Turkey, Greece & Italy - Student Travel Tour

Turkey, Greece & Italy (2012)

BACK TO VIEW TRIPS

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

DAY 1 - FLIGHT

Overnight flight

Overnight flight
Board your overnight flight, bound for Europe.

DAY 2 - ISTANBUL

Arrive in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey’s largest city. After clearing customs, you’ll meet your full-time tour director and the rest of your group. Istanbul is one of the world’s hottest destinations. In recent years there’s been a huge influx of trendy bars, clubs and restaurants, all blending nicely with the wide assortment of museums and sights to see during the day.

Dinner is included today

DAY 3 - ISTANBUL

Sightseeing tour of Istanbul (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Istanbul (local guide)
A local guide introduces you to Istanbul’s major sights. See the ancient Hippodrome and visit the Aya Sofia, Istanbul’s most famous monument. It has been an Orthodox basilica, a mosque and now a museum. Then visit the incredible Blue Mosque, and finish your tour with a stop at Istanbul’s legendary Grand Bazaar, where you can browse and barter for all kinds of treasures, from brassware to spices.

Optional Bosphorus cruise (extra cost)

Optional Bosphorus cruise ($65 pre-booked)
Join a half-day cruise through the Bosphorus Straits, the waterway that separates Europe and Asia. Throughout history this area has attracted many different cultures, thanks to its strategic location and scenic beauty. This afternoon’s trip will begin with a visit to a local spice market and the Rustem Pasha Mosque, one of the most impressive Ottoman mosques in Istanbul. Then board the 2-hour cruise at Tarabya Bay. Lunch is included.

Welcome dinner

Welcome dinner
Get to know the other travelers in your group over tonight’s included dinner.

DAY 4 - CANAKKALE • TROY

Travel to Canakkale

Travel to Canakkale
Take a ferry from Eceabat to Canakkale. The city is known for its crucial role during the Battle of Gallipoli in WWI.

Sightseeing tour of Troy (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Troy (local guide)
Head to Troy, where beautiful Helen incited the Trojan War in the 12th century B.C. The most famous part of the ten-year war was the end, when the Greeks hid in a wooden horse that the Trojans mistakenly thought was a peace offering. Tour the ancient site, and then later travel on to the coastal town of Dikili.

Dinner is included today

DAY 5 - PERGAMON

Guided excursion to Pergamon (local guide)

Guided excursion to Pergamon (local guide)
Travel to Pergamon, where a local guide will show you the sights. There a was a time when Pergamon was one of the world’s most important cities. A highlight of the tour is a visit to the Acropolis. Later, spend some free time on the beach.

Dinner is included today

DAY 6 - EPHESUS • KUSADASI

Sightseeing tour of Ephesus (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Ephesus (local guide)
Travel to Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean region’s best-preserved classical cities. See all the highlights, including the Forum, the Odeon, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika, the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Theatre. You may also have the chance to see the nearby house where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her last days.

Travel to Kusadasi

Travel to Kusadasi
Continue on to the picturesque Turkish village of Kusadasi, on the Aegean coast.

Dinner is included today

DAY 7 - PATMOS

Board cruise

Board cruise
Set sail on a three-day cruise. With stops in Patmos and Santorini, get your fill of scenic beauty, rich history and plain old rest and relaxation. The cruise line will offer optional excursions during your island stops, and on board the ship you’ll have plenty of time for games, shopping, swimming and lying in the sun.

Cruise to Patmos

Cruise to Patmos
Patmos is one of the 12 Dodecanese Islands that extend off the western coast of Turkey. After many centuries of foreign rule, Patmos still holds on to its Greek language and culture. The cruise company will offer an optional visit to St. John’s Monastery, with a panoramic view of the whole island and the surrounding sea. This optional includes a visit to a nearby grotto, where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation. The cruise line will also offer a scenic island tour. (Please note: Due to scheduling, you may only have time to do one optional.)

DAY 8 - SANTORINI

Cruise to Santorini

Cruise to Santorini
Santorini is a small group of volcanic islands full of amazing landscapes. The cruise line offers an optional excursion to Oia, a one-time fishing village built on red rocks overlooking the Aegean Sea, and Thera, a small town perched on the caldera rim. You can also go on the cruise line’s optional Volcanic Shores cruise, which navigates the Palea and Nea Kameni islets. (Please note: Due to scheduling, you may only have time to do one optional.)

DAY 9 - ATHENS

Disembark cruise

Disembark cruise
Your cruise ends near Athens. Named after Ancient Greece’s number one goddess, Athens today is a cool mix of ancient sites and modern urban life. Its outdoor café culture and pedestrian-friendly streets make it a great walking city.

Sightseeing tour of Athens (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Athens (local guide)
Go back in time on a sightseeing tour with a local guide. See the Temple of Athena Nike, which once housed a gold statue of Athena. Pass the stadium where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896. The highlight of the tour is a walk up to the top of the Acropolis, where you’ll get to see the legendary Parthenon up close.

Walking tour of Athens

Walking tour of Athens
Your tour director will take you to some of the other can't-miss sights of Athens. Walk through the always-busy Plaka district at the base of the Acropolis. This is a big hangout for visitors and locals, and a good place to meet up. You’ll also get to see Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus—construction on this temple began in 515 B.C.

DAY 10 - ATHENS

Optional Saronic Islands Cruise (extra cost)

Optional Saronic Islands Cruise ($90 pre-booked)
Head out for a day of island-hopping in the beautiful blue Saronic Gulf. Spend time on Aegina, Poros, and Hydra—these three picturesque islands are popular getaway spots for Athenians, who come for the beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and amazing seaside landscapes.

Free time in Athens (night)

Free time in Athens (night)
Top 5 nightlife suggestions:
1. Psirri District – This up-and-coming neighborhood is packed full of outdoor café bars.
2. Thiseion District – Located under the Acropolis, this is a central area with a thriving nightlife.
3. Akrotiri – A nice sea breeze keeps you cool on the dance floor in this open-air club.
4. Dora Stratou Dance Theatre – See more than 75 performers in a traditional folk dancing show.
5. Gagarin 205 Live Music Space – Catch the biggest international music acts here, as well as local groups and DJs during the week.

For more ideas and details, see our Lonely Planet city guide for Athens.

DAY 11 - DELPHI

Travel to Delphi

Travel to Delphi
Continue to Delphi, home of the all-knowing Oracle. Delphi sits up on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Look up for amazing views of the cliffs of Parnassus, then look down for even more amazing views of a plain of olive trees that stretches as far as you can see.

DAY 12 - DELPHI • NIGHT FERRY

Sightseeing tour of Delphi (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Delphi (local guide)
A local guide will introduce you to Delphi, site of Apollo's famed Oracle. Back in the day, Greece's military leaders would leave gifts for the Oracle in hopes of good fortune in battle. Visit the Temple of Apollo, where legend says the god communicated with mortals. Also visit the Delphi Museum, whose treasures date back to 550 B.C.

Night ferry from Patras

Night ferry from Patras
Continue on to coastal Patras, where you'll board your overnight ferry bound for Italy.

DAY 13 - POMPEII • ROME

Sightseeing tour of Pompeii (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Pompeii (local guide)
Arrive this morning in Italy and travel to Pompeii for an amazing trip into the preserved past. Doomed by the super-hot ash from Mt. Vesuvius looming above it, Pompeii is a remarkably intact ancient Roman town. Walk the streets and see the villas, temples and bath houses.

Travel to Rome

Travel to Rome
Continue through the Italian countryside to Rome. Though its imperial heyday was a couple thousand years ago, Rome today is as alive and action-packed as any European capital. Discover the busy coffee bars, the amazing food, and the incredible ancient sights.

Free time in Rome (night)

Free time in Rome (night)
Top 5 nightlife suggestions:
1. Campo de’ Fiori – Lots of young people gather early inside and outside the bars in this area, making it a good starting point.
2. San Lorenzo area – Popular with students, this area is known for its reggae scene and many clubs.
3. Big Mama – Blues lovers head to this music club in Trastavere.
4. Testaccio – There is plenty of action on this circular street lined with bars and nightclubs.
5. Opera – For a real cultural experience, go see an opera in the country where opera was born.

For more ideas and details, see our Lonely Planet city guide for Rome.

DAY 14 - ROME

Sightseeing tour of Rome (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Rome (local guide)
Go way back into the past with a local guide. Rome was the center of the Western world back in the day, and you can really feel the history as you go through the city and see the ruins of that ancient civilization.

Roman Colosseum

Roman Colosseum
Your tour includes a visit to the massive Colosseum, built back in 70 A.D. The huge amphitheater held up to 50,000 people, who would gather to watch anything from bloody gladiator contests to mock sea battles.

Forum Romanum

Forum Romanum
The Roman Forum was the commercial, political, and religious center of Ancient Rome. Today it’s a grassy field scattered with ancient columns and other ruins. With a little imagination, you’re walking with the Romans 2,000 years ago.

Optional Italian Cooking Class (extra cost)

Optional Italian Cooking Class ($115 pre-booked)
This is your chance to become a real Italian chef. Learn the basics of the regional specialties, as a local professional chef guides you through the process. You’ll start by making two kinds of pasta from scratch (anything from ravioli to cannelloni). Next the focus turns to the sauces. Don't worry if your skills in the kitchen are lacking—when you're done cooking you'll be treated to a three-course dinner prepared by the chef's team.

DAY 15 - ROME • FLORENCE

Visit to Vatican City

Visit to Vatican City
Visit this country within a city, home to the Pope. Walk through the famed St. Peter’s Basilica, which was built on the site where the saint was martyred. Also walk through the Sistine Chapel and see Michelangelo’s famous ceiling frescos.

Travel to Florence

Travel to Florence
Continue on to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region. Florence was king during the Renaissance, and it still holds on to that artsy, fashionable, cultural vibe. Top art museums, amazing food, great nightlife—for many, Florence is Italy at its best.

DAY 16 - FLORENCE

Sightseeing tour of Florence (local guide)

Sightseeing tour of Florence (local guide)
Cover Florence on foot with a local guide. Get a feel for the city’s Renaissance glory days at spots like the Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio (a medieval bridge; very photogenic). Continue past the gothic Basilica di Santa Croce, which houses the final resting places of many legendary Italians, including Michelangelo and Galileo.

Florence Duomo

Florence Duomo
Visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, better known as the Duomo because of its famous dome. The dome was designed in the 14th century by sculptor and architect Brunelleschi, and it’s still quite a sight.

Optional excursion to Pisa (extra cost)

Optional excursion to Pisa ($65 pre-booked)
Travel to Pisa, home of the legendary Leaning Tower, and snap some photos of the 12th-century architectural misfit. The tower has been aslant ever since the third floor was built, and legend says Galileo dropped weights from its top to test his theories of gravity. Also visit the Baptistery, known for its interesting acoustics, and Pisa Cathedral.

DAY 17 - FLORENCE • ROME

Free time in Florence (day)

Free time in Florence (day)
Top 5 free time suggestions:
1. The Uffizi Gallery – Don't miss this place; it's one of the top art museums in the world.
2. Galleria dell'Accademia – Another must-see gallery, the Accademia is home to Michelangelo’s world-famous David.
3. Giardino di Boboli – Enjoy the fresh air in this giant green park, complete with statues, caves and an island fountain.
4. Shopping around piazza Santa Croce – Those seeking real Italian leather products need look no further.
5. Palazzo Pitti – Go see this palace built by a rival family of the Medicis.

For more ideas and details, see our Lonely Planet city guide for Florence.

Return to Rome

Return to Rome
Head back to the Italian capital for your final night.

Farewell dinner

Farewell dinner
Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included farewell dinner with the group.

DAY 18 - FLIGHT

Fly home

Fly home
It's time to say your goodbyes. Head to the airport for your flight back home.

18 DAYS STARTING AT $3,170

Restrictions Apply

Price is valid on specific departure date and standard (triple/quad) rooming. Change and cancellation fees of up to the total price may apply. Applicable airline baggage fees are not included and can be found at efcollegebreak.com/baggage.
Prices may be subject to change.

DEPARTURES

QUOTE LISTED BELOW Modify search

EFCB PROGRAM FEE: DEPARTURE FEE:

TOTAL PRICE:

Change and cancellation fees of up to the total price will apply. Applicable airline baggage fees are not included and can be found at efcollegebreak.com/baggage.

To view EF’s Booking Conditions, visit efcollegebreak.com/pdf/2012_booking_conditions.pdf.

Current departure fees include taxes and surcharges levied by governments and airlines and may be subject to change prior to final payment.

Monthly Payment Calculator

PRICE THIS TRIP

Make Default Gateway

•Round-trip airfare
•Hotels

•Travel between cities
•Night ferry
•Island cruise
•Welcome dinner
•Breakfast daily
•Farewell dinner
•Full-time tour director
•Walking tours
•Sightseeing tours
•Entrance to select attractions

• Italian Cooking ClassThis is your chance to become a real Italian chef. Learn the basics of the regional specialties, as a local professional chef guides you through the process. You’ll start by making two kinds of pasta from scratch (anything from ravioli to cannelloni). Next the focus turns to the sauces. Don’t worry if your skills in the kitchen are lacking—when you’re done cooking you’ll be treated to a three-course dinner prepared by the chef’s team.

• Saronic Islands CruiseHead out for a day of island-hopping in the beautiful blue Saronic Gulf. Spend time on Aegina, Poros, and Hydra—these three picturesque islands are popular getaway spots for Athenians, who are drawn by the beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and amazing seaside landscapes.

• PisaTravel to Pisa, home of the legendary Leaning Tower, and snap some photos of the 12th-century architectural misfit. The tower has been aslant ever since the third floor was built, and legend says Galileo dropped weights from its top to test his theories of gravity. Also visit the Baptistery, known for its interesting acoustics, and Pisa Cathedral.

SIGHTS YOU'LL SEE:

Topkapi Palace

Blue Mosque

Ephesus site

Acropolis

Delphi site

Delphi museum

Pompeii Roman ruins

Colosseum

Sistine Chapel

St. Peter’s Basilica

Florence Duomo

Aya Sofia

Forum Romanum

CITY GUIDES

• Istanbul • Athens • Florence • Rome

VISA INFORMATION
U.S. citizens visiting Turkey will need to get a visa. For the latest information on requirements, and to get started on obtaining a visa, visit the U.S. State Department website.