The Best of Turkey - 8 Days



Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female62%
- Male38%
Average age
Start / End
- Istanbul
- Istanbul
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 15Meals included
7Highlights
- Explore Historic Istanbul: Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Istanbul, from its bustling bazaars and fragrant tea houses to the majestic Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, with opportunities for a scenic Bosphorus cruise.
- Journey Through Ancient Legends: Step back in time at the poignant WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, then uncover the mythical past as you walk the ancient ruins of the legendary city of Troy, where epic tales come to life.
- Wander Through Ottoman Charm in Ayvalik: Discover the picturesque town of Ayvalik, with its enchanting blend of old Ottoman architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and a beautiful harbour, offering optional boat tours and stunning sunset views.
- Discover the Grandeur of Ephesus: Explore the breathtaking remains of the ancient Roman city of Ephesus, a truly remarkable archaeological site, and delve into the rich history surrounding St. John's Basilica and the Mosque of Isa Bey.
- Marvel at Pamukkale's Cotton Castle: Be captivated by the ethereal white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, often called the "Cotton Castle," and explore the adjacent ancient spa city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its therapeutic hot springs.
- Cultural Immersion in Selçuk and Şirince: Experience the authentic Turkish lifestyle in the vibrant town of Selçuk, your base for exploring Ephesus, or venture to the charming village of Şirince for local wine tasting and craft shopping amidst picturesque scenery.
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Summary
This trip is ideal for the traveller who is short on time but wants to experience as much of Turkey’s stunning scenery and fascinating history as possible. Begin the journey at the WWI battlefield of Gallipoli, then leap into Greek myths and explore the remains of the legendary city of Troy before strolling along the streets of Ephesus. Don't miss the remarkable white cliff pools of Pamukkale before boarding a comfortable and convenient flight back to Istanbul. Return refreshed and ready to explore the city’s bazaars, mosques, and tea houses.
Itinerary
Day 1
Istanbul
There are no activities planned until our evening welcome meeting. After the meeting, opt to join your CEO and fellow travellers for dinner.
Get the most out of your time in Istanbul by pre-booking the following activity to experience before your tour starts: Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night pre-tour.
And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. This activity is available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, while any of the optional activities listed can be booked independently upon arrival in Istanbul.
Day 2
Istanbul/Çanakkale
Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.
It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.
Day 3
Çanakkale/Ayvalik/Bergama
Enjoy a visit to the world-famous city of Troy. Continue to Ayvalik. Be charmed by the blend of old Ottoman architecture, cobblestoned streets, and an attractive harbour.
In the afternoon, opt to charter a small boat from the harbour to cruise this beautiful area. After, head to waterside restaurants for a sunset drink.
Day 4
Bergama/Selçuk
Enjoy a free morning in Bergama before travelling to Selçuk, the base for exploring the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Ephesus.
Head to town and enjoy some free time to explore.
Day 5
Selçuk
With free time, choose to pre-book a traditional Selcuk cooking class, walk to the remains of St John's Basilica, visit the Mosque of Isa Bey or wander the streets of this vibrant Turkish town. Another option is to catch a local “dolmus” bus to the picturesque village of Şirince (8km/5 mi) to sample some local wine or shop for crafts. For dedicated sunseekers, the beach at Pamucaki is also within reach.
Day 6
Selçuk/Pamukkale
Visit the famous white cliffs of Pamukkale and the ancient site of Hierapolis.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis is evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the second century BC.
Day 7
Pamukkale/Istanbul
Take a short flight to İstanbul. After settling in, depart for a walking tour of the city.
Each tour will be a bit different, allowing your CEO to point out their favourite spots. See highlights that may include the Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) and the Topkapi Palace. With a little extra time, return to explore these sights in depth.
Day 8
Istanbul
Your tour might be finished, but the adventure’s far from over. Pre-book the following activity to experience after your tour ends: Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night in Istanbul.
And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. This activity is available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, or it can be booked upon arrival in Istanbul.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (7 nts).
Meals
Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 0, Dinners: 0
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Mar 26
from £678Apr 26
from £678May 26
from £1,012Jun 26
from £942Jul 26
from £942Aug 26
from £942Sep 26
from £1,124Oct 26
from £969Mar 27
from £969Apr 27
from £969May 27
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from £969Jul 27
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from £969Sep 27
from £969Oct 27
from £969
- Save 32%Sun 5 Apr 2026 > Sun 12 Apr 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£999Best offer£678Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 32%Fri 10 Apr 2026 > Fri 17 Apr 2026Guaranteed DeparturePay Monthly£999Best offer£678Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 32%Sun 19 Apr 2026 > Sun 26 Apr 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£999Best offer£678Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 32%Sun 26 Apr 2026 > Sun 3 May 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£999Best offer£678Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
Customer reviews & ratings
Educational and interesting. So far only good experiences.
Oscar Oct, 2024 VerifiedBooked this trip super last minute and couldn?t be happier. I felt like it was great value for money. The tour leader Isil was absolutely fantastic, very knowledgeable, friendly, made great restaurant recommendations and she provided guided tours at monuments. Transportation was convenient and clean made covering so much ground in such a short time easy. They cram in a lot of activities in only a few days but the tour was well paced and didn?t feel rushed. Was lucky to have a small group with good vibes which helped as well. Would highly recommend wish I could have done the longer one! Loved the tour! I felt it was value for money happy with pace, activities and tour guide.
Olivia Oct, 2024 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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