Following the famed Aegean coastline, we discover Ottoman Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, ancient Ephesus and Pamukkale, finishing in coastal Marmaris - gateway to the Greek Islands. This 7 day holiday from Istanbul to the Mediterranean sea will give you an insight into the fascinating history, culture and landscapes of western Turkey.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Istanbul
Saturday. Arrive in vibrant Istanbul and transfer to your hotel, where our adventure begins! Spend your afternoon exploring this captivating city on foot, its enchanting streets are lined with a variety of charming restaurants and cozy cafes waiting to be discovered. With the rest of the day at your leisure, immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture, savour local cuisine, and perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll or a refreshing drink at a local bar. At 8pm, join us for a welcome meeting where you'll meet your tour guide and fellow travelers. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect and share your excitement for the journey ahead.
Overnight: Istanbul
The Old City
Istanbul. This morning, we embark on an enthralling journey through Istanbul's captivating Old City, the once-thriving center of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
Our adventure begins at the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque, a masterpiece renowned for its shimmering blue Iznik tiles and majestic six minarets that pierce the sky.
From there, we’ll stroll through the ancient Hippodrome, where chariot races once thrilled thousands. Next, we’ll marvel at the exterior of the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel originally built as a grand basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Its imposing presence has transformed through the ages, from a church to a mosque and now a museum.
Finally, we’ll immerse ourselves in the opulence of the Topkapi Palace, where we’ll explore the lavish courtyards and fascinating museums that showcase the grandeur of the Ottoman sultans.
Please Note: Starting January 2024, the lower floor of Hagia Sophia will be exclusively open to Muslims for prayer, while the upper floor galleries will be dedicated to touristic purposes with a newly imposed entrance fee. If you wish to explore the interior, you may have the opportunity during your free time in Istanbul.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Gallipoli
Istanbul – Gallipoli. Today, we delve into the poignant history of the Gallipoli battlefields, starting with a visit to the iconic ANZAC Cove. Our guided tour will lead us through a landscape where every corner tells a story of bravery and sacrifice. We’ll pay our respects at the Lone Pine Memorial and Cemetery, where countless Australian soldiers are commemorated, and at the Chunuk Bair Memorial and Cemetery, which honors the valiant efforts of New Zealand troops. We’ll also explore the Nek and Johnston’s Jolly, as well as the enduring remnants of fortified trenches, still etched into the scrubland after all these years. Each site offers a moving glimpse into the harrowing yet heroic past of this historic region.
Overnight: Canakkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Troy and Kusadasi/Izmir
Gallipoli - Kusadasi/Izmir. Step back in time as we uncover the legendary ruins of Troy and Pergamum. Our journey begins at the ancient city of Troy, a site that inspired Homer's Iliad and the epic film Troy.
We’ll explore its storied ruins, including the iconic Trojan Horse, dating back to 3000 BC. Continuing our adventure, we’ll head to the impressive ruins of Pergamum, where we’ll marvel at its grand temples, renowned library, and advanced medical facilities that once made it a pinnacle of cultural and political influence.
Before reaching our destination in either Kusadasi or Izmir, we’ll make a stop at a local carpet emporium to admire some of the finest carpets in the world, a testament to Turkey's rich textile tradition.
Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Ancient Ephesus
Today, we embark on an exhilarating exploration of ancient Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. As we stroll through this magnificent site, you’ll be awestruck by the grandeur of the Great Theater, the bustling Curetes Way, and the imposing Temple of Serapis. Don’t miss the stunning Library of Celsus, a testament to the city’s scholarly prowess. Wander through the ancient streets to uncover intriguing remnants such as the public toilets and the historic brothel, offering a unique glimpse into Roman daily life.
Following our Ephesus adventure, we’ll delve into Turkey’s rich carpet weaving tradition with a fascinating demonstration showcasing the intricate artistry involved. Our journey concludes in the charming Greek village of Sirince, nestled on a mountainside within a picturesque valley of vineyards and orchards, where you can soak up the serene atmosphere and local culture.
Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
Pamukkale Terraces
As we meander through the sweeping plains and cotton farms, we arrive at the breathtaking ruins of Roman Hierapolis and the famous hot springs of Pamukkale. Behold this surreal landscape, sculpted over millennia by natural forces and frequent earthquakes. Marvel at the gleaming travertine terraces, formed by the cascading calcium-rich waters that have created dazzling shelves and pools of pristine white. The crystalline marble and shimmering stalactites catch the sunlight in a magical display.
You’ll have the opportunity to paddle through the terraces, feeling the warm, mineral-rich waters beneath your feet. Alternatively, you can luxuriate in the Thermal Bath House, where you can relax among submerged fragments of ancient marble columns (at an additional cost). Afterward, we’ll visit a local leather fashion house, where you can explore exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs.
Overnight: Marmaris | Breakfast, Dinner
Marmaris
Friday. Marmaris. Our tour concludes after breakfast, but the adventure doesn’t have to end there. Extend your stay with a blissful three nights at the beach, where you can unwind by the pool or bask in the sun on the sandy shores. For an extra touch of excitement, why not embark on a day trip to the enchanting Greek Island of Rhodes? Just an hour away by catamaran, Rhodes offers stunning landscapes and rich history, making it the perfect addition to your holiday.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All departure dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own 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.
Kaya Izmir Thermal & Convention, Kusadasi
Kaya Hotel in Izmir's Balçova District boasts the region's largest thermal and spa facilities, both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a well-equipped gym. Air-conditioned guest rooms at Kaya Izmir Thermal & Spa feature contemporary furnishings, flat-screen satellite TV, a seating area, and a work desk. The hotel's restaurant offers a variety of Turkish and international dishes, and guests can also enjoy attentive room service. The extensive spa facilities include a hot tub, traditional Turkish bath, sauna, and massage services, providing a range of facial and body treatments, with free Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel.
Motto Premium Hotel, Marmaris
Motto Premium Hotel offers an outdoor pool, a Turkish bath, and free WiFi. It features air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, balconies, private bathrooms, and safety deposit boxes, as well as spacious suites. The à la carte restaurants serve world and local cuisines, and guests can enjoy alcoholic drinks and beverages at the bar. The pool area is perfect for sunbathing and relaxation, with a 24/7 front desk available. The Greek island of Rhodes is only a 45-minute ferry ride from Marmaris city center, and Dalaman Airport is less than 100 km away.
We really enjoyed the tour, met some lovely people, and our tour guide Mete was exceptional, very knowledgeable. The tour content was very interesting. Ephesus was our favorite.
We were sad to leave the tour and our new friends who were continuing on to Cappadocia and back to Istanbul.
Now enjoying Marmaris before leaving for Rhodes.”
Mete was knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging. Truly enjoyed the tour and would gladly recommend to all. ”
We couldn’t imagine Turkey without Recep! His experience and education gave us a foundation for every site we visited and brought the history of Turkey alive with his stories. Each morning on the bus Recep would explain the history of the site we were visiting and general information about life in Turkey. He generously shared his own family stories, which personalized the information and the history of this beautiful country. His method allowed him to give more detail as we toured the site and answer our questions. He also ensured that we had free time in the evenings to explore and was always willing to suggest somewhere we could go for dinner or a walk. Recep was extremely courteous, professional and helpful. The information he provided during our tour made the rest of our time in Turkey more enjoyable and this trip wouldn’t have been the same without him as our guide. Recep is also extremely well organized and prepared for every step of the journey. We were always on time and the first to arrive at each site. His polite and courteous manner was demonstrated by the positive relationships he had almost everywhere we stopped. Everyone seemed happy to see him arrive and looked as though they would have liked to tag along. From restaurants to short coffee/toilet breaks on the road, Recep knows the best place to stop. If we had known about him before I would have considered a private tour. Thank you for having such wonderful staff!!”
The tour was excellent and we enjoyed it very much. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and imparted interesting information and managed the group, tour timings and logistics very well. The hotels were very good, have nothing negative to comment on. All good.”
Morning Cherylyn
I have just returned from holidays overseas I would like to thank you for all that you did to make this a memorable experience.
The On The Go tour was beyond my imagination The guide was a wealth of knowledge (Fayhid) was a true supporter and true believer in his country Each day group (which was only 12 of us) kept thinking could the accommodation get any better, it was 5 star and above all expectations Marmaras was a great place to end the tour, the days were full of sunshine and water (cold as anything) Sunshine every day and 25 - 26 degrease Was a good time to travel as the tourist season had only just started so numbers were down as were the prices The whole atmosphere of the holiday was something that will never be forgotten We went from 2000 BC to modern day in a week long history lesson.
Once again I thank you and would recommend this tour to anybody. ”
Burhan is a wonderful person & guide. His knowledge of the sites we visited & explanations were great. I really enjoyed my tour around Turkey. Thank you. ”
Our guide & driver were excellent. ”
Erkan is the best guide I have ever had on a tour, so informative + knowledgeable, passionate, so nice and caring. I couldn't fault him at all. Wish i could take him home with me! ”
Our tour guide was excellent. Brilliant interpersonal skills & knowledge of history. He made the holiday completely stress free. Bus very comfortable. ”
Erkan's knowledge is exceptional and he communicated this knowledge in an entertaining and informative way. Thank you Erkan. ”
At a Glance
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We really enjoyed the tour, met some lovely people, and our tour guide Mete was exceptional, very knowledgeable. The tour content was very interesting. Ephesus was our favorite.
We were sad to leave the tour and our new friends who were continuing on to Cappadocia and back to Istanbul.
Now enjoying Marmaris before leaving for Rhodes.”