Greek Island Adventure with Istanbul

Greek Island Adventure with Istanbul

11 Days
From

$3995

$3797

Greek Island Adventure with Istanbul

11 Days

Visiting: Arrive In Athens, Greece, Athens, Heraklion, Crete, Naxos, Paros, Istanbul, Turkey, Europe

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

RNT-2025

From: $3995 $3797 Operator discount: -$198

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Calling all adventurous spirits to embark on an odyssey and discover breathtaking sights and ancient legends. Begin where it all began, the ancient city of Athens where the Panathenaic Stadium and the Acropolis proudly preside and where the spirit of athletes and gods, philosophers and poets still fill the air with legendary tales. Set sights on the sea with visits to the islands of Crete, Naxos, and Paros to unveil the mysteries, myths, and marvelous history that awaits you, along with idyllic villages, pristine shores and so much more! You’ll find plenty of island time to wine, dine, and dream in sidewalk cafés and tavernas, creating a few legendary memories of your own. Your tour of Greece and Turkey continues to Istanbul to behold the bold beauty of sacred Byzantine architecture in Istanbul’s mosques and palaces is complemented by the warm people who welcome us to share in the traditions and tastes (think Turkish coffee & Turkish Delight!) in this gateway to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean.

Places You'll See

Stanley Hotel

Galaxy Hotel Iraklio

Naxos Palace

Narges

Titanic City Taksim

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Athens,Greece

Location: Arrive In Athens, Greece

Welcome to Athens! At 6 pm, meet your Globus Host and travel companions for a welcome drink.
ARRIVE IN ATHENS, GREECE Welcome to Athens! At 6 pm, meet your Globus Host and travel companions for a welcome drink.

ATHENS-STREET-SCENE.jpg

Day 2: Athens,Heraklion,Crete

Location: Athens, Heraklion, Crete

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


ATHENS–HERAKLION, CRETE Marvels & Myths ATHENS Guided sightseeing includes a visit to the Acropolis and a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium. Later fly to the island of Crete.
HERAKLION This evening enjoy 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.

CRETE.jpg

Day 3: Heraklion

Location: Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast


HERAKLION Cultural Capital HERAKLION Guided walking tour includes sights of the Venetian Walls, St. Minas Cathedral, and the Church of St. Titus. [LF] Taste a traditional bougatsa pastry. (B)

LOCAL FAVORITE
SIGHTS & BITES The bustling capital of Crete boasts over 3000 years of history and multi-cultural influences. While walking along its narrow streets see the most famous historic and cultural sites. Join the locals and taste a traditional bougatsa one of the most popular Greek sweet treats.

HERAKLION-HARBOR.jpg

Day 4: Heraklion,Naxos

Location: Heraklion, Naxos

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


HERAKLION–NAXOS Tempting Traditions Take a high-speed ferry to the island of Naxos
NAXOS Guided sightseeing to see the highlights of Naxos with its cobblestone alleys and Venetian castles. Taste the famous citrus spoon dessert at a local kafenio (cafè). (B,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES The “glykó tou koutalioú” or “sweet of the spoon” comes from an old Arabic custom that was later adopted by the Byzantines. A gesture of hospitality offered to welcome guests. They are what the name suggests, a dessert served on a spoon. Normally made from fruit, the concept may sound simple, but there is a lot of pride and tradition involved; recipes are handed down through the generations together with the special presentation silverware.

NAXOS.jpg

Day 5: Naxos

Location: Naxos

Meals Included: Breakfast


NAXOS Mediterranean Magic NAXOS Day at Leisure. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE of this lush green island. Stroll the charming streets shopping for souvenirs; sample the locally produced olives, grapes, figs, and citrus fruit. Discover more of the ancient Greek ruins; or head to the beach for a refreshing dip in the sparkling waters of the Aegean!

NAXOS-OLIVES.jpg

Day 6: Naxos,Paros

Location: Naxos, Paros

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner


NAXOS–PAROS Sun, Sand & Sea Take a short ride on a high-speed ferry to the island of Paros
PAROS Guided sightseeing of the highlights feature a visit to the Panagia Ekatontapiliani the “Church of a Hundred Doors.” This evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Historically known for its fine white marble, used to construct some of the most important Greek structures, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Paros nowadays captures the imagination as an idyllic Greek island - dotted with traditional villages, framed by stunning beaches, and surrounded by pristine waters.

PAROS.jpg

Day 7: Paros,Athens

Location: Paros, Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Return to Athens by ferry. ATHENS Later today enjoy free time in the city.
PAROS–ATHENS Back to Future of Civilization Return to Athens by ferry.
ATHENS Later today enjoy free time in the city. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with countless ways to enjoy free time in the birthplace of democracy, arts, science, and the philosophy of western civilization! Explore the urban landscapes and lively restaurants in this historic capital and enjoy the sunny slopes of this iconic city. Stroll in the shadow of the Acropolis in the village atmosphere of Plaka. Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets to browse jewelry stores and ceramics shops, then linger in a sidewalk café or taverna to celebrate your Greek adventure.

ATHENS-CARYATUD-PORCH.jpg

Day 8: Athens,Istanbul,Turkey

Location: Athens, Istanbul, Turkey

Meals Included: Breakfast


ATHENS–ISTANBUL, TURKEY East meets West ATHENS Fly to Istanbul.
ISTANBUL Visit the Spice Market and taste authentic Turkish Delight. Later admire the view during a cruise on the Bosphorus River. (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.


ATHENS-CAFE.jpg

Day 9: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

ISTANBUL This morning your guided sightseeing includes visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar. This afternoon and evening free time to explore more of this incredible city.
ISTANBUL The City on Seven Hills ISTANBUL This morning your guided sightseeing includes visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar. This afternoon and evening free time to explore more of this incredible city. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARCHITECTURAL WONDER
Sometimes referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World, mainly due to its magnificent dome, the Hagia Sofia hasn’t had it easy. Since it was first constructed back in the 4th century, it has been destroyed by riots and damaged by an earthquake. Starting out as a Basilica during the times of the Roman Empire, it has also been a mosque and a museum.

Day 10: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

ISTANBUL Enjoy a free day to explore more of Istanbul.
ISTANBUL Inspired Istanbul ISTANBUL Enjoy a free day to explore more of Istanbul. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE of Istanbul at the Basilica Cistern, also known locally as “the sunken palace,” is the underground cistern built during the Byzantine Empire to supply water to parts of the then city of Constantinople. An incredible structure with 336 pillars holding up a magnificent, vaulted ceiling over an artificial freshwater lake. It can be classed as an early example of recycling as the builders made use of stone structures from earlier temples – one of the most famous “recycled stones,” that can still be seen, is the upside-down head of Medusa.

Day 11: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

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. Guests are required to manage their own luggage when embarking and disembarking the ferry portions of this tour.

UNESCO Sites

Acropolis Athens|Historic Centre of Istanbul

Accommodation

Athens:Stanley Hotel
Heraklion:Galaxy Hotel Iraklio
Naxos:Naxos Palace
Paros:Narges
Istanbul:Titanic City Taksim

Check out our Q&As

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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Operator discount: -$198

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Operator discount: -$198

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Operator discount: -$264

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$4390 $4126

Operator discount: -$264

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$4390 $4126

Operator discount: -$264

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$4403 $4140

Operator discount: -$264

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May 22, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026
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Operator discount: -$264

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May 29, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$4456 $4192

Operator discount: -$264

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Jun 05, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$4456 $4192

Operator discount: -$264

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$4482 $4219

Operator discount: -$264

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Jun 19, 2026 - Jun 29, 2026
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Operator discount: -$264

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$4509 $4245

Operator discount: -$264

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Operator discount: -$264

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$4509 $4245

Operator discount: -$264

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$4575 $4311

Operator discount: -$264

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Aug 28, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026
$4482 $4219

Operator discount: -$264

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Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 14, 2026
$4482 $4219

Operator discount: -$264

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Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026
$4482 $4219

Operator discount: -$264

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Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026
$4482 $4219

Operator discount: -$264

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Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026
$4482 $4219

Operator discount: -$264

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Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
$4192 $3929

Operator discount: -$264

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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