Essential Turkey (5 Star Hotels)

Welcome to Turkey! Upon arrival at Istanbul's airport, look for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. At 7:00 PM, meet your group and guide in the hotel lobby for an informal gathering. Until then, explore Istanbul by climbing the Galata Tower for panoramic views or shopping at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your fellow travelers.

After breakfast, delve into the enchanting old town of Istanbul. Wander through the historic heart of the city, visiting the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon, consider an optional cruise down the Bosphorus River to admire the city's skyline. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and explore the city's rich history and culture.

Today, relax on the coach as we travel through Turkey's stunning landscapes, passing small towns and villages. We will drive through Ankara, the capital city, before arriving in Cappadocia. In the afternoon, explore the Derinkuyu Underground City, a fascinating subterranean complex. End the day with an optional traditional Turkish bath experience. Enjoy breakfast and dinner at the hotel.

Start your day early with an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's breathtaking landscapes. After breakfast, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Göreme, including the Göreme Open Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, and Cavusin. In the evening, enjoy an optional Turkish Night Show. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Travel to Konya, the home of the famous whirling dervishes. En route, stop at Devrent Valley, known for its unique rock formations and Byzantine-era dwellings. Spend the night in Konya, reflecting on the day's discoveries. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Immerse yourself in Turkish culture, starting with the 8-century-old Karatay Madrasa and the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the famous poet and theologian Rumi. Later, travel to Pamukkale, known for its stunning white terraces. Enjoy dinner at the hotel. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Capture the beauty of Pamukkale's white terraces and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis. Later, visit the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus, known for its historical significance and the Temple of Artemis. Overnight in the seaside town of Kusadasi. Breakfast and dinner are included.

After breakfast, depart for the ancient city of Troy. Explore the ruins and archaeological site, including the famous wooden horse. Spend the night in Canakkale, where you can relax and discover the town. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Visit the shores of Gallipoli, significant for Australians and New Zealanders. Pay your respects at ANZAC Cove, Chunuk Bair, and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, drive back to Istanbul. Breakfast is included.

Conclude your journey with a final breakfast in Istanbul. Say goodbye to your new friends and check out of the hotel by 11:00 AM. Breakfast is included.