Athens Highlights

The Athens and Acropolis tour will take you back in time to the glory of Classical Greece, where you will see countless historical landmarks. The Athens tour begins at the Panathinaikos Stadium, where the first modern Olympic games took place in 1896. On the bus, you will pass by impressive landmarks, including the Royal Palace, the Zappion Conference and Exhibition Hall, the Greek Parliament, and much more.

When you reach the site of the Acropolis, get off the bus to begin your Acropolis tour. The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a cultural landmark and ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. The Acropolis was used in Classical Greece as a refugee city in case of an attack from an outside force. This area contains many historical structures and museums. These structures include the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Sanctuary of Pandion, and so many more. Walk through the Dionysus Theater to the new Acropolis museum, which holds fascinating artifacts from Greek history. Admire the Caryatids and the magnificent Metopes of the Parthenon hall. The Acropolis tour will conclude as you are taken back to the heart of Athens. The Athens City and Acropolis tour is the ideal way to experience the history of Greece and to see for yourself this amazing city's ancient glory.

Depart the port in an air-conditioned vehicle for a scenic ride to Paleokastritsa Monastery, stopping along the way to sample some of the island's traditional tastes. Local honey and jams, homemade olives and olive paste, homemade wine, ouzo, and the ever-popular limoncello are waiting to tantalize your taste buds! Be sure to try the kumquat, a tangy citrus fruit brought over to Corfu from China in 1846.

Continue to Paleokastritsa Monastery, a large Byzantine complex dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Located atop a promontory, this 12th-century monastery is visible from every direction and offers breathtaking views of the island and the sea. Step inside to find Byzantine icons and other relics in the small, on-site museum. Within the complex, you will also see the cells of the monks as well as a traditional olive oil press.

While in the area you can opt to board a boat and visit the nearby Caves of Paleokastritsa just offshore (15 Euro not included). These 6 caves rising out of the crystal clear turquoise waters are an Insta-grammable moment you won't find anywhere else on the island.

From there you will make your way to Corfu's Old Town with its famous Greek, Venetian, French and British architecture. While here enjoy some free time to roam its ancient, narrow streets and see the highlights including Spianada Square, Liston, and the Old Fortress before your return trip to port. This 4-hour, small-group tour is a fabulous introduction to the beauty, history, and culture of Corfu. Book now.

Full Day Byzantine and Ottoman Marvels with Lunch

If you want to experience the marvels of Istanbul, this full-day sightseeing tour is the perfect option. Tour one of the most famous architectural creations in history, Hagia Sophia, and see the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque. This Istanbul tour will take you to all the highlights of the city in just one day.

The Hagia Sophia was originally an Orthodox patriarchal basilica before it was converted to a mosque. Famous specifically for its huge dome, it is often regarded as the essence of Byzantine architecture. As the largest cathedral in the world for over a thousand years, Hagia Sophia is an element of history that you will be amazed to see. Next, you will visit the Hippodrome of Constantinople, which is a famous square in the city of Istanbul. During the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great around AD 324, the Hippodrome functioned as a circus and entertainment center for the empire. Today the area is officially called Sultan Ahmet Square and is an exciting and historical stop on the tour.

The Blue Mosque, otherwise known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the next stop on this Istanbul sightseeing tour. The culmination of two centuries' worth of both Ottoman mosque and Byzantine church development makes this mosque overwhelming due to its size, brilliance, and majesty. Built in 1616, this mosque consists of awe-inspiring facades and interior architecture, which amazes visitors due to its size and beauty. The Topkapi Palace once housed the great Ottoman Sultans of history and now functions as a museum. At the Topkapi Palace, you will see imperial treasury as well as weapons, Chinese porcelain, calligraphy many more noteworthy artifacts. Travel back in time at this historical landmark to learn about the success and glory of the Ottoman Empire.

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world and contains over 4,000 shops within an area that consists of 61 streets. Inside the walled city of Istanbul, shop and enjoy the Turkish culture that this market has to offer. This full-day Istanbul tour is the best way to explore the marvels of Istanbul, paired with the convenience of a professional guide.

Please note: The Blue Mosque is closed from 30 minutes before until 30 minutes after prayer time, and 2 hours during Friday noon prayer. The covered area of the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and will be substituted with a visit to the Spice Market. Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be substituted with a visit to Dolmabahce Palace. If you are traveling with children please make sure to have documentation showing the child's current age for site entrances.