Welcome to Turkey. On arrival you will be met in the arrivals area by a representative of our local operator then transferred to your hotel in the Old City where accommodation is reserved for three nights. Remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight Istanbul.

Today join a small group tour of Istanbul. Begin your morning at Topkapi Palace, marvelling at its treasures and imagining the Sultan's life. Your journey continues with a stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, home to over 5,000 shops offering everything from rugs to lamps. Lunch invites you to savour authentic Turkish cuisine at a cozy local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Hippodrome, once Istanbul's social hub, followed by the stunning Blue Mosque adorned with hand-painted tiles, and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture. Istanbul's charm will captivate you instantly.

Note: Topkapi Palace closed Tuesdays | Grand Bazaar closed Sundays

Day at leisure or optional Istanbul experiences.

Bid farewell to Ottoman-inspired Istanbul this morning. Transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Cappadocia, a land of surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings. Upon arrival, settle into your cave-style hotel amidst this otherworldly setting. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, followed by dinner at your hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a memorable day trip starting at Göreme Open Air Museum, renowned for its Byzantine cave churches. Continue to Pashabagi, also known as Monks Valley, and Devrent Valley, nicknamed "Imagination Valley" for its surreal rock formations. After lunch, explore Avanos and Urgup, known for traditional pottery, with a pottery demonstration included. At the end of your tour you will be returned to your hotel.

After breakfast at your hotel, set off on the South Cappadocia Tour. Your first stop is Uchisar Castle, offering panoramic views of the region. Continue to the Underground City, one of Cappadocia’s most well-preserved subterranean complexes. Then, hike through Love Valley and Rose Valley, named for the striking rose-colored rock formations. Conclude with a visit to Cavusin Village before returning to your hotel.

This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Nevsehir airport for your flight to Izmir. On arrival, you will be transferred to your Kusadasi hotel where accommodation has been reserved for three nights. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure, taking in Kusadasi’s vibrant atmosphere and scenic coastline.

Today, journey to Ephesus, an extraordinary ancient city reflecting Hellenistic and Roman grandeur. Begin with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. This sacred site is revered by both Christians and Muslims. Every year, on August 15th, a ceremony is organized to commemorate Mary's Assumption. Next, explore the ancient city’s highlights, including the Odeon, Hadrian Temple, Celsius Library, and the grand Ephesus Theatre. The day concludes with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Kusadasi.

Today, visit Pamukkale, known for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. After lunch in Pamukkale, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the well-preserved Necropolis, Roman Bath, and the Apollo Temple before walking along the natural thermal terraces. You’ll also have the option to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, a historic thermal bath. After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel in Kusadasi.

Depart Kusadasi by tourist bus and travel to Pergamon, home to a spectacular ancient Acropolis perched high above the city. Explore its remarkable ruins before continuing to Troy, where you’ll see the legendary site of the Trojan War and a replica of the famous wooden horse. Finally, head to Canakkale and the Gallipoli Peninsula, where you’ll spend the night.

Morning at leisure to wander around the area. Meet your local guide and after lunch at a local restaurant, depart on a guided tour of Gallipoli. Visits will include Brighton Beach, Beach Cemetery, ANZAC Cove, Ariburnu Cemetery, ANZAC Commemorative Site, Mehmetcik Statue, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Johnston's Jolly (Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels), Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery, The Nek Cemetery and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial. Upon completion of the tour take the tourist bus back to Istanbul arriving around 10.00pm in the evening. Overnight in Istanbul.

A free day to explore Istanbul at your own pace. Wander through Galata and Karaköy, experiencing their vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and trendy cafés. Admire breathtaking Bosphorus views, soaking in the blend of ancient and modern Istanbul.

This evening Dining out in a Turkish Way (6.30pm – 11.30pm). Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s local food culture with an authentic dining experience. Start with a traditional simit at a local bakery, then visit a tea house where locals gather to socialize. Continue to an Ocakbaşı (self-service barbecue restaurant) for delicious grilled kebabs paired with Turkish raki. Pass by bustling eateries before arriving at a Meyhane (traditional tavern) to enjoy meze, raki, and live Turkish music. End the night with a bowl of tripe soup, a favorite late-night dish, and a cup of strong Turkish coffee before returning to your hotel with unforgettable memories.

This morning you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Istanbul airport for your onward arrangements.