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From Istanbul to Athens
Operated by Globus
Tripcode: QY
Overview
Destination:
Greece,
Turk,
Duration:10 days
Type:Group tour (max 18)
Travel Period
September 2026 - October 2027
10 days from Istanbul to Athens
From Turkish treasures to Grecian delights, this tour takes you from the magical monuments and mosques of Istanbul to the mysteries and mythologies of Athens! Your tour of Turkey and Greece begins in the incredible city of Istanbul in a country of two continents. The bold beauty of sacred Byzantine architecture in Istanbul’s mosques and palaces is complemented by the warm people who welcome us to share in the traditions and tastes (think Turkish coffee and Turkish Delight!) in this gateway to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Embark on your journey to Greece through Turkey’s northwest region of Marmara. Marvel at the archaeological remnants of Kings in Philippi and Vergina. Explore Thessaloniki the cultural capital of Greece with its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. Be amazed by the floating monasteries of Meteora, and the heroic tales of Spartan battles on your way to Athens, where history comes to life as you discover the city that was at the heart of Ancient Greece.
All This. Included
Special Features Included in this Tour: • Guided sightseeing tour in Istanbul includes visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar; plus, a complimentary [LF] traditional Turkish coffee experience• Visit to Alexandroupoli• Visit to Xanthi• Scenic drive through the Marmara region• Guided walk through the archaeological excavations in Philippi• Guided sightseeing in Thessaloniki includes a visit to the Basilica of Saint Demetrious.• Visit to the Royal Tombs Museum in Vergina • Guided visit to the monasteries of Varlaam and St Stephen’s in Meteora• Visit to the site of the Battle of Thermopylae• Guided sightseeing in Athens includes an orientation drive to see the main landmarks, plus a visit to the Acropolis
From Turkish treasures to Grecian delights, this tour takes you from the magical monuments and mosques of Istanbul to the mysteries and mythologies of Athens! Your tour of Turkey and Greece begins in the incredible city of Istanbul in a country of two continents. The bold beauty of sacred Byzantine architecture in Istanbul’s mosques and palaces is complemented by the warm people who welcome us to share in the traditions and tastes (think Turkish coffee and Turkish Delight!) in this gateway to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Embark on your journey to Greece through Turkey’s northwest region of Marmara. Marvel at the archaeological remnants of Kings in Philippi and Vergina. Explore Thessaloniki the cultural capital of Greece with its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. Be amazed by the floating monasteries of Meteora, and the heroic tales of Spartan battles on your way to Athens, where history comes to life as you discover the city that was at the heart of Ancient Greece.
All This. Included
Special Features Included in this Tour: • Guided sightseeing tour in Istanbul includes visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar; plus, a complimentary [LF] traditional Turkish coffee experience• Visit to Alexandroupoli• Visit to Xanthi• Scenic drive through the Marmara region• Guided walk through the archaeological excavations in Philippi• Guided sightseeing in Thessaloniki includes a visit to the Basilica of Saint Demetrious.• Visit to the Royal Tombs Museum in Vergina • Guided visit to the monasteries of Varlaam and St Stephen’s in Meteora• Visit to the site of the Battle of Thermopylae• Guided sightseeing in Athens includes an orientation drive to see the main landmarks, plus a visit to the Acropolis
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
- 9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
Itinerary
Expand all 
Collapse all
Collapse allARRIVE IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Welcome to Istanbul!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
ISTANBUL
East meets West
Discover Istanbul with a captivating, guided sightseeing tour. Visit the Roman Hippodrome and hear about the events held there, marvel at the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and the intricate decoration and blue hues of its interior, stand below the breathtaking dome of the Hagia Sophia, visit Topkapi Palace to see how the Sultan’s lived, and discover a shopper’s paradise at the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, spread over 60 streets and location of over 4000 shops! Enjoy [LF] a traditional Turkish coffee experience at an historical coffee roaster. This evening, make the most of some free time to explore more. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITIONS Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago and finally called Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between Orient and Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent yet exciting history.
Discover Istanbul with a captivating, guided sightseeing tour. Visit the Roman Hippodrome and hear about the events held there, marvel at the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and the intricate decoration and blue hues of its interior, stand below the breathtaking dome of the Hagia Sophia, visit Topkapi Palace to see how the Sultan’s lived, and discover a shopper’s paradise at the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, spread over 60 streets and location of over 4000 shops! Enjoy [LF] a traditional Turkish coffee experience at an historical coffee roaster. This evening, make the most of some free time to explore more. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITIONS Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago and finally called Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between Orient and Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent yet exciting history.
ISTANBUL–ALEXANDROUPOLI, GREECE
Crossroads of the Ancient World
Today, depart Istanbul and take a scenic drive through the Marmaris region. Cross the border into Greece and continue to the city of Alexandroupoli for an orientation drive that includes views of the lighthouse and other landmarks. (B,D) 193 mi / 310 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC NAMES. Founded in the 19th century as a fishing village, Alexandroupoli was originally known as Dedeagach. Stories state that this name was given to the town in the honor of an Old Turkish wise man who spent a lot of his time sat in the shade of a tree and was eventually buried there. The city was renamed after King Alexander I of Greece when he visited in 1920.
Today, depart Istanbul and take a scenic drive through the Marmaris region. Cross the border into Greece and continue to the city of Alexandroupoli for an orientation drive that includes views of the lighthouse and other landmarks. (B,D) 193 mi / 310 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC NAMES. Founded in the 19th century as a fishing village, Alexandroupoli was originally known as Dedeagach. Stories state that this name was given to the town in the honor of an Old Turkish wise man who spent a lot of his time sat in the shade of a tree and was eventually buried there. The city was renamed after King Alexander I of Greece when he visited in 1920.
ALEXANDRUOPOLI–XANTHI–PHILIPPI–THESSALONIKI
Picture Perfect
This morning, make a leisurely stop in Xanthi, a charming city with a multi-cultural identity. Stroll the cobblestone streets and snap some photos of the “city of a thousand colors.” Continue to Philippi, once an important city of the Roman Empire, and enjoy a guided walking tour of the archaeological excavations. Reach Thessaloniki and enjoy some free time to start getting acquainted with the coastal city. (B,D) 208 mi / 335 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTPRIME LOCATION Thanks to its location, the ancient city of Philippi has had an important role to play. Originally founded due to its vicinity to the Mount Paggaio gold mines it became the location of King Philip II of Macedonia’s Royal Mint. Its importance continued to grow as it became an administrative center of the Roman Empire for its location on the Via Egnatia, the road connecting Rome to the East. Remnants of its importance can be seen during your guided visit to its archaeological site.
This morning, make a leisurely stop in Xanthi, a charming city with a multi-cultural identity. Stroll the cobblestone streets and snap some photos of the “city of a thousand colors.” Continue to Philippi, once an important city of the Roman Empire, and enjoy a guided walking tour of the archaeological excavations. Reach Thessaloniki and enjoy some free time to start getting acquainted with the coastal city. (B,D) 208 mi / 335 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTPRIME LOCATION Thanks to its location, the ancient city of Philippi has had an important role to play. Originally founded due to its vicinity to the Mount Paggaio gold mines it became the location of King Philip II of Macedonia’s Royal Mint. Its importance continued to grow as it became an administrative center of the Roman Empire for its location on the Via Egnatia, the road connecting Rome to the East. Remnants of its importance can be seen during your guided visit to its archaeological site.
THESSALONIKI
Cultural Capital of Greece
A whole day to discover the wonderful city of Thessaloniki. This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour covering the main monuments and including a visit to the Basilica of Saint Demetrious. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. A UNESCO “City of Gastronomy,” Thessaloniki offers plenty of opportunities to sample local delicacies. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Greece’s second city has so much to offer that it is often nominated the cultural capital of Greece. The remnants of fascinating Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history are clear to see. During your guided sightseeing see the iconic 15th-century prison tower, standing 34-meters, pass Aristotelous Square, the Jewel of Thessaloniki on the sea front and visit the UNESCO listed Basilica of Saint Demetrius. Also famed for its gastronomic offerings there is plenty of chance to dine on delicious Greek specialties whilst strolling along the lively streets.
A whole day to discover the wonderful city of Thessaloniki. This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour covering the main monuments and including a visit to the Basilica of Saint Demetrious. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. A UNESCO “City of Gastronomy,” Thessaloniki offers plenty of opportunities to sample local delicacies. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Greece’s second city has so much to offer that it is often nominated the cultural capital of Greece. The remnants of fascinating Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history are clear to see. During your guided sightseeing see the iconic 15th-century prison tower, standing 34-meters, pass Aristotelous Square, the Jewel of Thessaloniki on the sea front and visit the UNESCO listed Basilica of Saint Demetrius. Also famed for its gastronomic offerings there is plenty of chance to dine on delicious Greek specialties whilst strolling along the lively streets.
THESSALONIKI–VERGINA–KALAMBAKA
Unspoiled Treasures
A real treat is in store when you stop in Vergina to visit the Royal Tombs Museum. Located under the tumulus you will see the incredible unspoiled marble tomb of King Philipp II with all of its gold and silver treasures. Later today, reach Kalambaka, a small town in the heart of Greece, at the feet of Meteora. (B,D)149mi / 240 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTFAMILY FOUNDATIONS Philipp II was the King of Macedonia, he is credited as a great diplomat who also possessed military prowess, increasing the number of soldiers in his army, whilst also improving their training and equipment. Bringing peace to his country and ruling much of Greece, he paved the way for his son, Alexander the Great, who, after Philipp’s assassination would go on to build one of the largest empires in the ancient world.
A real treat is in store when you stop in Vergina to visit the Royal Tombs Museum. Located under the tumulus you will see the incredible unspoiled marble tomb of King Philipp II with all of its gold and silver treasures. Later today, reach Kalambaka, a small town in the heart of Greece, at the feet of Meteora. (B,D)149mi / 240 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTFAMILY FOUNDATIONS Philipp II was the King of Macedonia, he is credited as a great diplomat who also possessed military prowess, increasing the number of soldiers in his army, whilst also improving their training and equipment. Bringing peace to his country and ruling much of Greece, he paved the way for his son, Alexander the Great, who, after Philipp’s assassination would go on to build one of the largest empires in the ancient world.
KALAMBAKA. EXCURSION TO METEORA
Monasteries in Magical Greece
Get ready for a wonderful experience with an excursion into Meteora, which can be translated as “suspended in the air.” Prepare to be inspired by the breathtaking views afforded by this UNESCO-listed area. Enjoy a fascinating guided visit to the Monastery of St. Stephen and the Holy Monastery of Varlaam, perched atop the vertical rock formations. Later, enjoy an evening at leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSACRED SITES Perched atop soaring huge cliffs are the monasteries of Meteora, of which six are still active. Visit the beautiful monasteries of Varlaam and St. Stephen’s to marvel at this serenely mystical landscape with breathtaking views from above. Long revered for the perfect monastic retreat from the world outside, Meteora’s spectacular array of massive sandstone cliffs creates a surreal setting unlike any other.
Get ready for a wonderful experience with an excursion into Meteora, which can be translated as “suspended in the air.” Prepare to be inspired by the breathtaking views afforded by this UNESCO-listed area. Enjoy a fascinating guided visit to the Monastery of St. Stephen and the Holy Monastery of Varlaam, perched atop the vertical rock formations. Later, enjoy an evening at leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSACRED SITES Perched atop soaring huge cliffs are the monasteries of Meteora, of which six are still active. Visit the beautiful monasteries of Varlaam and St. Stephen’s to marvel at this serenely mystical landscape with breathtaking views from above. Long revered for the perfect monastic retreat from the world outside, Meteora’s spectacular array of massive sandstone cliffs creates a surreal setting unlike any other.
KALAMBAKA–THERMOPYLAE–ATHENS
Bravery in Battle
This morning, sit back and relax for a scenic drive. Stop at Thermopylae, learn about the famous battle and see the statue of the Spartan King, Leonidas. Continue to Athens and enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening exploring. (B)217 mi / 350 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTLEGENDARY LIVES The story of the Battle of Thermopylae is hard to beat for drama. You may recognize this tale of the heroic, yet doomed Spartans of 480 BC fighting against the Persian army, which is dramatized in the film “300.” Their brave battle endures as a valiant symbol of bravery and sacrifice for a patriotic cause.
This morning, sit back and relax for a scenic drive. Stop at Thermopylae, learn about the famous battle and see the statue of the Spartan King, Leonidas. Continue to Athens and enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening exploring. (B)217 mi / 350 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTLEGENDARY LIVES The story of the Battle of Thermopylae is hard to beat for drama. You may recognize this tale of the heroic, yet doomed Spartans of 480 BC fighting against the Persian army, which is dramatized in the film “300.” Their brave battle endures as a valiant symbol of bravery and sacrifice for a patriotic cause.
ATHENS
Marvels & Myths
This morning, guided sightseeing features an orientation drive to see Athen’s main landmarks, including Syntagma Square, the Temple of Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium, plus a visit to the iconic Acropolis. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore more before joining your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Explore the heart of Ancient Greece, in the historic empire where 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, never fail to amaze! See the Panathenaic Stadium, one of the venues of the first modern Olympic Games.
This morning, guided sightseeing features an orientation drive to see Athen’s main landmarks, including Syntagma Square, the Temple of Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium, plus a visit to the iconic Acropolis. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore more before joining your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Explore the heart of Ancient Greece, in the historic empire where 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, never fail to amaze! See the Panathenaic Stadium, one of the venues of the first modern Olympic Games.
ATHENS
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Dates
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Operator
Globus
At Globus, we’re not just hooked on travel as a destination, but on the way travel makes you feel. Our promise is to craft adventures you’ll want to re-live forever. Our story began more than 90 years ago, when a young Swiss Antonio Mantegazza began transporting tourists across Lake Lugano on his rowboat, sharing stories and revealing local secrets along the way. On that lake, Globus was born. Discovering a passion for tourism and a knack for business, Antonio’s services expanded beyond river transport to bus touring, from Switzerland to Europe and then, the world. After 90 years curating travel wonderment, our passion for curating the perfect trip remains. At Globus, we have the experience and local knowledge to craft immersive adventures that make you feel alive. Expect to see all the major sites, but then go deeper, to the beating heart of every new discovery. As they say, when you’re in the moment, it’s not what you know, but who you know, and you’ll quickly discover our Tour Directors know all the local secrets and insider tips. Let us connect you with a new world of people, places and experiences that will ignite your imagination. It's time to tour with Globus.
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