Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul
On sale!
£2,864 was £3369
Discount: 15%
Offer end: Mar 04 2026
Duration: 14 days
Begins: Athens
Ends: Istanbul
Trip Code: EGHI
From
£2,864 per person
or Call 01273 099433
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. Marvel at the Acropolis and Parthenon, wander the charming streets of Nafplio, and stand on the legendary battlefield of Thermopylae, the inspiration behind the movie 300. Dive into Greek flavours with a hands-on cooking class in Athens and a meze tasting in Volos before crossing into the dynamic crossroads of East and West—Istanbul. From ancient ruins to vibrant cityscapes, breathtaking scenery to unforgettable meals, this trip is packed with epic moments and new friends to share them with.
Is this tour for me?
Travel Style
Classic
All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.
Service Level
Standard
Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Physical Rating
2 - Light
Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.
Trip Type
Small Group
Age requirement
12+
All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
What's Included
- Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage, Athens
- Your Welcome Moment: 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
Allow USD500-650 for meals not included.
Full Itinerary
Departure Dates
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.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
1h
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.
Optional Activities - Day 1
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
Athens 0h30m - 1h
Most of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
Athens 1h
Take a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Ancient Agora Visit
Athens
Explore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.
Day 2 : Athens
Explore the city on a guided walking tour to the Parthenon and Acropolis with a refreshment stop at a local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home, along the way. Enjoy a free afternoon to immerse yourself deeper into this historical city; opt to visit the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. Later in the evening attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.
Athens Walking Tour
Athens 3h - 4h
Immerse yourself in Athens' streets on this guided walking tour of the Plaka neighborhood. Oozing with energy, wander the cobblestone streets lined with shops and cafes as you learn about the incredible history of Athens and of the Greek empire. Finish the walk at the the monumental Acropolis.
Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage
Athens
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.
Guided Visit of Acropolis and Parthenon
Athens 2h
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.
Cooking Class Athens
Athens
Enjoy a cooking class and dinner with a local chef who will share the secrets of Greek cuisine.
Optional Activities - Day 2
Ancient Agora Visit
Athens
Explore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.
Acropolis Museum Visit
Athens 1h - 3h
Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
Athens 0h30m - 1h
Most of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
Athens 1h
Take a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Dinner
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.
Local Bus
Athens - Meteora 5h
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Activities - Day 3
Meteora Sunset Tour
Meteora 4h
Listen to the stories and legends of Meteora from a local guide, visit one of the 6 active monasteries, the Byzantine church of Virgin Mary and enjoy great views from the most panoramic spots. The tour ends with the an awe-inspiring sunset which you will watch from a magical spot high up on the rocks of Meteora.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Free time:
Meteora Full day
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.
Optional Activities - Day 4
Guided Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour
Meteora 4h
Set off on foot with a local guide along the paths of the first monks, to visit the striking mountaintop monasteries of Meteora. First, visit the Megalou Meteorou Monastery, known for it’s dramatic location atop a towering rock formation Afterward opt to hike to Varlaam Monastery, accessible by climbing 195 steps and known for breathtaking views and richly adorned with frescoes and religious icons. Choose to finish the day with a hike to Saint Nikolai Monastery, a lesser known but equally as beautiful complex, or otherwise head back to Kalambaka.
Natural History Museum of Meteora
Meteora 1h - 2h
Located along the highway and a short distance from the city centre, the Natural History Museum of Meteora houses over 300 exhibits featuring mammals, birds and local flora and fauna.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Meteora - Thermopylae 2h 155km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Thermopylae and Information Center Visit
Thermopylae 0h45m
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.
Private Vehicle
Thermopylae - Delphi 2h15m 80km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Delphi Orientation Walk
Delphi
Enjoy a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a free evening in the ancient city of Delphi.
Ancient Delphi Tour
Delphi 3h - 3h30m
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.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Delphi - Corinth Canal 3h
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Corinth Canal Visit
Corinth Canal 0h30m
Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
Private Vehicle
Corinth Canal - Náfplio 1h30m
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Nafplio
Náfplio 0h30m - 1h
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:
Náfplio
Lose yourself in the narrow pedestrian streets of the old town and explore the many sights, sounds, and smells it has to offer.
Optional Activities - Day 6
Bourtzi Castle
Náfplio 1h
Take a short ferry ride to this Venetian landmark - a medieval castle off the coast of Nafpilo. A visit here offers visitors the chance to explore the castle's rooms, and a great views of the city on shore.
Archaeology Museum
Náfplio 1h - 2h
Located in one of Nafplio's best preserved Venetian buildings near Syntagma Square, the Archaeological Museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts from the Argolis region, including a full set of armour cast in bronze from the Mycenean era. It's certainly worth a visit!
War Museum
Náfplio 1h - 2h
Explore the history of Nafplio through the Greek Revolution, Macedonian Struggle, the Balkan Wars and succeeding conflicts at the War Museum, housed in the building of the First Academy.
Acronafplia Fortress Visit
Náfplio 2h - 3h
Climb to the top of the Akronofplia fortress tower to enjoy the phenomenal view from the top that looks back over the bay to Argos and out into the Saronic Gulf.
Palamidi Fortress Visit
Náfplio 2h
Explore the Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the late 1600s when they occupied the area for the second time. Climb the 999 stairs from the town to the fortress, or 913 depending on who you ask—either way expect to feel the burn tomorrow. The view over the Argolic Gulf and the city are worth the work to reach the top.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Free time:
Náfplio
Head out and explore the city or nearby landmarks.
Private Vehicle
Náfplio - Athens 2h30m 140km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 7
Epidavros Visit
Epídavros 1h
Visit Epidavros, highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. The site houses a huge, well-preserved theatre famous for its incredible acoustics, as well as the remains of an important medical sanctuary. Please note to partake in this optional you will need to take a taxi. The pricing listed does not include the cost of roundtrip transportation needed.
Mycenae Site Visit
Mycenae 1h - 2h
Visit the famous Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological site with spectacular ruins and a treasury. Once a major settlement of Greek civilization, Mycenae was occupied during the Neolithic period around 4000 BC, and is linked to the mythology in Homer’s epics the Iliad and the Odyssey. Please note to partake in this optional you will need to take a taxi. The pricing listed does not include the cost of roundtrip transportation needed.
Tiryns Site Visit
Náfplio 1h
Explore the lesser-known Mycenean site, hidden in the suburbs of Nafplio. Along with Mycenae, Tiryns is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site first excavated in 1831 by German archaeologists.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Athens - Thermopylae 2h30m 200km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Thermopylae and Information Center Visit
Thermopylae 0h45m
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.
Private Vehicle
Thermopylae - Vólos 1h30m 132km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Volos
Vólos 1h
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.
Cultural Walk and Tavern Visits with Meze Plates
Vólos 2h
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.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Vólos - Miliés 0h45m 27km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Milies Visit
Miliés 2h
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.
Vizitsa Visit
Vizitsa 1h30m
Visit Vizitsa, known for the agricultural co-op owned and run by local women. Opt to sample local goods and enjoy coffee and snacks.
Pinakates Visit
Pinakates 0h30m
Explore the village square; take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Kato Gatzea Visit
Káto Gatzéa 2h30m - 3h
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.
Private Vehicle
Káto Gatzéa - Vólos 0h30m 18km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Vólos - Mount Olympus 2h 142km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Mt Olympus National Park
Olympus National Park 2h
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.
Private Vehicle
Mount Olympus - Vergína 1h30m 90km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Polycentric Museum of Aigai
Vergína 1h30m
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.
Private Vehicle
Vergína - Thessaloníki 1h 71km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Thessaloniki
Thessaloníki 1h 1km
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.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Free time:
Thessaloníki Full day
There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Optional Activities - Day 11
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Thessaloníki
One of the largest museums in Greece, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is home to to artifacts from the Prehistoric, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Nea Paralia
Thessaloníki
Head down to Thessaloniki's waterfront, one of the most beautiful and internationally awarded promenades. Explore the cycle paths, sports fields, culinary outlets, and the attractive seaside.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Thessaloníki - Kavala 2h 153km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Kavala
Kavala 1h
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:
Kavala
There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Kavala - Alexandroúpoli 2h 150km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Alexandroupoli Walk
Alexandroúpoli 0h30m 1km
Wander the old town area with your CEO and learn about the two communities intermingling in their daily lives.
Private Vehicle
Alexandroúpoli - Istanbul 4h30m 300km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
Day 14 : Istanbul
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
Meals Included:
Breakfast
| dates start-End | Availability remaining spaces | Price Per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 2026 | |||
| Sun, 19 Apr - Sat, 02 May | 1 available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| May 2026 | |||
| Sun, 03 May - Sat, 16 May | Sold out | ||
| Sun, 17 May - Sat, 30 May | 4 available | £3,032 | Request a quote |
| Jun 2026 | |||
| Sun, 14 Jun - Sat, 27 Jun | 6 available | £2,864 | Request a quote |
| Jul 2026 | |||
| Sun, 12 Jul - Sat, 25 Jul | 7+ available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| Aug 2026 | |||
| Sun, 09 Aug - Sat, 22 Aug | 3 available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| Sep 2026 | |||
| Sun, 06 Sep - Sat, 19 Sep | 7+ available | £3,369 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 20 Sep - Sat, 03 Oct | 7+ available | £3,032 | Request a quote |
| Oct 2026 | |||
| Sun, 04 Oct - Sat, 17 Oct | 2 available | £2,929 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 18 Oct - Sat, 31 Oct | 7+ available | £2,929 | Request a quote |
| Nov 2026 | |||
| Sun, 01 Nov - Sat, 14 Nov | 7+ available | £2,636 | Request a quote |
| Apr 2027 | |||
| Sun, 18 Apr - Sat, 01 May | 7+ available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| May 2027 | |||
| Sun, 02 May - Sat, 15 May | 7+ available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 16 May - Sat, 29 May | 7+ available | £3,369 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 30 May - Sat, 12 Jun | 7+ available | £3,369 | Request a quote |
| Jun 2027 | |||
| Sun, 13 Jun - Sat, 26 Jun | 7+ available | £3,369 | Request a quote |
| Jul 2027 | |||
| Sun, 11 Jul - Sat, 24 Jul | 7+ available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| Aug 2027 | |||
| Sun, 08 Aug - Sat, 21 Aug | 7+ available | £3,149 | Request a quote |
| Sep 2027 | |||
| Sun, 05 Sep - Sat, 18 Sep | 7+ available | £3,369 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 19 Sep - Sat, 02 Oct | 7+ available | £3,369 | Request a quote |
| Oct 2027 | |||
| Sun, 03 Oct - Sat, 16 Oct | 7+ available | £2,929 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 17 Oct - Sat, 30 Oct | 7+ available | £2,929 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 31 Oct - Sat, 13 Nov | 7+ available | £2,929 | Request a quote |
| Nov 2027 | |||
| Sun, 07 Nov - Sat, 20 Nov | 7+ available | £2,929 | Request a quote |
