Turkey Ala Carte

This morning depart Ottoman influenced Istanbul. You will be transferred by private vehicle to Istanbul Airport for your flight to the natural wonderland of Cappadocia. On arrival you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. Be captivated with surreal landscapes, fairy chimneys and cave dwellings as you check into your cave style hotel in these otherworldly surroundings. Remainder of the day at leisure.

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.

This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Nevsehir airport for your flight to Izmir. On arrival, you will be transferred by private vehicle 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.

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.

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.

Morning departure by tourist bus for a visit of Pergamon. Here you will visit the impressive Acropolis of Pergamum, perched on a high, steep-sided hill - one of the highest and most magnificent Acropolis in ancient history. Continue across the Ida Mountain to Troy. Admire the ruins and a replica of the Trojan Horse, a wooden horse said to have been used during the Trojan War by the Greeks to enter the city of Troy and win the war. Continue to Canakkale and the Gallipoli Peninsula for an overnight stay.

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.

A day at leisure to explore the Galata and Karakoy vibrant streets, historic landmarks, trendy cafes, and stunning Bosphorus views, blending Istanbul’s rich past and modern charm.  

This evening you will “Dine 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.

This morning you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Istanbul airport for your onward flight.

• 24/7 local operator support in Turkey
• 12-nights' hotel accommodation
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• 7 lunches
• 1 dinner
• Arrival and departure airport transfers by private vehicle
• Air-conditioned tourist bus Kusadasi/Eceabat & Eceabat/Istanbul
• Economy class domestic flights Istanbul/Kayseri & Kayseri/Izmir
• Sightseeing tours with professional English-speaking guides (small group or regular tours)
• Entrance fees
• 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