Take in the best of Turkey on this 11-day group tour from Istanbul. Discover the highlights of this historic city, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara, discover the underground cities and dramatic landscapes of Cappadocia and marvel at the white cotton castles of Pamukkale. Visit the legendary ruined city of Ephesus, see the replica Trojan Horse at Troy and pay your respects at the memorials of Gallipoli. Return to Istanbul for last-minute shopping at the famous Grand Bazaar!
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Turkey!
Welcome to Istanbul! On arrival in the city, you will be escorted to our hotel. There is a brief welcome meeting at 19:00 and then the rest of the evening is at leisure for you to relax or head out and explore the city, formerly known as Constantinople.
Overnight: Istanbul
City sightseeing
Today we discover the sights of Istanbul, one of Europe's oldest and most fascinating cities, straddling the border with Asia. We visit Topkapi Palace, which was home to the majority of Ottoman sultans between 1453 and 1852. Take in the Hippodrome, once home to chariot racing, and uncover the beautiful Blue Mosque. We also see the exterior of the spectacular Hagia Sofia before an optional dinner, complete with traditional belly dancing entertainment.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Istanbul to Ankara
Istanbul - Ankara. Today you can either enjoy a relaxing morning at the hotel, or join an optional cruise along the Bosphorus, the narrow strait of water that divides Istanbul and marks the border between Europe and Asia. The shores of the Bosphorus are lined with Ottoman villas and fortresses, modern hotels and lush parks and gardens.
It's then time to depart Istanbul and make our way to Turkey's capital city, Ankara.
Overnight: Ankara | Breakfast, Dinner
Ankara & Cappadocia
Ankara - Cappadocia. Today we enjoy an included visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, housed in a historic caravanserai and featuring Hittite artifacts dating back several thousand years. We also visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, father of modern Turkey.
Leaving Ankara behind, we make our way east to Cappadocia, a land of magical landscapes and underground cities. We visit one such city, Saratli and enjoy an included group dinner at a local restaurant. You can then opt to watch a Whirling Dervishes performance or spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Cappadocia
Consider a memorable sunrise hot air balloon ride over the volcanic valleys of Cappadocia this morning. After breakfast at the hotel, we head to Goreme. This historic region is famous for its dramatic rock formations and rock churches, many of which can still be seen today. We also take in the pretty riverside town of Avanos and Pasabagi, home to perhaps Cappadocia's most impressve rock formations. We also enjoy a brief pottery workshop in a cave before returning to our hotel for the evening.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Drive to Pamukkale
Cappadocia - Pamukkale. Today we have a long drive (7 - 8 hours) westwards to Pamukkale. Stock up on snacks and watch the world pass by on a scenic drive. Reaching Pamukkale, dinner is included.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Pamukkale & Hierapolis
Pamukkale - Izmir. Visit the unique cotton fortress of Pamukkale, with its white lime cascades formed by mineral springs, and the ruins of the Roman health spa of Hierapolis. After our visit to this Turkish highlight, we journey to Izmir.
Overnight: Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Ephesus & House of the Virgin Mary
Experience a fascinating journey through history as we embark on a tour of the world-renowned ruins of Ephesus today. This ancient city served as a pivotal cultural hub in the past and continues to captivate visitors today. Walk alongside 2,000 year-old marble streets, marvel at the grandeur of an ancient theatre, explore the breathtaking Library of Celsus and the impressive gymnasium, and be awe-inspired by the remarkable Hadrian's Temple.
Our next stop is the House of the Virgin Mary, an important Catholic shrine believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years, accompanied by Saint John. We also visit a regional rug production center today and you can join an optional visit to Sirince, a charming village with incredible views of the surrounding area.
Overnight: Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Pergamum & ancient Troy
Izmir - Pergamum - Troy - Canakkale. Say goodbye to Izmir as we visit the ruined city of Pergamum and the historic and fabled town of Troy, complete with a replica wooden horse! As well as featuring in a well-known Greek legend, the city of Troy is known for its archaeological wonders, with many ancient towns and cities having been built and rebuilt on top of each other. After our visit, we travel to Canakkale for the night.
Overnight: Canakkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Gallipoli memorials & Istanbul
Our day begins with exploration of the Gallipoli Peninsula. This area is known for the many bloody battles fought here during the First World War. We visit many of these sites and the surrounding war memorials, including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair.
We then complete our journey back to Istanbul. There's an included visit to the iconic Grand Bazaar for any last minute shopping, and we enjoy a farewell group dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast, Dinner
Goodbye!
Your Turkish adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before an included transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 4 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Melas Hotel Istanbul, Istanbul
A 5-star hotel located in the heart of Istanbul and offering sweeping city views, Melas Hotel is a great place in which to begin a Turkish adventure. Amenities at the hotel include a fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, indoor pool and terrace, whilst dining is offered at the onsite restaurant serving up an array of Mediterranean cuisine, and a steakhouse! Air-conditioned guest rooms come equipped with flat screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities, minibar and ensuite bathrooms.
Park Inn by Radisson Ankara Cankaya, Ankara
Discover modern comfort and exceptional hospitality at Park Inn by Radisson Ankara. Located in the heart of the vibrant capital city, the hotel offers contemporary accommodations for travellers. Relax in stylish rooms featuring modern amenities and a welcoming ambiance. Indulge your taste buds at the on-site restaurant, where a diverse menu caters to various palates. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available and other amenities include an indoor pool, fitness centre and tranquil garden.
Perissia Hotel, Cappadocia
Perissia Hotel & Convention Centre is a luxurious hotel located in Urgup, Cappadocia. The hotel offers spacious and elegantly designed rooms, equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscapes from their rooms. The hotel features a variety of dining options, including restaurants serving Turkish and international cuisine, as well as a bar and a cafe. Other facilities include a spa, fitness center, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
Adempira Termal & Spa Hotel, Pamukkale
Adempira Termal & Spa Hotel is ideally located just a short drive from the Pamukkale Travertines surrounded by mountains. Guest rooms are modern and comfortable equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning and satellite tv channels. There is a restaurant and bar onsite offering Turkish and international cuisine. The hotel features a Thermal Pool, Outdoor Swimming Pool, 2 Red Thermal Pools, Turkish bath and sauna as well as an array of luxurious spa treatments to indulge in after a day of sightseeing.
Best Western Konak Hotel, Izmir
Nestled in the heart of Izmir, Turkey, the Best Western Konak Hotel welcomes leisure travellers to an ideal retreat. With a prime location near historic sites and cultural attractions, this hotel offers stylish accommodations where modern comfort meets warm hospitality. Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms and savour Turkish cuisine at the on-site restaurant. The strategic setting allows easy access to Izmir's landmarks and the scenic waterfront, making the Best Western Konak Hotel the perfect base for a memorable leisure experience in this vibrant coastal city.
Iris Hotel, Canakkale
Located between Canakkale and Troy on the coast, the Iris is a modern, low rise hotel with spacious, comfortable rooms and a good size swimming pool. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi connection and has an enviable beach front location. You can enjoy a delicious meal at the outdoor restaurant with views across the ocean.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 4 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
At a Glance
