Athens & Istanbul (Both end of Aegean Sea)

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be warmly welcomed at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and acclimate.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: N/A

After breakfast, meet your private guide at your hotel and begin a full-day exploration of Istanbul’s historic peninsula.

Hagia Sophia – Originally built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, this architectural masterpiece has served as a cathedral, mosque, museum, and today again a mosque. It remains one of the most significant monuments of both the Christian and Islamic worlds.

Hippodrome Square – Once the center of Byzantine public life and chariot races, today the square features monuments such as the German Fountain and the ancient obelisks.

Basilica Cistern – An impressive underground water reservoir constructed during the Roman era, famous for its atmospheric columns and the mysterious Medusa heads.

Blue Mosque – Built in the early 17th century for Sultan Ahmet I, this imperial mosque is celebrated for its elegant proportions and exquisite İznik tile decoration.

Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, offering over 4,000 shops selling carpets, leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and more.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, meet your guide for another full day in Istanbul.

Topkapi Palace – The former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years, serving as the administrative and judicial heart of the empire. Highlights include its courtyards, imperial collections, and renowned Treasury.

Spice Bazaar – A vibrant market filled with spices, sweets, teas, and local delicacies.

Grand Bazaar – Additional time to explore or shop at your leisure.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise by public boat, sailing between Europe and Asia and viewing Istanbul’s palaces, waterfront mansions, and historic fortresses.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast and hotel check-out, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arrival, meet your representative and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

oday explores the cultural and historical heart of Athens.

Meet your guide and begin your visit to the Acropolis of Athens, including:

• Propylaea (monumental entrance)

• Temple of Athena Nike

• Parthenon

• Erechtheion and the Caryatids

Continue to the Acropolis Museum, home to the Archaic Gallery, original Caryatids, and the Parthenon sculptures.

Optional lunch in the Plaka or Makrygianni district. An optional short walk through Plaka or a stop at the Areopagus viewpoint may be included.

Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

A scenic excursion combining mythology, coastal beauty, and relaxation.

Drive along the Athenian Riviera, with optional stops near Vouliagmeni or Lake Vouliagmeni.

Enjoy lunch at a seaside taverna (optional).

Continue to Cape Sounion to visit the Temple of Poseidon, dramatically situated above the Aegean Sea. Learn about the mythology of Poseidon and King Aegeus while enjoying free time for photos.

Return to Athens in the late afternoon.

Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

A relaxed walking tour focusing on daily life and the continuity between ancient and modern Athens.

Begin at Syntagma Square, where you will observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Parliament.

Continue through:

• Plaka (Athens’ oldest district)

• Anafiotika (picturesque island-style neighborhood)

• Tower of the Winds area

Visit the Ancient Agora of Athens, including:

• Stoa of Attalos

• Temple of Hephaestus

Conclude in the Monastiraki district with free time for coffee or shopping.

Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to Athens Airport or the cruise port for your onward journey.

End of Services

Although Bosphorus Gate has handled most of the planning for your trip, a few final preparations will ensure a smoother, safer, and more comfortable journey. Please review the information below before your departure.

Travel Companions

If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked under a separate reservation, please inform us in advance. Once you arrive, adjusting rooming or service arrangements may not be possible.

Essential Pre-Trip Preparation

A bit of early planning will greatly improve your travel experience.

• Documents: Ensure your passport, visa, driver’s license, and other travel documents are valid. Create physical and digital copies and store them separately.
• Medications: Bring enough prescription medication for the entire trip and keep it in your carry-on. Include a list of your medications with dosages and generic names.
• Carry-On Essentials: Keep one change of clothing and key items in your carry-on in case of lost or delayed luggage. Choose easily identifiable bags if you must check luggage.
• Health Items: Consider packing a small supply of over-the-counter medicines such as pain relievers, anti-diarrheals, antacids, and cold medicine.
• Electronics & Liquids: Keep valuables in your carry-on. Place liquid containers in sealed plastic bags to prevent leaks.
• Bags for Sightseeing: Many museums restrict large bags. Bring a small shoulder bag or purse for daily excursions.
• Alarms: A small portable alarm or phone alarm is recommended, as not all accommodations provide reliable wake-up services.

Travel Insurance & Health Precautions

We strongly recommend purchasing travel medical insurance, including coverage for emergency care and evacuation. Review policies carefully so you understand what is included.

Consult your healthcare provider regarding required or recommended vaccinations for Türkiye. You may also check:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• World Health Organization

Travelers with chronic medical conditions, mobility limitations, advanced pregnancy, or mental health challenges should consult their physicians before joining an active travel program.

Staying Healthy While Traveling

Simple habits can help prevent illness:

• Eat Carefully: Try new foods gradually. In some areas, avoid street food, raw vegetables, and unpeeled fruits.
• Hydrate Safely: Drink bottled water and avoid ice made from tap water.
• Hygiene: Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer.
• Protection: Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and any required allergy medications. A medical alert bracelet is recommended for those with serious allergies.
• First Aid: A small kit with bandages, antiseptic cream, and basic medications is useful for everyday needs.

Communication

Mobile network coverage varies. Contact your mobile provider to confirm whether your plan supports service in Türkiye or consider purchasing an international plan or local SIM/eSIM.

For more detailed cultural tips, destination highlights, and practical advice, please read our full Turkey Travel Guide.

Important Information for Your Escorted Tour in Türkiye

Motor Coach Policy

For fairness and comfort, all escorted tours follow a mandatory seat rotation system on motor coaches for more than 20 passengers. Your Tour Guide will organize the rotation schedule.

Holiday & Weather Adjustments

Travel dates that coincide with religious holidays, national celebrations, or unexpected conditions may lead to temporary closures of monuments and sites—sometimes without advance notice. In such cases, your itinerary may be adjusted.
Additionally, restorations at major landmarks are common and may affect visibility. Tours will continue as planned, but Bosphorus Gate may modify the itinerary when necessary.

For privacy reasons, your Tour Guide will not arrange group photos or collect email addresses for group lists.

Optional Tours

Guides may offer optional excursions for guests who have not pre-purchased them. Payment is typically accepted in cash or by credit card, unless noted otherwise. (This applies only to escorted tours, not Independent Packages.)

Money Matters

• We recommend carrying a small amount of local currency. You will have the opportunity to exchange money in Istanbul; your guide will direct you to reputable exchange offices.
• Keep a simple currency conversion chart with you for easy reference.
• Do not carry excessive cash. ATMs are widely available and typically dispense Turkish Lira, with some also offering USD or EUR.
• Make sure you know your ATM PIN numerically, as international keypads may not include letters.

Language

English is not widely spoken everywhere. However, staff at major tourist sites generally speak basic English.

Shopping Stops

Our escorted itineraries include a few curated shopping visits to reputable local shops or cooperatives. These stops showcase authentic Turkish craftsmanship, including carpets, ceramics, and leather goods. All selected locations are vetted for quality and authenticity.

Safety & Common-Sense Tips

Even while traveling, keep your usual safety habits in mind:

• Always wear your seat belt when available.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention with expensive jewelry or visible valuables.
• Distribute important items—cash, credit cards, passport—so they are not all stored together.
• Use your hotel safe and avoid leaving valuables unsecured in your room or on the bus.
• Keep photocopies or digital copies of your passport and credit cards stored safely.
• When exploring independently, travel in pairs or small groups when possible.
• Keep valuables (cameras, electronics, jewelry) in your carry-on, not in checked luggage.
• Credit cards are widely accepted and safer than carrying large amounts of cash.
• Avoid touching or approaching unfamiliar animals; wildlife may carry diseases or behave unpredictably.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is a personal choice, but the following recommendations may help you plan for your trip. Gratuities can be given in local currency or the equivalent amount in U.S. dollars, where accepted.

• Tour Guide: US $40  per day
• Driver: US $20  per day

Note: Tips for hotel porters, waitstaff, and other services listed in your itinerary are already included unless otherwise noted.