Why you’ll love this trip
- Discover the Old City of Istanbul on a walking tour that includes the majestic Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome of Constantinople and the Grand Bazaar.
- Explore Cappadocia’s wild natural rock formations while hiking through valleys, and see incredible stone-carved buildings in Goreme.
- Board a ‘gulet’ boat for a day on the sea. Cruise over the sunken city around Kekova Island, swim in crystal-clear water and relax on deck.
- Reflect on battles fought and lives lost with a moving visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula, touring former battlefields and the remains of Turkish trenches.
- Spend two days exploring the cliffside waterfalls, cobblestone alleyways and ancient ruins of Antalya, a city on the Mediterranean Coast.
Is this trip right for you?
- The weather can be hot in July and August, but this is also the best time to enjoy the clear water of the Mediterranean – don’t forget your swim gear.
- This trip gives you lots of control over your travels, with some included site visits and lots of choices for your free time.
- You’ll need walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and a daypack for the Gallipoli site visit and the valley walk in Cappadocia. These tours are guided, but you can wander at your own pace if you prefer.
- Public transport is better for the environment, and you’ll get an authentic look at daily life, but keep in mind that local transport between locations on this trip can be pretty basic. Travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions, so books, podcasts and car games will be your best friend.
Day 1: Istanbul
Hosgeldinz! Welcome to Istanbul, a bustling mega-city with a rich history and food scene waiting to be explored. Your trip begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you will meet your leader and fellow travellers. After the meeting, you might want to head out as a group to grab dinner and get to know each other.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Add on activities
- Istanbul – Spice Market – Free
- Istanbul – Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) – TRY150
- Istanbul – Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) – TRY1500
- Istanbul – Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) – EUR100
- Istanbul – Galata Tower – EUR30
- Istanbul – Hagia Sophia – EUR25
- Istanbul – Archaeology Museum – EUR15
Special information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
The prices listed for optional activities cover entry fees only and do not include any transport fees. Prices are subject to change.
Day 2: Istanbul
Meet your local guide early this morning for a guided tour of Sultanahmet AKA the Old City, formerly Constantinople, to see Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy free time for the rest of the afternoon and evening. Maybe visit the jaw-dropping Hagia Sofia, said to have changed the history of architecture. Or maybe enjoy a steam session at a traditional hamam (public bath). Your tour leader knows all the best places, so they can recommend some great options for places to eat.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals
- Breakfast
Included activities
- Istanbul – Orientation Walk
Add on activities
- Istanbul – Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) – EUR100
- Istanbul – Hagia Sophia – EUR25
Day 3: Gallipoli – Canakkale
Head for the shores of Gallipoli, the site of the ANZAC landings, one of the most disastrous Allied campaigns of WWI. Visit the battlefields of Nek and Lone Pine and encounter remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Hear stories of the heroism and camaraderie that unfolded among the tragedies and take the time to read moving inscriptions etched onto a sea of gravestones. There will also be the option to visit the Kabatepe Museum, which includes interactive presentations of the battle, as well as numerous relics from the campaign. Then, take the short ferry ride from Europe to Asia across the Dardanelles to Canakkale, a charming traditional fishing town that has a great range of dinner and nightlife options, not to mention medieval ruins to explore.
Accommodation
- Pension (1 night)
Meals
- Breakfast
Included activities
- Gallipoli – Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair
Special information
Total travel time today is approximately 5.5 hours.
Day 4: Selcuk
After breakfast, take a local bus to the traditional farming village of Selcuk. Take a guided walk around the town and the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill in the afternoon. See the 14th-century Isa Bey Mosque, the imposing the Grand Fortress and the ruins of the Basilica of St John. According to Christian lore, St John came to Ephesus with the Virgin Mary from Jerusalem and lived here until his death sometime around AD 100. The basilica stands over his alleged burial site. Your evening is free.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals
- Breakfast
Included activities
- Selcuk – Leader-led orientation walk
Special information
The Isa Bey Mosque is currently under renovation and can be viewed from the outside only.
Day 5: Selcuk
Today, choose whether you would like to take a guided tour of Ephesus with your tour leader or strike out on your own via a dolmus (local bus). One of the best-preserved Greco Roman cities in the world, Ephesus once had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a renowned medical institute, and Roman baths. In the afternoon, you can choose to join an optional excursion to Sirince to taste some local wines.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals
- Breakfast
Add on activities
- Ephesus – Archaeological site visit – EUR40
- Ephesus – Terrace Houses entry – EUR15
- Selcuk – Basilica of St John – EUR6
- Selcuk – Meryemana (Mary’s House) – EUR15
Special information
Prices listed for optional activities include entry fees only and exclude any transport costs.
Day 6: Pamukkale
Take a train inland to one of Turkey’s most photographed sites, Pamukkale, which literally translates to ‘cotton castle’. Here spectacular natural hot springs with high calcium bicarbonate content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, leaving white terraces (the ‘cotton’). It’s been used as a spa since 200 BC. Though you won’t be able to bathe in these travertines, you can take a walk through them (after removing your shoes). You can choose to take an optional excursion to the ancient city of Hierapolis in the afternoon – speak to your leader for more information.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals
- Breakfast
Add on activities
- Pamukkale – Cleopatra Ancient Pool – TRY200
- Pamukkale – Hierapolis and Travertines National Park – EUR30
Special information
Prices listed for optional activities listed include entry fees only and exclude any transport costs.
Day 7: Fethiye
Take a local bus to Oludeniz and enjoy some time at the three-kilometre-long beach. Please note you will need to pay a small fee if you want to access the Blue Lagoon. Later, transfer to the quaint town of Fethiye. If conditions allow, it is possible to take an optional excursion to Kayakoy ghost village, an abandoned town that is both eerie and beautiful. This evening, enjoy a walk by the harbour and look up to see massive Lycian rock tombs cut from the cliffside.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
Meals
- Breakfast
Add on activities
- Kayakoy – Village visit – EUR3
Special information
Travel time today is approximately 5 hours. Prices listed for optional activities include entry fees only and exclude any transport costs.
Why You’ll Love This Trip • Embark on a walking tour through Istanbul’s Old City, encompassing iconic landmarks like the majestic Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome of Constantinople, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. • Immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, hiking through rugged valleys and marveling at the incredible stone-carved structures of Goreme. • Set sail on a traditional ‘gulet’ boat for a day of relaxation and exploration along the stunning Turquoise Coast. Cruise past the submerged ruins of the ancient city near Kekova Island, take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, and unwind on deck. • Pay homage to history with a poignant visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where you’ll tour former battlefields and witness the remains of Turkish trenches, reflecting on the sacrifices made during past conflicts. • Discover the charms of Antalya, spending two days exploring its cliffside waterfalls, labyrinthine cobblestone streets, and ancient ruins nestled along the picturesque Mediterranean Coast.
Is This Trip Right for You? • While July and August can bring hot weather, it’s also the ideal time to bask in the Mediterranean’s clear waters, so don’t forget to pack your swimwear. • This trip offers a blend of structured activities and ample free time, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences. • Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a daypack for excursions like the Gallipoli site visit and the valley hike in Cappadocia. While these tours are guided, you’re welcome to explore at your own pace. • Embrace the use of public transportation for a more authentic experience of daily life, although be prepared for basic amenities during inter-location travel. Keep yourself entertained during transit with books, podcasts, or car games, as travel times may vary due to traffic conditions.
Day 1:
Istanbul Welcome to Istanbul! Kick off your adventure with a 6 pm welcome meeting, where you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow travelers. Afterward, consider joining the group for a dinner outing to bond and explore the vibrant culinary scene of the city. Accommodation • Overnight at a hotel (1 night) Meals • No meals included on this day Optional Activities • Istanbul – Spice Market – Free • Istanbul – Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) – TRY150 • Istanbul – Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) – TRY1500 • Istanbul – Turkish Hamam (including massage) – EUR100 • Istanbul – Galata Tower – EUR30 • Istanbul – Hagia Sophia – EUR25 • Istanbul – Archaeology Museum – EUR15 Special Information Attending the welcome meeting is crucial for collecting insurance details and next of kin information. If you anticipate being late, please notify your travel agent or hotel reception. Refer to reception or lobby notices for meeting location details. Optional activity prices cover entry fees only and exclude transport fees, subject to change.
Day 2:
Istanbul Embark on a guided tour of Sultanahmet, also known as the Old City, with highlights including the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy free time afterward to explore further, perhaps visiting the iconic Hagia Sophia or indulging in a traditional hamam experience. Lean on your tour leader’s expertise for dining recommendations. Accommodation • Overnight at a hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Included Activities • Istanbul – Orientation Walk Optional Activities • Istanbul – Turkish Hamam (including massage) – EUR100 • Istanbul – Hagia Sophia – EUR25
Day 3:
Gallipoli – Canakkale Journey to Gallipoli, the site of the ANZAC landings during WWI, for a somber yet enlightening exploration of its battlefields, including stops at Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair. Reflect on the stories of heroism amidst tragedy and pay respects at memorial sites. Later, ferry across the Dardanelles to Canakkale, a quaint fishing town offering historical intrigue and vibrant nightlife. Accommodation • Overnight at a pension (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Included Activities • Gallipoli – Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair Special Information Total travel time approximately 5.5 hours.
Day 4:
Selcuk After breakfast, hop on a local bus to Selcuk, a charming farming village steeped in history. Join a guided walk around town, exploring attractions like the Isa Bey Mosque, the Grand Fortress, and the ruins of the Basilica of St. John. Enjoy a free evening at your leisure. Accommodation • Overnight at a hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Included Activities • Selcuk – Leader-led Orientation Walk Special Information The Isa Bey Mosque is currently undergoing renovation and can only be viewed from the outside.
Day 5:
Selcuk Today, opt for a guided tour of Ephesus with your tour leader or venture out independently via dolmus (local bus). Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, offers insights into ancient civilization. In the afternoon, consider joining an optional excursion to Sirince for a taste of local wines. Accommodation • Overnight at a hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Optional Activities • Ephesus – Archaeological Site Visit – EUR40 • Ephesus – Terrace Houses Entry – EUR15 • Selcuk – Basilica of St. John – EUR6 • Selcuk – Meryemana (Mary’s House) – EUR15 Special Information Optional activity prices include entry fees only, excluding transport costs.
Day 6:
Pamukkale Embark on a train journey to Pamukkale, renowned for its stunning natural hot springs cascading over cliffs, forming ‘cotton-like’ terraces. Enjoy a leisurely walk through these terraces, and opt for an afternoon excursion to the ancient city of Hierapolis. Consult your leader for details. Accommodation • Overnight at a hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Optional Activities • Pamukkale – Cleopatra Ancient Pool – TRY200 • Pamukkale – Hierapolis and Travertines National Park – EUR30 Special Information Optional activity prices include entry fees only, excluding transport costs.
Day 7:
Fethiye Travel by local bus to Oludeniz, where you can unwind at the scenic beach, with the option to access the Blue Lagoon for a small fee. Later, journey to Fethiye, where you can explore the town’s historic attractions and enjoy a stroll by the harbor, admiring the Lycian rock tombs. Accommodation • Overnight at a hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Optional Activities • Kayakoy – Village Visit – EUR3 Special Information Approximate travel time: 5 hours. Optional activity prices include entry fees only, excluding transport costs.
Day 8:
Exploring the Southern Coast and Kekova Start your day by hopping on a local bus to Ucagiz, where a remarkable voyage along the Turquoise Coast awaits you. Board a boat to cruise through some of the world’s most breathtaking coastal scenery. Sail to Kekova Island to witness the mesmerizing sunken cities beneath the crystal-clear waters and take a leisurely stroll to Simena Castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding bays and islands. As the afternoon wanes, transfer to Kekova for a serene overnight stay.
Accommodation • Overnight at a guest house (1 night) Meals • Breakfast • Lunch Included Activities • Day sailing along the Turkish Coast
Day 9:
Arrival in Antalya After a hearty breakfast, continue your journey to Antalya, your home for the next two nights. Upon arrival, embrace the freedom to explore at your own pace. Antalya welcomes you with its charming cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina, and the majestic backdrop of the Taurus Mountains. Take a leisurely walk around the markets, hop on the old Nostalgic Tram, or unwind at Konyaalti Beach. History buffs can delve into the region’s rich heritage with visits to renowned museums or the ancient city of Aspendos. In the evening, relish the opportunity to dine and unwind with your travel companions amidst Antalya’s lively nightlife scene.
Accommodation • Hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Add-on Activities • Antalya Museum – EUR15 Special Information Approximate travel time: 3 hours.
Day 10:
Leisure in Antalya Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Antalya at your own pace. Opt for optional excursions if you seek guidance. Nature enthusiasts can rejuvenate at Duden Waterfalls, while history aficionados can embark on excursions to Termessos, Aspendos, or Side. Alternatively, savor the ambiance of Antalya, soaking in its seaside charm.
Accommodation • Hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Add-on Activities • Aspendos Ancient City – EUR15 Special Information Optional activity prices include entry fees only, excluding transport costs.
Day 11:
Journey to Konya This morning, embark on a scenic journey inland to Konya, a city steeped in tradition and untouched by mainstream tourism. Discover the spiritual heritage of the Whirling Dervish sect, established by Rumi in the 13th century, during an orientation walk with your tour leader. Savor a refreshing drink amidst the tranquil ambiance of the city’s tea gardens. In the evening, join your group for a culinary exploration of central Anatolian cuisine.
Accommodation • Hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Included Activities • Leader-led orientation walk in Konya Special Information Approximate travel time: 5.5 hours.
Day 12:
Arrival in Cappadocia After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey by local bus to Goreme, the heart of Cappadocia, renowned for its unique landscapes shaped by soft volcanic rock. Upon arrival, stretch your legs with an orientation walk led by your tour leader.
Accommodation • Hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Included Activities • Valley walk in Cappadocia Add-on Activities • Whirling Dervish performance in Goreme – EUR30 Special Information Approximate travel time: 3.5 hours. Note: If interested in a hot air balloon ride, consult your tour leader on Day 1. This activity can be booked locally.
Day 13:
Exploration in Cappadocia Today offers a free day to delve into the wonders of Goreme and its surroundings. Explore the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, comprising churches, rectories, and dwellings carved into the earth. Venture into underground cities like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, marveling at their intricate tunnels. For hiking enthusiasts, the valleys of Red, Rose, or Love await exploration. Seek guidance from your tour leader for organizing your day.
Accommodation • Hotel (1 night) Meals • Breakfast Add-on Activities • Goreme Open Air Museum – EUR20 • Derinkuyu Underground City – EUR13 • Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight – EUR260 • Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight – EUR330 • Kaymakli Underground City – EUR13 Special Information Optional activity prices include entry fees only, excluding transport costs. Group tours of the region are available upon consultation with your tour leader.
Day 14:
Farewell to Cappadocia With no scheduled activities for the day, bid adieu to Cappadocia at your leisure after breakfast, ensuring compliance with your accommodation’s check-out times. If you wish to extend your exploration of Cappadocia, feel free to reach out to us in advance to arrange additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Meals • Breakfast
