Ottoman Odyssey

Welcome to Istanbul! On arrival in the city, you will be escorted to our hotel. There is a brief welcome meeting with our guide and then the rest of the evening is at leisure for you to relax or head out and explore the city, formerly known as Constantinople.

We begin our day of guided sightseeing at Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Built in the 6th century as a church, it later became a mosque and continues to serve as one today. Next, we visit the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting hub of Constantinople, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies once took place. Our tour continues to the Blue Mosque, renowned for its striking blue Iznik tiles and impressive domes.

You may choose to add an optional visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum (booked and paid locally), the lavish former residence of Ottoman sultans (please note the Harem section is not included). Later, we stroll through the lively Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, where thousands of shops line its bustling alleys. In the evening, you have the option to enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner with a belly dancing show, rounding off the day with music, flavour and entertainment.

Istanbul - Gallipoli - Dardanelles - Canakkale. After breakfast, we visit Gallipoli, where many crucial and bloody battles were fought during the First World War. We pay our respects at ANZAC Cove, walk through the poignant Lone Pine Cemetery, and stand atop Chunuk Bair, imagining the battles that shaped history. After a day filled with sobering reflection and discovery, we head to Canakkale for an overnight stay.

Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Izmir. After breakfast, we say goodbye to Canakkale as we visit the fabled city of Troy, complete with a replica wooden horse! As well as featuring in a well-known Greek legend, the city of Troy is known for its archaeological wonders, with many ancient towns and cities having been built and rebuilt on top of each other.

Before arriving at Asklepion, we enjoy a delicious lunch with locals in a charming village, soaking up the traditional atmosphere and hospitality. We then continue to Pergamum, where we explore the fascinating ruins of the ancient Medical Centre at Asklepion. After an inspiring day of history and culture, we make our way to Izmir for an overnight stay.

Izmir - Ephesus - Izmir. Today, you can spend the day at leisure or embark on an optional tour of the world-renowned ruins of Ephesus (booked and paid locally). This ancient city served as a pivotal cultural hub in the past and continues to captivate visitors today. Walk alongside 2,000-year-old marble streets, marvel at the grandeur of an ancient theatre, explore the breathtaking Library of Celsus and the impressive gymnasium, and be awe-inspired by the remarkable Hadrian's Temple.

Our next stop is the House of the Virgin Mary, an important Catholic shrine believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years, accompanied by Saint John. We also visit a regional rug production centre today, to have a firsthand experience of this unique art form. We then return to our hotel in Izmir for an evening at leisure.

Izmir - Pamukkale. We begin with a visit to a leather fashion showroom, highlighting the quality and style of Turkish craftsmanship. We then continue to Pamukkale, famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces shaped by natural thermal springs. Our tour also takes us through the ancient spa city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ruins and historic significance. In the evening, we enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in the area.

Pamukkale - Fethiye. This morning we drive to the coastal town of Fethiye. On arrival, we take a walking tour that includes the Telmessos Ancient Theatre and the lively Fish Market, where the town’s vibrant daily life can be seen. We end the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Fethiye.

Today is free for you to relax at leisure, or you may join an optional boat cruise along the turquoise coast. The cruise includes swim stops at secluded bays and small islands, offering a chance to enjoy the region’s natural beauty from the water.

Fethiye - Antalya. After breakfast, we set off for Antalya, where we enjoy a walking tour of the charming old town centre. Here we can soak up the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting city. Dinner is included tonight.

Enjoy a full day in Antalya at leisure, with the option to join an exciting tour to Perge and Aspendos at an additional fee.

In the afternoon, you’re free to explore at your own pace or relax as you wish. We’ll then gather for a dinner at our hotel to cap off the day.

Antalya - Cappadocia. We set off early in the morning after breakfast. Our journey today is to Cappadocia, with a fascinating visit to a 13th-century Caravanserai (traditional Silk Road inn) along the way. Later, we explore the underground city of Saratli. After a day full of adventure, we enjoy dinner and spend the night in the magical landscape of Cappadocia. We are staying in one of Cappadocia's famous cave hotels, which dates back thousands of years and has been restored. It promises to be a memorable two-night stay here!

Opt to start your day with an exhilarating hot air balloon tour, floating gently above Cappadocia's volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys, and ancient caves as the sun rises. (booked and paid locally)

Later, you may join an optional half-day tour (booked and paid locally), which includes the Göreme Open-Air Museum, the town of Avanos, famous for its pottery, the unusual rock formations of Devrent (Imagination) Valley, and the scenic Red Valley. During the visit, you can also take part in a hands-on pottery demonstration.

Dinner is served at the hotel and you can opt to attend a Whirling Dervishes ceremony (booked and paid locally), an atmospheric performance rooted in Sufi traditions.

Cappadocia - Ankara. After breakfast, we make the journey to the Turkish capital, Ankara, travelling through the scenic Salt Lake region. Upon arrival, we visit the impressive Mausoleum of Ataturk, the revered father of modern Turkey, where we gain insights into his pivotal role in shaping the nation.

Ankara - Istanbul. After breakfast, we set off for Istanbul. In the afternoon, you have the option to embark on a captivating half-day Bosphorus cruise at an additional fee. Here you can marvel at the strait that divides Asia and Europe. As you glide along, enjoy views of charming neighbourhoods, grand Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, traditional wooden villas, hotels, parks, and cafés.

Next, why not head to the Spice Market for some last-minute shopping, immersing yourself in the enticing aromas of exotic spices from the East?

To conclude our adventure, we gather for a delightful farewell dinner, celebrating the end of our unforgettable journey.

Your Turkish adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before an included transfer to the airport for your onward flight.