Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands

Intrepid Travel · 15 days
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands
15 Days
From AUD $7160
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (4 reviews)

Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands

Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands

Intrepid Travel · 15 days
4.6
4 Reviews
View Map
Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Journey through ancient ruins and Greek Ottoman villages on this 15-day island adventure from Turkey to Greece. Visit ANZAC Cove in Canakkale, join your local leader on a walking tour of Istanbul and learn about the archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands like Delos.

Highlights

  • Learn about ancient history and hear stories on guided tours of well-preserved ruins like Ephesus, Gallipoli and Ancient Thira.
  • Taste local fruit wines in one of the best-preserved Greek Ottoman villages in the country and get to know the friendly locals with a home-made lunch at a local family home in Cappadocia.
  • Unwind on the sandy shores of Mykonos Island and enjoy free time exploring its boutique culture, local beaches and bustling nightlife.
  • Explore Syros – known for its whitewashed houses, sandy beaches and neoclassical mansions. Take a walking tour of the main town, Ermoupolis and indulge in a seafood dinner served in traditional tavernas.
  • Walk along the volcanic rim of the island from Thira to Oia and take in the panoramic views over the white villages that cling to the cliffs.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Private Bus,Public Bus,Overnight Train,Plane,Ferry

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Istanbul, Greece

Finishes

Santorini, Greece

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Istanbul
Hos geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in Istanbul – the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have all once called home – with a welcome meeting at 1 pm. After you’ve met your local leader and group, you’ll head out for a guided tour of the Old City. Visit the ancient hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar and the Suleymaniye Cami. This evening, maybe join your fellow travellers for dinner and dig into an authentic Turkish kebab.

Included Activities:

  • Istanbul - Old City Walking Tour (Half Day)

Optional Activities:

  • Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) (200 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) (2000 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Galata Tower (30 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Archaeology Museum (15 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (17 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Canakkale
After breakfast, hit the road to Canakkale – a port city on the southern shore of the Dardanelles. On the way, you’ll stop for a guided tour of Gallipoli to learn about the significant events that took place here during WWI. Your guide will take you to ANZAC Cove and major memorial sites like Brighton Beach and the ANZAC Commemorative Site. Make sure your camera is charged – the views of the Dardanelles Strait and the Gallipoli Peninsula here are gorgeous. This evening, you’ll spend the night in Canakkale with free time to grab dinner and recharge for tomorrow’s adventures.

Included Activities:

  • Gallipoli - Fully guided Gallipoli tour & visit to the Commonwealth graveyards

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Troy - Sirince - Selcuk
This morning, drive to the ancient city of Troy. Explore the ruins with your leader, snap a photo with a replica Trojan Horse and learn about how this place has confounded historians and archaeologists for centuries. Then, continue to Selcuk which sits on the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill. Head out with your leader for an orientation walk, passing Isa Bey Mosque and the imposing Byzantine citadel of the Grand Fortress. Then, drive to the nearby village of Sirince to taste locally produced fruit wines. This authentic Greek Ottoman village seems to have been overlooked by modern development and the unique architecture makes for a great photo. When you return to Selcuk, you have a free night.

Included Activities:

  • Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
  • Troy - Archaeological site visit
  • Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Ephesus/Overnight Train
This morning, take a private minivan to the ancient city of Ephesus – one of the world’s best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities. Once the capital of Roman Asia Minor, Ephesus has a fascinating history that really comes alive with a local guide to show you around. Considering their age, the ruins are in incredible shape, and it’s not difficult to imagine them in their full glory over 2000 years ago with running water, public toilets, a medical institute and Roman baths. The Great Theatre is well-preserved and regularly hosts concerts, but the Library of Celsus is the most striking. Then, have lunch and maybe watch the local ladies make gozleme. You'll have some free time this evening before transferring to Izmir to board an overnight train to Konya.

Included Activities:

  • Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
  • Selcuk - Artemis Temple Visit
  • Selcuk - Gozleme making demonstration and lunch

Optional Activities:

  • Selcuk - Basilica of St John (6 EUR)
  • Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum (10 EUR)
  • Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Overnight train (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Konya / Cappadocia
Wake up in Konya, a historic Turkish city closely linked with the whirling dervish sect of Islam developed by Rumi, a famous Sufi mystic in the 13th century. Visit the Mevlana Museum, maybe watching an optional whirling dervish dance, and stretch your legs in town before hitting the road to Cappadocia. Look out for the fairy chimneys, the hallmark of the region's otherworldly landscape, as you drive across the Anatolian plains and stop at an underground city used as a safe haven during wartimes. Arrive in the town of Urgup in the late afternoon in time for a sunset walk in the valley. Your accommodation tonight is a traditional cave hotel that overlooks the valley.

Included Activities:

  • Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
  • Konya - Mevlana Museum

Optional Activities:

  • Goreme - Whirling dervish performance (30 EUR)
  • Goreme - Turkish Night with Dinner (50 EUR)
  • Nevsehir - Whirling Dervish Tour (40 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Cappadocia
This morning, take an optional hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia at sunrise. If you don’t fancy it, you’ll still have an amazing view of the skyline dotted with balloons from the ground. Later this morning, enjoy a scenic walk through the valleys with your leader, featuring fairy chimneys, deserted rock-cut homes and cave churches. In your free time today, maybe visit the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, a monastic complex composed of churches, rectories and dwellings cut into the cliff. This evening, you’ll be warmly welcomed into a local home where you'll share a special home-cooked dinner with the family.

Included Activities:

  • Cappadocia - Valley walk
  • Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home

Optional Activities:

  • Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (200 EUR)
  • Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (230 EUR)
  • Goreme - Valley Tour (20 EUR)
  • Goreme - Open Air Museum (including entrance & transport) (min. 4 participants) (30 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Cappadocia to Istanbul
Say goodbye to Cappadocia and transfer to the airport for a flight back to Istanbul (expect to arrive between 1 pm and 4 pm). After checking in to your hotel, take an evening stroll to one of the city's trendiest neighbourhoods – a place where tool-selling tradesmen share space with cool cafes and galleries. For dinner, perhaps try a local street food favourite, balik ekmek (fish sandwich) and cleanse the palate with a baklava. Maybe check out a few bars with your group to say serefe (cheers) to your time in Turkey, or enjoy a farewell cay (Turkish tea) overlooking the Bosphorus.

Optional Activities:

  • Istanbul - Water Marbling (35 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Private Bosphorus Cruise Sunset with Soft Drinks (560 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Beyoglu Night Tasting Trail (85 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Coffee Workshop (32 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Mosaic Lamp Workshop (50 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Athens
This morning, travel to Istanbul Airport, where you'll board a flight to Athens. When you arrive, enjoy a free day at your own pace in Athens. Maybe explore the Archaeological Museum of Athens, walk through the National Gardens or visit the original Olympic Stadium. Tonight, you’ll have another welcome meeting at your hotel at 6 pm to meet your new leader and any new travellers joining you for the next part of your adventure. After, head out for dinner with the group at a local restaurant in the Psiri neighbourhood.

Optional Activities:

  • Athens - Acropolis Pass for 5 Sites (30 EUR)
  • Athens - National Archaeological Museum (15 EUR)
  • Athens - Day trip to the Saronic Islands (140 EUR)
  • Athens - Day Trip to Delphi (60 EUR)
  • Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
  • Athens - Numismatic Museum (15 EUR)
  • Athens - Twilight Athens Urban Adventure (99 EUR)
  • Athens - Acropolis Museum (30 EUR)
  • Athens - Half day trip to Cape Sounio (55 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Syros
Today travel by metro to the port of Piraeus, then catch a relaxing scenic ferry to Syros (approximately 4 hours). In the heart of the Cyclades, Syros offers a rare opportunity to see the islands as the Greeks do. One of the Aegean's most underrated islands, the island features typical whitewashed houses, farms, terraced fields and gorgeous sandy beaches. Your leader will take you on a wander through the main town of Ermoupolis, home to well preserved neoclassical mansions and 19th-century tenement blocks. Syros is also home to delicious sweets. Stop at a family run traditional loukoumi workshop where you will be shown the procedure of how these multi-coloured fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek Delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made - make sure you try some of them. You'll have plenty of time to explore tomorrow, so perhaps kick up your feet at a waterfront cafe and watch the setting sun turn the houses pink.

Included Activities:

  • Syros - Loukoumia Workshop Visit

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Syros
Take a walk through the fortress-like town of Ano Syros, which offers great views of the Aegean Sea. Wander the narrow alleyways, pass handmade-souvenir shops and keep an ear open for traditional Rembetiko music floating out of the family-run tavernas. Enjoy free time to further explore Syros at your own pace. Discover abandoned windmills, ancient ruins and charming villages on a network of stone-paved tracks that crisscross the island. Perhaps head to the various archaeological sites on the island, or you might prefer to simply hole up on a beach for the afternoon. Outside of Ermoupolis are many small tranquil coves, while the most popular beaches are on the southern side of the island. While some are sandy and others pebbly, all boast crystal clear waters for swimming in. In the evening, take taxis to a taverna to a remotely located village in the rugged northern part of the island to sample delicious local specialities during an included meal, all while watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea.

Included Activities:

  • Syros - Ano Syros Walk
  • Syros - Dinner at remotely located village

Optional Activities:

  • Syros - Archaeological Sites & Ruins (5 EUR)
  • Syros - Industrial Museum of Syros (2 EUR)
  • Syros - Historical tour of Ermoupolis Textile Heritage Museum (20 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Mykonos
Today board a two-hour ferry to Mykonos, a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. Known in ancient Greek mythology as the battlefield where Zeus fought the Gigantes, today the island is best known for its decadence, style, and nightlife. Join your leader for a walk through the maze-like old town and be captivated by the quintessential Greek Isles vista of squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Browse the chic galleries and boutiques, follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants to secluded, sandy beaches, and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the water. Settle into your lovely room at the hotel. As the sun sets, maybe join Europe's party crowd at one of the many bars and clubs on Mykonos, or take a more traditional approach with a meal at a delightful backstreet restaurant.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Delos / Mykonos
This morning you will take a half-day trip out to the nearby island of Delos. One of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands, a sacred area that was once the political and religious centre of the Aegean, Delos is considered to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. A living museum, the wealthy built mansions in the town that developed around Apollo’s sanctuary, decorating them with luxurious frescoes, mosaics and statues. The island is overflowing with archaeological finds like the Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Precinct, with many more still being uncovered. Later on today you might like to head to one of Mykonos' many beaches, which are some of the nicest in Europe. Take a short bus ride to the pumping Paradise or Super Paradise beach bars, or perhaps find a quieter spot to relax along the beautiful coastline. You could also check out the 19th-century House of Lena or the Aegean Maritime Museum in town. This evening you could make your way to the village of Ano Mera and seek out a tavern for a seafood dinner or perhaps wander down to Little Venice, where colourful balconies hang precariously over the sea.

Included Activities:

  • Delos - Day Trip to the Island of Delos
  • Delos - Archaeological Site

Optional Activities:

  • Mykonos - Aegean Maritime Museum (4 EUR)
  • Mykonos - House of Lena (2 EUR)
  • Mykonos - Trip to Village of Ano Mera (by public bus) (4 EUR)
  • Mykonos - Paradise Beach (by public bus) (4 EUR)
  • Mykonos - Super Paradise Beach (by public bus) (10 EUR)
  • Myconos - Cooking Class in Myconian house & farm (150 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Santorini
Take another ferry and arrive on the spectacular southern island of Santorini (approximately 2.5hrs hours). Renowned for its amazing natural beauty, Santorini is one of Europe's tourist hotspots, the home of the iconic image of the Greek islands – whitewashed, blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, as well as the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that gives an insight into how the people here lived before the eruption. Check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, interchangeably called Thira or Fira. If you have time while you're here, perhaps head to one of Santorini's volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos or Agios Georgios. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious food – the nutrient-filled volcanic soil makes the ingredients grown here full of flavour.

Optional Activities:

  • Santorini - Museum of Prehistoric Thira (10 EUR)
  • Santorini - Volcano & Hot Springs Half Day Trip (by boat) (25 EUR)
  • Santorini - Beer tasting at local brewery (30 EUR)
  • Santorini - Wine museum and wine tasting from (25 EUR)
  • Santorini - Archelogical site of Akrotiri (20 EUR)
  • Santorini - Sunset Cruise & Dinner (90 EUR)
  • Santorini - Semi Private Sunset Catamaran cruise & Dinner (160 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Santorini
In 1500 BC a volcanic eruption sank the center of Santorini, forming one of the most significant geological formations on the planet – the awe-inspiring caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Today make an excursion along the crater rim, starting in Thira town and walking through little villages all the way to Oia, passing steep cliff faces and experiencing breathtaking views along the way. If you have time, you might also like to take a half-day trip to the island's volcano and hot springs in the centre of the lagoon. Or perhaps visit one of the island’s wineries – the vines here are cultivated in a very unusual way, with the plants being pruned to form a low basket shape that sits on top of the volcanic soil to protect the grapes from strong winds. On the last evening of your adventure, rub shoulders with friendly locals in packed pubs and cafes, sipping a cocktail as you witness a magnificent Santorini sunset.

Included Activities:

  • Santorini - Caldera Rim Hike to Oia

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
15
Day 15: Santorini
Today your Greek Islands adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. You might want to extend your stay to see all Santorini has to offer. We are happy to book additional accommodation, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • 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 willdo 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. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

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.
AUD $7,160
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Journey through ancient ruins and Greek Ottoman villages on this 15-day island adventure from Turkey to Greece. Visit ANZAC Cove in Canakkale, join your local leader on a walking tour of Istanbul and learn about the archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands like Delos.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 27 Mar 2027

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
5.0
Michael
Traveled, June 2024

06/25/2024

My trips with intrepid have been exceptional the guides were attentive knowledgeable nothing was too much trouble met some great people and the overall experience was great I would recommend intrepid to anyone who's looking for a great experience

4.5
Suzanne
Traveled, October 2022

11/05/2022

This trip was a delight!! Our local guides were smart, kind and patient and knew all the best places to eat. Loved the fast paced energy of the Turkey activities followed by a more leisurely exploration of the Greek Islands. So many special experiences—we were surprised and amazed at every turn!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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