20-Day Grand Tour: A Journey Through Classical Greece, Turkey & The Aegean Sea

This extensive, tailor-made itinerary is a magnificent journey that combines the ancient heart of Greece and the historic landscapes of Turkey with a breathtaking cruise through the Greek Islands. It is designed for an in-depth exploration of some of the most significant historical and cultural sites in the world, all with seamless transitions and curated experiences.

20-Day Grand Tour: A Journey Through Classical Greece, Turkey & The Aegean Sea

Outline of the itinerary

Greece Section (Days 1-6)

Day 1: Arrival in Athens
Day 2: Athens City Tour (Acropolis, Museum)
Days 3-6: Classical Mainland Tour

Turkey Section (Days 7-13)

Day 7: Flight to Istanbul
Day 8: Bosphorus Cruise & City Tour
Day 9: Istanbul Historical Sites (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, etc.)
Days 10-12: Seven Churches of Revelation Tour

Day 13: Return to Athens

Athens & Greek Islands Cruise (Days 14-20)

Days 14-15: Athens at Leisure
Days 16-20: 4-Night Greek Island Cruise

Day 20: Departure from Athens

Day 1: Arrival & Leisure in Athens

Upon your arrival in Athens, you'll make your way to your hotel to check in and settle in for a day at your leisure. The evening is free to relax and begin your Greek adventure.

Day 2: Athens City Coach Tour

A morning group tour will introduce you to the highlights of Athens. You'll take a panoramic drive to see key landmarks like the House of Parliament and the Panathenaic Stadium before visiting the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore on your own.

Day 3: The Classical Mainland Tour Begins

Your four-day coach tour of mainland Greece's most significant classical sites begins today. The journey starts with a stop at the Corinth Canal before a visit to the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. You'll explore the archaeological site and Tomb of Agamemnon in Mycenae, followed by a scenic drive to Olympia.

Day 4: Olympia & Onward to Delphi

In the morning, you'll visit the Olympia Archaeological Site and the Archaeological Museum. Afterward, you'll depart, passing by picturesque towns before arriving at Delphi.

Day 5: Delphi & The Journey to Meteora

You'll visit the Delphi Archaeological Site and the Museum. Then, you'll depart for Kalambaka, a small town nestled at the foot of the astonishing rock complex of Meteora.

Day 6: Meteora & Return to Athens

Today, you'll visit Meteora and enjoy the unique scenery of the monasteries perched on huge rocks. Afterward, you will return to Athens, with a stop at the Leonida's Monument in Thermopylae. You'll arrive in Athens in the early evening.

Day 7: Flight to Istanbul

A private transfer will take you to Athens Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, a private transfer will bring you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and settle into this magnificent city.

Day 8: Istanbul's Bosphorus & Two Continents

A full-day group tour awaits you, which includes a scenic Bosphorus cruise. After the cruise, the tour continues on land to visit the Spice Bazaar, the historic City Walls, the elegant Beylerbeyi Palace, and Camlica Hill for stunning city views.

Day 9: Istanbul Classics & Ottoman Relics

Today's full-day group walking tour covers the historic Sultanahmet area. You'll visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, the ancient Hippodrome, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace.

Day 10: Flight to Izmir & The First Churches

You'll take a morning flight from Istanbul to Izmir to begin a private three-day tour of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Your private guide will lead you to the biblical sites of Smyrna and Pergamon, where you'll visit the ruins of ancient Pergamum before settling in at your hotel.

Day 11: The Churches of Thyatira, Philadelphia & Sardes

After breakfast, you'll depart to visit the ruins of Thyatira and the church in Philadelphia. You'll then continue to the magnificent ruins of Sardes, the wealthy capital of the Lydian Empire. Your day will end in Pamukkale with a visit to the natural travertines and the ruins of Hierapolis.

Day 12: Ephesus, Laodicea & The House of Mary

Today, you'll visit the ruins of Laodicea and the magnificent ancient city of Ephesus, which represents many facets of ancient Greek and Roman culture. Finally, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where she is said to have spent her final days.

Day 13: Return to Athens

After some free time, a private transfer will take you to Izmir Airport for your flight back to Athens. Upon arrival, a private transfer will bring you to your hotel.

Day 14: Athens at Leisure

This day is entirely at your leisure to relax, shop, and explore Athens on your own, reflecting on your expansive journey.

Day 15: Athens at Leisure

Enjoy another full day at your leisure. This is a perfect opportunity to revisit a favorite spot or discover a new part of the city.

Day 16: The Greek Island Cruise Begins

A private transfer will take you from your hotel to the cruise port for a four-night Greek Island cruise. You will set sail and visit the iconic island of Mykonos in the evening.

Day 17: Kusadasi & Patmos

Your cruise arrives in Kusadasi in the morning. After exploring, you'll sail to the island of Patmos, known for its historical and religious significance.

Day 18: Rhodes

Today, the cruise arrives at the beautiful island of Rhodes. You will have the full day to explore its medieval Old Town and stunning scenery before departing in the evening.

Day 19: Crete & Santorini

The cruise arrives at the island of Crete in the morning for a half-day visit to Heraklion. Afterward, you will sail to the breathtaking volcanic island of Santorini for an evening visit, where you can witness a legendary sunset.

Day 20: Departure from Athens

Your cruise returns to Athens in the morning. A private transfer will be arranged to take you from the port to Athens Airport for your international departure.