Your 5-day Turkey tour begins with a convenient pick-up from your central Istanbul hotel. Get acquainted with your group and guide, then get ready to venture to the Aegean Coast.
Day 1: Istanbul -- Gallipoli -- Çanakkale (D)Meet your guide and settle into your comfortable transportation, as you depart from Istanbul and head toward Gallipoli. Here, follow your guide to the battlefields where they will explain the relevant war history of this compelling region. Stop by Anzac Cove, the Nek, as well as Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials. Walk the lengths of the World War I era tunnels and trenches in this historic region.
At the end of the day, you will be transported to your hotel in the postcard seaside town, Çanakkale.
Overnight: 4-star Iris hotel or similar in Çanakkale
Day 2: Çanakkale – Troy -- Pergamum -- Kusadasi (B, D)Savor breakfast at your hotel in the morning, then freshen up for another full day of sightseeing. Turn back the hands of time when you arrive in Troy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains fascinating Greek and Turkish history that your guide will gladly explain to you.
Next, venture to the ancient Greek city of Pergamum. Marvel at this ancient Greek citadel, as you’ll have time to explore the grounds. Peruse the temples, library, ruins and old political and cultural centers.
Before sunset, check in to your comfortable Kusadasi hotel.
Overnight: 4-star Marina Hotel or similar in Kusadasi
Day 3: Kusadasi -- Ephesus -- Kusadasi (B, D)Once you’ve enjoyed your hotel breakfast, venture to Ephesus for an immersive day trip to this interesting ancient city. Learn about the Romans who once ruled this region, and walk among Roman thought-provoking ruins. Admire one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis.
Refuel with lunch, then take your time learning about the art of Turkish carpets, one of the country’s most prided crafts, at a nearby village. Then, enjoy the ride back to your Kusadasi hotel in time for dinner.
Overnight: 4-star Marina Hotel or similar in Kusadasi
Day 4: Kusadasi – Pamukkale – Hierapolis -- Pamukkale (B, D)After breakfast, journey to Pamukkale to where you will see the famous travertines: terraced limestone pooled with water.
Embark on a sightseeing tour of Hierapolis, an ancient city. Here you can see the Necropolis, which has been well preserved over the centuries, as well as the Basilica of St Philippe and a Greek-Roman theater.
Bring your swim suit for a dip in the hot springs, if you wish. Back in the Roman times, they were utilized for therapy. Journey back to Pamukkale and settle into your hotel. Enjoy dinner in the evening.
Overnight: 5-star Colossae hotel or similar in Pamukkale
Day 5: Pamukkale -- IstanbulOn the final day of your tour, voyage back to Istanbul. On your way, stop at Bursa to visit the famous Green Mosque and peruse a renowned silk bazaar. Upon arriving in Istanbul, you will be transferred to your hotel where your tour concludes.