Welcome to Turkey and the start of your holiday. There's an included arrival transfer to our hotel before the afternoon is at leisure. Relax in the hotel or head out to explore the city. Istanbul is easy to get around on foot and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes dotted about the city.

This morning, our journey commences with an enchanting exploration of Istanbul's Old City, where we'll marvel at architectural wonders spanning the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Our first destination is the captivating Blue Mosque, celebrated for its intricate blue Iznik tiles. Following that, we'll uncover the historical significance of the Hippodrome and the majestic Hagia Sophia, originally constructed as a Basilica in the 6th century during Emperor Justinian's reign. Finally, our expedition leads us to the grand Topkapi Palace, once the primary residence of Ottoman sultans during the 15th century.

From Istanbul to Gallipoli, today's journey immerses us in the poignant history of the WW1 battlefields. Our guided tour unfolds the stories embedded in ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial and Cemetery, Chunuk Bair Memorial and Cemetery, the Nek, Johnston’s Jolly, and the resilient trenches that endure amid the scrub, telling tales of courage and sacrifice from years past.

Leaving Gallipoli for Kusadasi, our morning begins with a brief guided exploration of Troy. Rediscovered in 1863, this legendary city, immortalized in Homer’s poetry, unveils nine ancient layers dating back to 3000 BC. Walking through the ruins, we encounter a replica of the Trojan wooden horse, a symbol of the legendary Achaean soldiers. Journeying south, we arrive at the ancient Pergamum, featuring one of the steepest amphitheaters in the classical world and the renowned Asclepion medical center. Our path then leads to Kusadasi on the Aegean Coast, with a stop at a leather manufacturing house along the way.

Today's adventure unfolds in the legendary city of Ephesus, considered among the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. Flourishing under Roman rule, Ephesus boasted a population nearing 250,000, serving as a thriving hub of commerce. Pilgrims flocked to witness the grand Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders. Our extensive tour allows ample time to explore the marble ruins, including the renowned Library of Celsus, the Stadium, Vedius' gymnasium, and the impressive Great Theatre. We'll wander through ancient public toilets, a brothel, fountains, and various temples, gaining a comprehensive view of Ephesus's historical tapestry. To enrich our journey, a visit to a carpet manufacturing house awaits.

Heading eastward, we reach Pamukkale, renowned for its dazzling white calcium terraced pools, often referred to as the Cotton Castles. A natural marvel, these terraces were created as warm, calcium-rich mineral water flowed over the cliff edge, cooling and depositing to form natural shelves and pools known as travertines. Whether taking a barefoot stroll along these unique formations or indulging in a relaxing dip in the thermal pool with its submerged marble columns, Pamukkale offers a tranquil encounter with Mother Nature's gift. Our final destination of the day is the ancient spa town of Hierapolis, celebrated for its mineral springs and the creation of communal baths from dammed waters, attesting to the historical curative powers of the area.

On this day of our trip, we will travel to Cappadocia, accompanied by breaks.

Cappadocia, in central Turkey, is famed for its surreal landscapes featuring fairy chimneys—tall, cone-shaped rock formations. These unique structures, carved into dwellings and churches, date back to the Byzantine era. Visitors often take hot air balloon rides for a stunning aerial view, especially during sunrise. The Goreme Open-Air Museum showcases rock-cut churches with Byzantine frescoes, while underground cities like Derinkuyu provide insights into historical refuge spaces. Cappadocia's charm lies in its extraordinary geological features, rich history, and vibrant local culture.

Returning to Istanbul from Cappadocia today, we pause for lunch en route (payment on-site). Our arrival in Istanbul is expected in the evening. For those seeking to bypass the extended overland journey, an alternative option is available: the choice to fly directly from Cappadocia to Istanbul.

After breakfast our tour draws to a close. An onward departure transfer is included to Istanbul International Airport and is offered at 9am and 1pm today.