Welcome to Europamundo! We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. In the afternoon, you’ll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.

IMPORTANT:
-Please note that hotel check-in time is usually at 02:00 p.m. If you require earlier room availability, consider booking an additional night at the beginning of your trip.
-If you requested additional nights, your room will be ready upon arrival at the hotel, but your trip guide will only contact you when the included activities begin. At the reception, you will find an information board with our staff’s telephone number and hours of assistance. Until then, you have free time to enjoy at your leisure. The hotel staff can assist you with any information you need.
-During your trip, your guide may offer optional activities. If these activities are available on the Europamundo app or through your "My Trip" link, we strongly recommend booking them as early as possible to ensure availability. Waiting until the last minute may result in missed opportunities due to limited tickets, bus seats, or other factors.

Note: The schedules provided in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust them as needed to enhance the trip experience.

Istanbul

08:00 a.m. - We’ll start the day with a panoramic tour of this impressive city, a “bridge” between Europe and Asia, both geographically and culturally. Our tour includes a visit to the Süleymaniye Mosque (the largest in Istanbul), and we’ll see the city walls, the Golden Horn, and the bustling fishing district, along with a chance to admire the exterior of Hagia Sophia. The afternoon is free for you to explore this city that spans two continents.

07:30 p.m. - As the afternoon draws to a close, we´ll arrange a transfer to Taksim, the city´s most vibrant commercial district. Here, you´ll have time to dine at one of the many restaurants. You can also enjoy a ride on the old tram that traverses the area or visit the nearby Galata Tower. We´ll return to the hotel around 10:00 p.m.

Istanbul - Ankara

Total distance covered: 450 km.

07:30 a.m. - After breakfast, we’ll visit to Topkapi Palace, the former administrative center of the Ottoman Empire, famous for its stunning courtyards and pavilions (admission included).

Afterward, we’ll embark on a boat trip on the Bosphorus (tickets included), lasting about two hours on a private boat exclusively for Europamundo travelers. This journey will take us through the strait that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara, dividing Istanbul between its European and Asian sides. We’ll enjoy the lively activity of the strait with its many boats. We’ll pass under the two bridges that link Europe and Asia and admire the Sultan’s palaces, traditional wooden houses, and Ottoman architecture.

We’ll then disembark on the Asian side for a leisurely walk through the Uskudar district, known for its impressive mosques like Yeni Valide and the Maiden’s Tower, as well as its tranquil streets. There will be free time for lunch.

03:00 p.m. - Departure from Istanbul. We’ll continue our journey from Uskudar on the Asian side toward the Anatolian Peninsula.
09:00 p.m. - Ankara. Dinner will be included.

Ankara - Hacibektas - Cappadocia

Total distance covered: 315 km.

Scenery: Dramatic lunar landscapes and stunning views of the Salt Lake.

Note: We’ll visit the mausoleum of Hacibektas, an intriguing pilgrimage site that few tourists get to see. Please wear appropriate clothing and show respect during the visit.

08:00 a.m. - After breakfast, we’ll include a tour of Ankara, the cosmopolitan capital of Turkey, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant cultural scene. The city boasts the State Opera and Ballet, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra, and numerous national theater companies. We’ll visit the impressive Mausoleum of Ataturk, the ancient Ankara Castle, which dates to the 8th century B.C. We’ll also include admission to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, offering insight into the various cultures that have left their mark on Turkey. By late morning, we’ll stop at a large shopping mall where you can choose from a variety of dining options at the food court.

01:30 p.m. - Departure from Ankara. We’ll travel through the arid regions of central Turkey on our way to Cappadocia, with a stop to photograph the striking Salt Lake.
05:30 p.m. - Arrival in Hacibektas, a key destination for religious tourism in Turkey. We’ll visit the mausoleum of Haci Bektas, a 13th-century Sufi mystic from Anatolia who emphasized humanism in his teachings. The sanctuary’s architecture and interior design beautifully reflect the rituals and symbols of Bektashism.

06:30 p.m. - Departure from Hacibektas.
07:30 p.m. - Arrival in Nevsehir/Avanos. Dinner will be included.

Cappadocia

Total distance covered: 75 km.

Scenery: Spectacular landscapes and charming villages.

Note: Comfortable footwear is recommended for today’s visits. The guide may adjust the schedule to help you experience each site when it´s less crowded.

Start your day with an optional early morning hot air balloon ride over the Cappadocia region—a breathtaking experience offered at dawn.

09:30 a.m. - Departure from Avanos/Nevsehir. We’ll head to the Göreme Valley, where admission is included to visit the incredible open-air museum, which features over 30 rock-cut churches, some adorned with stunning frescoes. Next, we’ll visit Uchisar and take a stroll through this Cappadocian village, where you can marvel at the 60-meter rock filled with cave dwellings. From there, we’ll continue to Kaymacli to explore its impressive underground city, with tunnels and catacombs built to shelter up to thirty thousand people. We’ll break for lunch afterward.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore Pasabag, also known as the Fairy Chimneys, and wander through this spectacular natural site. We’ll also visit a traditional jewelry workshop featuring stones native to the Cappadocia region, such as Onyx and Turquoise, including pieces once favored by the sultans during the Ottoman Empire.

06:00 p.m. - Return to the hotel. In the summer months, you can relax by the pool or take a stroll through the pleasant commercial town of Avanos/Nevsehir. Dinner will be included.

Cappadocia - Ihlara - Konya

Total distance covered: 290 km.

Scenery: We’ll continue through the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, followed by arid and flat regions.

Note: Comfortable shoes are a must today as we continue exploring Cappadocia. In Konya, we’ll visit sites that are considered sacred by the Dervish order, so please wear appropriate clothing.

07:30 a.m. - Departure from Nevsehir. We’ll travel along scenic, less-traveled roads, venturing into areas that aren’t as crowded with tourists.
09:45 a.m. - Ihlara canyon. We’ll enjoy the cooler air by the river as we explore churches carved into the canyon’s rocky walls.

11:45 a.m. - Departure from Ihlara canyon.
01:00 p.m. - Arrival at Sultanhan. Here, we’ll visit one of the most beautiful caravanserais, a magnificent structure that recalls the great camel caravans that once traveled these lands. You’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch.

02:45 p.m. - Departure from Sultanhan. We’ll pass lands with large herds and arid plains.
04:15 p.m. - Konya. We’ll visit the Mevlana Mausoleum, a sacred place for the Dervish order, a Sufi fraternity known for its whirling "trance" dances. Afterward, you might want to take a stroll through the lively bazaar. Dinner will be included.

In the evening, we recommend attending a dervish dance performance at the cultural center.

Konya - Egridir - Pamukkale

Total distance covered: 430 km.

Scenery: A mix of mountain landscapes and serene lakes, with a breathtaking view of the "cotton mountain" at the end of the day.

Notes: We recommend bringing shoes that are easy to take off and carry for walking in Pamukkale. If you’d like, pack a swimsuit to enjoy the thermal waters.

08:00 a.m. – Departure from Konya. We’ll continue our journey through the heart of Turkey.
11:15 a.m. - Egridir. You’ll have time for lunch and a stroll in this charming town, nestled by a lake of the same name, with ancient walls and mosques.

01:30 p.m. – Departure from Egridir.
04:15 p.m. - Pamukkale. Admission included. At the "cotton mountain," our coach will drop you off at the summit, where you can explore Roman-era ruins before descending on foot through the natural hot springs and baths. The sunset colors are truly spectacular. Our coach will pick you up at the base. Later, you’ll have time to relax in the hotel’s thermal pools. Dinner included.

Pamukkale - Ephesus - Kusadasi

Total distance covered: 225 km.

Scenery: Varied, with coastal views as we approach the end of the day.

Note: Comfortable shoes are recommended for the Ephesus visit.

08:30 a.m. – Departure from Pamukkale.
11:30 a.m. - Ephesus. We’ll explore an incredible complex of Roman ruins. Two thousand years ago, this city was home to a quarter of a million people. Our guided tour will include the House of the Virgin Mary, the Basilica of St. John, and the impressive Ephesus ancient city ruins (admission included). Free time for lunch after.

04:00 p.m. – Departure from Ephesus. We’ll continue toward the Aegean coast.
04:30 p.m. - Kusadasi. Arrival in this lively coastal town, bustling with shops and a vibrant nightlife. We’ll visit a leather goods gallery to learn about the region’s renowned lambskin garments. You’ll have free time to explore the bazaars and visit the castle. Dinner will be included.

Note: During the high season, from the beginning of June to the end of September, accommodation will be provided in a town near Kusadasi.

Kusadasi - Bodrum - Marmaris

Total distance covered: 320 km.

Scenery: Various beautiful sights over the Aegean Sea.

08:30 a.m. - Departure from Kusadasi.
10:00 a.m. - Lake Bafa. We’ll stop to take in its stunning natural beauty, rich history, mystical charm, and serene atmosphere. This is undoubtedly one of Turkey´s must-see natural wonders.

10:30 a.m.- Departure from Bafa Lake.
12:00 p.m. – Bodrum. Free time in this beautiful, fortified city of Greek origin. You can explore its impressive castle, wander through its lively streets bustling with tourists, or visit its marina. We’ll have some time for lunch.

03:00 p.m. – Departure from Bodrum.
05:30 p.m. - Marmaris. Arrival to another beautiful coastal tourist enclave, with its castle, pier and fountains. Dinner and accommodation.

Please note: On some occasions, especially during the summer, our accommodation will be in the nearby town of Mugla instead of Marmaris.

Marmaris - Rhodes

Notes:
-Remember that we’ll be entering Greece. On the ferry, please ensure you have your luggage and passport readily accessible.
-The ferry schedule between Rhodes and Marmaris is subject to frequent changes and does not operate daily (except during summer months). Therefore, this part of the itinerary may require adjustments.
-For groups of fewer than 10 people, visits to Rhodes may be conducted on a regular service with an alternative schedule, shared with passengers from other companies.

07:30 a.m. – Departure from the hotel to the ferry port. Border procedures.
09:15 a.m. – Departure on the fast ferry. The trip will last approximately one hour. Please note that the schedule may be subject to changes as per the above note.

10:15 a.m. – Rhodes. Border procedures to enter Greece. We’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of the remarkable walled city of Rhodes and its historic quarter, which reflects a rich tapestry of cultural influences—from Greek and Roman to Byzantine, Knights of Malta, Ottoman, and Italian. The guided tour will last approximately two hours with a local guide. Following the tour, we’ll transfer you to the hotel.

Free afternoon. We recommend enjoying the beaches or exploring this beautiful city at your leisure.

Rhodes - Heraklion

Total distance covered: 115 Km.

Scenery: Mediterranean landscapes and picturesque views over the sea.

Note: Direct flight schedules between Rhodes and Crete are limited and subject to change; sometimes the flight may occur on Friday morning or include a stopover in Athens.

09:00 a.m. – Departure from Rhodes city. Today, we’ll embark on an excursion to explore the rest of the island (included).
09:30 a.m. – Filerimos. We’ll explore its small monastery, set amidst stunning landscapes atop a hill.

10:15 a.m. – Departure from Filerimos.
11:30 a.m. – Lindos. We’ll arrive in this historic city boasting a medieval fortress and a Greek Acropolis overlooking the sea. We´ll take you by coach to St. Paul’s Bay, where tradition holds that the apostle arrived by sea in 51 A.D. to spread Christianity. This picturesque setting was also featured in the film "The Guns of Navarone." You can stroll through its charming, whitewashed streets, relax on one of its beaches, or opt for a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis.

03:00 p.m. – Departure from Lindos and return to Rhodes. Transfer to the airport according to flight schedule. Direct flight or flight with a stopover in Athens to the island of Crete. Arrival in Heraklion and transfer to the hotel.

Heraklion - Rethymno - Chania - Heraklion

Total distance: 145 km.

Scenery: Beautiful Mediterranean landscapes with views of mountains and the sea.

09:30 a.m. - Departure from Heraklion. Our route will follow the coastline, offering stunning sea views.
11:00 a.m. - Rethymno. Arrival in this beautiful coastal city of Venetian origin characterized by its medieval castle. You’ll have time to stroll through its historic center and enjoy lunch.

02:30 p.m. - Departure from Rethymno.
03:30 p.m. - Chania. Arrival in this captivating city boasting an impressive fortress and stately mansions. Throughout its history, Chania has been contested among Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks. Our guide will highlight the most beautiful points of interest, and you’ll have free time to explore the city.

07:00 p.m. - Departure from Chania and return to Heraklion.

Heraklion - Knossos - Agia Galini - Heraklion

Total distance covered: 180 km.

09:00 a.m. – Departure from Heraklion.
09:30 a.m. - Knossos. Our visit includes a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos, offering insights into the Minoan culture that gave rise to Greek civilization four thousand years ago.

11:45 a.m. - Departure from Knossos. We’ll travel through the island´s tall mountains, heading south towards the Libyan Sea.
01:30 p.m. - Agia Galini, a picturesque town with labyrinthine alleys, a charming fishing port, and bustling taverns. Enjoy free time to explore, have lunch, and perhaps take a swim in the sea.

06:30 p.m. - Departure from Agia Galini. Return journey to the capital of Crete.
08:00 p.m. - Heraklion. We recommend strolling through its lively historic center, brimming with activity and small restaurants.

Note: From November to April, due to the end of the summer season and business closures, we´ll visit the picturesque town of Matala instead of Agia Galini. Matala is renowned for its beautiful beach and unique landscapes of cliffs with carved caves.

Heraklion - Panagia Kera - Agios Nikolaos - Elounda - Spinalonga - Heraklion

Total distance covered: 180 km.

09:30 a.m. - Departure from Heraklion. We’ll journey to the east of the island, passing through coastal and mountainous landscapes.
11:00 a.m. - Panagia Kera. Located in a small village amidst a rich agricultural plain, we’ll visit the 13th-century church renowned for some of the best frescoes in Crete (admission included).

12:00 p.m. - Departure from Panagia Kera.
12:15 p.m. - Arrival in Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town with a natural port. You´ll have time for a walk and lunch.

02:30 p.m. - Departure from Agios Nikolaos.
03:00 p.m. - Arrival in Elounda, once a city-state and now a beautiful tourist enclave. Enjoy some leisure time for a stroll. Here, we’ll include a boat trip (either from Elounda or nearby port of Plaka) and admission to the Fortress of Spinalonga. This ancient Venetian fortress later served as a leprosarium for many years. The boat trip takes about 15 minutes each way, with time to explore the fortress before returning by boat. Afterwards, we´ll visit the picturesque coastal town of Plaka for coffee and a stroll.

06:00 p.m. - Departure from Plaka.
07:30 p.m. - Heraklion.

Heraklion - Santorini - Athens

Total distance covered: 50 km.

Note: The schedules and frequencies of the ferries for this day’s program will vary depending on the time of year. Sometimes, the journey from Santorini to Athens may be by plane.

Early in the morning, we´ll transfer to the port. Our ferry usually departs around 07:00 or 08:00 a.m. We travel on modern, high-speed ferries, so we should reach the island of Santorini in less than two hours.

Arrival in Santorini is scheduled for 08:50 a.m. (if the ferry leaves at 07:00) or 09:50 a.m. (if it leaves at 08:00). From there, we´ll travel by bus through breathtaking landscapes to Oia, unquestionably the most spectacular town on the island: lively white streets, breathtaking views of cliffs, remnants of a castle, and windmills. You´ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch.

Next, we´ll visit Fira, the island´s capital. Those interested can descend to the port either by cable car or by donkey and admire the cruise ships.

Later, we´ll proceed to the ferry port to board another high-speed ferry departing around 03:30 p.m. We should arrive in Athens just before midnight.

Important note: From November to mid-April, we won’t visit Santorini due to the suspension of the high-speed ferry service from Heraklion. During this period, we’ll travel from Heraklion to Athens by plane.

Athens

In the morning, we´ll embark on a panoramic tour of Athens. We´ll get to know the modern city, the Panathenaic Stadium and the Royal Palace. Afterward, you´ll have free time to explore on your own.

Note: If the number of participants is very limited, a "Hop-On/Hop-Off" bus ticket may be provided for exploring the city instead of a city tour.

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.

Note: Please be aware that the hotel check-out time is usually 10:00 a.m. You can leave your luggage in reception upon check-out, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. You can retrieve your luggage at your convenience later in the day. If you require additional time to use your room, we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your tour.