Best Islands of Greece - Ciconia Travel

Journey through the gorgeous sights of Greece & Turkey from Athens to Istanbul over 18 days.

 

18 Days
10 Cities
2 Country
Discovery
5 & 4 Star Star Hotels
Around 20 People
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COLLAPSE ALL

Welcome to Greece

Meet the unparalleled cultural heritage of ancient Greece on an epic adventure in comfort and style.  Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by a Ciconia representative at the airport. In the afternoon, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Greet the sophisticated and delicious Greek cuisine tonight on a group dinner, make sure to leave room for amazing desserts.

Hotel

Grand Hyatt Hotel

Hotel

Radisson Blu Park Hotel

Meals

n/a

Optional Experiences

Group Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Group Dinner ( Optional Activity )

Athens City Tour

Journey to the depths of ancient Greece as we embark on a comprehensive city tour of the cradle of western civilization with our expert guide. Soak in unique sights such as the world-famous Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple and follow the footsteps of Socrates and Plato. On the way to Acropolis, we will have a scenic drive & photo stops where you will be seeing the Acropolis Museum, the Royal Palace, Temple of Zeus and Agora. We will also stop for photos at historic sites as Hadrian’s Arch and commemorate the first ever modern Olympics of 1896. You will have personal leisure time in the afternoon to continue your in-depth discovery until our exciting dinner plans. Gather for dinner at a local restaurant to experience the authentic Greek cuisine and culture with a folklore show, together with complimentary house wine!

Hotel

Grand Hyatt Hotel

Hotel

Radisson Blu Park Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner with Greek Folklore Show

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Parthenon
Sightseeing of Temple of Zeus and Agora
Acropolis
Royal Palace visit
Greek Folklore Show with dinner

Ferry to Mykonos

Wake up to the beautiful view of Acropolis overlooking Athens and transfer to the bustling port of Piraeus for your ferry to Mykonos. Sailing the open seas on a comfortable Aegean ferry, approach the charming windmills and whitewashed houses covering the slopes surrounding the port. The famous island offers gorgeous towns of narrow cobbled streets, lively beach clubs, exquisite authentic dining and an endless nightlife. Checking into your hotel in the late afternoon, launch your discovery through the mazes of streets filled with stalls, shops, cafes and bars. In the evening, we have special dinner plans at the well-known Platis Gialos beach where you can try out fine samples of Greek cuisine.

Hotel

Nimbus Hotel

Hotel

Croco Mykonos Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner at Platis Gialos

Sightseeing Activities

Mykonos Orientation Walk
Dinner at Pilatis Gialos

Mykonos

You have a full day to make the best of Mykonos, enjoy one of its stylish seaside clubs or colourful party beaches, lose yourself purposefully among the labyrinthine streets uncovering its hidden gems. Start with an orientation walk with your guide around the main port to get your bearings – as navigating the narrow maze-like streets is no small feat. Our boat trip today to Delos island presents incredible ancient ruins at the ‘birthplace’ of the gods Apollo and Artemis. Inhabited since 3rd millennium BC, it is one of the most prized mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in all of Greece. In the evening, taste delicious local seafood and view the most stunning sunset over Little Venice. As you finish your tasteful wine, feel free to discover the rich nightlife of Mykonos.

Hotel

Nimbus Hotel

Hotel

Croco Mykonos Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Delos Island Boat Trip

Leisure Time

Soak in the Aegean sun and the energizing beat at one of Mykonos’ famous beaches. Start learning your way around town and discover beautiful quaint villages scattered around the island. Hire a ride to create your personal itinerary and discover the diverse range of attractions in Mykonos. Find your favourite ice cream store and view a stunning sunset at Little Venice with the waves ascending beside colourful houses lined by the sea. Enjoy delicious seafood and a trendy bar at the seaside.

Hotel

Nimbus Hotel

Hotel

Croco Mykonos Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Little Venice

Ferry to Santorini

Bid farewell to the beautiful and crazy Mykonos and ferry to the gorgeous Santorini. Comfortably cruising the Aegean, approach the breath-taking view of steep cliffs and terraces of whitewashed houses. Santorini is blessed with a unique geology and nature, colourful beaches of volcanic sand, immense historical and cultural treasures, and a world-famous sunset. Stroll the vibrant town and soak in a scenery of a lifetime as blue churches and white houses unfold before you. In the evening, get to savour the delicious seafood and local recipes at a select restaurant in Oia with incredible views over the sea.

Hotel

The Majestic Hotel

Hotel

Splendour Resort Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner at Oia

Sightseeing Activities

Santorini Orientation Walk
Dinner at Oia

Santorini Walking Tour

Journey through the heart of the town on a walking tour with your guide. Uncover the bustling town centre, famous landmarks and the popular hotspots for the best views. Take a short boat trip to the crater and hot springs part of the volcano that gave Santorini its unique shape and features. In the afternoon at Oia village, watch the sun disappear in the blurred horizon between the sky and the sea from a pool atop the cliffs. Discover the diverse nightlife of Santorini with plentiful restaurants, lounges, bars and clubs.

Hotel

The Majestic Hotel

Hotel

Splendour Resort Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Sightseeing Activities

Santorini Volcano Tour

Leisure Time

Freely discover the myriad of beautiful sights at Santorini that you couldn’t make the time for. You can hire quadbikes or motorcycles from a local provider to make it to the black or white beach in the South, then the Archaeological Museum of Thera before a refreshing stop; shape your journey as per your wishes. Visit prehistoric settlements; beaches of colourful sand and water sports; quaint villages, wineries and more. Sample the fine Greek cuisine and delightful local wine with astounding views over the village to cement your memories of Santorini.

Hotel

The Majestic Hotel

Hotel

Splendour Resort Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

Flight to Istanbul

Wake up to the beautiful Santorini for a final breakfast on the island. Transfer to the airport for your connecting flight to Istanbul (via Athens). Upon arrival, a Ciconia representative will meet & drive you to your Istanbul hotel. Later, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Greet the diverse and incredibly tasteful Turkish cuisine tonight on a group dinner, make sure to leave room for delicious desserts.

Hotel

Hilton Hotel Bosphorus

Meals

Breakfast

Optional Experiences

Group Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Group Dinner ( Optional Activity )

Istanbul City Tour

Journey to the heart of Istanbul old town and witness the perfect blend of ancient and modern unfold before you. Stroll with your expert local guide through the Hippodrome, visit the charming Blue Mosque and the mysterious Cistern Basilica. Enjoy an exquisite meal worthy of Sultans next to the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Haggle your way through the famous Grand Bazaar, visit countless monuments and embrace the local culture. In the afternoon meet the breath-taking Bosphorus in all its charm as you cruise in-between Europe and Asia.

Hotel

Hilton Hotel Bosphorus

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
Sightseeing of Basilica Cistern
Sightseeing of Hippodrome

Depart for Gallipoli

After a delicious breakfast, we leave for the famous shores of Gallipoli. As you drive through the scenic countryside, we recharge at the lovely village of Kesan over a delicious meal. Arriving in Gallipoli in the afternoon, we pay our respects to the fallen Turkish and Australian soldiers who bravely fought here during World War 1, still commemorated every year in April. Witness the now-green battlefields, visit the Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair and other important historical sites. We continue towards Canakkale with a picturesque ferry ride just in time for dinner and a recharging stay at our hotel.

Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of ANZAC Cove
Lone Pine visit
Chunuk Bair visit

Depart for Izmir

A day filled with epic adventure awaits. In the morning, we visit the ancient city or Troy and witness the ruins of the once glorious city with a special place in mythology and history. Pose with the famous Trojan Horse before departing for Pergamon. Home to healing waters and ruins of the Asklepion medical centre, it is one of the most important centres of healing of the Roman world. Following the cultural overload, we rest at the seaside metropolitan Izmir - the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Turkish seafood culture and raki.

Hotel

Izmir Marriott Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Troy Ancient City
Sightseeing of Trojan Horse Canakkale
Sightseeing of Asklepion

Depart for Pamukkale

Drive along the coast to the amazing ruins of ancient Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage. Stroll the incredibly well-preserved ancient city and the impressive library. With a short ride away from the marvellous wonders, you will visit Virgin Mary’s house in the mountains – where she is believed to have lived her final days. Our next stop will be of culinary discovery at a lovely restaurant in the countryside famously known for delicious gozleme. Heading further inland, we arrive in our hotel at the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Rest up, relax or even savour the spa or massage services of your hotel. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant.

Hotel

Doga Thermal Health & Spa

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Ephesus Ancient City
Sightseeing of Celsus Library
House of Virgin Mary visit

Depart for Konya

Walk in the shallow pools of calcar with breath-taking scenery unfolding before you in terraces of snow-white travertines. Famously known for its mineral-rich waters and healing properties, Pamukkale region has welcomed endless visitors over millennia. Delve into history at the ancient city Hierapolis and its majestic amphitheatre of 15,000 seats and ever-impressive acoustics. The journey continues towards Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes - members of the Sufism order. You can relax at your hotel over dinner and replay cherished moments of discovery.

Hotel

Dedeman Konya Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Pamukkale
Sightseeing of Hierapolis Ancient City
Sightseeing of Cleopatra's Pool

Depart for Cappadocia

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century, which have lived in his teachings of understanding and acceptance to this day. From cultural to natural wonders, we travel inland towards the other-worldly Cappadocia. One of the most popular sites in Turkey, the famous region is decorated with stunning caves and fairy-chimneys: unique formations of eroded volcanic rocks and tuff. Starting the adventure at Avanos - famous for its top-quality clay, learn all about pottery-making at an interactive workshop. After a long day of cultural discovery, relax at your hotel and join your group over dinner at the hotel.

Hotel

Double Tree by Hilton Avanos

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Mevlana Museum
Sightseeing of Karatay Madrasa
Pottery-Making Workshop

Cappadocia

Rise early to join the hot-air balloon experience, flying over the magical fairy-chimneys. A bucket-list item for all keen travellers, it is an experience not to be missed (please bear in mind that this optional experience is dependent on weather conditions). As you disembark your balloon, you will get the chance to explore the wondrous formations up close at Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The soft rock has allowed for both nature and people to carve incredible underground cities, chapels, cave houses and much more. These impressive millennia-old underground structures have sheltered countless Christians escaping the Roman Empire in the 4th century and housed Orthodox monks in the 12th century. Here you’ll witness the wonders of nature as well as each culture engraved in the fabric of this marvellous geography. Later on, delve into one of the finest and oldest crafts of Turkey at its home as we visit a carpet-weaving workshop. In the evening, you can relax at your hotel over dinner and replay cherished moments of cultural discovery. Alternatively, you may join a live show of whirling dervishes to witness the unique divine ritual, an unforgettable experience. You can also join an optional wine tasting session or Turkish Night show.

Hotel

Double Tree by Hilton Avanos

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Optional Experiences

Hot Air Ballooning - € 290

Optional Experiences

Turkish Night - €40

Optional Experiences

Whirling Dervishes - € 30

Sightseeing Activities

Sightseeing of Goreme Open-Air Museum
Carpet-Weaving Workshop
Hot Air Ballooning - 250 EUR ( Optional Experience )
Whirling Dervishes - € 30 ( Optional Experience )
Turkish Night - 40 EUR ( Optional Experience )
Wine Testing - Free ( Optional Experience )

Fly to Istanbul

Today, we take a short flight to Istanbul. Arriving at your Istanbul hotel, enjoy your personal leisure time.

Hotel

Hilton Hotel Bosphorus

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Goodbye

Our marvellous adventure comes to an end over breakfast with newfound friends. Make sure to bid farewell and exchange numbers before checking-out of the hotel (at 11:00). Complementary airport transfers are available all day, have a safe and smooth journey!

Meals

Breakfast

SERVICES

Ciconia Exclusive Tours include premium services such as 5-star accommodation, modern comfortable transportation, incredible sights & all entrance fees, breakfasts & most dinners, tips, porterage and more.

5 Star Hotels

Accommodation in comfortable and ideally located 5-star hotels.

Comfortable Transportation

Air-conditioned coach or minibus, ferry between Athens & Mykonos and Mykonos & Santorini, flight between Santorini-Athens, Athens-Istanbul, & domestic flight between Cappadocia and Istanbul.

Most Dinners

17 Breakfasts, 11 Dinners.

Travel Director

Local & Expert Travel Director throughout your trip.

Journey Highlights

Must see sights, hidden gems & authentic experiences. Find more details below and in the itinerary.

All Entrance Fees To All Sights

Entrance fees to all cultural, historical and natural sites on tour.

Private Airport Transfer

Complimentary private airport transfers on arrival and departure dates.

Baggage Handling

Seamless baggage handling, delivered to your room at every hotel.

All Tips, Taxes And Porterage Charges

Tips at the hotels and restaurants, all taxes and porterage fees.

Free Wi-Fi

Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

HOTELS

Knowing that your accommodation may separate a great holiday from a perfect one, we take ultimate care whilst hand-picking each location we host you. Only the truly exceptional in terms of comfort, character, amenities, location and service are suitable to our standards. (Hotels are subject to change depending on the group size.)

Grand Hyatt Hotel

Athens

Located on the famous Syngrou Avenue, between the cultural center of the historic city of Athens and the cosmopolitan Athenian Riviera, Grand Hyatt Athens offers the ultimate hospitality experience in a city with a heady mix of history and edginess.

Radisson Blu Park Hotel

Athens

A 5 star contemporary accommodation offering unique views over Acropolis. The hotel is equipped with a rooftop swimming pool, a SPA and wellness center, a fitness center and modern-design spacious rooms.

Nimbus Hotel

Mykonos

This luxurious hotel with a minimalist yet elegant design offers you a unique experience in the dazzling island of Mykonos. Take a drink at the pool bar and savour the Eagean way of living.

Croco Mykonos Hotel

Mykonos

A luxury hotel with charming island architecture offering the guests an outdoor swimming pool, an onsite restaurant & bar, a fitness center and modern design rooms with tea/ coffee maker, minibar and flat screen tv.

The Majestic Hotel

Santorini

A splendid accommodation with a perfect location, offering rooms with balcony, 2 fresh water swimming pools & 1 heated pool, a wellness center including a sauna & Turkish hammam, and a fitness room.

Splendour Resort Hotel

Santorini

Situated in the scenic Firostefani, Splendour Resort offers elegant 5-star accommodation with views over the Aegean Sea. Nestled into hillside, the hotel blends in magically with its Cycladic surroundings and enjoys breathtaking views of the east side of the island.

Hilton Hotel Bosphorus

Istanbul

Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, amidst picturesque gardens, you’ll find Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus, an iconic hotel with a storied past spanning 6 decades. Guest rooms and suites offer modern conveniences and private balconies overlooking the Bosphorus and the Old Town.

DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale

Canakkale

DoubleTree by Hilton is centrally located in Canakkale, offering views of the Dardanelles Strait and access to the coastal walkway. After a busy day, you can relax in the traditional Turkish Hammam or go for a swim in the indoor and outdoor pools.

Izmir Marriott Hotel

Izmir

Izmir Marriott Hotel features a restaurant, free bikes, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and fitness center in İzmir. In a prime location in the Konak district, this hotel has a bar, as well as an indoor pool and a hammam.

Doga Thermal Health & Spa

Pamukkale

Doğa Thermal Health & Spa offers a spacious garden, an indoor pool and an outdoor pool with free parasols and sun loungers. The property has a physiotherapy clinic on site. Rooms here will provide you with air conditioning and a balcony

Dedeman Konya Hotel

Konya

Dedeman Konya Hotel is a very modern & centrally located hotel in Konya, the capital of the Seljuks. With its Turkish bath, sauna, fitness center, 3 swimming pools and squash, comfy spacious rooms and restaurants, the hotel meets most of the demands expected from a 5 star luxurious hotel.

Double Tree by Hilton Avanos

Cappadocia

Set in Avanos, in Turkey’s unique and beautiful Cappadocia region, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Avanos Cappadocia is the perfect hotel for travelers who wish to experience the culture and heritage of the local area, which includes two UNESCO World Heritage sites and countless natural wonders.

DATES AND RATES

All prices are per person, based on double or twin room share occupancy. Solo passengers may book a private room subject to a supplement.
DEPARTURE
RETURN
STATUS
TWIN ROOM
SOLO ROOM

HIGHLIGHTS

Home to unparalleled cultural heritage, Greece presents stunning monuments and charming villages, legendary mythology and beautiful nature whether discovering the cities or the islands. In Turkey, dive deep into the rich culture via remarkable sights shaped over millennia by Ottoman, Islamic, Roman, Christian and Turkish habitants.
Asklepion
Asklepion

The Asklepion is a famed ancient medical center built in honor of Asclepius, the god of healing. It was also the world's first psychiatric hospital.

Athens
Athens

You will fall in love with the perfect combination of culture, history and the dynamic contemporary life in one of the oldest cities in the world.

Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque

The exterior features a beautiful cascade of domes and six minarets and blue Iznik tiles adorn the interior giving the building its unofficial but commonly used name.

Cappadocia
Cappadocia

A region of exceptional natural and man-made wonders. Take the chance to discover underground cities carved into rock, fairy chimneys and many more...

Ephesus
Ephesus

The best preserved ancient town in Turkey, Ephesus embarks you on a journey to ancient times while roaming the streets.

Gallipoli
Gallipoli

Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, Anzac Cove, Johnston's Jolly, North Beach, Ari Burnu, Hell Spit, Brighton Beach, Shrapnel Valley, Artillery Raod, Quinn's Road and more…

Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, among the Seven Wonders of the World, awaits you with all its magnificence. The hundreds of years old structure will fascinate you on sight.

Izmir
Izmir

Izmir which was known '' Symrna'' in Ancient Greek times. It was ruled by the many ancient civilizations such as Roman Empire, Persians, and Ottoman Empire. It's located in the west of Turkey and has coast line to the Aegean sea which makes it a great hub for sea tranportation both commercial and touristic reasons.

Konya
Konya

Konya, which has been playing a centrel role being a cradle for many civilizations throughout the history, is one of the unique centers that combine its historical heritage and cultural accumulation with present time.

Mykonos
Mykonos

Greece’s most famous with blue flag beaches, whitewashed streets and vibrant nightlife. You won’t want to leave the ‘The Island of the Winds’!

Pamukkale
Pamukkale

Home of the world-famous travertines, the cotton castle. You will witness the unusual and beautiful scenery just near the ancient city of Hierapolis, the ancient cure center.

Santorini
Santorini

The most beautiful sunset in the world… This volcanic island has unique scenery with its multi-colored cliffs and beaches. Pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy.

Troy
Troy

The legendary city where you can outline layers of ruins of cities built on top of each other and visit the famous Trojan horse, awaits you.