Istanbul to Athens with Explora Journeys

With included UK airport lounge access, your holiday begins in relaxed fashion, even before your flight to Istanbul. Once you arrive on the shores of the Bosphorus, you’ll be met and transferred to your luxurious hotel, your home for the next three nights. Having settled in and adjusted to the pace of life in your new surroundings, it’s time to head out and explore, taking in Istanbul’s rich array of European, Arabic and Asian heritage, showcased in everything from grand mosques to bustling souks and charming pavement cafes.

Stay: Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus (Deluxe)

Enjoy a last day exploring the sights of Istanbul before boarding your luxury ship, EXPLORA I. With its spectacular array of onboard amenities, from elegant suites, inspired by the finest European luxury hotels, to fine dining restaurants and a sumptuous spa, it’s the ultimate home-away-from-home for the next seven nights as you take in the treasures of the Aegean Sea.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe)

Spend a relaxing day at sea as you acquaint yourself with your ship, perhaps taking the chance to soak up some sun out on deck or enjoy a splash in one of the pools – the conservatory pool is a particular highlight. Naturally, throughout the day, you’ll be treated to a full spread of gourmet dining at a range of different venues.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe)

Sail into Santorini this morning Romantic for the chance to explore what is one of the world’s most enchanting islands, home to rock-set whitewashed houses, paved pathways, black-sand beaches and terracotta cliffs. Let optional tours introduce you to the island’s many geological and architectural delights, from blue-domed churches to an active volcano, which you’ll explore in the company of experts. Otherwise, take the chance to glide through sapphire seas in a catamaran, taste local wine, eat freshly caught seafood or relish in the great Greek tradition of breaking plates. Later, settle in for a slow moonlit dinner high on a hilltop, just in time to enjoy that world-famous sunset.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe)

Rising from the sparkling Aegean Sea, Rhodes is a sun-kissed island jewel, which was once home t to Cicero and Caesar. It’s a rich history that still echoes among the stone-paved lanes of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Follow the footsteps of the Knights of St. John and their Turkish conquerors who left everything from fascinating monuments to fountains set within shaded squares. Take the chance to explore the imposing Suleiman Mosque with its tall minaret, then enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Byzantine Church or head into to the hills for heavenly views of traditional whitewashed houses dotted among the landscape. You’ll also learn of the legend of the 100-foot Colossus, a wonder of the ancient world now replaced with the twin bronze deer that guard the island’s Mandraki Harbour.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe)

Returning to Turkey, today you’ll explore the historic port town of Bodrum, taking the opportunity to contrast its old-world heritage with a vibrant, modern buzz. Join expert guides to unwrap the secrets of the town’s mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, before savouring fresh fish and meze, or relaxing in a café with a cup of Bodrum’s famously strong coffee. Otherwise, you might delve into the surrounding nature with a visit to Bafa Lake, or wander amongst olive groves and bougainvillea to spot hundreds of different bird species. Finally, for those that fancy a day on the sea, a private gullet cruise is the ideal way to explore the coast with its crystal clear water and hidden coves.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe)

Pretty Samos is said to have welcomed many greats of the ancient world to its sandy shores, including Herodotus, Aesop, Pythagoras and Cleopatra. Hera held her wedding to Zeus here, and you’ll have the chance to retrace her steps among crumbling columns and coastal temple ruins. The island also has a delightfully verdant interior to explore, with hikes bringing you among hidden springs and waterfalls and between mountain villages, churches and monasteries. Just don’t miss the chance to sample the acclaimed muscat wine. Alongside a wealth of superb beaches, be sure to spend some time at the excellent archaeological museum in the harbour town of Pythagorio and wander the fishing village of Kokkari.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe)

Your final full day will be spent in Paros, with its ancient ruins, traditional tavernas and blue-domed churches. Perhaps take the chance to head to Parikia with its Byzantine monastery or take a ferry to explore the caves of Antiparos. Further highlights can be found at the island’s tiny but fascinating museum, and among the labyrinthine lanes of Náoussa – a Venetian gem. Otherwise, take the chance to relax on the beach, then sample a home-cooked mezze feast in a whitewashed tavernas, or get active with the likes of windsurfing, kitesurfing, diving or swimming.

Stay: EXPLORA I (Deluxe) 

Arrive in Athens this morning where you’ll disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Otherwise, speak to our experts about extending your stay in the Greek capital.