Classical Turkey with Anzac Commemorations

Embark on a full day guided tour of some of the best sites of Istanbul, the city where east meets west. Originally founded as Byzantium, then known as Constantinople, after Constantine the Great, Istanbul is home to many fascinating sites. The first stop on your tour is Topkapi Palace Museum, residence of the Ottoman Sultans from 1453 to 1852. Continue to the Blue Mosque built between 1609 and 1616 and famous for its blue ceramic tiles; the Hippodrome which was once the centre of life where chariot racing and other public events took place; and view the incredible Hagia Sophia Mosque from the outside – originally built in 537ad this marvel of engineering is famed for the giant dome, an incredible feat for the time period and considered as one of the world’s greatest architectural wonders. Your last stop will be the famous Grand Bazaar. With over 60 streets and 4000 shops, there is a bargain to be found for everyone here.

After breakfast, depart for Ankara to visit the impressive Anıtkabir and its museum, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the national hero and founder of the modern Republic of Türkiye. Following the visit, continue the journey through the Anatolian heartland to Cappadocia, arriving later in the day for an overnight stay.

Optional (supplement applies): Early morning hot air balloon tour

Embark on a full-day exploration of Cappadocia, renowned for its surreal landscapes of “fairy chimneys”, ancient cave dwellings and remarkable history. Discover the fascinating Kaymaklı Underground City, explore the rock-cut churches and frescoes of the Göreme Open-Air Museum, and visit the impressive natural fortress of Uçhisar with its sweeping views across the valleys of Cappadocia.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before gaining insight into the region’s rich artisan traditions, including handwoven carpets, colourful Turkish tiles, onyx craftsmanship and traditional pottery-making.

Optional (supplement applies): Night Tour with a Turkish Show and dinner

Depart early for Pamukkale. En route, visit the magnificent Sultanhanı Caravanserai, a superb 13th-century Seljuk masterpiece that once welcomed traders and travellers along the ancient Silk Road. After exploring the caravanserai, continue the journey through the Anatolian countryside to Pamukkale for an overnight stay.

Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, derived its name from the striking natural landscape and is famous for its travertine terraces made from minerals deposited by thermal waters. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, with its spectacular ruins and magnificent Necropolis, one of the best preserved in Turkey offering an insight into the funerary practices of the Greco-Roman era. Marvel at the spectacular lime terraces cascading down the side of the hill before travelling on to Selcuk to visit the Temple of Artemis ”one of the seven wonders of the ancient world”. Proceed to Izmir for a two-night stay.

Today discover the ancient city of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of Turkey’s most significant ancient cities. Explore its marbled streets, visit the magnificent Library of Celsus, the impressive open-air Amphitheatre, and the Temple of Hadrian dating back to the 2nd Century. Lunch today will be at s local restaurant. Continue to the village of Sirince, where you can experience one of the most beautiful villages in Turkey and take the opportunity to taste their delicious wines, before returning to Izmir.  

Depart early for Bergama to visit the impressive Asklepion of Pergamon, one of the ancient world’s most renowned healing centres, with remarkably well-preserved ruins. Continue to legendary Troy, famed as the setting of the epic Trojan War and immortalised in Homer’s tales. Later, travel to Çanakkale for an overnight stay.

Today you will visit the village of Kilitbahir, situated on the eastern shore of the Gallipoli Peninsula and dominated by the historic Kilitbahir Fortress. Late this evening, head to Anzac Cove to join the gathering crowds and soak up the unique atmosphere ahead of the dawn commemorations. It is a night filled with anticipation and reflection — a night where sleep is very much secondary to the experience.
Note: There is no hotel accommodation tonight as the group remains at Anzac Cove for the overnight commemorations.

Full day dedicated for attendance at the Dawn Ceremony and Anzac Day commemorations. There is at least a 7km walk to Chunuk Bair. You will pass through various security measures before attending the official ANZAC commemorations. Please prepare to be patient during the security procedures. Participate in the commemorative Dawn Service to remember and honour the countless lives lost. Following the Dawn Service, pay your respects at the battlefields and join the international services. In the afternoon drive back to Istanbul where accommodation is reserved for one night.  *Note: a simple boxed breakfast is included today.

After breakfast you will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your onward flight.

• 24/7 local operator support in Turkey
• 9 nights’ hotel accommodation
• Breakfast daily at hotels
• 2 lunches
• 5 dinners
• Arrival transfer on Day 1 by private vehicle Istanbul Airport (IST)/hotel | Departure transfer on Day 11 by private vehicle hotel/Istanbul (IST) airport. Surcharge applies for transfers from/to Sabiha Gocken (SAW) airport
• Transportation by air-conditioned coach
• Complimentary 4G Wi-Fi internet service onboard the coach
• Sightseeing as per itinerary
• Professional English-speaking guides
• Museum entrance fees
• Porterage at hotels
• Local taxes and service charges
• Turkey Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Travel Insurance (compulsory)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above