ANZAC Day Gallipoli 2024. Starts: 16th April. Take in the highlights of Turkey and attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Gallipoli on this 11 day tour. Marvel at the spectacular landscape of Cappadocia and discover the remarkable Roman ruins of Ephesus and Pergamum. See Istanbul's iconic Blue Mosque and paddle in Pammukale's thermal pools. Visit legendary Troy and Gallipoli's WW1 battlefields, before commemorating the brave ANZACs on ANZAC Day in 2024.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Istanbul
Tue 16th April 2024. Welcome to Turkey and the start of a unforgettable ANZAC experience! Airport to hotel arrival transfer. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. If you are arriving to Istanbul early, we recommend joining our optional Backstreets Of Istanbul Tour taking place today. The tour commences at 9am. For further details of the excursion, please see our tour Trip Notes. This evening meet your guide and fellow travellers at a welcome meeting.
Overnight: Istanbul
Istanbul - Old City Tour
Today we set off on guided tour of the old city, taking in the stunning Iznik tiled Blue Mosque, historic Hippodrome area, 6th century Hagia Sofia (exterior only), ancient Underground Cistern, Topkapi Palace and more. This afternoon, we take a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus Strait. Look out for waterside palaces framed by a modern city skyline dotted with expansive domed mosques and towering minarets of traditional Ottoman style. Afterwards there's free time to independently explore. From here you can either stay and discover the old city by night or return with your guide to our hotel for a little rest and relaxation.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Cappadocia
Istanbul - Cappadocia. Today we depart Istanbul and begin our lengthy journey across the country towards Cappadocia. We'll make a number of stops on route. After arriving into Cappadocia this afternoon, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Cappadocia's Goreme Valley
Perhaps the jewel in Turkey’s crown, Cappadocia is an extraordinary national treasure. Gaze in awe at this unbelievable landscape with its cave dwellings and phallic ‘fairy chimneys’ landscape that are the stuff of fables. Whole troglodyte (hermit) villages, subterranean churches and fortresses have been hewn from the soft, porous, eerily eroded rock of Cappadocia. A guided tour of the region takes us to the World Heritage listed Goreme Valley where we’ll see stunning examples of rock-cut Byzantine churches, chapels and temples, and Zelve monastery with its jaw-dropping landscape of towering eroded rocks.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Konya's Whirling Dervish Museum
Cappadocia - Konya - Pamukkale. It's an early departure this morning as we head for Pamukkale. On the way we visit the 13th century Seljukian masterpiece of Sultanhan Caravanserai before arriving in Konya. In Konya we visit the Mevlana Museum also known as the Green Mausoleum which is the original lodge of the Mevlevi Whirling Dervishes. We then continue our drive to Pamukkale for our overnight stay.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Pamukkale & Ephesus
Pamukkale - Ephesus - Kusadasi. Famed for its unique cascades of natural mineral rich pools, Pammukale captures the heart of any traveller. Here we can paddle our feet in the warm water flowing over the terraces or take a relaxing dip in the Pamukkale Thermal Baths. Just beyond the thermal pools we make a stop at the Roman ruins of Hierapolis.
This afternoon we continue to the legendary Roman ruins of Ephesus. Easily the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean, Ephesus stood as a vast Roman city with a population nearing 250,000. Rumoured to have been founded in the 13th century BC, it became the Roman capital of Asia Minor and enjoyed prosperity thanks to commerce and visiting pilgrims who flocked for a glimpse of the magnificent Temple of Artemis - one of the Seven Ancient Wonders. Strong archeological remains can be seen at Ephesus including the Great Theatre (once capable of seating 25,000 spectators at one time), Curetes Way (one of the main thoroughfares) the Temple of Serapis, the elegant façades of the Temple of Hadrian and the awesome Library of Celsus - underlining its status as a centre point for Roman urban life. Off Curetes Way are ancient public toilets, a brothel, remains of fountains and various temples. We end our day at our hotel in Kusadasi.
Overnight: Kusadasi | Breakfast, Dinner
Roman Ruins of Pergamum
Kusadasi - Pergamum - Assos. This morning we drive north, stopping at the Roman ruins of Pergamum and its impressive hillside amphitheatre. We also visit the neighbouring Asclepion - a Roman precursor to modern-day hospitals - before continuing onto to Assos.
Overnight: Assos | Breakfast
Gallipoli - WW1 Battlefields
Today we explore ANZAC Cove and the many memorials dotted across the WW1 battlefields. Our guided tour takes in sights including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial and cemetery, Chunuk Bair Memorial and cemetery, the Nek, Johnston’s Jolly and the many fortified trenches still clearly visible amongst the scrub after all these years.
Overnight: Assos / Canakkale | Breakfast
Troy & ANZAC Eve
Assos – Troy - Kilitbahir - Gallipoli. After a morning at leisure we enjoy a short-guided tour of Troy. The legend of the lost city of Troy and Homer’s poetry was brought to life by its rediscovery in 1863. We then continue to the village of Kilitbahir, situated on the eastern shore of the Gallipoli peninsula and dominated by the fortress of the same name. After exploring Kilitbahir we stop in the town of Eceabat for dinner (at your own expense) before entering the Cove. Once we're in Anzac Cove you are free to visit the memorials and trenches in the area before taking our places among the many at the Dawn Service site for the atmosphere-charged ANZAC Eve vigil.
Overnight: Dawn Service site (ANZAC Cove) | Breakfast
ANZAC Day - Gallipoli 2024
Gallipoli - Istanbul. Today, the 25th April is the reason we came to Turkey and Gallipoli. Dawn and first light signals the commencement of the annual Dawn Service, attended by Australian, New Zealand and other foreign dignitaries, military personnel and a strong following of regular Australian and New Zealand folk. The poignant and emotive service commemorating this important and historical date gives us time to reflect. Lest we forget.
The service lasts for an hour and public wreath laying at the ANZAC Memorial site is possible afterwards. Later this morning Australians have the opportunity to pay their respects at the Lone Pine Memorial Service, while New Zealanders can attend the service at Chunuk Bair. After the Chunuk Bair service we anticipate an early afternoon departure time from Gallipoli, for our return journey to Istanbul. Please note: the 2024 national memorial services at Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair are subject to confirmation.
Overnight: Istanbul
Istanbul
Fri 26th April 2024. You tour ends after breakfast and hotel check out. We hope you have had a wonderful holiday in Turkey and a memorable ANZAC Day 2024 experience.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 4 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.
Golden Tulip Istanbul Bayrampasa, Istanbul
Golden Tulip Istanbul Bayrampasa is a modern 5 star hotel, with scenic views of Istanbul and the Marmara Sea. Comfort is guaranteed in the spacious guest rooms, which benefit from large windows and free high speed WiFi. These well-appointed rooms also offer an en suite with rain-fall walk-in shower, hair dryer, LCD TV, minibar, in-room safe and complimentary coffee & tea making facilities. Guests can enjoy tasty Turkish and international cuisine at hotel's restaurant and bar which is open from early morning to late night. The property also features an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre and spa with a Turkish Bath and sauna - perfect for some R&R after a busy day of sightseeing in the city! This luxurious hotel is located in Bayrampasa, a peaceful suburb of Istanbul, which is a short 6-minute walk from Topcular metro station, offering easy access to the rest of the city.
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.
Grand Hotel Halic, Istanbul
Conveniently located in the central Beyoglu district of Istanbul, the modern Grand Hotel Halic is within walking distance of popular sites such as Taksim Square and the Galata Tower. Guest rooms are well-appointed with a seating area and modern amenities including complimentary Wi-Fi and satellite TV. Delicious Turkish mezes can be enjoyed at the Adali Restaurant on the top floor, with fabulous views across the famous Golden Horn of Istanbul, while Raki aniseed spirit can be sampled in the bar with billiards, while listening to live music. The hotel also benefits from an indoor swimming pool and spa, with a traditional hammam, dry sauna and massage facilities. Public transportation is within easy reach of the hotel with the Tunel Tram Stop on bustling Istiklal Street just 5 minutes’ walk away and Beyoglu Funicular Station 100 yards away.
Crowne Plaza Nevsehir, Cappadocia
Situated only 15 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of Goreme, this modern hotel boasts an excellent location in Cappadocia. Its guestrooms are located in quiet zones to ensure you have a restful sleep and offer modern amenities including free WiFi so you can stay connected to friends and family back home. Guests can unwind in the indoor pool or book a revitalizing treatment at the onsite spa centre. A rich breakfast is served in the Gurme Restaurant, then for dinner head to the a la carte Manzara Roof Restaurant on the top floor for some delicious international cuisine.
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.
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.
Eden Garden, Assos
The Eden Gardens hotel is a wonderful beachfront hotel located near to the historical town of Assos, surrounded by forest. Guest rooms are contemporary offering private bathrooms, satellite tv channels and a balcony with a sea or garden view. There is a restaurant onsite that serves local Turkish dishes using fresh local ingredients. The property also features a swimming pool, private beach, fitness centre and spa - the perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Parion Hotel, Canakkale
The Parion is an elegant property situated in the heart of Canakkale on the southern coast of the Dardanelles in Turkey. The hotel features 162 spacious guest rooms en suite facilities, air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TV and a minibar. Those looking for a bite to eat can check out the hotel restaurant, which serves a tasty breakfast buffet and offers an a la carte menu at lunch and dinner. There is also a hotel bar and room service is available.
Murat was a fabulous tour guide - the right mix of detailed information also mixed with personal and cultural information. He was very organised, extremely pleasant to deal with - nothing was ever a problem. He went above and beyond many times, serving us meals at some very bus restaurants to help out.
The ancient sites were incredible - my only complaint was that I could not stay longer!
Some of the hotels were not very comfortable but I think this being a very busy time with the Anzac Centenary there was a shortage of accommodation of this standard.”
Yesterday I received two hoodies regarding the celebration of the above mentioned Tour.
I wish to thank you for your follow up of these items. On the tour our bus only had S, M, and a few L, which only fitted a few people. Disappointing at the time.
Having received your correspondence previously regarding the tour (which I thought was excellent) I will now be shouting your praises as to the fact that your company followed through completing our experience of our holiday.
And leaving us with a wonderful memento of our trip.
Again many thanks and every success with your Tours of Turkey.
Kind regards,
Robyn Harris
Mt. Waverley Vic. 3149”
Thought the entire tour was excellent. Metin was a wonderful tour leader, his knowledge on history and the areas visited was great. Metin showed a friendly nature, care for each one on the tour, his answers to questions were complete and helpful. Metin has a good sense of humour enjoyed by all on tour. I thought Metin was one outstanding tour leader. Our coach driver was also friendly + approachable and his driving skills were excellent. ”
Metin was a fantastic guide! He was not only informative and knew so much about this history of the places we were visiting but was also hilarious and fun! We loved our time on the tour and don't think it would have been the same without Metin.”
Metin really made the trip a never to be forgotten experience for me. We normally do our own organisation on our overseas trips, but this tour with On The Go gives me a new perspective on our future overseas holidays. The coach driver was also excellent. ”
Metin was excellent. He is very knowledgeable with Turkish history & the local history of areas and citiess we visited. Metin has a great sense of humour which gave us all a laugh from time to time. Thank you Metin for a great tour. Also a big thank you to our coach driver Yüksel. ”
Fantastic time learning about a country that I had limited knowledge of. Metin has been a ripper in expressing his knowledge of locations, history, tips at places, a real pleasure. Have felt safe and comfortable all trip. ”
I thought the tour was great, we saw a lot of the country & Murat was a very good guide who made sure we were looked after and went out of his way to help u & to make sure we enjoyed ourselves. The only problem with the tour it was that it was NOT long enough, it would have been great to spend more time in soem places so we migth have to go back again in a few years to see it again. ”
I had a fantastic time!! 2 weeks went by so fast because we were having such a good time, everyone on my tour (bus C) was friendly, on time, and easy to get along with. Loved all the sights we saw & felt very well looked after by tour guide & driver - had not travelled with on the go before, was very impressed with every aspect.”
Reggie was amazing, he was extremely informative, fun and nothing was to much trouble for him. He really made us feel very comfortable and safe. I loved all the local eating,I would never normally risk eating local food when travelling............I truly got to experience the entirety of Turkey.
I am going to miss his cheeriness when I go home
xxxxx”
At a Glance
Extra Tour Info
Murat was a fabulous tour guide - the right mix of detailed information also mixed with personal and cultural information. He was very organised, extremely pleasant to deal with - nothing was ever a problem. He went above and beyond many times, serving us meals at some very bus restaurants to help out.
The ancient sites were incredible - my only complaint was that I could not stay longer!
Some of the hotels were not very comfortable but I think this being a very busy time with the Anzac Centenary there was a shortage of accommodation of this standard.”
