Highlights |
Guided Package Includes
- Flights NYC-Athens, Istanbul-NYC
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- Intra-flight
- 9 nights accommodations
- All transfers
- 12 meals: 9 breakfasts, 3 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager (Days 3-6)
- Services of a local guide in Athens and Istanbul
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Special Features
- Acropolis in Athens
- Archeological site of Olympia and Delphi
- Meteora
- Blue Mosque & Topkapi Palace in Istanbul
Also Available
The Parthenon, Acropolis, Athens
Temple of Apollo, Corinth
Temple of Athena, Delphi
Meteora Monastery
Olympic Stadium, Athens
Temple of Zeus, Athens
Istanbul
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The Parthenon, Acropolis, Athens
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Temple of Apollo, Corinth
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Temple of Athena, Delphi
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Meteora Monastery
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Olympic Stadium, Athens
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Temple of Zeus, Athens
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Istanbul
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Itinerary |
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DAY 1, Saturday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA to Greece. Your flight includes meals, drinks and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Athens
Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Athens
DAY 3, Monday - Sightseeing en route to Olympia
Depart Athens via the scenic coastal road to the Corinth Canal, where you will visit the amphitheater of Epidaurus, still used today. After envisioning Thespis singing the purest of dithyrambs, continue via Nauplion to Mycenae, the heartland of Greek mythology. Visit the archaeological site known as the "Treasury of Atreus," and the Tomb of Agamemnon, built around 1250 B.C. From here, drive the Central Peloponnese Peninsula, whose primary cities were Corinth and Sparta in classical times, through to the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Continue to Olympia, birthplace of the first Olympic Games
Overnight: Olympia
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4, Tuesday - Olympia Archaeological Site Tour
Visit the archaeological site of Olympia, including the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the ancient stadium, and the Archaeological Museum, where Greek works of art such as Nike of Paionios and terracotta statues date to 5th century B.C. Drive north through the plains of Eliad and Achaia, crossing the Corinth Strait via a cabled bridge from Rion to Antirion. Pass the towns of Nafpactos and Itea en route to the city of Delphi, home of the ruins of the Tholos Temple
Overnight: Delphi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 5, Wednesday - Delphi Archaeological Site Tour, Travel to Kalambaka
In the morning, visit the excavated site and museum of Delphi, where you will find the sacred Omphalos, once kept in the Adyton of Apollo's Temple, along with the Kourus Statues, Kleobis and Viton, and the 32 foot high Sphinx of Naxos, sitting on an Ionic column (circa 560 B.C.). Continue to the small town of Kalambaka, situated amidst smooth sandstone cliffs in the foothills of Meteora
Overnight: Kalambaka
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6, Thursday - Meteora Sightseeing, Return to Athens
Visit Meteora, meaning "suspended in the air," with its mystical monasteries nestled perilously close to the edge of the bizarre rock formations. View exquisite specimens of Byzantine art, and then continue past Thermopylae, arriving in Athens in early evening
Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Friday - Athens City Tour
Your morning tour of Athens includes visits to the Acropolis and its museum, Panathenian Stadium, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the ruins of the Temple of Zeus. Enjoy the balance of day at leisure
Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Saturday - Fly to Istanbul
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9, Sunday - Istanbul City Tour
This morning join a half day city tour of Istanbul. The tour includes visits to St. Sophia, the great Byzantine Basilica built in the 6th century, the Grand Bazaar, the Hippodrome, and the Blue Mosque which is a 17th century Ottoman Mosque famous for its six minarets and magnificent blue tiled interior. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Istanbul on your own
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Monday - Topkapi Palace & Rustem Pasa Mosque
This morning enjoy a half day tour including a visit to Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman Sultans housing the richness of 700 years. Visit of the Treasury section with the crown jewels and the unique collection of Chinese porcelains. Continue onto the Rustem Pasa Mosque, built by the great architect Sinan, and beautifully adorned with tiles featuring tulips, carnations and pomegranate flowers
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11, Tuesday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, domestic airport taxes of $89.10, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, but does include Athens - Istanbul flight.
Upgrade for Athens hotel: Divani Palace Acropolis
Upgrade for Istanbul hotel: Elite World Hotel
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
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Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | Greece - Spring: 60°F-80°F; Summer: 85°F-95°F; Autumn: 60°F-80°F; Winter: 40°F-50°F Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather coat. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Greece Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx#greece-weather
| Turkey - Spring: 50°F-65°F; Summer: 70°F-90°F; Autumn: 55°F-75°F; Winter: 40°F-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. Some religious sites do not allow shorts or sleeveless shirts.
Turkey Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx#turkey-weather
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| E-tickets | Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification (valid passport) to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| Greece - If you have purchased international airfare and/or transfers from Gate 1, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. You will be met by our local representative after you pass through customs. Look for someone holding a Gate 1 Travel sign. If you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, please call the Gate 1 emergency phone number at 6932 9198 21 (local number).
In case of amended flight(s) or emergency, or for a late hour arrival, please contact the Gate 1 emergency number at 6932 9198 21 (local number). When calling from the United States, dial 011 30 6932 9198 21; when calling from anywhere in Europe, dial 00 30 6932 9198 21. Once you have started traveling, the only way we can be advised of an amended flight itinerary is for you to call.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
| Airport to City Center Public Transportation Options in Athens
PLEASE BE ADVISED: Metro service between the Athens Airport and the city center has been suspended due to construction. The Suburban Rail Line will operate as usual during this time.
The Suburban Rail Line train runs every 30 minutes between the airport and Larissa Train Station (closest stop to the Oscar Hotel). Journey time is 45 minutes. The cost is 8 Euro per person one way.
A taxi from the airport to Athens city center costs approximately 30 Euro per taxi during the day. Between midnight and 6 a.m., this cost is approximately 45 Euro.
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| Hotels | | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard. | | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Greece - Greece offers an array of boutique shopping. Along with traditional handicrafts, honey, and olive oil, Greece is famous for its production of high-end, designer footwear and other fashion accessories. Shops generally have different business hours than in the United States, opening at 9:00, closing in the mid afternoon, and sometimes reopening for a few hours in the evening, from about 5:30 to 8:30. Most major department stores and boutiques are closed on Sunday.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus.
| Greece - The Euro is the currency of Greece.
| Turkey - The Turkish Lira is the currency of Turkey.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally |
On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them.
Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below.
This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information.
http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| Turkey - Payment can be made by cash US$ or Turkish Lira, or by credit card if the amount to be charged is $200 or greater.
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day - *Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day - *Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours) - *River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises) - *Private car tours(small groups of 2-14 passengers):
$12 to $16 per person per day for each day of sightseeing - *Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person - *Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner) - *Chamber maid:
$1 per person per day
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Greece - Service charges are generally included in restaurant bills. If you feel like you received particularly good service, you may leave an additional gratuities. Also, it is customary to leave coins totaling around one Euro for the busboy.
| Turkey - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Greece
- General Emergency: 112
- Ambulance/Medical: 166
- Fire: 199
- Police: 100
| Turkey
- Ambulance/Medical: 112
- Fire: 110
- Police: 155; 156 in rural areas
| | Languages | Greece - Greek is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Turkey - Turkish is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Greece - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| Turkey - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Greece - The Greeks are known for their relatively relaxed approach to life with an emphasis on hospitality, similar to other Mediterranean European countries. The Greek Orthodox Church retains a fairly strong cultural influence. In Greece, politics is considered an acceptable topic of discussion in almost any social situation. As a result, people may attempt to draw you into political discussions, which can include the subject of American politics. Keep in mind that regardless of their political views, most Greeks like Americans themselves very much.
Smoking is mostly prohibited in public places except in designated areas. Violations can incur fines. Restaurants have smoking and non-smoking sections, while traditional coffee houses and nightclubs usually allow unrestricted smoking. Casual dress is generally acceptable, though some religious sites require that legs and shoulders be covered.
| Turkey - The common form of greeting is shaking hands, while close friends will sometimes hold hands and kiss cheeks. In Turkey, hospitality is highly valued and people are often quite friendly. Even salespeople may offer tea to customers. If you are comfortable with accepting, you may drink it without any obligation to make a purchase. Casual dress is acceptable, but beachwear should only be worn at the beach or poolside. Smoking is generally permitted except in cinemas, theaters, and on public transportation.
| | Holidays - Greece |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Years |
Jan 6 |
Feast of the Epiphany |
Mar 2 |
Orthodox Shrove Monday |
Mar 25 |
Independence Day |
Apr 17 |
Orthodox Good Friday |
Apr 19 |
Orthodox Easter |
| Apr 20 |
Orthodox Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labour Day |
| Jun 8 |
Day of the Holy Spirit |
Aug 15 |
Feast of the Assumption |
Oct 28 |
Ochi Day |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Boxing Day |
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All offices, stores and some sites or museums are closed on these days. The Plaka area is open year round, except for the morning of New Year.
| | Holidays - Turkey |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's day |
Apr 23 |
National Sovereignty and Children's Day |
May 19 |
Commemoration of Atatürk and Youth and Sports Day |
Aug 30 |
Victory Day |
Sep 19 - 22 |
Ramadan Feast |
Oct 29 |
Republic Day |
| Nov 27-30 |
Kurban Bayrami (Feast of the Sacrifice) |
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| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's day |
Apr 23 |
National Sovereignty and Children's Day |
May 19 |
Commemoration of Atatürk and Youth and Sports Day |
Aug 30 |
Victory Day |
Sep 19 - 22 |
Seker Bayrami (End of Ramazan/Ramadan) |
Oct 28 |
Republic Day |
Nov 27 - Dec 1 |
Kurban Bayrami (Feast of the Sacrifice) |
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