Adventure tour of Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Cappadocia
Highlights
Istanbul, Gallipoli battlefields & memorials, Troy, Pergamum Acropolis, Ancient Greek & Roman ruins at Ephesus & Hieropolis, Pamukkale calcium travertines, Sultanhani Caravansary, Cappadocia underground churches & fairy chimneys
Itinerary
Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the centre of Istanbul for the start of your trip. The rest of your day is free to explore this vibrant city.
OVERNIGHT:
Istanbul hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
Single room supplement (TUSGAA)
Extra day in Istanbul - pre-tour
Following breakfast, embark on a fully guided tour of Istanbul, the captivating city that bridges two continents. Your morning programme features unrivalled historical marvels, including the magnificent Blue Mosque, the iconic Hagia Sophia, the expansive Topkapi Palace (featuring Hagia Irene and the Harem), and the ancient Hippodrome.
In the afternoon, you may choose to join an optional half-day Bosphorus cruise, sailing the spectacular strait that divides Europe and Asia.
OVERNIGHT:
Istanbul hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
We depart Istanbul this morning for the drive to Gallopoli where we will receive a fully guided tour of this World War I battlefield site. Although home to some of the fiercest fighting during the War today the site is full of poignant memorials set against a subdued wooded landscape. Our tour will include the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair memorials, ANZAC Cove, Johnston Jolly as well as The Nek and Gallipoli Museum. There will also be chance to see the original trenches and tunnels used during the war before we head to our hotel in Canakkale.
OVERNIGHT:
Canakkale hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
2026 Itinerary:
Departing from Çanakkale, our journey takes us to the legendary ruins of Troy. Here, you will explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and the acclaimed Troy Museum. We then continue to the charming village of Behramkale. Characterised by its traditional stone houses and winding streets, it offers a fascinating window into authentic Turkish village life. Enjoy some free time to wander, admire the spectacular scenery, and perhaps relax with a traditional Turkish tea or coffee at a local café before we travel south to Kuşadası.
2027 & 2028 Itinerary:
Departing from Çanakkale, our journey takes us to the legendary ruins of Troy to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and the acclaimed Troy Museum. Our route then leads to Bergama, where we visit the magnificent Acropolis of Pergamon. Once one of the most significant cultural and political centres of the ancient world, its impressive temples and grand library remain a spectacular sight. From Bergama, we continue our journey south to Kuşadası.
OVERNIGHT:
Kusadasi hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Step back in time today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the atmospheric ruins of the Temple of Artemis. Wander through the remarkably preserved ancient city and its grand theatre before continuing to the Ephesus Archaeology Museum, home to a fascinating collection of regional artefacts. Later, discover Turkey's rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship at a local carpet village, where you will learn the intricate techniques of hand-weaving and the secrets behind what makes these textiles so valuable.
OVERNIGHT:
Kusadasi hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
This morning, we will appreciate a showcase of beautifully handcrafted local leather goods before travelling to Pamukkale. Here, you will discover the magnificent white calcium terraces, famously known as the Travertines, alongside a tour of the ancient city of Hierapolis. For a truly unique experience, take a relaxing dip amongst submerged marble columns in the thermal hot springs, celebrated since Roman times for their therapeutic properties.
OVERNIGHT:
Pamukkale hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Today our journey takes us along the ancient Silk Road. Along the way, we will stop to explore the impressive Sultanhani Caravanserai and the revered Mevlana Museum in Konya. This evening, ensure you do not miss the optional traditional Turkish folklore event for a memorable night of local culture.
OVERNIGHT:
Cappadocia hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Prepare to be captivated by the surreal, otherworldly terrain of Cappadocia. Today is dedicated to exploring this unique lunar-like landscape, starting with the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open Air Museum. Here, you will discover incredible rock-cut churches adorned with ancient, beautifully preserved Byzantine frescoes. Next, wander among the iconic fairy chimneys, marvelling at the towering, wind-sculpted rock formations that define the region. The adventure continues as we descend into one of Cappadocia's fascinating underground cities. You will navigate the intricate, multi-level network of tunnels and chambers, learning how early inhabitants carved these immense subterranean sanctuaries to hide from passing invaders.
OVERNIGHT:
Cappadocia hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
We leave early this morning for the drive to Ankara, Turkey's modern day capital city. We visit Anitkabir - mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk before returning to Istanbul by road. This is a long day's drive, and we can arrange an upgrade to an internal flight from Kayseri in Cappadocia if you prefer (please ask for current times & prices).
OVERNIGHT:
Istanbul hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Kayseri to Istanbul Flight Upgrade (inc. transfers)
Your time is free today for some last minute sightseeing and shopping in Istanbul before we transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Optional tours are available locally to see more of Istanbul, and we can also add extra nights in the Istanbul hotel if you'd like to spend more time exploring the city.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Extra day in Istanbul - post-tour
included with
All accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
All transport and transfers
24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
Entrance fees for sights mentioned in itinerary
Services of a local tour leader throughout
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Tipping kitty
excluded by
International flights (available on request)
Visa fees
Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips for guide & driver
Any other items not mentioned above
Extras /
Upgrades
Single Room Supplement
This option guarantees you a single room in hotels throughout the tour. If you are a single traveller who would like to share, let us know and we will see if we can pair you up.
Extra night pre-tour - Price from £30.00
This option adds an extra night to the start of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability at the time of booking). Your airport arrival transfer is still included.
Extra night post-tour - Price from £30.00
This option adds an extra night to the end of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability at the time of booking). Your airport departure transfer is still included
Detailed Description
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through the heart of Turkey with a meticulously crafted itinerary that seamlessly blends ancient cities, stunning coastlines, historical landmarks, and modern Turkish culture. Starting and ending in Istanbul, this adventure offers travellers a comprehensive and diverse exploration of this remarkable country.
The tour commences in Istanbul, a dynamic metropolis where the past and present converge in harmony. Travelers experience the city's cosmopolitan vibrancy alongside its ancient wonders, providing a perfect introduction to Turkey's rich heritage.
The journey then takes a poignant turn as travelers visit the battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli, including the hallowed ground of ANZAC Cove, paying tribute to the historical significance of World War II.
As the tour heads south along the Mediterranean coast, travelers encounter Turkey's ancient treasures. Stops at the legendary sites of Troy, the impressive Pergamum, and the exceptionally well-preserved ruins of Ephesus offer insights into the country's illustrious past.
Arriving in the coastal town of Kusadasi, guests are treated to the charm of Turkish seaside life before embarking on an inland adventure. The surreal calcium travertines at Pamukkale beckon, providing a unique opportunity for a rejuvenating dip in the spa waters. The historic ruins of Hieropolis also await exploration.
Continuing the journey, travelers follow the ancient Spice Route deeper into central Turkey, arriving in Konya, where they delve into the art of Sufi dancing and celebrate the poetry of Rumi, a profound cultural experience.
The tour then unfolds into the captivating landscape of Cappadocia, with a stop at the Sultanhani Caravanserai offering a glimpse into the past. In Cappadocia, guests are enchanted by the mesmerizing rock formations, cave churches, underground cities, and the famous 'fairy chimneys,' which define the region's unique charm.
The tour concludes with a return to Istanbul, with the option for a flight back to the city. Along the way, travelers stop in Ankara, the modern-day capital, where they can explore the city's contemporary attractions.
Throughout the journey, accommodations are carefully selected, offering a mix of 4-star and boutique hotels, ensuring comfort and a taste of local charm. For those seeking more time to explore Istanbul's wonders, additional days can be added at the beginning or end of the tour, providing a comprehensive experience of this magnificent city.
Many of our group itineraries can be booked as private departures, offering the flexibility to customise your accommodation or work with our sales team to create a completely tailor-made journey. Contact us for details
