Athens, Islands and Istanbul Adventure
10 Days
from
$2,620
to
$2,890
per person*
Highlights:
Greece
(Athens, Mykonos, Santorini)
,
Turkey
(Istanbul)
Trip Start/End:
Athens
/
Istanbul
Explore two amazing Mediterranean cities and two gorgeous islands. Start your tour in Athens and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the streets, the Plaka area and of course the famed Acropolis. Start exploring the beauty of the Greek islands with Mykonos and an optional visit to nearby Delos. Continue your tour with Santorini, one of the most stunning Greek islands. Enjoy exploring the villages, visiting the volcano or watching the sunset from Oia. From there, transfer to Istanbul and spend your final days seeing famous Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar or Bosphorus as either private or shared tours. Enjoy worry-free travel with the 24/7 support and the local expertise that we provide.
Optional: Extend your tour by adding a visit to the ancient sites of Delphi, Meteora or more islands such as Paros, Crete or Rhodes.
Only available April to October.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Athens
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Welcome Package
- Lunch (not included)
- Self-Guided - Afternoon at leisure
- Dinner (not included)
| Athenian Callirhoe (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Athens
| - Private - 1/2 Day City Tour with Acropolis (AM) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Optional: Athens by night (with Dinner)
| Athenian Callirhoe (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Plaka (3*) (standard)
|
- Day 3
- Athens - Piraeus - Mykonos
| - Transfer - Private - Port - Vehicle/Driver
- Ferry - Piraeus - Mykonos [2.5 hrs] - Highspeed - Economy
- Lunch (not included)
- Transfer - Private - Port (all areas except Kalafatis, Elia, K. Livadi, Ano Mera, Agrari, Panormos, Paranga, Paradise) - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Yiannaki (4*)
Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Mykonos
| - Transfer - Private - Port (all areas except Kalafatis, Elia, K. Livadi, Ano Mera, Agrari, Panormos, Paranga, Paradise) - Vehicle/Driver
- Shared - Delos Tour (3hrs) - Boat/Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Transfer - Private - Port (all areas except Kalafatis, Elia, K. Livadi, Ano Mera, Agrari, Panormos, Paranga, Paradise) - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Yiannaki (4*)
Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Porto (4*) (classic sea view)
|
- Day 5
- Mykonos - Santorini
| - Transfer - Private - Port (all areas except Kalafatis, Elia, K. Livadi, Ano Mera, Agrari, Panormos, Paranga, Paradise) - Vehicle/Driver
- Ferry - Mykonos - Thira [2.5 hrs] - Highspeed - Economy
- Lunch (not included)
- Transfer - Private - Port (all areas except Oia) - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| El Greco (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Santorini
| - Shared - Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia, Sunset in Oia (12 hrs) - Boat/Coach/Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| El Greco (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Santorini - Istanbul
| - Transfer - Private - Airport (all areas except Oia) - Vehicle/Driver
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Welcome Package
| Ottoman Imperial (4*)
Premium (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Istanbul
| - Private - St. Sophia Church, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Ottoman Imperial (4*)
Premium (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Istanbul
| - Shared - Bosphorus Tour & Cruise (with Lunch) - Coach/Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Ottoman Imperial (4*)
Premium (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Istanbul
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Athens
The Athenia Callirhoe Exterior
Day 1: Athens
Enjoy your private airport transfer today.
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, ferry tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure as you relax at your hotel or enjoy the city sites.
Accommodation: Athenian Callirhoe (4*) A unique 4 star superior Boutique Hotel in the heart of Athens City where style and comfort are happily coupled to offer a pleasant stay with the finest accommodation and delightful culinary experiences.
You will discover a distinctive building with elegant urban interior design, enjoy the very best in luxury and service, and entice yourself with our creative Mediterranean and International cuisine while being spoiled with the 'little things' a guest needs to make one feel at home.
The main landmarks of Athens
Zea
Day 2: Athens
This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Our expert guides take you to see the center of the city, Constitution Square(Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier and the NationalLibrary .Driving down Herod Atticus street, you will see the Evzones in their picturesque uniform and the Presidential Palace .On your way to the Acropolis you will see the Hadrian's Arch , visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus and you will make a short stop at the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of the modern era were held in 1896. On the Acropolis visit the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea , the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally ' the harmony between material and spirit ', the monument that 'puts order in mind', the Parthenon.
This enchanting evening tour commences with a scenic drive to Piraeus, 'the place over the passage', inhabited since the 26th century BC. Visit its natural harbors, such as lively Zea with its busy yacht marina and tiny Mikrolimano, one of the most picturesque corners of Piraeus. Journey to Plaka, the charming historical neighborhood of Athens, clustered around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis, incorporating labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture. The ideal atmosphere for your traditional dinner, enjoy the rest of your evening in a vibrant Greek tavern alive with traditional folk music and dancers.
Accommodation: Athenian Callirhoe (4*) 
Mykonos
Yiannaki Hotel
Day 3: Athens - Piraeus - Mykonos
Enjoy a private port transfer in Athens with private vehicle and driver.
Enjoy a transfer by ferry to Mykonos. The duration takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Avail of a private port transfer with vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Yiannaki (4*) The Yiannaki Hotel (4*) Mykonos can be found in the Ornos settlement of Mykonos Island. The hotel is just about 200 meters away from the beach and offers a scenic view of the nearby Aegean Sea. Other close attractions include Paraportiani Church and Mykonos Town. The onsite restaurant is called Aleka’s and it serves Greek cuisine along with other international delicacies. All guests staying at the Yiannaki Hotel Mykonos can enjoy wonderful scenery on the provided balcony or terrace. There are 45 guestrooms on two stories. Other amenities include a pool bar, a seawater swimming pool with chaise lounge and umbrellas, a sauna, a fitness center, a playground and a TV lounge. Welcome drink free of charge.
Temple of Apollo
Day 4: Mykonos
Avail of a private port transfer with vehicle and driver.
The Delos Island archaeological sanctuary, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, is listed by Unesco as one of mankind's most important cultural and historical sites. Delos was a sacred island for Ancient Greeks and with the Delos oracle being second only to that of Delphi the island became the holiest place in the Aegean. As a result there grew a flourishing commercial town & harbor on Delos with a large population, temples, and open air theatre.The short boat trip and guided tour to this now uninhabited island of Delos, will give you some facts and a remarkable insight of the Hellenistic ruins dating from 300 B.C.
The tour of Delos Island takes approximately 3 hours and your guide will wander with you among the ancient temples (both Greek and Roman) including the Temple of Apollo. You'll see the mosaic floors of once grand villas, the famous Delos Lions, Cleopatra's house, the amphitheatre plus much more. The tour departs from Mykonos town and old port and takes 3 hours.
Avail of a private port transfer with vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Yiannaki (4*) 
Santorini
El Greco Hotel
Day 5: Mykonos - Santorini
Avail of a private port transfer with vehicle and driver.
Enjoy a transfer by ferry to Thira. The high speed ferry takes approx 2.5 hrs
Enjoy a private port transfer with vehicle and driver in Santorini.
Accommodation: El Greco (4*) The El Greco Hotel (4*) is located minutes away from the centre of the magnificent Fira town, the capital of the unique and beautiful Santorini. The traditional and colourful architecture found here enhances the spacious surroundings and add to the overall environment of leisure. Guests of El Greco are welcome by hospitable and personable staff that will cater to the need of all guests. El Greco is a well balanced establishment equally suitable for families due to its location and facilities and for couples due to its colourful reflection of charm. The nearest beach is 7km Monolithos, the black sandy beach of Kamari is 12km, and 14km from Perissa - the largest beach of Santorini island.
Santorini
Day 6: Santorini
The island Volcano, Hot Springs and Thirassia are all stops on this shared tour. Your tour begins with a coach transfer from your hotel to Athinios Port where a boat awaits your arrival. First stop on the cruise is to the isle of Nea Kameni, where you have the opportunity to climb to the crater top, taking around one hour and a half. Your next stop will be to the famous Hot Springs, considered to have healing powers. Continue your tour with Thirassia Island, where you have a few hours at your leisure. On the way back to your hotel, visit the village of Oia and watch the famous sunset.
Accommodation: El Greco (4*) 
Istanbul
Ottoman Imperial Hotel
Day 7: Santorini - Istanbul
Take a private airport transfer with vehicle and driver in Santorini.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
Airport transfer with your private car and driver.
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, plane tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.
Accommodation: Ottoman Imperial (4*) The Ottoman Imperial (4*) hotel will provide you with traditional Turkish hospitality, comfort, elegant premium service, an unbeatable view of Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultanahmet Square, as well as a blend of Ottoman and Istanbul cuisine. With its exquisitely furnished guest rooms reflecting Ottoman art, trend-setting restaurants and bars, extensive guest services and in-house amenities, the Ottoman Imperial responds to the needs of the most demanding leisure and business travellers.
St. Sophia Church
Day 8: Istanbul
Enjoy a privately guided full day tour of Istanbul and see the most important sights. Visit the St. Sophia Church, the pride and glory of the Byzantine architecture (excluding the Gallery floor); the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue tiles; Byzantine Hippodrome, where once chariot races were held; and the Grand Bazaar, world’s largest covered bazaar with 4000 shops. Visit Topkapi Palace, the famous residence of the Sultans (The Harem section is not included in the tour).
Accommodation: Ottoman Imperial (4*) 
Istanbul Skyline and Bosphorus View
Day 9: Istanbul
Enjoy a full day tour in a group setting. The guide will pick you up from your hotel. In the morning a visit to the Spice Market, where locals still shop for herbs and spices coming from all over the world. Cross the Bosphorus by driving through the Intercontinental Suspension Bridge to go over the Asian side of Istanbul. Visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the white marble summer residence of Ottoman Sultans, used in the 19th century. After lunch, enjoy a cruise by boat on the Bosphorus, the unique winding strait separating two continents. (order of visits can change)
Accommodation: Ottoman Imperial (4*) Day 10: Istanbul
Airport transfer with your private car and driver.
Accommodation: Depart Depart from Istanbul airport - end of itinerary.
Accommodations
- The Athenia Callirhoe Exterior
Athenian Callirhoe (4*) - Athens
A unique 4 star superior Boutique Hotel in the heart of Athens City where style and comfort are happily coupled to offer a pleasant stay with the finest accommodation and delightful culinary experiences.
You will discover a distinctive building with elegant urban interior design, enjoy the very best in luxury and service, and entice yourself with our creative Mediterranean and International cuisine while being spoiled with the 'little things' a guest needs to make one feel at home.
Superior Room
Yiannaki (4*) - Mykonos
The Yiannaki Hotel (4*) Mykonos can be found in the Ornos settlement of Mykonos Island. The hotel is just about 200 meters away from the beach and offers a scenic view of the nearby Aegean Sea. Other close attractions include Paraportiani Church and Mykonos Town. The onsite restaurant is called Aleka’s and it serves Greek cuisine along with other international delicacies. All guests staying at the Yiannaki Hotel Mykonos can enjoy wonderful scenery on the provided balcony or terrace. There are 45 guestrooms on two stories. Other amenities include a pool bar, a seawater swimming pool with chaise lounge and umbrellas, a sauna, a fitness center, a playground and a TV lounge. Welcome drink free of charge.
- El Greco Hotel
El Greco (4*) - Santorini
The El Greco Hotel (4*) is located minutes away from the centre of the magnificent Fira town, the capital of the unique and beautiful Santorini. The traditional and colourful architecture found here enhances the spacious surroundings and add to the overall environment of leisure. Guests of El Greco are welcome by hospitable and personable staff that will cater to the need of all guests. El Greco is a well balanced establishment equally suitable for families due to its location and facilities and for couples due to its colourful reflection of charm. The nearest beach is 7km Monolithos, the black sandy beach of Kamari is 12km, and 14km from Perissa - the largest beach of Santorini island.
- Ottoman Imperial Hotel
Ottoman Imperial (4*) - Istanbul
The Ottoman Imperial (4*) hotel will provide you with traditional Turkish hospitality, comfort, elegant premium service, an unbeatable view of Hagia Sophia Museum and Sultanahmet Square, as well as a blend of Ottoman and Istanbul cuisine. With its exquisitely furnished guest rooms reflecting Ottoman art, trend-setting restaurants and bars, extensive guest services and in-house amenities, the Ottoman Imperial responds to the needs of the most demanding leisure and business travellers.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Greece
VISA/PASSPORT
Greece is a party to the Schengen agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter Greece for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Greece for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/greece.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Athens.
Government: Republic.
Language: Greek (Ellenika). Most people connected with tourism and those of a younger generation will speak some English, French, German or Italian.
Religion: 98% Greek Orthodox, with Muslim, Roman Catholic and Jewish minorities.
Time: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used.
Telephone: Country code +30, (plus 210 for Athens, 2310 for Thessaloniki and 2810 for Heraklion)
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is excellent.
Internet: Cafes are available in the main cities, including Athens, Thessaloniki and the islands of Crete, Kos, Mykonos and Rhodes.
Travel tips of Turkey
VISA/PASSPORT
A passport and visa are required for both US and Canadian citizens. Currently, holders of all types of passports, if they are traveling as tourists, can purchase a 90-day sticker visa at the port of entry for approximately USD$20 cash. Visas san also be obtained prior to arrival for approximately $75. Processing generally takes 3 working days. Travelers arriving by cruise ship for a day trip to Turkey do not require a visa if they are not staying on shore overnight.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Turkey for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/turkey.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Ankara.
Government: Republic since 1923.
Language: Turkish. Kurdish is also spoken by a minority in the southeast. French, German and English are widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas.
Religion: Muslim, mostly Sunni, with a very small Christian minority. Turkey is a secular state which guarantees complete freedom of worship to non-Muslims.
Time: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz.
Telephone: Country code +90.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is mostly good, but can be patchy in some rural areas in eastern Turkey.
Internet: Internet cafes exist in main urban areas. Some restaurants and hotels have Wi-Fi Internet access.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
Stay in the know: Subscribe to our newsletter to have our hand-picked trips & specials delivered to you!