Great Capitals of Turkey and Greece [8days]

Breakfast at hotel. Departure for half day tour “GOLDEN HORN”: We will start by visiting the famous café Pierre Loti which is on the top of the hill in the Eyup neighborhood and has a wonderful view of the Golden Horn. Free time to enjoy the view with the possibility of having a coffee or tea (at own expense). Then we will go to the Cathedral of St. George, it is the fifth church in Constantinople that houses the Ecumenical Patriarchate since the 15th century. Formerly a convent for Orthodox nuns, it was converted into patriarchal offices by Bishop Matthew II (1598-1601). On the way, we will see a part of the walls of Constantinople, once an impenetrable fortification, stretching for seven kilometers from the Sea of Marmara to the Golden Horn. Next stop will be a visit to the Mosque of Soliman the magnificent, considered to be the most beautiful of the imperial mosques of Istanbul, which was built between 1550 and 1557 by Sinan, the famous architect of the Ottoman Golden Age. Free afternoon to explore the city. OR you can take the optional “Classical tour”: In the afternoon, visit the Hagia Sophia; it is unquestionably one of the most fantastic buildings of all time. It was built by the Justinian’s in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters above the ground, with a diameter of 31 meters. During the Ottoman Empire it was converted into a mosque and with time the minarets were added. Continue by visiting the old Hippodrome that belongs to the Byzantine era, which was the center of civil activity in the country and where not only horse races and gladiatorial fights were held, but also celebrations in honor of the Emperor. Today it preserves the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Fountain of Emperor William. Next, visit Blue Mosque famous for its blue tiles and finally the Archaeological Museum, of world importance for the exclusivity and quantity of works that it contains in its buildings: the Museum of Antiquities with Greek, Roman, Byzantine pieces and the sarcophagi of the royal necropolis of Sidon; the Cinili Kosk (pavilion), exquisite pavilion of the s. XV that includes a collection of ceramics. Overnight in Istanbul.

Enjoy a free day in Istanbul to explore at your own pace. You can visit more landmarks, shop at the Grand Bazaar, or indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine. Overnight in Istanbul.

After breakfast, depending on your departure time, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, take a walk to experience the nightlife of Athens. Overnight in Athens.

After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Athens. Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the Prime Minister’s residence (Old Royal Palace), Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, and more. Explore the Acropolis and its architectural masterpieces, including the Parthenon and Erechtheion. Later, visit the Acropolis Museum. The evening is free for you to explore more of Athens or take an optional tour to witness the stunning sunset at Cape Sounion. Overnight in Athens.

Enjoy a day at leisure in Athens. You can revisit places that interest you or explore new areas. Alternatively, opt for an excursion to Argolida, where you can discover ancient Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Tiryns, three significant archaeological sites in the region. Overnight in Athens.

Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Athens Airport for your departure. Say farewell to Greece with beautiful memories of your trip. Safe travels!