Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul, Türkiye! (Friday)
Welcome to Istanbul! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted by your local tour representative who will assist with your group transfer to the hotel. After checking in, take some time to settle in and enjoy the rest of the day exploring at your own pace. You might like to wander through the nearby streets, relax at a café, or simply unwind after your flight.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Ramada by Wyndham Taksimkent, Istanbul
Day 2: Istanbul ~ City Tour
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel between 8:00 am and 9:30 am to begin your full-day city tour. Start with a visit to the magnificent Sultanahmet Imperial Mosque, built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet. Known as the Blue Mosque, its stunning interior is decorated with thousands of blue Iznik tiles. From here, continue to the Hippodrome, once the heart of Byzantine social life and home to grand chariot races and celebrations. You’ll see the famed Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine that still stand today.
In the afternoon, explore the lively Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, where you can browse hundreds of shops for Turkish crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs. Afterwards, visit the impressive Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans and now a fascinating museum displaying imperial treasures and artefacts.
NOTE: The order and timings of the city tour may vary.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Ramada by Wyndham Taksimkent, Istanbul
Day 3: Istanbul ~ Gallipoli ~ Çanakkale
After an early start, you’ll depart Istanbul around 6:30 am for your journey to Gallipoli. Enjoy a short morning tea break along the way before arriving at Gallipoli around midday. Upon arrival, take a relaxing lunch break before beginning your guided tour of the historic battlefields.
Your first stop is the Gabatepe Museum, which offers insightful exhibits about the Gallipoli Campaign. Continue to the Ariburnu Cemetery and Anzac Cove, where the ANZAC troops first landed in 1915. These are among the most significant sites of the campaign. The tour then visits other notable locations including the Beach Cemetery, Shrapnel Valley, and Plugges Plateau, each with their own poignant stories from the war.
After exploring the battlefields, you’ll travel to your hotel in Çanakkale for an overnight stay.
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 270km
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 4hr 00min
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Iris Hotel, Çanakkale
Day 4: Çanakkale ~ Troy ~ Pergamon ~ Kusadasi
After breakfast, depart at 8:30 am for the short drive to the ancient city of Troy, one of Türkiye’s most legendary archaeological sites. Discover the layers of civilisation that once stood here, including ancient fortifications, temples, and the replica of the famous Trojan Horse that symbolises the epic tale of Helen of Troy and the Trojan War. Learn about the city’s rich history as revealed through centuries of excavations uncovering walls, gates, and artefacts dating back to the Bronze Age.
After exploring Troy, continue your journey with a three-hour drive to Pergamon, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its grand acropolis overlooking the modern town of Bergama. After a lunch break around 1:00 pm, visit the impressive archaeological remains including ancient temples, theatres, and the steeply terraced city layout that once made Pergamon a major cultural and political hub. Here you’ll also can visit a local jewellery centre, famous for its exquisite silver and precious stones.
In the evening, arrive in the coastal town of Kusadasi, known for its beautiful beaches, lively markets, and seaside charm. Check in to your hotel and unwind after a full day of exploration.
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 430km
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 6hr 30min
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Ladies Beach Suite Hotel, Kusadasi
Day 5: Kusadasi ~ Ephesus Full Day Tour
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel at around 9:00 am for a fully guided tour of one of the world’s most iconic ancient cities. Begin your day at Ephesus, an exceptionally well-preserved classical city, famed for its grand avenues, temples, and amphitheatres. As you explore, picture the ancient Greeks and Romans who once walked these streets.
Next, visit the remarkable Temple of Artemis, once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only fragments remain, you’ll learn about its impressive size and the role it played as a centre for worship, festivals, and trade. Continue to see the beautiful Isa Bey Mosque, a striking example of Seljuk architecture, and visit the Virgin Mary Church, considered one of Christianity’s most significant sites.
After returning to your hotel, your evening is free to discover the many local dining options and vibrant atmosphere in Kusadasi at your leisure.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Ladies Beach Suite Hotel, Kusadasi
Day 6: Kusadasi ~ Pamukkale
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel at about 9:00 am for the drive to Pamukkale. Upon arrival around midday, check in at your hotel and enjoy lunch before heading out to explore one of Türkiye’s most unique natural wonders.
In the afternoon, visit the famous calcium terraces of Pamukkale, also known as the “cotton castle”, where bright white mineral-rich waters have formed dramatic travertine pools on the hillside. Wander through this spectacular landscape and discover the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient spa city that has attracted visitors for centuries. You’ll also have the option to relax in the warm natural spring waters – a truly memorable experience.
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 200km
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 2hr 30min
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Pam Thermal Hotel, Pamukkale
Day 7: Pamukkale ~ Cappadocia
After breakfast, set off for Cappadocia with a private transfer through the scenic Turkish countryside. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to settle in. The rest of the evening is yours to relax and unwind or start exploring the unique landscapes and charming local streets of Cappadocia at your own pace.
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 630km
APPROXIMATE TRAVEL DISTANCE: 8hr 00min
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Dedeli Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Day 8: Cappadocia ~ Full Day Tour
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be collected for a full-day guided tour exploring the fascinating landscapes and heritage of northern Cappadocia. Begin with a visit to Devrent Valley, also known as “Imagination Valley”, where wind and water erosion have sculpted the soft volcanic rock into extraordinary shapes that resemble animals and mythical figures. This surreal valley offers endless photo opportunities and captures the true essence of Cappadocia’s dreamlike scenery.
Continue to the charming village of Avanos, famous for its traditional pottery workshops. Here, you’ll watch a demonstration by local artisans and have the chance to try your hand at shaping clay using techniques passed down since Hittite times—a creative and memorable cultural experience.
Afterwards, visit the breathtaking Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock-carved churches, chapels, and monasteries decorated with vivid Byzantine frescoes. Learn about the early Christian communities who sought refuge in these volcanic caves and left behind art that still endures today.
At the end of the day, return to your hotel and enjoy your evening at leisure to relax or explore the magical night views of Cappadocia.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Dedeli Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Day 9: Cappadocia ~ Istanbul
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel and take some time to reflect on your Cappadocia adventure prior to check-out. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel where you can relax and make the most of your last evening in Türkiye.
NOTE: : Depending on the timing of your domestic flight, you may stay at an airport hotel tonight in preparation for your international flight on Day 10.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Ramada by Wyndham Taksimkent, Istanbul
Day 10: Depart Istanbul ~ Arrive Cairo, Egypt (Sunday)
After breakfast and check-out this morning, you’ll be transferred to Istanbul International Airport for your onward flight to Cairo, Egypt. Upon arrival in Cairo, a local tour representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Once checked in, the rest of your day is free to relax or start exploring Cairo at your own pace.
MEALS: None
OVERNIGHT: Barcelo Pyramids, Cairo
Day 11: Cairo ~ Luxor ~ Embark Cruise ~ Karnak & Luxor Temples
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll be transferred to Cairo Airport for your short flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, meet your local representative and begin your exploration with a visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple complex. Known to the ancient Egyptians as Ipet-Sut, meaning “The Most Select of Places”, Karnak was the principal temple of Thebes and one of the most impressive religious complexes ever constructed. Built and expanded over nearly 2,000 years, it served as the centre of worship for the god Amun and was renowned for its wealth, towering columns, and monumental gates.
After your visit, transfer to the Hapi 5 Nile Cruise for embarkation and enjoy lunch on board. Relax and take in the beautiful scenery along the Nile before continuing your afternoon sightseeing.
Later, visit the stunning Luxor Temple, dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship and believed to have hosted coronation ceremonies for many pharaohs, including Alexander the Great. Constructed in the 14th century BCE by Pharaoh Amenhotep III and expanded by Ramses II, the temple features grand courtyards, colossal statues, and intricately carved reliefs that tell timeless stories of ancient Egypt.
Return to the cruise for dinner and your first overnight stay aboard as you begin your journey along the majestic Nile River.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hapi 5 Nile Cruise
Day 12: The West Bank
Enjoy breakfast on board before you are picked up to explore the remarkable sites of the West Bank of Luxor. Begin with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground chosen for its special location on the west side of the Nile. In ancient Egyptian belief, the west symbolised the setting sun, death, and rebirth, so many cemeteries were placed here to honour this spiritual journey.
Next, visit the stunning mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. This temple at Deir al-Bahari is built against sheer cliffs and steps up through three terraces, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Dedicated to the goddess Hathor, who was thought to nurture every king including the god Horus, Hatshepsut’s temple is rich in history and adorned with detailed reliefs that celebrate her divine reign and trade expeditions.
Lunch will be served back on board the cruise as you sail onwards to Esna. Upon arrival, pass through the Esna Lock before continuing to Edfu. Enjoy dinner and spend the night aboard the cruise ship.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Hapi 5 Nile Cruise
Day 13: Edfou Temple & Kom Ombo Temple
After breakfast on board, set out to visit the Temple of Edfu, one of Egypt’s best preserved ancient shrines. Built during the Ptolemaic Kingdom between 237 and 57 BC, the temple is dedicated to the falcon god Horus and features towering pylons, grand courtyards, and halls adorned with detailed reliefs. The inscriptions here provide valuable insights into ancient Egyptian language, legends and religious rituals, including dramatic scenes of the legendary conflict between Horus and Seth. The temple’s architecture and decorations stand as some of the finest examples of classical Egyptian design, preserved under sand for centuries and only uncovered in the 19th century.
Return to the cruise for lunch as you sail towards Kom Ombo. On arrival, visit the unique Kom Ombo Temple, famous for its perfectly symmetrical ‘double’ layout. Two parallel temples stand side by side, one devoted to Sobek—the crocodile god, creator and symbol of fertility—and the other to Haroeris (Horus the Elder), along with sanctuaries to deities including Hathor and Khonsu. The temple’s ingenious design meant that courts, halls, and sanctuaries were duplicated for each set of gods, making it a truly fascinating site to explore.
Return to your Nile cruise and continue sailing to Aswan. Dinner and your overnight stay are on board.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hapi 5 Nile Cruise
Day 14: Aswan ~ Philae Temple
Begin the day with breakfast on board before heading out to visit the famous Aswan High Dam—a modern engineering marvel that has shaped Egypt’s landscape. Continue to the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis on an island in the Nile. This temple was one of the last ancient Egyptian temples to remain active, with worship continuing until the 6th century AD under Emperor Justinian I. Philae is also the site of Egypt’s last known hieroglyphic inscription, left by a priest of Isis in 394 AD. During later centuries, the temple was converted into a church, and many ancient inscriptions were defaced, but the grandeur and serenity of the site remain today. The entire complex was famously relocated to higher ground on Agilkia Island in a dramatic rescue operation after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Return to your ship for lunch on board. In the late afternoon, enjoy a traditional felucca boat trip to take in the serene beauty of Aswan from the water and watch the sunset over the Nile. Afterwards, return to your cruise for dinner and enjoy your final night on board.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hapi 5 Nile Cruise
Day 15: Aswan ~ Cairo ~ Pyramids, Sphinx & Egyptian Museum
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your morning flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, head straight to the iconic Giza Plateau to marvel at the incredible Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. The largest pyramid, Khufu (Cheops), was constructed from over 2.5 million limestone blocks weighing around 6 million tonnes—a staggering achievement considering the absence of modern machinery.
Visit a local Papyrus Institute where you can learn about the ancient art of papyrus-making and enjoy some free time for shopping. Your day continues with a memorable visit to the Egyptian Museum, home to the world’s richest collection of antiquities. Spend two hours exploring with your guide, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun and the famous golden death mask.
In the afternoon, explore Khan Khalili Market, Cairo’s bustling historic bazaar, perfect for picking up last-minute souvenirs and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Finally, transfer to your hotel for your overnight stay.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Barcelo Pyramids, Cairo
Day 16: End of Tour ~ Depart Cairo
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Cairo International Airport for your final departure. Be sure to arrive at least three hours before your scheduled flight to allow time for check-in, security, and passport control procedures. Once through the formalities, you can relax in the departure terminal, browse duty-free shops, or enjoy a coffee before boarding your flight.
Depart with wonderful memories of your journey through Türkiye and Egypt, and the many ancient wonders and cultural treasures you’ve experienced with MyHoliday2.
MEALS: Breakfast