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Ancient stone ruins and ornate columns of Ephesus near Kusadasi under a dramatic, cloudy sky.
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Greece/Turkey

Greece & Turkey: Island Life, History & Culture

Program No. 25747RJ
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Program
At a Glance
Duration
11 days
Program Begins
Athens
Program Concludes
Athens
Meals
25 ( 9B, 8L, 8D )
Activity Level
From
9,499
Free Airfare From Select Cities
Immerse yourself in the history, culture and everyday rhythms of the Aegean on a learning adventure through Greece and Turkey. Begin in Athens, where ancient landmarks and world-class museums reveal the foundations of Western civilization, then continue your exploration by small ship aboard the Blue Zephyr, exclusively ours for this voyage. Journey among storied islands and coastal towns, discovering archaeological sites, sacred spaces and vibrant communities shaped by centuries of tradition. Walk through the remarkable ruins of Ephesus, explore the island of Ikaria, known for the longevity of its residents, and experience the distinctive character of each destination — from quiet harbors to lively cultural centers. Along the way, engage with experts who bring context and insight to the region’s history, cuisine and way of life, enriching every step of your journey.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Explore Athens’ Acropolis and its world-renowned museum, gaining insight into the foundations of Western civilization.
  • Experience the island of Ikaria, known for the longevity of its residents, and discover the traditions, cuisine and daily rhythms that contribute to long life.
  • Discover Ephesus and the cultural treasures of the Aegean, wandering through remarkable ruins, exploring sacred sites and enjoying local flavors, including a wine tasting on the island of Paros.
  • Enjoy exclusive access to experts who will be with you throughout your journey and learn from them as you take in onboard lectures and educational activities.
Activity Level
Choose Your Pace
This program offers two activity levels. The “On Your Feet” option includes walking up to 2 miles per day over unpaved or cobblestones streets and standing up to 2 hours per day. The more active “Keep the Pace” option includes walking up to 4 miles a day at a moderate pace of 2 miles per hour, potentially over unpaved or cobblestone streets, and standing for up to 3 hours per day. Field trips may include navigating steep stairways and uneven terrain at archaeological sites. This program will require approximately 30 miles of walking over 9 days. Please note that this program is not suitable for wheelchair/electric scooter use. Must be physically capable of participating in all planned program activities.
Floating Campus®
On our Road Scholar Floating Campuses, we’ll have the entire ship to ourselves and enjoy field trips onshore in smaller groups. Onboard experts will be on hand throughout the voyage and will offer instruction during exclusive lectures, Q&A sessions and discussions.
Suggested Books and Resources
View Full List
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
Enroll with Confidence
Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

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Assurance Plan

Road Scholar is committed to the well-being of every participant, whether on a program in the United States or abroad. That’s why all participants are covered under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan, which provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program, as well as insurance for emergency medical evacuation.

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Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

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Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

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