Istanbul, Gallipoli, ANZAC Day - Dawn Service and ANZAC Memorial Services, Istanbul Tour, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale
Highlights
Istanbul, Gallipoli, ANZAC Day - Dawn Service and ANZAC Memorial Services, Istanbul City Tour to the Blue Mosque, St. Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome and the Grand Bazaar, ancient Troy, Ephesus, Sirince, Kusadasi, Pamukkale
Itinerary
Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Istanbul for the start of your trip.
OVERNIGHT:
Istanbul hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
Extra day in Istanbul - pre-tour
Our trip begins this morning with a full day tour of Istanbul. Lying across two continents this historically important city played an integral role in the development of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. We visit the 17th century Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya museum and explore the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans at Topkapi Palace before ending at the famous Hippodrome.
OVERNIGHT:
Istanbul hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Embark on an early morning departure from Istanbul, venturing towards the landscapes of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Along the scenic drive, make a stop to replenish supplies and gather provisions for the journey ahead.
Upon arrival at this historic site, proceed directly to the iconic Anzac Cove, where you'll secure a comfortable spot on the grassy expanse to settle in for the memorable overnight experience. As darkness descends, reflect upon the sacrifices made on these hallowed grounds, preparing for the dawn of a momentous occasion.
OVERNIGHT:
Çanakkale hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Rise before dawn to partake in the deeply moving ANZAC Day Dawn Service. As the service commences, a profound hush descends, amplifying the solemnity of this poignant occasion. Pay tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives on this historic ground. Following the dawn service, choose to attend either the Australian or New Zealand Memorial service, delving deeper into the individual stories of valor and camaraderie.
In the afternoon, embark on the return journey to Istanbul where we'll spend the night.
OVERNIGHT:
Çanakkale hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Leaving Canakkale, we journey to the legendary city of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we'll delve into the award-winning Troy Museum and then explore the ancient city itself. Wander through its fabled walls, envision the battles of heroes like Achilles and Hector, and admire the remnants of temples and theatres that echo with tales of a magnificent past.
Our day ends with a drive to the coastal city of Kusadasi.
OVERNIGHT:
Kusadasi hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
After breakfast we drive to the Roman site of Ephesus. The city at one time housed 250,000 people and is regarded as one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. We visit the Temple of Artemis, and explore the ancient marble streets of this ruined Roman city. This afternoon we visit the fruit wine growing village of Sirince and learn about the history of carpet weaving in Turkey.
OVERNIGHT:
Kusadasi hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
We travel east this morning to Pamukkale, site of the well known white calcium terraces known as Travertines. Pamukkale translates as 'cotton castles' and the naturally occuring geology here has created cloud like formations unlike anywhere else. We then head to the ancient city of Hierapolis to enjoy a dip in the hot thermal pools lodged amongst ancient columns left by the Romans who used the pools for their therapeutic powers.
We end the day with a short domestic flight back to Istanbul where we spend our final evening.
OVERNIGHT:
Istanbul hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Your time is free today for some last minute sightseeing and shopping in Istanbul before we transfer you to the airport for your flight home.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Extra day in Istanbul - post-tour
included with
All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
All transport and transfers
Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers
Denizli to Istanbul Flight
Services of a local tour leader throughout
Entrance fees for included sightseeing
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Tipping kitty
excluded by
International flights (available on request)
Visa fees
Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips for guide & driver
Any other items not mentioned above
Extras /
Upgrades
Single Room Supplement
This option guarantees you a single room in hotels throughout the tour. If you are a single traveller who would like to share, let us know and we will see if we can pair you up. The single supplement is payable if a room share cannot be arranged.
Extra night pre-tour
This option adds an extra night to the start of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability at the time of booking). Your airport arrival transfer is still included.
Extra night post-tour - Price from £30.00
This option adds an extra night to the end of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability at the time of booking). Your airport departure transfer is still included
Detailed Description
This 8-day tour, focuses on ANZAC Day commemorations while also exploring diverse regions of Turkey, including Troy and the newly opened museum, Ephesus, Pamukkale and Kusadasi.
This eight-day tour begins in Istanbul, immersing you in the city's rich history and culture through guided visits to iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. You'll then embark on a poignant journey to Gallipoli, where you'll pay homage to fallen soldiers at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service and explore the historic battlefields.
The adventure continues with a visit to the legendary city of Troy and its award-winning museum, followed by explorations of ancient Ephesus, the charming village of Sirince, and the stunning white terraces of Pamukkale. Along the way, you'll witness traditional carpet weaving, learn about the therapeutic hot springs of Hierapolis, and savor the flavors of Turkish cuisine. The tour concludes back in Istanbul, leaving you with cherished memories of a diverse and enriching experience
