Istanbul, Troy & Ephesus

Overview

World-famous monuments, delicious cuisine, and intriguing history make Turkey a traveler’s dream. This tour highlights the country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local traditions.

Highlights

• Just You Tour Manager as your host & Specialist Local Guides
• Return flights from Gatwick with Turkish Airlines
• A dedicated Just You representative to greet you at selected UK airports
• 7 nights in 4-star hotels
• 14 meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners, including a welcome drink
• Local Flavours: Visit Yesilyurt, a traditional Turkish village, and sample freshly made Gözleme pastries
• Overseas transfers, other transportation & porterage

Itinerary

Day 1: UK – Istanbul

Fly from the UK to Istanbul. Upon arrival, relax and enjoy dinner at your hotel while meeting your fellow travelers.

Day 2: Istanbul

Explore the city’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage with visits to the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia. After a traditional Turkish lunch, shop at the Grand Bazaar and savor authentic Turkish coffee and Baklava. In the evening, opt for an excursion to a Turkish nightclub for a belly-dancing show.

Day 3: Istanbul – Canakkale

Enjoy free time or take an optional Bosporus cruise before traveling to Canakkale via the historic battlefields of Gallipoli. A ferry ride across the Dardanelles takes us to Canakkale for dinner.

Day 4: Canakkale – Izmir

Visit the legendary city of Troy before heading to the village of Yesilyurt to learn how Gözleme pastries are made. Explore the ancient city of Pergamon before arriving in Izmir for dinner.

Day 5: Izmir

Tour the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis. Visit the Basilica of St Jean and explore the picturesque Greek village of Sirince, known for its fine wines and olive oil products.

Day 6: Izmir – Bursa

Travel to Bursa, the former Ottoman capital, and visit the Grand Mosque, the Tombs of Osman and Orhan, and the Silk Market, where you can browse local crafts and textiles.

Day 7: Bursa – Istanbul

Return to Istanbul for a leisurely afternoon or an optional visit to the Topkapi Palace Museum. End the day with a farewell dinner in the charming fisherman’s village of Kumpaki.

Day 8: Istanbul – UK

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.