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12 Night Greece and Turkey Turkish Delight and Land Tour

From Athens (Port of Piraeus) to Athens (Port of Piraeus)
  • Douglas Mawson
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Douglas Mawson

Aurora Expeditions
4 Stars
  • Cruise #: 13951305
  • Departs: Wed, Aug 19, 2026
  • Returns: Mon, Aug 31, 2026
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    Rates

    Includes

    Other Dates

    Oceanview $9,436
    Balcony $10,316
    Suite $16,396
    *Prices are per person based on double occupancy
    Includes taxes & fees
    Tap the "Send Quote" button to get a quote include unadvertised prices including Senior, Military and Resident promotions.
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    Itinerary Summary

    Day by Day Details

    Land Segment of Itinerary

    Wednesday - Aug 19, 2026
    Day
    1
    Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    • Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    Welcome to Athens. On arrival at Athens Airport make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet Aurora Expeditions representative, followed by a transfer to your group hotel. At the hotel, visit the hospitality desk in the lobby to meet the team who will provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Athens. You will also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number on the ship. This evening offers time to relax in preparation for tomorrow. Accommodation: Athens Hotel ...
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    Land Segment of Itinerary

    Thursday - Aug 20, 2026
    Day
    2
    Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    • Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    After breakfast, enjoy a morning 'Your Choice' experience. Walk in Socrates' footsteps, explore the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, or immerse yourself in Athens' vibrant food scene with a local guide. You can then rejoin the motorcoach to return to your hotel or take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Plaka district. This charming area is filled with streets and alleys lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops-ideal for a bite to eat or picking up gifts (lunch at your own expense). Tonight, we kick off our journey with a Welcome Event, celebrating Greek style. With a rich recorded history spanning 3,500 years, Athens is a city brimming with stories. Widely hailed as the 'cradle of civilization' and revered as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and theater, Athens seamlessly merges its illustrious past with its vibrant present. This bustling metropolis, home to three million inhabitants, is adorned with a wealth of ancient sites that punctuate its landscape like temples, iconic columns, and former city centers. Athens' influence in antiquity transcended its borders, ushering in a Golden Age characterized by political discussion, education, and philosophy, hosting luminaries such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. The democratic principles forged in Athens laid the groundwork for modern governance systems worldwide. Yet, Athens is more than just a relic of ancient history. As a historical seat of power, it has weathered waves of invasions, shaping its contemporary identity with a diverse fusion of architectural styles, culinary delights, and cultural traditions. Whether you are wandering amid ancient ruins or indulging in the flavors of modern Greek cuisine, Athens offers a captivating journey through the ages, beckoning travelers from across the globe to explore its timeless allure. ...
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    Land Segment of Itinerary

    Friday - Aug 21, 2026
    Day
    3
    Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    • Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    • Bus Travel

    Cruise Segment of Itinerary

    Day 3 - Friday - Aug 21, 2026
    Day
    3
    Cruise Begins
    • Cruise Begins
    • Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    Enjoy a leisurely morning in Athens. Revisit your favorite sites, explore the city's markets and shops, or discover hidden treasures on an independent exploration. Athens' extensive metro network makes it easy to navigate the city, while the warm Greek hospitality ensures you are never far from helpful advice on how to make the most of your time. Mid-afternoon, we transfer from our hotel to the port of Piraeus to board the Douglas Mawson and sail towards the famed island of Mykonos. This evening, we enjoy a 'Welcome Aboard' dinner where we meet our crew and Aurora Expeditions team. ...
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    Saturday - Aug 22, 2026
    Day
    4
    Chios, Greece
    • Chios, Greece
    Today's port of call is an island that remains "off the tourist trail" gifting us a true insight into Greek island life. Chios, an island steeped in history and myth, draws its name from Chios, the son of Poseidon. In antiquity, it was a pioneering city-state, known for minting coins and developing a democratic system akin to Athens. The island played a significant naval role, initially allied with Athens and later gaining independence, before numerous invasions finally handed it to Greece. Today, Chios blends its ancient legacy with a tight-knit community life. Explore the streets of our port of call, Myrina, this afternoon to admire Ottoman fountains, a picturesque town square with marble works and palm trees, and a lively waterfront, all clad with the unique mastic resin that defines the island's character. This morning, we will enjoy an excursion to the heart and soul of the island. ...
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    Sunday - Aug 23, 2026
    Day
    5
    Myrina, Greece
    • Myrina, Greece
    Located in the northern Aegean, Lemnos is one of Greece's larger islands, having been captured from Turkey just over a century ago. Its tranquil lands offer a retreat off the beaten path, making it perfect for travelers seeking a break from the commercial tourist enterprises of its southern counterpart. With a rich history stretching back to antiquity, the island is renowned for its archaeological sites and its significant role in Greek mythology as the legendary homeland of the god Hephaestus. In more recent times, Lemnos served as a hospital during the evacuation of wounded from the Gallipoli landings, endearing it to ANZACs. The island is home to three Commonwealth war cemeteries, commemorating this connection. Additionally, the Australian town of Lemnos, established in Victoria in 1927 as a settlement for returning World War I soldiers, was named in honor of the island. During World War II, Lemnos was used as a German naval base. The economic hardships of the 1950s led to significant emigration due to widespread poverty. Visiting Lemnos offers a unique opportunity to explore both the ancient tales of Greece and the modern challenges the islands of Greece have faced. ...
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    Monday - Aug 24, 2026
    Day
    6
    Istanbul, Turkey
    • Istanbul, Turkey
    After a morning at sea, we enjoy lunch onboard as we sail the Sea of Marmara and navigate the Bosphorus Strait en route to Istanbul. Approaching this fabled city by sea is quite an epic feat, gifting us dramatic views of the city's minareted skyline. Istanbul, a city steeped in exotic allure, conjures visions of belly dancing, bustling bazaars, and flying carpets. Spanning Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, this vibrant metropolis serves as Turkey's cultural and economic hub, blending ancient Byzantine and Ottoman legacies with modern dynamism. Formerly known as Constantinople in honor of the Roman Emperor Constantine, Istanbul captivates from its iconic landmarks-the domes of the Hagia Sophia and the towering minarets of the Blue Mosque, to the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, where centuries-old trade traditions thrive amid carpets, spices, and crafts. Istanbul exudes a palpable sense of history that excites the senses. We disembark and meet our guides for a local's view of Istanbul. Catching a ride on one of Istanbul's popular trams, we head to the hilltop suburb of Sultanahmet, where we spend the afternoon with Constantinople's iconic trifecta: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. As we explore the Sultan's precinct, our guides tell tales of the city's celebrated past. Begin your journey at the ancient Hippodrome, once Constantinople's vibrant sporting and social center. This historic venue hosted thrilling chariot races and political events, and today, in the Hippodrome area, remnants like the Obelisk (erected by the Egyptian Pharaoh Tuthmosis), the Serpent Column, and the Column of Constantine still stand as silent witnesses to their storied past. From here, we admire the venerated Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and iconic blue Iznik tiles, while our guides explain the profound influence of the Islamic faith on the lives of the city's inhabitants. Just steps away is the Ayasofya, or the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Originally built as the "greatest church in Christendom", the Hagia Sophia now stands as a testament to time and the dynamic history of the city. The highlight of our afternoon is a visit to the Sultan's private residence, Topkapi Palace. Here, we explore the state rooms, museum, and grounds of this opulent palace. Designed to reflect a tented lodge, Topkapi captures the essence of the nomadic Ottoman lifestyle in a permanent structure. Libidinous sultans, ambitious courtiers, attractive concubines, and scheming eunuchs lived and worked here for four centuries when Constantinople was the heart of the Ottoman Empire. A visit to the palace's opulent pavilions, jewel-filled treasury, and sprawling grounds offers a fascinating glimpse into their lives. (Note: This tour includes an interior visit to Topkapi Palace. A visit to the interior of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia is included in a Grand Mosque 'Your Choice' experience.) Reboarding our tram, we bid farewell to our guides and return to the ship to watch the sun set over Istanbul, while enjoying dinner. We will remain moored in Istanbul overnight, allowing you to explore and experience more of this vibrant city tomorrow. ...
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    Tuesday - Aug 25, 2026
    Day
    7
    Istanbul, Turkey
    • Istanbul, Turkey
    The 'Your Choice' experiences offer an eclectic collection today. Choose to explore the city's Islamic masterpieces, shop until you drop at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, or join a street food tour of the city's famous spice market. Our experiences are all in the morning today, with time to explore Istanbul for yourself before we set sail in the late afternoon. We will travel on the local trams with our guides, to avoid Istanbul's famous traffic congestion, giving us even more time to enjoy this fascinating city. ...
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    Wednesday - Aug 26, 2026
    Day
    8
    Anzac Cove, Turkey
    • Anzac Cove, Turkey
    • Canakkale, Turkey
    At sunrise, we anchor off the historic landing beaches of the Gallipoli campaign at ANZAC Cove. After honoring the courageous souls who fought and fell here during WWI, we sail to the nearby port of Canakkale. This morning, we will delve into the history of two pivotal battles fought over 3,000 years apart, exploring their profound impact on the region. We return to the ship for lunch and sail south, following the rugged coastline and waterfront towns towards one of the ancient world's iconic cities. ...
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    Thursday - Aug 27, 2026
    Day
    9
    Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
    • Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
    Kusadasi, Turkey's beloved seaside town, draws visitors with its vibrant bazaars, waterfront cafes, and nearby beaches. This historic settlement, with roots in the Leleges and Carian civilizations, is close to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the Ottoman era, Kusadasi thrived as a key port city, highlighted by the impressive Kusadasi Castle, or Pigeon Island, built to defend against pirates. The 17th-century Okuz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai, originally for traders and their animals, now operates as a hotel and marketplace. A day in Kusadasi offers a delightful mix of historical significance, Ottoman architecture, and lively shopping. ...
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    Friday - Aug 28, 2026
    Day
    10
    Bodrum, Turkey
    • Bodrum, Turkey
    We awake in the popular resort town of Bodrum, ready for a day of fascinating experiences in a city rich with ancient artefacts. Once known as Halicarnassus, Bodrum was the birthplace of the Greek historian and geographer Herodotus, who wrote detailed accounts of the Greco-Persian wars and earned the nickname "Father of History". The town is home to the few ruins of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the impressive Bodrum Castle built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century. Renowned for its handcrafted wooden gulets plying the Turkish Riviera, Bodrum offers a captivating blend of ancient wonders, Ottoman heritage, and local craftsmanship, making it an intriguing destination. ...
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    Saturday - Aug 29, 2026
    Day
    11
    Marmaris, Turkey
    • Marmaris, Turkey
    At the center of the 'Turquoise Coast' sits the ever-popular town of Marmaris. Filled with colorful waterfront cafes, traditional market shops, and restaurants serving local fare, Marmaris is a delightful place to spend a day. This vibrant town is renowned for its busy marina and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the Marmaris Castle with its in-house museum, offering insights into the region's rich history. Under Ottoman rule, Marmaris flourished as a strategic port, which led to the construction of the castle by the 'man to rule the world', Suleyman the Magnificent, in the 16th century. The Ottoman influence is also evident in the town's architecture and layout, blending seamlessly with its modern amenities and picturesque setting, making Marmaris a popular stop on the Turkish Riviera. ...
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    Sunday - Aug 30, 2026
    Day
    12
    • Skala, Patmos, Greece
    We return to Greece on the island of Patmos, where we spend a morning on one of the 'Your Choice' experiences. Returning to the ship for lunch, we sail for Athens in the early afternoon, enjoying a Farewell Dinner onboard this evening as the sun sets over another perfect Greek day.
    Monday - Aug 31, 2026
    Day
    13
    Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    • Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    • Cruise Ends

    Land Segment of Itinerary

    Day 13 - Monday - Aug 31, 2026
    Day
    13
    • Bus Travel
    • Athens (Port of Piraeus), Greece
    After breakfast, disembark the ship and say farewell to your fellow passengers before being transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Consider scheduling your departure for after 1 pm today to ensure you have sufficient time to catch your flight.
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