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Epic Türkiye Explorer: From Gallipoli to Mount Ararat in 19 Days

19 days

Moderate

Cultural Tour

This 19-day journey is Türkiye in full panorama. From the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli to the ancient cities of Troy and Ephesus, the white terraces of Pamukkale to the turquoise coast of Fethiye, the spiritual heart of Konya to the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia—and onward to the mystical east: Van, Akdamar Island, Mount Ararat, and the haunting ruins of Ani. This is Türkiye’s soul, uncovered.    


  • Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace
  • Gallipoli: ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair
  • Troy & Pergamon: Ancient ruins, Acropolis cable car
  • Ephesus & Sirince: Library of Celsus, wine tasting
  • Pamukkale & Aphrodisias: Travertines, Temple of Aphrodite
  • Fethiye & Antalya: Free time, harbor town, ancient theaters
  • Konya: Mevlana Museum, Silk Road village
  • Cappadocia: Göreme, underground city, pottery village
  • Van & Akdamar Island: Lake Van, Urartu Museum
  • Mount Ararat & Kars: Ishak Pasha Palace, Ani ruins
What's included?
    • 18 nights in 4-star hotels
    • Airport transfers (IST/SAW)
    • Domestic flights: Cappadocia → Van, Kars → Istanbul
    • Professional English-speaking guide
    • Air-conditioned private transport
    • Wine tasting & cooking course
    • All service charges and taxes
    • 18 Breakfast, 18 Lunch, 18 Dinner
    • Entrance fees to all sites
    Exclusions
      • International flights
      • Turkey entry visa
      • Optional tours, personal spendings, tips
      Please note

        1. Tour Summary: Geography and Culture

        This tour covers three critical and distinct regions of Turkey:

        • West and Aegean: Historic Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi), Gallipoli's memories, ancient cities like Ephesus, and leisure time along the Mediterranean coast.
        • Central Anatolia: Konya, the spiritual heart of Mevlana (Rumi), and Cappadocia, a unique geological marvel famous for its fairy chimneys and hot air balloons.
        • East: The cultural richness of Eastern Anatolia, featuring Lake Van, traces of the ancient Urartu civilization, Ishak Pasha Palace, and stunning views of Mount Ararat.

        2. Important Tips and Travel Information

        • Currency and Payment: The currency is the Turkish Lira (TL). While cards are accepted in major cities, always carry cash for smaller vendors, local shops, and remoter locations in the East.
        • Water and Travel: Drink only bottled water. Since the tour involves long bus journeys, bring comfort items such as a neck pillow or reading material to enhance your travel experience.
        • Safety and Guide: The tour is generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Following your guide's schedule and instructions is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
        What to bring

            Packing and Gear Essentials (Multi-Purpose)

          Given the climate variations from the warm West to the cool, high-altitude East, layered clothing is the key strategy.

          • Apparel: Layering is essential with thermal base layers, sweaters, and a light jacket/raincoat. For religious sites in Istanbul and Konya, bring clothing that covers shoulders and knees, and women should carry a scarf/shawl.
          • Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are indispensable for full-day excursions across uneven, stony surfaces at ancient sites (e.g., Ephesus, Ani Ruins).
          • Protection: Pack sunscreen, a hat (for sun protection), and a light raincoat or umbrella (for rain). A power bank(portable charger) is crucial for keeping devices charged during long bus rides.