Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive Istanbul
Our trip starts today in Istanbul - a trove of treasures waiting to be discovered. If you have not pre-booked an arrival transfer you will find taxis available on arrival at Istanbul Airport. Make sure you agree the price before you set off into town. Our hotel is located within walking distance of all the main sights, so if arriving early there is time to soak up the atmosphere and explore on foot. We recommend arriving early so you can visit to the colourful Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. There are no formal activities planned for today, so you may arrive at any time. This evening we meet our tour guide and fellow travel companions at a Welcome meeting (details will be posted on the hotel noticeboard). Your tour guide will collect your local payment of EUR100 at this meeting. We can then join our tour guide for an introduction to some fabulous Turkish cuisine in a street side cafe (optional).

Day 2
Istanbul - Kayseri
This morning our guide shows us the treasures of the Old Town including the Topkapi Palace, the iconic Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome. The afternoon is free to do our own exploration - perhaps barter for a bargain, enjoy a cruise on the Bosphorus or indulge in a traditional hamam (Turkish bath), before we catch an overnight bus to Cappadocia. (B)

Day 3
Kayseri - Cappadocia
After a morning arrival in Kayseri, we depart by bus for Cappadocia (1 hour), travelling through typical Anatolian landscape via the salt lake (Tuz Golu) - one of the richest salt beds in the world. We stop to visit Derinkuyu – an incredible underground city that descends eight floors below the surface. Late in the afternoon, we arrive in Cappadocia - an extraordinary region that has bewitched travellers for centuries. It was formed thousands of years ago as volcanic ash settled, hardened into soft rock and then eroded, forming strange and fantastic spires, domes and gorges.(Approx driving time 5.30 hours)

Day 4
Cappadocia
We drive to the top of the trail at the beginning of the Akvadi (White Valley) and walk amongst fruit gardens and vineyards to arrive in Uçhisar around noon. We visit the village and high viewpoint known as The Fortress. In the afternoon we walk in Pigeon Valley before heading back to Goreme. We also have the chance to discover the local handicrafts of carpet making and pottery. Tonight is free to experience Goreme’s nightlife or there is also an option of attending an original Whirling Dervish 'Sema' performance. (B)

Day 5
Cappadocia - Pamukkale
Today is a travelling day; we farewell Cappadocia and take the long journey by local bus to Pamukkale. (B)

Day 6
Pamukkale - Selcuk
This morning we visit Pamukkale, with its spectacular natural pools, shelves and ridges. It was formed by a spring with high calcium bicarbonate content, which cascaded over the edge of the cliffs, leaving calcium deposits. There is also the chance to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its abundance of temples and religious structures. We then take a local bus to Selçuk, our base for exploring one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. After an orientation tour we are free to explore Selçuk, a town full of history and packed with artifacts and relics that reflects its past as an ancient fortress on Ayasoluk Hill. (Approx driving time 6 hours) (B)

Day 7
Selcuk - Ayvalik
This morning we explore the site of Ephesus - the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world. Ephesus, founded by Ionian Greeks in the 11th century BC and brought to full flower under Roman rule, was always an important religious centre. We can walk the marble streets once trodden by Antony and Cleopatra and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and the wonderfully restored Library of Celsus. Close by is the last home of the Virgin Mary who, as legend has it, came here accompanied by St John and lived out her days in this beautiful spot. We then take a local bus to Ayvalik, our base for the night. A drink at a harbourside bar is a great way to enjoy the sunset. (Approx driving time - 7 hours) (B)

Day 8
Ayvalik - Canakkale
This morning we enjoy an orientation tour of Ayvalik with its colourful Ottoman-Greek houses, cobblestone streets and lively cafes. It's then on to Çanakkale. (Approx driving time 3.30 hours)

Day 9
Canakkale - Gallipoli - Istanbul
We cross the Dardanelles by ferry to the shores of Gallipoli, a place of immense significance to Australians and New Zealanders. It is a spot of pilgimage and reverence and the calm lapping waters belie the murderous campaign that took place here. This now serene site, located at Turkey’s most westerly point, played a crucial role in 1915 for Allied forces in the First World War that included other Commonwealth and British troops, as well as the French and Turkish. For those who wish, there is also the possibility of organising an excursion to Troy, where we can explore the ancient walls, climb around the ruins and gaze across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the waters of the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. This afternoon we take a bus back to Istanbul where we spend our last night. (approx 5.30 hours driving time) (B)

Day 10
End Istanbul
Our tour ends after breakfast in Istanbul. Additional accommodation can be booked if you wish to further explore this great city. Alternatively you may wish to book a departure transfer to connect with an onward flight - enquire at time of booking. (B)

More information from The Imaginative Traveller:

• Company profile, experience, and history
• View all of their trips