Ottoman Odyssey

Welcome to Istanbul! On arrival in the city, you will be escorted to our hotel. There is a brief welcome meeting with our guide and then the rest of the evening is at leisure for you to relax or head out and explore the city, formerly known as Constantinople.

Today after breakfast, we discover the sights of Istanbul, one of Europe's oldest and most fascinating cities, straddling the border with Asia. We visit Topkapi Palace, which was home to the majority of Ottoman sultans between 1453 and 1852. Take in the Hippodrome, once home to chariot racing, and uncover the beautiful Blue Mosque. We also see the exterior of the spectacular Hagia Sofia, you can opt to go inside this incredible site too, for an additional fee.

Our final stop is the Grand Bazaar, a vibrant and bustling marketplace filled with a maze of narrow alleys and shops. Here, visitors can explore thousands of stalls offering everything from traditional Turkish carpets, ceramics, and jewellery to spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds of haggling and the rich scents of spices and leather, provides a perfect start to our Ottoman Odyssey, encapsulating the essence of Turkish culture and history.

There is an optional dinner, complete with traditional belly dancing entertainment for an additional fee.

Istanbul - Gallipoli - Dardanelles - Canakkale. After breakfast, we visit Gallipoli, where many crucial and bloody battles were fought during the First World War. We pay our respects at ANZAC Cove, walk through the poignant Lone Pine Cemetery, and stand atop Chunuk Bair, imagining the battles that shaped history. After a day filled with sobering reflection and discovery, we head to Canakkale for an overnight stay.

Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Izmir. After breakfast, we say goodbye to Canakkale as we visit the fabled city of Troy, complete with a replica wooden horse! As well as featuring in a well-known Greek legend, the city of Troy is known for its archaeological wonders, with many ancient towns and cities having been built and rebuilt on top of each other.

Before arriving at Asklepion, we enjoy a delicious lunch with locals in a charming village, soaking up the traditional atmosphere and hospitality. We then continue to Pergamum, where we explore the fascinating ruins of the ancient Medical Centre at Asklepion. After an inspiring day of history and culture, we make our way to Izmir for an overnight stay.

Izmir - Ephesus - Izmir. After breakfast, we experience a fascinating journey through history as we embark on a tour of the world-renowned ruins of Ephesus. This ancient city served as a pivotal cultural hub in the past and continues to captivate visitors today. Walk alongside 2,000-year-old marble streets, marvel at the grandeur of an ancient theatre, explore the breathtaking Library of Celsus and the impressive gymnasium, and be awe-inspired by the remarkable Hadrian's Temple.

Our next stop is the House of the Virgin Mary, an important Catholic shrine believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years, accompanied by Saint John. We also visit a regional rug production centre today, to have a firsthand experience of this unique art form. We then return to our hotel in Izmir for an evening at leisure.

Izmir - Bodrum. After breakfast, we set off for Bodrum, where we will explore the impressive Castle of St. Peter, an exemplary example of 15th century Crusader architecture. We visit the renowned Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology. We spend the night at our hotel in Bodrum.

Today is free to explore beachside Bodrum at leisure. Relax at one of the city's beaches or head out to explore at your own pace, the choice is yours!

You can also join an optional day trip to the Greek island of Kos, for an additional fee. Kos is known for its breathtaking beaches, rich historical sites, and vibrant culture. Tonight is spent in Bodrum.

Please note: For Kos, only roundtrip ferry ticket will be provided.

Bodrum - Pamukkale. After breakfast, we visit the unique cotton fortress of Pamukkale, with its white lime cascades formed by mineral springs. This surreal landscape, often referred to as the 'Cotton Castles,' was sculpted by frequent earthquakes in the fault depression of the Menderes River basin. We’ll be captivated by the gleaming white cliffs, crystalline marble, and sparkling quartz formations that shimmer in the sunlight. Whilst here, we can also visit the ruins of the Roman health spa of Hierapolis and enjoy a swim in our hotel’s thermal pool.

Pamukkale - Antalya. After breakfast, we set off for Antalya, where we enjoy a walking tour of the charming old town centre. Here we can soak up the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting city. Dinner is included tonight.

Enjoy a full day in Antalya at leisure, with the option to join an exciting tour to Perge and Aspendos at an additional fee.

In the afternoon, you’re free to explore at your own pace or relax as you wish. We’ll then gather for a dinner at our hotel to cap off the day.

Antalya - Cappadocia. We set off early in the morning after breakfast. Our journey today is to Cappadocia, with a fascinating visit to a 13th-century Caravanserai (traditional Silk Road inn) along the way. Later, we explore the underground city of Saratli. After a day full of adventure, we enjoy dinner and spend the night in the magical landscape of Cappadocia. We are staying in one of Cappadocia's famous cave hotels, which dates back thousands of years and has been restored. It promises to be a memorable two-night stay here!

Opt to start your day with an exhilarating hot air balloon tour, floating gently above Cappadocia's volcanic valleys, fairy chimneys, and ancient caves as the sun rises. (booked and paid locally)

After breakfast, we explore the historic region of Goreme, nestled among stunning rock formations. Dating back to the Roman period, this area is home to numerous rock churches and underground settlements, remnants of a time when Christianity flourished here.

Next, we head to Avanos, renowned for its exquisite pottery. We'll also visit Devrent and the Red Valley, and take part in a brief, hands-on pottery workshop to learn about the local craft.

In the evening, we enjoy dinner at our hotel. Tonight, there is an optional Whirling Dervishes performance at an additional fee. Experience this mesmerizing display of traditional dance and spiritual ritual.

Cappadocia - Ankara. After breakfast, we make the journey to the Turkish capital, Ankara, travelling through the scenic Salt Lake region. Upon arrival, we visit the impressive Mausoleum of Ataturk, the revered father of modern Turkey, where we gain insights into his pivotal role in shaping the nation.

Ankara - Istanbul. After breakfast, we set off for Istanbul. In the afternoon, you have the option to embark on a captivating half-day Bosphorus cruise at an additional fee. Here you can marvel at the strait that divides Asia and Europe. As you glide along, enjoy views of charming neighbourhoods, grand Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, traditional wooden villas, hotels, parks, and cafés.

Next, why not head to the Spice Market for some last-minute shopping, immersing yourself in the enticing aromas of exotic spices from the East?

To conclude our adventure, we gather for a delightful farewell dinner, celebrating the end of our unforgettable journey.

Your Turkish adventure comes to an end today. Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before an included transfer to the airport for your onward flight.