Embark on a 10-day journey through Turkey, beginning and ending in Istanbul. Explore the Old City’s Ottoman and Byzantine past before heading to Gallipoli’s poignant WW1 sites. Step into legend at Troy, marvel at ancient Ephesus, and bathe in the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. In surreal Cappadocia, discover cave dwellings, underground cities and fairy chimneys, with the chance to take a magical hot air balloon ride. From bustling bazaars to ancient ruins and natural wonders, this tour offers a rich mix of history, landscapes and unforgettable Turkish hospitality.
A wonderful introduction to Turkey, this 8 day tour takes in many of the ancient sites. From the thriving city of Istanbul with a full day tour included, you will move on to explore the WWi battlefields of Gallipoli and the ancient historical sites of Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus and Pamukkale.
NOTE: On 2025 departures the following visits will be replaced:
Ancient Pergamum - Replaced with a visit to Assos.
A tour of 8 people plus our guide and driver, a perfect number for our van. A most enjoyable 2 weeks seeing the highlights of Turkey with some fine company My expectations were pleasantly met as to the variety of our itinerary be it mosques, historical sites, Greek/Roman/Underground cities, temples, ruins, natural attractions. I felt at times we were rushed a little through some Greek/Roman cities however I understand we all move at a different pace to take in these wonders, mine perhaps being slower The hotels were a mix of mainly 3 star with the occasional 4 star and all were suitable for a quiet nights rest. The breakfasts and occasional dinner on offer did vary in quality but I personally found them to be fine. I opted for the single-supplement accommodation however it was random as to whether I was given a room with 2 single beds or 1 double bed (preferable), there was no option given at check-in so that was disappointing. I also chose the tour lunch pack but in hindsight there was no need as eating choices were abundant for our luncheons I was pleased I opted for the excursion to Troy and Gallipoli which included a visit to the ancient site of Pergamon en-route, and I considered the hotel in Canakkale the best hotel of the trip I would most certainly recommend Eskapas and this tour for some wonderful lifetime memories of Turkey
Kicking off in the powerhouse of the Ottoman empire - Istanbul, pay your respects at Gallipoli, get lost in the impressive Roman ruins of Ephesus and Pergamum, witness the beautiful Aegean Coast and dip your toes in Pamukkale's beautiful cascading mineral pools.
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through the heart of Turkey with a meticulously crafted itinerary that seamlessly blends ancient cities, stunning coastlines, historical landmarks, and modern Turkish culture. Starting and ending in Istanbul, this adventure offers travelers a comprehensive and diverse exploration of this remarkable country.
The tour commences in Istanbul, a dynamic metropolis where the past and present converge in harmony. Travelers experience the city's cosmopolitan vibrancy alongside its ancient wonders, providing a perfect introduction to Turkey's rich heritage.
The journey then takes a poignant turn as travelers visit the battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli, including the hallowed ground of ANZAC Cove, paying tribute to the historical significance of World War II.
As the tour heads south along the Mediterranean coast, travelers encounter Turkey's ancient treasures. Stops at the legendary sites of Troy, the impressive Pergamum, and the exceptionally well-preserved ruins of Ephesus offer insights into the country's illustrious past.
Arriving in the coastal town of Kusadasi, guests are treated to the charm of Turkish seaside life before embarking on an inland adventure. The surreal calcium travertines at Pamukkale beckon, providing a unique opportunity for a rejuvenating dip in the spa waters. The historic ruins of Hieropolis also await exploration.
Continuing the journey, travelers follow the ancient Spice Route deeper into central Turkey, arriving in Konya, where they delve into the art of Sufi dancing and celebrate the poetry of Rumi, a profound cultural experience.
The tour then unfolds into the captivating landscape of Cappadocia, with a stop at the Sultanhani Caravanserai offering a glimpse into the past. In Cappadocia, guests are enchanted by the mesmerizing rock formations, cave churches, underground cities, and the famous 'fairy chimneys,' which define the region's unique charm.
The tour concludes with a return to Istanbul, with the option for a flight back to the city. Along the way, travelers stop in Ankara, the modern-day capital, where they can explore the city's contemporary attractions.
Throughout the journey, accommodations are carefully selected, offering a mix of 4-star and boutique hotels, ensuring comfort and a taste of local charm. For those seeking more time to explore Istanbul's wonders, additional days can be added at the beginning or end of the tour, providing a comprehensive experience of this magnificent city.
I learned so much and saw so much more of Turkey. Way beyond just Ephesus.. our guide Attahan was wonderful. Very knowledgeable and did everything in his power to ensure a wonderful experience.
This 8-day Turkey tour takes you from bustling Istanbul to the Mediterranean at Kusadasi and then inland to the beautiful scenery of Cappadocia. The itinerary is designed to combine some of Turkey's classic highlights in a week's visit, balancing bustling cities, beautiful scenery, ancient ruins and modern Turkey. You'll stay in a mix of 4-star and boutique style properties along the way.
Starting in Istanbul, the beating heart of Turkey and historically a vitally important connecting point between the continents of Europe and Asia, we visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Spice Bazaar, Hippodrome and take a cruise on the Bosphorus before flying south to the Mediterranean coast at Kusadasi. We have two nights here, and a tour to the nearby ruins at Ephesus. One of the best preserved ancient Greek & Roman sites in the whole of the Mediterranean region, this is a spectacular site with a fascinating history. We'll also visit a village famous for producing local fruit wines, and learn about the importance of carpet making in Turkey. Our next stop is at the stepped calcium travertines and hot pools at Pamukkale, before we continue into the centre of Turkey along the ancient Spice Route, passing old caravanserais and visiting the Mervlana museum at Konya on the way. This brings us to picturesque landscape of Cappadocia where we visit the strange rock formations, cave chuches and 'fairy chimneys' in the Goreme valley and venture down into one of the labarynthine underground cities built by Christians centuries ago to hide from persecution. The tour then finishes with a drive (or optional flight) via Ankara back to Istanbul where extra nights are available to spend more time exploring the city.
I booked my honeymoon in Greece and Turkey and it was a fantastic experience! All the hotels, guides, and activities they recommended were excellent! Also, having all the internal transportation taken care of removes a lot of the trip's stress and makes it much more enjoyable. Highly recommended.
CHRISTMAS TOUR: There’s no stuffing birds or entertaining aunts! Enjoy snowflakes on fairy chimneys, legendary sites at Ephesus, Troy and Aspendos, thermal springs at Pamukkale and Christmas Eve at St Nic’s on this 12 day tour of Turkey.
From Ottoman Istanbul, the battlefields of Gallipoli, Roman ruins, the Aegean Coast and the stunning mineral pools of Pamukkale, to the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Nile Cruising in Egypt. Take in the best of Egypt and Turkey in 16 days.
Discover Turkey on this 9-day tour, from the historic treasures of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Visit iconic sites like the Blue Mosque and Gallipoli’s battlefields, then explore ancient Troy, Pergamum, and the remarkably preserved ruins of Ephesus. See the striking white terraces of Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis before heading to Cappadocia, renowned for its fairy chimneys, cave churches, and underground cities, and then return to Istanbul.
Welcome to an unforgettable 8-day expedition through Turkey's most captivating destinations, including primary cities where the heritage of Anatolia pulsates in every historcial landmark.
Begin your adventure in Istanbul, where the echoes of empires past mingle with the vibrant energy of modern life. Then, journey inland to Ankara, Turkey's dynamic capital, where history and innovation intersect in a mesmerizing blend. Continue your exploration as you delve into the spiritual heart of Konya, a city steeped in Sufi mysticism and rich cultural heritage. Finally, immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where ancient cave dwellings and fairy chimneys create a landscape unlike any other.
Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime journey through Anatolia, where every moment is filled with discovery, wonder, and the enduring charm of Turkey's cultural treasures.
In this 11-day expedition, Turkey's most enchanting destinations beckon with ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture converging to create an unforgettable adventure.
Begin your journey in the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul, where the echoes of empires past resonate through its bustling streets and iconic landmarks. Then, venture into the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. Next, immerse yourself in the sun-drenched charm of Antalya, where turquoise waters and pristine beaches await. Continue your exploration as you marvel at the cascading travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Finally, delve into the ancient ruins of Ephesus, where the remnants of an illustrious past come to life amidst the ruins of this once-great city.
From the majestic beauty of Istanbul to the timeless allure of Ephesus, let Turkey enchant you with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Turkey is a land of contrasts, with a vibrant modern culture following a long history showing the marks of several different civilisations which have left a wealth of incredible ancient sites to explore. The scenery also varies hugely, from the dramatic Bosphorous strait in Istanbul, to the beautiful Mediterranean coastline, forested hills and mountains further inland and special highlights like the surreal landscapes of Pamukkale and Cappadocia.
This comprehensive 19 day tour takes all this in and more. Starting and finishing in Istanbul, the tour learns about modern history at the war memorials and ANZAC cemeteries at Gallipoli before developing deeper into the past with tours of some of the region's most important historic sites at Troy, Ephesus, Hieropolis, Aphrodisias, Aspendos and Side. There are plenty of stops to relax and enjoy the seaside at the coastal towns of Kusadasi and Fethiye and Antalya, with a 12-island boat cruise also included in the Gulf of Fethiye.
The tour then heads inland, following the ancient Silk Road trading route to see the Sultanhani Caravansary at Konya before heading south east to see Lake Van, Biblical Mount Ararat, Kars and the ruins of ancient Ani.
There are a wealth of opportunities to taste traditional and modern Turkish cuisine and to pick up souvenirs and learn more about this fascinating country along the way. Accommodation is in a mix of 4-5 star and boutique style properties, either on a breakfast only or half-board basis depending on the location and other options available nearby.
