When you arrive in Turkey, you’ll be warmly greeted at the airport and taken to your hotel. You can check in and unwind or explore the city until you gather with your guide and the rest of the group in the hotel lobby at 7:00 PM. From there, we’ll enjoy an evening stroll through Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, taking the second-oldest metro in the world.

After touring panoramic Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, prepare to experience the Magic of Turkish Tavern Night in the historic  Cicek Pasajı (Flower Passage) and immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening. The Cicek Pasajı (Flower Passage) was built initially on the site of the Naum Theatre, which was destroyed by fire in 1870; it was transformed into a bustling passage filled with flower shops by Russian émigrés in the early 20th century. Today, it is a lively spot known for its restaurants, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere. The architecture is striking, with a blend of European styles reflecting its storied past. Prepare to enjoy a delightful selection of traditional mezes, tasty kebabs, and enticing desserts crafted from fresh ingredients and treasured recipes. 

After a couple of rounds of the Turkish drink Raki, you’ll be ready to groove to the rhythms of street musicians. Later, feel free to mingle and bond with the group at a relaxed gathering in local bars.

Today, we’ll embark on a guided tour of Istanbul's captivating old city. After breakfast, get ready to be enchanted by the timeless allure of this historic metropolis. Our adventure will lead us through the city's ancient core. We will visit iconic sites like the magnificent Hagia Sophia, the beautiful Blue Mosque, the historic Hippodrome of Constantinople,  the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Market via tram and walking. This will be a lengthy walking tour; please make sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothing. 

At day’s end, we’ll enjoy a Bosphorus cruise to take in the scenic vistas; your guide will provide intriguing insights about the beauty and significance of the Bosphorus. This will also be a great chance to bond with fellow travellers in a relaxed atmosphere, nurturing a sense of community and shared experience.

The itinerary for today will take us to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where we will gain insight into the bloody battles and glorious struggles of both sides that took place for eight and a half months, commencing on 25 April 1915.

Our experienced guide will provide an informative and engaging narration as we visit the battlefields, where birds now replace bullets in the blue sky.

Our itinerary includes the main landing beaches, such as Anzac Cove, the Anzac Commemorative Site, which attracts thousands of visitors annually, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair, where the August Offensive took place, as well as The Charge at The Nek, which was depicted in Peter Weir's movie Gallipoli.

This morning, we will explore the ancient city of Troy. You will have the opportunity to visit the Trojan Horse, Sacrificial Altars, the 3,700-year-old city walls, and the Houses of Troy I. Then, we will depart for the ancient city of Pergamon. 

The tour will include visits to unique sites such as the Temple of Athena, the Acropolis, the Ancient Library of Pergamum, the Altar of Zeus, the lower Agora, the Gymnasium situated on terraces, the Hellenistic Theater, and the Temple of Dionysus (the god of wine). After that, we'll head to the Ephesus region for an overnight stay. After checking into the hotel, you'll have some free time to relax.

This morning, a full-day tour with an early start is scheduled. You are to be picked up from your hotel to explore the wonders of Selcuk and the ancient city of Ephesus. Dating back to the 10th century BC, Ephesus is one of the world's most beautifully preserved ancient cities. It encompasses the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Temple of Hadrian. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to view the Library of Celsus. In the afternoon, we will depart for Fethiye. 

Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and optionally, visit the fish market for dinner in the city center.

Today, we will continue to visit the Saklikent Gorge Canyon. The gorge is one of the longest and most impressive in Turkey. Cold water flows into the canyon, while the imposing mountains create a spectacular atmosphere. You can walk into the gorge and uncover its secrets during your exploration. 

If you're looking for some excitement, consider trying river tubing in the refreshing waters of the canyon. Additionally, if you are interested, you can swim in the cold water of the canyon to refresh yourself. We will then continue to Pamukkale, where we will be staying overnight.

Today, we are scheduled to visit Pamukkale, also known as the "cotton castle" in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site renowned for its hot springs and travertine terraces formed by carbonate minerals deposited by flowing water. Visitors have the opportunity to indulge in the rejuvenating experience of bathing in its pools or explore the distinctive natural landscape. 

Following our visit to Pamukkale, we will proceed to Cappadocia, where we will have the chance to immerse ourselves in the breathtaking Turkish scenery and traverse through charming small towns and villages. Upon our arrival, we will complete the check-in process at the hotel and have some leisure time to unwind before embarking on our exploration of Cappadocia the following day.

Get ready for an early start as we have the option to enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed morning, you can start your day with a leisurely breakfast. 

We will embark on a journey to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Goreme and visit significant landmarks, including the Goreme Museum, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, and Cavusin. In the afternoon, we will have the opportunity to visit local handicraft manufacturers and gain insight into traditional art forms. Additionally, you are invited to attend an optional Turkish night event this evening, providing an opportunity for cultural immersion and entertainment.

In the morning, we will explore Derinkuyu Underground City, an extraordinary subterranean complex encompassing a church, wells, food stores, and stables, all situated 60 meters below ground. 

Next, we will continue our journey to Salt Lake, or Tuz Golu, a white/pink (depending on the time of year) salt kale that you may have seen on Instagram posts; situated in central Turkey and is renowned for its vast salt deposits and unique ecosystems. It is an essential habitat for various bird species, particularly during migration. The lake's striking white landscape and pink hues from salt-loving microorganisms make it a popular spot for photography and tourism. Following this visit, we will proceed to Istanbul, with an expected late evening arrival.

Breakfast and check out. Sadly, it's the end of the tour. Today is the time to say farewell to your new friends with lifetime memories.