10-Day Empires and Antiquity Tour: Istanbul, Athens, and Cairo

Upon arrival at Istanbul International Airport, your personal driver will provide a seamless private transfer to your luxury hotel. After settling in, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax or begin exploring the vibrant city where East meets West. For dinner, delve into Istanbul’s rich culinary scene, perhaps trying renowned Turkish specialties like fresh fish, mezzes, or traditional kebabs.

Accommodation: Istanbul | Meals: None

Following a Turkish breakfast, embark on a full-day walking tour with a private expert guide through Istanbul’s most treasured historical sites. Visit the ancient Hippodrome and the iconic Blue Mosque. Explore the mystical underground Basilica Cistern before standing in awe of the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel. After lunch, immerse yourself in the opulence of the Ottoman Empire at Topkapi Palace. Conclude your day navigating the vibrant, sensory explosion of the Grand Bazaar, perfect for discovering unique treasures.

Accommodation: Istanbul | Meals: Breakfast

Begin your day with an invigorating two-hour Bosphorus cruise, offering unparalleled views of Istanbul’s European and Asian shores, dotted with Ottoman mansions and marble palaces. Afterward, dive into local life with a culinary and historical walk along Istiklal Street, sampling local street food and passing landmarks like Galata Tower. Visit the historic Camondo Steps and cross the Golden Horn to explore the lively Spice Market before returning to your hotel.

Accommodation: Istanbul | Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast and check-out, you will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arrival in the Greek capital, you will be met and transferred to your elegant hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to acclimatize. Explore emerging neighborhoods like Pangrati or delve into the vibrant nightlife and traditional mezze of the Psyrri district.

Accommodation: Athens | Meals: Breakfast

Begin your day with a scenic drive through the mainland to the archaeological site of Delphi, once known as the “navel of the world.” Guided by a professional, explore the revered ruins that once housed the legendary Oracle of Delphi, including the iconic Temple of Apollo. Visit the Delphi Museum to view priceless artifacts like the bronze Charioteer. After a delightful lunch in the modern village of Delphi, enjoy a brief stop in the charming mountain village of Arachova before returning to Athens.

Accommodation: Athens | Meals: Breakfast

Embark on a profound historical journey into the Peloponnese. Cross the impressive Corinth Canal before arriving at Mycenae. Walk through the iconic Lion’s Gate, marvel at the Cyclopean Walls, and explore the Royal Tombs, all steeped in mythology. Next, visit Nafplio, Greece’s beautiful first modern capital. Finally, stand within the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, a UNESCO site renowned for its astonishing preservation and perfect acoustics. Return to Athens in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Athens | Meals: Breakfast

Start your morning with a final tour of Athens’ highlights. Visit the Panathenaic Stadium and witness the Changing of the Guards at the Greek Parliament. Explore the grandeur of the Athens Trilogy (University, Academy, and National Library). Conclude your Greek experience by skipping the line to explore the magnificent Acropolis and its iconic Parthenon. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairo, Egypt. Upon arrival, you will be met and escorted to your hotel.

Accommodation: Cairo | Meals: Breakfast

Begin your journey into Ancient Egypt with an expert Egyptologist guide. Explore the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza, the mystical Sphinx, and the ancient necropolis of Sakkara, home to Egypt’s oldest pyramid. Your guide will provide deep historical context and fantastic photo opportunities. You will also have the chance to optionally enter one of the pyramids and visit the Papyrus Institute.

Accommodation: Cairo | Meals: Breakfast

Start your day by visiting the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts spanning over 5,000 years, including the gold and alabaster treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb. In the afternoon, explore Old Cairo, visiting the historic Citadel of Saladin and the impressive Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan. Conclude your day browsing the bustling stalls of the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar before enjoying a traditional Tanowra and folklore show.

Accommodation: Cairo | Meals: Breakfast

After a final breakfast, enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Cairo International Airport for your onward international departure. Depart with a wealth of historical knowledge and unforgettable memories from the three great historical hubs of Istanbul, Athens, and Cairo.

Meals: Breakfast