Istanbul & Aegean Highlights
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through the heart of Turkey and the enchanting Greek islands. Your adventure begins in Istanbul and takes you to iconic landmarks such as the Topkapi Palace and the Spice Market. The historical battlegrounds of Gallipoli and the legendary city of Troy are next. The adventure continues with the exploration of the ancient treasures of Pergamum, the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, and the charming village of Sirince. An Aegean twist awaits as you ferry to the Greek islands of Samos and Kos for leisurely day trips. Your journey concludes in Bodrum, a coastal gem offering relaxation and vibrant nightlife.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Istanbul
Day 1 Welcome to Istanbul
Saturday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 2 Tour of Istanbul
Day 2 Tour of Istanbul
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Day 3 Gallipoli & ANZAC Cove
Day 3 Gallipoli & ANZAC Cove
Istanbul - Canakkale. Today, you'll embark on a journey to Gallipoli, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the legendary landmarks of ANZAC Cove, Nek, Conk Bair, Lone Pine, and the 57th Regiment Memorial.
Afterwards, you'll proceed to cross the Dardanelles, where Asia and Europe meet. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Canakkale, where you can enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 4 Legendary Troy
Day 4 Legendary Troy
Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Kusadasi/Izmir. Following breakfast, we'll head for the legendary city of Troy, where the renowned Trojan War unfolded. You'll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating archaeological site, delving into its rich history.
Continuing on, we'll cross the picturesque Ida mountain range and arrive in Pergamum. Here, you'll visit the ancient Acropolis. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Kusadasi, where you can relax and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Day 5 Ancient Ephesus & Sirince
Day 5 Ancient Ephesus & Sirince
Kusadasi/Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Kusadasi/Izmir. Today, a brief drive will take you to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent library, theater, and temples. The day's journey also includes a chance to discover the local craftsmanship of hand-made carpets and leather products.
Continuing on, you'll reach the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of Turkey's most beautiful villages. While in Sirince, you can shop unique local crafts and taste the delightful wines produced in the village. We'll end the night in Kusadasi.
Day 6 Day Trip to Samos
Day 6 Day Trip to Samos
Kusadasi/Izmir - Samos (Greece) - Kusadasi/Izmir (Turkey). Today, you'll be transferred to the port for a ferry ride to Samos, a charming Greek Island. Here, you'll have the opportunity for self-guided exploration, to explore how you wish.
Make sure to wander through the picturesque streets of Samos, visit historical sites, enjoy the stunning coastal views, and savour the island's delicious cuisine at local tavernas. Late in the afternoon, you'll board the return ferry to Kusadasi.
Day 7 Beautiful Bodrum
Day 7 Beautiful Bodrum
Kusadasi/Izmir - Bodrum. After breakfast, you'll head to Bodrum. On arrival, the remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own pace.
There's much to do in this coastal town - opt to relax on the beautiful beaches, explore the charming town, or experience the vibrant nightlife.
Day 8 The Island of Kos
Day 8 The Island of Kos
Bodrum - Kos (Greece) - Bodrum (Turkey). This morning, you'll be transferred to the port for a ferry ride to Kos, a captivating Greek Island. This day is dedicated to self-guided exploration, allowing you to discover the island's unique beauty and culture at your own pace.
Kos has much to offer - consider visiting historical sites, enjoying the idyllic beaches, and make sure to immerse yourself in the Greek island lifestyle. In the late afternoon, you'll board the return ferry to Bodrum.
Day 9 Goodbye
Day 9 Goodbye
Sunday. Today marks the end of your adventure. Departure transfer is included to Bodrum Port or Bodrum Airport.
Tour Highlights
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Prices & Dates
Hotels
This impressive 5-star hotel is located in the upmarket Beyoglu district of Istanbul and a free shuttle is provided to the city centre, home to the Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sofia, amongst other attractions. Rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton are elegant and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and a flatscreen TV. Some rooms feature a balcony. There is free Wi-Fi at the property and amenities include an indoor pool with whirlpool, fitness centre and sun terrace. There are two onsite restaurants and a daily breakfast buffet.
Looking out across the Dardanelles, the modern and bright Kolin Hotel offers well appointed rooms with hard wood flooring and tasteful decor. The hotel also boasts a luxury spa, wellness centre and a number of mouth watering restaurants all set within perfectly manicured lawns. Sipping a sundowner on the roof bar, overlooking the beautiful strait, is the perfect way to end the day. The hotel is located on the water’s edge a short drive from the town centre with beautiful views out to sea.
The Charisma is a modern and elegant hotel with spacious rooms. The rooms are equipped with jacuzzi, LCD screen television, split air conditioning, mini-bar, electronic safe box, hairdryer and free internet connection. Towering over the Aegean Sea's outstanding view, the Hotel is just 15 minutes by walk from Kuşadası's shopping and entertainment area.
El Vino offers a prime location for entertainment and spectacular sunsets over Bodrum. Each of the hotel's spacious, comfortable guest rooms is tastefully decorated with pretty, modern furniture and all of the rooms are fully equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning. The accommodation also features a kitchenette, which allows guests to enjoy light snacks at their convenience. The hotel is in the town centre of Bodrum and 35 km from Bodrum Airport.
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