There is magic in every step in Greece and Turkey. You smell the aroma of spices at the spice markets of exotic Istanbul and see it in the daring cliff-side settlements of Santorini. You hear it in the call to prayer echoing from the Blue Mosque, you taste it in Greece’s famous Mediterranean cuisine, you feel it everywhere you turn. This is a place where the past comes alive, where the majesty of nature collides with the might of civilization, and where every day brings something new and unforgettable.
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Istanbul – Arriving in Transfixing Turkey
You land today on the outskirts of one of the great cities of world history, the stirring metropolis of Istanbul, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire founded by the legendary Constantine the Great. A private driver will pick you up from the airport and will deliver you to your centrally located, elegant and comfortable hotel, where you’ll enjoy all the best modern conveniences and gorgeous accommodations. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy, walking the hurried streets and taking in the sites and the monuments to the glories of this incredible city: you can marvel in the majestic edifices that line the street or take a quick visit at one of the many hamams, or Turkish baths, that can be found throughout Istanbul.
What's Included:
Day 2
Istanbul – The Highlights of One of History’s Greatest Cities
Day 3
Istanbul – Cruising the Divide Between Europe and Asia
Day 4
Cappadocia – Into Captivating Cappadocia
Day 5
Cappadocia – Discovering the Ancient Settlements of Turkey
Day 6
Athens – On to Athens
Day 7
Crete – Visiting the Parthenon, Then Turning to the Birthplace of Zeus
Day 8
Crete – Around the Charming Venetian Port Town of Chania
Day 9
Crete – The Myths and Stories of the Ancient Minoans
Day 10
Santorini – The Quintessential Greek Island Experience
Day 11
Santorini – Exploring Sensational Santorini and Its Villages of Fire Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia
Day 12
Santorini – An Active Volcano and a Dip in the Hot Springs
Day 13
Santorini – Returning Home
Trip Highlights
- Discover all of the incredible edifices and inimitable history of Istanbul, from the triumphant Hagia Sophia to the impressive Topkapi Palace to the remains of the Hippodrome of Constantinople
- See the marvels of Istanbul from the water as you set sail and cruise the famous Bosphorus Strait, the narrow strip of blue that has separated Europe and Asia for millennia
- Visit the ancient cities and stirring natural sights of Cappadocia, from the plunging underground village of Kaymakli to the towering rock castle in Uchisar
- See all of exciting Athens, from the arresting structures that line Syntagma Square in the city’s modern portion to the towering Acropolis that dominates the city’s skyline
- Experience island hopping in true style as you make your to two of Greece’s best-known and best-loved islands, from the history and legend that lingers everywhere on the island of Crete to the serene and subdued luxuries and relaxation that can be found on sumptuous Santorini
Detailed Description
From the Aegean Sea to the Golden Horn, from the glories of classical Athens to the stories that fill Istanbul, Turkey and Greece are two of the greatest nations in world history, home to some of the past’s greatest figures, from poets to statesmen. This thirteen-day voyage will show you all the best of this fascinating region, filled with delicious food and incredible sights that are sure to captivate, and locals that are sure to warm your heart. From the sunrise over the Bosphorus to a sunset on Santorini, this is a trip where every day is memorable.
Walk the streets of incomparable Istanbul, a world capital for more than two millennia and home to some of the planet’s best-known landmarks, from the stunning Hagia Sophia to the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the largest markets in the world. Explore the remnants of Constantinople as you cruise the Bosphorus, the strait that marks the end of Europe and the beginning of Asia, before turning to astounding Athens, the birthplace of people and ideas that have shaped the entire Western World. Explore the amazing history and culture at Crete – the mythical birthplace of the King of the Gods – before ending your tour in fine fashion on the romantic and awe-inspiring island of Santorini, known the world round for its charming white-washed houses and spectacular sunsets.
From the immense geological wonders of Cappadocia to the liveliness of an Athenian evening, from the shores of the Cyclades to the Straits of the Dardanelles, the wonders of Greece and Turkey are unlike anything else in the world. You’ll marvel at the incredible architecture and be dazzled by endless natural beauty; you’ll ogle at the famous sites and be awed by the hidden gems that are often overlooked. No matter what your pleasure, you’re sure to find it here, in the historic heart of civilization.
Starting Price
$5,400 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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