Day 1: Athens
Welcome to your tour with Europamundo! Transfer you to the hotel and free time. You will receive information in the afternoon, either directly or through the information board located at the hotel reception.
Day 2: Athens - Kamena Vourla - Kalambaka
We’ll depart early in the morning towards northern Greece, stopping at Kamena Vourla, a charming seaside tourist hub surrounded by stunning landscapes. We´ll then proceed north, stopping at the Thermopylae Mountain Pass, the historic site of the famous battle. Next, we´ll visit Kastraki, a picturesque village with beautiful views of the entire valley, where you´ll have free time for lunch. Afterward, we´ll explore the Meteora, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to one of its renowned monasteries is included. Dinner will be provided in Kalabaka.
Half board dinner includes: Buffet
Day 3: Kalambaka - Delphi - Patras
We depart from Kalambaka and travel south through the region of Thessaly. Scenic landscapes lead us to DELPHI, one of the most important sanctuaries of ancient Greece, considered in antiquity to be the center of the Hellenic world. Admission in included to the archaeological site, located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus with majestic views over the Gulf of Corinth. You will have time for lunch. We then continue to PATRAS, Greece´s third-largest city and a major port on the Gulf of Patras. Its medieval fortress overlooks the city, while its cathedral, dedicated to Saint Andrew, is the largest church in Greece and a major Orthodox pilgrimage site. Dinner included.
Half board dinner includes: ..
Day 4: Patras - Olympia - Mycenae - Nafplio
After breakfast, we continue our journey toward OLYMPIA (admission and guided tour with a local guide included). We will explore the archaeological site where the first Olympic Games took place in 776 BC, featuring athletes from all over Greece and its colonies. Temple of Zeus, the stadium, the gymnasium, and the palaestra, stand out.We then head to MYCENAE (admission included), a colossal 18th-century BC citadel and the birthplace of Europe´s first civilization. You will have time for lunch and to explore the site. Afterwad, we continue to NAFPLIO, a charming coastal town dominated by its citadel and Venetian fortress; free time for a stroll. Dinner included.
Day 5: Nafplio - Epidaurus - Poros - Acrocorinth - Athens
After breakfast, we will travel through the Peloponnese scenery to EPIDAURUS (admission included), an extraordinary theater and one of the greatest masterpieces of Greek architecture. Built over 2,400 years ago, it is famous for its magnificent acoustics. We then continue to the port of Galatas, where a short ferry ride takes us to the picturesque island of POROS, known for its hillside houses, lively harbor, and Mediterranean atmosphere. Time to stroll around and enjoy lunch. Upon returning to the mainland, we will visit the imposing fortress of ACROCORINTH, which overlooks the isthmus from above. Before reaching Athens, we will make a stop at the spectacular Corinth Canal, which connects the Aegean and Ionian seas between towering rock walls. Arrival in ATHENS in the late afternoon.
Half board dinner includes: Menu: FREE BUFFET
Day 6: Athens
In the morning, we include a panoramic tour of Athens, cradle of Western civilization, visiting landmarks such as the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the Royal Palace, and the grand avenues and neoclassical buildings that mark the personality of the Greek capital. Free time. In the evening, we provide a transfer to the historical neighborhood of Plaka, one of the most charming spots in the city, where you can stroll among its lively streets, traditional stores and Greek tavernas to immerse yourself in the rich folklore and gastronomy of this country.
Day 7: Athens
Free day to explore. A day to enjoy the moment, discover new landscapes, and let every corner reveal its own story and beauty in peace.
Day 8: Athens - Istanbul
At the time informed by the guide, we will make a transfer to the airport to catch a domestic flight included in your trip. On arrival at destination we will give you another hotel transfer. Your guide will contact you at the end of the afternoon or you can consult the information in your hotel reception. Note: remember that on domestic flights, the luggage normally allowed is one suitcase of up to 20 kg in the hold. Passengers must pay for all excess luggage directly to the airline.
Day 9: Istanbul
We’ll start with a panoramic tour of the city, exploring this unique metropolis that spans two continents. Our tour includes a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque, the largest in Istanbul, as well as stops at the ancient city walls, the Golden Horn, and the bustling fishing district, along with a chance to admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia.As the afternoon draws to a close, we’ll arrange a transfer to Taksim, the city’s most vibrant commercial district. There, you´ll have time to dine at one of its many restaurants and hop on the charming old tram that runs through the area. Alternatively, you can visit the nearby Galata Tower.
Day 10: Istanbul - Ankara
We’ll begin our day with a 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 Europamundo 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 then disembark on the Asian side, in the Uskudar district, from where we’ll continue our journey to the Anatolian Peninsula, arriving in Ankara in time for dinner, which will be included.
Half board dinner includes: MENU
CENA TIPO BUFFET
Day 11: Ankara - Cappadocia
After breakfast, we’ll begin our day with 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. We’ll continue our journey to Cappadocia, making a stop at the Salt Lake for lunch, taking in its its breathtaking landscapes. We’ll also visit Hacibektas, a revered pilgrimage site. Please be mindful of the dress code and maintain silence during our visit, as this sanctuary houses the mausoleum of Hacibektas, a 13th-century Sufi mystic. We’ll then proceed to Nevsehir, arriving in time for dinner, which will be included.
Half board dinner includes: BUFFET
Day 12: Cappadocia
We’ll spend the entire day exploring the incredible region of Cappadocia, famous for its lunar-like landscapes, ancient churches, and troglodyte villages. Our adventure will begin in the Göreme Valley, where we’ll visit the open-air museum and marvel at the rock-cut churches (tickets included). Next, we’ll visit Uchisar, home to a natural fortress, followed by a visit to Kaymacli, an underground city that could once house up to 30,000 people. On our way back to Avanos, we’ll stop at Pasabag, also known as the Fairy Chimneys, where we’ll take a walk in this breathtaking natural area. You’ll have some free time before we wrap up the day. Dinner will be included.
Half board dinner includes: Buffet.
Day 13: Cappadocia - Ihlara - Konya
At the far edge of Cappadocia, we’ll visit the Ihlara Valley, famous for its cool waters and its rock-cut churches and villages. Our itinerary includes visits to a 13th-century caravanserai and the Mevlana Mausoleum (Rumi) in Konya, where we’ll learn about the Dervish order. Dinner will be included. In the evening, we recommend attending a dervish dance performance at the cultural center.
Half board dinner includes: Buffet
Day 14: Konya - Egridir - Pamukkale
We’ll journey along a scenic route between the lakes, arriving at Egridir, a charming town by a large lake, known for its historic walls and mosques. You’ll have time to enjoy lunch here. Next, we’ll continue to Hierapolis-Pamukkale, where the mineral-rich waters have formed the stunning Cotton Palace (tickets included). Dinner will be included.
Half board dinner includes: Buffet
Day 15: Pamukkale - Ephesus - Kusadasi
We’ll make our way to Ephesus, the best-preserved ancient city in Asia Minor, which was home to a quarter million people 2,000 years ago. We’ll explore the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John, and the impressive Ephesus ancient city ruins (admission included). Next, we’ll head to Kusadasi, a bustling coastal town known for its lively atmosphere, thriving shops, and small castle. Dinner will be included.Note: 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.
Half board dinner includes: BUFFET
Day 16: Kusadasi - Bodrum - Marmaris
We’ll make our way to Ephesus, the best-preserved ancient city in Asia Minor, which was home to a quarter million people 2,000 years ago. We’ll explore the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John, and the impressive Ephesus ancient city ruins (admission included). Next, we’ll head to Kusadasi, a bustling coastal town known for its lively atmosphere, thriving shops, and small castle. Dinner will be included.Note: 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.
Half board dinner includes: Menú: buffet
Day 17: Marmaris - Rhodes
We’ll set off towards Greece early in the morning and board the express ferry to Rhodes. The journey will last about an hour. We’ll undergo standard border-crossing procedures. Once in Rhodes, we’ll embark on a tour of its remarkable walled city and historic quarter, which reflect a rich tapestry of cultural influences—from Greek and Roman to Byzantine, Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore at your leisure.Please note: The ferry schedule between Rhodes and Marmaris is subject to frequent changes and does not operate daily (except during summer months). Accordingly, this part of the itinerary may need to be adjusted.
Day 18: Rhodes - Heraklion
Today, we’ll depart from Rhodes city for an excursion to explore the rest of the island (included). Our first stop will be Filerimos, situated atop a hill, where you can visit its monastery amidst stunning landscapes. From there, we’ll continue to Lindos to explore its fortress and Acropolis, offering breathtaking views of the sea. You can stroll through its charming, whitewashed streets, relax on one of its beaches, or even opt for a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis. After lunch, we’ll return to Rhodes city, and you’ll have some free time in the afternoon. In the evening, we’ll provide a transfer to the airport for a flight to the island of Crete. Later, we’ll transfer to the hotel in Heraklion.Note: 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.
Day 19: Heraklion
In the morning, we’ll journey along the coast towards the west of the island. Rethymno, a picturesque coastal city of Venetian origin, known for its medieval castle, will be our first stop. Then, we’ll continue to Chania, a 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. We’ll return to Heraklion at the end of the day.
Day 20: Heraklion
Today, we’ll embark on an excursion to the Palace of Knossos, where we´ll delve into the Minoan culture that laid the foundation for Greek civilization four thousand years ago (admission and guided tour included). After our visit, we’ll travel through the island´s tall mountains and journey southward to the shores of the Libyan Sea, arriving at Agia Galini—a picturesque town with winding streets, a charming fishing port, and crowded taverns. You’ll have time for lunch and, if you wish, a swim in the sea. We´ll return to the capital of Crete at day’s end.Note: 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.
Day 21: Heraklion
We’ll travel along the coast towards the east of the island. Our first stop will be in the small town of Kritsa to visit Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church renowned for its exquisite frescoes (admission included). Afterward, we’ll arrive at Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town with a natural port. You’ll have time to stroll and enjoy lunch. Next, we’ll continue to Elounda, a former city-state turned into a beautiful tourist enclave. Here, we’ll embark on a boat ride to Spinalonga Island to visit the Fortress of Spinalonga, an ancient Venetian fortress later used as a leper colony for many years. After the visit, we’ll return by boat and head back to Heraklion for accommodation.
Day 22: Heraklion - Santorini - Athens
Early in the morning, we’ll transfer to the port and board a high-speed ferry to Santorini, arriving between 09:00 and 10:00 a.m. From there, we’ll journey by bus through stunning landscapes to Oia, undoubtedly the most spectacular town on the island: vibrant white streets, beautiful cliff views, remnants of a castle, and windmills. You’ll have time for lunch and a leisurely stroll. Later, we’ll visit Fira, the island’s capital. Those interested can descend to the port by cable car or donkey and admire the cruise ships. Afterwards, we’ll proceed to the port to board a high-speed ferry departing around 03:15 p.m. Arrival in Athens expected around midnight.Important Note: From November to mid-April, the high-speed ferry service from Heraklion to Santorini is suspended. During these months, we will travel from Heraklion to Athens by plane instead.
Day 23: Athens
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
