Special Interest Tours
Jordan Israel Egypt Greece Turkey Italy Spain France Portugal Germany Czech Republic Ireland England Golfing Tour • Wine Tour • Castle Tour • Gastronomy Tour • Philosophical Tour • Archeological Tour • Historic Lodging Tour • Ancient Science • Literature tour
Map of our Destinations Ireland U.K. Germany Czech Austria
France Italy
Portugal
Spain
Greece
Turkey
Israel
Jordan
Asia AFRICA
Egypt
Letter from President I am very excited to share with you our latest endeavor for group travel entitled “Special Interest Tours”. Many experienced travelers are searching for more specialized and in-depth vacation experiences. Key Tours has developed a new program of suggested special interest vacations designed and themed to meet the needs of the sophisticated traveler. Take a moment and browse through our brochure and you will find unique itineraries for the discriminating and educated traveler. Also at your leisure I invite you to review our “Journeys of Faith” Group brochure, this brochure includes the most sought after historical biblical itineraries for the Christian market. Our Europe brochure is full of the most desired and exciting itineraries in the market, all 179 pages worth! Our elegant and sophisticated “Luxury Collection” brochure was designed for the most discriminating of clients who demand the very best that Europe has to offer regardless of cost. So journey through our brochure to the many unique itineraries and let Key Tours International be your group’s guide throughout Europe and the Mediterranean.
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About Key Tours Key Tours specializes in the Europe and Mediterranean region and is thoroughly knowledgeable and experienced in developing sophisticated itineraries for the discriminating traveler. Whether your preferences are specialized itineraries that visit the many Castles of central Europe or a sophisticated winery tour of France or a philosophical tour of Greece or an ancient science and literary tour of Turkey, Key Tours’ in depth knowledge will help make your group’s experience a rewarding one. As a member of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), we are proud that we were designated by ASTA as a “TOP” Tour Operator, we pledge to uphold the highest ethical standards in the Travel industry, and we further demonstrate our commitment to financial integrity by participating in the Travel Funds Protection Plan (TFPP). All payments are held in escrow here in the United States. This protection plan is also approved under the California Seller of Travel Law. In this brochure you will find what we believe to be a wide assortment of unique and specialized itineraries but even more importantly, these itineraries are our suggested itineraries, what that means simply is we can add, change or delete any part of the itinerary that you feel your group would prefer. Is there an itinerary that you would like but isn’t in our brochure, not a problem simply contact us and we will custom make any itinerary for you, it’s that simple.
Key Tours Can Help Promote Your Group
Flyer Shells: Key Tours is able to supply the first 100 shells free and you may overprint your group’s itinerary and tour details. Should you require additional shells, for a nominal fee of only $25.00 per 100 shells will be available upon request. Co-Op Advertising: Key Tours participates with coop advertising in pre-approved newspapers or radio advertising and will pay up to ½ of the cost not to exceed $200.00 for group bookings when the total tour cost is over $10,000. The shared amount is returned to you as a reduction on the group’s invoice. Presentation: In most major metropolitan areas our local reps will be happy to speak with your group and have a power point presentation and answer your client’s questions, while maintaining your presence. Lecturers: If your group is seeking in-depth information on a particular topic while toursing we can arrange a variety of qualified lecturers on specialized topics such as: Architecture, History, Egyptology, Biblical history, Pottery making, Politics, etc.
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How do we Define a Group? Group Size: We define a minimum of 10 adult passengers and up as a group, if you have a smaller group our FIT department can help you customize an itinerary and offer special competitive services. Booking Groups: It’s simple, call or e-mail our group dept. and within 48 hours you will receive a quote, in certain instances it may take a little longer if the request includes a specific lecturer. Customized Group Itineraries: Our programs are suggested itineraries whoever if you have something in mind that is not exactly in our brochure we can easily customize it and quote you our competitive rates. Because it’s customized doesn’t imply that it will have a higher cost. Tour Conductors: We normally offer one free participant after every 15 paying adult participants in a double room. Whoever if you require differently, just let us know.
Key Tours Group Services: Hotels: Key Tours offers a wide range of hotel classes. We have special arrangements with first Class, Superior First Class and Deluxe hotels. For special interest groups we have special rates in Historical hotels and for budget groups there are Tourist Class hotels available. Our volume of buying power allows us to pass along exceptional savings on selected hotels.
Airlines: Tour operator buying power enables us to make special agreements and flexible schedule arrangements with the best well-known airlines. We can also offer you land only arrangements if you prefer to make your own air arrangements. Cruises: We work with well known cruise lines operating in the Mediterranean region, again our special agreements and volume-buying power gives us access to special rates.
Local Guides: Key Tours Truly understands the importance of guided services for the success of any tour. Therefore, we provide the very best. In most cases our selected guides have at least five years of experience and are licensed by their local governments. They are knowledgeable and experienced with the American and Canadian clientele and regardless of the destination they are measured by our highest of standards. They will travel throughout the tour with your group. Drivers: Our drivers are highly experienced and have proven safety records; we select our drivers with great caution and of the highest standard to ensure your group has a safe and enjoyable experience. Special Events or Arrangements: If you wish to include a special location such as a local village, farm, industrial plant, university, high school, synagogue, church, concert, opera or a historical site, we are able to arrange it in advance, if you wish for a special private tour in a museum after hours, or have your musical band group play in a historical site we are able to arrange that as well. Our negotiation strength is strong and we therefore are able to accommodate specialized and out of the norm requests.
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Contents Historical Jordan (8 Days & 7 Nights)...................................................................................................................2
Archaeological tour of Israel (14 Days & 13 Nights)...........................................................................................4
Archeology of Egypt (11 Days & 10 Nights).........................................................................................................6
Castles and Pubs of Ireland (10 Days & 9 Nights)...............................................................................................8
Castles and Universities of England and Scotland (11 Days & 10 Nights).....................................................10
Wine Tour of France (11 Days & 10 Nights).......................................................................................................12
Turkey: Land of Mythology (13 Days & 12 Nights)...........................................................................................14
Turkey: Expedition to Ancient Science and Literature (13 Days & 12 Nights)..............................................16
Countryside of Italy (10 Days & 9 Nights)..........................................................................................................18
Splender of Sicily (10 Days & 9 Nights)...............................................................................................................20
Philosophical Tour of Greece (9 Days & 8 Nights)............................................................................................22
Historical & Philosophical Tour of Greece (9 Days & 8 Nights)......................................................................24
Historic Lodgings of Spain & Portugal (14 Days & 13 Nights)........................................................................26
Madrid and Andalusia: Golf and Historical Tour (12 Days & 11 Nights)......................................................28
Castles of Central Europe (10 Days & 9 Nights)................................................................................................30
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Historical Jordan 8 Days & 7 Nights
Day 1: Amman
3 Amman
1
Dead Sea
JORDAN 2 Petra 1
Aqaba
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Amman Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
English speaking licensed guide
7 days of sightseeing with entrance fees included 8 Breakfasts, 7 Dinners included 7 Nights accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative who will assist you through customs and immigrations after collecting your luggage and transfer you to your hotel. Rest of the day will be at leisure. D
Day 2: Amman – Jerash – Ajloun – Amman
After breakfast, city tour of Amman to include: Citadel Mount, Archaeological Museum Roman Theater, Downtown old and new section of Amman. Afterwards drive to the ancient city of Jerash, then proceed to Qalaat er-Rabad, the major ancient site within the Ajlun forests region. Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight. B D
Day 3: Baptism Site – Madaba – Mt. Nebo – Dead Sea
Breakfast, then visit the Baptism site of Jesus by John the Baptist, this also took place very close to Beit ‘Abara, where Joshua, Elijah and Elisha crossed the river. Visit Madaba, the city of Mosaics. View the Jordan Valley from the famous Mount Nebo, then drive to Dead Sea, dinner and overnight. B D
Day 4: Dead Sea – Wadi Al Mujib – Kerak – Petra
After breakfast, head towards Via Wadi Al Mujib, heading 1000 meters deep we arrive to Kerak and its castle which was built by the Crusaders. The most exciting area of the castle is its underground. Afterwards drive to Petra for dinner and overnight. B D
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Petra
Day 5: Petra
Day 7: Aqaba Hotel – Wadi Rum – Amman
Day 6: Petra Hotel – Little Petra – Aqaba
Day 8: Departure
Breakfast then begin a full day tour visiting Jordan’s Jewel, the Capital City of the Nabateans. A city fully carved in the red rose stones of Wadi Mousa Mountains. Upon arrival you will take a horse back ride, walk through the Siq, the only access to this city, Dinner and overnight in Petra. B D
After breakfast, visit Al Beidha or Little Petra is the next most important site in Wadi Musa. Little Petra is literally hidden away in the center of a mountain with a classical temple standing guard outside the mini-siq. After drive to Aqaba for dinner and overnight accommodations. B D
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Breakfast, then head to Wadi Rum the Vally of the Moon. Upon arrival a 2 hour jeep tour to explore Lawrence Road, visiting the most spectacular sights of Wadi Rum, we will view sand dunes and visit Bedouin tents. After that, drive back to Amman for dinner and overnight. B D
After breakfast, transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for departure home. B
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Archaeological tour of Israel 14 Days & 13 Nights Haifa 2
Tiberias/Lavi 3
Caesarea
Tel Aviv 3
Nazareth Beit Shean
WEST BANK
2
GAZA STRIP
Dead Se a
Jerusalem 3
ISRAEL
Day 1: Tel Aviv
Arrive in Tel Aviv, transfer to hotel. With your Key Tours representative. This afternoon we’ll explore ancient Jaffa, one of the oldest port cities in the world. Overnight Tel Aviv. D
Day 2: Antipatris – Ashkelon Park – Tel Be’er Sheva Coach to Antipatris, ancient Bronze Age city rebuilt by Herod the Great. Continue to Ashkelon Park, remains of the numerous ancient civilizations. Visit Tel Azekah. Conclude to Tel Be’er Sheva, remains of the Biblical town of Be’er Sheva. Overnight Tel Aviv. B D
Day 3: Philistine Gath – Emmaus – Beit – Guvrin
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Tel Aviv Meet and assist upon arrival by your key Tours representative
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
Expert English speaking licensed guide
13 days of ground touring with entrance fees
13 Breakfasts and 13 Dinners included
13 Nights’ accommodations
Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Breakfast then onto Philistine Gath. A member of the excavation team will personally guide you through the site. Onto the ruins of Emmaus, Afternoon participate in an archaeological excavation at Beit-Guvrin. Later participate in a wine-tasting at one of the local Shephelah wineries. Overnight Tel Aviv. B D
Day 4: Neot Kedumim – Caesarea – Tel Dor – Haifa
Breakfast then onto the Biblical garden of Neot Kedumim, a nature preserve Explore Herod the Great’s legendary building program at Caesarea, Onto Tel Dor—identified as Biblical Dor—and tour its spectacular museum with a maritime archaeologist. Overnight Haifa. B D
Day 5: Hecht Museum – Beth Shearim – Muhraka – Haifa Breakfast then visit the Hecht Museum at Haifa University, necropolis of Beth Shearim. With more than 20 catacombs. Continue to the underground city and Crusader fortress at Acco, conclude at Muhraka, site of the battle with the pagan prophets. Overnight Haifa. B D
Day 6: Megiddo – Sepphoris – Tiberias The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Begin at the site of Megiddo. Continue on to Sepphoris, known as the “Mona Lisa of the Galilee.” Finally, trace the steps of Jesus through Nazareth. Overnight Tiberias. B D
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Jerusalem
Day 7: Hazor – Mt. Bental – Qatzrin – Tiberias
Visit the site at Hazor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow the Jordan River, to Tel Dan ( Biblical Laish ) visit, then onto the Golan Heights and to Mt. Bental. Then to an ancient Jewish agricultural village in Qatzrin. Overnight Tiberias. B D
Day 8: Capernaum – Mount of Beatitudes – Hippos/Sussita – Tiberias
We’ll begin at Capernaum, and then onto Mount of Beatitudes. Accompanied by a member of the excavation team, we’ll explore the site of Hippos/Sussita, one of the cities of the Decapolis. Overnight Tiberias. B D
Day 9: Mt. Arbel – Hotspring Park – Beth Shean – Dead Sea
Explore ancient Tiberias, before a visit to Mt. Arbel. After a stop at Tiberias Hotspring Park, continue to Beth Shean, mentioned in Egyptian records. Conditions permitting, view a panoramic vista overlooking Jericho and the Jordan Valley. Overnight Dead Sea region. B D
Day 10: Masada – Ein Gedi – Dead Sea
Breakfast then onto Masada. from here journey to Ein Gedi, where David fled when hiding from Saul. Afternoon is yours to enjoy leisure activities at the Dead Sea. Overnight Dead Sea region. B D www.keytours.com
Day 11: Qumran – Mount of Olives – Gethsamene – Jerusalem
Visit of Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, also visit Mount of Olives. Walk the Palm Sunday path to Gethsamene. Continue into the city, visiting St. Anne’s Church. Begin our walk up the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Overnight Jerusalem. B D
Day 12: Jerusalem – Hezekiah’s Tunnel – Cardo
An exploration of Jerusalem and the City of David with a local scholar will take you to the city’s foundation—literally—as you descend through millennia into Hezekiah’s Tunnel, then stroll up the Cardo in the Old City, will conclude the day. Overnight Jerusalem. B D
Day 13: Temple Mount – Dome of The Rock – Davidson Center
Begin with a visit to the Temple Mount complex courtyard, including the Dome of the Rock and al-Aqsa Mosque. Continue to Davidson Center, (time permitting) visit the Israel Museum. Overnight Jerusalem. B D
Day 14: Departure
Bid farewell to glorious Jerusalem as we transfer to the airport for our return to the U.S. B
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Archeology of Egypt 11 Days & 10 Nights Alexandria
Day 1: Cairo
Cairo 4
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative who will assist you through customs and immigrations after collecting your baggage, he will transfer you to your hotel.
EGYPT 1
Esna
1 Luxor 1 Edfu
Aswan 2
Kom Ombo
Abu Simbel
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Cairo
Domestic flights within Egypt
Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach English speaking licensed Egyptologistguide 9 days of ground/sea touring with entrance fees Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations 10 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 5 Dinners included (option for additional dinners available) 10 Nights accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Day 2: Cairo
Full day tour begins with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza, Cheops’, Chephren, Mykerinos and their guardian Sphinx. Included is a visit to the solar boat Museum, Horse or Camel ride across the Giza Plateau, St. Mercurios Abu Sefein, St. George, Greek Orthodox Church of Abu Serga The Jewish Synagogue of Ben Ezra and Khan Khalili Bazaar. Overnight in Cairo. B
Day 3: Cairo
A full day tour starting with the Egyptian Museum (including the Mummy Chamber), continue to Virgin Mary Church—Zeitoun and Coptic Cathedral of El Abbasia Back to hotel and after short rest, the Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids. Overnight in Cairo. B
Day 4: Alexandria
After breakfast over day tour to Alexandria (on arrival you will visit Catacombs, Greco Roman Theater, Library of Alexandria and Pompey’s Pillar). Overnight in Cairo. B
Day 5: Luxor
Transfer to Cairo airport for the flight to Luxor. Upon arrival transfer to Hotel Sonesta Luxor or similar on Bed & Breakfast basis After short rest visit the East Bank. Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple and evening Sound & Light show at Karnak. Overnight in Luxor. B
Day 6: Dendera – Abydos – Nile Cruise
Drive to the Temple of Hathour in Dendera, one of the iconic Egyptian buildings, as it remains almost intact
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Pyramids, Egypt
with roof and columns, underground crypts and twisting stairways. Abydos and visit the Temple of Seti I. Back to Luxor, upon arrival transfer to Nile cruise, and overnight on board. B L D
Day 7: Luxor – Esna – Edfu
Balloon Ride Over West Bank (pick up time 05:00 A.M.), breakfast then visit the West Bank. Valley of Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at El-Deir ElBahari and Colossi of Memnon. Nile Cruise will sail to Esna and Edfu, Captain’s Cocktail Reception. Dinner on board Overnight in Edfu. B L D
Day 8: Edfu – Kom Ombo – Aswan
Visit the Temple of Horus one of the most complete architectures in Egypt. After lunch sail to Kom Ombo and visit the Temple shared by the two Gods; Sobek and Haroeris, continues to Aswan. Dinner on board Oriental Galabaia Party. Overnight in Aswan. B L D
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Day 9: Aswan
Optional A.M. tour to Abu Simbel by flight. Afternoon visit the Temple dedicated for Isis on the Philae Island and the unfinished Obelisk and the High Dam. Afternoon tour by Felucca to Elephantine Island, the Botanical Gardens, the Agha Khan Mausoleum. Dinner on board Overnight in Aswan. B L D
Day 10: Aswan – Cairo
Tour to Nubian Village including camel ride, motor boat, Nubian house visit and possibility of Henna tattoo. Transfer to Aswan airport for Cairo, arrival transfer to hotel. Farewell dinner on a Nile Cruise Ship. B D
Day 11: Departure
After breakfast transfer to Cairo airport for your flight home. B
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Castles and Pubs of Ireland 10 Days & 9 Nights
Day 1: Dublin
IRELAND Galway 2
Dublin
3
Connemara Dingle Peninsula 3
Kerry
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Dublin Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed guide 9 days of touring with entrance fees included Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel or Castle accommodations
8 Breakfasts and 2 Dinners
9 Night accommodations included
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Arrival at Dublin Airport. Meet with your coach driver and guide and depart for Dublin City. On route visit Malahide Castle one of Ireland’s oldest and most historic castles. It also houses the Fry miniature railway for railway enthusiasts, later visit the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, it’s Europe’s largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Continue to Dublin and check into your city centre hotel.
Day 2: Dublin’s Fair City
The day begins with a panoramic tour of Dublin, visit the Georgian squares, famous for its architecture and its famous doors. Highlights of the tour is a visit to The Old Jameson Distillery. Pass by Christchurch, Phoenix Park with its many monuments including the Papal cross. Return to the city centre via the Quays and we will end up at the Guinness Storehouse. Evening dinner at your leisure. B D
Optional:
For the more active traveler why not join the Musical Pub Crawl, A great way to experience the Dublin pub scene and the rich heritage of Irish music. Venture on the Musical Pub-Crawl. The tour is led by two professional musicians who perform tunes and songs, while telling the story of Irish Music. Lasting 2 hours the group will have plenty of time to enjoy the music while enjoying a drink in each pub.
Day 3: Wicklow Mountains – Kilkenny
Depart for the Wicklow Mountains, “the Garden of Ireland”, Visit Glendalough, “the valley of the two lakes”. Continue to Kilkenny often referred to as “the Marble City”. It is the most interesting and best preserved of the medieval Irish cities. Visit Kilkenny Castle the most recognized buildings in Ireland, The perfect pint of Guinness can be found in many pubs in Kilkenny including Langtons Bar or Bollards Bar & Restaurant. Overnight in Killarney. B
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Kylemore Abbey
Day 4: Kilkenny – Cork – Killarney
Morning travel to Cashel. Photo stop at the Rock of Cashel, the most photographed site in Ireland. Continue to Blarney in County Cork. Visit to Blarney Castle. Stop for shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills. Continue to your Hotel. Tonight enjoy some pub grub at Tatler Jacks Bar & Restaurant. Overnight at your hotel in Kerry region. B D
Day 5: Dingle Peninsula
Today, full day tour of the Dingle Peninsula, famous for its Celtic, pre-Christian monuments and Christian churches. It’s also a ‘Gaeltacht’ (Irish speaking) area, Dingle is a thriving fishing town with its plentiful pubs, narrow streets and busy harbor. Visit Paidi O Se’s Pub a must while in the area. Evening is at leisure. Overnight in Killarney. B
Day 6: Burren and The Cliffs of Moher
Travel to Galway taking the car ferry from Killimer to Tarbert into County Clare. Visit Foynes Flying Boat Museum, Enjoy an Irish Coffee at Foynes. Continue to the majestic Cliffs of Moher. Stop in the town of Doolin, major hub of traditional Irish music. Stop in at Gus O’ Connor’s Pub dating back to 1832 famous for its
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Irish “Seisiun” Onto Galway. Photo stop at Dunguaire Castle. Overnight in Galway. B
Day 7: Connemara
Explore, Connemara, where Gaelic is still spoken and where little has changed. Afternoon return to Galway City for some time at leisure Visit Kylemore Abbey. Stop in the town of Leenane for a visit to the pubs. Enjoy a drink by the open fire! Return to Galway for your overnight stay. B
Day 9: Galway – Dublin
Depart for Dublin and travel via Athlone Visit Athlone Castle then a visit to Locke’s Distillery established in 1757 believed to be the oldest licensed pot still whiskey distillery in the world. Today it’s a museum. Complete the tour with a glass at the end of the visit. Evening farewell dinner at Nancy Hands Bar & Restaurant. Overnight in Dublin. B D
Day 10: Departure
Enjoy a final full Irish breakfast at your hotel. Meet with your coach driver and direct transfer to Dublin’s airport for your flight home. B
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Castles and Universities of England and Scotland 11 Days & 10 Nights
Scotland 1 Aviemore 1
Glasgow
Day 1: Leeds
2 Edinburgh
England York
1
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative. Walking tour of Cambridge. The University’s Colleges are historic and beautiful. Visit King’s College Chapel, where Choir performs on a regular basis, Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum. Overnight in Leeds area.
Leeds Liverpool
2
Day 2: York – Edinburgh
3
London
Visit the York Minster—second-largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe, and cathedral for the Diocese of York. Enjoy Stonegate and Shambles shopping and live the York history at the Jorvik Viking Centre, National Railway Museum and York Castle Museum. Continue to Edinburgh, overnight. B
Day 3: Edinburgh
Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative
Visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Her Majesty’s residence at Holyrood Palace, Princes Street stores or the “New Town”—nearly 300 years old! Enjoy a “Jamie’s Scottish Evening”—Scottish banquet with unlimited wine, and performence by some of Scotland’s most accomplished artists. Overnight. B D
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
Day 4: Loch Ness – Aviemore
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – London
9 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner included (option for additional dinners available)
Depart from Edinburgh and continue driving toward Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland—one of the most celebrated holiday destinations in the UK. On the way stop at Perth, Scone Palace, Blair Athol Distillery, Blair Castle. Overnight in Inverness area: Aviemore. B
8 Night accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
Day 5: Glasgow
Expert English speaking licensed guide
9 days of touring with entrance fees
London Eye River cruise
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Breakfast then stop at Woollen Mill, Urquhart Castle, Ben Nevis, Inveraray Castle—is a remarkable and unique piece of architecture incorporating Baroque, Palladian and Gothic, Loch Lomond. Continue to Glasgow. Overnight in Glasgow area. B
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Buckingham Palace, London
Day 6: Liverpool
Breakfast then onto The Lake District National Park Stop at Gretna Green,—Bowness-on-Windermere situated in a spectacular lakeside setting on the eastern shore of Lake Windermere. Arrive to Liverpool where you can take a Beatles Tour visiting The Beatles Story Exhibition and Cavern Pub. Overnight in Liverpool area. B
Day 7: Chester – Caernarfon – Conwy Castle
Morning excursion to Chester—one of the oldest and most complete walled cities; Chester is one of the jewels in Britain’s crown. Visit Chester Cathedral, Continue to Caernarfon—then a visit to Snowdonia National Park and Conwy Castle. Overnight in Liverpool area. B
Day 8: Stratford – Upon-Avon – Warwick Castle – London
construction as a Wooden Motte and Bailey castle by William the Conqueror to a massive stone fortress. Overnight in London. B
Day 9: London & Windsor
Breakfast, visit the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye Windsor Castle is an official residence of The Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world. B
Day 10: London
Visit London Eye and experience London Eye River cruise. Shop at Harrods. Visit Tower of London. B
Day 11: Departure
Depart for your flight home.
Breakfast, proceed to Stratford-Upon-Avon—birthplace of William Shakespeare, visit to Warwick Castle. The Castle has a chequered history which moves from its
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Wine Tour of France 11 Days & 10 Nights 2 Paris
2
Day 1: Paris
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative. Tour Paris passing by the major monuments and sights of the French capital (Concorde, Opera, Champs Elysées, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame), then transfer to your hotel. Evening welcome dinner at nearby restaurant. Overnight in Paris. D
Dijon
FRANCE
Lyon 2
Avignon 2
Nice
Day 2: Paris 2
Departure to Château de Versailles for a guided visit of the Kings palace and gardens including the famous Mirrors Gallery and the king’s apartments. Time to stroll in the gardens. Back to Paris for lunch, afternoon at leisure. B
Day 3: Dijon
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – France Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed wine expert-guide 10 days of touring with entrance fees 10 Breakfasts and 4 Dinners included (option for additional dinners available) 10 Night accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Morning drive to Burgundy region. Wine has shaped Burgundy’s destiny and left its imprint on the region’s way of life. Spend the afternoon & discover Dijon, capital city of Burgundy included today is a gingerbread tasting experience at a local boutique. Overnight in Dijon. B
Day 4: Burgendy Wine Road
Today is a full-day excursion in the Burgundy wine road. Discover the “Côte de Nuits” and stop for a visit with wine tasting at Nuits-Saint-Georges. Visit the Clos Vougeot castle. Afternoon visit to Beaune. Its famous building, l’Hotel Dieu, and the royal honeycombs with colored tiles on its roofs. The bottles of the Grands Crus slumber in their racks gathering dust and maturity. Overnight in Dijon. B
Day 5: Lyon
Drive to Lyon; upon arrival enjoy walking tour in the old town of Lyon. Admire the Fourvière Basilica. Dinner is at a typical brasserie named Le Nord; the brasserie belongs to the famous french chef Paul Bocuse. Overnight in Lyon. B D
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Nice
Day 6: Lyon
Drive along the wine route of Beaujolais and discover the villages of ‘Pierre Dorées’ (golden stones). The 40 villages involved produce not only the tender and fruity Beaujolais nouveau, but also the Beaujolais of the four seasons, The ‘Grappilleurs des Pierres Dorées’ are recognized wine-growers. Back to Lyon for dinner. Overnight in Lyon. B D
Day 7: Avigon
Drive to the south of France, in Provence region. Arrival (after lunch), we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Avignon: walk through the small streets of the old town and visit the famous Popal Palace and the St Benezet Bridge. Overnight in Avignon. B
Day 8: Avigon
Full-day excursion, explore a famous wine area and charming villages of Provence. First to Chateauneuf du Pape, where you will visit the wine museum and a tasting at a local cellar. Afternoon to ProvenceLuberon area. Discover the little villages as Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes or Isle sur la Sorgue. Overnight in Avignon. B
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Day 9: Nice
Drive today to the French Riviera. Stop in Cannes, with a panoramic city tour: le Boulevard de la Croisette, le Palais des festivals, le Marché Forville. Upon arrival in Nice, enjoy a guided walking tour of the old town of Nice. Overnight in Nice. B
Day 10: Nice – Monaco – Monte Carlo – Nice
Departure to the vineyards of Nice, to the Château de Bellet castle of the Barons of Bellet. Visit the vineyards, with wine tasting. Afternoon to Monaco, Monaco City: the Prince Palace, the Cathedral Sheltering Princess Grace Kelly’s grave, the Oceanographic Museum. Continue to the city of Monte Carlo. Free time to visit the famous casino, the Hotel de Paris, the gardens, the opera. Overnight in Nice. B D
Day 11: Departure
Transfer to Nice airport, board your flight to Paris before your return flight to the USA. B
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Turkey: Land of Mythology 13 Days & 12 Nights
Day 1: Istanbul
2 Istanbul
Cappadocia 2
Troy
1 Canakkale
TURKEY
Pergamum Izmir Kusadasi 2 Bodrum 1 1 Fethiye 1
Konya 2 Antalya
Kalkan
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Istanbul Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
Expert English speaking licensed guide
12 Days of ground touring with entrance fees
Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations
13 Breakfasts and 10 Dinners included
9 Nights accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
Inner domestic flight included
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative. Visit Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia Museum and the Blue Mosque. Nearby, site of the ancient Hippodrome, and the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column and Fountain of Wilhelm II. Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul
Breakfast then a visit to Istanbul Archeology Museum and next cross the Bosphorus Bridge to the Asian side to visit Maiden’s Tower on the Bosphorus. The tower is linked to the myth of Hero and Leander. You can have a 360 degrees view of Istanbul. Then we continue to the ‘’City of Blind’’ Chalcedon today’s Kadikoy. Overnight in Istanbul. B
Day 3: Istanbul – Troy
Set out for Troy, best known for the Trojan War, as described in the Epic Cycle and especially in the Iliad, one of the two epic poems attributed to Homer. See a reconstruction of the fabled Wooden Horse, the city ruins from a succession of 9 civilizations, the Roman Bouletarion, Theater and onsite museum. Overnight in Canakkale. B D
Day 4: Canakkale – Pergamum – Izmir
Drive to Pergamum to see Asclepion and the Acropolis. Pergamon Visit the library, altar of Zeus, the lower agora and the Red Basilica. Visit Asclepion, the ancient health center dedicated to Asclepius, the son of Apollo, who was a practitioner of medicine in ancient Greek mythology. Drive to Kusadasi for your overnight. B D
Day 5: İzmir – Ephesus – Kuşadası
Drive to Smyrna and visit the 2nd century A.D. agora, midway between the acropolis and the harbor. See Ephesus with its Odeon, the Fountain of Trajan, the temple of Hadrian and impressive library of Ephesus. Next stop is the Temple of Artemis (Diana) built in a honor of the Greek Goddess, Deemed as one of the Seven wonders of the Ancient World. Drive to Kusadası for overnight. B D
Day 6: Kuşadası – Didyma – Heraklia – Bodrum
Drive to Didyma famed as a prophecy center dedicated 14
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Antalya
to Apollo, similar in purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. Proceed to Heraclea, Herakles. This city is the place where according the myth of Endymion and Selene (the goddess of full moon) is supposed to take place. Drive to Bodrum; the city was called Halicarnassus of Caria in Ancient times. Also Salmakis Bay of Bodrum is the home of Hermaphroditus. Overnight in Bodrum. B D
Day 7: Letoon – Fethiye
Visit the city of Letoon. According to the myth; the city is built on the place where Leto gave birth to her twins Apollo and Diana (Artemis). The site has three temples, one with a beautiful mosaic panel set in its floor. Drive to Fethiye for overnight. B D
Day 8: Fethiye – Xanthos – Kalkan
Drive to Xanthos Valley named from the Ancient City of Xanthos. Although Homer’s Iliad may be a tragic tale, it pales to the real history of this city. On at least two separate and unrelated occasions, the population chose mass suicide rather than submission to invading armies. Travel to the lovely town of Kalkan for overnight. B D
Day 9: Olympos – Chimera – Antalya
Morning visit to Olympos the eternal flames called the Chimera may be seen issuing from the ground. The mythical Chimera a monster with the head of a lion, the body of a goat and the tail of a serpent, who roamed www.keytours.com
these woods and sprouted fire from her mouth. Chimera was killed by Bellerophon riding Pegasus according to mythology. Drive to Antalya for overnight. B D
Day 10: Aspendos
Today visit Aspendos Theatre. Aspendos is located to the east of Antalya and is famous for its best-preserved ancient amphitheater built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Drive back to Antalya for overnight. B D
Day 11: Antalya – Konya – Cappadocia
Morning drive to visit biblical city of Konya, we will visit the museum and mausoleum of the founder of the mystic cult of Whirling Dervishes. Love and tolerance to his multi cultural environment his followers are great place of veneration. Continue to Cappadocia for dinner and overnight. B D
Day 12: Cappadocia
Begin your discovery of Cappadocia with Goreme’s “Caves of God” a Unesco world heritage site. Visit Underground City of Kaymakli. You will see the ongoing erosion on the fairy chimneys of Pasabagi and natural fortress of Uchisar. Overnight in Cappadocia. B D
Day 13: Departure
Transfer to Antalya airport for the flight home.
B
15
Turkey: Expedition to Ancient Science and Literature 13 Days & 12 Nights Day 1: Istanbul
3 Istanbul
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Nicaea 1
1 Bursa
Canakkale
TURKEY
Pergamon 1 Izmir
Ephesus
1 Kusadasi
Bodrum 1 2 Marmaris
1
1 Antalya
Fethiye
Day 2: Istanbul
Breakfast; visit Topkapi Palace, Haghia Sophia (St Sophia’s Basilica), Blue Mosque, Byzantine Hippodrome, underground Cistern. Afternoon visit to the Grand Bazaar. Dinner and overnight. B D
Day 3: Antalya
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Istanbul Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed guide 10 days of touring with entrance fees included Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations 12 Breakfasts and 10 Dinners included 12 Nights accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
Inner domestic flight included
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Morning flight to Antalya. Drive to Perge the ancient city dating back to 1000 BC the capital city of the Ancient Pamphilia and home to Apollonius of Perga. A geometer and astronomer noted for his writings on conic sections. It was Apollonius who gave the ellipse, the parabola, and the hyperbola the names by which we know them. Overnight in Antalya. B D
Day 4: Antalya – Fethiye
Departure for Myra, Xanthos, and Letoon. Birthplace of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) and his church. Hear the story of honorable people of Xanthos who took their own lives rather than surrendering to the invader armies. Visit Letoon birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Overnight in Fethiye. B D
Day 5: Fethiye – Knidos – Marmaris
Drive to Knidos. The Temple of Apollo in Knidos was the center of six cities (Lindos, Camiros, Ialysos, Cos, Halicarnasse, Cnide) which were known as the Doric Hexapole. Knidos is also the home town of Eudoxos, Ctesias, the writer of Persian history, and Sostratus, the builder of the celebrated Pharos at Alexandria. B D
Day 6: Marmaris
Day at lesiure optional day trip to Rhodes. The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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B
Day 7: Marmaris – Bodrum
Drive to Bodrum where one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, named Mauseleoum once stood. Visit www.keytours.com
Ephesus
the Castle of St. Peter, includes one of the world’s best underwater archeology museums. This coastal town was the birthplace of the great Historian Heredotus. Dinner and overnight in Bodrum. B D
Day 8: Bodrum – Miletos – Kusadasi
is also home to Galen. who researched how different muscles are controlled at different levels of the spinal cord. He noted the functions of the kidney, bladder and brain. Also parchment was discovered here as well. Proceed to Canakkale for overnight. B D
Visit the birthplace of Thales, creator of science in Western civilization. The agora of the Miletos city also the place of Anaximander, the philosopher that counts Anaximenes and Phytagoras among his pupils, also home of Hippodamus of Miletos an ancient Architect, Urban Planner, Physician, Mathematician, Meteorologist and Philosopher. Drive to Kusadasi for overnight. B D
Day 11: Canakkale to Bursa
Day 9: Ephesus – Izmir
Depart for Iznik. The city became an important religious center when the first Council of Nicaea settled here in 325 AD. Visit the ancient tomb of Hipparkhos who invented trigonometry, the science of right angled triangles, discovered less than twenty years ago by a local boy digging on a hillside. Cross Marmara Sea by ferry and arrive in Istanbul. Tonight we will have a farewell dinner in a local restaurant. B D
Visit Ephesus, home of Herakleitos, Artemis (Diana) Temple which was one of the 7 wonders of the Ancient World, also home to Soranus one of the chief representatives of the Methodic school of medicine. Tour includes The Great Theatre, library of Celsius and the House of Virgin Mary where it’s believed she spent the last years of her life with St. John the Theologian; Overnight in Izmir. B D
Day 10: Izmir – Pergamum – Canakkale
Visit the Ancient Agora of Smyrna, birthplace of Homer, author of the Illiad and Odyssey. Onto Pergamum visit the Acropolis and Asclepion. Pergamum
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Drive to the legendary city of Troy, See the symbolic replica wooden Trojan horse that commemorates the epic war machine that was constructed in the 13th century BC. Then we proceed to Bursa and visit the Grand Mosque. Overnight in Bursa. B D
Day 12: Istanbul – Nicaea (Iznik) – Istanbul
Day 13: Istanbul – Return
After breakfast transfer to Istanbul airport for your return flight home. B
17
Countryside of Italy 10 Days & 9 Nights
Florence
Day 1: Rome 4 Tuscany
ITALY Rome 1
4 Umbria
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative. Transfer to hotel, rest of the day at leisure. A welcome dinner in a local restaurant will be arranged. Learn about Italy’s wines from a sommelier and enjoy a traditional 4-course meal, paired with some of the country’s finest wines. D
Day 2: Rome – Orvieto – Umbria
Breakfast, then to the town of Orvieto, known for its Gothic cathedral housing a Signorelli fresco. Enjoy a guided tour, of the Cappella Nuova, also known as San Brizio Chapel. The chapel houses one of the best known masterpieces of Renaissance Italian art. Leisurely lunch on your own then onto Trevi for the next four nights. B
Day 3: Umbria – Spoleto – Cooking Class – Umbria
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Italy Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
Expert English speaking licensed guide
9 days of touring with entrance fees included Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations 9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches and 3 Dinner included 9 Night accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Guided walking tour of Spoleto. See medieval palaces, the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Ponte delle Torri, an aqueduct dating back to the 13th century. Afternoon to a country restaurant where the chef provides a hands-on Umbrian cooking lesson. B L
Day 4: Umbria – Olive Oil Factory – Norcia – Montefalco – Umbria
A series of tastings today of Umbria’s famous food items. Visit a local olive oil factory in Trevi, Onto Norcia where butchers have handcrafted salami for centuries. Taste some of their sausages with pecorino cheeses. Visit the basilica of St. Benedict. stop off in Montefalco, visit to a local café to sip the region’s wine. B
Day 5: Umbria – Assisi – Cortona – Umbria
Depart for Assisi. Guided tour including the basilica dedicated to St. Francis, learn about Giotto’s frescos led by a local expert. Continue to Cortona, the Etruscan town. Enjoy a stroll around town, followed by a Tuscan dinner in one of Cortona’s historic locations. B D
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Tuscany
Day 6: Umbria – Siena – Monteriggioni – Tuscany
Day 9: Tuscany – San Gimignano – Volterra – Tuscany
Day 7: Tuscany – Florence – Tuscany
Day 10: Montaione
Today, leave Umbria to the city of Siena, enjoy a walking tour and visit the historic piazza. Continue to the town of Monteriggioni for a stroll along the piazza. Try some Tuscan pastries before continuing to Montaione, your home in Tuscany for the next four nights B
A short journey to Florence, A guided walking tour of the city sights, including the cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore, This afternoon meet Florence’s local artisans and visit their workshops. Enjoy free time to shop and explore before returning to Montaione. B
Spend the morning in San Gimignano. Enjoy a stroll along Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Cisterna and absorb the charm of this town. This afternoon travel to Volterra, and visit the Etruscan Museum, the Guarnacci Museum. Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner. B D
Breakfast, depart to the airport for your flight home.
B
Day 8: Tuscany – Winery – Montepulciano – Tuscany
Breakfast then a winery visit showcases the wine cellar, family estate, vineyards, olive groves. Experience the art of pasta making in a pasta making demonstration, enjoy a Tuscan lunch with wines produced on site. Explore the town of Montepulciano. B L
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19
Splender of Sicily 10 Days & 9 Nights ITALY
Day 1: Palermo
Welcome to Palermo the vibrant city of Sicily. Upon arrival you will meet and be assisted by your Key Tours representative. Transfer by private air-conditioned motorcoach to your hotel. A welcome dinner of traditional Sicilian cuisine at a local restaurant has been arranged. D Palermo 3
Monreale
Cefalú
SICILY
Taormina 2 Catania
Arigento 2
2 Siracusa
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Italy Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
Expert English speaking licensed guide
8 days touring with entrance fees included
9 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch and 2 Dinner included Regional wines included with every lunch and dinner 9 Night accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Day 2: Palermo – Monreale – Palermo
Breakfast, depart for Monreale, visit the 12th-century cathedral. Return to Palermo for a city tour featuring the squares of Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and Piazza Bellini also the Palace of the Normans, La Martorana Church, and the Cathedral, which houses the Imperial Crown of Constance of Aragon. B
Day 3: Palermo – Erice – Segesta – Palermo
Onto Erice this morning, a medieval city founded by the Phoenicians. Take a stroll in the public gardens and visit the lovely Castle of Venus. Visit the archaeological site of Segesta. Learn about the ancient settlers and their fascinating history from a local expert. B
Day 4: Palermo – Cefalù – Sicilian countryside – Agrigento
Morning visit to Cefalù home to a magnificent Cathedral in Sicily. Proceed to a family farm. Watch as they demonstrate how to make– ricotta cheese! A chef then prepares local specialties featuring the farm’s own products and recipes for your lunch. Day ends in Agrigento. B L
Day 5: Agrigento – Licata – Agrigento
Visit the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk around the temples of Juno, Concordia, Hercules and Jupiter. Then a guided tour of the Archaeological Museum. Visit a Sicilian Baron and his family at their 18th-century baglio and winery, sample their wines. B
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Taormina
Day 6: Agrigento – Siracusa
Coach through the beautiful Erei Mountains to Sicily’s Ionian Coast to Siracusa. Reflect on the grandeur of ancient Greece during an excursion to the historical sites in Siracusa. A local expert guides you through the Archaeological Park featuring Greek and Roman antiquities. B
Day 7: Siracusa – Noto – Ragusa – Siracusa
First stop is Noto followed by a walking tour, see Palaces, the Monastery, the City’s Duomo. After lunch, continue to Ragusa. Discover Sicily’s Baroque past and visit some of the town’s churches and monumental buildings. View of the Iblei Mountains complete the experience. B
Day 8: Siracusa – Catania
Morning visit to Catania, to Mount Etna, where a local guide shares its history. Visit the cathedral, view the sites of this historic city. Witness the art of bartering for fresh fish and produce when you visit the local market. Enjoy free time in Catania’s elegant center. B
Day 9: Catania – Taormina – Catania
During your guided tour of Taormina see the Greek Theatre, the Duomo and public gardens. Spend the afternoon dining at a sidewalk cafe or shopping in the town’s boutiques. Return to Catania, travel along the Cyclops Coast, evening farewell dinner included. B D
Day 10: Departure
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight home via Rome. B
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21
Philosophical Tour of Greece 9 Days & 8 Nights Day 1: Athens
Delphi Eleusis
GREECE
Vravrona 8 Athens Aegina
Meet greet and transfer to your hotel with your Key Tours representaive. In the evening, a “welcome” cocktail party will take place at the hotel. Overnight in Athens.
Day 2: Athens
Breakfast, begin your city tour, view the University, the Academy, the National Library, the Old Olympic Stadium, the Square of Constitution with the House of Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The Acropolis the Propylea, the Erechtheum, the Temple of Nike and, the Parthenon the Agora, the temple of Hephaestus, the remains of the Odeon of Agrippa, the Bouleuterion, the Metroon and more. Overnight at the hotel. B
Day 3: Athens
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Athens
Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed Professor-guide 7 days of touring with entrance fees included Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations 7 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner included (option for additional dinners available) 8 Night accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotels
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Breakfast then visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. Later drive to the suburb of Kolonos, to see the remains of Plato’s Academy and after that to Kerameikos, the public cemetery of ancient Athens. There visit a small museum with artifacts from the excavations. In the evening your first lecture will take place at the hotel. B
Day 4: Corinth
Take the coastal road to the Canal of Corinth. After a short stop, continue to the archaeological site of “Corinth”, home to one of the “Seven Sages of Ancient Greece”, Periander. Admire the imposing Acrocorinth, the Temple of Apollo, the Peirene Fountain and the Corinthian Ceramics in the Museum. Later, go southeast to Epidaurus to find the best-preserved ancient Theater in Hellas, Back to Athens for overnight. B
Day 5: Vravrona – Cape Sounion
Breakfast, visit to Vravrona (then, drive to Cape Sounion, the southeastern extremity of Attica, and enjoy the superb view from the Temple of Poseidon (5th c. B.C.) on top of this rocky headland. Overnight in Athens. B
Day 6: Eleusis The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Travel to Eleusis (Elefsina), close to Athens, the site of a famous secret cult. The Eleusinian Mysteries were based on the ancient Greek myth, see the Grotto that was believed to be
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Acropolis, Athens
the entrance to the Underworld. Explore the “mysteries” of this archaeological site. Afternoon free in Athens, in the evening your second lecture will take place at the hotel. B
Day 7: Aegina
Today, sail for the island of Aegina in the Saronic Gulf. Once a rival of classical Athens, Aegina town is nowadays a picturesque place full of neoclassical buildings. Your visit to the Temple of the local goddess Aphaea, gives you the right to say that you have seen all three classical temples that form the equilateral “triangle of perfection”. Return to Athens for overnight. B
Day 8: Delphi
Drive to Delphi, passing the cities of Thiva (Thebes) and Livadia. Apollo’s most important and famous oracle was there. Follow the Sacred Way up to Apollo’s Temple, where his priestess Pythia delivered his oblique prophecies, the Museum full of masterpieces, such as the bronze “Charioteer. Return to Athens for your farewell dinner in a Greek taverna in Plaka. Overnight at the hotel. B D
Day 9: Departure
Fly back home with a new insight into ancient Greek Philosophy. B
Choice of 2 cruises to add to your itinerary 3 Nights/4 days Day
Destination (Port)
Friday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Friday
Mykonos, Greece
Saturday
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Saturday
Patmos, Greece
Sunday
Santorini, Greece
Monday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
4 Nights/5 days
GREECE TURKEY Athens Mykonos Santorini Heraklion
www.keytours.com
Day
Destination (Port)
Monday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Monday
Mykonos, Greece
Tuesday
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Kusadasi Patmos Rhodes
Tuesday
Patmos, Greece
Wednesday Rhodes, Greece Thursday
Crete (Heraklion), Greece
Thursday
Santorini, Greece
Friday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
GREECE TURKEY Athens Mykonos Santorini
Kusadasi Patmos Rhodes
Heraklion
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Historical & Philosophical Tour of Greece 9 Days & 8 Nights 1
1 1
Thesaloniki
Day 1: Athens
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative In the evening a “welcome” cocktail party will take place followed by a “welcome” dinner. B
Kalambaka
Delphi
Day 2: Athens Sightseeing
GREECE 3 Athens 1
Olympia
Breakfast, visit the Acropolis, its Museum, Propylea, Nike Temple, Erechtheum and the Parthenon, the Monument of Philopappus, the Pnyka, the Areopagus, Temple of Hephaistus, Odeon of Agrippa, Stoa of Attalus, Kerameikos, cemetery of ancient Athens and its Museum. B D
Day 3: National Archaeological Museum
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Athens Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed Professor-guide
7 days of touring with entrance fees
8 Breakfasts and 08 Dinners included
8 Night accommodations with choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Visit Constitution Square, the House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Old Olympic Stadium, Temple of Olympian Zeus, National Archaeological Museum, The Cycladic figurines, the Mycenean treasures, and the Santorini frescoes are just a few of the collections to view. B D
Day 4: Corinth – Mycanae – Epidaurus – Olympia
Coach to the canal of Corinth, stop for pictures. Drive on to Mycanae to see the remains of this prehistoric acropolis, its Palace, the Grave Circles and the famous bee-hive Tombs. Continue to Epidaurus In the afternoon we arrive to Olympia for dinner and overnight. B D
Day 5: Olympia – Delphi
Breakfast, visit the ruins of Hera’s and Zeus’s Temples, the Leonidaion, the Workshop of the sculptor Pheidias, the famous Stadium where the Olympic Games were held. Visit the Museum and see, the “Hermes” of Praxiteles, North to Patras and drive to Delphi. Dinner and overnight in Delphi. B D
Day 6: Delphi – Kalambaka
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Breakfast then to Apollo’s Temple, the Roman Market place, the Treasuries), the Stoa of the Athenians, the Theater and the Stadium of Delphi, the Museum’s Charioteer” Archaic Kouroi, Sphinx of the Naxians, the Frieze of the Athenian Treasury, the Statue of Antinoos. Continue to Kalambaka, for dinner and overnight. B D www.keytours.com
Hanging Monestry, Meteora (Kalambaka)
Day 7: Meteora, Vergina – Thessaloniki
See the Byzantine monasteries of Meteora, drive from Kalambaka to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the Museum. Continue to Lefkadia, view the Macedonian tombs, then to Vergina, onto Thessaloniki for dinner and overnight. B D
Day 8: Thessaloniki – Athens
View the White Tower, the Arch of Galerius, the area of the Acropolis with the Byzantine Walls and others.
Visit the Archaeological Museum, Mt. Olympus, the Byzantine Castle of latamonas, the Valley of Tembi, and Thermopylae Pass, this evening enjoy a farewell dinner in Plaka. B D
Day 9: Departure
You will be transferred to the Athens International Airport for your flight back home, full of wonderful memories from your journey and a new insight in Greek History and Philosophy. B
Choice of 2 cruises to add to your itinerary 3 Nights/4 days
4 Nights/5 days
Day
Destination (Port)
Day
Destination (Port)
Friday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Monday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Friday
Mykonos, Greece
Monday
Mykonos, Greece
Saturday
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Tuesday
Saturday
Patmos, Greece
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Sunday
Santorini, Greece
Mykonos
Monday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Santorini
GREECE TURKEY Athens
Heraklion
www.keytours.com
Kusadasi Patmos Rhodes
Tuesday
Patmos, Greece
Wednesday Rhodes, Greece Thursday
Crete (Heraklion), Greece
Thursday
Santorini, Greece
Friday
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
GREECE TURKEY Athens Mykonos Santorini
Kusadasi Patmos Rhodes
Heraklion
25
Historic Lodgings of Spain & Portugal 14 Days & 13 Nights
Day 1: Lisbon SPAIN
Lisbon 2
1
3
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative. The remainder of the day is at leisure before dinner at our hotel. D
Madrid
Day 2: Lisbon – Queluz
Evora Carmona
2
Ubeda
3
PORTUGAL Seville
2 Ronda
Breakfast, city tour includes the Jeronimos Monastery; Belem Tower; and the Monument to the Discoverie, National Palace of Queluz, the former residence of Portuguese royalty. Remainder of day at leisure. B
Day 3: Lisbon – Evora
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Portugal – Spain Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed guide 10 days of ground touring with entrance fees 13 Breakfasts, 1 lunch and 10 Dinners included 13 Night accommodations in choice of 4, 5 star hotels & historic 4 star Paradores & Pousadas
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Departing Lisbon, we travel through the agricultural Alentejo district. Stop for lunch in the fortified hilltop town of Monsaraz (pop. 150), afternoon arrival in Evora, capital of the Alentejo and site of our pousada. B L D
Day 4: Evora
Walking tour of Evora introduces us to the charms of this architectural jewel—a prosperous regional capital, and UNESCO World Heritage site, view the many relics of its Roman and Moorish heritage. Afternoon is at leisure. B D
Day 5: Evora – Merida – Carmona
Today we travel east to the Spanish border town of Merida which boasts outstanding Roman ruins. There’s time to explore and eat lunch on our own before we continue to Carmona and our parador. B D
Day 6: Carmona – Seville
Visit to Seville, Moorish capital of Spain’s Andalusia region and home of the Cathedral, the world’s largest Gothic building. After a tour that includes the palace and the Arab quarter, afternoon free to explore. Afternoon back to Carmona for dinner at our parador. B D
Day 7: Carmona – Cordoba The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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Today’s visit, Cordoba features some of the country’s most important monuments, including the Old Quarter,
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Seville
Mezquita Mosque Cordoba also is home to Andalusia’s only synagogue After touring these and other highlights, free time to explore on our own. Return to our parador for dinner and overnight. B D
Day 8: Carmona – Ronda
Morning departure to Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest and most aristocratic towns. Set high in the mountains with its whitewashed houses, clinging to the edge of El Tajo Gorge—500 feet deep and 300 feet wide. After a brief walking tour, then afternoon is at leisure. B D
Day 9: Ronda
Today is at leisure to enjoy this charming and historic town on our own. Tonight we dine on regional specialties at our parador, Ronda’s original town hall. B D
Day 10: Ronda – Granada – Ubeda
Today travel to Granada, The city’s highlight is the Alhambra, the palace of Spain’s last Moorish rulers. Afternoon tour of the citadel, also the Generalife, the palace’s acclaimed gardens. Later north to Ubeda and our next parador, a former palace in the 16th century and where we dine tonight. B D
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Day 11: Ubeda – Toledo – Madrid
Visit to Toledo, capital of medieval Spain. Declared a Spanish National Landmark, the city is little changed visually from its 16th-century days as a subject for the artist El Greco. After lunch on your own. Guided tour, includes the Gothic Cathedral begun in 1226 and finished in 1493. Continue to Madrid, overnight Madrid. B
Day 12: Madrid
Morning tour includes Plaza Mayor, Palacio Real (Royal Palace), tour ends at the Prado, one of the world’s greatest museums, where your free to explore on your own. Displaying such masters by Goya, El Greco, and Velazquez. The remainder of the day is at leisure. B D
Day 13: Madrid
After breakfast a free day to enjoy Madrid and shop. Tonight we bid “Adios” to Spain with a farewell dinner. B D
Day 14: Departure
We transfer to the airport this morning for our flight back home. B
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Madrid and Andalusia: Golf and Historical Tour 12 Days/11 Nights Day 1: Madrid SPAIN
Madrid 4
Day 2: Madrid (Golf Day)
Cordoba Seville 3
Granada Ronda
4
Costa del Sol
La Dehesa Golf Club & Resort This beautiful 18 hole par 72 course with breathtaking natural habitat will leave you wanting ,more. www.golfladehesa.es
Round-trip air USA – Spain Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative
Day 3: San Lorenzo Del Escorial
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach Expert English speaking licensed guide 7 days of golfing on some of the very best courses in Spain All Green fees included 7 Days of touring with entrance fees included Choice of 4 or 5 star hotel accommodations 11 Breakfasts and 01 Dinner 11 Night accommodations in choice of 4 or 5 star accommodations
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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After breakfast transfer to the golf course choose from two courses. Return to the hotel. Rest of day at leisure. B
Retamares Casino And Golf Resort Host to the 2007 European Tour as well as the Ladies Masters. This course offers 5 lakes on the premise. www.golfretamares.com
Tour Features Include:
Meet, Assist and transfer to hotel. Afternoon panoramic tour, viewing the main avenues and monumental fountains (Cibeles, Neptuno), Plaza Mayor and the old town, including entrance to the famous Prado Museum. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. D
Morning transfer to the golf course in San Lorenzo Del Escorial with sensational views of Spain’s mountains and the monastery of El Escorial. Afternoon visit to the monastery is included. Return to our hotel in Madrid. B Real Club de Golf la Herrería The whole infrastructure of the club is aimed at making a day’s golfing enjoyable, be it adults or children. www.golflaherreria.com
Day 4: Los Angeles De San Rafael – Segovia
Morning transfer to the golf course in Los Angeles De San Rafael, play a round of golf near the mountains. Afternoon drive to nearby Segovia for a visit to Alcazar, which inspired Walt Disney for the castle of Snow White’s fairy tale. Also visit the best preserved Roman aqueduct in the world. Return to Madrid for our overnight accommodations. B Asr Club de Golf This stunning 18 hole, 71 par course designed by Blake Stirling and Marco Martín. www.asrgolf.com
Day 5: Madrid – Cordoba – Seville
Depart for a sightseeing tour of Cordoba. Afternoon guided city tour, includes its historical Mosque, Jewish Quarter, and www.keytours.com
Club de Golf Vladerrama
Real Club de Golf de Sevilla
Finca Cortesin
its perfectly preserved Synagogues. Check into your hotel in Seville. B
of the bullring, built in 1784, totally of stone, which is considered to be the oldest in Spain.
Day 6: Seville
Day 9: Costa del Sol
Morning transfer to the golf course in the surroundings Seville area. Afternoon tour, visit the Gothic Cathedral, the largest in Spain. Then walk by Santa Cruz Quarter, a maze of small alleys with colorful names stepped in legend. Return to hotel, afternoon at leisure. B Real Club de Golf de Sevilla The highly balanced design 18 hole, 72-par golf course makes it an excellent venue for any high level competition, be it amateur or professional. The extensive course was designed by Jose Maria Olazabal Spain’s famous golfer
Day 7: Sevilla – Jerez De La Frontera. – Ronda – Costa del Sol
Departure to Jerez de la Frontera, visit a sherry wine cellar and taste a sample. Continue along the ‘Route Of The White Villages’ the bright white houses with narrow and labyrinth streets.Visit the bullring, built in 1784, totally of stone, considered the oldest and nicest in Spain. Overnight in Costa del Sol. B
After breakfast we transfer to our golf course for another wonderful day of golf. Return to the hotel, rest of day at leisure. B Flamingos Golf club (Marbella) The 18 hole course, par 71 was designed by renowned architect Antonio García Garrido. www.flamingos-golf.com Optional Half Day Malaga City Tour: Our tour will include the most emblematic corners of the city, such as Larios street, Pasaje de Chinitas, Plaza de la Merced (where Picasso was born), the Renaissance Cathedral, the Alcazaba (Muslim castle), Town hall, the Bullring and the Park.
Day 10: Costa del Sol – Granada
Full day excursion to Granada, with a city tour, visit La Alhambra, also visit the famous Generalife gardens with its fountains. Afternoon at leisure, return to Costa del Sol for your overnight accommodations. B
Day 8: Costa del Sol
Day 11: Costa del Sol
After breakfast we transfer to our golf course for wonderful day of golf. Return to the hotel. Rest of day at leisure. B
After breakfast we transfer to our golf course for another and last wonderful day of golf at Club de Golf Vladerrama.. Return to the hotel, rest of day at leisure. B
Club de Golf Vladerrama Voted # 1 in Continental Europe by Golf Monthly. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr Home of the World Golf Championships - American Express Championship, which were won by Tiger Woods and Mike Weir respectively in 1999. Also host of the 2000 Ryder Cup, this course is truly world class! www.valderrama.com
Finca Cortesin (Near Estepona) Home of the Volvo world Championship and designed by Cabell Robinson one of Europe’s top golf course designers. The course, at 6800 meters with 18 holes and more than 100 bunkers is one of the finest courses in Spain. www.fincacortesin.com
Optional Tour to Ronda: Visit the Church of Santa María, formerly the Mosque, with Gothic and Renaissance architecture, Plateresque altarpiece and choir stalls and Hispano-Moslem tower. Then tour of the old town, rich in places of interest, palaces and convents. Our tour will end with a visit www.keytours.com
Optional Tour to Gibralter Panoramic tour of the Rock and visit St. Michael Cave and the Apes Den. St Michael’s Cave The Apes are a species of tailless monkeys called Barbary Macaques.
Day 12: Departure
After breakfast transfer to the Malaga Airport for your flight home. B 29
Castles of Central Europe 10 Days & 9 Nights
Day 1: Munich
GERMANY CZECH 3
Prague
Munich 1 1
Linderhof
1
Salzburg
1
2 Vienna Hluboka
AUSTRIA
Meet, assist and transfer upon arrival by your Key Tours representative to Munich for your tour of Nymphenburg Palace, summer residence of the Wittelsbacher family, the place where Ludwig II was born, and the Martallmuseum, remainder of the day at leisure. Tonight, welcome dinner at local restaurant. D
Day 2: Munich – Linderhof
Today visit the fairytale fantasy of “Mad” King Ludwig: Neuschwanstein Castle. Continue to Hohenschwangau castle, the castle built by his father Maximilian, the last one is Linderhof castle. Smallest castle hiding deep in the forest. Dinner at hotel. B D
Tour Features Include:
Round-trip air USA – Munich – Prague Meet and assist upon arrival by your Key Tours representative
Deluxe private air-conditioned motorcoach
Expert English speaking licensed guide
9 days of touring with entrance fees
Choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel accommodations
7 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners (3 course meals) included 9 Night accommodations in choice of 3, 4, 5 star hotel
All transfers
Hotel taxes and service charges
Porterage of 1 suitcase per person
Key Tours Escrow Protection Plan
Day 3: Linderhof – Salzburg
Depart for Salzburg, home to the sound of music and birthplace of mozart. Sightseeing tour of the city, featuring the Cathedral, Getreidegasse pedestrian shopping street, Hohensalzburg medieval fortress and the Mirabell Palace. Also visit the birthplace of Mozart. Dinner at hotel. B D
Day 4: Salzburg – Vienna
We head to Vienna, upon arrival tour vienna most famous sights: Opera, Hofburg Palace, National Museum, Town hall, Burgtheater, University, Parliament including an inside visit at St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Dinner at local restaurant included. B D
Day 5: Vienna
Today we visit and tour Schonbrunn Palace Austria’s answer to Louis XIV’s Versailles. See Maria Theresa’s summer palace and enjoy free time in the splendid baroque garden. Afternoon at leisure. Evening concert of Strauss’ and Mozart’s music. B
The itinerary can be modified and tailored to the specific requirements and budget of your group.
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www.keytours.com
Prague
Day 6: Vienna – Cesky Krumlov – Hluboka
We leave for Czech Republic to Cesky Krumlov one of the best preserved medieval towns in the world. On the UNESCO World Heritage list it ranks number two. Free time for lunch, tour of the Castle of Cesky Krumlov. On to Hluboka and Vltavou. Dinner at hotel. B D
Day 7: Hluboka – Kutna Hora – Prague
Breakfast. Visit the Hluboka Chateau, And the Bohemian Gallery. Drive to Kutná Hora. Walk through the historical centre, also put on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Visit the Church of St. Barbara the Old Mint, the Ossuary, and the instruments and manuscripts of Beethoven and Mozart. Prague. Dinner at hotel. B D
www.keytours.com
Day 8: Prague
Breakfast, cross the Vltava river and visit to the Royal Castle of Hradcany and St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, Golden Lane with Daliborka Tower. The balance of the day is at leisure. B
Day 9: Prague
Breakfast. Tour the old part of the city, view the Old Town Square, the famous astronomical clock, the jewish quarter, St. Nicholas church, charles bridge and more. Rest of the day at leisure. B
Day 10: Depart Prague
After breakfast, transfer to the Prague airport for your departure flight. B
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