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Hidden Gems of the Mediterranean with Istanbul and Dubrovnik

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Operated by APT
Tripcode: EUSSRHID19
Overview
Destination:
Croatia
Turk
Duration:19 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Travel Period
August 2027 - August 2027
Istanbul → Dubrovnik

Embark on an extraordinary journey from Istanbul to Dubrovnik. Begin in Istanbul, a legendary city where iconic architecture and exquisite cuisine come together in a captivating tapestry of culture. During you cruise, step ashore to wander the charming cobbled streets of medieval towns and cities, and marvel at impeccably preserved archaeological sites that speak to the grandeur of ancient civilizations. Your voyage culminates in Dubrovnik, where you'll embark on a discovery of the magnificent UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Highlights
  • Visit the awe‑inspiring landscape of Meteora. Here, medieval monasteries appear to float above the earth, perched atop towering rock pinnacles first settled by monks seeking solitude and spiritual clarity in the 14th century. Over time, 24 monasteries were built, creating a breathtaking fusion of nature and human devotion. Climb the steps—once replaced by rope‑hoisted nets—to visit two remarkable monasteries, admiring exquisite icons, frescoes and centuries‑old manuscripts, along with sweeping views across the valley.

  • Visit the church of St. Nicholas, built in the early 1700s in the baroque style, and home to a Franciscan monastery. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival, followed by a private concert performed by a guitarist duo.

  • Immerse yourself in Anzac history with a captivating excursion to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Explore the numerous trenches and memorials that stand as a tribute to those who lost their lives in World War I. Pay your respects at Anzac Cove, the Australian Memorial at Lone Pine, and the New Zealand Memorial at Chunuk Bair.

Highlights:
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Istanbul

On arrival in Istanbul, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner at an authentic Turkish restaurant and indulge in traditional fare.

Day 2 - Istanbul

Visit the Blue Mosque, aptly named due to the colour of the tiles that surround its interior. You will also wander through the Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum and head to the underground Basilica Cistern. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Grand Bazaar, where construction first began in 1455 under Mehmed the Conqueror. Today, the bazaar is a labyrinth of covered streets lined with thousands of shops selling hand-woven carpets and kilims, gold and silver jewellery, hand-painted ceramics, and leather goods.

Day 3 - Istanbul, Embark Ship

This morning, choose from a range of sightseeing tours. Later, you will be transferred to the luxurious Seabourn Ovation. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship.

Freedom of Choice – Topkapı Palace and Spice Market

Explore the extravagant Topkapı Palace, which served as the residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. Afterwards, visit the vibrant Spice Market, one of the city’s largest bazaars.

Freedom of Choice – Bosphorus Cruise

See Istanbul’s enchanting highlights from the water on a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, a crucial sea strait which has played a major role in world trade for many centuries.

Day 4 - Çanakkale, Gallipoli Peninsula

This morning, arrive in Çanakkale and journey to the historic Gallipoli Peninsula, where you’ll experience the powerful Anzac legend up close. Explore the poignant trenches and memorials that stand as lasting tributes to those who gave their lives during the First World War. Visit the iconic Anzac Cove, the Australian Memorial at Lone Pine, and the New Zealand Memorial at Chunuk Bair, each offering a deeply moving connection to this significant chapter in history.

Day 5 - Volos, Kalambaka, Meteora

Journey across the plains of Thessaly to Kalambaka, gateway to the awe‑inspiring landscape of Meteora. Here, medieval monasteries appear to float above the earth, perched atop towering rock pinnacles first settled by monks seeking solitude and spiritual clarity in the 14th century. Over time, 24 monasteries were built, creating a breathtaking fusion of nature and human devotion. Climb the steps—once replaced by rope‑hoisted nets—to visit two remarkable monasteries, admiring exquisite icons, frescoes and centuries‑old manuscripts, along with sweeping views across the valley. Conclude your visit with lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your ship.

Day 6 - Day At Sea

Indulge in a day of relaxation and leisure as your ship gracefully sails along the stunning coastline. Take full advantage of the exceptional amenities on board, whether that means unwinding with a rejuvenating spa treatment (own expense) or enjoying a delectable meal at one of the ship’s exquisite restaurants.

Day 7 - Patmos

Today, discover Patmos, a small island with a rich history dating back to its settlement in 1088. Once deserted due to frequent pirate raids and Turkish invasions, it now offers a peaceful escape from the more bustling Greek Isles. Spend time at leisure in the charming town, soaking in panoramic views over the Bay of Patmos and the surrounding islands of the archipelago. For those seeking to explore further, optional sightseeing tours are available (own expense).

Day 8 - Rhodes, Lindos

Arrive in Rhodes, the most renowned of the Dodecanese Islands, and be captivated by the stunning architecture of the Old Town, a fascinating blend of styles that reflect the island's diverse history. Set out on an included tour to Lindos, passing picturesque villages, vineyards and olive groves. Lindos has been officially designated an Archaeological site, and its architecture includes Byzantine influences. On arrival, your guide will walk with you through the narrow cobblestone streets to the foot of the ancient Acropolis. From there, walk up to the Acropolis and be rewarded with the sight of the Doric Temple of Lindian Athena, enclosed within the walls of a Crusader-era castle. From the Acropolis, you will have an incredible view of the village, the sea and the small fishing harbor of Psarto, where legend has it St. Paul landed to bring Christianity to the region. On your return to Lindos village, you will visit the church and have some free time to explore before returning to your ship.

Day 9 - Santorini

Today your ship will dock in Santorini. Extraordinary for its black sand beaches and sheer limestone cliffs, Santorini also showcases remnants of the Phoenician, Spartan and Minoan cultures, which fell under the island's spell - an unvarying, irresistible lure that continues to this day. Fira, the picturesque, pedestrian-only capital, is reached from the seaport via a short cable car ride that offers thrilling views as you ascend. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional sightseeing tour (own expense).

Day 10 - Athens

Arrive in the timeless city of Athens, the ancient capital that’s brimming with history and culture. Embark on a captivating tour of its most iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Acropolis, the majestic Parthenon, and the charming, historic neighbourhood of Plaka. As you stroll through its narrow, cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time, walking in the footsteps of the Ancient Greeks and immersing yourself in the rich heritage of this legendary city

Day 11 - Gythion, Aeropolis

From Gythion, trace the dramatic Mani peninsula—celebrated since Homer and famed for its soaring stone tower houses. Continue to Areopolis, a remarkably picturesque town of cobbled lanes and restored cubic homes set more than 200 metres above sea level. Here, visit Milia Bakery, renowned as one of the oldest bakeries in the Peloponnese region. The bakery produces a variety of traditional baked goods including sesame bread rings, a selection of handmade pies, rusks and sweet biscuits known to locals as koulourakia. You'll enjoy a tasting of various delacies before returning to your ship. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore Gythion.

Day 12 - Day at Sea

Sail along idyllic coastlines today as your enjoy a day onboard your ship.

Day 13 - Itea, Delphi

Arrive in Itea and set off on an excursion to the sacred sight of Delphi. Explore the Sanctuary of Apollo and visit the partially reconstructed Treasury of the Athenians. You'll also visit the impressive museum, home to one of the greatest collections of archaeological treasures. Later, return to your ship in Itea and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Day 14 - Corfu

A scant few miles off the Albanian coast lies the island of Corfu, one of the most richly endowed of all the Greek Isles. Praised by Homer in "The Odyssey" and selected by Shakespeare as the setting for "The Tempest," the island retains evidence of cultural heritage from each of its past rulers - Byzantium, Venice, France, Russia and Great Britain. Rolling acres of olive groves, small orchards of lemon and orange trees, tall cypress, oleander, and myrtle bushes lend a lush, verdant look to the island. While the oldest part of Corfu Town has cobblestone lanes so narrow only pedestrian travel is possible, the modern sector has wide avenues. Residents boast that its "Spianada" is the largest and most beautiful square in all Greece. Enjoy the day at leisure to explore, or join one of the sightseeing tours on offer (own expense).

Day 15 - Brindisi, Lecce

Today arrive in Brindisi, set on a peninsula between two arms of the Adriatic Sea. From here you will join a guided tour to the beautiful town of Lecce. Begin at Piazza St Oronzo, where you'll marvel at the 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre, which once held up to 20,000 spectators and marked the end of the legendary Appian Way. Stroll through the city centre to discover the unique Leccese Baroque style, characterized by Rococo and Baroque monuments from the 16th to 18th centuries. Visit the Santa Croce Basilica, a masterpiece of Baroque art, and admire the impressive façade of the Governor's Palace, a former Celestine monastery. Conclude your tour at Piazza Duomo, one of southern Italy's most stunning squares, before returning to the ship with your guide. This afternoon is yours to spend at leisure.

Day 16 - Kotor

Today arrive in Kotor, a Mediterranean town situated on a magnificent fjord. Here, board a local boat and travel along the Lustica Peninsula, known for its dense olive groves, lush pine forests and secluded blue lagoons. Arrive in the picturesque town of Prčanj, where you’ll enjoy a special experience. Reboard your ship for lunch, then enjoy some time at leisure to explore Kotor before setting sail.

Signature Experience – St Nicholas Classical Concert

Visit the church of St. Nicholas, built in the early 1700s in the baroque style, and home to a Franciscan monastery. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival, followed by a private concert performed by a guitarist duo.

Day 17 - Dubrovnik, Disembark Ship

Disembark your ship one final time in Dubrovnik today. Enjoy the remainder of the day to relax and explore before dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 18 - Dubrovnik

Explore Dubrovnik's World Heritage-listed Old Town in the morning. Discover the palaces, monasteries and churches all enclosed within the spectacular medieval city walls.

Day 19 - Depart Dubrovnik

Your tour concludes this morning. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Dates

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Travellers

Operator
APT

APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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$20,026*
per person twin share
18 nights
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