TRIP TO TURKEY AND GREEK ISLANDS

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Overview

Our next adventures will take us to Turkey and the Greek Islands, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

We’ll start our journey in Turkey, exploring its rich cultural tapestry and historical wonders. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Turkey offers a diverse array of experiences. We’ll visit iconic sites such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, known for its fairy-tale-like rock formations and hot air balloon rides. The trip will also include opportunities to indulge in delicious Turkish cuisine and relax in traditional hammams.

Following our Turkish adventure, we’ll set sail to the idyllic Greek Islands. Our itinerary includes stops at some of the most beautiful islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. In Santorini, we’ll marvel at the famous sunsets and the iconic white-washed buildings with blue domes. Mykonos offers vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, while Crete provides a rich history with ancient ruins and charming villages. The Greek Islands are perfect for both relaxation and exploration, offering crystal-clear waters, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and warm hospitality.

We will stop in Athenes for two days. Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. A major coastal urban area in the Mediterranean, Athens is also the capital of the Attica region and is the southernmost capital on the European mainland. With its urban area’s population numbering over three million, it is the eighth largest urban area in the European Union.

These trips are carefully curated to offer a blend of cultural exploration, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re interested in history, cuisine, or simply enjoying beautiful landscapes, there’s something for everyone.

If you or anyone you know is interested in joining these trips or needs assistance planning a different travel experience, I would be delighted to help. My aim is to provide seamless and personalized travel services, ensuring every journey is memorable and enjoyable.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like more information or if there’s anything I can assist you with. I look forward to catching up soon and potentially traveling together.

Itinerary

Depart USA

We will be having a welcome dinner at the hotel in the evening. Optional: Welcome in a historic and charming arcade located in the vibrant Beyoglu or at the hotel. Overnight. (D.)

Arrive to Istanbul

Day 2 Mon. Oct. 20: Arrive to Istanbul Arrival at Istanbul Airport at 04:25 PM and transfer to the hotel. Optional: Welcome in a historic and charming arcade located in the vibrant Beyoglu or at the hotel. Overnight. (D.)

Istanbul

After the breakfast departure for full day tour “CLASSIC”: We will start by visiting the Hagia Sophia “Divine Wisdom”, it is unquestionably one of the most fantastic buildings of all times. It was built by Constantine the Great and rebuilt by Justinian in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters from the ground, with a diameter of 31 meters. During the Ottoman Empire it was converted into a mosque and over time minarets were added. Then, visit Blue Mosque, which was built in 1609 during the Sultanate of Ahmet, famous for its blue tiles and six minarets. We will continue visiting the old Hippodrome that belongs to the Byzantine era, which was the center of civil activity in the country and where not only horse races and gladiatorial combats were held, but also celebrations in honor of the Emperor. Today it preserves the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Fountain of Emperor William. Then, we will explore the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace complex includes lavish courtyards, gardens, and buildings showcasing exquisite architecture and artifacts. Highlights include the Imperial Treasury, the Harem, and the Sacred Relics. Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it offers a vast array of goods, from spices and sweets to jewelry, textiles, and traditional crafts. Overnight. (B/D)

Istanbul (Free day)

After your included breakfast the rest of the day is at leisure, perhaps shop at the Grand Bazaar (B.)

Istanbul – Cappadocia

Breakfast at hotel. Check-out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight. Domestic Air Kusdasi ( Izmir – Istanbul is included in the package). Arrive in Kayseri and drive to Cappadocia for approximately 1 hour with visits on your way to the hotel in Cappadocia. Along the drive to the heart of Cappadocia, your guide will explain about the history & unique geology of the area. The first stop is at the famous Devrent Valley with some of the most spectacular rock formations. Here the hoodoos have eroded naturally to form interesting shapes…including the well-known camel rock that stands at the front of the valley. The next stop is the Zelve-Pasabag valley where the iconic Fairy Chimneys dot the landscape. This is the perfect location for your guide to explain how the unique landscapes were formed as you can still see the newly forming fairy chimneys in various stages of erosion many have caves and chapels or churches located inside. The Pasabag (or Monk’s) Valley has a rich & fascinating history and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and fresh air while walking among the different rock formations. Free time for lunch. At the end of the valley visits, you will transfer to your hotel. Optional Turkish night show at a local restaurant. (B/D)

Cappadocia

Optional hot-air balloon flight. Breakfast at hotel. Departure to visit this fantastic region, where Saint George was born, with its fascinating and original landscape, formed 3 million years ago by lava thrown from the Erciyes and Hasan Volcanoes. Visit to the underground city of Ozkonak (or another similar one) built by the Christian communities to protect themselves from Arab attacks. We will make a stop at a carpet and kilim workshop. In the afternoon, visit the many monasteries and chapels of Goreme, dug out of the rocks and decorated with frescoes. We will also pass through the Guvercinlik valley and admire a wonderful panoramic view of the Uchisar castle, located on top of a volcanic rock promontory pierced by tunnels and windows. At the end we will make a stop at an artisan workshop of decoration, typical stones and Cappadocian jewelry. Dinner at hotel and overnight. (B/D)

Cappadocia – Konya

Breakfast at hotel. Early departure to visit the Seljukian Caravanserai “Sultanhani”, located on the legendary Silk Road, and which served as a stopping place for trade, pilgrimage or military caravans. Drive along the winding mountain roads to the holy city of Konya. In Konya, visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, the great mystic who inspired the Whirling Dervishes. Transfer to the hotel in Konya. Dinner at hotel and overnight. (B/D)

Konya – Pamukkale

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Pamukkale (cotton castle), a small town famous for its petrified white travertine pools formed by the lime contained in the water from the thermal springs that emanate in the area. First, visit Hierapolis, an ancient spa city founded around 190 BC by the King of Pergamon. Prospering greatly during Roman times, it was built on top of the pools with a beautiful theater and large necropolis. Transfer to the hotel in Pamukkale. Dinner at hotel and overnight. (B/D)

Pamukkale – Ephesus

Breakfast at hotel. We depart to Ephesus, the best preserved classical city in Turkey built in 1,000 BC (the remains that we see today are from the 4th century BC) where we will highlight: the Library of Celsus, Hadrian’s temple and its great theater. After exploring Ephesus, we will visit the House of St. Mary, believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary. This sacred site is a place of pilgrimage for many Christians and offers a serene and reflective environment. Visit the ruins of Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. At the end we will make a stop at one of the places for leather fashion show. Transfer to your hotel. Dinner at hotel and overnight. Optional exclusive Farewell Dinner at the hotel. (B/D)

Izmir & Departure

Izmir & Departure Transfer to Kusadasi pier or to Izmir airport for home flight. End of our services. (B)

OPTIONAL CRUISE with CELESTYAL CRUISES

DEPARTURE FROM KUSADASI: 13:00

As we say farewell to our friends who chose to return home today, we board our optional cruise to the Greek Islands. After settling in and having lunch on board we arrive on the Greek Island of Patmos

ARRIVAL IN PATMOS AT 16:30 – 21:30

The monumental grid of medieval walls provides a picturesque setting as we pull into the port of Skala on the idyllic Greek island of Patmos. Locally known as the ‘island of the Apocalypse’, Patmos boasts a spiritual vibe thanks to the legends of St. John. Take the opportunity to explore the lush, forest-like hills that encircle the capital, Chora, all with a local guide by your side

RHODES (07:00-18:00)

The stunning landscape of Greece’s largest Dodecanese Island, Rhodes, seamlessly combines dramatic ancient and historic sites with charming modern hillside villages. Here you can visit the ancient Acropolis at Lindos or explore the cobbled alleyways and narrow arteries in the Old Town where opulent architecture awaits.

HERAKLION (CRETE) – SANTORINI

As we pull into Heraklion, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th-Century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront or opt to go on a whirlwind adventure around the Cretan countryside. To delve into Crete’s past, take a spellbinding tour of the Palace of Knossos, which invites you to listen to tales of intrigue and learn about Europe’s first civilization in the Knossos Museum. Was the Minotaur half-man or myth? You’re about to find out! Arrival in Santorini at 16:30- Departure from Santorini at 21:30 The spectacular sweeping scenery of Santorini will simply take your breath away. The romantic island is dotted with traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches that are clustered over the striking cliffs. It is instantly recognizable as one of the world’s most photographed picture-postcard landscapes. The charming villages provide a beguiling oasis of tranquility and beauty that will exceed all your expectations

ATHENS (CRUISE) – MYKONOS

Upon arrival into Athens an optional Athens City tour is available the tour includes a visit to the world- renowned Acropolis, with the ruins of the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Propylaea. Then, we ascend to Mars Hill, where Paul preached. Also, view the Agora (ancient marketplace, and former center of Athenian public life), the House of Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Presidential Palace. Return to the ship for lunch and cruise onto Mykonos.
That same afternoon, we arrive at the island of Mykonos with its whitewashed houses and winding streets. We are free to explore this picturesque island, startling white against the multi-hued sunset. Dinner and overnight aboard our ship.

KUSADASI

After breakfast on board, we disembark in Kusadasi and transfer to the airport for our flight home.

From our gallery

Overview

Our next adventures will take us to Turkey and the Greek Islands, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like more information or if there’s anything I can assist you with. I look forward to catching up soon and potentially traveling together.

Itinerary

Depart USA

Arrive to Istanbul

Istanbul

days After the breakfast departure for full day tour “CLASSIC”: We will start by visiting the Hagia Sophia “Divine Wisdom”, it is unquestionably one of the most fantastic buildings of all times. It was built by Constantine the Great and rebuilt by Justinian in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters from the ground, with a diameter of 31 meters. During the Ottoman Empire it was converted into a mosque and over time minarets were added. Then, visit Blue Mosque, which was built in 1609 during the Sultanate of Ahmet, famous for its blue tiles and six minarets. We will continue visiting the old Hippodrome that belongs to the Byzantine era, which was the center of civil activity in the country and where not only horse races and gladiatorial combats were held, but also celebrations in honor of the Emperor. Today it preserves the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column and the Fountain of Emperor William. Then, we will explore the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace complex includes lavish courtyards, gardens, and buildings showcasing exquisite architecture and artifacts. Highlights include the Imperial Treasury, the Harem, and the Sacred Relics. Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it offers a vast array of goods, from spices and sweets to jewelry, textiles, and traditional crafts. Overnight. (B/D)

Istanbul (free day)

After your included breakfast the rest of the day is at leisure, perhaps shop at the Grand Bazaar (B.)

Istanbul – Cappadocia

Breakfast at hotel. Check-out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight. Arrive in Kayseri and drive to Cappadocia for approximately 1 hour with visits on your way to the hotel in Cappadocia. Along the drive to the heart of Cappadocia, your guide will explain about the history & unique geology of the area. The first stop is at the famous Devrent Valley with some of the most spectacular rock formations. Here the hoodoos have eroded naturally to form interesting shapes…including the well-known camel rock that stands at the front of the valley. The next stop is the Zelve-Pasabag valley where the iconic Fairy Chimneys dot the landscape. This is the perfect location for your guide to explain how the unique landscapes were formed as you can still see the newly forming fairy chimneys in various stages of erosion many have caves and chapels or churches located inside. The Pasabag (or Monk’s) Valley has a rich & fascinating history and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and fresh air while walking among the different rock formations. Free time for lunch. At the end of the valley visits, you will transfer to your hotel. Optional Turkish night show at a local restaurant. (B/D)

Cappadocia

Cappadocia – Konya

577 Chestnut Ridge Road, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
855-784-7687 Fax: 201-829-9235

Konya – Pamukkale

Pamukkale – Ephesus

Izmir & Departure

Izmir & Departure Transfer to Kusadasi pier or to Izmir airport for home flight. End of our services. (B)

OPTION EXTENSION 4-Day Cruise

KUSADASI – PATMOS

Board our ship for lunch then cruise the Greek Island of Patmos, The lovely island of Patmos is a UNESCO World Heritage Monument. Our panoramic excursion begins in the port of Skala, heading to the centre of the island and the capital of Chora. Here we see the Monastery of St John the Evangelist and visit the Grotto of the Apocalypse. This is where, according to the biblical account, Jesus spoke to John and told him of the Apocalypse. It is mentioned in the Book of Revelation, the last book of the Christian Bible. It’s no surprise then that many people make their way to Patmos each year for pilgrimage. In the central area of Chora we find the silent windmills which stand sentry-like over the capital. Our tour continues as we head to some of the more desolate landscapes of the island, typical of the Dodecanese. Rocky hills, barren soil and promontories jutting into the sea creating dozens of coves and bays making up an intricate coastline. Here you might reflect on the legend of how the island lay at the bottom of the sea and how Zeus was prevailed upon to allow it to rise from the water. Which he did! (B.L.D.)

RHODES

ACROPOLIS OF LINDOS AND THE CITADEL OF THE KNIGHTS

Let’s begin in unusual fashion, with what you won’t see in Rhodes. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World once proudly stood here. He was the Colossus of Rhodes and is of course long departed, probably destroyed by an earthquake. Nevertheless as you arrive on this wonderful, historic island, you may just be able to imagine this statue of the Greek sun-god Helios in 280BC, standing 100 feet tall in celebration of Rhodes’ victory over Cyprus. The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes has a compelling back story and there are still remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St John during the Crusades. So while the Colossus may not be there, you will be wowed by the many historical sites. We travel first to Lindos, about 55km from Rhodes Town and high above the village sits the impressive Acropolis of Lindos with the Doric Temple of Athena, built in 300 BC. Captains’ mansions constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries are dotted here and there and in the heart of Lindos is the Church of the Virgin Mary with lovely frescoes from the 15th Century. Back in Rhodes is where we are really immersed in the history of the island in the Knights’ Quarter. We stroll through Gate d’Amboise to walk along the Street of the Knights and see where they lived, separated according to Order, their crests still visible today. We will also see (outside) the imposing Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a medieval castle also known as the Kastello. It’s one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece. The Byzantine citadel was built in the 7th Century, the palace itself in the fourteenth. Where the palace sits today could well have been the spot where once stood the Colossus according to recent studies. Either way, this tour takes us into the heart of the fascinating history of Rhodes. (B.L.D.)

HERAKLION (CRETE) – SANTORINI

MINOAN PALACE OF KNOSSOS – 1ST EUROPEAN CIVILIZATION (Crete)

The ancient city of Knossos, near Crete’s capital Heraklion, was the place that ‘gave birth’ to the very first civilisation of Europe, the Minoans. So we can say with some certainty it is Europe’s oldest city. Our excursion will open up the world of the Minoans as we visit one of the continent’s most important archaeological treasures. The first excavations were undertaken in the 1870s by Minos Kalokairinos, a Cretan himself. A few decades later in the early 1900s, more work by Sir Arthur Evans from Britain brought to the world’s attention the full impressive scale of the Palace of Knossos, according to legend the residence of wise King Minos. We will be able to explore the large Central Court, the wonderful Throne Room, the imposing Grand Staircase and see the fresco of the ‘Prince of the Lilies.’ As you stroll through the palace apartments and view the archaeological finds, we think you will be just a little in awe of the rich cultural heritage of the Minoan civilisation. You will undoubtedly hear the Cretan legend of the Minotaur, half man, half bull who lived in the Labyrinth and was slain by Theseus. But that’s another story. Exploring from room to room we will relive time in the Hall of the Royal Guard and the King’s Chamber, hearing about the extraordinary rule of King Minos. Return to the ship for lunch and cruise to Sanotrini.

SPECTACULAR OIA VILLAGE PERCHED ON THE CALDERA RIM (Santorini)

If you are a first time visitor to Santorini she will take your breath away. And even if you are a regular visitor, with her soaring landscapes and whitewashed houses she will still do that every time. She is regularly described as one of the most beautiful places on the planet. There are plenty of magic moments on our excursion. One of the greatest spectacles is Oia village perched on the rim of the Caldera, the remains of a volcanic eruption. Santorini is a ring of rock around the sea. Think of it as the rim of an old volcano. First we head to Megalochori, one of the most authentic and unspoiled villages on the island, retaining its distinctive architecture, character and charm. Our trip continues eastwards through a number of traditional communities like Firostefani and Imerovigli until we arrive at Oia. On our journey we will have had the lace-like caldera to our west, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea and Nea Kameni and an incredible, unsurpassable panoramic view. There is plenty of time in Oia to explore, stroll the marble-paved alleys, visit the adorable shops and capture the moments on camera. Admire the traditional buildings carved into the rocks and the unusual captain’s manors, the settlement of Ammoudi at the foot of the caldera. Return to the ship for dinner and live entertainment (B.L.D.)

ATHENS – USA

After breakfast on board you will disembark and be greated by your Perillo Tours representtavie transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)

2nd OPTIONAL EXTENSION

ATHENS

ATHENS CITY TOUR

After breakfast on board you will disembark and be greated by your Perillo Tours representative transfer to begin your Athens City tour.

After breakfast onboard our ship we will disembark where our private motor coach awaits us to begin our private Athens City Tour. Today we explore Athens and visit to the legendary Acropolis. We see the chief jewel of the Acropolis – the Parthenon, the Temple of Winged Victory, the Propylea and the Erechteum with its peerless Porch of Maidens. Beneath the Acropolis is the Areopagus or Mars Hill. After, check into your hotel, the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. (B)

From our gallery

ATHENS

After your included breakfast the rest of the day is at leisure. Optional day tours are available. (B)

ATHENS – USA

After breakfast transfer to teh airport for your flight home. (B))