Your Itinerary
Welcome to Istanbul, a city like no other. Sitting gracefully between two continents, Istanbul spans the Bosphorus, with one side in Europe and the other in Asia. This unique blend of cultures creates a rich tapestry of contrasts, where traditional tea houses sit side-by-side with modern art galleries, and the hum of ancient markets fills the air. It’s a city that invites exploration at every turn, offering an unforgettable journey through time and diversity.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00pm.
This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a lovely welcome drink.
Get set for a full day exploring the fascinating city of Istanbul! We’ll begin with a visit to the majestic Topkapi Palace. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today it is filled with treasures and antiquities including 12,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We’ll then visit the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the hub of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history.
Next, we’ll head to the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time.
We’ll continue on to a local café, where you’ll have the chance to sample traditional Turkish sweets. Famous for its baklava and Turkish delight, this family-owned café has been delighting customers since it first opened its doors in 1864!
Special Experience
Excite your taste buds with some of Türkiye’s most famous delicacies, including baklava, Turkish coffee, and of course, Turkish delight!
No visit to Istanbul would be complete without exploring the Spice Bazaar, a sensory feast where the air is filled with the aroma of hundreds of exotic spices. Then, we’ll wander through the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. With its maze of antique shops, jewellery stalls and beautiful hand-painted ceramics, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
This evening, enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Our touring today kicks off with a visit to the domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), a marvel that has inspired architects and religious leaders for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this sacred site was built in 326 by Constantine the Great, while the current structure dating back to 537, has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque.
Next, we’ll explore the Hippodrome, which was the vibrant centre of both political and social life in ancient Istanbul. This bustling area once hosted chariot races and lively public events, all while being the backdrop for a series of fascinating historical moments. We’ll also visit the Underground Basilica Cistern, a hidden gem beneath the city. This otherworldly, yet beautiful, underground water storage facility was built in the 6th century and is supported by hundreds of ancient columns — truly a unique sight to behold with its columns brightly lit up.
This afternoon we’ll embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, where we’ll uncover marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek.
Day 5 - Istanbul – Gallipoli – Çanakkale
This morning, we say goodbye to Istanbul as our eyes are set on Gallipoli. Today is a deeply moving experience, as we visit a place that serves as a powerful reminder of a pivotal moment in history — one that played a crucial role in shaping Australia’s national identity.
Special Experience
Honour the ANZACs at Gallipoli with a specialist guide, as we explore ANZAC Cove, the Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials, and Johnston's Jolly.
We visit the World War I battlefields, most notable for being held by the ANZACs from 25 April to 20 December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial.
We’ll continue onto Çanakkale, our home for the night. Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years!
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Day 6 - Çanakkale – Troy – İzmir
We start our day with a short drive to the legendary ancient city of Troy. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, Troy has witnessed the rise and fall of nine different civilizations, from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire. The thought of standing before the legendary Trojan Horse replica at the city gates is enough to give anyone goosebumps.
As we explore this incredible site, we'll discover the connection to ancient tales like Homer’s Iliad, the Odyssey, and Virgil's Aeneid. What was once considered mere mythology was brought to life by the famous archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, who uncovered these ruins near modern-day Türkiye.
Afterwards, we set our sights on İzmir, Türkiye’s third-largest city and our home for the night. A bustling port on the country’s Aegean coast, İzmir has been shaped by the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and, most prominently, Ottoman empires, giving the city a rich cultural and historical foundation. Today, it’s known for its scenic waterfront and vibrant markets, where traces of its fascinating past appear around every corner — from ancient landmarks to lively bazaars.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, and tonight we’ll meet up again for by a delightful group dinner at the hotel.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Day 7 - İzmir – Cappadocia
We’ll transfer to İzmir airport early this morning for a short flight to Cappadocia, a region so otherworldly it feels like stepping onto another planet. Known for its distinctive landscape of towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys, Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site where the land itself has been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion.
Special Experience
Visit a local restaurant in Cappadocia and learn to prepare some of the local culinary specialties in a hands-on cooking class.
Run by a local women’s cooperative dedicated to preserving the region’s culture, this experience invites us to make Turkish ravioli, known as mantı. We’ll learn how to prepare the dough, fill it, and shape each ravioli by hand, guided by traditional cooking techniques and insider tips. At the end, we’ll get to savour the delicious creation we made from scratch!
After lunch, we're venturing into the hidden gem of Paşabaği, a mystical valley where nature and history collide. Picture this: rock-hewn homes, ancient churches, and a peaceful, monastic atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Later, we head to the Zelve Valley, once a bustling hub for Christians from the 9th to 13th centuries. Today, it's an outdoor museum, where we can wander among ancient dwellings and incredible churches carved into the rocks. After some time exploring this fascinating open-air museum, we return to our hotel before enjoying a delicious dinner.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Flight time will be approximately 3 hours.
For those that choose to do hot air ballooning, we have an early start this morning — but it’s totally worth it, we promise!
We will have time to rest before commencing with the rest of the day’s sightseeing. Today, we’re diving into the colourful world of Turkish carpets at the local municipality carpet cooperative. Get ready to witness the artistry and tradition behind these stunning textiles. From intricate designs to the weaving process, you’ll see how these timeless treasures come to life, thread by thread.
Next, we’re off to the magical Göreme Valley, where nature’s artistry has carved out the famous "Fairy Chimneys"! Formed over thousands of years as wind and rain sculpted the soft volcanic rock, these towering formations create one of Türkiye’s most extraordinary landscapes. Beyond their striking appearance, many of the rock formations hide a fascinating past — with homes, monasteries and churches carved directly into the stone by early Christian communities.
While here, we’ll explore several remarkable cave churches, including the beautifully painted Dark Church, and the Church of Saint Barbara, each decorated with colourful frescoes depicting biblical scenes. We’ll also see the historic Nunnery complex from the outside, once home to a community of nuns. Together, these sacred spaces offer a captivating glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life that once thrived here.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, and tonight we’ll meet up again for by a group dinner to round off the day.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Optional Excursion
Hot Air Balloon Ride – Gently float over the countryside in complete harmony with the deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of Cappadocia. Gentle winds carry you over places that could never be reached except by balloon. 45mins - from Euro 340pp. Cash only.
Optional Excursion
Whirling Dervishes – A performance about the mystical religious sect known as the Whirling Dervishes, using music and dance to induce themselves into a mystical state. As the ceremonial music plays, they begin to whirl, and their long skirts billow giving the impression that they are floating on air. 1hr – from Euro 40pp (minimum 5 people). Cash only.
Day 9 - Cappadocia – Konya
Rise and shine, art enthusiasts! Today kicks off with a colourful journey into the world of ceramics in Avanos. With its cobblestone streets and stunning views over the Red River, this quaint town offers the perfect backdrop for a pottery-making workshop. Get ready to dive into the magic of pottery with a lively lecture that'll spin tales as mesmerising as the pottery wheel itself.
Next we dive into an adventure beneath the surface as we explore one of Cappadocia's incredible underground cities, Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Imagine the hustle and bustle of thousands of people living, sleeping, and working in this underground maze. It’s like stepping into a real-life cave city — a fascinating peek into ancient ingenuity and survival.
We then set our eyes on Konya, one of Türkiye's oldest and most mystical cities. We’ll visit one of the largest surviving caravanserais along the Silk Road, the 13th century Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Historically, a caravanserai was a roadside inn, where travellers and merchants could rest and recover from the day’s journey. Not only did they provide accommodation and food, it was also an opportunity for merchants to exchange goods with people from across the vast regions the Silk Road covered.
By late afternoon, we arrive in Konya and have some time to unwind before dinner this evening.
Your travel time today is approximately 4 hours.
Day 10 - Konya – Pamukkale
Konya, a city of profound spiritual heritage and cultural depth, is closely tied to the legacy of the great poet, philosopher and Sufi mystic Mevlâna Rumi — who, in the 13th century, founded the Mevlevi Order and became renowned for his teachings on love, unity and spiritual devotion — which continue to inspire visitors from around the world.
Our first stop of the day is a visit to the home of the legendary Whirling Dervishes, the Mevlâna Museum. Whirling Dervishes are spiritual dancers that belong to the unique religious order ‘Sufi’ that use music and dance to enter a trance-like state as a way to connect with the divine. As the ceremonial music builds up, they begin their mesmerising whirling dance, their long skirts twirling and billowing, creating the illusion of floating on air. Walking through the museum and its exhibitions, we’ll get an insight into the long history of this fascinating tradition.
Farewelling Konya, we’ll make our way through the beautiful Turkish countryside with our eyes set on reaching Pamukkale, a destination with an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Pamukkale stands out as one of the highlights of Türkiye and this incredible location is where we will spend the night.
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Day 11 - Pamukkale – Kuşadası
Our day begins with a visit to the site of Hierapolis, an ancient Greek city that sits atop the famous cascading pool terraces. Established by the kings of Pergamon at the end of the 2nd century BC, this ancient spa town is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site revered for its striking natural formations and its complex Greco-Roman engineering techniques.
Over the last 14,000 years, calcium rich water from an underground thermal spring has flowed over the mountainside and slowly solidified, creating shallow white basins and twisted stalagmites. The water here in Pamukkale is well-known for its positive effects on the skin and eyes, as well as its ability to alleviate symptoms of asthma and rheumatism!
Next, we head to Kuşadası, a charming coastal town that boasts 300 days of sunshine annually. It’s a perfect spot to relax and unwind, but the best part? It’s the gateway to the incredible Roman ruins of Ephesus, just waiting to be explored!
In the afternoon, you’ll have some free time to explore Kuşadası at your own pace. Wander through the lively bazaars, where you’ll find everything from handmade goods to beautiful jewellery and unique souvenirs.
Optional Excursion
Hot Air Balloon Ride – See the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pamukkale hot springs from a completely different angle as you take to the skies on a hot air balloon adventure. 45mins – from Euro 210 pp. Cash only.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 12 - Kuşadası – Ephesus – Kuşadası
Prepare for an exciting day as we step back in time to explore Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered. Walking through its remarkable ruins feels like traveling through centuries of history, from classical Greece all the way to the Roman Empire, when this city was the Mediterranean's bustling commercial hub.
Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus, we’ll uncover daily life in ancient times. We’ll explore grand gymnasiums, bathhouses, and be awestruck by the Library of Celsus, whose towering façade still stands strong. Then, we’ll see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products.
After our morning exploration, we’ll have the afternoon at leisure. You may opt for a rejuvenating Turkish bath at one of the local spas or simply relax and take in the charming surroundings — the choice is all yours!
This evening we’ll head to a renowned vineyard in western Türkiye for a delightful wine tasting and dinner. There are over 20 wine grape varieties grown in the vineyards here, both local varieties and some completely new to Türkiye, so we’re in for a real treat during our sampling.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Day 13 - Embark Cruise: Kuşadası – Patmos
This morning, we set sail on a scenic cruise around the Greek islands. Our first destination is the beautiful town of Patmos, one of the Aegean's most beautiful islands. Known as the “Jerusalem of the Aegean,” Patmos is steeped in religious history and stunning natural beauty. It’s the place where Saint John the Divine received his visions and wrote the Apocalypse, featured in the New Testament.
Once we arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monastery of Saint John, at your own expense. Perched on a hill with panoramic views, this breathtaking site will leave you in awe. But Patmos isn’t just about its history — it’s a great spot to wander the charming streets, explore hidden beaches, or relax with a coffee at one of the local cafés. For those feeling adventurous, a walk up to the Cave of the Apocalypse, where Saint John is said to have received his visions, is not to be missed.
After a day of exploration, we’ll head back to the ship, where the fun continues. As we cruise through the night, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy some fantastic shows on board, perfect for winding down.
Day 14 - Cruising: Rhodes
Today, we’ll step off the ship and journey back in time on the beautiful island of Rhodes, where centuries of history and extraordinary civilisation await. Famous for being the home of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the island will enchant you with its charm. We’ll begin by exploring the Acropolis of Lindos. Perched high above the town, this ancient citadel offers spectacular panoramic views and gives us a glimpse into Rhodes’ rich past.
Next, we’ll wander through the medieval town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Lined with the seven lodges of the Knights of St. John, each still displaying its original coat of arms, this cobblestone street is where Rhodes’ history was made for over two centuries. At the top of the street stands the Grand Master’s Palace, a striking example of Gothic architecture. As we explore this grand fortress, we’ll be awed by its strength and the fascinating stories of the knights who once roamed these halls.
After a day full of history and beauty, we’ll return to the ship in the early evening to continue our cruise.
Day 15 - Cruising: Crete – Santorini
Today, we’ll arrive early in the port of Heraklion on the island of Crete, a place bursting with fascinating culture and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete offers so much to discover. You can join a guided tour at your own expense, and visit the legendary Palace of Knossos, an archaeological treasure full of myths, rich history and stunning ruins. Alternatively, you can relax and explore the charming local cafés or wander through Crete's lovely shops.
Before noon, we’ll set sail for the dreamy island of Santorini. Famous for its iconic, white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, Santorini looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. Once we arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore its picturesque villages, including Oia, at your own expense. Oia is known for its narrow, winding streets, unforgettable sunsets and jaw-dropping views of the caldera. But there's even more to enjoy! You can unwind on its unique volcanic beaches, stroll through art galleries or simply soak up the island's lively, welcoming atmosphere.
After a day filled with breathtaking sights, we’ll head back to the ship to continue our cruise.
Day 16 - Disembark Cruise: Lavrion – Nafplio
This morning we farewell our wonderful cruise and disembark the ship at the port of Lavrion, near Athens, and begin a scenic drive to the Corinth Canal, one of the ancient world’s greatest engineering feats. We’ll stop for a photo, capturing the stunning views of this canal, which connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
Next, we’ll head to Ancient Corinth to explore the ruins of this once-thriving city, one of the most powerful centres of the ancient Greek world thanks to its strategic position between the Aegean and Ionian seas. Dominating the site is the Temple of Apollo, one of the earliest Doric temples in Greece, built in the 6th century BC. Its imposing monolithic columns — carved from single blocks of limestone — have stood for over 2,500 years and hint at the city’s former wealth and importance.
We’ll also visit the Fountain of Peirene, a famed water source in antiquity that supplied the city with fresh water and was closely tied to Greek mythology. According to legend, the fountain was created from the tears of the nymph Peirene and later became an important gathering place for locals and travellers alike.
Afterwards, we’ll take a short drive to Epidaurus on the beautiful Argolid Peninsula. Here, we’ll visit one of Greece’s best-preserved ancient theatres. Known for its incredible acoustics, the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus dates back to the 4th century and could seat over 14,000 people — just imagine the performances that once echoed through it!
Finally, we’ll continue on to Nafplio, a charming seaside town with Venetian architecture and Ottoman structures. Its history traces back to the prehistoric era, and according to mythology, the town was founded by Nafplios, the son of Poseidon and Amymone. It is said that Nafplio is home to some of the best gelato in all of Greece — give it a try and let us know! We’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner to cap off a wonderful day of exploration.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Our day begins with a visit Mycenae, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites and the birthplace of the culture that reigned during the late Bronze Age. Stepping into this ancient city is like stepping back in time, where powerful rulers and captivating myths come to life. We'll marvel at the iconic Lion’s Gate and stand in awe of the massive Cyclopean walls — so large and sturdy that ancient Greeks believed only giants, or cyclops, could have built them! These enormous limestone boulders are a testament to the ingenuity of a bygone era.
Afterwards, we’ll venture to Nemea, a picturesque region famous for its lush vineyards. Here, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting, sampling some of the region’s finest wines. After a day filled with history and local flavour, we’ll return to Nafplio.
Special Experience
Visit a local restaurant in Nafplio where we’ll enjoy a hands-on lesson and cook up a feast of Mediterranean cuisine for dinner.
Hosted by a local chef, we’ll discover the fundamentals and secrets of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine as we watch live demonstrations and help prepare staple dishes — including a traditional “Greek salad” — all before enjoying our delicious creations for dinner.
To end the day, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through Nafplio’s charming laneways, soaking up the local atmosphere and the stunning seaside views — pure bliss!
Day 18 - Nafplio – Olympia – Nafpaktos
Today we bid farewell to Nafplio and set off on a scenic drive through the stunning mountains of the Peloponnese, making our way to Olympia. As the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, Olympia is steeped in history and excitement. Here, athletes once gathered to compete for glory, and today, we’ll explore the ancient site where it all began.
Our tour takes us through the impressive Olympia Complex, the sprawling site where the ancient Olympic Games began. At the heart of it is the Temple of Zeus — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — which once held a giant gold and ivory statue of Zeus by the famous sculptor Phidias. Built in the 5th century BCE, the temple was a symbol of Greek power and religious devotion, and even today, its massive Doric columns hint at the grandeur it must have held.
We’ll also wander around the Palaestra, a square training ground where athletes practised wrestling, boxing and the pentathlon. Nearby is the workshop of Phidias, where some of Greece’s most incredible sculptures were made. Walking through these ancient spaces, it’s easy to picture the athletes training and the crowds cheering, feeling the energy of Olympia in its prime.
In the afternoon, we’ll drive across the awe-inspiring Rio–Antirrio Bridge, a modern marvel that spans the Gulf of Corinth. The views are simply stunning as we head to Nafpaktos, where we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Welcome to Nafpaktos, a town rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. This charming town is famous for the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, where the Christian fleet claimed a pivotal naval victory over the Ottomans. It’s the perfect spot to step back in time and embrace the past.
We’ll kick off the day with a visit to the Castle of Nafpaktos, perched high above the town at around 200 metres. What you see today comes from Venetian updates, but the fortifications were developed in several stages, spanning from ancient times to the Turkish occupation. From the castle, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Corinthian Gulf and the Rio–Antirrio Bridge. It’s a prime spot for photos, so be sure to capture the beauty of the bridge stretching across the sparkling water below.
We then make our way to the peaceful village of Diakopto, nestled at the base of Mount Helmos. This quiet village offers a true taste of authentic Greek life, surrounded by scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere.
Special Experience
From the village of Diakopto, we’ll embark on a 'Rack and Pinion' train journey along the 19th century Odontotos Rack Railway through the stunning Vouraikos Gorge.
From Diakopto, we’ll board the historic Odontotos Rack Railway, a 19th century engineering marvel. Using a ‘rack and pinion’ system — a gear on the train that grips a toothed rail — the train climbs the steep slopes of the Vouraikos Gorge. As we wind through cliffs, forests and rivers, we’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery and experience a unique piece of Greek railway history. All aboard!
We’ll stop in Kalavryta and enjoy some free time for lunch. Here you’ll have the chance to try some local specialties — perhaps you may like to indulge in “brizola,” a traditional grilled steak.
After lunch, we’ll board our coach for the scenic drive back to Nafpaktos, where the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 20 - Nafpaktos – Delphi – Kalambaka
Today, we embark on a scenic drive through Greece’s lush hills and rolling countryside, heading toward the mystical town of Delphi. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the centre of the world. According to mythology, two eagles sent by Zeus flew from opposite ends of the world and met here in Delphi — making it a place that truly feels touched by the gods.
As we explore this remarkable archaeological site, we’ll visit the Sanctuary of Apollo, where pilgrims once travelled from across the ancient world to consult the famous Oracle of Delphi, whose cryptic prophecies shaped decisions in politics, war, and daily life. The sanctuary was the spiritual heart of Delphi, with grand temples, stoas, and sacred altars honouring Apollo. We’ll also stop by the Treasury of the Athenians, an impressively preserved building that once held valuable offerings and gifts to Apollo, and the Museum of Delphi, home to a plethora of fascinating artefacts including the Bronzed Charioteer.
After our exploration, you’ll have some free time to indulge in local Greek delicacies — why not try moussaka, a hearty dish made with eggplant and lamb, or souvlaki skewers grilled to perfection?
This afternoon, we’ll journey through the mountains to reach the picturesque town of Kalambaka, our home for the night. Famous for its vibrant painted doors and windows, Kalambaka is also home to the awe-inspiring Meteora monasteries — we’re in for a real treat here!
We'll settle into our hotel before a delightful dinner together
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Day 21 - Kalambaka – Meteora – Athens
Prepare to be amazed by the towering monasteries of Meteora, one of Greece’s most extraordinary landscapes. Rising dramatically from the Thessalian plain, these majestic structures perch atop enormous rock pillars that seem to defy gravity. The name “Meteora” means “suspended in the air,” a fitting description for a place where the beauty of nature meets incredible human craftsmanship.
Meteora’s history dates back to the 11th century, when hermit monks first sought refuge in the caves atop these cliffs, seeking solitude and spiritual devotion. By the 14th century, organised monastic communities began building the impressive monasteries that still stand today, creating a network of sacred sites that provided both safety from political unrest and a place for contemplation. Now a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Meteora blends natural beauty, architectural brilliance and centuries of religious tradition.
After some free time for lunch, we’ll hit the road and take a scenic drive to Thermopylae. This historic site is forever tied to the bravery of King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans, who made their heroic stand against the Persian army. We’ll stop here for a memorable photo with the impressive statue of Leonidas, standing proud as a tribute to his legendary courage.
Our eyes are then set on Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece, where ancient history and modern life exist in perfect harmony. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to unwind or explore before we gather for dinner at a local restaurant.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
We’ll begin the day at a relaxed pace with a morning at leisure before heading out on a panoramic tour of Athens, passing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll see the Academy, the National Library, and the Greek Parliament, as well as the famous Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where the changing of the guards is always a fascinating spectacle. We’ll also visit the Panathenaic Stadium, home to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and Hadrian’s Arch, a grand symbol of Roman influence in Athens. Of course, we can’t forget the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus, once one of the largest temples in the ancient world.
A trip to Athens wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel that towers above the city and has stood as a symbol of Greek civilisation for over 2,500 years. Here, we’ll see iconic structures such as the Parthenon, and the Temple of Athena Nike, each showcasing the architectural brilliance and artistic achievements of classical Greece. We’ll also visit the nearby Acropolis Museum which houses an impressive collection of sculptures and artifacts, offering fascinating insights into daily life, religion and culture in ancient Athens. Get ready for jaw-dropping views and a deep dive into the history of ancient Greece.
Afterward, we’ll take a leisurely walk through the Plaka neighbourhood, with its narrow streets lined with charming shops and cafés and enjoy some free time for lunch. Walking through this vibrant area is the best way to absorb the Athenian atmosphere — because let’s face it, the traffic here can be downright chaotic!
In the evening, we’ll stroll through the Monastiraki and Thissio areas before gathering for a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. Today marks the completion of our Türkiye and Greece group tour. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 24 - Arrive in Australia
Day 24 - Arrive in Australia
