After breakfast, begin a full-day guided tour through Istanbul’s old city. Discover the Hippodrome, once the centre of sporting and political events in Byzantine times. Marvel at the Blue Mosque, adorned with over 20,000 Iznik tiles, and the majestic Hagia Sophia—an architectural wonder that has served as both a church and mosque. Enjoy lunch and a shopping experience at a local bazaar for spices, Turkish delights, and handmade crafts. 

 Depart early for Gallipoli, a profoundly moving experience for many Australians and New Zealanders. Walk through the battlefields where ANZAC soldiers fought during World War I. Sites visited include ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, and the Gallipoli Museum. 

 After breakfast, travel to the ancient city of Troy, famous for the Trojan Horse and its role in Homer’s Iliad. Continue to Pergamon, once a powerful ancient Greek city known for its impressive acropolis, library, and temples. This was also one of the Seven Churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. The journey ends in Kusadasi, a coastal town on the Aegean.  

 Today you’ll visit Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world. Walk along marble-paved streets to see the Temple of Artemis, Celsus Library, Roman baths, and the Grand Theatre. Visit a local carpet-weaving centre and then head to the hillside village of Sirince, famous for its fruit wines and Greek-style architecture. Enjoy a wine tasting and learn about village life in rural Turkey. 

 Travel to Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its surreal white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich hot springs. Explore the ancient Roman spa town of Hierapolis, where you’ll find an amphitheatre, ancient baths, and necropolis. Optional tandem paragliding is available for those looking to view this unique landscape from the sky. In the evening, relax at your thermal hotel with access to natural hot springs. 

 Start early with a hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale and Hierapolis at sunrise—a breathtaking and serene experience. After breakfast, transfer to Denizli Airport for your domestic flight to Istanbul. Your tour ends upon arrival in Istanbul.  

Final day in Istanbul, transfers to airport provided if necessaary