Join this 11-day adventure in Istanbul, visiting iconic sites like Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar. Then, venture to the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, where you'll embark on an exhilarating jeep safari adventure. Explore the underground city, Open Air Museum, and natural fortress. Your journey continues with stops in Konya and Pamukkale, home to the impressive Hierapolis, and then to Izmir. Discover the ancient city of Ephesus, explore the legendary Troy, Gallipoli, and return to Istanbul.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Istanbul
Friday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Overnight: Istanbul
Tour of Istanbul
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Jeep Safari
Istanbul - Cappadocia. Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kayseri. Upon arrival, your journey in Cappadocia begins with a visit to the Turasan wine factory, where you'll have the chance to taste some of the region's exquisite wines.
The adventure continues with a jeep safari, starting in Goreme and heading to Ortahisar. Along the way, you'll explore the picturesque Ortahisar Castle and journey through Uzengi Valley, passing by brooks and witnessing the pigeon houses carved into the rocks. Your expedition will lead you to Sahintepesi, where you can unwind.
As the day concludes, we'll return to Goreme, passing by Pancarlik church. Afterwards, you'll be transferred to your hotel for the night.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Dinner
Captivating Cappadocia
This morning, you have the option to embark on an early morning adventure with an iconic Balloon tour, offering a view of Cappadocia's breathtaking landscapes from the skies.
Afterward, a full day of exploration in Cappadocia awaits, beginning with visits to an underground city, the Open Air Museum in Goreme, and the natural fortress in Uchisar.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and take the opportunity to discover the rich history behind local handicrafts, such as hand-made carpets, Turkish tiles, onyx, and potteries.
Tonight, you can opt to join our optional night tour featuring a mesmerizing Turkish show and dinner.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast, Lunch
Enroute to Pamukkale
Cappadocia - Konya - Pamukkale. Your day begins with an early departure as we make our way to the stunning Pamukkale. En route, we'll explore the 13th-century Sultanhan Caravanserai.
Our journey then takes us to the historic city of Konya, where we'll visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, an iconic spiritual site dedicated to the renowned Sufi mystic and poet, Rumi.
Continuing the journey, we'll arrive in Pamukkale, renowned for its unique terraces of white mineral-rich water. Here, you'll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Hierapolis & The Temple of Artemis
Pamukkale - Izmir. Today we'll visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent Necropolis and the intriguing lime cascade. The Necropolis has remarkable tomb structures, and cascading terraces of white water.
From Hierapolis, we head to Selcuk, where you'll visit the Temple of Artemis, once celebrated as one of the "Seven Wonders of the Ancient World."
The day ends with our arrival in Izmir, where you'll enjoy a comfortable overnight stay and dinner.
Overnight: Izmir | Breakfast, Dinner
The Ancient Ephesus
Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Izmir. Enjoy a scenic drive to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the privilege of visiting its renowned library, grand theater, and captivating temples.
For lunch, we'll provide a unique experience in a nomadic tent in Selcuk, where you'll have the opportunity to try Turkish Gozleme, a traditional dish.
Our journey then continues to the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of the most beautiful villages in Turkey. Here, you enjoy the village's picturesque ambiance, do some shopping, and taste the delicious local wines that the village is famous for.
As the day draws to a close, we return to Izmir for the night.
Overnight: Izmir | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Magnificent Troy
Izmir - Pergamum - Troy - Canakkale. Start your day early, as we head to Bergama to explore the Asklepion, an ancient healing center with remarkably preserved ruins.
As you venture to Troy, immerse yourself in the legends of the Trojan War, standing at the site where the legendary conflict unfolded. After some exploration, we'll head for our overnight stay in Canakkale.
Overnight: Canakkale | Breakfast, Dinner
Gallipoli & ANZAC Cove
Canakkale - Gallipoli - Istanbul. Today, you'll embark on a journey to Gallipoli, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the legendary landmarks of ANZAC Cove, Nek, Conk Bair, Lone Pine, and the 57th Regiment Memorial.
Your day concludes as we return to Istanbul.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Back Streets of Istanbul
The day begins around the Spice Market area, where you'll discover the enchanting world of spices that have long dominated Ottoman cuisine. Savour Turkish Delight and various nuts, delighting your senses.
As you walk through the Galata Bridge to the Galata area, you'll stop to taste baklava, a beloved Turkish dessert. Galata is now a thriving cultural hub, home to design shops, contemporary culture creators, wine cellars, and boutique hotels.
Along the way to Beyoglu, sample Turkish coffee, sesame pretzels, and roasted chestnuts. Upon reaching Beyoglu, the adventure continues with a taste of fried mussels, mussel dolma, pickles, and more.
After the tour, you'll be transferred back to your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Goodbye
Monday. Today marks the end of your Turkish adventure. Departure transfer is included to Istanbul (Ataturk) Airport.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
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.
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.
Arena Hotel, Istanbul
The Arena Hotel is an excellent example of a 19th Century Ottoman stone house which has beed restored and decorated with modern facilities. Fully air-conditioned and heated. All rooms come with a full bath, direct dial telephone, wireless network system, hair-dryer, safe, cable TV, radio, and minibar.
Yusuf Yigitoglu Konagi, Cappadocia
Fully restored in 2003, Yusuf Yigitoglu was a 19th century mansion tucked in to the caves of ancient Cappadocia. Guest rooms are cosy with comfortable furnishings and make guests feel like they truly are sleeping in an ancient cave. Complimentary wifi internet is available and there are a couple of bars on site where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink whilst taking in the unique surroundings that this stunning area has to offer. The hotel is centrally located in the town of Urgup.
MDC Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
MDC Cave Hotel is a luxury cave hotel located in Ürgüp's Old Town. It offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and spa baths. The hotel features heated marble floors, stone fireplaces, and arched ceilings. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the restaurant, relax on the sun terrace, or use the barbecue facilities in the garden. The hotel has a conference room, tour desk, and offers activities such as hot-air balloon rides and hikes in Cappadocia.
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.
Kaya Prestige Hotel, Izmir
Kaya Prestige, ideally located in the heart of Izmir City Centre, offers a refined and comfortable retreat. The hotel boasts elegant rooms with city views from its rooftop terrace, and both WiFi and parking are complimentary. Each room features plush carpeted floors, flat-screen TVs, and a spacious seating area. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the on-site dining options, including Turkish delights at Sediv and Mediterranean cuisine at the Divan Restaurant, complemented by live music. The Merhaba Bar offers a selection of beverages along with breathtaking city vistas.
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.
At a Glance
Both were fantastic, our guide was so knowledgeable and kept an eye on all of us, couldn't fault him in anyway. The accomodation at the cave hotel was out of this world amazing and beautiful, the food was a bit ordinary and staff not so attentive, would have loved to stay longer and try one of the massages. The other hotels were good but that one just stood out for me.
Our bus driver was very proficient and kind too.”
