Discover the historic capitals and hidden gems of Turkey and Greece, as well as the beautiful Aegean Sea in between. From the sparkling white buildings of Santorini to the superb sandstone formations of Cappadocia, our journey highlights the diversity of these stunning countries, and we'll be able to enjoy a relaxing cruise while we're away.
Fly to the Turkish capital of Istanbul, where we’ll stay overnight before flying to join our ship in Kusadasi, exploring the stunning Aegean Sea on our three night cruise with a fantastic all inclusive package.
Trip highlights
- Stay on board the fantastic Celestyal Olympia cruise ship and make the most of the all inclusive package
- Enjoy stays in excellent 5 star hotels
- Marvel at the Aegean scenery on our cruise, seeing Patmos, Crete, Mykonos and Santorini
- Explore the ancient cities of Athens and Istanbul
- See the fascinating sites of Pamukkale and Cappadocia
Day One: UK to Istanbul
Fly to Istanbul where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Depending on the time of your flight there may be opportunity to join an optional sightseeing tour of the city. (D)
Day Two: Istanbul to Kusadasi to Patmos cruise
After breakfast you will be transferred to Ataturk Airport to catch you morning flight to Izmir. Upon our arrival in Izmir we will be transferred to Kusadasi to embark on 3 nights Cruise of the Aegean Islands. On board enjoy an all inclusive package and relax in style! Our first stop in the cruise will be Patmos, this island is known as the site of the apocalyptic revelations of St. John the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. (B,L,D)
Day Three: Crete & Santorini cruise
This morning we arrive to Heraklion on Crete, is just three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Why not join our optional shore excursion to this Minoan Palace? The next island that will visit will be Santorini perhaps the most breath-taking of all the Greek Islands, with its white-washed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques. (B,L,D)
Day Four: Athens & Mykonos cruise
We arrive to Piraeus, the port city of Athens, a vibrant city where old and new co-exist. The majestic Parthenon rises above the city, its ancient glory still visible in the time-worn Stone. The last island of the cruise will be Mykonos, hundreds of tiny chapels dot this blue and white-washed island with its beautiful windmills. (B,L,D)
Day Five: Kusadasi to Pamukkale
We disembark this morning and proceed to the vast ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus. Once in the ancient city itself we will explore this ancient Roman city and visit the Library of Celcius, Temple of Hadrian, the Theatre and Odeon. After lunch continue to Pamukkale “the Cotton Castle” with its snow-white terraces formed by thermal waters cascading down the hillside. Visit the ruins of Hierapolis with its famous Necropolis, the Basilica, Theatre and Plutonium. (B,L,D)
Day Six: Pamukkale to Cappodocia
After an early breakfast we set off for Cappadocia, with a visit to the Sultanhan Caravansarai on the way. Following lunch in Konya we will visit the Mausoleum, Museum and Monastery Complex dedicated to Mevlana Celalettin Rumi, the founder of the mystical order often referred to as the “Whirling Dervishes”. Setting out once again we will enjoy our panoramic view of Cappadocia as we reach that strange and mystifying landscape. (B,L,D)
Day Seven: Cappodocia to Istanbul
After breakfast we set off on a full day excursion that includes lunch. We begin our explorations of the famous and intriguing valley of Cappadocia, a unique region in which nature has created an incredibly strange and colourful world of cones, columns and needles that were shaped by the wind and water erosion of the area’s volcanic tuff. After the tour we will continue to Kayseri Airport to catch our flight to Istanbul. (B,L,D)
Day Eight: Istanbul to UK
After breakfast we set off back to the airport, You'll then depart back to your chosen UK airport. (B)
Agent for Shearings , ABTA protected tour operator, ABTA V6468. Prices are from prices, per person based on 2 adults sharing on the 8 day Delights of Turkey & Greek Island Cruise with meals included as described. Price includes economy flights as stated departing from Manchester on 27 September 2019 and includes all applicable taxes & fuel surcharges. Details are correct at the time of print and are subject to change and limited availability. Price shown includes all advertised savings and the inclusions as shown. Operator terms & conditions apply. Holiday code AGTRAGR