Istanbul & Ancient Turkey incl. Cappadocia extension

Let’s travel to Türkiye (Turkey)!

We have arrived in Istanbul! We transfer to our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, to relax and explore our surroundings.

Join us as we embark on an unforgettable Turkish adventure, as we unveil the rich layers, highlights, and diversity of Istanbul! Let’s dive right into the vibrant and dynamic scenes of this incredible city.

Fener/ Balat Walking Tour

We transfer by coach from Taksim to Fener/ Balat and start with a guided walking tour through the neighbourhoods of Fener and Balat. Get ready to fall in love with their colourful wooden houses, wander past eye-catching stairs, charming antique shops, and must-see Instagram spots. We'll also stop for a visit to a historical church, adding a touch of Istanbul’s deep history to our journey.

To complete the experience, we’ll pause to enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee in either Balat/Fener or Sultanahmet – a perfect break amidst the buzz of Istanbul. Come explore with us!

Sultanahmet Walking tour

Next, we transfer by coach and prepare to step back in time at Sultanahmet; marvel the awe-inspiring Ottoman-era Blue Mosque (included), Ancient Hippodrome, Egyptian Obelisks and walk past St. Sophia. Experience more of Istanbul on this half day guided tour.

Please note: 

• Please note: St Sophia is no longer a museum. It has now been converted to a Mosque. During times of prayer, it may not be possible to visit the inside on your free time.
• *In order to preserve the beauty and integrity of the iconic Blue Mosque, restoration work is ongoing at this site. Some phases of the restoration involve scaffolding; thus, a clear view of the entire Mosque may not be possible.

The afternoon is yours to explore the magic of this vibrant city at your own pace.

If you're keen to uncover more of Istanbul's wonders, why not delve into the treasures of Topkapi Palace, marvel at the Hagia Sophia, or lose yourself in the bustling Grand Bazaar. Don’t miss the chance to visit the extraordinary Underground Cistern – a truly unique sight! Take in the rich aromas of the Spice Bazaar or unwind with a scenic cruise down the Bosphorus.

With so much to see and do, Istanbul will leave you longing to return for more. Our local guide will gladly suggest even more must-see spots to make the most of your time here.

This morning, we say goodbye to the lively city of Istanbul as we set off by coach for Canakkale (about 330km away).

On our way, we’ll stop for an insightful excursion to Gallipoli – the renowned World War I battlefield where soldiers from Ireland, Britain, ANZAC, and Turkey fought so valiantly.

We’ll visit key sites along the way, including Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, Sulva Bay, and Greenhill Cemetery, each offering a poignant glimpse into this historic chapter.

Afterwards, we’ll take a ferry across the Dardanelles, arriving at our hotel in Canakkale by evening for a one-night stay. Dinner is included tonight – a wonderful end to an inspiring day.

After breakfast we transfer to Güre (approximately 116km)

During our transfer we experience more of Ancient Turkey with a half day excursion to the legendary city of Troy, best known for being the setting of the Trojan war, which occurred after Paris of Troy stole Helen away from her husband. Step back in time and discover the former acropolis and a replica of the Trojan wooden horse.

Later we transfer to our hotel in Güre 116km or Ayvalik 180km (pending on the chosen date of travel) in the evening, where we will spend the night.

We can relax for the rest of the evening and relax more in our new surroundings.

Dinner at our hotel is included tonight.

Let’s dive into even more amazing experiences! On our way to Kusadasi (about 296km), we’ll stop to explore Pergamum, celebrated as one of the ancient world’s most beautiful cities. We’ll hop on a cable car to reach the ancient Acropolis of Pergamum, where a guided tour will bring its fascinating history to life.

After a day packed with discovery, we’ll continue to our hotel in Kusadasi, arriving in the evening. Time to unpack, relax, and unwind after our adventure-filled day.

Dinner awaits! Tonight, and for the next two nights, we’ll enjoy dinner at our hotel. Let’s gather and make the most of our first night in Kusadasi!

Step back in time with a full-day guided excursion to some of ancient Turkey’s most fascinating sites!

Our adventure begins in Ephesus, once home to the magnificent Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the World. Today, Ephesus remains a sacred destination for many Christians, with connections to significant biblical figures like St Paul, St John, and the Virgin Mary.

We’ll continue our journey with visits to the Basilica of Saint John and the House of the Virgin Mary, believed by historians to be where she spent her later years (included).

After an inspiring day of discovery, enjoy a relaxing evening back at the hotel, free to explore at your own pace.

Today we have a well-earned day of leisure. Take a refreshing dip in the sea, shop till you drop in one of the many shops and markets or sit in a café to soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by. Savour the moments as we enjoy our last day in Turkey.

Our expert local guide will be happy to recommend places of interest to see and visit.

If you want to see more, perhaps enjoy an optional excursion on offer locally.

Embark on a full-day optional excursion to Pamukkale, featuring a visit to the ancient Necropolis of Hierapolis “Sacred city”. This site is one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Anatolia, with over 1,200 ancient graves. Explore the Roman Bath, the impressive Domitian and Byzantium Gates, and stroll along the main street of this historic city.

Enjoy some free time to further delve deeper into the history of the region by visiting the museum of the ancient city or the Martyrium of St. Philip the Apostle. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk along Pamukkale's famous shimmering white travertine terraces, a natural geological formation with its hot springs of water. Take in the beauty of this unique natural wonder.

Alternatively, during your free time, seize the opportunity to take a dip in the thermal waters of Cleopatra’s swimming pool. Adorned with ancient ruins, this pool is renowned for its rich minerals and warm, relaxing waters. (Please note that the entrance fee for Cleopatra’s swimming pool is not included.)

Please note: This tour is not recommended for those with mobility restrictions. 

Minimum numbers apply.

Today we say farewell to Kusadasi and our journey through Ancient Turkey.

We transfer to Izmir airport and depart on our flight to Cappadocia.

We have arrived!

Transfer from Cappadocia Airport to our hotel in Neveshir/ Urgup. Let’s settle in and relax more for the rest of our day. Dinner is included for the next three nights of our stay.

*Please note that your extension in Cappadocia is based on an individual rather than a group format.

Let’s uncover even more of this enchanting country with a full-day guided tour of Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscapes! Today, we’ll visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Goreme Open-Air Museum (included, excluding the Dark Church), a stunning complex of medieval churches carved into volcanic rock and adorned with beautiful frescoes.

Next, we’ll drive through Cappadocia’s iconic valleys to admire the famous fairy chimneys, a truly magical sight. On our way back to the hotel, we’ll stop in Avanos, renowned for its pottery-making traditions, where we’ll enjoy a fascinating pottery demonstration.

Enjoy your evening at Leisure after delving into the highlights of Cappadocia.

Today is yours to unwind and soak up the atmosphere after our whirlwind adventure through Türkiye! If you’re eager to explore further, there may be an optional excursion to discover even more of this captivating country.

Wine Tasting Excursion.

Discover the rich flavours of Cappadocia's renowned wines, nurtured by the region’s volcanic soil and abundant sunshine on an optional excursion. Known for producing exceptional grapes, Cappadocia is a must-visit for wine lovers.

Join us for a unique wine-tasting experience in a traditional cave setting, where you’ll sample a variety of local wines, including red, white, rosé, and organic options. This one to one-and-a-half-hour tasting is the perfect way to savour the region's authentic flavours and add a special touch to your trip. Don’t miss this delightful excursion!

Minimum numbers apply for this excursion to operate

Whirling Dervish Optional Excursion

Discover the Whirling Dervish Ceremony, inspired by the 13th-century mystic Rumi. This one-hour spiritual ritual, accompanied by traditional reed instruments, is a mesmerizing display of devotion. As the dervishes’ whirl, they symbolise a deep connection with God, humanity, and creation—raising one hand to receive blessings and the other to share them with the world.

Join this unique experience on an unforgettable excursion.

Minimum numbers apply for this excursion to operate

Today we say farewell to Cappadocia with fond memories of our journey through Turkey.

Transfer from our hotel to Nevsehir Airport or Kayseri Airport, depending on your chosen date, via Istanbul.