Tour Overview
26-Day Turkey, Greece & Egypt Tour: Istanbul, Gallipoli, Santorini, Nile Cruise is planned as a 26 Days / 25 Nights journey linking Countries Covered. The route is designed to combine cultural sightseeing, practical transport connections and time in the principal destinations without compressing the main visits into a single day.
Across the itinerary, the main sightseeing is built around Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Side, ANZAC Cove, Chunuk Bair, The Nek, Gallipoli Peninsula, Troy. Each stop is positioned within the day-by-day route so that the historical, cultural and landscape highlights remain easy to follow from one destination to the next.
Travel logistics are integrated into the program rather than treated as separate arrangements. Depending on the confirmed route, the package includes 4-star hotel accommodation, licensed guided sightseeing, private transfers, domestic flights, ferry connections, a Nile cruise component. The result is a complete multi-day itinerary with the major visits, overnight stops and travel sectors clearly organized.
Tour Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Istanbul: Gateway Between Two Continents
Welcome to Istanbul, the fascinating city where Europe and Asia meet across the Bosphorus. Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport or the cruise terminal, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred privately to your hotel.
After check-in, take some time to relax after your journey or begin exploring the atmosphere of this historic city at your own pace. In the evening, you will receive an introduction to your upcoming Turkey, Greece, and Egypt adventure, including important travel information and details about the days ahead.
Istanbul Old City Tour: Byzantine & Ottoman Heritage
After breakfast, meet your licensed local guide and begin exploring the historic heart of Istanbul, where centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman history come together.
Your walking tour focuses on the remarkable landmarks of the Old City, including:
Hippodrome Square, the former center of public events in ancient Constantinople
Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and German Fountain, historic monuments reflecting Istanbul’s imperial past
Blue Mosque, admired for its elegant Ottoman design and famous İznik tile decoration
Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most influential architectural masterpieces
Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence of Ottoman sultans
Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and most atmospheric shopping markets in the world
After your guided exploration, return to your hotel and enjoy the evening freely.
Bosphorus Cruise: Istanbul’s European & Asian Shores
Enjoy a relaxed morning before experiencing one of Istanbul’s most memorable activities: a cruise along the legendary Bosphorus Strait.
Board your boat and sail between two continents while enjoying views of Istanbul’s magnificent waterfront. During the cruise, admire historic palaces, waterfront mansions, and iconic landmarks including:
Dolmabahçe Palace
Ortaköy Mosque
Galata Bridge
Bosphorus Bridges
Beylerbeyi Palace
Maiden’s Tower
The Golden Horn shoreline
A lunch experience onboard allows you to enjoy Istanbul’s unique scenery from the water before returning to the city.
The rest of the day is free for personal exploration.
Gallipoli Peninsula: Discovering a Legendary Battlefield
After breakfast, depart Istanbul and travel west through the scenic Thrace region toward the Gallipoli Peninsula, one of Turkey’s most significant historical destinations.
Following lunch, explore the important World War I sites connected with the ANZAC campaign, including:
ANZAC Cove
Lone Pine Cemetery
Johnston’s Jolly
The Nek
Chunuk Bair Memorial
Brighton Beach
Your guide will share the remarkable stories behind this historic battlefield and explain its importance in Australian, New Zealand, Turkish, and world history.
Continue to Çanakkale, where you will spend the night.
Ancient Troy, Pergamon & Journey to the Ephesus Region
Begin your day with a visit to the legendary city of Ancient Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site connected with the famous Trojan War described in Homer’s epic stories.
Explore the archaeological remains and learn about the different civilizations that occupied this remarkable settlement over thousands of years.
Continue south toward Pergamon, once one of the most influential cultural and intellectual centers of the ancient world.
Visit the impressive archaeological highlights, including:
Pergamon Acropolis
Temple of Athena
Ancient Library of Pergamon
Great Theatre
Asclepion Medical Center
After your exploration, continue toward Selçuk, the gateway to the ancient wonders of Ephesus.
Ephesus Ancient City & Sirince Village Experience
Today, discover one of the Mediterranean’s best-preserved ancient cities: Ephesus.
Begin with a visit to the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, an important religious site believed by many to be connected with the final years of Mary’s life.
Continue to the extraordinary ruins of Ancient Ephesus, where you will explore:
Library of Celsus
Marble Street
Great Theatre
Ancient temples and monumental structures
After lunch, visit the remains of the Temple of Artemis, once recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Later, continue to the charming mountain village of Şirince, famous for its traditional architecture, local products, and peaceful atmosphere.
Return to your hotel after a full day of history and culture.
Pamukkale Thermal Terraces & Arrival in Antalya
Leave the Aegean region behind and travel toward one of Turkey’s most extraordinary natural landscapes: Pamukkale.
Known as the “Cotton Castle,” Pamukkale features brilliant white travertine terraces created by mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside for thousands of years.
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you will discover:
Roman baths
The ancient theatre
The Temple of Apollo
The impressive necropolis
After lunch, continue your journey south toward the Mediterranean coast and the beautiful city of Antalya, known for its beaches, historic old town, and ancient heritage.
Antalya Region: Ancient Cities of Pamphylia & Mediterranean Heritage
After breakfast, continue discovering the rich history of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast with a full-day exploration of the ancient cities surrounding Antalya.
Your first stop is Perge, one of the most important cities of ancient Pamphylia. Walk through the impressive remains of this once-thriving Roman city, including:
The ancient stadium
Roman baths
Colonnaded streets
Agora area
Monumental gates
Continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Admire the remarkable architecture and exceptional acoustics of this ancient masterpiece, which still hosts cultural performances today.
After lunch near the river, visit the coastal town of Side, where ancient ruins meet Mediterranean scenery. Explore:
The Roman Theatre
Temple of Apollo
Historic harbor area
Before returning to Antalya, stop at Kurşunlu Waterfall, a peaceful natural attraction surrounded by pine forests and walking paths.
Flight to Cappadocia: Enter a Land of Fairy Chimneys
After breakfast, transfer to Antalya Airport for your flight to Kayseri.
Upon arrival, continue to the extraordinary region of Cappadocia, a destination famous worldwide for its surreal landscapes, volcanic rock formations, cave settlements, and unique geological history.
After arriving in Göreme, check into your hotel and enjoy free time to experience the peaceful atmosphere of this remarkable region.
You may explore the local streets, admire the surrounding valleys, or relax at your hotel before the following days of Cappadocia discovery.
Cappadocia’s Hidden Valleys & Underground Heritage
Today, discover a different side of Cappadocia away from the main tourist routes, exploring ancient villages, natural landscapes, and underground settlements.
Begin with panoramic views of Ortahisar Castle, one of the region’s most distinctive rock formations.
Continue to Mustafapaşa Village, a beautifully preserved settlement known for its historic stone houses and cultural heritage reflecting the region’s Greek past.
Your journey continues to:
Sobesos Archaeological Site, featuring remarkable Roman-era mosaic floors
Soğanlı Valley, known for rock-cut churches, peaceful hiking routes, and traditional village scenery
Kaymaklı Underground City, an impressive underground settlement carved into the earth
After lunch in a local village, return to Göreme and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Optional Experience: Sunrise hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia available the following morning.
Cappadocia Highlights & Return Flight to Istanbul
Complete your Cappadocia experience by visiting some of the region’s most iconic landscapes and cultural sites.
Explore:
Uçhisar Castle, the highest natural rock fortress in Cappadocia
Çavuşin Village, surrounded by dramatic volcanic formations
Paşabağı Valley, famous for its extraordinary fairy chimneys
Zelve Open-Air Museum, home to ancient rock-cut churches and monasteries
Devrent Valley, known for unusual natural rock shapes
Avanos, a historic pottery village with traditions dating back thousands of years
In Avanos, discover local craftsmanship and learn about the traditional pottery techniques using the region’s famous red clay.
Later in the day, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your evening flight back to Istanbul.
Flight from Istanbul to Athens: Beginning Your Greek Adventure
After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Athens, the historic capital of Greece and the birthplace of democracy.
Upon arrival, meet your local representative and continue to your hotel by private transfer.
The rest of the day is free to enjoy Athens at your own pace. You may explore the atmospheric streets of Plaka, enjoy traditional Greek cuisine, or admire the illuminated Acropolis from the city center.
Athens offers the perfect combination of ancient history, Mediterranean lifestyle, and modern culture.
Athens Classical Heritage Tour
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Athens, a city that shaped philosophy, politics, art, and Western civilization.
Your guided sightseeing experience includes panoramic views of the city’s most important landmarks, including:
Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Hadrian’s Arch
Syntagma Square
Hellenic Parliament
Academy of Athens
National Library
University of Athens
The highlight of the day is a guided visit to the legendary Acropolis, where you will discover the magnificent Parthenon and other monuments from Classical Greece.
Continue to the Acropolis Museum, where ancient sculptures and archaeological discoveries provide deeper insight into Greek history.
After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Athens independently, shop for local products, or relax at a traditional café.
Ferry Journey to Mykonos: Discover the Iconic Cycladic Island
After breakfast, transfer to Piraeus Port and board your ferry to Mykonos, one of the most famous islands in the Cyclades.
Enjoy the scenic journey across the Aegean Sea as you travel toward this beautiful island known for its whitewashed architecture, blue waters, and vibrant atmosphere.
After arriving in Mykonos and transferring to your hotel, the remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace.
Discover the charming streets of Mykonos Town (Chora), stroll through narrow pathways decorated with colorful flowers, visit the picturesque waterfront, and experience the famous atmosphere of Little Venice, where traditional houses stand directly above the sea.
As the sun sets, enjoy one of the island’s most memorable views while overlooking the Aegean coastline.
Mykonos Leisure Day: Beaches, Villages & Island Charm
Enjoy a full day to experience Mykonos according to your own interests.
Known for its unique blend of traditional Greek character and cosmopolitan island life, Mykonos offers many ways to spend a relaxing day.
You may choose to:
Walk through the charming streets of Mykonos Town
Visit the famous Mykonos Windmills
Admire the unique architecture of Panagia Paraportiani Church
Relax on one of the island’s beautiful beaches
Enjoy a seaside café overlooking the harbor
Explore local boutiques and traditional shops
For travelers interested in history, optional excursions to the nearby sacred island of Delos, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, are also available.
Spend the evening enjoying the atmosphere of this unforgettable Aegean destination.
Ferry to Santorini: Arrival at the Jewel of the Aegean
After a relaxed morning, transfer to the port for your ferry journey to Santorini, one of Greece’s most spectacular islands.
As you approach the island, enjoy breathtaking views of its dramatic volcanic cliffs rising above the deep blue waters of the caldera.
After arrival and hotel check-in, spend the afternoon discovering the unique beauty of Santorini.
Explore:
Fira, the island’s lively capital
Cliffside walking paths with panoramic caldera views
Traditional whitewashed buildings
Local shops and cafés overlooking the Aegean Sea
As evening approaches, experience the magical atmosphere that has made Santorini one of the world’s most romantic destinations.
Santorini Island Experience: Villages, Views & Optional Activities
Enjoy a free day to discover Santorini at your preferred pace.
Explore some of the island’s most famous locations, including:
Oia, known worldwide for its spectacular sunsets
Imerovigli, offering impressive caldera views
Traditional Cycladic villages with whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches
Unique volcanic beaches shaped by the island’s volcanic history
For those looking for additional experiences, optional activities may include:
A sailing cruise through the Santorini caldera
Visits to volcanic islands
Swimming in natural hot springs
Wine tasting at local vineyards
In the evening, enjoy a memorable sunset dinner overlooking the Aegean landscape.
Return to Athens: Final Evening in Greece
Enjoy your final morning on Santorini before transferring to the port for your ferry journey back to Athens.
During the voyage, admire the beautiful scenery of the Aegean Sea one last time before returning to mainland Greece.
Upon arrival in Athens, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your final evening in Greece.
Depending on your preferences, you may spend the evening:
Exploring Athens’ lively neighborhoods
Enjoying traditional Greek cuisine
Shopping for souvenirs
Taking a final walk near the illuminated Acropolis
Tomorrow, your journey continues to Egypt.
Arrival in Cairo: Welcome to Ancient Egypt
After breakfast, transfer to Athens International Airport for your flight to Cairo, the legendary capital of Egypt and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, meet your local representative and receive assistance before continuing to your hotel by private transfer.
The remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey or begin experiencing the unique atmosphere of Cairo.
Tomorrow, your exploration of Egypt’s ancient wonders begins.
Saqqara, Giza Pyramids & the Great Sphinx
Today, discover some of the most iconic archaeological treasures of Ancient Egypt.
Your first stop is Saqqara, the ancient necropolis of Memphis and home to the remarkable Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered one of the earliest monumental stone structures in human history.
Continue to the legendary Giza Plateau, where you will stand before the extraordinary pyramids that have fascinated travelers for thousands of years.
Explore:
Great Pyramid of Khufu
Pyramid of Khafre
Pyramid of Menkaure
Great Sphinx
Standing before these ancient masterpieces offers a unique opportunity to connect with one of the world’s greatest civilizations.
After lunch, return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in Cairo.
Grand Egyptian Museum & Historic Cairo Experience
After breakfast, continue your Egyptian discovery with a visit to the impressive Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), one of the most important archaeological museums in the world.
Explore extensive collections featuring thousands of ancient artifacts, including:
Royal statues
Ancient Egyptian treasures
Historical collections spanning more than five thousand years
The legendary treasures of Tutankhamun
After your museum visit, continue to the historic heart of Cairo and explore the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East.
Walk through its colorful streets filled with:
Traditional handicrafts
Spices
Jewelry
Perfumes
Local souvenirs
Later in the evening, transfer to Cairo Airport for your domestic flight to Aswan, the starting point of your Nile Cruise adventure.
Philae Temple & Begin Your Nile Cruise Journey
After breakfast, begin your Upper Egypt experience with a visit to the beautiful Philae Temple, located on Agilkia Island surrounded by the peaceful waters of the Nile.
Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this magnificent temple complex is one of Egypt’s most atmospheric ancient sites.
After sightseeing, board your elegant 5-star Nile River Cruise, your floating accommodation for the next three nights.
Enjoy lunch onboard and settle into your cabin while the timeless landscapes of the Nile Valley begin to unfold.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on deck and watching traditional villages, palm trees, and desert scenery pass by.
Kom Ombo & Edfu Temples Along the Nile
Wake up surrounded by the peaceful scenery of the Nile River as your cruise continues north.Today’s exploration includes two remarkable ancient temples.Visit: Kom Ombo TempleA unique double temple dedicated to two important deities:
Sobek, the crocodile god
Horus the Elder, the falcon god
Continue sailing toward Edfu, home to one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples.Edfu Temple
Dedicated to Horus, this impressive sanctuary provides an extraordinary insight into ancient Egyptian religious traditions and architecture.
Return to your cruise ship and enjoy another evening sailing through the legendary Nile Valley.
Luxor Temples: The World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum
Arrive in Luxor, often described as the largest open-air museum in the world.
Today, explore some of Egypt’s most impressive ancient monuments.
Visit:
Walk among enormous columns, sacred lakes, and monumental structures built by generations of Egyptian pharaohs.
Discover this beautifully preserved temple located beside the Nile, where Pharaonic, Roman, and later historical influences can still be seen.
After sightseeing, return to your cruise ship for your final evening onboard.
Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple & Return to Cairo
Optional Experience: Sunrise hot air balloon flight over Luxor
After breakfast and cruise disembarkation, continue exploring the legendary West Bank of Luxor.
Visit:
Discover the famous burial site of New Kingdom pharaohs, including the tombs carved deep into the desert mountains.
Admire one of Egypt’s most distinctive architectural achievements, built for one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful female rulers.
See the enormous stone statues that have stood guard over the Luxor landscape for thousands of years.
Later, transfer to Luxor Airport for your domestic flight back to Cairo.
Departure from Cairo: End of Your Journey
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Depending on your departure schedule, you may have free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation before your private transfer to Cairo International Airport.
Your 26-day Turkey, Greece & Egypt journey comes to an end after an unforgettable exploration of three legendary civilizations, combining:
Istanbul’s imperial heritage
Turkey’s ancient landscapes and archaeological wonders
Greece’s classical cities and Aegean islands
Egypt’s timeless monuments and Nile River traditions
We hope this extraordinary adventure leaves you with memories that last a lifetime and inspires your next journey.
What's Included
Included
- ✈️ Flights • International flight from Istanbul to Athens. • International flight from Athens to Cairo. • Domestic flight from Antalya to Kayseri. • Domestic flight from Kayseri to Istanbul. • Domestic flight from Cairo to Aswan. • Domestic flight from Luxor to Cairo.
- 🏨 Accommodation • 11 nights in carefully selected 4-star hotels throughout Turkey • 7 nights in quality hotels in Greece on a bed & breakfast basis • 4 nights in selected 5-star hotels in Cairo and Aswan • 3 nights aboard a 5-star Nile River Cruise between Aswan and Luxor
- 🍽️ Meals • Daily breakfast throughout the tour • Selected lunches during guided sightseeing tours • Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during your Nile Cruise • Meals exactly as specified in the itinerary
- 🏛️ Guided Tours & Sightseeing • Guided sightseeing in Istanbul. • Gallipoli Battlefield tour. • Guided visits to Troy and Pergamon. • Guided sightseeing in Ephesus and Şirince. • Guided visits to Pamukkale and Hierapolis. • Guided sightseeing in Perge, Aspendos, Side, and Kurşunlu Waterfall. • Guided Cappadocia excursions. • Guided Athens city tour with the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. • Guided sightseeing in Cairo. • Guided visits during the Nile Cruise, including Philae Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon.
- 🚢 Ferry & Island Transportation • Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Mykonos. • Ferry from Mykonos to Santorini. • Ferry from Santorini to Athens. • 3-night Nile River Cruise between Aswan and Luxor.
- 🚐 Transportation & Transfers • Airport arrival transfer in Istanbul. • Airport transfer in Athens. • Airport transfer in Cairo. • Airport transfers associated with the included domestic flights. • Hotel, port, and sightseeing transfers as outlined in the itinerary.
- 🎟️ Entrance Fees Entrance fees to the sightseeing attractions listed in the itinerary are included unless otherwise stated under "Not Included."
- 🤝 Professional Travel Support • Meet & Greet service upon arrival in Istanbul, Athens and Cairo • English-speaking professional guides during sightseeing tours • Local assistance throughout your journey • Carefully coordinated multi-country travel arrangements
Not Included
- ✈️ International Flights • International arrival flight to Istanbul. • International departure flight from Cairo.
- 🛂 Visas & Travel Requirements • Entry visas for Turkey, Greece, or Egypt, if required according to the traveler's nationality.
- 🍽️ Meals & Personal Expenses • Meals and beverages not specifically listed under Included. • Personal expenses.
- 🎟️ Optional Activities & Extra Services • Optional tours and activities, including the Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight, Delos Island Excursion, Santorini Caldera Cruise, and Luxor Hot Air Balloon Flight.
- 💳 Additional Costs • Travel insurance. • Tips for guides, drivers, cruise staff, and hotel personnel. • Any services not specifically listed under Included.