From Istanbul To Athens

Day 1 - ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY Welcome to Istanbul! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Day 2 - ISTANBUL 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 [LF] 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.

Day 3 - ISTANBUL - ALEXANDROUPOLI, GREECE 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.

Day 4 - ALEXANDRUOPOLI - XANTHI - PHILIPPI - THESSALONIKI 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.


Day 5 - THESSALONIKI 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.

Day 6 - THESSALONIKI - VERGINA - KALAMBAKA 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.

Day 7 - KALAMBAKA. EXCURSION TO METEORA 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.

Day 8 - KALAMBAKA - THERMOPYLAE - ATHENS 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.


Day 9 - ATHENS 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.

Day 10 - ATHENS Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Reviews

Read what other Tours4Fun travelers think about this tour.
Write a Review and earn 200 points. Attach photos to your review and earn 25 points per photo.
Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information.

Q & As

Please note questions previously answered may have different answers due to many reasons: season (date and year of travel), rates, availability, etc. You may also review our FAQ section for additional information you are looking for.
Be the First to Ask a Question
 

Special Notes

  • In order to protect your own property, please bring any valuable items with you at any time. Please do not leave any valuable items on the bus/hotel/attraction/restaurant etc. Tours4fun, local operators, drivers and tour guides will not take any responsibility for any theft loss at any location.
  • Depending on your arrival time, your hotel room may not be available until the afternoon. Most hotels allow check-in between 1:00pm-3:00pm, however some charge a fee for early check-in. Please check at the hotel desk to see if you may store your luggage at the hotel if you wish to explore the city on your own before check-in.
  • This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.
  • If any of the attractions are closed due to Covid-19, the guide will arrange the itinerary based on the actual situation on the tour date. Please understand. Thanks.

Reservation Process and E-Ticket

1.Immediately after submitting your reservation you will receive a Receipt of Reservation via email.
2. Within one to two business days of submitting your reservation you will receive a status update email from us. If you need to book an airline ticket, we recommend that you do so after you receive a confirmation of your tour reservation from us.
3. An E-Ticket will be sent to you via email as soon as details of your reservation are confirmed or your supporting information is received by us. We will provide you with all detailed information about your tour on the E-Ticket. Contact information for local tour provider will be included on E-Ticket for your convenience or re-confirmation purpose if re-confirmation is required.
4. Simply print your E-Ticket and present it with your valid photo ID on the day of your activity to your tour guide. Please remember E-Ticket is your proof of purchase.
 

Terms and Conditions

- Your purchase does not guarantee confirmation. Your purchase will initiate a reservation process. We will confirm with you via email within one to two business days.
- Prices may vary due to availability. We reserve the right to make price adjustment without prior notice.
- Please refer to our Standard Amendment, Cancellation and Refund Policy before you make reservation.
- Please refer to Customer Agreement before you make reservation.
- Local tour provider reserves the right to make modifications to tour arrangements including order of tour activities, hotel and its location if deemed necessary.

Traveler Photos

Upload your photos and earn 25 points per photo.
Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information.

No photos are shared

Edit Photo Title & Description

Loading……
Easy Book
  Tour Name   From Istanbul To Athens
  Tour Code  
QY
  Tour Duration    10 Days
globus

 
Got a Question? Don't Hesitate.
Got a Question? Don't Hesitate. 1.866.933.7368 / 1.626.389.8668
Click here to have our experienced tour consultant give you a call.

Why Book with Tours4Fun?

Low Price Guarantee
  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • Hand-picked Tours & Activities
  • Customer Satisfaction
  • Customer Care Available 24/7

Pricing (Per Person)

Land Start Date Price From:
2026-10-02 $2,739.00 See in Cart
 

Features

  • City Highlights
  • Transportation
  • Notes
  • This tour requires walking on uneven terrain, especially at archaeological sites, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
  • Travelers Notes
  • Special Features Included in this Tour:
    - Guided sightseeing tour in Istanbul includes visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar; plus, a complimentary [LF] traditional Turkish coffee experience
    - Visit to Alexandroupoli
    - Visit to Xanthi
    - Scenic drive through the Marmara region
    - Guided walk through the archaeological excavations in Philippi
    - Guided sightseeing in Thessaloniki includes a visit to the Basilica of Saint Demetrious.
    - Visit to the Royal Tombs Museum in Vergina
    - Guided visit to the monasteries of Varlaam and St Stephen's in Meteora
    - Visit to the site of the Battle of Thermopylae
    - Guided sightseeing in Athens includes an orientation drive to see the main landmarks, plus a visit to the Acropolis
  • Tags
  • ALEXANDROUPOLIS|ATHENS|CLASSIC|EUROPE|FIRST-CLASS|GLOBUS|GREECE|ISTANBUL|KALAMBAKA|METEORA|PHILIPPI|Private Touring|THERMOPYLAE|THESSALONIKI|TURKEY|VERGINA|XANTHI
  • Private Touring
  • 6 guests in a party: $1,972*
    18 guests in a party: $484*
  • Meals
  • 9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners
  • UNESCO Sites
  • Acropolis Athens|Archaeological Site of Aigai (modern name Vergina)|Archaeological Site of Philippi|Historic Areas of Istanbul
  • Title
  • From Istanbul to Athens