Real Turkey tour

Welcome to Istanbul – the metropolis where European and Middle Eastern cultures meet. You will have an important welcome meeting at 6:00 PM this evening to meet your local guide and fellow travelers. Until then, you might want to go out and wander the city streets or seek out a real doner kebab and indulge in some authentic lokum (which pairs well with a cup of Turkish coffee). If you arrive a day or two early, you might consider taking a day trip to the Princes' Islands. After tonight's meeting, why not go out to dinner with the group and taste the fabulous local cuisine.

This morning, hop on a bus and a ferry to the shores of Gallipoli, a peninsula significant to Australians and New Zealanders. A pilgrimage site for many, it's hard to imagine the calm waters and peaceful landscape as the site of such a brutal battle during World War I. Immerse yourself in the reverence and serenity of the area and listen to the stories of heroism and camaraderie that shone through the tragedies of the war. You'll spend the night in Canakkale, a well-known university town, so you won't have any trouble finding something fun to do tonight. Whether you're relaxing on the banks of the Dardanelles with a drink or listening to a local band with some of your travel companions, there's plenty to keep you busy in this coastal city.

Ready to learn a bit about ancient history and mythological heroes? This morning, you'll have the chance to go on an excursion to the ruins of Troy, the famous walled city infiltrated by the Greeks after hiding in the enormous Trojan Horse. Explore the ancient walls, climb around the ruins from 4500 years ago and admire the Troad (the plains of Troy) towards the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli peninsula. Later, drive along the coast to Ayvalik, where your guide will take you on a walk to discover the fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish culture of the city. You will also visit the women of Copmadam, a local social enterprise that employs local women who recycle waste and produce accessories and home goods. For lunch, grab a snack with a local Ayvalik toast (a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings).

Today is your day to explore Ayvalik. Located on the edge of the Aegean Sea, there is no shortage of charming places to spend your free time. Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the rows of houses with terracotta roofs and lively cafes. The Greek stone houses of Kucukkoy, the art galleries, and the delicious pastries are worth a visit. You might also head to one of the many beaches in the area (such as Sarimsakli and Badavut) or to Cunda Island, which is full of Greek Orthodox churches. Tonight, you can join your group for an optional dinner where you might try some raki or balik with some of your fellow travelers. Located around a harbor, what better way to start the evening than with a drink at a harbor bar overlooking the Aegean islands? As the locals say, 'raki, balik, Ayvalik!'

This morning, take a local bus to the town of Selcuk. Upon arrival, take an orientation tour to get your bearings. Later, you can head to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Mark Antony and Cleopatra. This is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. You will be amazed by the sophistication of this ancient city, which had running water, public toilets, home heating, a medical institute, and Roman baths. The theater is also well-preserved, but perhaps the most fascinating structure is the library. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Travel eastward, inland, to Pamukkale, which literally translates to 'cotton castle'. Here, spectacular natural hot springs with a high calcium content pour over the edge of cliffs, creating bright white terraces, or 'cotton'. Why not take a dip and snap some photos - these springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC and are said to have healing properties. If you have Cleopatra on your mind after yesterday's stories, take a stroll through the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy a dip in what was her old pool, immersing yourself in the clear springs that were carved out as a gift from Marc. You can also visit the other ruins of the city - Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheater should not be missed. If you're lucky, tonight you might witness an epic sunset from the acropolis.

Today, head south to the coast of Turkey to admire the white buildings of Kas before setting off for Kekova. Right on the Mediterranean Sea coast, you'll explore this area and its ruins in the afternoon. You might spend time relaxing on the beach and enjoying the view of the island, swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, or walking through the Ancient City of Antiphellos. This area has been inhabited since the 4th century, so make sure to soak up some of its incredible history while you're here. At sunset, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations in Kekova, and look up again at the castle as it is brilliantly lit against the night sky.

Sailing in the Mediterranean is on the wish list of many for a reason, and today you can check it off your list. Hop on a boat and sail along the Turkish coast for a day, discovering the mysterious submerged ruins of an ancient Lycian city, exploring rock tombs, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, and skirting this incredible coastline. After a day of swimming, soaking up the sun, enjoying a delicious homemade meal, and exploring ancient lost worlds, return to Kekova for a free evening.

After breakfast, hop on a public bus to Antalya, the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It's hard to take a bad picture of Antalya with its cobblestone streets, the historic Old Town, the vibrant marina, and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. Explore the city with your group leader, perhaps ride the old Nostalgic Tram or head to Konyaalti Beach for some seaside relaxation. If you're in the mood for some last-minute history, visit some of the country's top museums, or the ancient city of Aspendos with its beautifully preserved Roman theatre. Tonight, why not try some food and shisha with your group - Antalya has a lively nightlife, so take advantage of it.

This morning, we say goodbye to those who are leaving and meet the new travel companions at a second meeting at 11. Then, jump directly on the bus and head north towards the enchanting city of Konya. The birthplace of Sufism (a belief and religious practice that seeks the truth of love and divine knowledge) and home of the famous whirling dervish, Konya is full of history and culture. While you're here, you can visit the Mevlana Museum - the former dervish school turned into a museum - where Rumi's mausoleum is located, a famous Sufi poet. For dinner, your leader can give you the best recommendations, so ask them where to find the tastiest kebab or where is the best place to drink to celebrate the second leg of your journey.

Today, we say goodbye to Konya and board a bus for Cappadocia, home to bizarre rock formations, fairy chimneys, and underground cities. Later in the morning, we descend underground to explore some of the 36 subterranean cities; these labyrinthine metropolises were carved into the earth thousands of years ago. Tonight, a local family will welcome you into their home for a traditional Turkish meal cooked at home. Afterward, you might want to explore the nightlife in Goreme, or attend a traditional sema performance of whirling dervishes.

You might have seen the iconic hot air balloons over Cappadocia online and this morning will be your chance to tick that epic experience off your bucket list. If you're up for it, get up early and take off as the sun rises over the otherworldly city. Heights not your thing? There are tons of fantastic viewpoints in the city where you can snap some photos or selfies as the sky fills with balloons. Later in the day, discover the highlights of the region by visiting Pigeon Valley and the Devrent Valley: your group leader will know all the best spots to stop at. You'll also have the opportunity to witness a traditional pottery demonstration with a local craftsman, who will reveal all the secrets to creating the perfect pottery. Later in the afternoon, why not grab some wine and find the perfect scenic spot to enjoy the sunset?

Today is your day to discover all that Cappadocia has to offer. If you feel like getting moving and stretching your legs, why not venture into the trekking of the Red Valley, which takes you through Meskindir and the Rose Valley. The natural sharp sandstone structures shine in the sun, and the trail leads you through a rock church with excellently preserved mural frescoes. If trekking is not for you, why not explore the markets and street vendors in town. There's an incredible wealth of Turkish artifacts on display, from ceramics to intricately woven carpets. Don't forget to visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, where you can explore fairy chimneys, rock churches, and ancient villages. Tonight, you will board an overnight bus that will take you to Istanbul, so settle in and sleep through the night.

Welcome to Istanbul! Your overnight bus will arrive in the capital of Turkey early this morning, so after leaving your luggage at the hotel, the day is yours to explore. With your group, you will set off on a tour of the historic peninsula, where you will be shown all the best spots of Istanbul and get an overview of the area. Your tour includes all the essential highlights for any traveler, including the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. After grabbing some lunch (borek and Turkish coffee, if you want something typical), why not explore this incredible city on foot and discover some hidden gems? Tonight, consult with your leader for the best places to dine, and perhaps gather the group to toast to your adventure.

This morning your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your group leader and fellow travelers. If you wish to spend more time discovering all that Istanbul has to offer, your leader will be able to give you the best advice to make the most of your time in the city. If you need to arrange additional accommodation, please get in touch with your booking agent in advance.