Solo Traveller prices available on request
- Option to extend your journey from Kusadasi with transfers available to Bodrum, Marmaris and/or Fethiye, allowing you to continue exploring Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast with its beautiful beaches, charming seaside towns and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Istanbul Old City (3) | Canakkale (2) | Kusadasi (3)
Discover the wonders of Turkey on a fascinating journey from vibrant Istanbul along the country’s beautiful western and Turquoise Coast regions. Explore the treasures of Istanbul’s Old City, from magnificent mosques and grand palaces to bustling bazaars, before travelling to the historic shores of Gallipoli and the ANZAC battlefields. Continue south along Turkey’s scenic Aegean coastline to uncover the legendary ruins of Troy, the spectacular ancient cities of Pergamum and Ephesus, and the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. Combining rich history, coastal scenery, ancient civilisations and warm Turkish hospitality, this itinerary showcases some of Turkey’s most iconic and memorable destinations. Finish in the heart of the Turquoise Coast at Kusadasi or extend further south to Bodrum, Marmaris or Fethiye etc.
More than a tour, this program is a combination of flexible modules designed for the independent traveller. Mix and match, upgrade your accommodation, add extra nights or extra stops, if you are short on time, upgrade to private sightseeing and transfers … the options are endless, meaning you can design your perfect independent holiday to experience Turkey the way you want to.
- 24/7 local operator support in Turkey
- Discover the soul of Istanbul in the heart of its historic Ottoman treasures
- Honour the sacrifices at Gallipoli's hallowed grounds, a poignant tribute to valour
- Marvel at the dazzling white travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis
- Explore the time-honoured ruins of Ephesus, a testament to classical grandeur, one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
Day 1: Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey. On arrival at Istanbul International Airport, you will be met in the arrivals area by a representative of our local operator then transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the Old City where accommodation is reserved for three nights. Remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Istanbul (BL)
Day 3: Istanbul (B)
Day at leisure or optional Istanbul experiences.
Options (supplement applies):* Spice Market and Bosphorus cruise* Turkish Bath Experience * Whirling Dervishes Show
Day 4: Istanbul - Gallipoli - Canakkale (BL)
This morning you will be picked up from your Istanbul hotel between 6:30am and 7:00am and transferred by tourist bus to Eceabat. On arrival in Eceabat at approx. 12:30pm you will be met by the local guide and after lunch at a local restaurant, depart on a guided tour of Gallipoli. Visits will include Brighton Beach, Beach Cemetery, ANZAC Cove, Ariburnu Cemetery, ANZAC Commemorative Site, Mehmetcik Statue, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Johnston's Jolly (Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels), Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery, The Nek Cemetery and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial. Upon completion of the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.
Day 5: Canakkale (B)
Day 6: Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Kusadasi (BL)
Morning departure by tourist bus for a visit of Troy. Admire the ruins and a replica of the Trojan Horse, a wooden horse said to have been used during the Trojan War by the Greeks to enter the city of Troy and win the war. Continue across the Ida Mountains to arrive at Pergamum, the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty. Here you will visit the impressive Acropolis of Pergamum, perched on a high, steep-sided hill - one of the highest and most magnificent Acropolis in ancient history. Continue to Kusadasi for a three-night stay.
Day 7: Kusadasi - Ephesus - Kusadasi (BL)
Today journey to Ephesus, an extraordinary ancient city reflecting Hellenistic and Roman grandeur. Begin with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. This sacred site is revered by both Christians and Muslims. Every year, on August 15th, a ceremony is organized to commemorate Mary's Assumption. Next, explore the ancient city’s highlights, including the Odeon, Hadrian Temple, Celsius Library, and the grand Ephesus Theatre. The day concludes with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Kusadasi.
Day 8: Kusadasi (Pamukkale Day Tour) (BL)
Today, visit Pamukkale, known for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. After lunch in Pamukkale, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the well-preserved Necropolis, Roman Bath, and the Apollo Temple before walking along the natural thermal terraces. You’ll also have the option to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, a historic thermal bath. After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 9: Kusadasi - Istanbul (B)
This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Izmir airport for your flight to Istanbul Airport. End of arrangements.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 local operator support in Turkey
- 18-nights's hotel accommodation
- Breakfast daily at hotels
- 5 lunches
- Arrival and departure airport transfers by private vehicle
- Air-conditioned tourist bus Istanbul/Eceabat & Eceabat/Kusadasi
- Economy class domestic flight Izmir/Istanbul
- Sightseeing tours with professional English-speaking guides (small group or regular tours)
- Entrance fees
- Turkey Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Istanbul Old City
Superior Tourist Class: Arena Hotel
First Class: Celal Sultan
Deluxe Class: Sura Hagia Sophia -or- Vogue Supreme
Canakkale
Superior Tourist Class: Artur Hotel
First Class: Buyuk Hotel
Deluxe Class: Double Tree by Hilton
Kusadasi
Superior Tourist Class: Efe Boutique Hotel
First Class: La Vista Boutique Hotel & Spa
Deluxe Class: Elite World
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
