Patmos Island, Greece. Flickr:Giacomo Gasperini

Central Greek Aegean Sea

Name: Central Greek Aegean Sea
Brand: Tripsite
SKU: ts118o1201
Rating: 4.3 (6 reviews)

Greece Bike + Barge Tours

Cycle Greece by island hopping the Aegean from Bodrum

Tour Type
Guided
Skill Level
Moderate–Difficult
Length
8 days
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Prices from
€1490 Rates
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Overview
Itinerary
Boats
Inclusions
Dates & Pricing
Extra Info
Photos
Reviews

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Overview
On this Greece bike tour, you will explore the sunny islands of the Greek Aegean and stay aboard a comfortable Turkish Gulet. Although this Greece bicycle tour begins in Turkey, all the islands that will be visited are part of Greece. These islands are magical and mystical, rich in history and legends.
This is a world where the sun paints its pictures and the sea provides life. Join this tour and sail the Greek Aegean, relax in idyllic bays, enjoy the wonderful views, and follow the traces of a moving and glorious past.
Highlights
- The ancient Asclepion where Hippocrates, the famous physician, practiced modern medicine
- The lovely island of Lipsi
- Patmos, the holy island
- Astonishing panoramic views
Interested in more tours like this? Check out our full list of bike and boat tours in Greece.
View 34 Photos
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bodrum
Day 2: Island of Kos, Kos Town 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 3: Island Leros, 16 mi. (25 km)
Day 4: Island of Patmos - Island of Lipsi, 7-10 mi. (12-16 km)
Day 5: Island of Lipsi - Island of Kalymnos, 6-10 mi. (9-16 km)
Day 6: Island of Kalymnos, 19-29 mi. (30-45 km)
Day 7: Island of Kos - Bodrum, 12 mi. (20 km)
Day 8: Disembarkation in Bodrum
*All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, etc.
Day 1: Arrival in Bodrum
Individual arrival to Bodrum harbor. Collective transfers from Bodrum Airport to the harbor are available for an extra cost on request. Check-in begins on your ship at 2 pm. Alternatively, you can fly to Kos Airport and take the ferry across to Bodrum for check-in (if you choose to arrive via Kos, make sure that your flight arrives no later than 2 pm in Kos in order to catch the ferry connection). You can use the evening hours to enjoy the lively vibe in the city of Bodrum and relax with a typical Turkish tea. In the evening, a collective dinner on board can be enjoyed in the company of your travel companions and tour guides.
Day 2: Island of Kos, Kos Town 19 mi. (30 km)
In the morning, you will cross over to Kos. You will cycle to the picturesque Tingaki Beach to enjoy a lengthy swim in the sea. On the way, you will pass the world-famous archaeological site of the Asclipion of Kos - the place where Hippocrates, the famous physician, practiced modern medicine. Continuing along, the group will reach the town of Kos. An entourage of cultural sights in Kos town will give you an insight into the town’s turbulent historical past: The Roman Forum, the Fortress of the Knights, and the mosques from the time when Kos was still part of the Ottomans Empire. The evening is rounded off in one of the numerous bars and cafes.
Day 3: Island Leros, 17.5 mi. (28 km)
Early morning crossing to the scenic Island of Leros. Leros is green, varied, and always offers new and surprising views and many small harbors. As you cycle Greece in the morning you will head to the fort of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem in Agia Marina and into the small laneways of the town. After an espresso break in the idyllic harbor of the town, it is on to the seaside chapel of Agios Isidoros. Following the sea, you reach a beautiful sandy beach where you may stop for a swim or a coffee. Upon arrival, the boat will cast off for Patmos or a nearby bay.
Day 4: Island of Patmos - Island of Lipsi, 7-10 mi. (12-16 km)
On a short panoramic cycle tour, you will visit Patmos and its grotto. It is said that St. John received the revelation during his captivity here. The world-famous monastery of St. John of Chora is found in a village with numerous white alleys, 34 churches, and chapels radiating heavenly peace. After a visit, you will continue along the coast until reaching the port. The group will enjoy lunch on the boat before cruising on to Lipsi. Enjoy the afternoon in the charming harbor town and do not miss a visit to the legendary pastry shop!
Day 5: Island of Lipsi - Island of Kalymnos, 6-10 mi. (9-16 km)
In the late morning, you will explore Lipsi by bicycle and gain an impression of its rich agriculture following a tour once around the island. A short crossing in the afternoon takes you to the green island of Kalymnos. Overnight stay in a bay.
Day 6: Island of Kalymnos, 19-29 mi. (30-45 km)
After a nourishing breakfast, you will cycle across the island. Starting at Emporios, you first cycle along the western coast and continue over a mountain pass opening up into a surprisingly green valley. Today's route goes through varied landscapes leading to the main village of Pothia. In the afternoon, you will have enough time to explore the old town center in Pothia on foot. One can clearly identify the wealth which sponge diving brought to the inhabitants of this town. Overnight stay at the harbor or in anchor.
Day 7: Island of Kos - Bodrum, 12 mi. (20 km)
In the morning, you cross over to Kos. The last cycling trip begins here and leads you to the Embros thermal springs, where you can enjoy a lengthy swim. After lunch ashore, you will enjoy the last cruise aboard before reaching Bodrum. Here you can once more go for a walk through the lively and eastern old town of Bodrum with its impressive castle of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem and the remains of the famous Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. An evening meal is enjoyed together in the company of guides and guests.
Day 8: Disembarkation in Bodrum
After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport or you may extend your stay in Europe.
Istanbul 4-day extension (pre- or post-tour)
Stay in the old town of Istanbul for 3 nights in a boutique hotel (bed and breakfast). Explore the city on a two-day guided cultural tour, including a 2-3 hour boat trip on the Bosporus, entrance into Hagia Sofia, and one dinner at a restaurant in Bosporus. Excluding drinks. Return airport transfers from Istanbul to the hotel are also included. See pricing for details.
Looking for more? View all of our featured bike and boat tours, or our full list of bicycle tours.
Boats
Aboard the Premium class ship, the Osman Kurt or the Love Boat.
Boat Types: Premium
- Love Boat
  Premium
  ?
  4 out of 5 (4 Reviews)
  View Boat
  Premium Class Yacht
  The Love Boat has all the amenities and the elegance of an exclusive yacht. While sailing or mooring, the sun beds spread out on the deck will offer you an excellent opportunity to sunbathe and relax. The professional and experienced crew ensures the safety and convenience of all guests. Enjoy the sea from the comfort of your home. Read More
- Osman Kurt
  Premium
  ?
  
  View Boat
  Premium Class Boat
  The Osman Kurt is an beautifully designed, 32-meter Gulet made of wood that has been crossing the sea since 2000. It was rebuilt in 2007 and features seven comfortably furnished guest cabins. The cabins, four with double beds and three with twin beds, are situated near the comfortable lounge for your relaxation. All cabins are equipped with a bathroom, a shower / WC , and air-conditioning. Numerous reclining options offer plenty of space on the sun deck for you to relax while sailing, giving… Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations below deck for 8 days/7 nights on a comfort class boat
- 7 days half board (2 meals per day)
- Bed linen and towels
- Bike tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
- 21-gear trekking bike with an Ortlieb saddle bag
- Overview-maps for the daily tours (on board)
- Entrances to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
- English and German-speaking tour guide
What’s Not Included
- Drinks (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain); flat fee for drinking water: 20 Euro/adult; 10 Euro/children till age of 16
- Meals on land
- Gratuities for crew & tour guide (optional)
- Transfer to and from the airport/harbor (reservation required)
- WiFi - the Turkish boats do not offer WiFi connection
- Bike protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
2021
Saturday departures
April 17, May 1, June 5, September 4, September 25 & October 2, 2021
2022
Saturday departures
April 16, April 30, May 28, June 4, September 3, & October 1, 2022

Please Note
- Rates are based on double occupancy
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- † Currency exchange rate set 90 days before travel
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2021
Osman Kurt
Twin cabin, below deck
April 17: $ 2290 £ 1210 $ 2,099 € 1390 ₪ 5429 NZ$ 2412 kr 14461 $ 1,683
May 1, June 5 & October 2: $ 2455 £ 1297 $ 2,250 € 1490 ₪ 5820 NZ$ 2586 kr 15501 $ 1,804
September 4: $ 2620 £ 1384 $ 2,401 € 1590 ₪ 6210 NZ$ 2760 kr 16542 $ 1,925
Single supplement double cabin below deck (limited): $ 824 £ 435 $ 755 € 500 ₪ 1953 NZ$ 868 kr 5202 $ 605
Love Boat
September 25, 2021
Twin cabin, below deck: $ 2455 £ 1297 $ 2,250 € 1490 ₪ 5820 NZ$ 2586 kr 15501 $ 1,804
Above deck surcharge: $ 247 £ 131 $ 227 € 150 ₪ 586 NZ$ 260 kr 1561 $ 182
Single supplement double cabin above deck (limited): $ 1153 £ 609 $ 1,057 € 700 ₪ 2734 NZ$ 1215 kr 7282 $ 847
2022
Osman Kurt
Twin cabin, below deck
April 16: $ 2290 £ 1210 $ 2,099 € 1390 ₪ 5429 NZ$ 2412 kr 14461 $ 1,683
April 30, May 28, June 4 & October 1: $ 2455 £ 1297 $ 2,250 € 1490 ₪ 5820 NZ$ 2586 kr 15501 $ 1,804
September 3: $ 2620 £ 1384 $ 2,401 € 1590 ₪ 6210 NZ$ 2760 kr 16542 $ 1,925
Single supplement double cabin below deck (limited): $ 824 £ 435 $ 755 € 500 ₪ 1953 NZ$ 868 kr 5202 $ 605
Special offer: For all new bookings between the end of May and the end of August, 2021.
- Book now and pay later. Full payment is due only 30 days before the tour.
- Free cancellation and rebooking to a later tour in 2021 up to 31 days before the tour.
Extra Options
2021 & 2022
Electric bicycle rental (limited number, advanced reservation required): $ 165 £ 87 $ 151 € 100 ₪ 391 NZ$ 174 kr 1040 $ 121
Hybrid bicycle protection: $ 16 £ 9 $ 15 € 10 ₪ 39 NZ$ 17 kr 104 $ 12
Electric bicycle protection: $ 33 £ 17 $ 30 € 20 ₪ 78 NZ$ 35 kr 208 $ 24
Collective transfer between Bodrum airport and boat (embarkation/disembarkation days, must be reserved in advance, flight information necessary): $ 25 £ 13 $ 23 € 15 ₪ 59 NZ$ 26 kr 156 $ 18 Customized transfers are also available: on request
4-day pre- or post-tour Istanbul extension:
Double: $ 840 £ 444 $ 770 € 510 ₪ 1992 NZ$ 885 kr 5306 $ 617 Single: $ 1186 £ 627 $ 1,087 € 720 ₪ 2812 NZ$ 1250 kr 7491 $ 872
Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate–Difficult
This is a moderate to difficult guided bike and boat tour. It is assumed that participants have good stamina, ideally acquired by frequent biking. The routes reach an altitude of 200-500 meters. The roads are mostly asphalted and lightly trafficked as much as possible. The daily biking distances range from 9 to 28 miles (15 to 45 km). Routes cover hilly and mountainous terrain but can be completed without time restraints. You will also come across some long and rather steep climbs, where you may want to push your bike. The tour guides will inform you about the course of the tour in due time. You may have the option to cycle individually or with other participants but this cannot be guaranteed. Your tour guide will assist with recommending suitable routes.
Airport Info
The most convenient airport to fly into and out of is Bodrum Airport (BJV). Transfers to and from the ship are available. See pricing. Alternatively, you can fly via the Greek island of Kos with a continuation by ferry to Bodrum. You can reach the island of Kos by scheduled flights through Athens or directly from many European cities. Use one of the many flight search engines for the cheapest rates.
Local Travel
Flying into/out of Bodrum
From the Bodrum airport, a transfer to the ship can be arranged with advanced reservation. See pricing.

Flying into/out of Kos
If you opt to arrive via Kos, from Kos Airport , you can take a taxi to the ferry terminal in Kos Town. The travel time is about 30 minutes and the cost is about €37-€45. Taxis can be found directly at the airport terminal.
You can also use public transportation. When you go out of the arrivals hall, you will find the bus station on your left, at a walking distance of about 25 meters. Here the bus departs to Kos town via Mastichari. The journey time is 40 minutes to Kos city. Tickets can be bought on board the bus for a price of € 3.20. The ferry crossing to Bodrum takes about 1 hour. You should be in Kos harbor at least 30 minutes before the ferry departs to allow time for border formalities. The departure is usually at 16:30, so you arrive at 17:30 in Bodrum. In Bodrum, a staff person can be waiting after the border check to escort you to the ship but you will need to provide your travel details. The return trip from Bodrum is usually at 9:30 am with arrival in Kos at 10:30 am. The ferry ticket costs about 19 euros each way and should be booked in advance online.
Climate
Check local conditions prior to departure. Average high/low temperature in °F for the Bodrum area is: 68/57 for April, 76/63 for May, and 85/71 for September.
Day of Rest
You can always choose to skip a day’s bike tour and spend the time sunbathing on the ship instead.
Recommended
Helmet use is mandatory on all bike rides. You are strongly encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet. There are helmets available on board in limited number (reservation required).
Remarks
Please be aware that you will be part of an international group of people. Minimum number of participants is 14, maximum number is 30. This tour is operated parallel with an MTB tour in the same boat. One guide will cater to the hybrid bike riders while the other guide leads the MTB group.
Important to know
Travel Documents
Before you travel, please check your country's passport and visa requirements and the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc. For our other international clients, please be sure that you research your own country's travel requirements. It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure proper documentation.
*Important note: Beginning July 1, 2021, additional documentation from the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Other important information
Please book outward flights after midday into afternoon hours to allow yourself enough time to get from the ship to the airport.
Extra Stay
Extra nights before or after the tour: Hotel Comca Manzara in Bodrum or 5* Hotel Hapimag Seagarden near Bodrum - pricing on request.

4-DAY PRE- OR POST TOUR EXTENSION IN ISTANBUL
Day 1
After arriving at Istanbul Airport a transfer will bring you to the hotel. Peering out of the car window, you will gain your first impressions of this exciting city. Check into the Recital Boutique Hotel – your home for the next 3 days.
Day 2
After breakfast, a boat tour on the Bosporus will give you a perspective of the city from the water. Under the two giant hanging bridges, past countless palaces, summer villas, wooden huts as well as the fortress of Rumeli Hisari and back to the Golden Horn. Visit the Galata Tower on the northern shore of the Golden Horn before continuing on to the Pera Art Museum. After a break for lunch, it is time to experience ‘modern Istanbul’ – a stroll through the Beyoglu suburb, the center of Western culture in Istanbul.
Day 3
Today will be filled with visitations of architectural masterpieces of the Byzantine era in the old town of Istanbul: Visit the Hagia Sophia in the morning – the crowning church of the Byzantine emperor. Another unforgettable visitation is that of the Topkapi Palace, the former residence and governing seat of Sultans in the Ottoman Empire as well as the Sultan-Ahmed Mosque (‘Blue Mosque’). In the afternoon, visit the Hippodrom – the athletic and social center of the Byzantine Empire – as well as the Hippodrom Exhibition in an ancient Byzantine water cistern in the art museum, Nakkas. The day can be rounded off by marveling at local handcrafts while enjoying a great glass of wine. A farewell dinner is hosted on the shores of the Bosporus at the foot of the Galata Bridge.
Day 4
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy the last impressions of the city as your transfer takes you to the Airport.
Tour Operator
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Island Hopping.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.
Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Photos
Reviews
David C.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Most Memorable Part? Bicycling to the monastery on Patmos
Reply
Elara 1
Julie B.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Best Part? Getting to know new awesome people on the trip!
Reply
Love Boat
Annette K.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
An amazing experience with great friends
Reply
Love Boat
Kimberly H.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Loved the various opportunities to swim in the sea, off the boat and at the beach. It was interesting to learn the unique history of each island we visited.
Reply
Love Boat
Bryan L.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
The rides were the most memorable, very enjoyable and scenic. However there were a few issues. Disappointed with the bikes, for example the rubber on the pedals were so worn that my shoes constantly slipped on the exposed metal of the pedals. One of the guides switched his pedals with my bike, the guides seemed aware of the problem and it was obvious this issue had been raised before. Our toilet was leaking when we first arrived on the boat and we had quite a bit of water on the floor of the bathroom. Also the generator of the boat was switched off at night making the rooms uncomfortably hot. I don't understand why shore power wasn't utilized.
Reply
Elara 1
Terrie M.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Breathtaking views on hilltops on all the Greek islands. The narrow streets of Patmos and Lesos islands were fun and charming. The guides were knowledgeable and agendas fit the the groups ability. Thank you!
Reply
Elara 1
Show All 6 Reviews