Türkiye: 11-Day Luxury Small-Group Tour from Istanbul to Cappadocia with Gallipoli Visit & Bosphorus Cruise
Unveil Türkiye’s mesmerising treasures, culinary delights and UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites on this 11-day, luxury small-group tour (max. 16 travellers). Staying in luxurious five-star accommodation throughout, you’ll go behind the scenes of ancient sites with your expert guide while having ample time to explore at your own pace.
Bargain at the Grand Bazaar in enchanting Istanbul before paying your respects to soldiers passed on the shores of Gallipoli. Marvel at the huge Trojan Horse at Troy and witness the ruins of once-glorious cities steeped in mythological and historical significance. Discover the port city of Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, sink into the mineral-rich thermal waters of Pammukale, descend into the storied depths of Kaymakli Underground City and sail across the glistening Bosphorus strait on an unforgettable cruise between two continents. You’ll also have the chance to taste authentic cuisine with nine exceptional included dinners and get hands-on with carpet-weaving and pottery-making workshops — two of the finest and oldest crafts in Türkiye.
Your journey takes you to: Istanbul — Gallipoli — Çanakkale – Troy — Pergamum — Izmir — Ephesus — Pamukkale — Konya — Cappadocia — Ankara — Istanbul.
Optional activities: Tailor-make your own adventure with a myriad of optional activities: ascend above Cappadocia’s ethereal ‘fairy chimneys’ on a hot air balloon flight, find yourself in awe of whirling dervishes during a live show, or conclude your adventure with an unforgettable Turkish dining experience.
Book with Confidence: We work directly with our trusted partners and provide 24/7 customer service to ensure that no matter what happens, we’re here to help. If your escape is affected by Covid-19 restrictions, we will do our best to assist you with a date change or provide you with a Luxury Escapes credit for another Limited Time Lux Exclusive accommodation, tour or cruise offer, less any unrecoverable costs; excludes flights. Find out more.
The Experiences — Embark on a bespoke tour through enchanting cities and UNESCO World Heritage-listed gems
From the ancient city of Ephesus to the lofty Byzantine dome of Hagia Sophia, Türkiye has more than its fair share of world-famous sites and UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins.
Experience their legacy on this luxury, small-group tour. Unearth the unique charms of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet (Old City), with its Hippodrome — the scene of many a chariot race enjoyed by Byzantine emperors — Basilica Cistern, 17th-century Blue Mosque and sprawling Grand Bazaar.
Take a journey through time as you explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient city of Troy, the site of the legendary Trojan War and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Hear the tales of World War I’s historic battlefields and memorial sites in the Gallipoli Peninsula, the scene of one of the most significant battles in Australia and New Zealand’s war history.
Plunge into the serenity of the famous Pamukkale hot springs, gleaming white terraces overflowing with warm, mineral-rich waters, and discover Ephesus’ well-preserved ruins, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore Cappadocia’s pink- and gold-hued ‘fairy chimneys’ and descend beneath it all at the underground city, before finding middle ground in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Goreme Open Air Museum.
The Hotels — Five-star luxury accommodation with unique character
Experience Türkiye’s ancient history alongside modern comfort with handpicked luxury five-star hotels, each providing a luxurious retreat after adventurous days.
Nestled among picturesque gardens in the heart of the city, Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus is an iconic hotel with resort-style amenities and a storied past spanning six decades. Relax in your beautifully designed guest room complete with a private balcony overlooking the glistening Bosphorus or enchanting city and unwind with a range of first-class facilities including two pools and a Turkish spa.
Çanakkale’s Kolin Hotel features heated pools, a bubbly jacuzzi and pristine gardens with views across the Strait, while the deluxe Swissotel Büyük Efes in Izmir boasts a fabulous location overlooking the spectacular Kordon Promenade and the Aegean Sea. Located only moments away from the ancient Hierapolis ruins, Spa Hotel Colossae Thermal features lavish outdoor and thermal pools and Konya’s ultra-modern Ramada Plaza offers lavish comforts, superior service and impressive architecture.
Spacious and bright, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Avanos is set in the heart of Türkiye’s beautiful Cappadocia region close to the underground cities and fairy chimneys of Goreme Open Air Museum. Located in the historic centre of Ankara, Ankara HiltonSA is an elegant and stylish hotel with a cosy lounge — the perfect place to share stories and drinks with newfound friends.
Your tour begins and ends at Istanbul Airport (IST).
Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. Please do NOT book your flights until your tour is confirmed.
Please book your flights to arrive in Istanbul by 2pm on Day 1 in time for your welcome meeting. Departure flights can be booked any time after 11am on Day 11.
Private roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.
Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Istanbul on your chosen tour start date.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements. Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Important Destination Information:
Time zone: GMT +3
Telephone: +90
Currency: Turkish lira
Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.
Language: Turkish
Climate: Cold, snowy winters (December-March) and hot, dry summers (June, July and August), though nights remain cool.
Dress code: Relaxed but respectful, especially when visiting religious institutions.
Day 1: Arrive Istanbul, Turkey
Welcome to Istanbul. On arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), you will be met by a local representative and transferred to the five-star Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus where your incredible adventure begins. A magical city that marvellously merges European and Asian influences, Istanbul is full of intriguing sights, ancient wonders and myriad examples of east and west blends, from its spellbinding architecture to its exceptional cuisine. If you arrive early, perhaps wander the atmospheric streets and discover what this captivating city has to offer. Alternatively, enjoy the amenities of your luxurious hotel including an indoor and outdoor pool and Turkish baths.
This afternoon, join your Tour Director and fellow companions for a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby followed by an optional group dinner. Greet the diverse and incredibly tasteful Turkish cuisine and make sure to leave room for delicious desserts.
Accommodation: Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
Optional activity (charges apply): Group dinner – from EUR30–50 per person
Day 2: Istanbul
Journey to the heart of Istanbul Old Town and witness the perfect blend of ancient and modern unfold before you. Stroll with your expert local guide through the Hippodrome, visit the charming Blue Mosque and the mysterious Basilica Cistern and discover the beauty of the magnificent Hagia Sophia on a guided tour. Haggle your way through the famous Grand Bazaar, visit countless monuments and embrace the local culture.
In the afternoon, enjoy an unforgettable experience as you glide between two continents, Asia and Europe, on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise of the glittering Bosphorus. Afterwards, return to your five-star hotel for dinner and a wonderful night’s sleep.
Accommodation: Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 3: Istanbul – Gallipoli – Çanakkale
After a delicious breakfast, make your way to Gallipoli’s iconic shores on a scenic drive through Turkey’s picturesque countryside. Stop to recharge at the quaint village of Kesan and enjoy a delicious meal (charges apply). This afternoon, arrive in Gallipoli and pay your respects to the fallen Turkish and Australian soldiers who bravely fought here during World War I, a time in history that is still commemorated every year in April. Witness the now-green battlefields, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair and other important historical sites. Afterwards, continue towards Çanakkale on a picturesque ferry ride, arriving just in time for dinner.
Tonight, enjoy another five-star stay at the beautiful Kolin Hotel. Relax with a dip in one of the heated pools, treat yourself to a Turkish or Finnish bath or admire views across the Strait on a stroll through the surrounding gardens. The hotel is also home to volleyball, basketball and tennis courts, table tennis, air hockey and more — why not join your travel companions for a friendly game this evening?
Accommodation: Kolin Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 4: Çanakkale – Troy – Pergamon – Izmir
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast in preparation for a day filled with epic adventure. This morning, visit the ancient city of Troy and witness the ruins of this once glorious city which holds a special place in both mythology and history. Pose with the famous Trojan Horse before departing for Pergamon. Home to healing waters and ruins of the Asklepion Medical Centre, it is one of the most important centres of healing of the Roman world.
After this culture-rich experience, conclude your day at the seaside metropolitan Izmir and your accommodation for the evening — Swissotel Büyük Efes İzmir. Set within a landscape of breathtaking gardens, this five-star hotel overlooks the spectacular Kordon Promenade and the Aegean Sea and is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Turkish culture. Sample seafood tonight at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Swissotel Büyük Efes İzmir
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 5: Izmir – Ephesus – Pamukkale
Today, drive along the coast to the amazing ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ephesus. Stroll through this beautifully preserved ancient city and the impressive library followed by a short ride to Virgin Mary’s house in the mountains – where she is believed to have lived her final days. Next, enjoy an afternoon of culinary discovery at a lovely restaurant in the countryside, famous for its delicious gözleme, a savoury stuffed Turkish flatbread (charges apply).
Continue your journey inland to your next five-star retreat — Spa Hotel Colossae Thermal — located in the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. On arrival, rest up and relax or perhaps savour the spa or massage services of this lavish hotel, followed by a lovely evening meal with your travel companions.
Accommodation: Spa Hotel Colossae Thermal
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6: Pamukkale – Konya
After breakfast, head to Pamukkale and sink into the mineral-rich depths of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed hot springs. Walk in the shallow pools with the terraces of snow-white travertine unfolding before you. Famously known for its mineral-rich waters and healing properties, the Pamukkale region has welcomed endless visitors over millennia. Delve into history at the ancient city Hierapolis and its majestic amphitheatre of 15,000 seats and ever-impressive acoustics.
Your journey continues towards Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes. Check in to the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Konya — a beautifully designed five-star hotel that features majestic architecture and modern amenities in the heart of Konya. Relax over a delicious dinner featuring Turkish and international cuisine.
Accommodation: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Konya
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7: Konya – Cappadocia
Immerse yourself in diverse Turkish culture today, beginning with Karatay Madrasa — a centre for education and architectural beauty with origins spanning back to the eighth century. Continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana where you will have the opportunity to explore the ideas and works of this famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century. From cultural to natural wonders: travel inland towards the other-worldly Cappadocia, one of the most iconic sites in Turkey. This famous region is adorned with stunning caves and fairy chimneys: unique formations of eroded volcanic rocks. Enjoy a visit to Avanos, famous for its top-quality clay, and learn all about pottery-making with an interactive workshop.
After a long day of cultural discovery, retreat to your five-star hotel — the beautiful DoubleTree Hilton Hotel Avanos — and join your group for a relaxing dinner.
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8: Cappadocia
Rise and shine for the sunrise of a lifetime on an optional hot-air balloon flight over the magical fairy chimneys (additional cost). A bucket-list item for all keen travellers, it is an experience not to be missed (please bear in mind that this optional experience is dependent on weather conditions). As you disembark your balloon, you will get the chance to explore the wondrous formations up close at Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The soft rock has allowed for both nature and people to carve incredible underground cities, chapels, cave houses and much more. Here you’ll witness the wonders of nature as well as each culture engraved in the fabric of this marvellous geography.
Later on, delve into one of the finest and oldest crafts of Turkey on a visit to a carpet-weaving workshop. This evening, relax at your hotel over dinner and perhaps witness the unique ritual of the whirling dervishes at a live show — an unforgettable experience (additional cost). You will also have the opportunity to join an optional wine tasting session or Turkish Night show (additional cost).
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Optional activities (charges apply):
- Hot air balloon flight from EUR110 per person (may increase up to EUR250 during high season)
- Wine tasting: from EUR8–10 per adult
- Turkish night: from EUR40 per person
- Whirling dervishes from EUR25 per person
Day 9: Cappadocia – Ankara
Start an unforgettable day by exploring the famous underground city of Kaymakli where ancient Christians took refuge to escape raids and wars for centuries. Here you will discover the complex network of underground tunnels, storerooms, burial chambers and chapels dating back to various eras. Together with the unique geology, each civilization and culture have shaped its heritage over thousands of years into a one-of-a-kind experience for all travellers.
Later, take the scenic journey to Turkey’s capital, Ankara, and visit the impressive Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Here you’ll discover countless ancient civilizations that have dominated Anatolia throughout history before checking into the five-star Ankara HiltonSA. After dinner at the hotel this evening, enjoy time at leisure to explore the treasures of Ankara at your own pace.
Accommodation: Ankara HiltonSA
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10: Ankara – Istanbul
Today begins with an intriguing visit to Anitkabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk – the final resting place of the first President of the Republic of Turkey. It is a location sacred to Turkish people, a glorious yet calming place of great importance. Continue the return journey to Istanbul through the scenic Anatolian countryside, stopping along the way for a lunch break in the mountainous natural surrounds of Bolu.
Arrive back in Istanbul this afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps returning to your favourite sites from earlier in the tour. Dinner is included at your hotel tonight, but if you’re up for a final cultural adventure, why not join the optional Turkish Night with Dinner (additional cost)?
Accommodation: Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Optional activity (additional charge): Turkish Night – from EUR70 per person
Day 11: Istanbul
Your marvellous adventure comes to an end over a final breakfast with your newfound friends. Make sure to bid farewell and exchange numbers before checking out of the hotel at 11am. Complimentary transfers to Istanbul Airport (IST) are available all day.
Meals: Breakfast