Wonders of Turkey (Classic, With Anzac, 11 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the captivating landscapes and rich history of Turkey. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene terraces of Pamukkale, this journey offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and relaxation. Discover ancient ruins, participate in meaningful cultural experiences, and savor delicious local cuisine. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an enriching experience as you traverse Turkey's most iconic destinations. Whether you're exploring the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul or the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, each day brings new adventures and unforgettable memories. Join us for a journey that captures the essence of Turkey's diverse heritage and natural beauty.
Included
6 Dinner (D)
10 Breakfast (B)
Istanbul: Begin your travels savouring traditional flavours over dinner at a local restaurant.
Izmir: Head to a local organic farm where you will be treated to a Farm-to-Table lunch. Enjoy the breathtaking views during your meal made from seasonal crops grown on site.
Cappadocia: Watch a spectacular Sema performance of Whirling Dervishes and discover the flavours of Cappadocia as you indulge in a regional dinner of colourful dishes.
Istanbul: Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
3 nights at Grand Hyatt Istanbul or similar
2 nights at Kolin Hotel, Çanakkale or similar
1 night at Charisma De Luxe Hotel, Kusadasi or similar
1 night at Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale or similar
2 nights at Alfina Cave Hotel Cappadocia or similar
1 night at Hilton SA, Ankara or similar
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Istanbul: An immersive digital experience through the iconic structure's rich past, showcasing its transformation from a Byzantine cathedral to an Ottoman mosque and now a museum, with captivating exhibits and architectural wonders.
Istanbul: Journey through time with a visit to Hagia Sophia, take a unique glimpse into the complex layers of Istanbul's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Cappadocia: Join a Cappadocian local, who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house to learn more about their unique way of life.
Ayvalik: Visit the Copmadam workshop, where one-of-a-kind items are made from recycled packaging, creating employment opportunities for local women. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Göreme: Meet the members of Göreme Women’s Cooperative, a collective of local women determined to expand employment opportunities in the region. Through the production and sale of handicrafts and traditional delicacies like jams and sweets, they are contributing to the region’s cultural vibrancy. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Gallipoli: Visit the Gallipoli Peninsula and attend the moving Dawn Service remembering, honouring and paying respect to the fallen fighting in World War I.
Troy: Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.
Pamukkale: See the cascading Cotton Castle of milky white travertine pools and the ancient ruin of Hierapolis.
Konya: Accompanied by your Local Expert, visit the beautiful Mevlana Tekke museum for an insight into the mystic Whirling Dervishes. See the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret.
Konya: Visit a well preserved Seljuk Caravanserai.
Göreme: With your Local Expert, explore the underground cities, rock-cut churches, fairy-tale chimneys and the Pasabag Valley.
Visit the narrow passages and interconnecting rooms of this Stone Age underground city dug out from the hills and built to block invaders and defend against attacks.
Learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos.
Ankara: Discover the mysterious Hittite civilisation and visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk.
Istanbul: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, where you'll pass Ottoman palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
Istanbul: Visit the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. With your Local Expert, gain insight into the lives of the Ottoman Sultans during a visit to the fabulous Topkapi Palace. Then stroll through the Grand Bazaar.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting city of Istanbul, where your Turkish adventure begins. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Take some time to unwind and get comfortable in your new surroundings. In the evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers over a delightful dinner, setting the stage for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Istanbul to Çanakkale via Gallipoli
- Istanbul
- Çanakkale
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- Akbas cemetary
- Lone Pine
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Embark on a scenic journey along the Sea of Marmara's coastline, heading towards the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. Here, delve into the poignant history of World War I as you visit Anzac Cove and the Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, cross the Dardanelles Strait to reach Çanakkale, where you'll spend the night. This city, known for its proximity to the ancient city of Troy, offers a rich tapestry of history and culture.
Day 3 – Day 3: Dawn Service and Reflection
- Çanakkale
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- Akbas cemetary
- Lone Pine
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Rise early to participate in the annual Dawn Service, a moving tribute to the soldiers who fought at Gallipoli. Join dignitaries and military personnel in honoring their sacrifice. Afterward, visit the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Cemeteries to pay your respects and learn more about the historical events. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying the amenities at your hotel or exploring the local area.
Day 4 – Day 4: Çanakkale to Kusadasi via Izmir
- Çanakkale
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- Cermodern
- İzmir Wildlife Park
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Experience a meaningful visit to Copmadam, a women's cooperative dedicated to empowering women through creative recycling. Continue to Izmir for a delightful Farm-to-Table lunch at Nif Bağları, a family-owned winery. Explore the lush vineyards before proceeding to the coastal resort town of Kusadasi, where you'll relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Day 5 – Day 5: Kusadasi to Pamukkale
- Selçuk
- Pamukkale
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- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Pamukkale Turkey
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Journey to the breathtaking Pamukkale, renowned for its stunning white terraces and mineral-rich thermal waters. Explore the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis, marveling at its well-preserved theater and travertine pools. Return to your hotel, the luxurious Doğa Thermal Health & Spa (or similar), and indulge in the rejuvenating thermal pools and spa facilities.
Day 6 – Day 6: Pamukkale to Urgup via Konya
- Konya
- Pamukkale
- Urgup
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- Sille Baraj Parkı
- Mevlâna Museum
- Karatay Madrasah
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Travel to Konya, the spiritual heart of the Whirling Dervishes. Visit the Mevlana Tekke Museum with its iconic turquoise dome, and explore the Karatay Madrasa and Ince Minaret, both showcasing exquisite Seljuk architecture. Continue to Urgup in the captivating region of Cappadocia, where you'll stay at the unique Alfina Cave Hotel Cappadocia (or similar), nestled in ancient cave dwellings.
Day 7 – Day 7: Discovering Cappadocia
- Urgup
- Göreme
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- Pigeon Valley
- Özkonak
- Güray Müze
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Explore the enchanting town of Göreme, famous for its rock-hewn churches adorned with ancient frescoes. Visit the Pasabag Valley, where you'll encounter the whimsical 'fairy chimneys' and troglodyte dwellings. Delve into the mysterious Özkonak Underground City, wandering through its labyrinthine tunnels. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner and witness a mesmerizing performance of the Whirling Dervishes.
Day 8 – Day 8: Cappadocia to Ankara
- Ankara
- Göreme
- Avanos
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- Keşlik Manastırı
- Anıtkabir
- Ankara Vakıf Museum
- Çat Kasabası
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Art enthusiasts will delight in a visit to Avanos, renowned for its exquisite pottery. En route to Ankara, stop at a well-preserved Seljuk Caravanserai, a testament to the region's rich history. In Ankara, explore the Hittite Museum and pay homage at Anit Kabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk, Turkey's revered leader. Unwind at your hotel, perhaps indulging in the spa facilities.
Day 9 – Day 9: Ankara to Istanbul
- Ankara
- Istanbul
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- İstanbul Boğazı
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Return to the vibrant city of Istanbul, where east meets west in a harmonious blend of cultures. Embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus, marveling at the majestic Ottoman palaces and fortresses that line the shores. The evening is yours to explore or relax, with your Travel Director available to recommend dining options.
Day 10 – Day 10: Exploring Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Irene
- Topkapı Palace
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Immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich history with visits to the iconic Blue Mosque and the ancient Hippodrome. Discover the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, choosing between a digital experience or exploring its historic grandeur. Conclude your day at the Topkapi Palace, overlooking the Bosphorus. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, sharing memories with your fellow travelers.
Day 11 – Day 11: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
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As your unforgettable Turkish adventure concludes, bid farewell to newfound friends. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey. If you're extending your stay in Istanbul, your Travel Director will be happy to offer recommendations for further exploration.
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