All Tours and Outlets Included Big Italy Greece Balkans Tour - Ankara

Tour details
                            LARGE ITALY - GREECE - BALKAN TOUR
                     7 Nights – 9 Days
                    ALL CITY TOURS and DESIGNER OUTLET INCLUDED
                          NO EXTRA TOURS
                 Thessaloniki – Parga -  Igoumenitsa – Naples  – Rome – Siena - Florence – Pisa 
       Servalle Designer Outlet- Venice – Milan – Lake Como – Sirmione – Garda - Ljubljana- Belgrade- Sofia    

 
Tour Departure Dates :
January 23 / March 14 / April 17 / April 24 / May 15 / May 22 / May 23 / June 5 / June 12 / June 19 / June 26 / June 27 / July 3 / July 4 / July 10 / July 11 / July 17 / July 18 / July 24 / July 25 / July 31 / August 1 / August 7 / August 8 / August 14 / August 15 / August 21 / August 22 / August 28 / August 29 / September 4 / September 11 / September 18 / September 25 / October 2 / October 9 / October 16 / October 23 / October 30 / November 6 / November 7
 

Special Days :
January Semester : January 23
April Semester and Ramadan Feast: March 14
April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day : April 17
May 19 Atatürk Memorial, Youth and Sports Day: May 15
Kurban Bayramı: May 22 / May 23
July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day: July 10 / July 11  
Republic Day: October 23
November Semester: November 6 / November 7


Day 1: Ankara – Thessaloniki
On the first day of our trip, we will depart from the front of the National Library at 13:30, from Ümitköy Bridge at 14:00 and from Eryaman Optimum front at 14:45, arriving in Edirne through Tekirdağ.
Day 2: Thessaloniki – Parga - Igoumenitsa
After customs and passport procedures, we enter Greece. Arriving in Thessaloniki via Dedeağaç, Gümülcüne, İskeçe. Then, we have a city tour of Thessaloniki. During our city tour, we will see places such as the waterfront, the White Tower, the Rotunda, Fair Square, Ottoman and Byzantine artifacts, and Saint Demetrius Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Greece, as well as the statue of Alexander the Great. At the end of our tour, we visit the house of our great leader Atatürk. After a short rest, we walk along the waterfront known for its cafes, tasting Greece's famous coffee, Frappe. After the city tour, we will have free time. We will meet at the time specified by the guide and move to Parga, the birthplace of Pargalı İbrahim Pasha, the Grand Vizier of Suleiman the Magnificent. We will do a panoramic city tour in Parga, which has preserved its narrow streets and Ottoman architecture to this day. After free time, we head to Igoumenitsa Harbor for our group’s reserved seats and depart at 23:30. Our night will be spent with a ferry ride.
Breakfast: Will be taken additionally at a rest stop in Kavala.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Thessaloniki city center.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally during free time in Igoumenitsa.
Currencies: Greece - Euro
Route: Istanbul-Kavala (445 km), Kavala – Thessaloniki (136 km) ,  Thessaloniki-Igoumenitsa(323km)
Total Distance to be Covered: 904 km
 
Day 3: Bari(Brindisi) – Naples – Rome
In the morning, we arrive in Bari or Brindisi at 09:30 local time, and then we head to Naples with our bus. After our arrival, we will conduct a panoramic city tour of Naples. During our city tour, we will see places such as Plebiscito Square, the Royal Palace built in the 17th century, Castel Nuovo (New Castle), the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola which was built inspired by San Pietro Square and Pantheon in Rome, the Galleria Umberto I filled with shops, the Teatro di San Carlo, built in 1737 and listed in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, and Naples Harbor. After the tour and free time, we will move on to Italy's capital, Rome. We will check into our hotel, followed by free time. Overnight stay at our hotel.
Breakfast: Will be taken additionally on the ship.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Naples city center.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally during free time in Rome.
Currencies: Italy - Euro
Route: Bari-Naples (265 km), Naples – Bari (225)
Total Distance to be Covered: 490 km
Hotel Check-in Time: Estimated around 20:00 depending on traffic conditions
 
Day 4: Rome
After breakfast, we will conduct a City Introduction Tour of Rome. The places to be seen include; Vatican, considered as the center of Christianity, we will see Saint Peter's Basilica and the famous Venice Square designed by the famous architect Bernini. Next, we will visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Trajan's Forum, the Circus Maximus racecourse, Venice Square, where Mussolini addressed the public, the Vittoriano Monument, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. There will be free time in the city. Overnight at your hotel.
Breakfast: Will be taken at our hotel, and is included in the price.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Rome city center.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally during free time in Rome.
Currencies: Italy - Euro
Route: Rome (20 km)
Total Distance to be Covered: 20 km
Hotel Check-in Time: Depending on traffic conditions, approximately 20:00
 
Day 5: Rome – Siena - Florence
After breakfast, we set off towards Siena, known as a marvel of the Middle Ages. When we arrive at the world-famous Siena, known for its saddleless horse races called Palio, during our walking tour, you will truly feel transported back to the Middle Ages. Every point in Italy is unique, but you will never forget Siena. As we walk through its winding streets, we will reach Campo Square, where we will see Mangia Tower and Pubblico Palace. Right behind the square is Siena Cathedral, one of the buildings that you must see architecturally. After our walking tour, which will showcase this and many other works, we have free time, during which you can buy flags representing the neighborhoods of Siena or enjoy snacks in the cafes around the square. After free time, we head to Florence. After arriving, we will conduct a city tour in Florence. During this tour, we will see the Arno River, Ponte Vecchio Bridge, Uffizi Art Gallery, Baptistery of Saint John, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, and Signoria Palace panoramically. After the tour, guests have free time to explore the city and do some shopping. Transfer to our hotel, room distribution, and overnight stay at our hotel.
Breakfast: Will be taken at our hotel, and is included in the price.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Florence city center.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally during free time in Florence city center.
Currencies: Italy - Euro
Route: Rome –Siena (239km) Siena- Florence (75km)
Total Distance to be Covered: 314 km
Hotel Check-in Time: Depending on traffic conditions, approximately 20:00

 
Day 6: Florence – Pisa – Serravalle Designer Outlet -  Milan
After breakfast, we will set off with our special bus waiting for our group. First, we head to Pisa. We will see places such as Campo die miracoli (Dome Square) and the cylindrical Baptistery, known for its leaning bell tower. After visiting the Pisa Tower, we will visit the world-famous brands at Serravalle Designer Outlet. Following this, we will move to Milan, the city of Industry and Fashion. During our city tour in Milan, we will walk through the elegant streets to arrive at the famous Duomo Square. In the square, we will see Duomo Cathedral, one of the most important and architecturally magnificent works in Italy. We will conclude our time in Milan with shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. After the tour and free time, we will transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.
Breakfast: Will be taken at our hotel, and is included in the price.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Pisa city center.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally during free time in Milan city center.
Currencies: Italy - Euro
Route: Florence - Pisa (100km), Pisa – Milan(280km)
Total Distance to be Covered: 380 km
Hotel Check-in Time: Depending on traffic conditions, approximately 20:00

 
Day 7: Milan – Lake Como – Sirmione Garda – Venice
After breakfast, we will first head to Lake Como, a natural wonder located in the Lombardy region. We will arrive at Lake Como, which borders Switzerland. We will give free time along Lake Como, known to some as paradise due to its beauty, tranquility, and infinity where blue meets green. Guests who wish can enjoy a coffee while taking in the view, while others can explore by walking. After visiting Como, we head to Venice. Along the way, we will stop at Sirmione Garda Lake, famous for its natural beauty, and then continue to Venice. Upon arrival in Venice, we will walk towards San Marco Square to get to know Venice. Guests who confirm may take special water taxis to reach the historical San Marco Square, where we will see the square and the San Marco Cathedral, the Doge's Palace, Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge with our guide. After the tour and free time, we will transfer to our hotel. Overnight at our hotel.
Breakfast: Will be taken at our hotel, and is included in the price.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Venice.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally during free time in Mestre city center.
Currencies: Italy - Euro
Route:  Milan- Como (50km), Como – Mestre(305km)
Total Distance to be Covered: 355 km
Hotel Check-in Time: Approximately 21:00 depending on traffic conditions
 
Day 8: Venice – Ljubljana - Belgrade
After breakfast, we will arrive in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, awarded the 2016 European Green Capital. During our panoramic city tour, we will see Ljubljana River, the Parliament building, the University of Ljubljana, the Old Square, the Dragon Statue, Dragon Bridge, Tivoli Park, St. Nicholas Cathedral, and Preseren Square. After visiting the city, we will move on to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, via Croatia, where we will stay at our hotel.
Breakfast: Will be taken at our hotel, and is included in the price.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Ljubljana.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally at a rest stop on the highway.
Currencies: Italy - Euro, Slovenia – Euro, Serbia - Dinar
Route:  Mestre- Ljubljana (230km), Ljubljana – Belgrade (530km)
Total Distance to be Covered: 760 km
Hotel Check-in Time:Estimated around 22:30 depending on customs crossing times

 
Day 9: Belgrade - Sofia – Ankara
After breakfast, we will check out of the rooms and depart: We will arrive in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. After arriving, we will have a panoramic city tour of Sofia. During our visit, we will see St. Nedelya Church, Rotunda Church, Russian Church, Saint Sofia Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Prime Ministry, Parliament, Sofia University, and Banya Bashi Mosque. After the bus journey, we will head back to Ankara and arrive there. Our tour ends. We hope to see you again in another tour organization. (Depending on customs crossing times, we may arrive late the next day.)
Breakfast: Will be taken at our hotel, and is included in the price.
Lunch: Will be taken additionally during free time in Sofia.
Dinner: Will be taken additionally at a rest stop on the highway.
Currencies: Serbia – Dinar, Bulgaria - Lev
Route:  Belgrade- Sofia (390km), Sofia – Istanbul (550km)
Total Distance to be Covered:
940 km
Istanbul Arrival Time:Estimated around 03:00 depending on customs crossing times

What's included
*Comfortable transportation services by bus between Ankara – Thessaloniki – Igoumenitsa – Bari – Rome – Florence – Milan – Venice - Sofia - Ankara.
*City tours to be conducted in Rome – Florence – Venice – Thessaloniki – Belgrade - Sofia.
*2 Nights Bed & Breakfast accommodation in a 3* or 4* hotel in Rome.
*1 Night Bed & Breakfast accommodation in a 3* or 4* hotel in Florence (surroundings).
*1 Night Bed & Breakfast accommodation in a 3* or 4* hotel in Milan.
*1 Night Bed & Breakfast accommodation in a 3* or 4* hotel in Venice (surroundings).
*1 Night Bed & Breakfast accommodation in a 3* or 4* hotel in Belgrade.
*Parga Tour
*Naples Tour
*Siena Tour
*Pisa Tour
*Milano Tour
*Lake Como Tour
*Sirmione Garda Tour
*Ljubljana Tour
*Ferry ride between Igoumenitsa - Bari (Brindisi)
*Professional Turkish guiding services.
*Limited water service on board.
*All highway check-point and parking fees.
*Customs Taxes
Not included
*Visa fee and service charge (Multiple-entry Schengen Visa) *Tours organized by the guide *City Accommodation Taxes, Italy Headphone Service, Venice Entrance Fee (50 EUR per person, paid to the guide during the tour) *Entrance fees to museums, archaeological sites, etc. *Foreign departure tax *Travel Health Insurance *Lunch and Dinner *Vaporetto fee (round trip 15 EUR) *Extra tours organized by the guide *All personal expenses, *Optional driver tips
Need to Know
- Participants must have a valid multi-entry Schengen visa for the entire duration of the tour. (Holders of Green Passports are exempt from the visa requirement.) - For shopping and spending in all countries included in the program during the tour, carrying Euros is sufficient. In areas where local currency is used, the guide will assist with currency exchange. - Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers should be preferred during the trip. It is advisable to bring a cardigan or similar clothing for the evening. - On our tours, seat rotation is applied in the daily seating arrangement, and no fixed seat or front-seat guarantee is provided. Seat changes are organized by the tour guide. - When entering Turkey from abroad, you must have stayed at least 3 days in order to bring goods (alcohol, cigarettes, etc.). - Duty-free shopping limits when entering Turkey from abroad: Cigarettes: 3 cartons, Alcoholic beverages: 1 liter of alcoholic beverage (excluding alcoholic drinks containing more than 22% alcohol, wine and champagne), Alcoholic beverages: 2 liters of alcoholic beverage (including alcoholic drinks containing less than 22% alcohol, wine and champagne), Perfume: 600 ml, Makeup or skin care products: 5 items, Chocolate and confectionery: 2 kg, Coffee: 1 kg, Tea: 1 kg - The guide may make changes to the program flow depending on weather and road conditions, provided that all places specified in the program are shown. - Registered guests have the right to cancel free of charge up to 30 days before the tour. If the cancellation is made less than 30 days before the tour date, a 30% penalty applies; if it is 20 days or less before the tour date, a 100% penalty applies. Documents submitted with the cancellation request, such as hospital reports or employer leave documents obtained from authorities in Turkey, are unfortunately not accepted for the cancellation of hotel and service bookings outside Turkey. - Our tour program is organized with a minimum participation of 25 people. If sufficient participation is not reached for the trip, the latest cancellation notice date is 20 days before departure. The cancellation of the tour due to insufficient participation will be notified by Viyatravel. - If only category information is provided in the tour program without specifying a hotel name and/or there are multiple options for the same destination, the hotel(s) will be announced by Viyatravel 2 days before departure. - During periods such as fairs, congresses, concerts, events, sports tournaments, etc., hotels may be used at a distance greater than the specified kilometers. In such a case, information will be provided by Viyatravel 15 days before the departure date of the tour. - Triple rooms may be provided depending on hotel availability, and in such rooms the bed assigned to the third person is smaller than standard beds. Triple rooms consist of 1 large bed + 1 extra bed. Since extra beds are foldable/collapsible and known as coach beds, tour participants booking for a third person and/or child are deemed to have accepted the possible cramped conditions and the bed type in the rooms. Child discounts apply only to one child of the applicable age group staying with 2 adults. - Breakfasts included in the tour program are served in accordance with the breakfast culture of the country visited and are generally offered as a limited menu known as a continental breakfast, consisting of butter, jam, bread, tea, or coffee, and may be served in a separate hall allocated to the group. - Panoramic city tours included in the tour package are tours organized for the general introduction of the cities, lasting at most 2-3 hours, conducted from the vehicle with guide commentary and not including museum or archaeological site entrance fees. Viyatravel is not responsible if such panoramic tours, as well as any other tours in the program, cannot be carried out on the scheduled day and time due to local authorities not allowing visits, road closures caused by events, or weather conditions making the tour impossible. Some tours may be conducted by public transport or on foot where roads are closed or vehicle access is not permitted, if possible. - Waiting times at border crossings passed by road during the journey may exceed standard durations, and Viyatravel cannot be held responsible for any inconveniences arising from such delays. - Extra tours are organized by the local service provider we work with, with a minimum participation requirement of 20 people. If the required number is not reached, the excursions may not take place, or the prices, content, and vehicles used for extra tours may vary depending on the number of participants. In addition, the days and times of the tours may be changed by the guide depending on the opening/closing status of museums and sites at the destinations and weather conditions. - Participation in extra tours is optional and not mandatory. Passengers who do not wish to join the optional tours organized during the trip are deemed to have accepted waiting at a suitable rest stop along the route. These passengers will be dropped off at a roadside rest area before the extra tour begins and picked up again from the same point after the tour is completed. - For those joining tours by air, the required check-in and boarding procedures are personal responsibilities and must be completed by the guest before departure at the relevant airline counters at the airport or online via the airlines’ websites. - Viyatravel is not responsible for passengers who do not arrive at the airport at the times announced by Viyatravel for participation in the tour, who do not complete check-in and boarding on time, or who complete check-in and boarding on time but do not board the aircraft. Passengers who miss the flight are responsible for all costs required to join the tour, including new round-trip air tickets and transfers in the destination area. - Viyatravel acts as an intermediary between the airline and the passenger and is subject to the Hague Protocol dated 28.09.1955. Delays may occur on scheduled and charter flights, or times may change before the current trip and flight. Viyatravel is obliged to notify these changes as soon as possible. The passenger purchases the trip accepting the risk of schedule changes. Children aged 0-2 do not pay airport taxes or airport service fees. - The types of vehicles used on our tours are classified as follows according to the number of participants. The vehicle type below is assigned based on the number of people on each tour. Coaches: (used for 25-46 people) *Mercedes Travego/Tourismo *NEOPLAN Cityliner/Tourliner *Temsa Safir/Maraton *Man Fortuna Midibuses: (used for 17-24 people) *Isuzu Turkuaz, *Otokar Mega Minibuses: (used for up to 16 people) *VW Volt, *Mercedes Sprinter - All guests are deemed to have completed the sale of the tour by accepting the above-mentioned terms.