Packed Paradise Turkey

Sacred Sites & Trails

Turkey offers an intoxicating mix of sights and experiences from oriental splendour and intrigue to whirling dervishes and a spicy hotchpotch of history. There is much to discover - from ruined Byzantine monasteries, ancient Roman baths, towering Greek amphitheatres and Sultan’s harems to paying respects at Gallipoli or shopping for magnificent carpets. This is certainly a land of veritable treasures waiting to be uncovered. Our Turkish tour leaders are fantastic and knowledgeable travelling companions who will introduce us to the best cultural and culinary wonders, as well as bring the ancient world back to life for us. Our adventure begins and ends in Istanbul, formerly a fabled capital that went by the names Byzantium and Constantinople. With so much to see and do this trip is sure to fill your appetite.

Day 1: Istanbul

Our trip starts today in Istanbul – a trove of treasures waiting to be discovered. Our hotel is located within walking distance of all the main sights, so if arriving early there is time to soak up the atmosphere and explore on foot. There are no formal activities planned for today, so you may arrive at any time. This evening we meet our tour leader and fellow travel companions. We can then join our tour leader for an introduction to some fabulous Turkish cuisine in a street side café (optional).

Day 2: Istanbul - Pamukkale
This morning our guide shows us the treasures of the Old Town including the iconic Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the exotic Spice Market and the famous Grand Bazaar. The afternoon is free to do our own exploration – perhaps barter for a bargain, enjoy a cruise on the Bosphorus or indulge in a traditional hamam (Turkish bath), before we catch an overnight BUS to Pamukkale.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 3: Pamukkale - Selçuk
We arrive to Denizli station and drive to Pamukkale, with its spectacular natural pools, shelves and ridges. It was formed by a spring with high calcium bicarbonate content, which cascaded over the edge of the cliffs, leaving calcium deposits. There is also an option to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its abundance of temples and religious structures. We then take a local bus to Selçuk, our base to explore one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. After an orientation tour we are free to explore Selçuk, a town full of history and packed with artefacts and relics that reflects its past as an ancient fortress on Ayasoluk Hill.

Day 4: Ephesus – Sirince – Selcuk
Today is free to explore or to take an optional tour to Ephesus - the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world. It is a full and exciting day. Ephesus, founded by Ionian Greeks in the 11th century BC and brought to full flower under Roman rule, was always an important religious centre. We can walk the marble streets once trodden by Antony and Cleopatra and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and the wonderfully restored Library of Celsus. Close by is the last home of the Virgin Mary who, as legend has it, came here accompanied by St John and lived out her days in this beautiful spot. Later we head to Sirince, a stunning small mountain village a short distance from the coast. Everything from olive trees and goats to the market place typifies Turkish rural life and the charming whitewashed houses are a reminder of its Greek origins. We return to Selçuk for the night.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 5: Selcuk - Ayvalik
After breakfast we take a local bus to Ayvalik, a charming seaside town with colourful and old Ottoman-Greek houses, cobblestone streets and lively cafes. We can enjoy an orientation walk through the old part of town and perhaps taste some olive oil for which the place is famous for. A drink at a harbourside bar is a great way to enjoy the sunset.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 6: Gallipoli - Çanakkale
We cross the Dardanelles by ferry to the shores of Gallipoli, a place of immense significance to Australians and New Zealanders. It is a spot of pilgimage and reverence and the calm lapping waters belie the murderous campaign that took place here. This now serene site, located at Turkey’s most westerly point, played a crucial role in 1915 for Allied forces in the First World War that included other Commonwealth and British troops, as well as the French and Turkish. We spend time visiting the battlefields, monuments and cemeteries before returning to our hotel in Çanakkale in the afternoon. For those who wish, there is also the possibility of organising an excursion to Troy, where we can explore the ancient walls, climb around the ruins and gaze across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the waters of the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 7: Çanakkale - Istanbul
After breakfast, we catch the bus to Istanbul for a last night on the town. Istanbul is the only city in the world to be situated on two continents and offers a plethora of great eating spots and lively night venues. Our tour leader knows all the best places, so tonight is sure to be a fitting finale to our amazing trip!
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 8: Istanbul
Our tour ends after breakfast. Say farewell to new-found friends as Istanbul bids you 'bon voyage'!
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Trip Itinerary Variation
2008 Departures - transport between Istanbul and Pamukkale Due to construction work on the railway line between Istanbul and Pamukkale, the overnight train on Day 2 will be replaced with an overnight bus service between Istanbul and Pamukkale. As per the train service, this is a non-escorted sector of the tour. The bus service will depart Istanbul at 21.30pm and arrive in Pamukkale at 7am.
More information

Packed Paradise Turkey 2010