The Best of Greece & Turkey: Istanbul, Athens & Santorini Upgrade
Ancient treasures and dazzling displays
Go on an adventure through historic cities and take in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world! Fly into Istanbul to begin the journey. After soaking up the culture of this stunning city, head for Greece to experience two of its treasures: Athens and Santorini. Enjoy added tours with this upgrade!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Istanbul (IST), out of Athens (ATH)
- 3 nights in Istanbul at the Kent Hotel, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Istanbul (IST) to Athens (ATH)
- All airport, ferry port, and hotel transfers while in Greece
- 2 nights in Athens at the Athens Avenue Hotel or similar
- Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini*
- 3 nights in Santorini at Suites of the Gods or similar
- High-speed ferry from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)*
- 1 night in Athens at the Polis Grand Hotel, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Plus!
- Full-day private tour of Istanbul
- Half-day morning tour with Bosphorus Cruise
Please note: The high-speed ferry only operates April through October. November through March travel, the ferry will be Bluestar, not high-speed (approximately a 2-hour difference).
Great Ways to Explore
-
Arrive in Istanbul and become enamored with the bustling city. From Hippodrome Square to the Underground Cistern, you'll see it all!
- Enjoy the convenience of transfers and accommodations, as well as time to explore on your own.
-
When in Istanbul, indulge in Turkish coffee, hand-crafted souvenirs, and lively markets to your heart's content!
-
From Turkey, fly to Athens and discover the birthplace of modern Western civilization.
-
Catch a ferry to Santorini, Greece's most romantic island! Stroll the village of Oia as you admire the deep blue Aegean Sea.
Land in Turkey and begin your adventure! Say hello to Istanbul's Old City and get to explorin'! See the Blue Mosque and Basilica of Saint Sophia, feasting on kebabs and manti, a small handmade dumpling with mincemeat, along the way!
From Istanbul, fly to Greece's ancient yet modern capital of Athens. Consider treating yourself to a tour of the Acropolis site and the Acropolis Museum and get a crash course on Classical Greece. Discover the compact city on your own, whether it's the narrow passageways of Plaka or the lively Monastiraki Square.
End your vacation in mesmerizing Santorini, the jewel of the Greek islands. Enjoy two full days of sightseeing on your own. Don't miss the enchanting village of Oia and the Red Beach on the southern part of the island. Return to Athens for one night before flying home!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Istanbul (IST), out of Athens (ATH)
- 3 nights in Istanbul at the Kent Hotel, or similar
- One-way economy class flight from Istanbul (IST) to Athens (ATH)
- All airport, ferry port, and hotel transfers while in Greece
- 2 nights in Athens at the Athens Avenue Hotel or similar
- Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Santorini*
- 3 nights in Santorini at Suites of the Gods or similar
- High-speed ferry from Santorini to Athens (Piraeus)*
- 1 night in Athens at the Polis Grand Hotel, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Plus!
- Full-day private tour of Istanbul
- Half-day morning tour with Bosphorus Cruise
Please note: The high-speed ferry only operates April through October. November through March travel, the ferry will be Bluestar, not high-speed (approximately a 2-hour difference).
-
Arrive in Istanbul and become enamored with the bustling city. From Hippodrome Square to the Underground Cistern, you'll see it all!
- Enjoy the convenience of transfers and accommodations, as well as time to explore on your own.
-
When in Istanbul, indulge in Turkish coffee, hand-crafted souvenirs, and lively markets to your heart's content!
-
From Turkey, fly to Athens and discover the birthplace of modern Western civilization.
-
Catch a ferry to Santorini, Greece's most romantic island! Stroll the village of Oia as you admire the deep blue Aegean Sea.
Land in Turkey and begin your adventure! Say hello to Istanbul's Old City and get to explorin'! See the Blue Mosque and Basilica of Saint Sophia, feasting on kebabs and manti, a small handmade dumpling with mincemeat, along the way!
From Istanbul, fly to Greece's ancient yet modern capital of Athens. Consider treating yourself to a tour of the Acropolis site and the Acropolis Museum and get a crash course on Classical Greece. Discover the compact city on your own, whether it's the narrow passageways of Plaka or the lively Monastiraki Square.
End your vacation in mesmerizing Santorini, the jewel of the Greek islands. Enjoy two full days of sightseeing on your own. Don't miss the enchanting village of Oia and the Red Beach on the southern part of the island. Return to Athens for one night before flying home!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Istanbul!
Your Turkey and Greece vacation begins! Arrive at the airport, then enjoy a private transfer to your hotel via luxury minivan. Once you settle in, relax at the hotel until it's time for a brief orientation on the city.
Transfer from airport to city center hotel
Place yourself in the middle of the action with a stay at Kent Hotel Istanbul! Located mere footsteps from public transportation and only a quick jaunt from Taksim Square, this hotel is sure to please. Set out on foot to take in the atmosphere of the area as you make the 15-minute walk to Grand Bazaar, or continue for 5 more minutes to reach Egyptian bazaar. After a full day of exploring, return to your comfortable guestroom for a good night's sleep.
Nestled in the heart of Istanbul’s celebrated Old City in a historic building that illuminates the beauty of Ottoman architecture, the Wyndham Istanbul Old City hotel offers travelers an unparalleled experience within walking distance of many of Istanbul's major sites. Walk to legendary spots like the Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Museum, while incredible shopping centers like Taksim Square, Nisantasi and Osmanbey are located a mere five kilometres away.
Day 2. Istanbul
Meet your private guide in
the lobby at 9:00 am and begin your full-day tour on foot. After a thorough
introduction to the city and tons of sightseeing, you will return to your hotel
and rest up for your next exciting day of adventure!
Full-day private tour of Istanbul
Start your exploration with a stroll through the famed Hippodrome Square which was once the sporting and social center of Constantinople that hosted the chariot races until the Middle Ages. The Roman Hippodrome of the glorious past displays today the famous the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column dating back to 5th century BC. You will continue touring with a stop at the magnificent home of the Ottoman Sultans; Topkapi Palace! Located on the very cape of the peninsula where Constantinople was founded, Topkapi Palace was built as the center of administration of the Ottoman Empire when the city was conquered by Ottoman Turks in 1453 AD.
Afterward, you will reach the inner courtyard to visit the Treasury that displays exclusive examples of jewelry and accessories which were dressed by the Sultans or were given as gifts to ambassadors. Next, carry on to the Basilica of Saint Sophia, one of the largest Christian shrines ever built in history. The more you listen to the in-depth lectures of your private guide today, the more you will comprehend the priorities the administrators of Constantinople had to execute to ensure that the city continues its existence in safety against external threats.
As a city that was defended by its “inaccessible” fortifications, Constantinople needed to have endless water supplies to enable its inhabitants to resist sieges. To serve this purpose, a large number of underground water reservoirs were built through various neighborhoods of the city such as the Underground Cistern known by the locals as the Sunken Cistern. The impressive structure built in the 6th century with 336 columns erected upwards underneath the streets running through the Old City to constitute ample space to store water, is now operating as a venue for cultural activities besides attracting visitors as a unique museum.
Later in the afternoon, you will find yourself drifting through one of the earliest shopping malls ever built in history, Grand Bazaar which maintains its charm and volume of business to the modern day with its indoor and outdoor sections. Today, Nuru Osmaniye District is where you can find the most reputable stores with wide collections of jewelry, antiques and oriental rugs. Breathe in the vivacious atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar with a sip of Turkish coffee while perusing the exciting variety of handcrafted souvenirs.
Day 3. Istanbul
The morning will greet
you with a delicious breakfast, then a 9:00 am pick-up for your half-day tour,
including a cruise on the mighty Bosphorus! After the tour is completed, spend
the rest of the day at your leisure.
Half day morning tour with Bosphorus Cruise
After breakfast, board a local ferry for an unforgettable cruise on the waters of the Bosphorus. During the cruise, your guide will share the legends and myths of the Bosphorus and its impressive mansions and palaces. In addition to the scenery of the historical edifices, you will be overwhelmed by the skyline of Istanbul ornamented with domes and minarets of Byzantine and Ottoman cultures.
At the end of your cruise, continue your exploration in the bustling atmosphere of the Spice Market. Though it dates back to the 17th century, it is still the most popular bazaar to shop for the fresh ingredients that spice up dishes prepared in the kitchens of Istanbul.
Follow the enchanting smells though the market to mingle with the locals and be greeted by eager merchants competing to show you their eye-dazzling displays. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Day 4. Istanbul - Athens
Transfer back to the airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arriving in Greece, you will be transferred to your hotel in downtown Athens. Settle in, then begin exploring this city of fascinating capital!
Visit Syntagma Square, The National Library, and Parliament to get a feel for the city, then enjoy your first Greek meal at a taverna near your hotel.
Athens Avenue Hotel wraps you in understated luxury and elegant aesthetics. With seamless access to the city, you'll be able to enjoy everything from sightseeing to relaxing at the property without worrying about complicated transit. The hotel's amenities are manifold and include services to make your stay as relaxing as possible. The eco-friendly hotel boasts modern architecture and abundant sunlight. Located in Athens, you will be very close to popular landmarks such as the Parthenon, the Acropolis, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and more!
The Polis Grand Hotel is a fine 4-star hotel in the heart of the historical and commercial center of Athens. Since 1974, this Greece hotel has been combining modern high-standard services with the tradition of genuine hospitality.
The central location offers easy access to the public transportation means, the Eleftherios Venizelos international airport and the Piraeus and Rafina ports, the major exposition centers, public services and organizations, the most important tourist attractions of Athens and more.
Day 5. Athens
Stroll through the charming neighborhood of Plaka, Athens' oldest district. Pick up a souvenir or two then enjoy an alfresco meal under a mulberry tree.
Day 6. Athens - Santorini
In the morning, transfer to Piraeus port outside of Athens city center and board a high-speed ferry to Santorini (approximate ferry time is 6 hours). Enjoy a relaxing ride across the deep blue Aegean Sea until you reach your destination.
Upon arrival at Santorini port, transfer to your hotel and settle in.
Transfer to Athens port
Ferry to Santorini!
Transfer to Santorini hotel
Retreat to the Suites of the Gods, where you can surround yourself in otherworldly opulence, spectacular views, and beautiful beaches. Relax in guestroom that are equipped to meet all of your needs with design in step with the island's traditional style and architecture merged with modern convenience. Slip away to the 100 year old Cave Spa, which used to be a winery, to indulge in exclusive spa therapies designed to be a feast for the body and mind. Then, step into the Celebrities Restaurant to take in panoramic views of the Caldera while you sample the high gastronomy of the hotel's Mediterranean Greek cuisine.
Located in scenic Firostefani Village, Splendour Resort is just the perfect amount of traditional, modern and luxurious. Wake up to the Aegean Sea from your air-conditioned room with a private balcony, flat-screen satellite TV, mini fridge and free toiletries. Enjoy fresh juices, cocktails and light meals at the pool bar, and fuel up for your adventures with a daily buffet breakfast served by the pool. The lively town of Fira is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel and offers many dining and entertainment options.
Escape to this relaxing retreat that marries luxury to tranquility. Santorini Palace is the very first resort in Santorini, only a few meters away from the cliff of the Caldera and boasts panoramic views of the volcano. The hotel combines beautiful Cycladic architecture, open spaces, diverse resort facilities, and convenience to interesting sites.
Work all your stresses away in the fully equipped fitness center, take a refreshing swim in the massive outdoor pool, lounge in the warm sun, or pamper yourself and recharge at the Lotus Spa. Sit poolside and order a cold drink from the fully stocked poolside bar. When it's time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine at the elegant on-site restaurant. Take a stroll along the Caldera's promenade or dance your way through Fira and experience its vibrant nightlife.
Become immersed the fragrant gardens and palm trees that surrounded this elegant 4-star hotel. Perfectly positioned right in the heart of Santorini's capital, Fira, the Daedalus hotel is within walking distance of the main bustling town and the mesmerizing Caldera. As you step inside the lobby, feel welcomed by a friendly reception team and admire the decor that blends traditional Greek style with contemporary trends.
Settle into your spacious room, sprawl out on your comfortable bed, and use the hotel's WiFi to send photos to friends and family. Unpack your swimsuit, slip on your sandals, and head out to the sparkling pool. Take a refreshing swim, or lounge in the warm sun with a cold drink in-hand. Why not unwind in the sauna or pamper yourself with a hydro-massage? Come on, you're on vacation.
A peaceful and centrally located hotel in Kamari village, the Rosebay Hotel is a just a minute's walk from the black sands of Kamari beach. Restaurants, bars and shops are within a 3-minute walking distance, while Fira is a 10 minute-drive and Oia is 20 minutes away. You can get to both by taxi or public bus. Staying at the Rosebay is a relaxing experience, from the spacious, airy rooms to the lovely outdoor pool. Savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine at the restaurant and a drink at the pool bar.
Walk along the halls of your hotel among the clouds, looking out over the sparkling Aegean Sea at the Rocabella Santorini. Featuring an outdoor pool and a fitness center, the resort and spa offers full four-star opulence. Enjoy the sun terrace, drinks at the bar, a 24-hour front desk, concierge services, a gift shop, a spa, hot tubs, and an on-site restaurant.
Rooms are chic and feature flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, coffee or tea making facilities, a safe, a minibar, ironing facilities, hypo-allergenic bedding upon request, and private bathrooms complete with complimentary toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer upon request. Just 2 miles away from Fira, 3 miles from Oia, and 4 miles from Thira Airport, the Rocabella Santorini is in an excellent location for accessibility and scenery.
Day 7. Santorini
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel then explore at your leisure! Officially known as Thira, Santorini is shaped like the letter "C" and surrounds a caldera, once the site of an active volcano. Known for its whitewashed buildings and incredible sunsets, Santorini enchants all who visit.
Day 8. Santorini
Wake up early and explore Santorini's picture-perfect village of Oia on the north part of the island. The most photographed place in Greece delights visitors with its narrow streets, blue domed churches, and sun-bathed verandas.
If a beach vista is what you're after, Perissa or Kamari are both excellent choices. The Red Beach on the south coast is particularly enchanting and a short walk from Akrotiri archaeological site will take you directly here.
Day 9. Santorini - Athens
Enjoy your last breakfast in Santorini before boarding the ferry back to Athens. Return to your hotel in Athens, then take a nice stroll through the city. A popular place for dinner is the lively Monastiraki Square, a perfect ending to your Turkey and Greece adventure!
Transfer to Santorini port
Ferry to Athens!
Transfer to Athens hotel
The Polis Grand Hotel is a fine 4-star hotel in the heart of the historical and commercial center of Athens. Since 1974, this Greece hotel has been combining modern high-standard services with the tradition of genuine hospitality.
The central location offers easy access to the public transportation means, the Eleftherios Venizelos international airport and the Piraeus and Rafina ports, the major exposition centers, public services and organizations, the most important tourist attractions of Athens and more.
Athens Avenue Hotel wraps you in understated luxury and elegant aesthetics. With seamless access to the city, you'll be able to enjoy everything from sightseeing to relaxing at the property without worrying about complicated transit. The hotel's amenities are manifold and include services to make your stay as relaxing as possible. The eco-friendly hotel boasts modern architecture and abundant sunlight. Located in Athens, you will be very close to popular landmarks such as the Parthenon, the Acropolis, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and more!
Day 10. Depart Greece
Your multi-destination adventure comes to an end today. Transfer to Athens airport for your flight home.
Transfer to Athens airport (ATH)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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