Treasures of Turkey - With Anzac Day, Classic Group
Treasures of Turkey - With Anzac Day, Classic Group
Treasures of Turkey - With Anzac Day, Classic Group
15 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul
Visiting: Istanbul, Bursa, Cumalikizik, Gordion, Ankara, Cappadocia, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi, Troy, Çanakkale
Tour operator:
Tour code:
Z949ZM120
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Travel Turkey on this 15-day guided tour. See Cappadocia, where golden landscapes give way to caverns below. You’ll descend into a local resident’s cave house for a tour and talk about their way of life. Later, see whirling dervishes — twirling dancers who will entertain you during a special dinner. In Goreme, explore rock-hewn churches decorated with ancient paintings before dining on the unique flavours served at a local restaurant that supports women from the village. Travel to Turkey’s third largest city, Izmir, and explore one of the world’s finest archaeological sites, Ephesus. Here, walk to its gargantuan amphitheatre, which could seat as many as 24,000 people. In Istanbul, see the Blue Mosque’s tiled domes and the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held. Try your hand at bargaining in the city’s Grand Bazaar, which includes more than 4,000 shops.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Turkey. You’ll start in vibrant Istanbul, where a representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director and getting to know your fellow travellers over a delicious dinner.
Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise And Bursa
Location: Istanbul, Bursa
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning embark on a cruise along Bosphorus Strait, one of the world’s busiest waterways. Leisurely cruise past the quaint fishing villages that line its shores. Travel towards the old city and see the beautiful Ottoman palaces and fortresses, on the waterfront. Later, leave Istanbul for Bursa. A large city in northwest Turkey, it was the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire, visit the Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque and the Mausoleum Complex. There will be time in the afternoon to explore the city’s bazaars, silk markets and historic monuments. This evening, venture to a local restaurant for a tasty meal.
Day 3: Cumalikizik And Gordion
Location: Bursa, Cumalikizik, Gordion, Ankara
Accommodation: Ankara HiltonSA
Accommodation Name: Ankara HiltonSA
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you continue to the charming village of Cumalikizik, with its traditional wooden houses and very narrow cobblestone streets. Later you’ll head to Gordion, which was once the capital city of ancient Phrygia, as you make your way to Turkey’s modern capital, Ankara. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel, the Hilton SA. Perhaps take a dip in its indoor pool or unwind in its jacuzzi or hammam.
Day 4: Sophisticated Ankara
Location: Ankara, Cappadocia
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A day for history enthusiasts, explore Turkey’s bustling cultural capital, Ankara. Sightseeing includes a visit to the Hittite Museum and Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk, Turkey's greatest modern leader and the first President of the Republic of Turkey. Later, head to Avanos in Cappadocia. Famed for its unique geological formation, Cappadocia is a scenic delight with golden hills and panoramic views.
Day 5: The Underground Cities Of Cappadocia Experience
Location: Cappadocia
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
With its striking golden, volcanic landscapes, underground city and otherworldly buildings, Cappadocia could never be called ordinary. At every turn you’ll be delighted with yet another geographical or architectural surprise. Today you’ll travel to the striking town of Göreme. Explore its rock-hewn churches decorated with ancient wall paintings. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Uçhisar Kadineli Restaurant and get a taste of Anatolia’s regional flavours. This establishment provides employment for the women of the village and supports their financial freedom. Next, continue on to the Pasabag Valley and visit the underground city of Özkonak where you’ll have time to explore its tunnels and holes with your Travel Director. Later, join a Cappadocian local who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house. Explore this unique way of living, learning about local traditions and family life. This evening you’ll witness a performance of Whirling Dervishes before dining at a local restaurant.
Day 6: Konya
Location: Cappadocia, Konya
Accommodation: Novotel Konya
Accommodation Name: Novotel Konya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day by learning more about traditional pottery making in Avanos. It’s then time to take a journey along the famous Silk Road to visit a 13th century caravanserai, a historic roadside inn where travellers would rest and recover after a day’s journey, most notably along the iconic road itself. Later, you’ll head to Turkey’s most religious city, Konya, the old capital of the Anatolian Seljuk Empire. Once here, visit the Mevlana Museum, with its beautiful fluted turquoise dome, and see the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret.
Day 7: Through The Taurus Mountains
Location: Konya, Antalya
Accommodation: Akra Antalya
Accommodation Name: Akra Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
You day begins with a scenic drive down the Taurus Mountains to Aspendos, an ancient city in Antalya. Known for having the best-preserved Roman theatre anywhere in the world, learn more as you explore it with your fellow travellers. Continue to your hotel for the next two nights and enjoy time to relax.
Day 8: Antalya's Old Town
Location: Antalya
Accommodation: Akra Antalya
Accommodation Name: Akra Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a visit to Antalya's pretty Old Town, with its souvenir markets and sweeping sea views. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the leisure facilities at your hotel. Alternatively, explore Antalya at your own pace. Ask your Travel Director for recommendations on places to explore in the city, take a stroll around the harbour or perhaps take a boat trip off the coast.
Day 9: The Pools Of Pamukkale
Location: Antalya, Pamukkale
Accommodation: Doga Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale
Accommodation Name: Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the soaring Taurus Mountains to see the remains of the ancient city of Hierapolis, a Roman spa city founded around 190 B.C. Next to the ruins, you can see the gleaming white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters and chalk-white limestone terraces, explore the area with your Travel Director. Later, head back to your hotel, the esteemed Doğa Thermal Health & Spa. Take full advantage of its indoor and outdoor thermal pools, steam room and its Turkish bath complex.
Day 10: Ancient Ephesus
Location: Pamukkale, Ephesus, Kusadasi
Accommodation: Charisma De Luxe, Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Charisma De Luxe, Kusadasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore one of the world's finest archaeological sites, Ephesus. Walk through the colonnaded Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and the huge Amphitheatre, before visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, a famous Catholic, situated above the Ephesus ruins. Then travel to the nearby town of Selçuk for an educational visit to the Archaeological Museum. Delve into the area’s history as you explore the museum’s exhibits, many of which have been retrieved from the nearby Ephesus excavation site.
Day 11: Troy And Çanakkale
Location: Kusadasi, Troy, Çanakkale
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In Homer’s city of Troy, the focal point of the Trojan war and the backdrop to one of history’s most famous love stories, that of Paris and Helen of Troy, the face that launched 1000 ships. A replica of the mighty Trojan Horse, which helped the Greeks capture the city in 1200 B.C., can be found beside the city’s walls. After some time exploring, continue your journey to Çanakkale, a gateway to the Gallipoli WWI battlefields.
Day 12: Canakkale
Location: Çanakkale
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dawn and first light signals the commencement of the annual Dawn Service. Attend alongside Australian, New Zealand and other foreign dignitaries and military personnel to honour the fallen soldiers. After the service pay your respects at the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Cemeteries, whilst learning more about the events which lead to the Anzac troops fighting in an attempt to gain control of the Dardanelles Strait. This afternoon return to your hotel for the rest of your day at leisure. Perhaps relax poolside and admire the beautiful surroundings or book in for one of the many treatments on offer at the hotel spa.
Day 13: Gallipoli And Anzac Cove
Location: Çanakkale, Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, cross the Dardanelles Strait by ferry to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Located in the southern part of East Thrace, it was here that, for nine months during the Great War, Anzac troops fought, in an attempt to gain control of the Dardanelles Strait. Learn more about these events as you visit Anzac Cove and pay your respects at the Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, return to Istanbul where you’ll spend the next two nights.
Day 14: Istanbul And The Ottoman Empire
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll take in the sites of Istanbul. In the morning visit the historic Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held. Explore Hagia Sophia with Insight Choice. Choose between visiting Hagia Sophia Digital Experience, offering an immersive journey through the landmarks marvels, or alternatively, visit Hagia Sophia built in A.D. 537 and famous for its domed roof. Visit the Topkapi Palace, perched above the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the primary inlet of the waterway. In the evening, join your fellow travellers and toast to your trip over dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Farewell Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends, as your trip comes to an end. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flights, or for those extending their stay in Istanbul, speak to your Travel Director for tips and tricks on where to head.
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 9 dinners, and 1 lunch.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Istanbul, including a digital experience of Hagia Sophia or a visit to the historic site.
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Guided Tours
Personal radio headsets are provided for guided tours, allowing you to wander during visits without missing commentary.
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Tips and Taxes
Hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, and porterage charges are included.
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Luggage Handling
Luggage is carried and delivered to your hotel door.
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Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and in hotels where available.
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights that match the itinerary start and end dates.
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Cultural Experiences
Enjoy cultural experiences such as a Whirling Dervishes performance and a visit to a local cave house in Cappadocia.
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Luxury Coach
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board the coach.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach featuring double the standard legroom, onboard washroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless journey across Turkey's stunning landscapes.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at top hotels like Radisson Blu Sisli in Istanbul, Ankara HiltonSA, DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos in Cappadocia, and Akra Antalya, ensuring a relaxing stay throughout your journey in Turkey.
Dining Summary
- 9 Dinner (D)
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Cappadocia: Join a Cappadocian local, who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house to learn more about their unique way of life.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Treasures of Turkey tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul, a visit to the ancient city of Troy, a performance of Whirling Dervishes in Cappadocia, and a visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula for the Dawn Service. Additionally, guests can explore the underground cities of Cappadocia, visit the Mevlana Museum in Konya, and enjoy the thermal pools at Pamukkale.
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How does the tour support local communities?
The tour supports local communities by including a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Uçhisar Kadineli Restaurant in Cappadocia, which provides employment for women in the village and supports their financial independence.
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What are some of the historical sites visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites including the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, the ancient city of Ephesus, the Roman theatre in Aspendos, the Mausoleum of Atatürk in Ankara, and the archaeological site of Troy.
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Are there any special events included in the tour itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes attending the Dawn Service at Gallipoli, which is a moving ceremony to honor the fallen soldiers of World War I.
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What kind of accommodations can be expected on this tour?
Guests will stay in a variety of accommodations including the Radisson Blu Sisli in Istanbul, Ankara HiltonSA, DoubleTree by Hilton in Avanos and Canakkale, Novotel in Konya, Akra Antalya, Doğa Thermal Health & Spa in Pamukkale, and Charisma De Luxe in Kusadasi.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions