A slice of Turkey: 1 week loop from Istanbul
Embark on a short journey that offers a superb slice of Turkey. Travel from lively Istanbul and the sobering Gallipoli Peninsula, south to the Aegean coast and then on to the ancient site of Ephesus and the therapeutic waters of Pamukkale.
From £720 (Maximum group size 12)
Enjoy the highlights of this fascinating country on a week long adventure. Stroll the lively backstreets of Istanbul, sip hot tea with locals in Ayvalik, discover the secrets of ancient Hierapolis, reflect on WW1 in Gallipoli, swim the balmy waters of the Aegean, feast on local cuisine, wander the marble streets of Ephesus, experience the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale.
Summary Itinerary
The start point Hotel Constantine is a boutique hotel featuring modern rooms with air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, hair dryers and double glazed windows. It is located in the suburb on Eminonu, close to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and Topkapi Palace.
Days 1-2
Istanbul: This magical city of minarets, mosques and markets will inspire and delight. Get to know Sultanahmet or take a stroll past the thousands of shops in the Grand Bazaar.
Day 3
Gallipoli Peninsula: Take an optional trip to Troy where a little imagination can make the history of the ruins come to life. Travel to Gallipoli and reflect on the tragedy of WWI amid the moving memorials and windswept scenery.
Days 4-5
Ayvalik (May-Oct): Kick back on a boat cruise on the azure Aegean Sea. During winter, travel to Bergama and discover the biblical Red Basilica, the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse and the Pergamum Acropolis. At the end of the day enjoy local hospitality at a Turkish guesthouse.
Day 6
Selcuk: Once the heart of the great East Roman Empire, ruined Ephesus still retains some of its past glory. Explore the ancient Roman ruins, delve deeper into the fascinating history at the Ephesus Museum or work out sore muscles at a hamam.
Day 7
Pamukkale: Relax amid the rejuvenating hot springs and gleaming white terraces of Pamukkale, then explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis. During winter, stop by Afrodisias - the city dedicated to the Greek goddess of love and beauty.
Day 8
Istanbul: Take a morning ferry ride across to the European shore to soak up views of Istanbul's stunning skyline. Make sure to see the elegant Topkapi Palace with its gilded harem before saying goodbye to wonderful Turkey.
What price includes
- Trip accompanied by a group leader
- Guided walk through the Gallipoli Peninsula
- Boat trip in Ayvalik (Apr - Sep)
- Visit ancient site of Pergamum (Oct - Mar)
- Guesthouses/hotels (4nts), family guesthouse (2 nts)
- Carbon offset: 162 kg per person
Location
Plan your journey by train
Meeting point:
The Constantine Hotel, Istanbul
Istanbul's Sirkeci train station
Transfer to meeting point:
Guests make their own way to meeting point
The start point hotel The Constantine Hotel is a 10 minute taxi ride from Sirkeci train station.
How to get there:
Train from London to Istanbul
Plan your journey by train
Finish point:
The Constantine Hotel, Istanbul
Istanbul's Sirkeci train station
Transfer to finish point:
Guests make their own way to station
The end point hotel 'The Constantine Hotel' is a 10 minute taxi ride from Sirkeci train station.
How to get back:
Train from Istanbul to London
