Day 1: Arrival in Athens
Upon your afternoon arrival at Athens Airport, a private transfer will be waiting to take you directly to your hotel. After you check in, the evening is free for you to relax and begin your Greek adventure at your own pace.
Overnight in Athens
Day 2: Athens' Ancient Core & Journey to Kalambaka
After breakfast and check-out, you will begin a small-group walking tour of Athens. This experience starts at Syntagma Metro station, where you'll see ancient artifacts unearthed during its construction. The tour continues to key sites, including the Greek Parliament to watch the Changing of the Guards, the National Gardens, and Hadrian's Arch. The final destination is the Acropolis, where you will explore monumental landmarks like the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, gaining profound insights into their historical significance. The tour ends in the afternoon, and from there, a private long-distance transfer will take you on a scenic drive to your hotel in Kalambaka.
Overnight in Kalambaka
Day 3: Meteora's Monasteries & Return to Athens
Today is dedicated to the breathtaking wonder of Meteora. A private tour will take you to three of its most iconic monasteries, which are perched impossibly atop giant rock pillars. Your driver will act as your guide, sharing the fascinating history of the monks who built these sacred sites centuries ago. You will also visit several panoramic viewpoints to capture the breathtaking vistas of the unique rock formations and the surrounding valleys. In the afternoon, you will begin your private transfer back to your hotel in Athens.
Overnight in Athens
Day 4: Flight to Istanbul
Your morning begins with a private transfer from your hotel to Athens Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be met by a private transfer service that will take you to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are free for you to settle in and begin to soak in the atmosphere of this magnificent city.
Overnight in Istanbul
Day 5: Istanbul's Sultanahmet: A Private Exploration
Today, a private guide will lead you on a full-day walking tour of Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet district. This bespoke experience allows you to explore at your own pace. You will visit iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome, and the underground Yerebatan Cistern. The tour culminates with an exploration of the world-famous Grand Bazaar. Your guide will tailor the day to your interests, ensuring you have ample time at each site.
Overnight in Istanbul
Day 6: Bosphorus Cruise & City Contrasts
Your day begins with a half-day, small-group cruise on the Bosphorus, providing stunning views of the palaces, mosques, and villas that line the shores. The morning tour also includes a visit to the aromatic and colorful Spice Bazaar. After the cruise, you will meet your private guide for an afternoon tour. You will cross the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side of Istanbul to visit the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Camlica Hill.
Overnight in Istanbul
Day 7: Flight to Cappadocia & Outdoor Adventures
After a private transfer to Istanbul Airport, you will take a flight to Nevsehir, the gateway to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred privately to your unique cave hotel. In the afternoon, you will be picked up for a choice of excursions: a horseback ride or an ATV ride. Both of these activities offer a thrilling way to explore the region's stunning valleys. The evening is at your leisure.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Day 8: Hot Air Balloon Flight & Leisure Day
Your day starts before sunrise with a shuttle transfer to the hot air balloon takeoff site. You will watch the preparations before embarking on a one-hour flight over the surreal Cappadocian valley as the sun rises, an unforgettable experience. Upon landing, a shuttle will take you back to the hotel for breakfast. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore on your own. You may choose to hike through the beautiful Meskendir, Rose, and Red Valleys.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Day 9: Private Cappadocia Tour & Sunset at Lovers Hill
A private guide will meet you at your hotel for a full-day tour. You will visit the unique rock formations of Love Valley, Monks Valley, Zelve, and Devrent Valley. You will also explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum and the ancient Ürgüp and Uchisar Castles. As the tour concludes, your guide will drop you off at Lovers Hill, a perfect spot to watch the breathtaking sunset over the valley before you make your way back to the hotel.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Day 10: Free Day at Leisure
This day is entirely at your leisure. You have the freedom to explore Cappadocia on your own, whether you want to visit local shops, hike a different trail, or simply relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of your hotel. No touring services are scheduled for this day.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Day 11: Cappadocia's Hidden Depths: Underground City & Valleys
Today, your private guide will take you on a tour to discover more of Cappadocia's remarkable landscape. The tour includes a visit to the Derinkuyu Underground City, an incredible multi-level subterranean settlement. You will also see Nar Crater Lake and hike through the stunning Ihlara Valley along the river, with lunch provided. The day's itinerary also includes visits to Belisirma Village, the Selime Monastery, and Pigeon Valley.
Overnight in Cappadocia
Day 12: Departure from Cappadocia
After a private transfer from your hotel to Nevsehir Airport, you will begin your journey home. A flight will take you from Cappadocia to Istanbul, where you will then connect to your final international flight.