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.Accommodation - Nefeli Hotel Kavala
13

Day 13: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Wander the old town area with your CEO and learn about the two communities intermingling in their daily lives.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Centrum Istanbul
14

Day 14: Istanbul

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $5999

AUD $5,099
(Tour only)
Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Standard
15% Off

Duration: 14 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Two weeks, two incredible countries, and a journey through history, culture, and cuisine — this 14-day adventure from Greece to Turkey has it all.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Jul 2026

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990