ISTANBUL
    Welcome to Istanbul, a city steeped in history! You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours, free to relax or explore this amazing city. Overnight Istanbul.

ISTANBUL OLD CITY
    After breakfast, enjoy a fully guided tour of Istanbul – once known as the former imperial capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. We visit the Blue Mosque, Aya Sofya, soak in the Sultan’s opulence at Topkapi Palace, explore the underground Basilica Cistern and the Hippodrome. Evening free. Overnight Istanbul (B)

GALLIPOLI, BATTLEFIELDS
    Morning departure, headed towards the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli. Here, we’ll embark upon a guided tour of the region, once the site of fierce fighting, however today almost hauntingly beautiful, with its wooded landscape scattered with memorials to the war dead . Our tour will cover ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Australian War Memorial and cemetery, Chunuk Bair New Zealand War Memorial and cemetery, the Nek, Johnston’s Jolly and the many fortified trenches. Overnigh Canakkale (B, D)

TROY, ACROPOLIS OF PERGAMUM
    This morning, we visit Troy, home of the famed Trojan Horse. We continue along the coastline to the magnificent Acropolis of Pergamum, Asia Minor’s former political powerhouse, although now a laid-back market town packed with ancient sites. Visit the impressive temples and library. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

EPHESUS, KUSADASI
    Today feel the ancient times with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Explore this stunningly preserved city and learn about its past as a major trading centre. Discover the place where the Virgin Mary spent her last days. Visit a rug maker and find out about the local craft this country is famous for – carpet weaving. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

PAMUKKALE, HIERAPOLIS
    This morning enjoy a wonderful display of locally handcrafted leather goods before heading to the fascinating, chalky terrace of Pamukkale. Take the opportunity to bathe in the nearby hot springs known for their therapeutic powers. Also visit the ancient city of Hierapolis. Overnight Pamukkale (B, D)

SILK ROAD, KONYA
    Today we travel the ancient Silk Road, visiting Sultanhani Caravansary, the largest in Anatolia and the Mevlana museum in Konya, a city famous for its religious role and the birthplace of the Whirling Dervishes. Tonight, don't miss the optional traditional Turkish folklore evening! Overnight Cappadocia (B, D)

CAPPADOCIA, GOREME, UNDERGROUND CITY
    Goreme is a magical little village set amid the surreal Cappadocia landscape. Fully guided, explore the underground city where early Christians escaped the persecution of the Romans by hiding in the intricate network of caves. Marvel at the ingenuity of the early settlers who hand-carved their homes into the volcanic rock. Visit Uchisar castle. Overnight Cappadocia (B, D)

ISTANBUL
    After breakfast we conclude our tour, say goodbye to our new friends and transfer you to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

o Inbound & outbound airport transfers - Istanbul
o Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
o Professional English-speaking tour guide for the duration of the tour
o Entrance fees to the various sites
o 9 breakfasts, 6 dinners
o 9 nights 4 star & 5 star accommodation