From Ottoman Istanbul, the battlefields of Gallipoli, Roman ruins, the Aegean Coast and the stunning mineral pools of Pamukkale, to the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and felucca sailing in Egypt. Take in the best of Egypt and Turkey in 16 days.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
The Old City
Guided tour of the city that spans Europe and Asia. Tour the Hippodrome area, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Underground Cistern.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Troy and Coastal Kusadasi
Gallipoli – Kusadasi. Heading south, we enjoy a guided tour of Homer’s Troy, famed for the Trojan wooden horse and fabled Helen. Continuing to the Roman acropolis of Pergamum - the cultural and political capital of its time, we tour the impressive temple ruins, library and medical facilities. Afterwards we visit a local leather emporium for a spot of shopping, en route to coastal Kusadasi. Enjoy the hotel facilities.
Overnight: Kusadasi | Breakfast
Legendary Ephesus
Today, we explore legendary Ephesus and see the ruins of the great Temple of Artemis - one of the Seven Ancient Wonders. Under the Romans, Ephesus, was a vast city with a population upwards of 250,000 and was a extremely important city in the Roman empire. Make sure you stroll the streets of this ruined city, taking stops at some of the highlights such as the Libraby of Celcus, the gymnasium of Vedius and the great theatre. Afterward, we stop by a local carpet weaving house to witness a demonstration of how these beautiful rugs are made and how centuries old traditions have been passed down to modern day carpet weavers.
Overnight: Kusadasi | Breakfast
Pamukkale Travertines
Kusadasi - Pamukkale. Tour the ancient town of Hierapolis and the magnificent white calcium terraces of Pamukkale. You can walk barefoot along the terraces allowing the mineral rich waters to wash over your feet or opt for a dip in the hot springs renowned for their therapeutic powers since roman times. Continue to our hotel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast
Goodbye Turkey, Hello Egypt
Friday. Pamukkale - Istanbul - Cairo. After breakfast and hotel check out we make our way to Denizli airport for our onward flight to Istanbul arriving at approx 8:50am where our representative will be waiting to meet you.
You need to independently book your flight from Istanbul to Cairo, as it is not included in the cost of this tour. Please only book a flight departing Istanbul later than 1pm. Turkish Airlines and Egyptair offer flights between Istanbul and Cairo, check the THY or Egyptair websites for more details.
Upon arrival at Cairo Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. At 7pm meet your Egyptian guide at the Welcome Meeting.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Pyramids of Giza & Saqqara
This morning we visit Egypt's most iconic site - the awe-inspiring pyramids and huge Sphinx at the Giza Plateau. You can also opt to enter Chephren or Mycerinus pyramids, depending upon which is open on the day. After, we visit a government supervised papyrus emporium before traveling onto the necropolis of Saqqara - a myriad of ancient tombs and temples. the highlight is Zhoser’s step pyramid - constructed by Imhotep, the pharaoh’s chief architect in 2700 BC!
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
The Grand Egyptian Museum
Cairo - Aswan. This morning we visit the new Grand Egyptian Museum for an informative guided tour. A mind-boggling array of relics and antiquities are housed in this incredible 490,000 sq.m complex, including treasures of King Tutankhamun. After our tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum we head over to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization to see the remarkably well preserved mummies of ancient Egyptian kings and queens which are now on display in the Royal Mummies' Hall. Returning to our hotel there's time to relax by the pool and have some dinner before we board the overnight train to Aswan this evening.
Please Note: the Grand Egyptian Museum is scheduled to open in late 2024, though an official opening date has yet to be released. If travelling prior to the opening of the new facility we'll visit the Egyptian Museum instead.
Overnight: Sleeper train | Breakfast
Temple of Philae
Arrive Aswan and check into our hotel. Today, we visit the High Dam and travel by boat to the Temple of Philae and a perfume oil emporium. Then there is free time to shop in the colorful souqs or sit back and watch an amazing sunset.
Overnight: Aswan | Breakfast
Felucca sailing
Aswan - Nile felucca cruise. Optional early morning drive to Abu Simbel, the famous the rock-cut temple of King Ramses II. This afternoon, we board our Nile felucca for a 2 night cruise downstream. Relax, top up your tan and chat with new friends as the felucca gently plies its route. A stop will also be made at the Temple of Kom Ombo on day 12. If sailing by felucca is not your style, consider upgrading to a 5 star luxury Nile Cruise with our Nile Cruise Upgrade.
Overnight: Felucca Cruise | Breakfast x 2, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 2
Valley of the Kings
Luxor - Cairo. Today we tour West Bank, visiting the Colossi of Memnon, Valleys of the Kings and the colonnaded Temple of Hatshepsut. After time for lunch, we explore the giant Temple of Karnak - a spectacular complex of sanctuaries, pylons, chapels, halls and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban gods and to the greater glory of Egypt’s Middle and New Kingdom rulers. Tonight we return to Cairo by sleeper train.
Overnight: Sleeper Train | Breakfast
Cairo - free time or Khan el Khalili Bazaar
Cairo. After arriving to Cairo this morning the day offers free time for you to relax, shop and explore. You may wish to join us on an optional visit Khan el-Khalili bazaar to pick up some last minute souvenirs.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Cairo
Sunday - Cairo. Hotel check out and included onward departure transfer to airport.
Breakfast
Flights
Please note: The flight from Istanbul to Cairo is not included in the cost of this tour. Turkish Airlines and Egyptair offer flights between Istanbul and Cairo, check their websites for more details.
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.
Read MoreExtra 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.
Kent Hotel, Istanbul
The charming Kent Hotel is a great example of contemporary design and a friendly atmosphere. Guest rooms are superbly equipped with modern facilities including Wi-Fi connectivity, state of the art technology and bright marbled bathrooms. Enjoying a delicious Turkish meal at the in house Calcedoine Restaurant after a hard days sightseeing is highly recommended. The hotel is also fantastically located within a 10-minute walk of the Grand Bazaar and Old Town in the Bayazit area in the European side of Istanbul.
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.
Ramada by Wyndham Hotel & Suites, Kusadasi
Set within beautifully landscaped gardens and boasting an incredible panoramic view of the Aegean Coast, the Ramada Hotel & Suites is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun by its large outdoor pool, or pamper yourself at the spa. Comfort is guaranteed in the spacious guest rooms, which are modern and well equipped. The hotel offers a choice of three bars, a buffet restaurant and an à la carte restaurant, serving tasty Italian cuisine. A variety of bars and restaurants can also be found within walking distance of the hotel, near Kusadasi's pretty marina.
Richmond Ephesus Resort Hotel, Kusadasi
With a beautiful sandy beach lining the shore between the hotel and the sea, the Richmond Ephesus Hotel is a perfect place to relax. Take a dip in one of the two pools or enjoy a delicious dinner and drink at one of the three restaurants. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with air conditioning throughout the hotel.
Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel, Pamukkale
Set in landscaped gardens, the Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel has an envious location in Pamukkale. Guest rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated and offer a wonderful level of comfort, ensuring a good night's sleep. The on site thermal spa offers guests the chance to relax, revitalise and enjoy what this region is most famous for. Breakfast can be eaten outside on the terrace while dinner is often taken by the shimmering water of the pool.
Holiday Inn Cairo Maadi, Cairo
Overlooking the Nile and offering distant views of the Great Pyramids of Giza, this Holiday Inn provides the perfect location for your stay in Cairo. Each guestroom features a balcony (not Nile View as standard) and is well-equipped with modern amenities including free WiFi. Evenings can be spent enjoying international or Egyptian cuisine and unwinding with a cocktail at one of the hotel’s bars. Thanks to the friendly hotel staff, you’ll soon feel at home. And with panoramic views of the city from the rooftop lounge and pool, there’s no better place to base yourself for exploring Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Steigenberger Hotel el Tahrir, Cairo
Ideally located in the heart of downtown Cairo, the Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir is right by the lively Tahrir Square. Guestrooms offer peace and quiet away from the high-energy of the city, with contemporary decor and sound-proofed windows overlooking views of Cairo. The wellness facilities are state-of-the-art, including a fitness centre, outdoor pool and sauna and massage rooms. Be sure to take advantage of the poolside bar and delicious hotel restaurant, or enjoy the option of 24-hour in-room dining.
Holiday Inn City Stars, Cairo
The Holiday Inn Cairo City Stars Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the modern and historic attractions of Egypt's capital. Rooms are spacious, offering a flatscreen TV and private bathroom. There are restaurants on site, including the rooftop garden that offers panoramic views of the city.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Cairo
Radisson Blu is in the Heliopolis area of Cairo, just 3 kms from Cairo International Airport. Providing spacious, well appointed guest rooms with amenities such as a daily newspaper and turndown service, the hotel is the perfect oasis for guests visiting the city. Its two restaurants, lobby lounge, and gourmet bakery offer a range of culinary choices. To top it all off, the hotel boasts a rooftop spa and pool with panoramic Cairo views.
Le Meridien Heliopolis, Cairo
Just a short drive from Cairo’s Old Town and international airport, the 5-star Le Meridien Heliopolis combines comfort with convenience. The guest rooms are spacious and equipped with air-conditioning, satellite television and a minibar, plus there’s complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Dining options include a choice of four on-site restaurants, serving Egyptian and international cuisine. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment and cocktails at The 51 Bar. During the warmer months hotel guests can take a dip in the outdoor pool or relax on a sun lounger on the terrace. There’s also a fitness centre and tennis courts for those who like to stay active whilst on holiday.
Tolip Hotel, Aswan
Set in manicured gardens, the Helnan Aswan is an elegant hotel with impressive views of the Nile. Guest rooms are spacious with modern interiors and located next to the beautiful pool. Wi-fi is available in the lobby and by the pool. There are also two restaurants and bars, a bowling alley, a swimming pool and a cinema. Why not relax by the pool before exploring the rest of Aswan.
Felucca Sailboat, Felucca Cruise
Feluccas are simple, traditional Egyptian sailboats that have plied the Nile since ancient times. Feluccas carry between 10 - 12 passengers comfortably. The boat’s deck is draped with soft colourful cushions that serve as your lounging area during the day and as your sleeping area at night. A support boat travels alongside your felucca and is on hand if you need to use the toilet. The support boat is also where your meals are prepared and eaten. You'll need to bring a sleeping bag/sheet (or hire for a nominal cost) and a towel with you. The crew, as well as being experienced sailors, are responsible for the preparation of the included meals.
Sonesta St. George Hotel, Luxor
An elegant and luxurious classical hotel, the Sonesta's sophistication will ensure you a comfortable stay. The hotel has a sweeping terrace with fantastic views of the Nile, a grand entrance of polished marble and handsomely appointed furnishings with exquisite detail and a beautiful health spa. All its rooms offer views of the city or the river, complemented by a wide range of restaurants and cafes. Just minutes away you will find the temples at Luxor and Karnak, home to two of ancient Egypt's most famed sanctuaries.
Steigenberger Nile Palace, Luxor
The Steigenburger Nile Palace is a grand hotel and stylishly furnished, with many rooms overlooking the Nile River. The hotel has a health club with massage rooms, sauna, steam room and fitness room, and a tennis court on the roof, not to mention a riverside pool. Its four restaurants offer a choice between Nubian, Lebanese, Italian, and Thai cuisine.
Prices & Dates
The Nile Cruise Upgrade version of this tour includes 3 nights on board a 5 star Nile Cruiser (en suite cabin) in place of the felucca. For full details, please refer to the 'Nile Cruise Upgrade Trip Notes' in the right hand column.
Read MoreExtra Prices
At a Glance
Tour Add-ons
Enhance your trip with these amazing added extras and add-ons
Egypt section: Visiting Egypt was an amazing experience. The tour was well designed and gave us a chance to visit all the awsome historical places. Medo knows the history of the different places, and from Egypt in general, and make it available to us in an easy way; he's an amazing guide. Even when we were struggling with the heat, he was able to engage us in the vast knowledge about the place we were visiting.
He certainly is a guide I would recommend to anybody visiting Egypt!
Shukran Medo!”
