Embark on a spiritual journey through Turkey, beginning in Istanbul, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Travel to Canakkale and visit the historic battlegrounds of Gallipoli. Explore the legendary city of Troy and the ancient city of Pergamum. Continue to Kusadasi to visit Ephesus and the charming village of Sirince. Journey to Akhisor, a town with Christian significance, and then visit Pamukkale, Hierapolis, and Laodicea. Explore Philadelphia and Sardis before concluding your pilgrimage back in Istanbul.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Istanbul
Saturday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Overnight: Istanbul
Tour of Istanbul
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Gallipoli & ANZAC Cove
Istanbul - Canakkale. Today, you'll embark on a journey to Gallipoli, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the legendary landmarks of ANZAC Cove, Nek, Conk Bair, Lone Pine, and the 57th Regiment Memorial.
Afterwards, you'll proceed to cross the Dardanelles, where Asia and Europe meet. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Canakkale, where you can enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Canakkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Legendary Troy
Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Kusadasi/Izmir. Following breakfast, we'll head for the legendary city of Troy, where the renowned Trojan War unfolded. You'll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating archaeological site, delving into its rich history.
Continuing on, we'll cross the picturesque Ida mountain range and arrive in Pergamum. Here, you'll visit the ancient Acropolis. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Kusadasi, where you can relax and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Ancient Ephesus & Sirince
Kusadasi/Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Kusadasi/Izmir. Today, a brief drive will take you to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent library, theater, and temples. The day's journey also includes a chance to discover the local craftsmanship of hand-made carpets and leather products.
Continuing on, you'll reach the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of Turkey's most beautiful villages. While in Sirince, you can shop unique local crafts and taste the delightful wines produced in the village. We'll end the night in Kusadasi.
Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Ancient Foundations of Thyteria
Kusadasi/Izmir - Smirne - Thyateria - Kusadasi/Izmir. Delve into the Christian history of Akhisor, a modern town built upon the ancient foundations of Thyateira, which holds significance as one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse where early Christianity rapidly spread.
You'll spend some time exploring the historical and spiritual significance of this site before returning to Kusadasi for the night.
Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Hierapolis & Laodicea
Kusadasi/Izmir - Pamukkale - Hierapolis - Laodicea - Pamukkale. Set off in the morning for a picturesque drive to Pamukkale, passing through the fertile Meander plain, known for its natural beauty.
Your first stop is the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore its fascinating ruins and the captivating terraces.
In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to Laodicea, an ancient city located just seven kilometers from Pamukkale. Laodicea holds historical significance as one of the seven churches of Asia Minor, providing insights into early Christianity.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Ancient Cities & Back to Istanbul
Pamukkale - Philadelphia - Sardis - Istanbul. Begin your day with a drive to Philadelphia, one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse, where you can explore its historical and religious significance mentioned in Revelation (3: 7-13).
Your journey continues to the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lydia, Sardis, referred to in the New Testament (Rev 2; 18-29). During your visit to Sardis, you will encounter a Roman-era synagogue, a remarkably well-preserved gymnasium, and various other ancient ruins mentioned in Revelation (3: - 6).
Afterwards, head to Izmir airport for your included flight back to Istanbul.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Goodbye
Sunday. Today marks the end of your adventure. Departure transfer to your onward flight is included.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 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.
Extra Prices
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.
DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Piyalepasa, Istanbul
This impressive 5-star hotel is located in the upmarket Beyoglu district of Istanbul and a free shuttle is provided to the city centre, home to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sofia, amongst other attractions. Rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton are elegant and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and a flatscreen TV. Some rooms feature a balcony. There is free Wi-Fi at the property and amenities include an indoor pool with whirlpool, fitness centre and sun terrace. There are two onsite restaurants and a daily breakfast buffet.
Kolin Hotel, Canakkale
Looking out across the Dardanelles, the modern and bright Kolin Hotel offers well appointed rooms with hard wood flooring and tasteful decor. The hotel also boasts a luxury spa, wellness centre and a number of mouth watering restaurants all set within perfectly manicured lawns. Sipping a sundowner on the roof bar, overlooking the beautiful strait, is the perfect way to end the day. The hotel is located on the water’s edge a short drive from the town centre with beautiful views out to sea.
Charisma Hotel, Kusadasi
The Charisma is a modern and elegant hotel with spacious rooms. The rooms are equipped with jacuzzi, LCD screen television, split air conditioning, mini-bar, electronic safe box, hairdryer and free internet connection. Towering over the Aegean Sea's outstanding view, the Hotel is just 15 minutes by walk from Kuşadası's shopping and entertainment area.
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.
At a Glance
