Turkiye / Istanbul, Athens and Cairo Tour – 10 Days
10-day journey through three fascinating cities: Istanbul, Athens, and Cairo. Delve into history in Istanbul, explore iconic landmarks in Athens, and soak up the ancient wonders of Cairo. This itinerary ensures an unforgettable journey brimming with excitement and discovery. Book now for an exclusive adventure where history meets modernity!
Enjoy Istanbul’s most famous monuments in two days with an experienced guide.
Cruise the Bosphorus and take in the iconic waterway’s sights and sounds.
Gaze out over the cradle of Western civilization from atop the Acropolis.
Visit Delphi, ancient Greece’s most sacred site on the slopes of Mt. Parnassus.
Learn about the Pyramids of Giza on a private tour with an expert Egyptologist guide.
Enjoy the rich culture of the city with visits to the Egyptian Museum.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| Day 1 | Welcome to Istanbul | Istanbul |
| Day 2 | Explore the historical treasures of Istanbul’s Old City | Istanbul |
| Day 3 | Cruising the Bosphorus and Culinary Walk | Istanbul |
| Day 4 | Fly to Athens — Day at leisure | Athens |
| Day 5 | Delphi Sightseeing Tour | Athens |
| Day 6 | Discovery of Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio | Athens |
| Day 7 | Morning Athens City Tour — Fly to Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 8 | Tour of Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis, Sakkara | Cairo |
| Day 9 | Egyptian Museum & Old Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 10 | Departure |
Plan your trip to Istanbul, Athens and Cairo
This is a sample itinerary for inspiration. Chat with a local expert who can assist you in planning your one-of-a-kind trip.
On your arrival at Istanbul International Airport, your personal driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel in the city center. After you’ve settled in, you have the rest of the day to relax or explore Istanbul on your own.
When you’re hungry, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of Istanbul’s many kebab restaurants or try some other Turkish specialties like fresh fish, mezes, pide (flatbread), and kofte (meatballs). And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try raki, which is Turkey’s national drink and has a distinct anise flavor.
Good morning! Before we start our exploration today, we suggest having a nice Turkish breakfast to get ready for the day. You’ll need the energy because today we’re going on a full-day walking tour of the major landmarks in Istanbul’s Old City, with a private guide.
Our journey begins with a visit to the ancient Hippodrome, once a vibrant center for chariot races and sporting events during the Byzantine era. Then, we’ll visit the nearby Blue Mosque, famous for its beautiful interior decorated with blue tiles. After that, we’ll check out the Basilica Cistern, an underground wonder with an interesting history as a water storage system. We’ll finish the morning section with a visit to the impressive Hagia Sophia—an architectural masterpiece that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires.
After a delicious lunch break at a Michelin-recommended restaurant to refuel, we’ll dive into the splendor of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace. Get ready to admire the stunning architecture and priceless treasures, and learn all about the extravagant lifestyle of the sultans.
In the late afternoon, your guide will take you to the iconic Grand Bazaar. With its 4,000-plus shops spread across 61 streets, it’s a lively market bursting with colors, sounds, and aromas. Here, you can watch skilled artisans at work and put your bargaining skills to the test for some unique treasures.
Afterwards, return to your hotel for some relaxation. Later in the evening, you can venture out for dinner at one of the restaurants in Taksim Square, Galata, or the trendy Karaköy area.
On your third day in Istanbul, get ready for an exciting exploration of Istanbul’s most captivating attractions. Today, we’ll use public transportation to give you a taste of local life.
To start our day, we’ll hop aboard a boat for a two-hour cruise along the Bosphorus. From the deck, you’ll have the chance to take in the breathtaking views of Istanbul’s renowned landmarks on both the Europeanand Asian sides of the city. As we glide along, you’ll see everything from Ottoman mansions to marble palaces, stunning mosques, and delightful neighborhoods lining the city’s shores. This cruise promises a one-of-a-kind and picturesque view of Istanbul.
But that’s just the beginning! After the boat ride, we’ll dive into the heart of Istanbul with a food tour along Istiklal Street. We’ll try out some yummy local street food while checking out historical spots like consulates, St. Antoine’s Church, the Galata Whirling Dervish Hall, Tunel District, Neve Shalom Synagogue, and the iconic Galata Tower. Each stop will make you feel more connected to Istanbul’s rich history and culture.
Next, we’ll visit the Camondo Steps, a beautiful Art Nouveau creation from the 1870s leading down to Karaköy‘s waterfront. Then, we’ll cross the Golden Horn via the Galata Bridge to reach the Eminönü waterfront, famous for its lively bazaars. Here, we’ll explore the Spice Market, try some local treats like nuts and Turkish delight, and maybe have a cup of tea in the bustling atmosphere.
After a full day of exploring Istanbul’s sights and flavors, we’ll head back to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation before dinner.
After breakfast and checking out from your hotel, you’ll be taken to Istanbul airport for your flight to Athens. Once you arrive in Athens, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.
You can spend your evening exploring the emerging Pangrati neighborhood or soaking up the nightlife and delicious mezze of the Psyrri district. It’s up to you how you want to spend your time in this exciting city!
The day begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel in Athens, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure. Our professional guide will provide you with all the necessary details as we start a scenic drive through Greece’s mainland, passing through the fertile plain of Boeotia and the historic towns of Thebes and Levadia. Along the way, you’ll enjoy picturesque views and have the opportunity to socialize with fellow travelers.
Arriving at the ancient Delphi archaeological site, known as the “navel of the world,” you’ll be transported back in time to explore the ruins that once housed the legendary Oracle of Delphi. Accompanied by our professional guide, you’ll discover iconic landmarks such as the Temple of Apollo, the treasury of the Athenians, and the Athenian Stoa, while learning about the site’s rich history, mythology, and modern significance.
Marvel at the Castalia Spring, a sacred fountain in ancient Delphi, and admire the monument of the Argive Kings and the majestic Temple of Apollo, renowned for its oracle that influenced ancient Greek civilization. Take the opportunity to enter the Delphi Museum, where you’ll encounter spectacular exhibits including the famous bronze Charioteer and other priceless artifacts that offer insight into ancient Greek culture and artistry.
After concluding your guided tour, indulge in a delicious lunch at the modern village of Delphi (at your own expense), savoring traditional Greek cuisine amidst stunning mountain views. Before returning to Athens, enjoy a brief stop at the mountain village of Arachova, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and capture some final photos of the breathtaking scenery.
As the day draws to a close, our tour returns to Athens in the late afternoon, dropping you off at your hotel and leaving you with cherished memories of your journey to Delphi.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the heart of ancient Greek civilization. Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your Athens hotel in a comfortable minivan. Leave the city behind as you head towards the serene Peloponnese, crossing the iconic Corinth Canal slicing through the isthmus to connect the Aegean and Ionian seas.
First, you’ll visit Mycenae, which you may recognize from its role in Homer’s “Iliad.” It was home to the famous Helen, whose husband was Menelaus, king of Sparta, who sent his people to war when she left him for Paris of Troy. Walk through the iconic Lion’s Gate, marvel at the Cyclopean Walls, and explore the Royal Tombs steeped in legend. Your guide will bring the ruins to life with captivating tales of intrigue and mythology.
Next, you’ll stop in Nafplio, Greece’s first modern capital, known for its blend of Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. Take some time to wander its charming streets and admire the fortress of Palamidi overlooking the sea. Then, it’s off to Epidaurus, renowned for its ancient theater, recognized by UNESCO for its remarkable preservation and acoustics. Experience the theater’s astonishing sound quality, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient engineers, and imagine the performances that have echoed through the ages. As the sun begins to set on the Peloponnese, your journey back to Athens will be filled with reflections on the day’s discoveries.
Get ready for an unforgettable half-day morning tour through Athens’ most iconic landmarks! We’ll start at the impressive Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely of white marble and the site of the first Olympic Games in 1896. After snapping some amazing photos, we’ll head to the Greek Parliament to witness the changing of the guards ceremony, while your expert guide shares insights into these famous landmarks.
Next, we’ll explore the Athens Trilogy, including the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, and the National Library, marveling at their architectural beauty and rich history. Then, we’ll wander through the charming neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki, known for their picturesque streets, traditional tavernas, and bustling markets.
Before we delve into the vibrant city center, we’ll make a quick stop at the Ancient Agora for a photo opportunity at the Temple of Hephaestus, a stunning testament to ancient Greek architecture. Finally, we’ll conclude our tour with a visit to the magnificent Acropolis, where you’ll skip the line to explore its iconic landmarks, including the Parthenon and Erechtheion, while learning about their fascinating history and mythology from your knowledgeable guide.
With the conclusion of the tour, transfer to the airport for evening flight to Cairo. Upon arrival at the airport in Cairo, meet up with your travel representative, who will assist you through customs and formalities. Then, you will be escorted to your hotel for check-in. Relax after a long day of travel.
Today, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey back in time to ancient Egypt, guided by an Egyptologist. We’ll explore the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza, the mystical Sphinx, and the storied necropolis of Sakkara.
Located just 30 minutes from Cairo, the Giza Plateau is where you’ll find the famous pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Menakaure. Your guide will provide interesting insights into each pyramid. You’ll also have the option to enter one of the pyramids on your own, as guides are not allowed inside.
After exploring the pyramids, we’ll head to a spot for a fantastic photo opportunity, capturing the three pyramids against the Cairo skyline. Then, we’ll drive to the city side of the plateau to visit the Sphinx, an iconic symbol of Egypt for centuries.
Our next destination is Sakkara, home to Egypt’s oldest pyramid, built in 2800 B.C. Here, your guide will share a brief history of the famous Step Pyramid, and you’ll have some free time to explore. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Papyrus Institute to witness the creation of the famous artwork.
Start your day by visiting the Egyptian Museum, known for its extensive collection of Egyptian antiques spanning over 5,000 years. Take in the impressive exhibits, including massive statues of Ramses II, housed in the museum’s large rotunda on the ground floor. For a better view, head up to the upper galleries. Don’t miss the chance to see the gold and alabaster treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb, including his famous golden mask, a permanent exhibit in Cairo.
In the afternoon, explore Old Cairo with visits to the Citadel of Saladin, a historic fortress, and the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, a grand mosque dating back to the 1300s. Browse through the stalls of Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where you can shop for various items like lamps, rugs, and jewelry.
Afterward, relax at El Fishawy Café with a drink before enjoying a tanowra and folklore show at Wekalet El Ghori. Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at Naguib Mahfouz‘s restaurant before returning to your hotel in Cairo to relax.
After a beautiful breakfast it’s time to bid farewell to Egypt. Your driver will transfer you to the airport for your international departure. Now it’s your chance to export the beauty of Istanbul, Athens and Cairo’s history and culture everyone back home.
Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey! 😊✈️🌍
