Anzac and West Tour: 10 Unforgettable Days

Welcome to Turkey!

Begin Your Incredible 10-Day Cultural & Historical Journey

Arrival in Istanbul – Your Adventure Begins!
✔ Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, our friendly team will be ready to greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel.
✔ Check-in at your accommodation and take the time to settle in after your journey.
✔ The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace!

Suggested Activities for Your Free Time in Istanbul
✔ Take a stroll through Sultanahmet Square, where history and modern life beautifully blend.
✔ Try traditional Turkish cuisine—perhaps a delicious kebab, meze platter, or famous baklava at a local restaurant.
✔ Relax by the Bosphorus—enjoy the stunning views of Europe & Asia meeting across the water.
✔ Shop for unique souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar (if arriving early).

Overnight in Istanbul
✔ Rest well as tomorrow, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Istanbul’s historic wonders!

Markets, Waterways, & Hidden Gems

Tour Highlights – A Day of Exploration & Culture

Grand Bazaar – A Shopper’s Paradise
✔ Start your day at the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and most famous covered markets.
✔ With over 4,399 shops, 497 stalls, and 2,195 workshops, explore handcrafted items, carpets, ceramics, spices, and unique souvenirs.

Bosphorus Cruise – A Scenic Experience
✔ Embark on a picturesque cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, offering a breathtaking view of Istanbul from the water.
✔ Sail past historical landmarks, palaces, and iconic bridges connecting Europe & Asia.

Taksim Square – A Vibrant Gathering Spot
✔ Visit Taksim Square, a lively hub where locals gather, families enjoy the park, and street performers entertain.
✔ Learn about its historical significance as a center of culture and modern Istanbul life.

Hidden Streets Walking Tour – Off-the-Beaten-Path
✔ Walk through lesser-known streets, away from the usual tourist trails, revealing the soul of Istanbul.

Istiklal Street – A Bustling Avenue
✔ Stroll along Istiklal Street, a famous pedestrian boulevard filled with shops, cafes, art galleries, and historic landmarks.

Galata Tower – Iconic City Views
✔ Pass by the legendary Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower with panoramic views of Istanbul.

Karakoy & Galata Bridge – Stunning Waterfront Views
✔ Cross the Galata Bridge, overlooking the Golden Horn, capturing some of the best views of Istanbul’s skyline.

Street Food & Culinary Delights
✔ Optional: Sample authentic street food, including savory and sweet treats along the way! (not included in the tour price).

Important Notes:
✔ Street Food: Tastings are available throughout the tour but are optional and not included in the package price.
✔ Lunch: Not included in the tour price—your guide will recommend great local options!

Overnight in Istanbul
✔ Relax and reflect on today’s incredible cultural experiences before continuing your journey tomorrow!

Sights Visited

Discover Istanbul’s Historical Treasures
A Day of Iconic Landmarks & Ottoman Majesty

Tour Itinerary – Unveiling the Heart of Istanbul

Blue Mosque – A Masterpiece of Islamic Architecture
✔ Marvel at the breathtaking interiors adorned with over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles in shades of blue.
✔ Learn about the history and significance of this 17th-century mosque, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Hippodrome & Obelisk – The Ancient Social Hub
✔ Step into the historic Hippodrome, the center of Byzantine Constantinople’s social and political life.
✔ Admire ancient monuments, including:

The Obelisk of Theodosius – an Egyptian obelisk dating back to 1500 BC.
The Serpent Column – an ancient Greek relic from Delphi.
The German Fountain – a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1898.

Hagia Sophia – A Wonder of the World
✔ Explore the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO-listed marvel that has been a church, mosque, and now a museum.
✔ Witness the breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, massive dome, and blend of Christian and Islamic artistry.

Topkapi Palace – The Splendor of the Ottomans
✔ Walk through the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, featuring royal chambers, ancient treasures, and stunning gardens.

Discover:
The Imperial Treasury – housing rare jewels, including the Topkapi Dagger.
The Harem (optional entry) – where Ottoman sultans’ families lived.
The Sacred Relics Room – displaying relics of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Islamic artifacts.

Shopping in Istanbul – A Blend of Tradition & Modernity
✔ Explore some of Istanbul’s best shopping destinations, from bazaars to artisan markets.
✔ Find unique handmade crafts, carpets, ceramics, and souvenirs.

Our Recommendation – The Spice Bazaar Experience
✔ After the tour, visit the Spice Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s most vibrant markets.
✔ Indulge in the aromas of Turkish teas, exotic spices, and sweet delights.
✔ This activity is not part of the tour package but is highly recommended!

Important Notes:
✔ Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sundays.
✔ Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays.
✔ Blue Mosque: Limited entry on Fridays due to prayers.

Hotel Pickup Information
✔ Pickups available from hotels in: Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and Taksim.
✔ For hotels outside these areas, additional charges may apply—please contact our team for assistance.

Overnight in Istanbul
✔ Rest well after an enriching day exploring the historical wonders of Istanbul!

Sights Visited

A Day of History, Reflection & Remembrance

Tour Itinerary – Walk in the Footsteps of History

06:30 AM – 07:00 AM | Hotel Pickup & Departure for Gallipoli
✔ Begin your journey with a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus transfer from your hotel in Istanbul.
✔ Enjoy scenic landscapes as you drive towards Eceabat, the gateway to the Gallipoli Peninsula.

12:00 PM | Arrival in Eceabat & Lunch
✔ Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, featuring authentic Turkish flavors.
✔ A perfect opportunity to relax before beginning the battlefield tour.

1:00 PM | Fully Guided Gallipoli Battlefield Tour
Explore one of the most significant sites of World War I, where thousands of ANZAC & Turkish soldiers fought bravely.

Key Historic Sites & Memorials to Visit

Brighton Beach:
A key ANZAC landing site, where soldiers first stepped onto Turkish soil.

Beach Cemetery:
The final resting place of John Simpson Kirkpatrick, the legendary “Man with the Donkey”.
Pay respects to many ANZAC soldiers who fought with courage.

Anzac Cove:
Stand on the shores where thousands of Australian & New Zealand soldiers landed on April 25, 1915.
Reflect on the immense bravery and sacrifice made at this pivotal location.

Ariburnu Cemetery:
Visit another poignant burial ground where ANZAC soldiers were laid to rest.

Anzac Commemorative Site:
A solemn place honoring all soldiers who fought during the Gallipoli Campaign.
Learn about the significance of the campaign and its impact on Australia, New Zealand, and Turkey.

Respect to Mehmetcik Statue:
A tribute to the Turkish soldiers who bravely defended their homeland.
Highlights the mutual respect that grew between former enemies.

Lone Pine Australian Memorial:
A deeply significant memorial dedicated to Australian troops who fought during the Gallipoli offensive.

Johnston’s Jolly:
Walk among preserved trenches and tunnels, where Turkish and Allied soldiers faced each other at close quarters.
Gain insight into the harsh conditions of trench warfare.

Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery:
Honors the sacrifices of the Turkish soldiers, particularly the famous 57th Infantry Regiment, which was praised for its unwavering bravery.

The Nek:
Stand at the site of one of the most tragic and famous ANZAC charges, memorably depicted in the film Gallipoli.

Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial:
A key site for New Zealand’s forces, marking their crucial involvement in the Gallipoli campaign.
A moment of reflection for the incredible bravery of the New Zealand soldiers.

6:00 PM | Hotel Check-In & Overnight Stay
✔ After a full day of exploration, check in to your hotel in Eceabat or Canakkale.
✔ Relax and reflect on the poignant and powerful stories from the Gallipoli Peninsula.
✔ Enjoy the beautiful coastal surroundings and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Important Notes:

✔ Walking Involved: Some moderate walking is required during the tour. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
✔ Weather Considerations: Dress appropriately based on seasonal conditions, as the tour is outdoor-focused.
✔ Emotional Experience: The Gallipoli battlefields hold deep historical and emotional significance, so expect a profound experience.

Overnight in Eceabat or Canakkale
✔ Rest and reflect after a powerful day of historical discovery.

Sights Visited

Morning: Discover the Legendary City of Troy

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Fully Guided Troy Tour
Step into the mythical world of Troy, one of the most famous archaeological sites and a place where history and legend intertwine.

Highlights of the Troy Tour:

• Trojan Horse – See the iconic replica symbolizing the legendary battle between the Trojans and Greeks.

• 3,700-Year-Old City Walls – Stand before the ancient fortifications that protected Troy’s people for centuries.
• Houses of Troy I (3000 B.C.) – Explore the remains of Troy’s earliest settlements from the Bronze Age.
• Bouleuterion (Senate Building) – A political hub where leaders once gathered to govern the city.
• The Odeon (Concert Hall) – A venue for music and performances, showcasing the cultural life of Troy.
• Troy I to Troy IX – Witness the nine layers of civilization, revealing Troy’s evolution through different ages.

This tour offers an incredible opportunity to walk through history and learn about the true story behind Homer’s Iliad.
12:00 PM | Return to Canakkale

Afternoon: Free Time to Explore Canakkale
12:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Leisure & Exploration
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon in Canakkale, a charming coastal town along the Dardanelles Strait.

Recommended Activities in Canakkale:

• ✔Cimenlik Castle – Visit this historic Ottoman fortress with panoramic views over the Dardanelles.
• ✔Beaches – Relax at Habbele Plaji or other serene coastal areas for some downtime.
• Canakkale Naval Museum – Dive into the rich maritime history of the Gallipoli and Dardanelles campaigns.

Use this free time to rest, explore, or grab a meal at a waterfront café before the journey to Anzac Cove.

Evening: Departure for Anzac Cove
8:00 PM | Travel to Anzac Cove for the Dawn Service
Depart from Eceabat and head to Anzac Cove, where the historic Anzac Day Dawn Service will take place.

Upon Arrival at Anzac Cove:

• Find Your Spot – Proceed to the grandstands and sleeping grounds.
• Nighttime Documentaries – Watch historical films & documentaries on the ANZAC campaign.
• Reflect on History – Spend the night under the stars in this profoundly significant place.

An emotionally moving experience, spending the night at Anzac Cove allows you to fully absorb the solemnity and historical significance of this site.

Overnight: Anzac Cove (No Hotel Accommodation)
✔ Please Note: Bring your own sleeping bag or blanket for warmth and comfort.

Sights Visited

Anzac Day Ceremonies – A Day of Remembrance & Reflection

Morning: Breakfast & Preparation
A breakfast picnic box will be provided as you get ready for this momentous day of remembrance at Gallipoli.

Ceremony Schedule – Honoring the ANZAC Legacy
5:30 AM | The Dawn Service – Anzac Cove
Attend the solemn and deeply moving Dawn Service at Anzac Cove, where thousands gather to honor the ANZAC soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives in 1915.

This powerful tribute includes:
✔ Reflections & Prayers – Remembering the soldiers’ bravery.
✔ Readings & Hymns – Celebrating their courage and sacrifice.
✔ Laying of Wreaths – Paying respect to the fallen.
This emotional moment at sunrise is a true testament to the ANZAC spirit.

10:30 AM | Australian National Ceremony – Lone Pine Memorial
Travel to Lone Pine, the memorial site for Australian troops, where another significant ceremony takes place.
✔ Honor the Australian soldiers who fought in one of the fiercest battles of the Gallipoli campaign.
✔ Listen to speeches, prayers, and tributes from dignitaries and veterans.
A moving experience that highlights the resilience and spirit of the Australian forces.

11:30 AM | New Zealand National Ceremony – Chunuk Bair Memorial
Continue to Chunuk Bair, one of the most important battle sites for New Zealand soldiers.
✔ Pay tribute to the brave Kiwi soldiers who made their stand at Chunuk Bair in August 1915.
✔ Reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.
✔ Experience the powerful haka and national anthems, uniting past and present generations.
A deeply meaningful moment for New Zealanders and all who respect their sacrifice.

Afternoon: Free Time to Explore & Reflect
After the ceremonies, you will have the rest of the day to:
✔ Relax in the serene surroundings of Gallipoli.
✔ Explore Eceabat or Canakkale at your own pace.
✔ Visit nearby memorials and historical sites.
This is a perfect time to process the day’s emotions and reflect on the powerful stories you’ve witnessed.

Overnight: Eceabat or Canakkale
✔ A well-deserved rest after a day filled with history, emotion, and respect for the ANZAC legacy.

Sights Visited

Morning: Departure to Pergamon (Bergama)

10:00 AM – Hotel Pickup & Departure
✔ Depart from your hotel in Eceabat or Canakkale and begin your journey south to Bergama (Pergamon), one of the most influential cities of the ancient world.

1:30 PM – Lunch in Bergama
✔ Enjoy a delicious local meal before starting your immersive tour of Pergamon Acropolis.

Pergamon Acropolis Tour Highlights
Discover the grandeur of Pergamon, an ancient center of learning, art, and civilization.

The Acropolis
✔ Explore the political and cultural center of Pergamon, which once ruled as the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty.
✔ Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views from the city’s hilltop location.

Library of Pergamon
✔ Visit the remains of one of the greatest libraries of the ancient world, which once housed over 200,000 scrolls—second only to Alexandria’s Library.
✔ Learn how the dispute with Egypt led to the invention of parchment (pergamena) as an alternative to papyrus.

Temple of Athena
✔ Admire the temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare.
✔ Witness the Greek and Roman influences in its architectural design.

Altar of Zeus
✔ One of the most celebrated monuments of ancient Greek art (original friezes now displayed in the Pergamon Museum, Berlin).
✔ Known as the “Throne of Satan” in the Book of Revelation.

Gymnasium
✔ Located on three terraces, this impressive gymnasium reflects Pergamon’s dedication to education and athletic training.

Lower Agora
✔ Stroll through the ancient market, where traders and merchants conducted commerce and social life flourished.

Hellenistic Theater
✔ Marvel at the spectacular theater carved into the mountainside, seating up to 10,000 spectators.
✔ Known as one of the steepest ancient theaters, offering breathtaking views.

Temple of Dionysus
✔ A beautifully preserved temple dedicated to Dionysus, the god of wine, pleasure, and festivity.
✔ Learn about the cult of Dionysus and its significance in Pergamon.

5:30 PM – Transfer to the Ephesus Region
✔ Depart Pergamon and head towards Selcuk or Kusadasi in the Ephesus region.
✔ Enjoy a scenic drive through the Aegean countryside.

Evening: Arrival at Your Hotel
8:30 PM – Arrive in Selcuk
9:30 PM – Arrive in Kusadasi
✔ Check-in and unwind after a day filled with history, culture, and ancient wonders.
✔ Relax and prepare for the incredible Ephesus tour the following day.

Sights Visited

8:30 AM – Departure & Hotel Pickup
✔ Begin your full-day guided tour with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi.
✔ Journey to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved and most fascinating ancient cities in the world.

Ephesus Tour Highlights
Explore the legendary city of Ephesus, once a thriving metropolis of the Roman Empire.

Ephesus Ancient City
✔ Walk through the marble-paved streets where emperors, philosophers, and traders once roamed.
✔ Discover grand structures that defined the city as the Roman capital of Asia Minor.

The Celsus Library
✔ One of the most iconic and well-preserved libraries of the ancient world.
✔ Marvel at the detailed carvings and columns, and learn about its vast collection of scrolls.

The Great Theatre
✔ A colossal amphitheater seating 25,000 people, used for dramas, gladiatorial fights, and public speeches.
✔ The site where Saint Paul preached to the Ephesians (Acts 19:23–41).

The Temple of Hadrian
✔ A beautifully preserved temple dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, featuring intricate reliefs and columns.

The Terrace Houses (Optional, Requires Additional Entrance Ticket)
✔ Explore the remains of luxurious Roman homes with stunning frescoes and mosaics.
✔ See how wealthy Ephesians lived, with heating systems, private baths, and marble walls.

House of the Virgin Mary
✔ A sacred pilgrimage site, believed to be the final home of Mary, the mother of Jesus.
✔ Experience a peaceful atmosphere, light a candle, and drink from the holy water springs.

Temple of Artemis (One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World)
✔ Visit the remains of one of the greatest temples of antiquity, dedicated to the goddess Artemis (Diana).
✔ Learn about its rich history, destruction, and role in ancient Ephesus.

Overnight: Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)
✔ Return to your accommodation for a well-earned rest.
✔ Enjoy a free evening to explore local cuisine, visit a Turkish bath, or relax by the sea.

Sights Visited

8:30 AM – Departure & Hotel Pickup
✔ Begin your journey with a hotel pickup from Selcuk or Kusadasi.
✔ Travel through the stunning Turkish countryside toward Pamukkale, also known as the “Cotton Castle”.

Lunch on Arrival
✔ Upon reaching Pamukkale, enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch at a local restaurant before exploring the region.

Pamukkale Travertines (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
✔ Witness the breathtaking white travertine terraces, created by centuries of calcium-rich thermal waters flowing over the landscape.
✔ Admire the cascading pools of bright turquoise thermal waters—a truly surreal and otherworldly sight.
✔ Walk barefoot along the terraces (optional) and immerse your feet in the warm, healing mineral waters.

Hierapolis Ancient City (Greco-Roman Ruins Above Pamukkale)
Explore the remains of this once-thriving Greco-Roman city, dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Highlights of Hierapolis:
✔ Roman Baths: See the beautifully preserved Roman thermal baths, once used for relaxation and healing.
✔ The Necropolis: One of Turkey’s largest ancient cemeteries, featuring over 1,200 tombs and sarcophagi.
✔ The Great Theatre: Marvel at this massive 15,000-seat amphitheater, offering stunning panoramic views.
✔ The Temple of Apollo: Explore the ruins of the grand temple dedicated to Apollo, the patron god of Hierapolis.

Optional Tour: Pamukkale Paragliding (Not included in the tour package)
✔ For adventure seekers, enjoy a paragliding flight over the travertines and ruins of Hierapolis.
✔ Experience the thrill of flying while enjoying the stunning contrast of white cliffs, ancient ruins, and green valleys.

Evening: Departure for Istanbul (Overnight Bus)
✔ 10:00 PM – Board an overnight bus back to Istanbul.
✔ Travel comfortably as you head back to the vibrant city where your journey began.
✔ Relax & reflect on the incredible sites you’ve explored.

Overnight: Bus to Istanbul
✔ Sleep comfortably on a deluxe overnight coach as you return to Istanbul for the final day of your journey.

Sights Visited

9:00 AM – Arrival in Istanbul
✔ Arrive early in the morning in Istanbul after your overnight journey.
✔ Enjoy the final moments of your 10-day adventure through Turkey.

What’s Next?
✔ If you have onward travel plans, our team can assist with:
Airport transfers to Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW).
Additional accommodation bookings if you wish to extend your stay in Istanbul.
Optional extra tours, including a Bosphorus Cruise or a visit to Pierre Loti Hill.

Thank You for Traveling With Us!
✔ We hope this journey through Turkey’s rich history, biblical sites, and stunning landscapes has been meaningful and unforgettable.

Safe Travels & See You Again in Turkey!