19 Days Tour of Turkey & Greece
|19 Days, 13 Destinations |Starts from İstanbul
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Best price guaranteed
No booking fees
Earn €20 in travel credits
Duration

19 days

Max Group Size

35

Departure Type

Scheduled

Guiding Method

Fully guided

Physical level

easy

Operated In

English

Age Requirement

11 - 99 Ages

Tour Overview

Embark on a breathtaking 19-day adventure through Turkey and Greece, exploring ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. This journey takes you from the bustling metropolis of Istanbul to the magical landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the thermal terraces of Pamukkale, and the sun-kissed Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini.

Discover the legacy of ancient empires, marvel at natural wonders, and relax on stunning coastlines. From soaring in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia’s fairytale chimneys to watching the sun dip below the horizon in Santorini, this itinerary blends history, adventure, and leisure for an unforgettable experience.

Combined CountryDiscoveryFamilyHistoricalIn-depth CulturalExplorerPhotographyMuseumSolo TravelSightseeing

Route

Starts from

İstanbul

Ends in

Athens

Pickup Location

Istanbul Airport

Dropoff Location

Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos

Tour route map

Highlights

Istanbul – Where East meets West. Explore the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and cruise along the Bosphorus. Cappadocia – Experience a hot air balloon ride over its unique rock formations, explore underground cities, and visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum. Ephesus & Kusadasi – Walk through the ancient Roman city of Ephesus, home to the Library of Celsus and Temple of Artemis, and enjoy the coastal beauty of Kusadasi. Pamukkale – Witness the stunning white travertine terraces, soak in thermal pools, and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis. Athens – Stand in awe at the Acropolis & Parthenon, explore the historic Plaka district, and visit the Temple of Zeus. Delphi – Discover the mystical Temple of Apollo, once the spiritual center of the ancient world. Mykonos – Stroll through Little Venice, marvel at the famous windmills, and relax on its golden beaches. Santorini – Experience the world-famous Oia sunset, explore the whitewashed villages of Fira, and relax by the volcanic caldera’s blue waters.

Itinerary

Arrive in Istanbul. Welcome and assistance upon arrival at the airport by your local English speaking professional guide. Later transfer to hotel. In the afternoon, visit Grand Bazaar which is one of the World’s largest and oldest medieval century Bazaar. You will visit the New City Taksim District and enjoy the walk through the famous bustling streets of Istanbul. Overnight at hotel in Istanbul

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:00 am and 09:30 am pick-ups from hotel. Final timing one day before will be given you by your tour consultant.
Today you will depart for the Istanbul City Tour. "TOPKAPI PALACE" The great palace of the Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The palace houses an exquisite collection of crystal, silver, and Chinese porcelain. Robes worn by the sultans and their families, the famous jewels of the Imperial Treasury, miniatures, and the Holy Mantle; enshrining relics of the Prophet Mohammed. Next on the list is the "SULTANAHMET IMPERIAL MOSQUE" Across from St. Sophia built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet, is known as the "BLUE MOSQUE" because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. Outside the Blue Mosque we find the "HIPPODROME". The Ancient Hippodrome was the scene of chariot races and entertainment. The Hippodrome comprises of three monuments; the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine. After a short enjoyable lunch break After explore the ancient underground wonder of Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern, discovering the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. Marvel at the 336 marble columns and intricate carvings and learn about the history and architecture of this 6th-century wonder.

See the famous Medusa head columns and learn their story and enjoy the eerie atmosphere and soft lighting of the underground cistern.After the tour come back to Hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

Please Note: Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays, Topkapi Palace closed on Tuesdays. 

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:00 am and 09:30 am pick-ups from hotel. Final timing one day before will be given you by your tour consultant.
Today we will depart for Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise and Shopping Tour following the breakfast. BOSPHORUS BY BOAT a traditional excursion by boat along the waterway separating Europe and Asia. The shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages. During the excursion you will see the magnificent sights of the following attractions from your boat. See Dolmabahce Palace, and further along, the parks and imperial pavilions of Yildiz Palace. On the coastal edge of this park, is Ciragan Palace, 300 meters of its marble facade faces the shore. At Ortakoy a great variety of artists gather every Sunday to display their work along the street. Ortakoy is a symbol of tolerance with a church, a mosque and a synagogue existing side by side for centuries.
RUMELI FORTRESS Built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1452 prior to the conquest of Istanbul was completed in only four months to control and protect the infamous Bosphorus passage. It is one of the most beautiful works of military architecture anywhere in the world.
BEYLERBEYI PALAS (PALACE) The summer residence of Ottoman sultans exists in its original renovated glory featuring original antique furniture and magnificent gardens with the Harem on the Asian side of Istanbul.
BOSPHORUS BRIDGE enjoy a unique chance to step from one continent (Asia) to another (Europe) 
CAMLICA HILL the highest point in Istanbul. At the top of it you can rest and admire the magnificent panorama of Istanbul and the Bosporus from the beautiful gardens, landscaped in traditional Turkish Ottoman style.
SHOPPING TOUR (after cruise) Experience the traditional silk weaving skills of Turkish women at the carpet weaving courses provided by The Ministry of National Education. You will get the opportunity to see jewelry, handcrafts center and a modern leatherwear show. Enjoy the experience of shopping whilst gaining the knowledge of the ancient craftsmen, with Murti's Tour's local escort full of knowledge about how to haggle the streets of Istanbul. The rest of the evening is yours to explore Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul.

(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast and by 12:00 hours, we check out and free time till departure. Then, we depart for Istanbul airport for our domestic flight to Cappadocia. Transfer from Kayseri airport to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore Cappadocia. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia.

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:00 am and 09:30 am pick-ups from hotel. Final timing one day before will be given you by your tour consultant.

Today, we will get to know the Cappadocia region, a volcanic area in which the geological formation started 10 million years ago. As a result of these formations phallic like pillars have come to life. The beautiful horse country Katpatuka, (as the Persians called her) is an unbelievable strip of land, enchanting and mysterious. Cappadocia region is also famous for its arts, including ceramic and carpets. You will be picked up approximately 09.30 from your hotel to join our regular tour. Tour starts with Uchisar Castle, the highest point of Cappadocia. After Uchisar, you visit Goreme Open Air Museum, the Heart of Cappadocia. Goreme Open Air Museum is famous for frescoes dating to 10th century describing the life of Jesus Christ and monks. Next stop is Cavusin, which is an abandoned village with old cave Greek houses. After Cavusin, you go to the restaurant in Avanos to have lunch. After lunch, you visit a pottery work shop, to see how to make potteries. Next stop is Devrent Valley which is also called Imagination Valley, where you can see natural rock formations looking like animals. Then, you head to a wine shop in Urgup for wine tasting. Last stop is Three Beauties, three beautiful fairy chimneys with their hats which are the symbol of Cappadocia. This tour will end approximately 18.00 and you will be returned back to your hotel. Dinner and overnight Cappadocia.

(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:00 am and 09:30 am pick-ups from hotel. Final timing one day before will be given you by your tour consultant.
Today we will drive you to Ozkonak underground city, one of the best preserved and deepest Underground cities in Cappadocia. Ozkonak Underground city is 55 meters deep and 8 levels open to visitors. After that, we will drive you to Ihlara valley which is a 16 km long canyon and both side are lined with rock carved churches. We will have 3 km hike and visit one of the churches in the valley. At the end of the hiking, lunch be served at the Belisirma village beside river. After lunch, we will visit Selime monastery caved out of the rock by Christian monks in the 13th century. On the way back to hotel, we will stop at the pigeon valley. Dinner and overnight Cappadocia.

(Breakfast and Dinner included)
After breakfast  we depart for Kayseri airport for domestic flight to Izmir. Transfer from airport and check in to your hotel in Kusadasi. Dinner and overnight in Kusadasi

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:00 am and 09:30 am pick ups from hotel. Final timing one day before will be given you by your tour consultant.
Departure from hotel fully guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best preserved ancient sites in the world en - route, visiting the Temple of Artemis, Curetes street, famous Roman baths, Celsus Library and Grand theatre. Lunch break around 13:00pm. After the lunch, we will visit a place which continues to perform one of the oldest arts of Turkey; a carpet weaving centre. After Lunch we will do a Turkish Village Tour. Sirinces construction style today belongs to Anatolian Greeks. The houses on the slope are all Orginal with their white paints. Sirince Village also has a fantastic reputation for making some of the best wines in Turkey - especially fruit wines. We will visit the vineyards and it is time to learn how to make fruit wine with Turkish wine makers. In the evening you will be tested about your knowledge of making fruit wine. On the way we will visit one of the famous leather production centers of the region, where you will have the opportunity to get a good factory rate. On this guided tour, you will avoid the constant nagging and sometimes bullying that is well known in the markets of Turkey. Enabling you to enjoy the shopping experience whilst gaining the knowledge of the ancient craftsmen. Overnight in Kusadasi.

(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
After breakfast between 08:00 am and 09:30 am pick ups from hotel. Final timing one day before will be given you by your tour consultant.

We depart for Pamukkale. We will check at the hotel around 12.00 and we have a lunch break until 13.30. Afterwards we shall visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale (cotton castle) and the ruins of Hierapolis, then walk around this natural phenomenon and have the option of lying in the waters of the natural springs. After the tour transfer back to Kusadasi. Overnight in Kusadasi.

(Breakfast and dinner included)
The day is yours. You don't have to wake up early, enjoy the sunshine and take in the views and natural magnificent beach and crystal clear sea and explore the city, shop in the local markets, relax on the beach or enjoy one of the many day trips you have to choose from. These include Scuba diving, fishing tour, quad safari, horse safari, Turkish night, daily trip to Samos, Turkish bath, tandem sky diving, microlight flights, kite surfing, Pamukkale tour, Pergamon tour, Bafa lake tour, Bodrum tour, Didyma, Miletos, Priene, or book a daily plane to Istanbul City Tour, and many more.

 

(Breakfast and dinner included)
Transfer to the pier for the ferry boat to Greek Island of Samos. After migration, proceed on tour of Samos Island visiting Monastery, Pythagoras statue. Later, transfer to Samos Airport for flight to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, transfer to your hotel. In the evening experience Athens’ illuminated sights and nightlife. With a local guide, witness the Greek capital at its after-dark best and learn how Athenians relax, eat, drink, and party, End at an up-tempo music spot, enjoying foot-stomping Greek ‘bouzouki’ guitar folk music. Overnight in Athens

(Breakfast and dinner included)
This morning enjoy a panoramic tour of the highlights in Athens showcasing the city's ancient and glorious monuments, such as the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Olympic

Stadium. Next, tour of the incredible Acropolis & visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s most significant collections of Greek artifacts. Overnight at hotel in Athens.

(Breakfast and dinner included)  
Depart on a day trip to Delphi. Immerse yourself in the myths and monuments of classical Greece on this full- day tour of Delphi from Athens. Explore the UNESCO-listed archeological site of Delphi with an expert guide and learn how the city was considered the ‘Center of the World’ in ancient Greece. Stand in awe before the

dramatically situated Temple of Apollo, then discover long lost wonders at the Delphi Archeological Museum, including the Charioteer of Delphi and the Sphinx of Naxos. Overnight at hotel in Athens.

(Breakfast and dinner included)
We transfer to Athens ferry port for the high-speed ferry ride to Mykonos, the whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades Islands. Enjoy magnificent views as you cruise across the brilliant Aegean Sea to this island paradise. Arrive and transfer to hotel Poseidon or similar category. In the afternoon, a walking tour of Mykonos town and discover its charm and cultural roots. View white-washed churches, picturesque windmills where the grain used to be milled for bread flour, and stroll along narrow winding streets. Visit the island's “Little Venice,” where houses and cafes have been built directly at water level. Overnight at hotel in Mykonos

(Breakfast and dinner included)

After breakfast, take a boat ride to the archaeological Site of Delos. With your expert historian guide you will discover the myths and legends of ancient Greece in Delos. Visit the ancient monuments of the Temple of Apollo and the Sacred Way. Also visit the Windmills of Mykonos. From the 16th century one of the most recognized landmarks of Mykonos have been the windmills. Due to its geographic position, Mykonos was situated on major sea trade-route which at one time joined Venice, the gateway of Europe, to Asia .Overnight at hotel in Mykonos.

(Breakfast and dinner included)

Cruise to the most spectacular destination in the Mediterranean, the fabled island of Santorini. Arrive and check in at the hotel. In the evening enjoy the cruise to view the sunset. Visit clear waters while perched on the rim of massive active volcano in the middle of the seal Volcano tour & Hot Spring pool. Overnight at hotel in Santorini

(Breakfast and dinner included)

After breakfast at the hotel and begin your day with a visit to the excavation site of ancient Akrotiri, the most important prehistoric settlement found anywhere in the Eastern Mediterranean. Known as the "Minoan Pompeii," the flourishing town was at once destroyed and preserved by a volcanic eruption around 1450 B.C. Next, travel through a fascinating landscape of vineyards, whitewashed chapels and volcanic cliffs to the spectacular town of Oia, where the best views of the crater are found. Overnight at hotel in Santorini.

(Breakfast and dinner included)
Spend a full day at leisure in Santorini. Thousands of years ago, one of the most devastating volcanic eruptions in history occurred here. This event is believed to have led to the demise of the ancient Minoan culture and inspired several Greek myths. Walk through the small, white cave houses dug into the volcanic rock. Overnight at hotel in Santorini.

 

Take the Ferry to Athens. Upon arrival, transfer to your airport in Athens for your flight back to the home with happy memories of Turkey and Greece.

Trip includes

Included

3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Istanbul - The Central Palace Hotel Istanbul
3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Cappadocia  - Special Class El Puente Cave Hotel
4 nights’ hotel accommodation in Kusadasi - Odelia Resort Hotel
3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Athens -  Titania Hotel
2 nights’ hotel accommodation in Mykonos - Alkyon Hotel
3 nights’ hotel accommodation in Santorini Theoxenia Hotel 
 

 PS: If This hotel list not available at the time of your booking then we will arrange another similar hotel for your group. If you prefer a Different category hotel, there might be an additional cost

 

Hotel

Professional English - speaking tour guides

Guiding Method
Fully guided

English

18 open buffet breakfasts
7  Lunches Turkey
18 Dinners  Turkey


Vegetarian Halal Meat

All transportation included in the tour program
Transportation in a fully air - conditioned, non - smoking coach 

Coach / BusMini-coach

Guided Bosphorus Cruise
Guided Istanbul City Tour
Guided Ephesus Tour
Guided Turkish Village Tour
Guided Pamukkale Tour
Guided Cappadocia Red Tour
Guided Cappadocia Green Tour
All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
3 Water bottle (500 ml) per person per day
Turkey : Hotel room taxes, City tax

Guided Athens Tour
Guided Delphi Tour
Guided Mykonos Tour
Guided Delos Tour
Guided Santorini Tour
All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary

That sounds like an incredible trip! Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know for a 19-day tour of Turkey & Greece, covering Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Athens, Delphi, Mykonos, and Santorini.

1. Turkey Highlights & Tips

Istanbul
Top Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus Cruise.
Food to Try: Doner kebab, Baklava, Turkish Delight, Menemen (Turkish scrambled eggs).

Tips:
Visit mosques early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Get an Istanbulkart for public transport (trams, buses, ferries).

Cappadocia
Top Attractions: Hot air balloon ride, Göreme Open-Air Museum, Underground cities (Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı).
Food to Try: Testi kebab (pottery kebab), Manti (Turkish dumplings).

Tips:
Book hot air balloon rides in advance!
Wear comfortable shoes—lots of walking in rocky terrain.

Ephesus & Kusadasi
Top Attractions: Ancient city of Ephesus, Temple of Artemis, House of Virgin Mary.
Food to Try: Seafood in Kusadasi, Pide (Turkish pizza).

Tips:
Visit Ephesus early to avoid the heat and crowds.
Stay in Kusadasi for a relaxing seaside experience.

2. Greece Highlights & Tips

Athens
Top Attractions: Acropolis & Parthenon, Plaka neighborhood, Temple of Zeus, Syntagma Square.
Food to Try: Souvlaki, Greek salad, Moussaka.
Tips:
Get an Acropolis combo ticket to visit multiple historical sites.
Avoid taxis from the airport—use the Metro or pre-booked transfer.

Delphi
Top Attractions: Temple of Apollo, Delphi Archaeological Museum.

Tips:
Best done as a day trip from Athens.
Wear comfortable walking shoes—there’s a bit of a climb!

Mykonos
Top Attractions: Windmills of Mykonos, Little Venice, Paradise Beach.
Food to Try: Fresh seafood, Loukoumades (Greek honey donuts).

Tips:
Rent an ATV or scooter to explore the island.
Expect high prices, especially during peak season.

Santorini
Top Attractions: Oia sunset, Fira town, Red Beach, Akrotiri ruins.
Food to Try: Fava dip, Tomato fritters, Santorini wine.

Tips:
Book a sunset dinner spot in advance—Oia gets crowded!
Public transport is limited, consider renting a car or using taxis.

General Travel Tips
Currency:

Turkey: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Greece: Euro (€)

Best Time to Visit:

Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Summer (July–August) is hot and crowded, especially in Greece.
Packing Essentials:

 Light clothes, sunscreen, and a hat for Greece’s islands.

Modest attire for visiting mosques in Turkey.

Comfortable shoes for exploring ancient ruins.

Transport Between Destinations:

Turkey: Domestic flights (Istanbul–Cappadocia, Izmir for Ephesus).

Greece: Ferries between islands (book tickets in advance!).

Excluded

International flights
Domestic Ticket Istanbul to Cappadocia
Domestic Ticket Cappadocia to Izmir 
Domestic Ticket from Greece Samos to Athens

Insurance: All types

Ferry Ticket
Turkey entry visa
Geece entry visa
Greece Hotel room taxes, City tax
Greece Lunch
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, cold drinks, laundry
Any others expenses which are not mentioned at the included section
Tipping

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