Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Turkey · UNESCO Heritage Sites

12-Day Balkans and Turkey Tour with 3 Flights and Cappadocia

12 Days Round trip from Athens Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Experience a guided tour of the Acropolis and ancient landmarks in Athens
  • 02 Visit the historic sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi
  • 03 Explore the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Meteora
  • 04 Stop at the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery in Bulgaria
  • 05 Discover Sofia, Bulgaria's capital, with its historic landmarks
  • 06 Enjoy guided tours in Istanbul and Cappadocia, with flights included

Experience the highlights of Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey on this 12-day adventure through Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki, Sofia, Bucharest, Istanbul, and Cappadocia. Explore ancient landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon, visit the historic sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi, and admire the stunning monasteries of Meteora and Rila. The journey also includes guided city tours, comfortable accommodations, and three included flights, with an optional excursion to Transylvania's Bran (Dracula) Castle, Brașov, and Peles Castle. Nota: Nuestros huéspedes Españoles deben tener en cuenta que los guías locales serán españoles en este tour, pero el guía/conductor en el automóvil puede ser inglés.

Explore ancient landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon, visit the historic sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi, and admire the stunning monasteries of Meteora and Rila.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Premium
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Athens, Brasov, Bucharest, Istanbul, Kayseri, Cappadocia, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Thessaloniki, Rila Monastery, Meteora, Kalabaka, Delphi
Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Athens and Leisure Time

  • Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, a private transfer to the hotel is provided, where you will be greeted with a warm welcome. In case your flight is delayed, there is no reason to worry, as our driver will meet you accordingly, with no additional charges for flight delays.
  • After checking in, enjoy some leisure time to explore Athens at your own pace. Wander through the city's charming streets or relax and soak in the local ambiance before retiring for a restful overnight stay in the heart of Athens.

Accommodation: Ilissos Hotel or Boss Boutique Hotel Athens

2
Day 02

Athens City Tour and Acropolis Museum

  • Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a half-day guided tour of Athens, the capital city of Greece, and the Acropolis Museum.
  • During a scenic coach journey, marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Greek Parliament and Panathenaic Stadium.
  • Delve into the rich history of Athens with a walking tour of the Acropolis, home to the majestic Parthenon.
  • Return to your hotel for another night in Athens, filled with the city's vibrant energy.

Accommodation: Ilissos Hotel or Boss Boutique Hotel Athens.

Meals: Daily Breakfast

Note: Lunch will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Visits: Athens City tour with Licensed local Guide

3
Day 03

Delphi Ruins and Journey to Meteora

  • After a hearty breakfast, set out on a luxurious bus journey to Delphi, renowned for its ancient archaeological treasures. Explore the famed Temple of Apollo and other historic ruins.
  • Following a satisfying lunch, continue through Central Greece to Kalabaka, nestled beneath the dramatic rock formations of Meteora. Experience the awe of Meteora's monasteries, perched high on cliffs, during an overnight stay in this picturesque town.

Accommodation: Alexiou Hotel

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner at hotel.

Note: Lunch will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Licensed Guided tour at Delphi

Delphi Entrance ticket is included.

Route Athens to Delphi 213km-Delphi Meteora 220km (Notice: This day is the longest journey of our tour)

4
Day 04

Meteora Monasteries and Thessaloniki

  • Start your day with breakfast before visiting the UNESCO-listed Meteora Monasteries.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views and explore these cliff-top Byzantine marvels. Meet your Ajdinis Guide at Kalabaka and join the group to continue your journey to Thessaloniki, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture.
  • Discover landmarks such as the White Tower and Arch of Galerius, then unwind with a comfortable overnight stay in Thessaloniki.

Accommodation: Hotel Egnatia, Thessaloniki

Meals: Daily Breakfast

Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Monastery entrance ticket is included (Note: To enter the monasteries, appropriate clothing is required. Ladies should not wear short skirts and must have long sleeves. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.)

Route: Meteora-Thessaloniki 228km

5
Day 05

Rila Monastery and Sofia City Tour

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria.
  • En route, make a significant stop at the Rila Monastery, an architectural and spiritual gem nestled in the Rila Mountains.
  • As Bulgaria's largest and most celebrated Eastern Orthodox monastery, Rila Monastery is renowned for its intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and serene mountain setting.
  • Explore the monastery's rich history and artistic treasures before continuing your journey.
  • Upon arrival in Sofia, visit the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a monumental symbol of Bulgarian Orthodoxy, and the historic St. Sofia Basilica, one of the city's oldest churches.
  • Continue your exploration with the National Art Gallery and the Presidential Palace, known for their impressive architecture and ceremonial significance.
  • With the guide's decision, the Sofia city tour can be postponed to the next morning.
  • In the evening, check in to your comfortable hotel and unwind after a day of exploration with an overnight stay in this vibrant city.

Accommodation: Best Western Terminus Hotel Sofia

Meals: Daily Breakfast

Note: Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Visit: Rila Monastery ticket is included. Guided City Tour.

Route: Thessaloniki-Rila Monastery 232km; Rila Monastery-Sofia 117km

6
Day 06

Veliko Tarnovo Stop and Arrival in Bucharest

  • After a satisfying breakfast, you'll head off on a comfortable transfer to Bucharest, Romania's lively capital.
  • On the way, you will have lunch in another beautiful Balkan city, in the town known as the capital of the former Bulgarian Empire - Veliko Tarnovo.
  • Once you arrive in Bucharest, check into your hotel and then enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. It's a great opportunity to start soaking in the vibrant atmosphere before settling in for the night.

Accommodation: Peakture Hotel Bucharest

Meal: Daily Breakfast

Lunch will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the driver on the route.

Route: Sofia-Velika Tarnovo 219km, Velika Tarnova-Bucharest 180km

7
Day 07

Optional Transylvania Day Trip

  • Following breakfast, set out on a full-day trip (optional - 120 EUR per person) to the enchanting region of Transylvania.
  • The optional tour includes visits to Bran (Dracula) Castle, the medieval town of Brașov, and the stunning Peles Castle. Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking scenery of Transylvania.
  • Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking scenery of Transylvania before heading back to Bucharest to wrap up your incredible trip.
  • Make sure to sign up for these tours in advance if you're interested.

Meal: Daily Breakfast

Note: Lunch and dinner will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Visit: Bran Castle and Peles Castle tickets are included. Licensed tour guide.

Route: 377km

8
Day 08

Bucharest City Highlights

  • Start with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, then set out on a guided tour of Bucharest's highlights.
  • Explore iconic sites like Revolution Square, the Romanian Atheneum, and the charming Old Town.
  • Take in landmarks such as Manuc's Inn and the Old Princely Court. After your tour, relax and reflect on the day's discoveries before spending another night in Bucharest.

Accommodation: Peakture Hotel Bucharest

Meal: Daily Breakfast

Lunch will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Bucharest city tour with Licensed local guide.

9
Day 09

Flight from Bucharest to Istanbul

  • After breakfast, board a flight to Istanbul, Turkey. The flight is included, with variable departure times.
  • Upon arrival in Istanbul, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time to explore the city at your own pace.

Meal: Daily Breakfast

Self transfer to airport.

Istanbul flight ticket is included.

Istanbul Airport to hotel transfer is included.

10
Day 10

Istanbul Landmarks and Grand Bazaar

  • After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, enjoy pickup for a half-day guided city tour of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, explore the stunning Sultan Ahmet Blue Mosque, and discover the historic Hippodrome.
  • Experience the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. Conclude your day by enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Istanbul.

Accommodation: Dosso Dossi Hotel or Recital Hotel Istanbul

Meal: Daily Breakfast

Lunch will be purchased additionally at local restaurants directed by the guide on the route.

Visits: Istanbul city tour with licensed tour guide.

11
Day 11

Flight to Cappadocia and North Cappadocia Tour

  • Early in the morning, transfer from your hotel to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Kayseri.
  • Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to Cappadocia for a tour of North Cappadocia.
  • Discover the region's natural wonders, including Devrent Valley, Zelve Open-Air Museum, Monk Valley, Goreme Open-Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, and Uchisar Castle. After the tour, check into your cave hotel for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Cave Hotel, Cappadocia

Meals: Daily Breakfast

Flight: Included

12
Day 12

South Cappadocia Tour and Return Flight

  • After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, enjoy a second-day tour of Cappadocia, visiting Kizilcukur, Cavusin Village, Derinkuyu Underground City, Ortahisar, and Catalkaya.
  • For an additional experience, join an early morning hot air balloon ride (optional) at 05:30 am.
  • After the tour, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, arriving at 20:50.

End of services.

See you on your next adventure with Ajdinis Travel.

Meals: Daily Breakfast

Flight: Included

Parthenon, Temple of Apollo (Delphi), Monastery of Great Meteoron, Derinkuyu underground city

Where this trip takes you

Parthenon, Temple of Apollo (Delphi), Monastery of Great Meteoron, Derinkuyu underground city

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Athens 13 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation: Stay in 4-star or 3-star hotels and enjoy comfortable accommodations throughout the expedition in double or twin rooms.
  • Bed and breakfast service: Start each day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your explorations.
  • Flights: Flights are included.
  • Guide.
  • Professional guide: A guided tour in Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Bucharest, Istanbul, and Cappadocia, covering iconic landmarks and historical sites with a local guide.
  • Professional and knowledgeable guides accompany you from Day 4 in Meteora through Day 5 in Sofia, ensuring an insightful and enriching experience throughout your journey.
  • Meals: Daily breakfast provided at the hotels.
  • Additional services.
  • Immerse in culture: Engage with the local culture through visits to historic sites, museums, and old town areas.
  • Personalized exploration: Enjoy free time in each location for self-guided exploration, shopping, and savoring local cuisine.
  • Flexibility: Strike the perfect balance between structured tours and independent discovery.
  • Transportation.
  • Seamless transfers: Transportation is included for the entire journey, ensuring smooth transitions between destinations.
  • Comfortable travel: Travel in style and comfort as you explore Europe and the Balkans.

What's Not Included

  • Insurance: Not included, yet highly recommended.
  • Optional: Enhance your experience with optional excursions, including visiting and tasting at a local winery (55 EUR) and a Greek taverna.
  • Transylvania full day: 120 EUR.
  • Balloon ride in Cappadocia: depending on the season.
  • Additional services.
  • Important reminder: Museum and historical site entrance fees belong to the guests.
  • City tax in hotels in Greece is paid in cash by the guest.

Know before you go

  • We customize our vehicle selection according to group size and needs. Sedans are deployed for smaller groups of up to 3 people, while minivans accommodate groups of up to 8 individuals. For larger groups exceeding 8 passengers, we rely on Sprinter vans.
  • This special approach has been designed to ensure the comfort and efficiency of all passengers, regardless of group size, providing a seamless travel experience for everyone onboard.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Athens, Greece
Tour start
Athens, Greece
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 12 days finish where they began, in Athens.

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Starting from

EUR 2,790 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room €2,790.00 — €3,995.00
Double Sharing €2,790.00

When

Travellers

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