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Essential Turkey

Essential Turkey tour combines history, culture, wonders and natural phenomena.
Discover the vibrant culture and welcoming tradition together with countless unique travel experiences. Roam the incredible palaces, bazaars and mosques of Istanbul before cruising right between Europe and Asia. Then journey into the bizarre as you explore other-worldly Cappadocia and balloon over fairy-chimneys. Walk among the impressive ancient wonders of Pergamum & Ephesus and the natural treasures of Pamukkale. Pay your respects for the fallen at the shores of Gallipoli before returning to Istanbul.

Duration

Destination

Start/Ends in

10 Days

Turkey

Istanbul / Istanbul

Hotels

Group Size

Age Requirement

5 Star

12-42 People

18+

Trip Rating

Trip Theme

Departs

4.8

366 reviews

Classic,Overland

All Year Round

Why You’ll Love This Tour

  • Feel the beating heart of Istanbul from your hotel in the old town beside monumental landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia. Join an optional Bosphorus Cruise to watch Europe and Asia unfold on your sides.
  • Stay in hand-picked, centrally located and authentic 5-star hotels and ride in private modern coaches.
  • Travel with an expert local guide throughout your trip, get the best introduction and insights into Turkish culture.
  • Visit the shores of Gallipoli to honour the fallen during one of the greatest battles of WWI & tour famous ancient cities in Anatolia; Troy and Cappadocia.
  • Explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus delving into ancient times and soak in the gorgeous Library of Celsus.
  • Walk among cottonlike pools of travertine in Pamukkale and soak in the magical landscape of Cappadocia with options for an unforgettable hot-air ballooning adventure and Turkish Bath.
  • No night drives; however some long rides are required to cover all these incredible places. You may check other tour options in Turkey for alternative routes including flights.
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Sights Visited on This Tour

Blue Mosque

The exterior features a beautiful cascade of domes and six minarets and blue Iznik tiles adorn the interior giving the building its unofficial but commonly used name.

Cappadocia

A region of exceptional natural and man-made wonders. Take the chance to discover underground cities carved into rock, fairy chimneys and many more...

Ephesus

The best preserved ancient town in Turkey, Ephesus embarks you on a journey to ancient times while roaming the streets.Celcius Library is the most important remains of it.

Gallipoli

Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, Anzac Cove, Johnston's Jolly, North Beach, Ari Burnu, Hell Spit, Brighton Beach, Shrapnel Valley, Artillery Raod, Quinn's Road and more…

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia, among the Seven Wonders of the World, awaits you with all its magnificence. The hundreds of years old structure will fascinate you on sight.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here.

Pamukkale

Home of the world-famous travertines, the cotton castle. You will witness the unusual and beautiful scenery just near the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Topkapi Palace

Home of the Sultans, heart of the Ottoman Empire… Roam through the royal palace of the Ottomans and follow their footsteps to see their most valued treasures.

Troy

Troy is the name of the Bronze Age city attacked in the Trojan War. The legendary city where you can outline layers of ruins of cities built on top of each other...

Itinerary

Itinerary

Welcome to Turkey! At the Istanbul airport terminal keep your eyes peeled for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Included Activities
    Group Dinner

After breakfast, we begin to explore the magical old town of Istanbul. Stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
    Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
    Sightseeing of Topkapi Palace Museum
  • Optional Activities
    Bosphorus Boat Cruise – 15 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Blue Mosque – Free
    Hagia Sophia – 25 EUR
    Topkapi Palace Museum – 2000 TL

Today we sit back and relax in the coach. Watch the amazing Turkish scenery unfold before us and see small towns and villages as we pass on by. We will drive through the capital city of Ankara before we reach Cappadocia. In the afternoon, we will visit Derinkuyu Underground City, a city complete with a church, wells, food stores, and even stables which is all located 60m under the ground. End the day with an optional traditional Hamman (Turkish bath).

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Derinkuyu Underground City
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Bath Experience – 30 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Derinkuyu Underground City – 13 EUR

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Göreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Göreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. Tonight, get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish Night.

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
    Sightseeing of Cavusin
    Sightseeing of Pigeon Valley
    Sightseeing of Uchisar
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Night Show – 50 EUR
    Hot Air Balooning – 290 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Goreme Open Air Museum – 20 EUR

It’s time to hit the road to Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes – members of the Sufism order. Along the way we will stop at Devrent Valley, a unique honeycombed canyon with rock-cut underground dwellings and churches from the Byzantine period. You can relax and replay cherished moments of discovery at our overnight stay in Konya.

  • Accommodation
    Novotel Konya Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Devrent Valley

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana, also globally known as Rumi. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century, whose teachings of understanding and acceptance have lived on to this day. From cultural to natural wonders, we travel towards to the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant..

  • Accommodation
    Hierapark Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Karatay Madrasa – 3 EUR
    Mevlana Museum Visit

Get your cameras ready, as it is time to visit Pamukkale, or ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site that contains hot springs and travertine, giving the appearance of terraces made by carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white castle and people have bathed in its pools for thousands of years. Our next stop is the spectacular, well preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was cited in the book of Revelations, and historians believe the Gospel of John was written here. Famed for the Temple of Artemis which was completed around 550 BC and is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. We will sleep overnight in the seaside town of Kusadasi.

  • Accommodation
    Signature Blue Resort – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Pamukkale White Terraces
    Sightseeing of Ephesus Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Pamukkale White Terraces – 30 EUR
    Ephesus Ancient City – 40 EUR

After breakfast we will depart for ancient city of Troy. You may of heard of Troy from Greek mythology or maybe just watched the Brad Pitt movie, but now you will visit the ruins and archaeological site of the city of Troy, and of course the famous wooden horse. We will stay overnight in Canakkale. You will have the evening to relax and discover the town.

  • Accommodation
    Kolin Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Troy Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Troy Ancient City – 27 EUR

Today we depart for the shores of Gallipoli. A place of important significance for Aussies and Kiwis, we will visit the beach and cemeteries at ANZAC Cove, before paying our respects at memorial sites Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, we will drive back to where our adventure began, Istanbul.

  • Accommodation
    Legacy Ottoman Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Anzac Cove
    Sightseeing of Beach Cemetery
    Sightseeing of Lone Pine
    Sightseeing of Chunuk Bair
    Sightseeing of War Trenches

Our trip will end in Istanbul after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

  • Meals Included
    Breakfast

Welcome to Turkey! At the Istanbul airport terminal keep your eyes peeled for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Included Activities
    Group Dinner

After breakfast, we begin to explore the magical old town of Istanbul. Stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
    Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
    Sightseeing of Topkapi Palace Museum
  • Optional Activities
    Bosphorus Boat Cruise – EUR 10
  • Entrance Fees
    Blue Mosque – Free
    Hagia Sophia – Free
    Topkapi Palace Museum – 750 TL

Today we sit back and relax in the coach. Watch the amazing Turkish scenery unfold before us and see small towns and villages as we pass on by. We will drive through the capital city of Ankara before we reach Cappadocia. In the afternoon, we will visit Derinkuyu Underground City, a city complete with a church, wells, food stores, and even stables which is all located 60m under the ground. End the day with an optional traditional Hamman (Turkish bath).

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Derinkuyu Underground City
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Bath Experience – 30 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Derinkuyu Underground City – 300 TL

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Göreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Göreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. Tonight, get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish Night.

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
    Sightseeing of Cavusin
    Sightseeing of Pigeon Valley
    Sightseeing of Uchisar
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Night Show – 35 EUR
    Hot Air Balooning – 290 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Goreme Open Air Museum – 480 TL

It’s time to hit the road to Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes – members of the Sufism order. Along the way we will stop at Ihlara Valley, a unique honeycombed canyon with rock-cut underground dwellings and churches from the Byzantine period. You can relax and replay cherished moments of discovery at our overnight stay in Konya.

  • Accommodation
    Dedeman Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Ihlara Valley

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana, also globally known as Rumi. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century, whose teachings of understanding and acceptance have lived on to this day. From cultural to natural wonders, we travel towards to the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant.

  • Accommodation
    Hierapark Hotel – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Karatay Madrasa
    Mevlana Museum Visit

Get your cameras ready, as it is time to visit Pamukkale, or ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site that contains hot springs and travertine, giving the appearance of terraces made by carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white castle and people have bathed in its pools for thousands of years. Our next stop is the spectacular, well preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was cited in the book of Revelations, and historians believe the Gospel of John was written here. Famed for the Temple of Artemis which was completed around 550 BC and is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. We will sleep overnight in the seaside town of Kusadasi.

  • Accommodation
    Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Pamukkale White Terraces
    Sightseeing of Ephesus Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Pamukkale White Terraces – 700 TL
    Ephesus Ancient City – 700 TL

After breakfast we will depart for ancient city of Troy. You may of heard of Troy from Greek mythology or maybe just watched the Brad Pitt movie, but now you will visit the ruins and archaeological site of the city of Troy, and of course the famous wooden horse. We will stay overnight in Canakkale. You will have the evening to relax and discover the town

  • Accommodation
    Kolin Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Troy Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Troy Ancient City – 600 TL

Today we depart for the shores of Gallipoli. A place of important significance for Aussies and Kiwis, we will visit the beach and cemeteries at ANZAC Cove, before paying our respects at memorial sites Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, we will drive back to where our adventure began, Istanbul.

  • Accommodation
    Legacy Ottoman Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Anzac Cove
    Sightseeing of Beach Cemetery
    Sightseeing of Lone Pine
    Sightseeing of Chunuk Bair
    Sightseeing of War Trenches

Our trip will end in Istanbul after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
Day 1 Istanbul
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Istanbul

Welcome to Turkey! At the Istanbul airport terminal keep your eyes peeled for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Included Activities
    Group Dinner
Day 2 Istanbul City Tour
Detailed Itinerary
Day 2 Istanbul City Tour

After breakfast, we begin to explore the magical old town of Istanbul. Stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
    Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
    Sightseeing of Topkapi Palace Museum
  • Optional Activities
    Bosphorus Boat Cruise – 15 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Blue Mosque – Free
    Hagia Sophia – 25 EUR
    Topkapi Palace Museum – 2000 TL
Day 3 Istanbul, Cappadocia
Detailed Itinerary
Day 3 Istanbul, Cappadocia

Today we sit back and relax in the coach. Watch the amazing Turkish scenery unfold before us and see small towns and villages as we pass on by. We will drive through the capital city of Ankara before we reach Cappadocia. In the afternoon, we will visit Derinkuyu Underground City, a city complete with a church, wells, food stores, and even stables which is all located 60m under the ground. End the day with an optional traditional Hamman (Turkish bath).

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Derinkuyu Underground City
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Bath Experience – 30 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Derinkuyu Underground City – 13 EUR
Day 4 Cappadocia
Detailed Itinerary
Day 4 Cappadocia

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Göreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Göreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. Tonight, get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish Night.

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
    Sightseeing of Cavusin
    Sightseeing of Pigeon Valley
    Sightseeing of Uchisar
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Night Show – 50 EUR
    Hot Air Balooning – 290 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Goreme Open Air Museum – 20 EUR
Day 5 Cappadocia, Konya
Detailed Itinerary
Day 5 Cappadocia, Konya

It’s time to hit the road to Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes – members of the Sufism order. Along the way we will stop at Devrent Valley, a unique honeycombed canyon with rock-cut underground dwellings and churches from the Byzantine period. You can relax and replay cherished moments of discovery at our overnight stay in Konya.

  • Accommodation
    Novotel Konya Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Devrent Valley
Day 6 Konya, Pamukkale
Detailed Itinerary
Day 6 Konya, Pamukkale

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana, also globally known as Rumi. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century, whose teachings of understanding and acceptance have lived on to this day. From cultural to natural wonders, we travel towards to the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant..

  • Accommodation
    Hierapark Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Karatay Madrasa – 3 EUR
    Mevlana Museum Visit
Day 7 Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi
Detailed Itinerary
Day 7 Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi

Get your cameras ready, as it is time to visit Pamukkale, or ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site that contains hot springs and travertine, giving the appearance of terraces made by carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white castle and people have bathed in its pools for thousands of years. Our next stop is the spectacular, well preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was cited in the book of Revelations, and historians believe the Gospel of John was written here. Famed for the Temple of Artemis which was completed around 550 BC and is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. We will sleep overnight in the seaside town of Kusadasi.

  • Accommodation
    Signature Blue Resort – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Pamukkale White Terraces
    Sightseeing of Ephesus Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Pamukkale White Terraces – 30 EUR
    Ephesus Ancient City – 40 EUR
Day 8 Kusadasi, Troy, Canakkale
Detailed Itinerary
Day 8 Kusadasi, Troy, Canakkale

After breakfast we will depart for ancient city of Troy. You may of heard of Troy from Greek mythology or maybe just watched the Brad Pitt movie, but now you will visit the ruins and archaeological site of the city of Troy, and of course the famous wooden horse. We will stay overnight in Canakkale. You will have the evening to relax and discover the town.

  • Accommodation
    Kolin Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Troy Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Troy Ancient City – 27 EUR
Day 9 Canakkale, Gallipoli, Istanbul
Detailed Itinerary
Day 9 Canakkale, Gallipoli, Istanbul

Today we depart for the shores of Gallipoli. A place of important significance for Aussies and Kiwis, we will visit the beach and cemeteries at ANZAC Cove, before paying our respects at memorial sites Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, we will drive back to where our adventure began, Istanbul.

  • Accommodation
    Legacy Ottoman Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Anzac Cove
    Sightseeing of Beach Cemetery
    Sightseeing of Lone Pine
    Sightseeing of Chunuk Bair
    Sightseeing of War Trenches
Day 10 Istanbul
Detailed Itinerary
Day 10 Istanbul

Our trip will end in Istanbul after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
Day 1 Istanbul
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Istanbul

Welcome to Turkey! At the Istanbul airport terminal keep your eyes peeled for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Included Activities
    Group Dinner
Day 2 Istanbul City Tour
Detailed Itinerary
Day 2 Istanbul City Tour

After breakfast, we begin to explore the magical old town of Istanbul. Stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline.

  • Accommodation
    Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Blue Mosque
    Sightseeing of Hagia Sophia
    Sightseeing of Topkapi Palace Museum
  • Optional Activities
    Bosphorus Boat Cruise – EUR 10
  • Entrance Fees
    Blue Mosque – Free
    Hagia Sophia – Free
    Topkapi Palace Museum – 750 TL
Day 3 Istanbul, Cappadocia
Detailed Itinerary
Day 3 Istanbul, Cappadocia

Today we sit back and relax in the coach. Watch the amazing Turkish scenery unfold before us and see small towns and villages as we pass on by. We will drive through the capital city of Ankara before we reach Cappadocia. In the afternoon, we will visit Derinkuyu Underground City, a city complete with a church, wells, food stores, and even stables which is all located 60m under the ground. End the day with an optional traditional Hamman (Turkish bath).

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Derinkuyu Underground City
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Bath Experience – 30 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Derinkuyu Underground City – 300 TL
Day 4 Cappadocia
Detailed Itinerary
Day 4 Cappadocia

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Göreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Göreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. Tonight, get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish Night.

  • Accommodation
    Avrasya Hotel – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
    Sightseeing of Cavusin
    Sightseeing of Pigeon Valley
    Sightseeing of Uchisar
  • Optional Activities
    Turkish Night Show – 35 EUR
    Hot Air Balooning – 290 EUR
  • Entrance Fees
    Goreme Open Air Museum – 480 TL
Day 5 Cappadocia, Konya
Detailed Itinerary
Day 5 Cappadocia, Konya

It’s time to hit the road to Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes – members of the Sufism order. Along the way we will stop at Ihlara Valley, a unique honeycombed canyon with rock-cut underground dwellings and churches from the Byzantine period. You can relax and replay cherished moments of discovery at our overnight stay in Konya.

  • Accommodation
    Dedeman Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Ihlara Valley
Day 6 Konya, Pamukkale
Detailed Itinerary
Day 6 Konya, Pamukkale

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana, also globally known as Rumi. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century, whose teachings of understanding and acceptance have lived on to this day. From cultural to natural wonders, we travel towards to the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant.

  • Accommodation
    Hierapark Hotel – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Karatay Madrasa
    Mevlana Museum Visit
Day 7 Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi
Detailed Itinerary
Day 7 Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi

Get your cameras ready, as it is time to visit Pamukkale, or ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site that contains hot springs and travertine, giving the appearance of terraces made by carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. The ancient city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white castle and people have bathed in its pools for thousands of years. Our next stop is the spectacular, well preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was cited in the book of Revelations, and historians believe the Gospel of John was written here. Famed for the Temple of Artemis which was completed around 550 BC and is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. We will sleep overnight in the seaside town of Kusadasi.

  • Accommodation
    Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham – 4 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Pamukkale White Terraces
    Sightseeing of Ephesus Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Pamukkale White Terraces – 700 TL
    Ephesus Ancient City – 700 TL
Day 8 Kusadasi, Pergamum, Troy, Canakkale
Detailed Itinerary
Day 8 Kusadasi, Pergamum, Troy, Canakkale

After breakfast we will depart for ancient city of Troy. You may of heard of Troy from Greek mythology or maybe just watched the Brad Pitt movie, but now you will visit the ruins and archaeological site of the city of Troy, and of course the famous wooden horse. We will stay overnight in Canakkale. You will have the evening to relax and discover the town

  • Accommodation
    Kolin Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Troy Ancient City
  • Entrance Fees
    Troy Ancient City – 600 TL
Day 9 Canakkale, Gallipoli, Istanbul
Detailed Itinerary
Day 9 Canakkale, Gallipoli, Istanbul

Today we depart for the shores of Gallipoli. A place of important significance for Aussies and Kiwis, we will visit the beach and cemeteries at ANZAC Cove, before paying our respects at memorial sites Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine. In the afternoon, we will drive back to where our adventure began, Istanbul.

  • Accommodation
    Legacy Ottoman Hotel – 5 Star
  • Meals Included
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Anzac Cove
    Sightseeing of Beach Cemetery
    Sightseeing of Lone Pine
    Sightseeing of Chunuk Bair
    Sightseeing of War Trenches
Day 10 Istanbul
Detailed Itinerary
Day 10 Istanbul

Our trip will end in Istanbul after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast and check-out of the hotel by 11:00am.

  • Meals Included
    Breakfast

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Tour Inclusions

Accommodation

5 star hotels

Meals

9 breakfasts, 6 dinners

Transportation

Air-conditioned, modern coach or mini-bus.

Airport Transfer(s)

From Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (on day 1)

Tour Guiding

Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licenced by the Ministry of Tourism.

Free Wi-Fi

Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi ( where available )

Sightseeing

Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace Museum
Derinkuyu Underground City
Goreme Open Air Museum

Cavusin
Pigeon Valley
Uchisar
Ihlara Valley
Pamukkale White Terraces
Ephesus Ancient City

Troy Ancient City
Anzac Cove
Beach Cemetery
Lone Pine
Chunuk Bair
War Trenches

What is NOT included?

What is NOT included?

- Any flights not mentioned above
- Travel Insurance
- Meals not stated above
- Items of a personal nature

- Tips and gestures
- Entrance fees to the sights and museums
- Optional activities
- Other services not stated in the itinerary

Dates & Rates

All prices are per person, based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers not wishing to pay a single supplement will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender.

Don’t forget to use the promo code EXTRA5 at checkout to get your extra 5% extra discount, adding up to 50% off!

All prices are per person, based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers not wishing to pay a single supplement will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender.
 

 

 

Don’t forget to use the promo code EXTRA5 at checkout to get your extra 5% extra discount, adding up to 50% off!

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Sat 1 Nov 2025

Mon 10 Nov 2025

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$2526 $1263

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Sat 8 Nov 2025

Mon 17 Nov 2025

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$2526 $1263

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Sat 15 Nov 2025

Mon 24 Nov 2025

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Sat 22 Nov 2025

Mon 1 Dec 2025

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$2278 $1139

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Sat 29 Nov 2025

Mon 8 Dec 2025

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December 2025

Sat 6 Dec 2025

Mon 15 Dec 2025

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Wed 17 Dec 2025

Fri 26 Dec 2025

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Thu 25 Dec 2025

Sat 3 Jan 2026

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$2745 $1373

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November 2026

Sat 14 Nov 2026

Mon 23 Nov 2026

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$2409 $1205

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December 2026

Thu 24 Dec 2026

Sat 2 Jan 2027

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Start 1 Nov

End 10 Nov

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$2526 $1263

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Available

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Start 8 Nov

End 17 Nov

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$2526 $1263

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Available

50 % Off

Start 15 Nov

End 24 Nov

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$2409 $1205

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Available

50 % Off

Start 22 Nov

End 1 Dec

Per Person in Share Room

$2278 $1139

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Available

50 % Off

Start 29 Nov

End 8 Dec

Per Person in Share Room

$2526 $1263

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December 2025

Available

50 % Off

Start 6 Dec

End 15 Dec

Per Person in Share Room

$2526 $1263

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Available

50 % Off

Start 17 Dec

End 26 Dec

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$2526 $1263

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50 % Off

Start 25 Dec

End 3 Jan

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$2745 $1373

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November 2026

Available

50 % Off

Start 14 Nov

End 23 Nov

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December 2026

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Start 24 Dec

End 2 Jan

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Accommodation

LEGACY OTTOMAN HOTEL
Istanbul
5 Star

Hotel continues its deep meaning that coming from its history which is adjacent to the most important historical monuments of the city, is the only five-star hotel in the region.

AVRASYA HOTEL
Cappadocia
4 Star

This is a very special place in Cappadocia which has been shaped by magic hands of nature. The hotel is in the intersection of the real world and the world of fairies. Also in a very good location.

NOVOTEL KONYA
Konya
5 Star

A contemporary design hotel, located in the very center of the city. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center and a swimming pool.

HIERAPARK DELUXE HOTEL
Pamukkale
5 Star

This hotel is located in Karahayit regions where is famous with it's mineral hot waters and this hotel offers an absolute relaxation with it’s hot thermal pools & spa center.

KOLIN HOTEL
Canakkale
5 Star

The 5-star hotel in Gallipoli is a perfect place to relax and prepare for the upcoming big tour. The large swimming pool and the delicious open buffet add up to the comfortable rooms they offer.

SIGNATURE BLUE RESORT
Kusadasi
5 Star

An elegant seaside hotel that features an on-site restaurant, fitness center, swimming pool, Turkish hammam, steam bath and sauna.

Accommodation
Istanbul
LEGACY OTTOMAN HOTEL
5 Star
Accommodation
Cappadocia
AVRASYA HOTEL
4 Star
Accommodation
Konya
NOVOTEL KONYA
5 Star
Accommodation
Pamukkale
HIERAPARK DELUXE HOTEL
5 Star
Accommodation
Canakkale
KOLIN HOTEL
5 Star
Accommodation
Kusadasi
SIGNATURE BLUE RESORT
5 Star

Tour Reviews

At Travel Talk we do not only strive to provide excellent value for premium adventures but also to exceed expectations in every aspect of our trips, which is reflected in an enviable 98.2% customer satisfaction rate in 2019. Thanks to the invaluable feedback of our incredible travellers, we are continuously working to improve ourselves and the communities we touch, year after year.

4.8/5 366 reviews
  • Accomodation 4.4
  • Transportation 4.72
  • Value for Money 4.99
  • Guide 4.99
  • Overall 4.82

Narelle

This tour provided a great overview of Türkiye. Our guide Mustafa was knowledgeable, and shared lots of useful information at each site we visited. He also went the extra mile to ensure each individuals needs/wants were met.

There were some very long days on the bus, as you travel about 3,000kms. However, the bus was comfortable and it was re-assuring that we had two bus drivers. The o my thing lacking was that the bus did not have wi-fi.

All the accomodation we stayed at was clean and comfortable and the meals provided by them were of a good standard.

Highlights of the tour were horse riding in Cappadocia, (a special extra Mustafa organised at our request) and hot air ballooning in Pamukkale.

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Dianne Goodwin

Mustafa was a very good tour guide and made this tour fun He also gave good history lessons and found good places for us to eat Enjoyed the tour 😊

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Dianne Goodwin

Great tour Essential Turkey Guide was fantastic food was good Had time to explore on own and was given choices on where to go 😊

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Mitchell

Fantastic tour. If you’re thinking of doing Türkiye this is the way to do it. Mustafa was a legend and kept the trip fun and informative with a great mix of jokes and historical information. As an Aussie, visiting Gallipoli was a big part of the trip and Mustafa let us have as much time as we needed to take it all in. All hotels were 4-5 stars and very comfortable. Definitely would recommend this trip to anyone thinking of travelling to Türkiye

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Ashleigh Cowan

Great tour – well planned and covers all the things you want to see! Awesome guide – Mustafa! Would highly recommend!

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Marie-Hélène Nguyen

What a lovely way to get to know Türkiye! I just had the chance to embark on a 9 days tour (Essential Turkey by land) and had the best guide in Mustafa. He was knowledgeable, always has an interesting to share and knew to how to keep things fun. The chosen destinations give the visitors a first good glimpse of what the country has to offer, but will also entice you to come back for more. Our group was very varied, but got along really well. If you are thinking about visiting Türkiye but are intimidated by the size and landmass you have to cover, choose this tour!

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Why You’ll Love This Tour

  • Feel the beating heart of Istanbul from your hotel in the old town beside monumental landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia. Join an optional Bosphorus Cruise to watch Europe and Asia unfold on your sides.
  • Stay in hand-picked, centrally located and authentic 5-star hotels and ride in private modern coaches.
  • Travel with an expert local guide throughout your trip, get the best introduction and insights into Turkish culture.
  • Visit the shores of Gallipoli to honour the fallen during one of the greatest battles of WWI & tour famous ancient cities in Anatolia; Troy and Cappadocia.
  • Explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus delving into ancient times and soak in the gorgeous Library of Celsus.
  • Walk among cottonlike pools of travertine in Pamukkale and soak in the magical landscape of Cappadocia with options for an unforgettable hot-air ballooning adventure and Turkish Bath.
  • No night drives; however some long rides are required to cover all these incredible places. You may check other tour options in Turkey for alternative routes including flights.
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Open until midnight

+44 20 809 995 96
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Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
W. Europe