Day 1: depart for Istanbul/Izmir

Depart for Izmir with complimentary meals and beverages served onboard your international flight.

Day 2: Arrival in Izmir – Welcome to Kusadasi

Upon arriving in Izmir, meet your assistant and transfer to the vibrant seaside town of Kusadasi. After settling in at your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner and take in the relaxing atmosphere of this beautiful coastal destination as you prepare for the cultural discoveries ahead.

Day 3: Kusadasi – Exploring St. John, Bey Mosque & Ephesus

Start your day with visits to the historical Basilica of St. John and the majestic Bey Mosque. Your journey into history continues as you explore the ancient city of Ephesus, including the

awe-inspiring Temple of Artemis and the House of the Virgin Mary. Return to your Kusadasi hotel in the evening for a lovely dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.

Day4: Ferry to Samos – Island Charm

Begin your day with an early morning ferry ride from Kusadasi to the island of Samos, known for its lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Spend the day enjoying the island’s charm and tranquility, before settling in for an overnight stay in Samos.

Day 5: Patmos Tour – The Cave of the Apocalypse

Depart from Samos and take a ferry to the serene island of Patmos. Visit the Cave of the Apocalypse, a significant Christian site where St. John is believed to have received his visions.

After some free time to explore the island’s quaint streets, board a night ferry bound for Athens.

Day 6: Athens Arrival – Ancient Corinth & Return

Arrive in Athens and embark on a tour of Ancient Corinth, once a thriving city-state and now a rich archaeological site. Spend the afternoon immersed in history before heading back to Athens, where you’ll enjoy a pleasant dinner and overnight stay.

Day 7: Athens City Tour – Acropolis & Ancient Agora

Experience the iconic landmarks of Athens, starting with the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, visit Mars Hill and the Ancient Agora, once the center of public life in ancient Greece. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon before returning to your hotel for dinner.

Day 8: Mystical Meteora – Monastery Visits

Journey to the captivating region of Meteora, famous for its monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars. Visit the serene St. Stephanos Monastery and explore local icon workshops. In the evening, relax over dinner and spend the night in the nearby town of Kalambaka.

Day 9: Vergina & Thessaloniki – Ancient Treasures

Continue your journey with visits to the Veria Synagogue and the impressive Tomb of Vergina, a key archaeological site. In Thessaloniki, experience the vibrant blend of ancient and modern culture. Enjoy dinner in this lively city as you reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Day 10: Thessaloniki Panoramic Tour – Philippi & Kavala

Embark on a panoramic tour of Thessaloniki, where history meets the modern world. Visit St. Lydia’s Baptistery and the ancient ruins of Philippi, where St. Paul preached. Later, head to the coastal town of Kavala, where you’ll enjoy dinner and relax by the sea.

Day 11: Return to Istanbul via Ipsala Border

Begin your journey back to Istanbul, crossing the Ipsala border. Dinner and overnight in Istanbul

Day 12: Full day Istanbul

Breakfast at hotel. Full day classic city tour of Itanbul. Start the day with a visit to Hagia Sophia, a marvel of world architecture, before heading to the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles and the only imperial mosque with six minarets. Continue to the Hippodrome, the stadium of ancient Byzantium that held 100,000 spectators and featured objects from all corners of the empire. Enjoy your last evening in Istanbul with a farewell dinner, reflecting on the incredible sights and experiences from your travels through Greece and Turkey.

Dinner and overnight in Istanbul

Day 13: Depart back to USA

After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight home. As your journey ends, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories of ancient ruins, sacred sites, and the enchanting beauty of the Mediterranean.