From Istanbul to Athens

Welcome to Istanbul! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

East meets West Discover Istanbul with a captivating, guided sightseeing tour. Visit the Roman Hippodrome and hear about the events held there, marvel at the six minarets of the Blue Mosque and the intricate decoration and blue hues of its interior, stand below the breathtaking dome of the Hagia Sophia, visit Topkapi Palace to see how the Sultan’s lived, and discover a shopper’s paradise at the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, spread over 60 streets and location of over 4000 shops! Enjoy [LOCAL FAVORITE] a traditional Turkish coffee experience at an historical coffee roaster. This evening, make the most of some free time to explore more. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITIONS Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago and finally called Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between Orient and Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent yet exciting history.

Crossroads of the Ancient World Today, depart Istanbul and take a scenic drive through the Marmaris region. Cross the border into Greece and continue to the city of Alexandroupoli for an orientation drive that includes views of the lighthouse and other landmarks. (B,D) 193 mi / 310 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC NAMES. Founded in the 19th century as a fishing village, Alexandroupoli was originally known as Dedeagach. Stories state that this name was given to the town in the honor of an Old Turkish wise man who spent a lot of his time sat in the shade of a tree and was eventually buried there. The city was renamed after King Alexander I of Greece when he visited in 1920.

Picture Perfect This morning, make a leisurely stop in Xanthi, a charming city with a multi-cultural identity. Stroll the cobblestone streets and snap some photos of the “city of a thousand colors.” Continue to Philippi, once an important city of the Roman Empire, and enjoy a guided walking tour of the archaeological excavations. Reach Thessaloniki and enjoy some free time to start getting acquainted with the coastal city. (B,D) 208 mi / 335 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT PRIME LOCATION Thanks to its location, the ancient city of Philippi has had an important role to play. Originally founded due to its vicinity to the Mount Paggaio gold mines it became the location of King Philip II of Macedonia’s Royal Mint. Its importance continued to grow as it became an administrative center of the Roman Empire for its location on the Via Egnatia, the road connecting Rome to the East. Remnants of its importance can be seen during your guided visit to its archaeological site.

Cultural Capital of Greece A whole day to discover the wonderful city of Thessaloniki. This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour covering the main monuments and including a visit to the Basilica of Saint Demetrious. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. A UNESCO “City of Gastronomy,” Thessaloniki offers plenty of opportunities to sample local delicacies. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOTS Greece’s second city has so much to offer that it is often nominated the cultural capital of Greece. The remnants of fascinating Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history are clear to see. During your guided sightseeing see the iconic 15th-century prison tower, standing 34-meters, pass Aristotelous Square, the Jewel of Thessaloniki on the sea front and visit the UNESCO listed Basilica of Saint Demetrius. Also famed for its gastronomic offerings there is plenty of chance to dine on delicious Greek specialties whilst strolling along the lively streets.

Unspoiled Treasures A real treat is in store when you stop in Vergina to visit the Royal Tombs Museum. Located under the tumulus you will see the incredible unspoiled marble tomb of King Philipp II with all of its gold and silver treasures. Later today, reach Kalambaka, a small town in the heart of Greece, at the feet of Meteora. (B,D) 149mi / 240 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT FAMILY FOUNDATIONS Philipp II was the King of Macedonia, he is credited as a great diplomat who also possessed military prowess, increasing the number of soldiers in his army, whilst also improving their training and equipment. Bringing peace to his country and ruling much of Greece, he paved the way for his son, Alexander the Great, who, after Philipp’s assassination would go on to build one of the largest empires in the ancient world.

Monasteries in Magical Greece Get ready for a wonderful experience with an excursion into Meteora, which can be translated as “suspended in the air.” Prepare to be inspired by the breathtaking views afforded by this UNESCO-listed area. Enjoy a fascinating guided visit to the Monastery of St. Stephen and the Holy Monastery of Varlaam, perched atop the vertical rock formations. Later, enjoy an evening at leisure. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT SACRED SITES Perched atop soaring huge cliffs are the monasteries of Meteora, of which six are still active. Visit the beautiful monasteries of Varlaam and St. Stephen’s to marvel at this serenely mystical landscape with breathtaking views from above. Long revered for the perfect monastic retreat from the world outside, Meteora’s spectacular array of massive sandstone cliffs creates a surreal setting unlike any other.

Bravery in Battle This morning, sit back and relax for a scenic drive. Stop at Thermopylae, learn about the famous battle and see the statue of the Spartan King, Leonidas. Continue to Athens and enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening exploring. (B) 217 mi / 350 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDARY LIVES The story of the Battle of Thermopylae is hard to beat for drama. You may recognize this tale of the heroic, yet doomed Spartans of 480 BC fighting against the Persian army, which is dramatized in the film “300.” Their brave battle endures as a valiant symbol of bravery and sacrifice for a patriotic cause.

Marvels & Myths This morning, guided sightseeing features an orientation drive to see Athen’s main landmarks, including Syntagma Square, the Temple of Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium, plus a visit to the iconic Acropolis. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore more before joining your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOTS Explore the heart of Ancient Greece, in the historic empire where 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, never fail to amaze! See the Panathenaic Stadium, one of the venues of the first modern Olympic Games.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)