Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul
Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul
14 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Istanbul, Turkey
Visiting: Athens, Meteora, Thermopylae, Delphi, Corinth Canal, Nafplio, Náfplio, Volos, Vólos, Mount Olympus National Park, Vergina, Thessaloniki, Kavala, Alexandroupoli, Istanbul
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26484
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Greece and Turkey with the "Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul" tour. This cultural adventure begins in Athens, where you'll explore the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon, and indulge in a hands-on cooking class to master Mediterranean flavors. Walk the historic Thermopylae battlefield and visit the awe-inspiring mountain top monasteries of Meteora. Discover the ancient city of Delphi, marvel at the engineering feat of the Corinth Canal, and hike through the mythical landscapes of Mount Olympus National Park. Experience the vibrant culture of Volos with a culinary walk, and explore the charming villages of Milies and Vizitsa. Conclude your journey in the bustling city of Istanbul, having traversed a route rich in history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy seamless travel with a mix of transport options and comfortable accommodations throughout this unforgettable 13-night adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: hotel
Arrive at any time.
We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore the city on a guided walking tour to the Parthenon and Acropolis with a refreshment stop at a local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home, along the way. Enjoy a free afternoon to immerse yourself deeper into this historical city; opt to visit the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. Later in the evening attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.
ACTIVITY: Immerse yourself in Athens' streets on this guided walking tour of the Plaka neighborhood. Oozing with energy, wander the cobblestone streets lined with shops and cafes as you learn about the incredible history of Athens and of the Greek empire. Finish the walk at the the monumental Acropolis.
ACTIVITY: Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy a drink while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.
ACTIVITY: Discover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a cooking class and dinner with a local chef who will share the secrets of Greek cuisine.
Day 3: Athens/Meteora
Location: Athens, Meteora
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel north from Athens by bus and train to Kalampaka, the perfect base for visiting the monasteries and the area of Meteora.
Perched on high cliffs there are monasteries built on immense natural pillars and make for a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 4: Meteora
Location: Meteora
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend a full free day in the area. Head out and visit the mountain top monasteries on your own by bus or pre-book the Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour to do it on foot with a local guide.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Explore the Meteora area with free time today and if you're feeling adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and explore the local trails and monasteries on foot.
Day 5: Meteora/Delphi
Location: Thermopylae, Delphi
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to the site of Thermopylae and Information Centre to learn of the famous battle that helped create the Greece we know today. Continue on to Delphi for an orientation walk before touring Ancient Delphi with a local guide. Spend the evening as you wish with free time.
Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi.
Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
ACTIVITY: Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a free evening in the ancient city of Delphi.
ACTIVITY: Visit the ancient city of Delphi, at the base of Mount Parnassos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient buildings like treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, hippodrome and the Temple of Apollo.
Day 6: Delphi/Náfplio
Location: Delphi, Corinth Canal, Nafplio
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel Nafplio with a stop at the Corinth Canal on the way. Take part in a brief orientation walk then spend the evening exploring the cobblestone streets with free time. Opt to climb the Acronafplia to take in the views.
Described as one of Greece's prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
ACTIVITY: Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
FREE TIME: Lose yourself in the narrow pedestrian streets of the old town and explore the many sights, sounds, and smells it has to offer.
Day 7: Náfplio/Athens
Location: Náfplio, Athens
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy free time to explore Napflio and the surrounding areas. Choose to visit Epidavros, as well as the nearby site of Mycenae then transfer in the late afternoon to Athens for the night.
There is a wealth of ancient sites to explore within easy reach of Nafplio on a free day such as Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. Or choose to visit the famous Mycenae, also close by, with its spectacular treasury and ruins, or for another lesser-known Mycenean site visit Tiryns, just in the suburbs of Nafplio itself.
FREE TIME: Head out and explore the city or nearby landmarks.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 8: Athens/Vólos
Location: Athens, Thermopylae, Volos
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart Athens in the morning for the drive to Volos, with a quick stop in Thermopylae on the way for a short visit. Once in Volos, set off on an orientation walk with your CEO, followed by some free time to settle into the hotel and relax. In the evening, meet up with a local guide and head out on a cultural walk to see some of the city's highlights, stopping at 2 different local taverns along the way for small plates of food called 'meze,' truly a local and delicious experience that will serve as a light dinner.
Thermopylae is an ancient battlefield where Greek (mainly Spartan) soldiers held off the Persian army for three days. A battle which acted as inspiration for the movie 300.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, and ATMs, as well as point out some local sites.
ACTIVITY: Set out on a walk with a local guide, learning of archaeology, mythology, and gastronomy as you sample local drinks and delicious plates of 'meze'. Witness the city's highlights and immerse yourself in Volos' unique culture.
Day 9: Vólos
Location: Volos
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head out from Volos today on a day of exploration and cultural immersion, hopping village-to-village. Explore Milies and take a short hike to a cave, stop by a women's co-op in Vizitsa then visit the town of Pinakates and have beach time at Kato Gatzea before returning to Volos in the evening. Each stop provides a unique glance into the daily life in this beautiful corner of the world.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore Milies, a well preserved village known for its stone mansions, cobblestones, and railway. Head out on foot for a short 1-hour hike to visit the Centaur Cave where Chiron lived. Visit the church and take some time to shop for local wares.
ACTIVITY: Visit Vizitsa, known for the agricultural co-op owned and run by local women. Opt to sample local goods and enjoy coffee and snacks.
ACTIVITY: Explore the village square; take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
ACTIVITY: Sit back and relax with free time at the beach. Enjoy the golden sand and clear water, or explore the quaint village, home of local tavernas serving truly authentic Greek cuisine.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 10: Vólos/Thessaloníki
Location: Vólos, Mount Olympus National Park, Vergina, Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive north from Volos, stopping at Mount Olympus National Park for a short walk near the mountain that was home to the gods in Greek mythology. Continue to the Polycentric Museum of Aigai to tour the tombs and see the archaeological artifacts before carrying to Thessaloniki. Join your CEO for an orientation walk and enjoy a free evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Arrive at the Prioni Refuge and visitor centre for free time over lunch, then take part in a short walk with your CEO through the forest around Mt Olympus, the summit is said to house the mythical Gods. Explore the vast wilderness and several different ecosystems.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the Vergina Royal Tombs. Vergina was the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia and houses the Royal Tomb of King Phillip, father of Alexander the Great. Tour the tombs and museum and witness the stunning treasure found here.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets and ATMs.and show you some of the main sites.
Day 11: Thessaloníki
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take advantage of a free day to explore Thessaloniki. Discover historic landmarks like the Roman Forum, visit museums or take a walking food tour, sampling dishes like Greek 'meze' and other regional specialties. In the evening, head out for an optional dinner at one of your CEO's favourite local spots.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Day 12: Thessaloníki/Kavala
Location: Thessaloniki, Kavala
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wave goodbye to Thessaloniki this morning and drive to the city of Kavala. Settle in and orient yourself with a CEO-led orientation walk of the old town with the option to walk up to the castle for great views of the city and of the sea. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring or to relax.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
FREE TIME: There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Day 13: Kavala/Istanbul
Location: Kavala, Alexandroupoli, Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart Kavala in the morning and drive east to the city of Alexandropoli. Take a short walk with the CEO to explore the area and have some time for lunch before continuing on to the Turkish border and onwards to Istanbul, arriving in the evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Wander the old town area with your CEO and learn about the two communities intermingling in their daily lives.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 14: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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G for Good Moment
Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage in Athens.
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Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group.
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Foodie Moment
Cultural Walk and Tavern Visits with Meze Plates in Vólos.
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Athens Orientation Walk
Explore Athens with a guided orientation walk.
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Guided Tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon
Experience a guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon.
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Acropolis and Parthenon Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to the Acropolis and Parthenon are included.
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Visit the Site of Thermopylae Information Centre
Visit the Thermopylae Information Centre.
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Guided Tour of Ancient Delphi
Enjoy a guided tour of Ancient Delphi.
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Visit the Corinth Canal
Visit the engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal.
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Visit Thermopylae Battleground Site and Information Centre
Explore the Thermopylae Battleground Site and Information Centre.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and museum tickets are not included and should be booked in advance during high season.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as drinks, shopping, and tipping are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Meals Not Specified
Meals not specified in the itinerary are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with a mix of taxi, private bus, train, and walking, ensuring a comfortable and flexible journey between destinations and activities.
Accommodation
Enjoy 13 nights in comfortable hotels, providing a cozy and convenient base for your exploration of Greece and Turkey.
Meals Included
13 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE:
During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.
Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
About Accommodation
On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations.
Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.
What to Take
Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one piece of luggage per person. Please carefully consider your luggage size and weight when packing, and remember that laundry facilities will be available throughout the tour.
Bringing your belongings in a small or medium sized suitcase, preferably a soft bag, will allow you the flexibility to better enjoy your travels on the ground.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses a mix of taxi, private bus, train, and walking to ensure a comfortable and flexible journey between destinations and activities.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will enjoy 13 nights in comfortable hotels, providing a cozy and convenient base for your exploration of Greece and Turkey. The accommodations are typically small family-run hotels or pensions, with some traditional character and in excellent central locations.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 1 dinner. Generally, meals are not included when there is a choice of eating options to give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat.
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Is there a group leader on this tour?
Yes, the tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, and recommend great local eating venues.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16, with an average of 12 participants.
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What is the minimum age requirement for this tour?
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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What should I consider when packing for this tour?
Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one piece of luggage per person. It's recommended to bring your belongings in a small or medium-sized suitcase, preferably a soft bag, to allow flexibility during your travels.
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Are there any important notes regarding accommodation?
Please be aware that properties with only two stories may not have elevators, and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. Most accommodations do not have air conditioning, but nearly all hotels will provide a fan for your room on hot nights.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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