Itinerary

1. Day 1- Arrival in Athens

   • 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 because our driver will meet you accordingly. There are 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 2- Explore Athens

   • Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a half-day guided tour of the capital city of Greece, Athens 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 3- Athens – Delphi – Meteora (Kalabaka)

   • 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 4- Meteora (Kalabaka) to 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 in 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 5- Thessaloniki to Sofia via Rila Monastery

   • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then set out on a scenic journey towards to the capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia. 
   • 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 National Art Gallery, Presidential Palace, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial significance.
   • With the guide decision, the Sofia city tour can be postponed the next day 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 6- Sofia-Veliko Tarnovo -Bucharest

   • After a satisfying breakfast, you’ll head off on a comfortable transfer to  Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital. 
   • On your way will have lunch another beautiful Balkan city In the town known as the capital of the former Bulgarian Empire – Veliko Tarnovo.
   • Once you arrive at 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 7- Enchanting Transylvania Experience

   • Following breakfast, set out on full-day trip(optional-120eur, per person) to the enchanting region of Transylvania. 
   • 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 Caste tickets are included. Licensed tour guide.

   Route: 377km

8. Day 8- Bucharest Highlights and Farewell

   • 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 9- Flight to Istanbul

   • After the breakfast, board a flight (included, with variable departure times) to Istanbul, Turkey. 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

    • After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, pick up 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- Istanbul to Cappadocia (by Flight)

    • 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 (North of 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

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12. Day 12- Cappadocia to Istanbul (by 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