Istanbul & Aegean Highlights - 9 days
Istanbul & Aegean Highlights - 9 days
Istanbul & Aegean Highlights - 9 days
9 Days Starting in Istanbul, Turkey and ending in Bodrum, Turkey
Visiting: Istanbul, Canakkale, Troy, Kusadasi, Samos, Bodrum, Kos
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2795/IAAH
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 28
Age range:
16-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Beach Tours, Cultural, History, Island Hopping, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 9-day journey through Turkey and Greece with the "Istanbul & Aegean Highlights" tour. Begin in the vibrant city of Istanbul, exploring iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Pay homage at Gallipoli's memorials and visit the legendary city of Troy. Discover the ancient Roman city of Ephesus and marvel at Pergamum's steep amphitheater. Enjoy leisurely day trips to the charming Greek islands of Kos and Samos, and explore the lively Bodrum Harbour. Stay in luxurious 4-5 star accommodations, including the DoubleTree by Hilton in Istanbul and the Kolin Hotel overlooking the Dardanelles. With guided sightseeing, daily breakfasts, and select dinners included, this small group tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Piyalepasa
Saturday. Welcome to the vibrant city of Istanbul, the beginning of your exciting adventure. Upon your arrival, our friendly representative will be there to greet you and accompany you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 2: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul - Piyalepasa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following breakfast at the hotel, your day in Istanbul begins with a guided tour that will take you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the exterior of St. Sophia, the enchanting Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar.
Day 3: Istanbul
Location: Canakkale
Accommodation Name: Kolin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Istanbul - Canakkale. Today, you'll embark on a journey to Gallipoli, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the legendary landmarks of ANZAC Cove, Nek, Conk Bair, Lone Pine, and the 57th Regiment Memorial.
Afterwards, you'll proceed to cross the Dardanelles, where Asia and Europe meet. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Canakkale, where you can enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 4: Canakkale
Location: Troy
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Canakkale - Troy - Pergamum - Kusadasi/Izmir. Following breakfast, we'll head for the legendary city of Troy, where the renowned Trojan War unfolded. You'll have the opportunity to explore the fascinating archaeological site, delving into its rich history.
Continuing on, we'll cross the picturesque Ida mountain range and arrive in Pergamum. Here, you'll visit the ancient Acropolis. Your day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Kusadasi, where you can relax and prepare for tomorrow's adventures.
Day 5: Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kusadasi/Izmir - Ephesus - Sirince - Kusadasi/Izmir. Today, a brief drive will take you to the ancient city of Ephesus. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent library, theater, and temples. The day's journey also includes a chance to discover the local craftsmanship of hand-made carpets and leather products.
Continuing on, you'll reach the charming village of Sirince, celebrated as one of Turkey's most beautiful villages. While in Sirince, you can shop unique local crafts and taste the delightful wines produced in the village. We'll end the night in Kusadasi.
Day 6: Kusadasi
Location: Samos
Accommodation Name: Overnight: Kusadasi or Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kusadasi/Izmir - Samos (Greece) - Kusadasi/Izmir (Turkey). Today, you'll be transferred to the port for a ferry ride to Samos, a charming Greek Island. Here, you'll have the opportunity for self-guided exploration, to explore how you wish.
Make sure to wander through the picturesque streets of Samos, visit historical sites, enjoy the stunning coastal views, and savour the island's delicious cuisine at local tavernas. Late in the afternoon, you'll board the return ferry to Kusadasi.
Day 7: Kusadasi
Location: Bodrum
Accommodation Name: El Vino
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kusadasi/Izmir - Bodrum. After breakfast, you'll head to Bodrum. On arrival, the remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own pace.
There's much to do in this coastal town - opt to relax on the beautiful beaches, explore the charming town, or experience the vibrant nightlife.
Day 8: Bodrum
Location: Kos
Accommodation Name: El Vino
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bodrum - Kos (Greece) - Bodrum (Turkey). This morning, you'll be transferred to the port for a ferry ride to Kos, a captivating Greek Island. This day is dedicated to self-guided exploration, allowing you to discover the island's unique beauty and culture at your own pace.
Kos has much to offer - consider visiting historical sites, enjoying the idyllic beaches, and make sure to immerse yourself in the Greek island lifestyle. In the late afternoon, you'll board the return ferry to Bodrum.
Day 9: Bodrum
Location: Bodrum
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sunday. Today marks the end of your adventure. Departure transfer is included to Bodrum Port or Bodrum Airport.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
4-5 star -
Daily breakfasts & 4 dinners
Enjoy daily breakfasts and four dinners during your tour.
-
8 nights 4-5 star hotels
Stay in 4 to 5-star hotels for 8 nights.
-
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 and departure transfer on day 9
Airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour.
-
Guided sightseeing - Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus & Sirince
Experience guided sightseeing tours in Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, and Sirince.
-
English-speaking, qualified tour guide for all included sightseeing
A qualified English-speaking tour guide will accompany you for all included sightseeing.
-
Transportation for sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned touring vehicle/coach
Travel in comfort with transportation provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle or coach.
-
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing
Entrance fees for all included sightseeing activities are covered.
-
Return ferry transfers to Kos and Samos
Ferry transfers to and from the Greek islands of Kos and Samos are included.
What's Not Included
-
International flights and visas
International flights and visa arrangements are not included.
-
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Tipping is not included and is left to your discretion.
Accommodation
Experience luxury at the DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul, Kolin Hotel, Charisma Hotel, and El Vino. Enjoy modern amenities, elegant decor, and stunning views. Relax in indoor pools, fitness centers, and indulge in fine dining at onsite restaurants. Perfectly located for exploring Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi, and Bodrum.
Age Policy
16 years with an accompanying adult
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with modern air-conditioned vehicles for sightseeing, including guided tours in Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, and Ephesus. Enjoy return ferry transfers to the Greek islands of Kos and Samos, and airport transfers on arrival and departure days.
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes stays in 4-5 star hotels such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul, Kolin Hotel, Charisma Hotel, and El Vino. These hotels offer modern amenities including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and some have additional features like indoor pools, fitness centers, and spa facilities.
-
Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes daily breakfasts and 4 dinners. Meals are provided at the hotels or during the guided tours.
-
Is transportation included for sightseeing activities?
Yes, transportation for sightseeing is included and is provided in a modern air-conditioned touring vehicle or coach.
-
Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes guided sightseeing in Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, and Sirince with an English-speaking, qualified tour guide.
-
Are entrance fees for attractions included in the tour cost?
Yes, entrance fees for all included sightseeing activities are covered in the tour cost.
-
Is there a transfer service provided at the beginning and end of the tour?
Yes, the tour includes an airport arrival transfer on day 1 and a departure transfer on day 9.
-
Will there be opportunities to explore on my own during the tour?
Yes, there are several opportunities for self-guided exploration, particularly during the visits to the Greek islands of Kos and Samos, as well as free time in Bodrum.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Sunday
May 03, 2025 - May 11, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 10, 2025 - May 18, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 24, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025Saturday - Sunday
May 31, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jun 21, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 23, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
-
Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
-
Terms and Conditions