DAY 1: Arrival in Istanbul – Welcome and Orientation

Arrive at Istanbul International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your tour manager. Enjoy a brief orientation talk to get acquainted with the tour and upcoming highlights.

Later, drive to a local restaurant for an early dinner, experiencing your first taste of authentic Turkish cuisine. Check in at your hotel and unwind for the night.

Dinner & overnight stay in Istanbul

DAY 2: Istanbul City Tour – Exploring the Top Historical Attractions in Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, begin a full-day guided tour covering some of the top tourist attractions in Istanbul. Your first stop is the legendary Hagia Sophia, one of the most visited landmarks in Turkey. Once a Greek Orthodox cathedral and later converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Empire, this masterpiece of Byzantine architecture represents centuries of cultural fusion and religious history. Next, visit the breathtaking Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), famed for its stunning interior adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles. This architectural wonder, with its six elegant minarets and grand domes, remains one of the most recognized symbols of Istanbul.

Continue to the opulent Topkapi Palace, the seat of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Now a museum, it houses priceless treasures and imperial relics from Turkey’s royal past (Harem section not included in the tour). A short walk brings you to the historic Hippodrome of Constantinople, an ancient chariot racing arena that served as a centre for social and political life during the Byzantine era. Here you’ll see the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain—remnants of the city’s imperial grandeur.

Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine dur ing lunch at a local restaurant.Post lunch, explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it’s the perfect place to shop for Turkish carpets, spices, jewellery, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Visit the mysterious Basilica Cistern, also known as the Sunken Palace. This massive underground reservoir, built during the Byzantine era, is supported by hundreds of ancient columns and features the famous Medusa heads, offering an atmospheric experience unique to Istanbul. In the evening, enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise, a must-do activity in Istanbul. Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, the natural waterway dividing Europe and Asia, while taking in panoramic views of Istanbul’s waterfront. Marvel at landmarks such as the Galata Tower, Beylerbeyi Palace, Küçüksu Pavilion, Rumeli Fortress, Ortaköy Mosque, and of course, the stunning silhouette of Hagia Sophia. A delightful dinner is served on board the cruise boat, offering the perfect end to a day full of discovery.

Overnight stay in Istanbul

DAY 3: Istanbul – Palaces, Panoramic Views & Charming Neighbourhoods

After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most opulent landmarks in Istanbul. Built between 1843 and 1856, this palace served as the main administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire in its final years. With construction costs equivalent to 35 tonnes of gold (as per modern estimates), Dolmabahçe became a symbol of grandeur—and economic strain—that led to Turkey being called the “Sick Man of Europe” during the late Ottoman period. The palace showcases a stunning fusion of Ottoman and European architectural styles and is a must-visit on any Istanbul palace tour.

Continue to the historic Galata Tower, originally constructed in 1348 as the Christea Turris (Tower of Christ). Built in Romanesque style, this former watchtower now houses a museum and offers 360-degree panoramic views of Istanbul from its observation deck. It's one of the best spots to capture the city's skyline, including the Golden Horn, Bosphorus, and historic peninsula. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling Turkish delicacies.

Post lunch, take a relaxing stroll through the vibrant Ortaköy Square, a lively waterfront hub lined with cafes and street vendors. Try a famous stuffed baked potato (kumpir) and enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee as you admire views of the Bosphorus Bridge. Visit the charming Ortaköy Mosque, and see the imposing Rumeli Fortress, a key defense built by the Ottomans on the European shore of the Bosphorus.

Explore the trendy Beyoğlu district, known for its art galleries, historic buildings, and bustling vibe. Walk through Taksim Square, the heart of modern Istanbul, and take in the lively atmosphere of Istiklal Street, filled with boutiques, street performers, and cafes.

Later, head to Çamlıca Hill, the highest point in Istanbul, offering sweeping views of the Bosphorus Strait, the Asian side of Istanbul, and the city's dazzling skyline—perfect for photography lovers.

Conclude the day at the Golden Horn, a natural inlet that divides the old city from modern Istanbul. As the sun sets, the water glows with golden hues, creating one of the most picturesque scenes in the city. Located near the Galata Bridge and Spice Bazaar, this area offers a glimpse of local life, ferry crossings to the Princes' Islands, and easy access to the Asian side of Istanbul.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then return to the hotel to relax.

Overnight stay: Hotel in Istanbul

Dinner & overnight stay in Rome

DAY 4: Istanbul to Gallipoli – War Memorials, Coastlines & Çanakkale

After breakfast, check out and begin your scenic drive towards Gallipoli, one of the most historically significant regions in Turkey. Known for its role in World War I.

Gallipoli is a place of deep remembrance and respect, especially for visitors from Australia, New Zealand, and the Commonwealth nations.

Upon arrival, explore the key sites of the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, including Brighton Beach, the ANZAC Cove, and other major World War I memorials and cemeteries.

These locations commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of thousands of soldiers during the infamous Gallipoli Campaign, a pivotal moment in both Turkish and global history.

Enjoy lunch at a local Restaurant. The place is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Turkish flavours, in restaurants set along the picturesque coastline.

After lunch, continue your journey to Çanakkale, a city rich in both ancient and modern history.

Visit the Çanakkale Naval Museum, which houses an impressive collection of maritime artefacts and relics from the Dardanelles campaign.

Stop by Kabatepe Beach, a peaceful spot that offers both natural beauty and historical depth.

Check in to your hotel in Çanakkale, followed by dinner and time to unwind after a meaningful day of exploration.

Overnight stay in Çanakkale

DAY 5: Çanakkale – Troy – Pergamum – Kusadasi

After breakfast, set out for one of Turkey’s most iconic ancient landmarks — the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Troy, located just 30 km from Çanakkale. Famed as the legendary setting of the Trojan War, Troy was immortalized in Homer’s epic poem The Iliad. The archaeological site reveals over 4,000 years of continuous settlement, with nine major layers representing civilizations from the Early Bronze Age to the Byzantine era. Excavations at the site highlight the impressive scale of the ancient city, including remnants of defensive walls, gates, and foundations. Troy VI and Troy VIIa are often associated with the mythic war and the famed Trojan Horse legend.

After exploring ancient Troy, continue your journey south to Pergamum, once a thriving Hellenistic kingdom and a major centre of culture and learning in the classical world. Lunch with opportunities to try local dishes during a short break En route.

In the afternoon, visit the remarkable Asclepion of Pergamum, an ancient Roman healing centre dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. This ancient spa and wellness complex was one of the earliest medical hubs in the ancient world, known for its advanced treatments, sacred pools, and tranquil architecture.

From Pergamum, drive to the coastal resort town of Kuşadası, arriving by early evening. The town is not only known for its seaside charm and bustling bazaars but is also believed by some sources to be the birthplace of Homer, adding a poetic end to a day rich in ancient heritage.

Enjoy dinner at the hotel and relax after a day of historical discovery.

Overnight stay in Kuşadası