Custom Trip Plan
Destinations

Trip Ideas
Itineraries
Themes

About Us

1 800 344 5785

Exploring The Greek & Turkish Coasts of The Mediterranean

20 Days / 19 Nights

Athens, Heraklion, Rhodes, Fethiye, Bodrum, Izmir, Istanbul

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue
This 20-day itinerary across the Greek Islands and Turkey's Turquoise Coast is the ultimate Mediterranean adventure you've always dreamt of. Start your trip in Athens, the vibrant Greek capital, before you head to Crete and Rhodes, two of the largest and most impressive Greek Islands. A short ferry ride away, Turkey's Mediterranean Coasts awaits to show you around the charms of seaside towns like Fethiye, Bodrum, and Izmir. End your trip in one of the prettiest cities in the world, the multicultural dream that is Istanbul. One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, which includes all the necessary information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM card with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a wide selection of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
Route for Athens, Heraklion, Rhodes, Fethiye, Bodrum, Izmir, Istanbul tour

3 Nights in Athens

3 Nights in Athens

4 days in Athens
4 days in Athens

3 Nights in Athens

Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.

Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Athens

Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens

Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour

Explore Athens' Highlights

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the myths behind the greatest landmarks in Athens. Learn about Greek gods and heroes, and discover what really hides behind ancient myths. At the same time visit the best landmarks and sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis (Parthenon, theater of Dionysus, temple of Athena Nike, temple of Erechtheion, and the sanctuary of Asclepius), Olympian Zeus’ temple, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Hephaestus.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 4 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Athens

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Olive oil, vegetables, fish, and feta are key ingredients in Greek cuisine. Fresh vegetables, honey, fish, lamb, and cheese are added to create typically Greek flavors. Tzatziki, souvlaki, gyros, dolmathakia, spanakopita, loukoumades, authentic Greek yogurt, and amygdalota are just a few options to be enjoyed in local cafes and restaurants. We've picked some of the most delicious food tours for you to choose from.

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Private Tour

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Seeking an extraordinary Greek culinary experience to tease your senses? Follow an expert food guide on a quest to discover Athens by night, and experience exquisite Athenian delicacies. Enjoy the best views of Athens after dusk and explore sophisticated eateries to devour the finest of authentic Greek cuisine, including the best souvlaki in town! And to top it all off? A wine tasting focused on indigenous local varieties (plus ouzo!)


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 hours

Delicious Athens Food Small Group Tour

Delicious Athens Food Small Group Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Eat your way through Athens! Discover Greek flavors and their history, with a walk through some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, rarely visited by tourists. Taste olive oils, Greek cheeses, tsipouro drink, honey, souvlaki, tapenades, baklava, Greek coffee, sweets, and a variety of Greek tapas.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

The Great Eats and Streets Private Tour

The Great Eats and Streets Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Athens came together through a mixture of cultures across the centuries, and there’s still a lot of that history around, in the food as well as in the city's neighborhoods. This tour explores the city's complex heritage, and its effects on contemporary Greek culture and cuisine. 


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 5 - 6 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Heraklion by Airplane

From Athens to Heraklion the best option will be to take a flight on one of the low cost airlines. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:


Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

Heraklion by Air
We also offer the following excursions in Athens

Acropolis for Families Private Tour
Moderate2 hours
Ancient Corinth Private Tour with Transfer from Athens to Nafplio
Light6 hours
Ancient Corinth and Nemea Private Day Trip
Moderate9 hours
Athens Markets and Chronicles Small Group Tour
Light3 hours

3 Nights in Heraklion

3 Nights in Heraklion

4 days in Heraklion
4 days in Heraklion

3 Nights in Heraklion

Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.

Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Heraklion

Upon arrival to Heraklion airport, our driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Heraklion

Heraklion Bites and Sights Small Group Tour

Discover Crete's Capital

Included in your vacation package price.

Bypass the concrete and head straight for the heart of Heraklion. Hit the backstreets and hidden pathways, checking out the highlights, sampling local treats, and discovering the forces that combined to make Heraklion the city it is today. This tour will help you get to know the city not just as it is now, but also as it was centuries ago, uncovering remnants of occupations by the Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians, Turks, and, yes, pirates.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Heraklion

Knossos Palace, Archaeological Museum and City Food Private Tour

Step Back in Time at Knossos

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

The Minoan Palace of Knossos, one of Greece's most important and spectacular archaeological sites, is located close to Heraklion. The capital of the Minoan civilization when the Greeks were barely literate, this massive palace and city has been surprisingly well preserved. Knossos lives on in the stories of Daedalus and Icarus, and Theseus and the Minotaur within the Labyrinth. We recommend taking part in a guided tour, but if you're with kids download the site's mobile app, which has a series of audio stories about the place. After visiting Knossos, stop by the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which contains artifacts excavated from Minoan sites.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 6 hours

Day 7

Day 7 - Traveling to Rhodes by Airplane

From Heraklion to Rhodes, the best option will be to take a flight on one of the low-cost airlines. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival: Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. If you prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

We also offer the following excursions in Heraklion

Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour
Light4 hours
Minoan Paths for Wine Enthusiasts Private Tour
Light6-7 hours

3 Nights in Rhodes

3 Nights in Rhodes

4 days in Rhodes
4 days in Rhodes

3 Nights in Rhodes

The island of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, is steeped in 3,000 years of history, with a multifaceted character that over the centuries gained the reputation of a place of spiritual calm. Inside the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be transported back to the world of the Knights of the Order of Saint John. Let your imagination run free and the city’s atmosphere guide your steps to encountering an authentic experience inside one of Europe’s oldest medieval towns.

The island of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, is steeped in 3,000 years of history, with a multifaceted character that over the centuries gained the reputation of a place of spiritual calm. Inside the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be transported back to the world of the Knights of the Order of Saint John. Let your imagination run free and the city’s atmosphere guide your steps to encountering an authentic experience inside one of Europe’s oldest medieval towns.

Day 7

Day 7 - Arrival in Rhodes

Upon your arrival a driver will be waiting for you at the airport and take you to your accommodations.

Day 8

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Rhodes

Rhodes Island Full Day Private Tour

The Island of the Knights

Included in your vacation package price.

Today you'll enjoy a fantastic full day tour around the island, driving through the villages, including visits of several historical sites, such as Filerimos Acropolis, the ancient city of Kamiros and Profitis Elias Mountain. During a wine tasting learn all about, traditions, life in the island and details not mentioned in any book.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8 hours

Day 9

Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Rhodes

Visit the Acropolis of Lindos

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Above the modern village of Lindos approximately an hour drive from the town of Rhodes sits the Acropolis of Lindos, one of the most important archeological sites in Greece. Following the steep footpath from the village, you will encounter a ship carved into the rock in the 2nd century BC. At the top, the Temple of Athena Lindia, which was built in the 4th century BC, is recognizable for its Doric columns. The view from the Acropolis, set 381 feet above the sea, is breathtaking. Pro tip: don’t forget a hat and a bottle of water if visiting during the summer, as there is next to no shade! After your time of cultural exploration, head to Lindos Beach to cool down in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

Lindos Village & Kallithea Springs Half Day Private Tour

Lindos Village & Kallithea Springs Half Day Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Situated at the south-eastern tip of Rhodes island, the beautiful village of Lindos lays near a fantastic sandy beach, surrounded by hills hiding the village, protecting the place from the attacks of the pirates. On top of the small white and cubic houses stands the ancient Acropolis of Athina Lindia. This half-day private tour with an expert local guide will unlock the town's secrets for you.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 - 5 hours

Explore Lindos Private Hiking Tour

Explore Lindos Private Hiking Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Prepare to enjoy a beautiful hike through the old pine tree forest. Admire amazing panoramic views of “Navarone Bay” with its azure-colored water and dive into history in the ancient Acropolis of Lindos.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 6 hours

Day 10

Day 10 - Traveling to Fethiye by Ferry

Today you will be traveling from Rhodes to Fethiye by ferry. A driver will meet you at your accommodation in Rhodes and take you to the port. From there, you will take the ferry to Fethiye. The journey takes between one hour and a half and two hours, depending on the ferry.

We also offer the following excursions in Rhodes

4x4 Buggy Adventure Self-driving Group Tour
Easy3 hours
Amazing Sunset Hike Profitis Ilias Group Tour
Light5 hours
Day Cruise to Symi with a Swimming Stop at St. George Bay Group Tour
Light8 hours 30 minutes
Discover Lindos Sea Kayaking Full-day Small Group Tour
Moderate9 hours

2 Nights in Fethiye

2 Nights in Fethiye

3 days in Fethiye
3 days in Fethiye

2 Nights in Fethiye

While Fethiye is often just the departure point for travelers on their way off to explore the region, the city has a charm in its own right. With abundant sunshine, blooming bougainvillea, and easy access to the sea, Fethiye is a lovely place to stop if you want to experience the Turkish coast while still surrounded by the convenience of a major city. History, nature, and sea are all easily accessible from Fethiye, with constant bus connections and car transfers available. A diverse dining scene caters to the diverse clientele that passes through the city, and the Fethiye Museum collects artifacts that have been uncovered in the region.

While Fethiye is often just the departure point for travelers on their way off to explore the region, the city has a charm in its own right. With abundant sunshine, blooming bougainvillea, and easy access to the sea, Fethiye is a lovely place to stop if you want to experience the Turkish coast while still surrounded by the convenience of a major city. History, nature, and sea are all easily accessible from Fethiye, with constant bus connections and car transfers available. A diverse dining scene caters to the diverse clientele that passes through the city, and the Fethiye Museum collects artifacts that have been uncovered in the region.

Day 10

Day 10 - Arrival in Fethiye

Upon arrival at the port of Fethiye, you'll be driven to your accommodation.

Day 11

Day 11 - Your First Full Day in Fethiye

Catch some rays on Calis Beach

Suggestion to explore on your own

The most easily accessible beach in Fethiye is Calis Beach, a long and sandy beach in the city that’s a great place to sunbathe. The area around Calis Beach is lively, with bars and restaurants and souvenir shops all jostling for space. The beach is bustling, with umbrellas and lounging chairs available to rent for the day and calm turquoise water for swimming. The sunset views are particularly good from Calis Beach.

Catch some rays on Calis Beach

Day 12

Day 12 - Traveling to Bodrum by Private Transfer

A driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Fethiye and take you directly to Bodrum. The drive lasts about three hours and 30 minutes.

Bodrum by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Fethiye

12 Islands Group Boat Tour
Light8 hours
Dalyan Full Day Group Tour
Light10 hours 30 minutes
Dalyan Full Day Private Tour
Light10 hours 30 minutes
Fethiye and Ghost Town Private Tour
Light5 hours

2 Nights in Bodrum

2 Nights in Bodrum

3 days in Bodrum
3 days in Bodrum

2 Nights in Bodrum

Bodrum is one of the most popular seaside destinations on the Turkish Riviera, where sunbathers and yachts share space along the turquoise coastline. Ruled over the centuries by the Greeks, Romans, Persians, Crusaders, and Ottomans, among others, history is still visible throughout the Bodrum peninsula, including at the well-preserved Theater of Halicarnassus and the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the wonders of the ancient world. And yet, Bodrum is a thoroughly modern city, where the glitterati of Istanbul are as likely to be spotted as international beach lovers. With this kind of coastline, there is something here for everyone who loves the sea.

Bodrum is one of the most popular seaside destinations on the Turkish Riviera, where sunbathers and yachts share space along the turquoise coastline. Ruled over the centuries by the Greeks, Romans, Persians, Crusaders, and Ottomans, among others, history is still visible throughout the Bodrum peninsula, including at the well-preserved Theater of Halicarnassus and the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the wonders of the ancient world. And yet, Bodrum is a thoroughly modern city, where the glitterati of Istanbul are as likely to be spotted as international beach lovers. With this kind of coastline, there is something here for everyone who loves the sea.

Day 12

Day 12 - Arrival in Bodrum

Upon arrival in Bodrum, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

Day 13

Day 13 - Your First Full Day in Bodrum

Bodrum City Private Walking Tour

Bodrum in a Day

Included in your vacation package price.

Today you will explore the charming streets and the cosmopolitan marina in Bodrum, accompanied by your local guide, who will be there to answer all your questions and give you valuable insight into Bodrum. Apart from getting to know the city itself, you will also visit the Underwater Museum of Archeology and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Day 14

Day 14 - Traveling to Izmir by Private Transfer

A driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Bodrum and take you directly to Izmir. The journey lasts about three hours and 30 minutes.

Izmir by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Bodrum

Dalyan Private Full Day Tour
Light10 hours
Didyma, Miletus and Priene Cultural Private Full Day Tour
Moderate9 hours
Ephesus Private Tour
Moderate10 hours
Leleg Trekking Private Tour
Moderate3-4 hours

3 Nights in Izmir

3 Nights in Izmir

4 days in Izmir
4 days in Izmir

3 Nights in Izmir

Of Turkey’s three biggest cities, Izmir is the most relaxed, free from the politics of Ankara and the cultural vanguard of Istanbul. Instead, Izmir is a city that fits in comfortably to its Aegean locale. Known as Smyrna from the classical antiquity era until about 1930, Izmir brims with the history of the empires, settlements, and people who have passed through, while remaining a vibrant and ever-changing modern metropolis. Enjoy fresh Aegean cuisine at Izmir’s outdoor restaurants, where local olive oil, fresh herbs, and grilled fish are the stars of the show, and wanted around the market district at Kemeralti to haggle like a local.

Of Turkey’s three biggest cities, Izmir is the most relaxed, free from the politics of Ankara and the cultural vanguard of Istanbul. Instead, Izmir is a city that fits in comfortably to its Aegean locale. Known as Smyrna from the classical antiquity era until about 1930, Izmir brims with the history of the empires, settlements, and people who have passed through, while remaining a vibrant and ever-changing modern metropolis. Enjoy fresh Aegean cuisine at Izmir’s outdoor restaurants, where local olive oil, fresh herbs, and grilled fish are the stars of the show, and wanted around the market district at Kemeralti to haggle like a local.

Day 14

Day 14 - Arrival in Izmir

Upon arrival in Izmir, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

Day 15

Day 15 - Your First Full Day in Izmir

Izmir Old City Private Full Day Walking Tour

Getting To Know Izmir

Included in your vacation package price.

In the company of your local guide, you are taking a private tour of Izmir Old Town today. A city rich in history, Izmir has always been a significant cultural and commercial hub throughout the centuries. During this tour, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the nostalgic coastal city, learn about its history, visit its ancient ruins, and marvel at monuments that date back to various stages in Izmir's history.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8 hours 30 minutes

Day 16

Day 16 - Your Second Full Day in Izmir

Learning The Secrets of Ephesus

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

On your second day in Izmir, we recommend taking a day trip to nearby Ephesus, a splendid ancient city that is considered the best-preserved ancient Roman site in Turkey. There are more than 25 ancient buildings scattered across the impressive archaeological site of Ephesus, each of which served a different purpose, either commercial, administrative or religious. The Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and the Temple of Artemis are among the most magnificent buildings to admire in Ephesus. You can visit Ephesus on a group tour from Izmir. However, for a more in-depth and customizable experience, you can see Ephesus on a private day trip instead.

Classic Ephesus Group Tour

Classic Ephesus Group Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Join a group tour of one of the best-preserved Roman settlements in the Eastern Mediterranean. The ancient site of Ephesus will take you on a fascinating journey into the past. From the Odeon building, where the early democracy was established, to the Grand Theater, where gladiator fights used to take place, Ephesus offers a glimpse into life in the 2nd century AD. The ancient site also hosts the Church of Mary. As both a historical and spiritual destination, Ancient Ephesus is a mandatory stop on your Turkey itinerary.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8 hours 30 minutes

Classic Ephesus Private Tour

Classic Ephesus Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

A knowledgeable guide all to yourselves will show you around one of the best-preserved Roman settlements in the Eastern Mediterranean during a private tour of the ancient site of Ephesus. From the Odeon building, where the early democracy was established, to the Grand Theater, where gladiator fights used to take place, Ephesus offers a glimpse into life in the 2nd century AD. The ancient site also hosts the Church of Mary. As both a historical and spiritual destination, Ancient Ephesus is a mandatory stop on your Turkey itinerary.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 8 hours 30 minutes

Day 17

Day 17 - Traveling to Istanbul by Private Transfer

A driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Izmir and take you to Istanbul. On the way, you will make a stop in Pergamon, a rich and powerful Ancient Greek city that has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites since 2014. The drive lasts about eight hours and a half, including the stop in Pergamon.

Istanbul by Private Transfer with a stop in Pergamon
We also offer the following excursions in Izmir

Aegean Gems (Priene - Miletos - Didyma) Full Day Group Tour
Light7 hours 30 minutes
Aegean Gems (Priene - Miletos - Didyma) Full Day Private Tour
Light7 hours 30 minutes
Izmir Boat Group Tour
Easy10 hours 30 minutes
Izmir Boat Private Tour
Easy10 hours 30 minutes

3 Nights in Istanbul

3 Nights in Istanbul

4 days in Istanbul
4 days in Istanbul

3 Nights in Istanbul

Istanbul is a sprawling city of 15+ million people that contains two continents and a wealth of history. From the Byzantines to the Ottoman Empire to the modern Turkish Republic, Istanbul has seen the churn of history throughout the centuries, and the remains of all these eras live alongside the ever-changing face of contemporary Turkey. The Hagia Sophia, formerly a Byzantine church, an Ottoman mosque, and a Republic-era museum, before reverting recently to a mosque, is Istanbul’s most significant site, located in the heart of Sultanahmet. The hip districts of Beyoglu, Besiktas, and Kadikoy overflow with restaurants and cafes, and the central boulevard Istiklal Caddesi serves as the main artery for shopping, food, and nightlife in this buzzing city.

Istanbul is a sprawling city of 15+ million people that contains two continents and a wealth of history. From the Byzantines to the Ottoman Empire to the modern Turkish Republic, Istanbul has seen the churn of history throughout the centuries, and the remains of all these eras live alongside the ever-changing face of contemporary Turkey. The Hagia Sophia, formerly a Byzantine church, an Ottoman mosque, and a Republic-era museum, before reverting recently to a mosque, is Istanbul’s most significant site, located in the heart of Sultanahmet. The hip districts of Beyoglu, Besiktas, and Kadikoy overflow with restaurants and cafes, and the central boulevard Istiklal Caddesi serves as the main artery for shopping, food, and nightlife in this buzzing city.

Day 17

Day 17 - Arrival in Istanbul

A driver will take you to your accommodation in Istanbul.

Day 18

Day 18 - Your First Full Day in Istanbul

Highlights of Istanbul Full Day Private Walking Tour

The Best of Istanbul in a Day

Included in your vacation package price.

Today you are about to delve into the rich history of a city like no other, a city that sits at the crossroads of East and West, the enchanting Istanbul. During this 6-hour tour, you will visit top-rated attractions, such as the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. Moreover, you will marvel at breathtaking views of the city from some of the best viewpoints in Istanbul. End the tour among locals in one of the world's most famous markets, the colorful and historic Grand Bazaar.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 7 hours

Day 19

Day 19 - Your Second Full Day in Istanbul

Tasting Istanbul

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

At the crossroads of East and West, Istanbul is one of the most fascinating and diverse cities. With influences from the many different people that co-existed within the Ottoman Empire for centuries on end, Turkish food is equally diverse. Apart from world-renowned savory and sweet specialties, such as kebabs or baklava, Turkish cuisine features countless other delicious dishes. One of the best ways to get to know Istanbul is through the city's unique tastes during a 5-hour private tour that will take your tastebuds on an unparalleled culinary trip, focusing on the city's unique desserts but also some savory staples. Alternatively, join a small-group cooking class to learn how to prepare some staple Turkish specialties and bring your new skills back home with you, keeping Istanbul in your heart forever in the most delicious way.

Istanbul Small Group Cooking Class

Istanbul Small Group Cooking Class

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and tie on a cooking apron. During this 3-hour cooking class, you will learn how to prepare five delicious authentic Turkish recipes and then enjoy them for lunch or dinner in a traditional restaurant with a glass or two of local wine. This is undoubtedly one of the most fulfilling cultural experiences you can enjoy in Istanbul.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 3 hours

Sweet Tooth of Istanbul Private Walking Tour

Sweet Tooth of Istanbul Private Walking Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Experience the culinary delights and rich history of Istanbul on our signature food tour. This tour takes you on a journey through the city's diverse neighborhoods, including the Asian side, to sample the best pastries and desserts Istanbul has to offer.


This signature tours will take you to favorite desert spots of locals while still covering the history of the city and the lifestyle of its vibrant population. Join this unique excursion combined the history of the city with the tastes you will remember until eternity.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4-5 hours

Day 20

Day 20 - Departure Day

A driver will pick you up at your Istanbul accommodation and drop you off at the airport for your departing flight. The journey to the airport takes around 50 minutes.

We also offer the following excursions in Istanbul

Backstreets of Istanbul Private Walking Tour
Moderate8 Hours
Bazaars and Inns of Ottoman Empire Half Day Private Tour
Light4 hours 30 minutes
Bosphorus Tour with a Private Yacht
Light2 hours
Cumalikizik and Bursa Private Full Day Tour
Moderate11 hours 30 minutes

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Athens

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Athens Airport Transfer
Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour
Athens Airport Transfer
Athens - Heraklion Flight (Non-Refundable)

Heraklion

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Heraklion Airport Private Transfer
Heraklion Bites and Sights Small Group Tour
Heraklion Airport Private Transfer
Heraklion - Rhodes Flight (Non-Refundable)

Rhodes

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Rhodes Airport Transfer
Rhodes Island Full Day Private Tour
Rhodes Port Transfer
Rhodes - Fethiye Ferry

Fethiye

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Fethiye Port - Fethiye Private Transfer
Fethiye - Bodrum Private Transfer

Bodrum

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Bodrum City Private Walking Tour
Bodrum - Izmir Private Transfer

Izmir

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Izmir Old City Private Tour
Izmir - Istanbul Private Transfer with a stop in Pergamon
Guiding Service on the Transfer (Izmir)

Istanbul

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Highlights of Istanbul - Old City Walk Private Tour
Istanbul Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
Get an Instant Price Estimate

Choose the month of travel, how many travelers and what star level accommodation you'd like to stay in, then get an instant price estimate.

Once you’ve done that you can request a tailor-made itinerary based on this by entering just a few more details.






Per Person Package Price from*
Get your personalized itinerary based on this trip.


Sending ...
Thank you!

Thank you for your interest in taking a trip based on this itinerary. One of our expert travel advisors will be in touch soon to start tailoring it precisely to your preferences.

Ooops!?

Something went wrong at our end, please try again in a moment.

Go To Top