Istanbul to the Med - 7 days
Istanbul to the Med - 7 days
Istanbul to the Med - 7 days
7 Days Starting in Istanbul and ending in Marmaris
Visiting: Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Marmaris
Tour operator:
Tour code:
920/ITM
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 24
Age range:
16 years with an accompanying adult
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Following the famed Aegean coastline, we discover Ottoman Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, ancient Ephesus and Pamukkale, finishing in coastal Marmaris - gateway to the Greek Islands. This 7 day holiday from Istanbul to the Mediterranean sea will give you an insight into the fascinating history, culture and landscapes of western Turkey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Point Hotel Taksim
Saturday. Arrive in vibrant Istanbul and transfer to your hotel, where our adventure begins! Spend your afternoon exploring this captivating city on foot, its enchanting streets are lined with a variety of charming restaurants and cozy cafes waiting to be discovered. With the rest of the day at your leisure, immerse yourself in Istanbul’s rich culture, savour local cuisine, and perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll or a refreshing drink at a local bar. At 8pm, join us for a welcome meeting where you'll meet your tour guide and fellow travellers. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect and share your excitement for the journey ahead.
Day 2: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Point Hotel Taksim
Meals Included: Breakfast
Istanbul. This morning, we embark on an enthralling journey through Istanbul's captivating Old City, the once-thriving centre of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires.
Our adventure begins at the awe-inspiring Blue Mosque, a masterpiece renowned for its shimmering blue Iznik tiles and majestic six minarets that pierce the sky.
From there, we’ll stroll through the ancient Hippodrome, where chariot races once thrilled thousands. Next, we’ll marvel at the exterior of the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel originally built as a grand basilica in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Its imposing presence has transformed through the ages, from a church to a mosque and now a museum.
Finally, we’ll immerse ourselves in the opulence of the Topkapi Palace, where we’ll explore the lavish courtyards and fascinating museums that showcase the grandeur of the Ottoman sultans.
Please Note: Starting January 2024, the lower floor of Hagia Sophia will be exclusively open to Muslims for prayer, while the upper floor galleries will be dedicated to touristic purposes with a newly imposed entrance fee. If you wish to explore the interior, you may have the opportunity during your free time in Istanbul.
Day 3: Canakkale
Location: Canakkale
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kolin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Istanbul – Gallipoli. Today, we delve into the poignant history of the Gallipoli battlefields, starting with a visit to the iconic ANZAC Cove. Our guided tour will lead us through a landscape where every corner tells a story of bravery and sacrifice. We’ll pay our respects at the Lone Pine Memorial and Cemetery, where countless Australian soldiers are commemorated, and at the Chunuk Bair Memorial and Cemetery, which honours the valiant efforts of New Zealand troops. We’ll also explore the Nek and Johnston’s Jolly, as well as the enduring remnants of fortified trenches, still etched into the scrubland after all these years. Each site offers a moving glimpse into the harrowing yet heroic past of this historic region.
Day 4: Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Gallipoli - Kusadasi/Izmir. Step back in time as we uncover the legendary ruins of Troy and Pergamum. Our journey begins at the ancient city of Troy, a site that inspired Homer's Iliad and the epic film Troy.
We’ll explore its storied ruins, including the iconic Trojan Horse, dating back to 3000 BC. Continuing our adventure, we’ll head to the impressive ruins of Pergamum, where we’ll marvel at its grand temples, renowned library, and advanced medical facilities that once made it a pinnacle of cultural and political influence.
Before reaching our destination in either Kusadasi or Izmir, we’ll make a stop at a local carpet emporium to admire some of the finest carpets in the world, a testament to Turkey's rich textile tradition.
Day 5: Ephesus
Location: Ephesus
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, we embark on an exhilarating exploration of ancient Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. As we stroll through this magnificent site, you’ll be awestruck by the grandeur of the Great Theatre, the bustling Curetes Way, and the imposing Temple of Serapis. Don’t miss the stunning Library of Celsus, a testament to the city’s scholarly prowess. Wander through the ancient streets to uncover intriguing remnants such as the public toilets and the historic brothel, offering a unique glimpse into Roman daily life.
Following our Ephesus adventure, we’ll delve into Turkey’s rich carpet weaving tradition with a fascinating demonstration showcasing the intricate artistry involved. Our journey concludes in the charming Greek village of Sirince, nestled on a mountainside within a picturesque valley of vineyards and orchards, where you can soak up the serene atmosphere and local culture.
Day 6: Pamukkale
Location: Pamukkale
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Orsmaris Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As we meander through the sweeping plains and cotton farms, we arrive at the breathtaking ruins of Roman Hierapolis and the famous hot springs of Pamukkale. Behold this surreal landscape, sculpted over millennia by natural forces and frequent earthquakes. Marvel at the gleaming travertine terraces, formed by the cascading calcium-rich waters that have created dazzling shelves and pools of pristine white. The crystalline marble and shimmering stalactites catch the sunlight in a magical display.
You’ll have the opportunity to paddle through the terraces, feeling the warm, mineral-rich waters beneath your feet. Alternatively, you can luxuriate in the Thermal Bath House, where you can relax among submerged fragments of ancient marble columns (at an additional cost). Afterward, we’ll visit a local leather fashion house, where you can explore exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs.
Day 7: Marmaris
Location: Marmaris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Friday. Marmaris. Our tour concludes after breakfast, but the adventure doesn’t have to end there. Extend your stay with a blissful three nights at the beach, where you can unwind by the pool or bask in the sun on the sandy shores. For an extra touch of excitement, why not embark on a day trip to the enchanting Greek Island of Rhodes? Just an hour away by catamaran, Rhodes offers stunning landscapes and rich history, making it the perfect addition to your holiday.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 - 5 star -
Breakfast daily and 4 hotel dinners
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6 nights 4-5 star hotels
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Guided sightseeing - Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ruins of Ephesus, Pergamum, Pamukkale and Roman Hierapolis
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Escorted by an English speaking, degree qualified Turkish tour guide
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Airport arrival transfer on day 1 from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport
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All relevant transfers and transportation in private modern air-conditioned vehicles
What's Not Included
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International flights and visa
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Tip for your tour guide and driver. We recommend you allow EUR €5 - 7 per day, per traveller as a tip for your guide and EUR €2 per day for your driver. Tipping your guide and driver is an entirely personal gesture
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Entrance Fees: EUR€180-195pp, paid EUR
Age Policy
16 years with an accompanying adult
Check out our Q&As
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 from Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
4 - 5 star
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What is the maximum group size?
24
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.