Explore stunning Istanbul with its bazaars and mosques and wander around the battlefields of Gallipoli See Roman ruins in Pergamum and Ephesus, discover the beautiful Aegean Coast, the natural wonder of Pamukkale and the jewel in Turkey’s crown - Cappadocia, with its amazing underground cities and whimsical landscape.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Turkey
Saturday. Welcome to Turkey and the start of your holiday. There's an included arrival transfer to our hotel. After check in, relax in the hotel or head out and explore the city. At 8 pm, we'll gather in the hotel to meet our fellow travellers and the guide before our adventure begins.
Overnight: Istanbul
The Old City
This morning we'll embark on a fascinating tour through the Old City of Istanbul, we'll visit stunning examples of architecture that hail from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires eras. We’ll visit the stunning Blue Mosque, both inside and out. See the six exterior minarets and the famed blue Iznik tiles. Discover the Hippodrome and view the exterior of Hagia Sophia, which was constructed as a Basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Finally, we explore the impressive interior of Topkapi Palace, which was the main residence of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th century.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Gallipoli - WW1 Battlefields
Istanbul – Gallipoli. 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: Canakkale | Breakfast
Troy & Kusadasi
Gallipoli – Kusadasi. This morning 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 it’s rediscovery in 1863. Subsequent excavations revealed nine ancient cities, one on top of the other, dating back to 3000 BC. We enjoy a tour of the ruins and admire a replica of the Trojan wooden horse that, as legend goes, was filled with Aechaean soldiers who helped to sack Troy.
Driving further south we reach the ancient ruins of Pergamum, home to one of the steepest amphitheatres in the classical world. Pergamum was also famous for its Asclepion (medical centre). We continue to Kusadasi on the Aegean Coast via a leather manufacturing house.
Overnight: Kusadasi | Breakfast
Ancient Ephesus
Today, we explore legendary Ephesus - perhaps the best-preserved classical city in the eastern Mediterranean. Under Roman rule, Ephesus was a vast and prosperous city with a population nearing 250,000. It was an important centre of commerce and a popular destination for pilgrims who came to see the great Temple of Artemis - one of the Seven Ancient Wonders.
We have plenty of time to tour the marble ruins of Ephesus. Discover the famous Library of Celsus, the Stadium, the gymnasium of Vedius and the Great Theatre. We’ll see ancient public toilets, a brothel, fountains and various temples. There's also a visit to a carpet manufacturing house.
Overnight: Kusadasi | Breakfast
Pamukkale Thermal Pools
Kusadasi – Pamukkale. Driving east, we arrive at Pamukkale - home of the famous gleaming white calcium terraced pools. Known locally as the Cotton Castles, they're a natural phenomena and gift from Mother Nature. Pamukkale was formed when warm, calcium rich mineral water cascaded over the cliff edge, cooling and depositing in the process. The calcium built natural shelves and pools on the cliffs are known as travertines. Take a barefoot walk along the travertines or opt for a dip in the warm waters of the thermal pool, with its submerged fragments of fluted marble columns.
Our last stop of the day is the ruined spa town of Hierapolis, famed for the curative powers of its mineral springs. These were dammed to create communal baths.
Overnight: Pamukkale | Breakfast
Fairytale Cappadocia
Pamukkale - Cappadocia. On day 7 we drive to Cappadocia, stopping to visit some ancient caravanserais (roadside inns) such as Sultanhani. Tonight there's a fun optional evening of Turkish folklore.
On day 8 we enjoy a guided tour of Cappadocia - perhaps the jewel in Turkey’s crown. Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most extraordinary national treasures. The utter improbability of the surreal landscape has to be seen to be believed with its ‘stuff of fables’ cave dwellings and phallic ‘fairy chimneys’ landscape. Whole troglodyte 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. See stunning examples of rock-cut Byzantine churches, chapels and temples. Marvel at Zelve, with its phallic-like eroded landscape. Stopping on the outskirts of Goreme Village we have the opportunity to see Pigeon Valley, where centuries old pigeon houses are carved into the surrounding cliffs. Our tour also takes in the incredible Uchisar castle-mountain. Enjoy marvelous views of Cappadocia from the summit and explore the underground city of Kaymakli.
You'll also have the opportunity to visit an Onyx shop, which specializes in historic jewellery designs that are unique to Turkey and crafted using local materials. For those not interested in shopping, there's time to relax and grab a drink from the local cafe. This evening, we enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Cappadocia | Breakfast x 2, Dinner x 1
Back to Istanbul
Cappadocia - Istanbul. Today we head back to Istanbul, stopping en route for lunch (payable locally). We arrive into Istanbul in the evening.
If you'd prefer to avoid the long journey over land today, we also offer the opportunity to fly from Cappadocia to Istanbul.
Overnight: Istanbul | Breakfast
Istanbul
Monday. After breakfast our tour draws to a close. An onward departure transfer is included to Istanbul International Airport and is offered at 9am and 1pm today.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Seven for Life Thermal Hotel, Kusadasi
Seven For Life Thermal Hotel in Kusadasi is a luxurious retreat with a range of amenities and close proximity to the beach. With an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and hot spring bath, guests are sure to find relaxation here. The added convenience of a restaurant, bar, and free WiFi enhances the overall experience. Families can take advantage of the kid's club. With Venus Beach just 800 meters away and Icmeler Bay Beach a short distance further, guests have easy access to the coastal beauty of the area.
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.
Burcu Kaya Hotel, Cappadocia
Burcu Kaya Hotel, nestled in Cappadocia's Ortahisar District, offers an enchanting stay with its outdoor pool overlooking fairy chimneys, charming stone rooms, and a peaceful garden. The air-conditioned rooms combine authentic decor with modern comforts like flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients at the on-site restaurant or relax with a drink by the lobby bar's fireplace. The hotel also offers activities such as table tennis, darts, and billiards, along with 24-hour assistance. Conveniently located, the hotel is a 5-minute walk from Ortahisar town center.
We were very happy with our guide. Our location in Istanbul was good and central to the sights. The breakfast at the Kent was the best of the hotels that we stayed at. We enjoyed the Elite Hotel at Kusadasi where food was good and location excellent. There was also some nightlife in town after dinner. Some of the hotels had no labels on the food on the buffet. Consequently we did not know whether to try it or not. Desserts were usually good even if not labelled. Our driver was excellent. Our contact at Istanbul airport was easy to find and suggested that on our free days before the tour to go on a tour on the Bosphorus involving first a boat trip along the European side then lunch then a bus trip to the Asian side and a tour of a recently built mosque and a Sultan's Palace. ”
Some of the accomodation could have been better.
Overall quality of the food was mediocre .
Our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful . ”
1. Accomodation options need to be desperately reviewed. All the hotels were outdated and served horrendous food.
2. Food stops and restaurant selection throughout the tour was terrible, we ended up finding our own lunch spots towards the end.
3. Tour guide was OK but it seemed very basic, and nothing we couldn't have sourced ourselves through our own exploring.. which defeats the purpose of a country specific guide. ”
I enjoyed the tour which focused on the amazing history that is Turkyie, the Romans , Christian’s and Pittman influences. Gurkan, the tour guide was knowledgeable, courteous, reliable and friendly.”
Everything was great except the leather, carpet, pottery and jewellery fleecing aspect-I didn't expect to under pressure to buy expensive stuff.”
Our tour guide Esra was exceptional. She was organised, knowledgeable. Approachable , fun, patient and helpful. You could not ask for more. Our bus driver Ibrahim was prompt and drove safely.
A couple of the hotels were a little underwhelming. The one in Cannukale seems very old and the linen was thread bare. Just need to check what amenities they provide in the rooms. In Cappadocia we had one glass and one mug which made it difficult to have a drink. When asking for another one they said only one per room. It was a double room. The Kent was top class. Theses a minor adjustments but easily accommodated.
Overall it was an excellent tour.
Th food was fantastic but maybe some time to go and find a place in the town to eat and time to explore the townsites. Knowing the distances we have to travel to get places we know it’s not always practical.
Thank you. ”
It was a great experience & many thanks to On The Go Tour group for organizing this for us. Highly recommended. Tour guide ( Burhan) was the best we have ever had. His knowledge of the country, history was unbelievable. He looked after every single one of us in the group. Extremely happy. We will come back to On The Go with our next adventure for sure.”
the tour in Turkey was quite good. I was disapointed that you excluded Hagia Sophia, one of the most visited places in Turkey, from the tour itinerary for no valid reason.When asked from our guide as to why Hagia Sophia was not included, she said the guided tuors are not allowed there. However, on the last day of our tour, I had the opportunity to vist Hagia Sophia on my own and I saw a number of guided tours in the mosque. On the second day, we finished the Istanbul tour around 1:00 pm and there were enough time for teh guide to take us to Sophia or at least allow interested individuals to visit there in the afternoon. I guess I was the only person in our touring party had the opprtunity to visit Hagia Sophia. ”
Esra is an amazing tour guide. She is very knowledgeable and knows her tour places inside and out. She was always smiling and very patient especially after the couple of incidents on the tour one being a broken leg the other being a very angry, disgruntled and annoying traveller.
Esra handles her self very professionally in dealing with these problem.
The tour was great only disappointed was the hotel on Cappadocia. It’s was terrible, rooms were dirty/dusty. There was mould on the bathrooms. Breakfast and dinner was ordinary. The 2 outdoor pools one was empty and green and other one the water was cloudy and murky. Obviously need chlorine. (I have a pool at home)
The staff that spoke English when approached with a complaint all o a sudden could no longer speak English. On the go Tours you really need to do better with tha hotel on Cappadocia. ”
Kemal was a terrific tour guide. Informative but not constantly talking. He kept us safe and guided us through the various sites. ”
At a Glance
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We were very happy with our guide. Our location in Istanbul was good and central to the sights. The breakfast at the Kent was the best of the hotels that we stayed at. We enjoyed the Elite Hotel at Kusadasi where food was good and location excellent. There was also some nightlife in town after dinner. Some of the hotels had no labels on the food on the buffet. Consequently we did not know whether to try it or not. Desserts were usually good even if not labelled. Our driver was excellent. Our contact at Istanbul airport was easy to find and suggested that on our free days before the tour to go on a tour on the Bosphorus involving first a boat trip along the European side then lunch then a bus trip to the Asian side and a tour of a recently built mosque and a Sultan's Palace. ”
