From Istanbul to Crete (15 Days)

Honeymoon Wishes Tour

With a private Villa stay in Crete
A 15-Day Mediterranean Vacation
From Istanbul to Athens and The Greek Isle of Crete

Perfect for Family Vacation, your honeymoon or wedding anniversary dream vacation. Ultra Deluxe Edition: Staying at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel or Istanbul Four Seasons Hotels. What’s your preferred destination around the Aegean Sea? The Classic sites beckon with the glories of empires past. Thriving bazaars exude the mystery of the Orient. Hidden coves, sun, beaches and sails seduce you to a legendary island removed from the everyday world.

You’ll gaze in awe at the treasures of Istanbul. You’ll ascend to the Acropolis in Athens, and plumb the pleasures of the Plaka. And who else is offering our Private Tours to Argolis and Delphi? Pack your bags, and take off on any day of your choosing, from April through October. All tours and transfers are on a private basis with your private air-conditioned vehicle and private chauffeur.

DAY 1 – Start in ISTANBUL or in Athens –Arrive on any day of your choosing, from April through October
Our local personnel will be on hand when you arrive at the international airport, to escort you to your lodgings, where a fruit basket awaits.

Choice of Hotels:

• Kempinski Ciragan Palace or the Four Seasons (Standard Room)
• Inter.Continental (club level room), Hyatt (club level room)

Private air-conditioned vehicle, private chauffeur. You’ll have time to rest up from your flight, and stretch your legs as you make your initial discoveries of this capital of Byzantine emperors and Ottoman sultans, where East and West have long clashed, met, and blended.

DAY 2 – ISTANBUL (BL) Private car/driver/Guide
Today we’ll visit historic and modern Istanbul. High points will include the Hippodrome, and the stunning Blue Mosque. Then it’s on to Aya Sophia, whose heritage as both a basilica and emblem of Islamic architecture neatly sums up the strains that have created modern Turkey. We’ll fit in the fabled Topkapi palace, with its formal gardens, salons of state and stately boudoirs of the sultan’s harem; as well as the Treasury, whose collection includes priceless Chinese porcelain. Private air-conditioned vehicle, private chauffeur, private guide.

DAY 3 – ISTANBUL (BL) Private car/driver/Guide
This morning, we’ll stretch our legs as we take in the sights, sounds, and aromas of Istanbul up-close. We’ll start off with our guide to re-discover the Belle Epoque, when Constantinople was the Paris of the East. From the traditional Karaköy district, where overseas bankers and shipping companies had their headquarters, we’ll ascend via the Tünel-an antique subway line-up to Istiklal Caddesi, a sedate nineteenth-century thoroughfare lined with former embassies. We’ll stop in at the tekke of the renowned whirling dervishes. And in keeping with the traditional surroundings, we’ll be hosted to tea at the landmark Pera Palace Hotel. We’ll continue on foot, at least as far as Galatasaray Square, and lunch in the Çicek Pasaji (Flower Passage); then it’s on to busy Taksim Square to rendezvous with our coach. We’ll venture farther a field in the afternoon, to Yildiz Palace Park and the Ihlamur Kasri, a refined little palace south of Yildiz, and the Military History Museum in Harbiye, arriving in time for the strains of Mehter, the traditional Ottoman military band. Return to your hotel. Later on and after a brief rest, your driver will call on you for your dinner at a charming local Turkish restaurant.

Private air-conditioned vehicle, private chauffeur, private guide. For families with children, of course we will break for ice cream, and it is on the house with our compliments.

DAY 4 – Istanbul-BOSPHORUS – (BL)
Istanbul’s history was formed by the Bosphorus, the winding strait that separates Europe and Asia, connecting the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. Now, as in ancient times, it is a maritime vital link between the countries bordering the Black Sea and those in the rest of the world. Today we take a leisurely cruise northward along this historic waterway. Along its shores are ranged palaces great and small-Topkapi, Dolmabahçe, Beylerbeyi, Küçüksu, Hünkar Iskelesi. Four great fortresses rise on the hills, reminding us that to control the Bosphorus was to control the destinies of nations, we break for lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll venture into the legendary Grand Bazaar, there will be occasion to assemble your own treasure from over 5000 stands, kiosks, and shops, filled with carpets, leatherwork, and treasures and trinkets from all points eastward. Private air-conditioned vehicle, private chauffeur, private guide. For families with children, of course we will break for ice cream, and it is on the house with our compliments.

DAY 5 – Istanbul – (B)
Breakfast at the hotel, then we visit Yildiz Palace Park and the Ihlamur Kasri, a mini-palace south of Yildiz, and finish up with a walking tour of the Egyptian Spice Bazaar. Istanbul’s Egyptian Bazaar (or Spice Market, Misir Çarsisi, built 1664) is filled with the fragrance of the exotic East. Remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city on your own.

DAY 6 – ISTANBUL, ATHENS (B)
After breakfast, we’ll call for you and escort you to the airport (private car and driver) where you’ll board your flight (Domestic air fare in Turkey and Istanbul/Athens are included in our rates, always in business class if/when available at the time of your booking). Fly to to Athens, where our representative will escort you to your hotel in the bustling city center. Private car and driver. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Stroll, browse for curios and treasures.

• Category A: Grand Bretagne Room. King George – Standard or classical Room
• Category B: Hilton, Marriott, Divani Palace Acropolis (Suite). The Divani Palace Acropolis has the best location in regard to being closest to the Acropolis.

DAY 7 – ATHENS (BL) Private Air Conditioned Vehicle – Private Chauffeur – Private Guide
Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Greek capital, today we have included a full day private tour of the Acropolis Museum, Syntagma Square, and the towering Acropolis, followed with an afternoon guided walk exploring the ancient Plaka district. Private car/driver and guide. Lunch is included at a charming local restaurant.

DAY 8 – ATHENS (B)
Full day on your own to explore Athens as you wish, or ask us for available optional tours.

Day 9 – Argolis – (BL) Private Air Conditioned Vehicle – Private Chauffeur – Private Guide
Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Bottled water, tea or coffee: included with your lunch.

Drive through Corinth crossing the famous canal to Mycenae where visits are Included to the Lion Gate, Tombs of Agememnon and Clytemnestra, and the Palace. Luncheon at the seaside resort town of Nauplion. Afterward, a short drive to the world famous theater of Epidaurus, known for its perfect acoustics. Visit the museum and Askelpeion. Return to Athens in the early evening.

DAY 10 – DELPHI (BL) Private Air Conditioned Vehicle – Private Chauffeur – Private Guide
Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Bottled water, tea or coffee: included with your lunch.

Tour Delphi, site of the famed oracle, at the foot of Mount Parnassus. During the Mycenaean period, the female deity of Earth was worshipped in the small settlement of Delphi. The development of the sanctuary and oracle though, began in the 8th century B.C. with the establishment of the cult of Apollo. Under the protection and administration of the Amphictyony, the sanctuary continued to be autonomous after the First Sacred War and, as a result, increased its panhellenic religious and political influence. The Pythian Games were re-organized, the sanctuary was enlarged and it was enriched with nice buildings, statues, and other offerings. In the 3rd century B.C. it came under the domination of the Aetolians and later, in 191 B.C., was conquered by the Romans. During the Roman occupation the site was sometimes plundered but was also favoured by some of the emperors. With the spread of Christianity, the sanctuary lost its religious meaning and was permanently closed down with a decree of emperor Theodosius the Great.

We tour the ruins of Delphi and its oracle, sacred to Apollo and Dionysus. Return to Athens in the early evening.

DAY 11 – ATHENS, Crete (B)
We’ll call for you and see you to the airport for your flight over the blue Aegean to Crete (Air fare included in economy class). All transfers are always on a private basis.

In Crete: You’ll have your own private villa or private bungalow accommodation with a private pool and, if available at the time of booking, a private jacuzzi as well.

Sample accommodation (Subject to change based on the availability at the time of booking):

An Aegean villa at the Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites. The Aegean Villa offers you a one master bedroom with en-suite bathroom plus two more bedrooms, these two bedrooms will share a bathroom. The villa of course offers as well a living room, fully equipped kitchen, a private pool and a Jacuzzi.

We may offer you as well a “Luxury Family Suite”: The Luxury Family Suites feature the same characteristics as the Luxury Senior Suites providing 2 master bedrooms (one with king size bed and the second with two twin size beds) with en-suite bathrooms. All feature balconies with sea view. Ideal for families or a group of four (max 5 guests).

We are delighted to offer you this, privately owned and family run luxury Villas and Suites. Standing majestically on the hillside overlooking the gulf of Mirabello, 18 stylish Villas with their own private pool and 10 luxury Suites, have been individually designed with the peacefulness and harmony of your home in mind.

Dedicated to the highest standards of hospitality, the Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites offer the ultimate guest experience to the most discerning traveller.

The Villas and the Suites are a destination for those expecting a special holiday, as they provide the rare combination of the facilities and services of a deluxe hotel together with the warm, private and exclusive atmosphere of your home!

A stylish Bar and 2 chic a la carte Restaurants operate for your convenience while an Elixir Spa Gallery is provided for those who like to work out.

DAY 12- CRETE (B)
Today in Heraklion. Explore on your own, or ask for an optional tour maybe to visit the unique 5000 year old museum, enjoy lunch in a local tavern, and tour to the three-story Minoan palace of Knossos. Enjoy your stay at the hotel or explore one of the beaches. Or explore on your own the Venetian part of the old town.

Day 13- CRETE (B)
Today in Heraklion. Explore on your own, or ask for an optional tour maybe to visit the unique 5000 year old museum, enjoy lunch in a local tavern, and tour to the three-story Minoan palace of Knossos. Enjoy your stay at the hotel or explore one of the beaches. Or explore on your own the Venetian part of the old town.

Day 14 – CRETE (B)
Today in Heraklion. Explore on your own, or ask for an optional tour maybe to visit the unique 5000 year old museum, enjoy lunch in a local tavern, and tour to the three-story Minoan palace of Knossos. Enjoy your stay at the hotel or explore one of the beaches. Or explore on your own the Venetian part of the old town.

DAY 15 – DEPARTURE (B) Private car / driver
Do your last-minute shopping this morning, or just linger deliciously in bed. Then we’ll call for you and see you to the airport to begin your journey home. If you wish to extend your stay, please let’s know in advance. Air fare is included in economy class back to Athens. If your international flight from Athens today is an early morning flight, then you may need to fly back to Athens the night before. Please let’s know in advance. Bon Voyage.

Family or Private Party:
Up to 5 guests in a Villa (children are counted in this number of 5)
Minimum required to book this villa: 4 adults:
Rate in US $, per person in double occupancy: $ 10,031.00

Children 10 years and younger sharing with 2 adults: 30% discount

Honeymooners and couples staying in “Luxury Suite”:
Rate in US $, per person in triple occupancy: $ 9750.00

The Luxury Senior Suites, ideal for couples or small families, have 1 master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and separate living room with tea and coffee facilities. Residential in style, each suite is uniquely and beautifully decorated. All feature fine elegant furnishings and stylish Italian fabrics. They offer either a balcony or terrace with sea or garden view. All Suites are close to the seasonally-heated main swimming pool with Jacuzzi and jet for swimming against the stream as well as the children’s pool.
Ideal for couples or small families (max 3 guests).
Children 10 years and younger sharing with 2 adults: 30% discount

Up to 4 guests in a Villa (children are counted in this number of 5)
Minimum required to book this villa: 4 adults:
Rate in US $, per person in double occupancy: $ 8950.00
Children 10 years and younger sharing with 2 adults: % 30 discount

Honeymooners and couples staying in a Suite:
Rate in US $, per person in double occupancy: $ 7880.00

Price includes:

• Air transportation from Istanbul to Athens, in business class, tax included, as per the itinerary & dates you choose (subject to availability).
• Air transportation in Greece, in economy class, tax included, as per the itinerary and dates you choose (subject to availability)
• Transportation between airport and hotels in Greece and Turkey, always private basis
• Private guided sightseeing as indicated in ATHENS and Istanbul, including entrance fees & preset
• Breakfast daily at the hotel. and pre-set menu lunches/dinner as indicated “L” / “D”.
• Accommodations with breakfast (B) as indicated below, or at comparable properties, according to availability.

Sample Hotels or Similar:

• Category A: Athens: King George, Gran Bretagne. St. George Lycabettus Hotel (Acropolis view room), or similar
  Istanbul: Kempinski Ciragan Palace, the Four Seasons or similar
• Crete (Deluxe property to be confirmed at the time of booking):
  Sample accommodation: Subject to change of course, this is subject to availability at the time of booking: An Aegean villa at the Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites.

Not Included:

• International air transportation from/to your home country.
• Gratuities for local personnel.
• Trip Cancellation insurance.
• Optional excursions, such as tours on Santorini, sailing, cruising.
• Any meal not specifically mentioned.
• Beverages, and personal expenses.
• Visa Fee for Turkey: (procure yours online in advance of travel at www.evisa.gov.tr/en/)
• Visa fee for Greece if needed based on your nationality.