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17 days, Istanbul to Athens
Your holiday at a glance
Seventeen days across Turkey and Greece. You sleep 2 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Ankara, 2 nights in Cappadocia, 1 night in Konya and 6 more stops. The route also calls at Ihlara, Egridir, Ephesus, Bodrum and Santorini. 10 UNESCO listed sights sit on the itinerary, among them Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque).
Travel is by coach with an English speaking guide, and hotels and breakfast are included, along with your arrival transfer.
The experience
Pick a day. See where you go, what you do and where you stay.
We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. You will receive information about the start of your tour in the afternoon, either directly or through the information board located at the reception of the hotel.
The schedules provided in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust them to enhance the trip experience.
We’ll start the day with a panoramic tour of this impressive city, a “bridge” between Europe and Asia, both geographically and culturally.
Our tour includes a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque (the largest in Istanbul), and we’ll see the city walls, the Golden Horn, and the bustling fishing district, along with a chance to admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia. The afternoon is free for you to explore this city that spans two continents.
As the afternoon draws to a close, we´ll arrange a transfer to Taksim, the city´s most vibrant commercial district.
Here, you´ll have time to dine at one of the many restaurants. You can also enjoy a ride on the old tram that traverses the area or visit the nearby Galata Tower. We´ll return to the hotel around 10:00 p.m.
After breakfast, we’ll visit to Topkapi Palace, the former administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, famous for its stunning courtyards and pavilions (admission included).
Afterward, we’ll embark on a boat trip on the Bosphorus (tickets included), lasting about two hours on a private boat exclusively for the operator travelers. This journey will take us through the strait that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, dividing Istanbul between its European and Asian sides. We’ll enjoy the lively activity of the strait with its many boats. We’ll pass under the two bridges that link Europe and Asia and admire the Sultan’s palaces, traditional wooden houses, and Ottoman architecture.
We’ll disembark in the Uskudar district on the Asian side of Istanbul, and continue our journey toward the Anatolian Peninsula.
Ankara. Dinner will be included.
After breakfast, we’ll include a tour of Ankara, the cosmopolitan capital of Turkey, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant cultural scene.
The city boasts the State Opera and Ballet, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra, and numerous national theater companies. We’ll visit the impressive Mausoleum of Ataturk, the ancient Ankara Castle, which dates to the 8th century B.C. We’ll also include admission to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, offering insight into the various cultures that have left their mark on Turkey. By late morning, we’ll stop at a large shopping mall where you can choose from a variety of dining options at the food court.
Departure from Ankara. We’ll travel through the arid regions of central Turkey on our way to Cappadocia, with a stop at Salt Lake, where you will have time for lunch and to photograph this beautiful area.
Arrival in Hacibektas, a key destination for religious tourism in Turkey.
We’ll visit the mausoleum of Haci Bektas, a 13th-century Sufi mystic from Anatolia who emphasized humanism in his teachings. The sanctuary’s architecture and interior design beautifully reflect the rituals and symbols of Bektashism.
Departure from Hacibektas.
Arrival in Nevsehir/Avanos. Dinner will be included.
Dramatic lunar landscapes and stunning views of the Salt Lake.
We’ll visit the mausoleum of Hacibektas, an intriguing pilgrimage site that few tourists get to see. Please wear appropriate clothing and show respect during the visit.
Departure from Avanos/Nevsehir.
We’ll head to the Göreme Valley, where admission is included to visit the incredible open-air museum, which features over 30 rock-cut churches, some adorned with stunning frescoes. Next, we’ll visit Uchisar and take a stroll through this Cappadocian village, where you can marvel at the 60-meter rock filled with cave dwellings. From there, we’ll continue to Kaymacli to explore its impressive underground city, with tunnels and catacombs built to shelter up to thirty thousand people. We’ll break for lunch afterward. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Pasabag, also known as the Fairy Chimneys, and wander through this spectacular natural site. We’ll also visit a traditional jewelry workshop featuring stones native to the Cappadocia region, such as Onyx and Turquoise, including pieces once favored by the sultans during the Ottoman Empire.
Return to the hotel. In the summer months, you can relax by the pool or take a stroll through the pleasant commercial town of Avanos/Nevsehir. Dinner will be included.
Spectacular landscapes and charming villages.
Comfortable footwear is recommended for today’s visits. The guide may adjust the schedule to help you experience each site when it´s less crowded. Start your day with an optional early morning hot air balloon ride over the Cappadocia region—a breathtaking experience offered at dawn.
Departure from Nevsehir. We’ll travel along scenic, less-traveled roads, venturing into areas that aren’t as crowded with tourists.
Ihlara canyon. We’ll enjoy the cooler air by the river as we explore churches carved into the canyon’s rocky walls.
Departure from Ihlara canyon.
Arrival at Sultanhan. Here, we’ll visit one of the most beautiful caravanserais, a magnificent structure that recalls the great camel caravans that once traveled these lands. You’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch.
Departure from Sultanhan. We’ll pass lands with large herds and arid plains.
Konya.
We’ll visit the Mevlana Mausoleum, a sacred place for the Dervish order, a Sufi fraternity known for its whirling "trance" dances. Afterward, you might want to take a stroll through the lively bazaar. Dinner will be included. In the evening, we recommend attending a dervish dance performance at the cultural center.
We’ll continue through the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, followed by arid and flat regions.
Comfortable shoes are a must today as we continue exploring Cappadocia. In Konya, we’ll visit sites that are considered sacred by the Dervish order, so please wear appropriate clothing.
Departure from Konya. We’ll continue our journey through the heart of Turkey.
Egridir. You’ll have time for lunch and a stroll in this charming town, nestled by a lake of the same name, with ancient walls and mosques.
Departure from Egridir.
Pamukkale.
Admission included. At the "cotton mountain," our coach will drop you off at the summit, where you can explore Roman-era ruins before descending on foot through the natural hot springs and baths. The sunset colors are truly spectacular. Our coach will pick you up at the base. Later, you’ll have time to relax in the hotel’s thermal pools. Dinner included.
A mix of mountain landscapes and serene lakes, with a breathtaking view of the "cotton mountain" at the end of the day.
We recommend bringing shoes that are easy to take off and carry for walking in Pamukkale. If you’d like, pack a swimsuit to enjoy the thermal waters.
Departure from Pamukkale.
Ephesus.
We’ll explore an incredible complex of Roman ruins. Two thousand years ago, this city was home to a quarter of a million people. Our guided tour will include the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John, and the impressive Ephesus ancient city ruins (admission included). Free time for lunch after.
Departure from Ephesus. We’ll continue toward the Aegean coast.
Kusadasi.
Arrival in this lively coastal town, bustling with shops and a vibrant nightlife. We’ll visit a leather goods gallery to learn about the region’s renowned lambskin garments. You’ll have free time to explore the bazaars and visit the castle. Dinner will be included.
Varied, with coastal views as we approach the end of the day.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for the Ephesus visit.
During high season, from May through October, accommodations will be provided in Aydin instead of Kusadasi. In this case, after exploring Ephesus, we’ll make a stop in Kusadasi (4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.), where we’ll include a panoramic tour of the city before continuing on to Aydin.
Departure from Kusadasi.
Lake Bafa. We’ll stop to take in its stunning natural beauty, rich history, mystical charm, and serene atmosphere. This is undoubtedly one of Turkey´s must-see natural wonders.
Departure from Bafa Lake.
Bodrum. Free time in this beautiful, fortified city of Greek origin. You can explore its impressive castle, wander through its lively streets bustling with tourists, or visit its marina. We’ll have some time for lunch.
Departure from Bodrum.
Marmaris. Arrival to another beautiful coastal tourist enclave, with its castle, pier and fountains. Dinner and accommodation.
Various beautiful sights over the Aegean Sea.
On some occasions, especially during the summer, our accommodation will be in the nearby town of Mugla instead of Marmaris.
Departure from the hotel to the ferry port. Border procedures.
Departure on the fast ferry. The trip will last approximately one hour. Please note that the schedule may be subject to changes as per the above note.
Rhodes.
Border procedures to enter Greece. We’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of the remarkable walled city of Rhodes and its historic quarter, which reflects a rich tapestry of cultural influences—from Greek and Roman to Byzantine, Knights of Malta, Ottoman, and Italian. The guided tour will last approximately two hours with a local guide. Following the tour, we’ll transfer you to the hotel. Free afternoon. We recommend enjoying the beaches or exploring this beautiful city at your leisure.
Departure from Rhodes city. Today, we’ll embark on an excursion to explore the rest of the island (included).
Filerimos. We’ll explore its small monastery, set amidst stunning landscapes atop a hill.
Departure from Filerimos.
Lindos.
We’ll arrive in this historic city boasting a medieval fortress and a Greek Acropolis overlooking the sea. We´ll take you by coach to St. Paul’s Bay, where tradition holds that the apostle arrived by sea in 51 A.D. to spread Christianity. This picturesque setting was also featured in the film "The Guns of Navarone." You can stroll through its charming, whitewashed streets, relax on one of its beaches, or opt for a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis.
Departure from Lindos and return to Rhodes. Transfer to the airport according to flight schedule. Direct flight or flight with a stopover in Athens to the island of Crete. Arrival in Heraklion and transfer to the hotel.
Mediterranean landscapes and picturesque views over the sea.
Direct flight schedules between Rhodes and Crete are limited and subject to change; sometimes the flight may occur on Friday morning or include a stopover in Athens.
Departure from Heraklion. Our route will follow the coastline, offering stunning sea views.
Rethymno. Arrival in this beautiful coastal city of Venetian origin characterized by its medieval castle. You’ll have time to stroll through its historic center and enjoy lunch.
Departure from Rethymno.
Chania.
Arrival in this captivating city boasting an impressive fortress and stately mansions. Throughout its history, Chania has been contested among Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks. Our guide will highlight the most beautiful points of interest, and you’ll have free time to explore the city.
Departure from Chania and return to Heraklion.
Beautiful Mediterranean landscapes with views of mountains and the sea.
145 km.
Departure from Heraklion.
Knossos. Our visit includes a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos, offering insights into the Minoan culture that gave rise to Greek civilization four thousand years ago.
Departure from Knossos. We’ll travel through the island´s tall mountains, heading south towards the Libyan Sea.
Agia Galini, a picturesque town with labyrinthine alleys, a charming fishing port, and bustling taverns. Enjoy free time to explore, have lunch, and perhaps take a swim in the sea.
Departure from Agia Galini. Return journey to the capital of Crete.
Heraklion. We recommend strolling through its lively historic center, brimming with activity and small restaurants.
From November to April, due to the end of the summer season and business closures, we´ll visit the picturesque town of Matala instead of Agia Galini. Matala is renowned for its beautiful beach and unique landscapes of cliffs with carved caves.
Departure from Heraklion. We’ll journey to the east of the island, passing through coastal and mountainous landscapes.
Panagia Kera. Located in a small village amidst a rich agricultural plain, we’ll visit the 13th-century church renowned for some of the best frescoes in Crete (admission included).
Departure from Panagia Kera.
Arrival in Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town with a natural port. You´ll have time for a walk and lunch.
Departure from Agios Nikolaos.
Arrival in Elounda, once a city-state and now a beautiful tourist enclave.
Enjoy some leisure time for a stroll. Here, we’ll include a boat trip (either from Elounda or nearby port of Plaka) and admission to the Fortress of Spinalonga. This ancient Venetian fortress later served as a leprosarium for many years. The boat trip takes about 15 minutes each way, with time to explore the fortress before returning by boat. Afterwards, we´ll visit the picturesque coastal town of Plaka for coffee and a stroll.
Departure from Plaka.
Heraklion.
The schedules and frequencies of the ferries for this day’s program will vary depending on the time of year. Sometimes, the journey from Santorini to Athens may be by plane. Early in the morning, we´ll transfer to the port. Our ferry usually departs around 07:00 or 08:00 a.m. We travel on modern, high-speed ferries, so we should reach the island of Santorini in less than two hours. Arrival in Santorini is scheduled for 08:50 a.m. (if the ferry leaves at 07:00) or 09:50 a.m. (if it leaves at 08:00). From there, we´ll travel by bus through breathtaking landscapes to Oia, unquestionably the most spectacular town on the island: lively white streets, breathtaking views of cliffs, remnants of a castle, and windmills. You´ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch. Next, we´ll visit Fira, the island´s capital. Those interested can descend to the port either by cable car or by donkey and admire the cruise ships. Later, we´ll proceed to the ferry port to board another high-speed ferry departing around 03:30 p.m. We should arrive in Athens just before midnight.
From November to mid-April, we won’t visit Santorini due to the suspension of the high-speed ferry service from Heraklion. During this period, we’ll travel from Heraklion to Athens by plane.
Athens, city tour and evening transfer.
We´ll embark on a city tour guided by a local expert, covering prominent sites such as the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the National Library, and the bustling squares of the city center. We´ll also explore the newer neighborhoods that developed after the 2004 Olympic Games. The tour will conclude at the Acropolis (admission not included). In the evening, we´ll provide a transfer to the historical neighborhood of Plaka, renowned for its charming Greek tavernas and vibrant atmosphere where you can experience the rich folklore of this country.
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
Please be aware that the hotel check-out time is usually 10:00 a.m. You can leave your luggage in reception upon check-out, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. You can retrieve your luggage at your convenience later in the day. If you require additional time to use your room, we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your tour.
Timings are from the operator's itinerary and may change on the day.
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Request extra hotel nights before or after the tour. These cost extra.
On eligible routes, stay longer in a city and join a later group. Extra charges apply.
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Fly from your preferred Indian city. International flights are separate from the tour price.
These are requests for an expert to arrange, not instant changes to this tour. We will confirm availability and the revised quote.
A little more discovery
Inspiration for your free time. Only visits listed in the day-by-day plan are included in the tour.
A magnificent architectural marvel, serving as a cathedral, mosque, and museum throughout its history, showcasing incredible Byzantine and Ottoman artistry.
Free entry listed · check before visitingAn iconic Ottoman mosque famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and six minarets, a masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture.
Free entry listed · check before visitingOne of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though today only a single column and scattered ruins remain. Its sheer scale was once magnificent.
Free entry listed · check before visitingA beautifully preserved medieval street in Rhodes Old Town, lined with the 'Inns' of the different 'tongues' (nationalities) of the Knights Hospitaller. It feels like stepping back in time.
Free entry listed · check before visitingWander through the colorful, historic streets of these UNESCO-listed former Greek and Jewish quarters, known for their pastel-colored houses and bohemian vibe.
Late morning to early afternoon
Wear comfortable shoes for walking up hills and explore the antique shops and local cafes.
A small, beautifully preserved Byzantine cistern located beneath a carpet shop, offering a serene and atmospheric escape from the bustling city above.
Anytime during opening hours
Ask the carpet shop owner for access; there's usually a small entrance fee.
A charming neighborhood filled with antique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, perfect for treasure hunting and soaking in a bohemian atmosphere.
Afternoon
Allow plenty of time to browse; many shops have unique, one-of-a-kind items.
Venture outside the city to the ancient Phrygian capital of Gordion, home to the tumulus of King Midas. The small, well-curated museum displays artifacts from the site.
Spring or Autumn for pleasant weather
Rent a car or arrange a private transfer; public transport can be challenging.
The route
Numbered pins are where you sleep and match the stops above. Small dots are places the coach passes through. Lines join the stops point to point, not along the road.
Before you book
Prices, paperwork and practical questions. Find what matters to you.
The operator's hotel options. Your exact hotel is confirmed closer to departure.
Orta Mahalle, Anit Sokak, 1 Bayrampasa/Istanbul,, 34040
Turgut zal Millet Caddesi 82 F305;nd305;kzade 34093/Istanbul
Yenidogan Mahallesi Erciyes Sokak No:7 Bayrampasa 34030/Istanbul
Kemal Paşa, Çukur Çeşme Sk. No:34, 34134 Fatih/İstanbul, Turquía
From ₹3,87,566 per person for the tour itself (per person on triple, land only, excludes flights), and from ₹4,44,892 per person with flight from bengaluru, the airport transfer and travel insurance. An NxVoy consultant confirms the exact figure for your dates and rooms and sends you a quote reference.
17 days and 16 nights across Turkey, Greece, istanbul to Athens.
2 departure dates are published, 2 with seats open; the next is 12 October 2026. Seats must be confirmed before you book flights. Published availability is not a seat hold.
Your written quote will state the deposit, balance due date, payment currency, taxes and any agency charges. Review these before paying. Wait for confirmed tour seats before buying separate flights.
This tour runs in September, October. Its peak season is September, October.
Indicative amounts in US dollars from NxVoy destination research.
General services: Travel by bus with English speaking guide, basic travel insurance, hotel and breakfast buffet. Includes arrival transfer City tour in: Istanbul, Ankara, Rhodes, Athens Flights from India, visa assistance, airport transfers and separate travel insurance can be requested in your NxVoy quote. They are additional unless expressly included in the confirmed price.
Hotel check-in is usually from 2pm. An early arrival does not guarantee access to your room. Ask your consultant about an extra night and confirm where to meet the group before you travel.
Excursions marked optional are paid for separately. Ask your NxVoy consultant which ones can be arranged in advance and which are booked with your guide.
Yes. Ask NxVoy about visa assistance, fees and application timelines for your passport. Visa approval is decided by the relevant authorities and is not guaranteed.
Confirm the current requirements for your passport before booking. Visa fees and assistance are quoted separately unless explicitly included.
-Children under 3 years: free of charge (some shows may not admit children).. -From 3-8 years: 60% of the price of the tour.. -From 9-15 years: these children are eligible for a discount of 10% on the value of the tour.. One adult per child.
Cancellation charges depend on the policy assigned to your tour and when you cancel. Non-refundable services can add costs. Ask NxVoy for the policy number, deadlines and all charges in writing before paying. A cancellation request needs operator confirmation; sending a message alone does not complete it.
Talk it through with a travel expert.
Payment & cancellation
Know the total, payment dates and cancellation charges for your exact trip. Keep your written quote and booking confirmation together.
Your written quote will state the deposit, balance due date, payment currency, taxes and any agency charges. Review these before paying. Wait for confirmed tour seats before buying separate flights.
Cancellation charges depend on the policy assigned to your tour and when you cancel. Non-refundable services can add costs. Ask NxVoy for the policy number, deadlines and all charges in writing before paying. A cancellation request needs operator confirmation; sending a message alone does not complete it.
Only listed services are included. International flights, visas and optional outings usually cost extra. Check your quote for transfers and other additions.
Basic assistance cover applies during the tour. Check its limits and arrange any additional cover you need. You remain responsible for passport and entry documents.
Unused services may qualify for a future-trip credit, subject to conditions and deductions. A cash refund is not automatic.
Ask for an itemised total covering your chosen tour, room type, flights and extras, including any applicable Indian taxes, agency charges and currency-conversion terms. Confirm the exact payment dates and cancellation policy before you commit.
Your quote should distinguish Europamundo's tour conditions from any additional agency terms. If two documents differ, ask us to resolve the difference in writing before paying.
A short guide to the operator's 2026–27 conditions, checked 1 October 2026. Ask NxVoy for the full conditions with your written quote before booking.
From your door, and back again
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Tour reference 6551 · Prices are per person in the currency shown. Tour-only prices exclude flights.