Aegean Explorer - 8 Days

Kicking off in the powerhouse of the Ottoman empire, discover exciting Istanbul, embrace Gallipoli, impressive Roman ruins, the Aegean Coast and Pamukkale's beautiful cascading mineral pools.

Day 1: Istanbul
Saturday. Welcome to Turkey! Arrive Istanbul and transfer to hotel in Sultanahmet. Rest of day free. Overnight - Istanbul
Day 2: Istanbul
Istanbul. Guided tour of the city that spans Europe and Asia. Tour the Hippodrome area, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Underground Cistern and more. Overnight - Istanbul (B)
Aegean Explorer - 8 Days Go Guide : :Check out the go guide for details of the tour, info on visas, climate, money, what to bring and more!
The replica woodan Trojan Horse at Troy
Day 3: Gallipoli
Istanbul – Gallipoli. Our first destination is Gallipoli where we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the historical battlefields, taking in Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, Turkish memorials, trenches and of course – ANZAC Cove. Overnight - Gallipoli region (B, D)
Day 4: Troy & 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 ancient Pergamum, we tour the impressive temple ruins, library and medical facilities. En route to the coastal resort of Kusadasi, we visit a leather manufacturer. Overnight - Kusadasi (B, D)
Day 5: Kusadasi
Today, we embark upon a guided exploration of the Roman ruins of legendary Ephesus, once the capital of Asia Minor. We also visit a carpet manufacturing house. Overnight - Kusadasi (B, D)
A tour group posing at the white limestone terraces of Pammukale
Day 6: Pamukkale
Kusadasi – Pamukkale – Istanbul. Leaving Kusadasi, we drive east to Pamukkale - site of the stunning terraced mineral pools and Roman Hierapolis, where we can opt to bathe in the thermal waters. Bidding farewell to our guide, we return to Istanbul by comfortable overnight (public or private) bus. Should the long term rail upgrade of the line be complete our journey will be taken by overnight train - Pullman recliner seat. Overnight - Train (Pullman recliner seats) OR Bus (B)
Hagia Sofia and the Bosphorus in Istanbul
Day 7: Istanbul
Meeting our representative upon arrival to Istanbul, we transfer back to the hotel, then the rest of the day is yours to explore Istanbul. Consider a visit to the legendary, if cavernous Grand Bazaar. Just the ticket for souvenir, clothing and handbag purchases! Overnight - Istanbul
Day 8: Istanbul
Saturday. After breakfast tour ends and hotel check out at noon. (B)

Cruise the beautiful Med
Why not extend your time in stunning Turkey for a memorable 7 night gulet cruise. You will explore the various small islands, inlets and bays for sunbathing, swimming and relaxation.

Click here for more info on this beautiful Mediterranean cruise.

Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, whilst the Hagia Sofia is closed on Mondays. Please consider this when booking. Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Spice Market are both closed on Sundays.