4-Day Istanbul to Gallipoli Troy Ephesus and Pamukkale Tours

4-Day Istanbul to Gallipoli Troy Ephesus and Pamukkale Tours

Day 1 – Istanbul to Gallipoli Tour

Between 06:00 and 06:30: Pick-up from hotels in Taksim, Besiktas, Sisli, and Karakoy.
Between 06:30 and 07:00: Pick-up from Sultanahmet, Beyazid, Sirkeci, Laleli, and Aksaray.
After our pick-ups, we will continue to drive to Canakkale (Gallipoli). It takes about 5 hours.
Breakfast Stop
Around 08:30, enjoy a short stop for breakfast on the way. (Breakfast is your expense.)
Arrival in Eceabat
At noon, reach Eceabat and have a delicious lunch.

Highlights of the Gallipoli Guided Tour
Visit the historical sites of Gallipoli, including:

• ANZAC Cove: First, the landing site of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
• Brighton Beach: Next, a key area during the Gallipoli campaign.
• Beach Cemetery: Additionally, the burial place of the heroic John Simpson.
• Johnston’s Jolly: Also, features preserved trenches and tunnels.
• Lone Pine Memorial: Similarly, honors Australian soldiers.
• Chunuk Bair Memorial: Likewise, commemorates New Zealand troops.
• Respect to Mehmetçik Memorial: Furthermore, symbolizes Turkish bravery.
• Battleship Hill: Finally, the site of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s headquarters.

Evening
17:30: End of the tour. Transfer to your hotel in Çanakkale for check-in and an overnight stay.

Day 2 – Troy Tour & Bus Transportation to Kusadasi/Izmir/Selcuk

Morning Pick-Up
08:30: Pick up from your hotel after breakfast and head to the ancient city of Troy.

Highlights of the Troy Tour include:

• The Trojan Horse: First, see the iconic symbol made famous by the movie Troy.
• Helen of Troy: Next, discover her role in the legendary Trojan War.
• Trojan Wars: Additionally, learn about the epic battles of Achilles and Hector.
• 3200-Year-Old City Walls: Marvel at the ancient fortifications of Troy VI and VII.
• Athena Temple: Moreover, visit the sacred site dedicated to Athena.
• Schliemann’s Trench: Also, explore this historic excavation sites.
• Odeon and Roman Bath: Similarly, see the remains of Roman social life.
• South and East Gates: Furthermore, walk through the city’s ancient entryways.
• Agora: Finally, visit the bustling center of trade and commerce.

Midday: After the tour, board a local bus heading to Ephesus via Izmir. The journey, including stops, takes approximately 7 hours.
Evening Arrival: Upon reaching Izmir or Selçuk Bus Station (6-7 hours later), you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight Stay: Relax at your hotel in Kusadasi or Selçuk.

Day 3 – Ephesus and Virgin Mary Tour

Morning Pick-Up
08:30: Meet your guide and start the day with a visit to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Key Highlights in Ephesus:

• Library of Celsus: Admire the intricate façade of this ancient library, once the third-largest in the Roman Empire.
• The Grand Theater: Stand in awe of this massive amphitheater, capable of seating 25,000 spectators, and imagine the grand performances and events held here.
• Temple of Hadrian: Learn about this beautifully preserved temple dedicated to Emperor Hadrian.
• Odeon: A small yet elegant theater used for concerts and political meetings.

Afternoon Highlights

• House of the Virgin Mary: Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years. Recognized as a sacred site by both Christians and Muslims, this peaceful hilltop retreat offers a serene environment for reflection.
• Isabey Mosque: Finish the day with a stop at the Isabey Mosque, a masterpiece of Seljuk architecture.

Evening in your hotel
After the tour, return to your hotel.
Overnight Stay: Relax at your hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk.

Day 4 – Pamukkale Tour & Fly to Istanbul

Morning Pick-Up
08:00: Depart for Pamukkale, famous for its thermal terraces and ancient ruins.

Ancient City of Hierapolis
Adjacent to Pamukkale lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, a significant Greco-Roman spa town. Stroll through its well-preserved ruins and uncover its historical importance. Key sites include:

• The Necropolis: One of Anatolia’s largest ancient cemeteries, featuring over 1,200 intricately designed tombs.
• The Roman Bath: A grand structure showcasing the Roman era’s sophisticated bathing culture.
• Domitian Gate and Byzantine Gate: Impressive gateways marking the entrances to the ancient city.

Optional Swim in the Cleopatra Pool
Take a break to relax or opt for a rejuvenating swim in the Cleopatra Pool, a thermal spring-fed pool surrounded by ancient ruins. The warm, mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties. If you plan to swim, don’t forget to bring your swimwear.

Lunch Break and Leisure Time
Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a nearby restaurant. Following lunch, take some free time to explore the terraces further or capture photos of the striking scenery.

Flight to Istanbul
19:40: After the tour, transfer to the local airport for your flight back to Istanbul. (Flight times may vary depending on the date and availability.)
20:50: Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be greeted by a travel representative who will assist with your transfer to your hotel.

End of the Day
This marks the end of your tour services, leaving you with unforgettable memories with us.