ITINERARY

• Starting at 6:30 AM you will be picked up from your hotel in Istanbul and begin the drive down to Gallipoli peninsula! Relax and take in the view of the Sea of Marmara from the comfort of the bus. Around 12:00 PM you will arrive in the charming seaside town of Eceabat and stop for lunch. Your guide will take you up the hauntingly beautiful coast of Gallipoli. You will follow in the footsteps of the ANZAC and Ottoman forces, walking the now deserted battlefields and trenches and pay respects at the many memorials for all of the fallen soldiers. You will learn of the maneuvers of both sides, successful and failed and hear stories of the bright young Colonel of the Ottoman forces, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. At the end of the tour you will be transferred to your hotel in Canakkale where you will have the rest of the evening to shop and explore.
• Troy (Truva), located in Çanakkale, Turkey, is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, known for its legendary role in Homer’s epic, *The Iliad*. This ancient city, believed to have been founded in the 3rd millennium BCE, showcases a fascinating blend of myth and history. Troy is renowned as the site of the Trojan War, where the Greeks used the iconic Trojan Horse to infiltrate and conquer the city. Visitors can explore the ruins of nine different layers of settlement, each representing a distinct era of Troy’s 4,000-year history. Key features include the remnants of city walls, gates, and ancient buildings. The site also houses a replica of the Trojan Horse, offering a symbolic connection to the legendary tale. In 1998, Troy was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance. Nearby, the Troy Museum exhibits artifacts excavated from the site, providing deeper insight into this legendary city and its enduring legacy.
• Pergamon (or Pergamum), located in modern-day Bergama, Turkey, was an ancient Greek city renowned for its cultural, scientific, and architectural achievements. It served as the capital of the Attalid Kingdom during the Hellenistic period (281–133 BCE) and became a major center of art and learning. The city is famous for its monumental Acropolis, perched on a hilltop, featuring remarkable structures such as the Altar of Zeus, a masterpiece of Hellenistic architecture and sculpture. The Acropolis also houses the Temple of Athena, the Temple of Trajan, and the impressive Pergamon Theater, one of the steepest ancient theaters in the world. Pergamon was home to one of the ancient world’s greatest libraries, second only to Alexandria, containing an estimated 200,000 scrolls. It is also credited with the invention of parchment, which was named after the city (from "pergamina"). Today, Pergamon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors to explore its archaeological treasures.
• Ephesus (Efes), located near modern-day Selçuk in Turkey, is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world and a significant cultural and historical site. Founded in the 10th century BCE, Ephesus flourished during the Greek and Roman periods, becoming an important center for trade, culture, and religion. - Temple of Artemis: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this grand temple was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. While little remains of it today, its historical importance is unparalleled. - **Library of Celsus**: A stunning Roman-era library built in honor of Tiberius Julius Celsus, it once held thousands of scrolls and remains a symbol of ancient intellectual life. - **Great Theatre**: A massive structure capable of seating around 25,000 people, it hosted dramatic performances, public gatherings, and gladiatorial contests. - Terrace Houses: Luxurious residences adorned with intricate mosaics and frescoes, showcasing the wealth of Ephesus's elite.
• The Pamukkale Thermal Pools are a series of natural hot spring pools located in Pamukkale, Turkey, known for their striking white terraces and crystal-clear waters. These pools were formed over thousands of years as hot mineral-rich water flows from the mountainside, creating travertine formations of calcium carbonate. The thermal water, which is heated by underground geothermal activity, has temperatures ranging from 35°C to 100°C. The terraces of Pamukkale, also known as "Cotton Castle," consist of multiple pools that cascade down the mountainside, creating a stunning visual effect. Visitors can wade in the warm waters of these pools, believed to have therapeutic properties for skin conditions and muscle aches. In addition to the natural pools, the site is home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, with ruins such as an ancient theater, baths, and temples. Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains one of Turkey’s most popular natural attractions, combining beauty,..
• Antalya, located on Turkey's stunning Mediterranean coast, is known for its blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and modern attractions. Key highlights include **Kaleiçi (Old Town)**, with its cobbled streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and landmarks like **Hadrian’s Gate**. The **Antalya Museum** offers a deep dive into the region’s ancient history, displaying artifacts from the Hellenistic and Roman eras. For nature lovers, the **Düden Waterfalls** provide a scenic escape just outside the city. **Konyaaltı Beach** offers a relaxing spot with clear waters and mountain views. The **Aspendos Theatre**, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters, still hosts performances today. **Termessos**, an ancient city on a mountain, offers stunning views and ruins. **Olympos** and the **Chimera** provide a mix of ancient ruins and the natural wonder of eternal flames. Lastly, **Perge** boasts impressive Roman ruins, making Antalya a perfect mix of culture, history, and relaxation.
• The **North Cappadocia Day Tour** is an exciting full-day excursion that covers some of the region's most iconic sites. Key highlights include: 1. Göreme Open-Air Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to rock-cut churches with stunning frescoes dating back to the 10th century. 2. Pasabag (Monks Valley) Known for its fairy chimneys, Pasabag features remarkable mushroom-shaped rock formations. 3. Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)**: Famous for its rock formations resembling animals and various shapes, offering a surreal landscape. 4. Avanos: A charming town on the Kizilirmak River, known for its pottery workshops, where visitors can observe traditional pottery-making. 5. Zelve Open-Air Museum: An ancient village with rock-hewn homes and churches, offering a glimpse into Cappadocia's early cave dwellings. 6. Uçhisar Castle: The highest point in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views of the region. 7. Love Valley: Known for its uniquely shaped rock formations...
• The **Balloon Tour** in **Cappadocia** is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering breathtaking aerial views of the region’s unique landscapes, including fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations. The tour usually takes place early in the morning, providing a magical sunrise backdrop as dozens of colorful balloons fill the sky. The **South Cappadocia Day Tour** typically includes visits to the region's famous landmarks, such as: 1. **Derinkuyu Underground City**: An ancient subterranean city that once housed thousands of people, with multiple levels and tunnels. 2. **Ihlara Valley**: A stunning gorge with rock-hewn churches and a beautiful hiking trail along the Melendiz River. 4. Pigeon Valley: Known for its pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. Together, the balloon tour and South Cappadocia tour offer a comprehensive exploration of Cappadocia’s fascinating history and surreal landscapes.