Day 1: Arrive Istanbul, Türkiye
Welcome to Istanbul! Upon your arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Once you have checked in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to relax after your journey or begin exploring this vibrant city at your own pace. We hope your first day in Türkiye is both comfortable and enjoyable.
NOTE: The included transfer is a group transfer and will be scheduled according to the arrival times of the majority of guests. If you arrive earlier and prefer not to wait, or if your flight arrives after the scheduled group transfer, you may arrange a private transfer (additional charges apply) or make your own way to the hotel.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 40km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 45min
MEALS: Nil
OVERNIGHT: Crowne Plaza Harbiye, Istanbul
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
Enjoy an unforgettable evening cruising along the Bosphorus Strait with a delicious local dinner and live entertainment. Experience a traditional Turkish night show featuring belly dancing and other cultural performances, along with limited local alcoholic drinks and unlimited soft drinks. Includes hotel pick up and drop off.
Turkish Night Show in Istanbul
Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant with a lively Turkish night show. Experience a range of cultural performances including belly dancing, along with limited local alcoholic drinks and unlimited soft drinks. Includes hotel pick up and drop off.
Day 2: Istanbul City Tour
After breakfast, depart for a guided exploration of Istanbul’s historic Old City. Begin at the Sultan Ahmet Centre, once the heart of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, known for its striking blue Iznik tiles and impressive six minarets. Then, continue to the Hippodrome, where ancient chariot races and public events once took place, and see monuments such as the Serpentine Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius.
Next, view the exterior of the magnificent Hagia Sophia (entrance not included), one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in the world. Continue with an exterior visit of Topkapi Palace (entrance not included), the former residence of Ottoman sultans. Afterwards, enjoy time at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with thousands of shops offering everything from jewellery to souvenirs.
After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 30km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 1hr
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Crowne Plaza Harbiye, Istanbul
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
Enjoy an unforgettable evening cruising along the Bosphorus Strait with a delicious local dinner and live entertainment. Experience a traditional Turkish night show featuring belly dancing and other cultural performances, along with limited local alcoholic drinks and unlimited soft drinks. Includes hotel pick up and drop off.
Turkish Night Show
Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant with a lively Turkish night show. Experience a range of cultural performances including belly dancing, along with limited local alcoholic drinks and unlimited soft drinks. Includes hotel pick up and drop off.
Day 3: Istanbul ~ Ankara
After breakfast, depart Istanbul and begin your journey inland towards Ankara, the capital of Turkiye. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive as you travel through changing landscapes from the coast to the central plains. This is a longer travel day, offering a great opportunity to take in the countryside along the way.
Upon arrival in Ankara, visit Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. This significant national site offers insight into the country’s modern history and is an important place of remembrance.
After your visit, continue to your hotel where you can relax and unwind after the day’s journey.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 450km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 6hr
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Newpark Hotel, Ankara
Day 4: Ankara ~ Cappadocia
After breakfast, depart Ankara and continue your journey towards the unique region of Cappadocia. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel through the Anatolian plains. Make a stop at the famous Salt Lake, the second largest lake in Turkiye, known for its striking white surface and surreal scenery, perfect for photos.
Continue your drive towards Cappadocia, a region renowned for its extraordinary rock formations and otherworldly landscapes. As you arrive, take in your first views of the famous fairy chimneys and valleys that make this area so unique.
After check-in, enjoy some time at leisure before dinner at your hotel.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 300km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4hr
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Perissia Hotel, Cappadocia
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
Turkish Night Show in Cappadocia
Enjoy an evening in a traditional cave restaurant with a lively Turkish night show. Experience a range of cultural performances including belly dancing, along with unlimited local alcoholic and soft drinks. Includes hotel pick up and drop off. Minimum 2 passengers required.
Sunset Jeep Safari Tour in Cappadocia
Enjoy an off road adventure through the stunning valleys of Cappadocia at sunset. Travel by jeep to explore unique landscapes and scenic viewpoints as the light changes across the region. The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including hotel pick up and drop off. Available on Day 4 or Day 5. Minimum 2 passengers required.
Sunset ATV Bike Tour in Cappadocia
Experience an exciting ATV ride through the heart of Cappadocia, exploring its valleys and dramatic landscapes from a different perspective. Ride your own ATV or share with another passenger as you discover the region off road. Children under 10 years are not permitted.
Day 5: Cappadocia Sightseeing
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Cappadocia, a region known for its unique landscapes and fascinating history. Start with a visit to Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, where the unusual rock formations resemble animals and natural shapes. Then, continue to the Goreme Open Air Museum, home to ancient rock cut churches and well preserved frescoes.
Next, travel to Avanos, a town famous for its pottery traditions dating back thousands of years. Here, you will have the opportunity to see local artisans at work and learn about traditional techniques. If time permits, there may also be visits to local workshops showcasing jewellery, onyx, or carpet weaving.
After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel where you can relax and enjoy dinner.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 80km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 1hr 30min
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Perissia Hotel, Cappadocia
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
Turkish Night Show in Cappadocia
Enjoy an evening in a traditional cave restaurant with a lively Turkish night show. Experience a range of cultural performances including belly dancing, along with unlimited local alcoholic and soft drinks. Includes hotel pick up and drop off. Minimum 2 passengers required.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Goreme Valley
Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys and unique landscapes. The full experience takes approximately three hours, including hotel pick up and drop off, a safety briefing, and a one hour flight. Children under 6 years are not permitted.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Soganli Valley
Enjoy a scenic sunrise hot air balloon flight over the stunning Soganli Valley, taking in Cappadocia’s unique rock formations from above. The experience lasts approximately three hours, including hotel pick up and drop off, a safety briefing, and a one hour flight. Children under 6 years are not permitted.
Sunset Jeep Safari Tour in Cappadocia
Enjoy an off road adventure through the stunning valleys of Cappadocia at sunset. Travel by jeep to explore unique landscapes and scenic viewpoints as the light changes across the region. The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including hotel pick up and drop off. Available on Day 4 or Day 5. Minimum 2 passengers required.
Sunset ATV Bike Tour in Cappadocia
Experience an exciting ATV ride through the heart of Cappadocia, exploring its valleys and dramatic landscapes from a different perspective. Ride your own ATV or share with another passenger as you discover the region off road. Children under 10 years are not permitted.
Day 6: Cappadocia ~ Konya ~ Pamukkale
After breakfast, depart Cappadocia and begin your journey towards Pamukkale. Today is a longer travel day, so sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as you pass through central Turkiye. Along the way, stop in Konya to visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana, one of the country’s most important spiritual sites and home of the famous Whirling Dervishes.
Continue your journey through the Anatolian countryside towards Pamukkale. As you travel, take in the wide open landscapes and traditional towns that showcase a different side of Turkiye. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended for today’s drive.
By evening, arrive in Pamukkale and check in to your hotel. Enjoy dinner and relax after a full day on the road.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 620km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 9hr
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Pam Thermal Hotel, Pamukkale
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Goreme Valley
Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys and unique landscapes. The full experience takes approximately three hours, including hotel pick up and drop off, a safety briefing, and a one hour flight. Children under 6 years are not permitted.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Soganli Valley
Enjoy a scenic sunrise hot air balloon flight over the stunning Soganli Valley, taking in Cappadocia’s unique rock formations from above. The experience lasts approximately three hours, including hotel pick up and drop off, a safety briefing, and a one hour flight. Children under 6 years are not permitted.
Day 7: Pamukkale ~ Kusadasi
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Pamukkale, one of Türkiye’s most unique natural sites. Known as the “Cotton Castle,” Pamukkale features stunning white terraces formed by mineral rich thermal waters. Take time to walk along these natural formations and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Continue your visit to the ancient city of Hierapolis, where you can explore the impressive ruins including the Necropolis, one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Anatolia. Afterwards, there may be an opportunity to visit a local textile outlet, known for its quality fabrics and craftsmanship.
Later in the day, depart for Kusadasi, a popular coastal town along the Aegean Sea. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 200km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 3hr
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Signature Blue Hotel, Kusadasi
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS
Paragliding Tour in Pamukkale
Take to the skies with an unforgettable paragliding experience over the ancient city of Hierapolis and the famous white terraces of Pamukkale. Enjoy incredible bird’s eye views with a professional tandem pilot as you glide over this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Pamukkale
Experience a magical sunrise hot air balloon flight over Pamukkale’s stunning white terraces and surrounding landscapes. The experience includes hotel pick up, a safety briefing, and a scenic flight following the natural wind paths. Children under 6 years are not permitted.
Day 8: Kusadasi ~ Ephesus ~ Sirince ~ Kusadasi
After breakfast, begin your exploration of the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best preserved classical cities in the world. Walk through remarkable ruins including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Hadrian, while learning about the history of this once thriving Roman city.
Afterwards, visit the charming village of Sirince, set on a hillside and known for its traditional houses, local crafts, and scenic views. Enjoy some free time to wander through the village and take in its relaxed atmosphere. There may also be a visit to a leather workshop, where you can learn about local craftsmanship.
After a full day of sightseeing, return to Kusadasi and enjoy the evening at leisure.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 80km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 1hr 30min
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Signature Blue Hotel, Kusadasi
Day 9: Kusadasi ~ Pergamon ~ Troy ~ Canakkale
After breakfast, depart Kusadasi and begin your journey north towards Canakkale. Along the way, stop at Pergamon, one of the great ancient cities of the classical world. Here, explore the impressive Acropolis, which once stood as the political and cultural heart of the city. You will also see the remains of the Altar of Zeus and the famous Library of Pergamon, which once rivalled Alexandria in importance.
Continue your journey through the region, with a stop to visit a local olive oil and natural products store, before heading to the legendary city of Troy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and is deeply connected to both myth and history. Explore the ruins, see the replica Trojan Horse, and walk beside the ancient defensive walls that once protected the city.
By evening, arrive in Canakkale and check in to your hotel. Enjoy dinner and relax after a full day of sightseeing and travel.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 430km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 7hr
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Remida Hotel, Canakkale
Day 10: Canakkale ~ Gallipoli ~ Istanbul
After breakfast, depart Canakkale and travel towards the Gallipoli Peninsula, a place of deep historical significance, especially for Australian and New Zealand travellers. Visit important World War I battle sites including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, Ariburnu Cemetery, Beach Cemetery, the 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery, and the Mehmetcik Statue. As you explore, take in both the moving history and the beautiful coastal views across the Aegean Sea.
After your visit, continue your journey towards Istanbul, crossing the Dardanelles by ferry. This famous waterway marks the boundary between Europe and Asia and adds another memorable moment to your day. Sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as you make your way back to Turkiye’s vibrant cultural capital.
By late afternoon or early evening, arrive in Istanbul and check in to your hotel for your final night.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 320km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 6hr 30min
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Crowne Plaza Harbiye, Istanbul
Day 11: Depart Istanbul
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Istanbul before your transfer to the airport. Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time for last minute shopping or a short walk through the city. Your transfer will then take you to back to the airport, marking the end of your Türkiye group tour.
NOTE: The included transfer is a group departure transfer and will be scheduled based on the flight times of the majority of guests. If your flight departs earlier and you prefer not to wait, or if your flight departs outside the scheduled transfer time, you may arrange a private transfer (additional charges apply) or make your own way to the airport.
APPROXIMATE DRIVING DISTANCE: 40km
APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 45min
MEALS: Breakfast