Single Room and Solo Traveller prices available on request
Turkey Ala Carte
Independent Holiday with Small Group/Regular Sightseeing
13 Days ex Istanbul
Departs Daily
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of Turkey, where ancient wonders and cultural treasures converge in a seamless tapestry on this tailor-made programme designed for the independent traveller.
More than a tour, this program is a combination of flexible modules designed for the independent traveller. Mix and match, upgrade your accommodation, add extra nights, choose only 2 out of the 3 modules if you are short on time, upgrade to private sightseeing and transfers ... the options are endless, meaning you can design your perfect independent holiday to experience Turkey the way you want to.
Highlights:
- Discover the soul of Istanbul in the heart of its historic Ottoman treasures
- Venture into the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, where surreal rock formations and hot air balloon-dotted skies create a dreamlike panorama
- Explore the time-honoured ruins of Ephesus, a testament to classical grandeur
- Honour the sacrifices at Gallipoli's hallowed grounds, a poignant tribute to valor
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey. On arrival you will be met in the arrivals area by a representative of our local operator then transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the Old City where accommodation is reserved for three nights. Remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul (BL)
Embark on a small group tour of Istanbul today. Begin your morning at Topkapi Palace, marvelling at its treasures and imagining the Sultan's life. Your journey continues with a stroll through the bustling Grand Bazaar, home to over 5,000 shops offering everything from rugs to lamps. Lunch invites you to savour authentic Turkish cuisine at a cozy local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Hippodrome, once Istanbul's social hub, followed by the stunning Blue Mosque adorned with hand-painted tiles, and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture. Istanbul's charm will captivate you instantly.
Note: Topkapi Palace closed Tuesdays | Grand Bazaar closed Sundays
Day 3: Istanbul (B)
Day at leisure or optional Istanbul experiences.
Optional (surcharges apply):
* Spice Market and Bosphorus cruise
* Turkish Bath Experience
* Whirling Dervishes Show
* Turkish Bath Experience
* Whirling Dervishes Show
Day 4: Istanbul – Cappadocia (B)
Bid farewell to Ottoman-inspired Istanbul this morning. Transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight to Cappadocia, a land of surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings. Upon arrival, settle into your cave-style hotel amidst this otherworldly setting. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, followed by dinner at your hotel.
Day 5: Cappadocia (BL)
After breakfast, embark on a memorable day trip starting at Göreme Open Air Museum, renowned for its Byzantine cave churches. Continue to Pashabagi, also known as Monks Valley, and Devrent Valley, nicknamed "Imagination Valley" for its surreal rock formations. After lunch, explore Avanos and Urgup, known for traditional pottery, with a pottery demonstration included. At the end of your tour you will be returned to your hotel.
Day 6: Cappadocia (BL)
Optional Excursion (surcharge applies): Early morning Balloon ride
Start your day with an optional hot air balloon ride before sunrise. A light breakfast will be served while the pilots check conditions, then take off for a breathtaking aerial view of Cappadocia’s unique landscape. After a one-hour flight, celebrate with a traditional champagne toast and receive a commemorative flight certificate.
After breakfast at your hotel, set off on the South Cappadocia Tour. Your first stop is Uchisar Castle, offering panoramic views of the region. Continue to the Underground City, one of Cappadocia’s most well-preserved subterranean complexes. Then, hike through Love Valley and Rose Valley, named for the striking rose-colored rock formations. Conclude with a visit to Cavusin Village before returning to your hotel.
Day 7: Cappadocia - Kusadasi (B)
This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Nevsehir airport for your flight to Izmir. On arrival, you will be transferred to your Kusadasi hotel where accommodation has been reserved for three nights. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure, taking in Kusadasi’s vibrant atmosphere and scenic coastline.
Day 8: Kusadasi - Ephesus - Kusadasi (BL)
Today, journey to Ephesus, an extraordinary ancient city reflecting Hellenistic and Roman grandeur. Begin with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. This sacred site is revered by both Christians and Muslims. Every year, on August 15th, a ceremony is organized to commemorate Mary's Assumption. Next, explore the ancient city’s highlights, including the Odeon, Hadrian Temple, Celsius Library, and the grand Ephesus Theatre. The day concludes with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Kusadasi.
Day 9: Kusadasi (Pamukkale Day Tour) (BL)
Today, visit Pamukkale, known for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. After lunch in Pamukkale, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the well-preserved Necropolis, Roman Bath, and the Apollo Temple before walking along the natural thermal terraces. You’ll also have the option to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, a historic thermal bath. After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 10: Kusadasi - Pergamon - Troy - Canakkale (BL)
Depart Kusadasi by tourist bus and travel to Pergamon, home to a spectacular ancient Acropolis perched high above the city. Explore its remarkable ruins before continuing to Troy, where you’ll see the legendary site of the Trojan War and a replica of the famous wooden horse. Finally, head to Canakkale and the Gallipoli Peninsula, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 11: Canakkale - Istanbul (BL)
Morning at leisure to wander around the area. Meet your local guide and after lunch at a local restaurant, depart on a guided tour of Gallipoli. Visits will include Brighton Beach, Beach Cemetery, ANZAC Cove, Ariburnu Cemetery, ANZAC Commemorative Site, Mehmetcik Statue, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Johnston's Jolly (Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels), Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery, The Nek Cemetery and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial. Upon completion of the tour take the tourist bus back to Istanbul arriving around 10.00pm in the evening. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 12: Istanbul (BD)
A free day to explore Istanbul at your own pace. Wander through Galata and Karaköy, experiencing their vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and trendy cafés. Admire breathtaking Bosphorus views, soaking in the blend of ancient and modern Istanbul.
This evening Dining out in a Turkish Way (6.30pm – 11.30pm). Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s local food culture with an authentic dining experience. Start with a traditional simit at a local bakery, then visit a tea house where locals gather to socialize. Continue to an Ocakbaşı (self-service barbecue restaurant) for delicious grilled kebabs paired with Turkish raki. Pass by bustling eateries before arriving at a Meyhane (traditional tavern) to enjoy meze, raki, and live Turkish music. End the night with a bowl of tripe soup, a favorite late-night dish, and a cup of strong Turkish coffee before returning to your hotel with unforgettable memories.
Day 13: Istanbul (B)
This morning you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Istanbul airport for your onward flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 12-nights' accommodation based on selected hotel category
- Arrival and departure transfers by private vehicle
- Air-conditioned tourist bus from Kusadasi to Eceabat and Eceabat to Istanbul
- Domestic flights Istabul to Kayseri and Kayseri to Izmir
- Sightseeing tours with professional English-speaking guides (small group or regular tours)
- Entrance fees
- Breakfast Daily; 7 Lunches; 1 Dinner
- Assistance of local representatives
- 24/7 local operator support in Turkey
- Turkey Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Departure taxes
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
The hotel selection may change – please use this as a guideline only.
Istanbul (Old City)
Superior Tourist Class: Arena Hotel
First Class: Celal Sultan
Canakkale
Superior Tourist Class: Hera Cave Suites
First Class: Hera Cave Suites
Kusadasi
Superior Tourist Class: Efe Boutique Hotel
First Class: La Vista Boutique Hotel & Spa
Cappadocia
Superior Tourist Class: Artur Hotel
First Class: Buyuk Truva Hotel
Istanbul (Karakoy)
Superior Tourist Class: Nordstern Galata Hotel
First Class: Nordstern Galata Hotel
Dress Codes
Modest dress is required for entrance to holy sites – Men: Long pants, Women – skirt or long pants and shoulders covered.
Hotels
On coach tours, hotels in regional areas (i.e Pamukkale) can be of a slightly lower standard than the other hotels on the tour.
Sightseeing
All sightseeing tours require a moderate amount of walking around historical / cultural sites. This is particularly true in Cappadocia where walks can be up to 1 or 2 km long and where a good level of fitness will ensure you get a maximum enjoyment from your visit. On some tours you may visit a carpet or handicraft shop where the locals will show how their crafts are made. There is no obligation to buy any products at any of these places.
Optional Tours
Optional tours offered during coach tours may not be guaranteed (even if pre-booked ex New Zealand) as they are subject to a minimum number of participants.
Private Sightseeing tours (if booked)
If a private sightseeing tour is booked it is important that you discuss the days arrangements with the guide as the touring programmes have a degree of flexibility. It is important to discuss with the guide so that any specific requirements can be met or addressed at the time.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
