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Let's start from scratch to design a 5-day customized package to explore Western Turkey with a local tour guide in a small group. We'll begin by visiting the highlights of Istanbul, such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar. Then, we'll head to Gallipoli, known for one of history's most dramatic battles and as the home of the Trojan Horse legend.
After Gallipoli, we'll journey to Pergamon, where John wrote his letter. Pergamon served as a capital city for nearly four centuries, and we'll walk on the ancient roads of this well-preserved Greco-city. Nearby, we'll also explore the House of the Holy Mary.
This 5-day itinerary promises an immersive experience into the rich history and culture of Western Turkey, guided by a knowledgeable local tour guide.
Day 1: Istanbul Arrival
Upon your arrival at either Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW), you will be warmly welcomed by your driver who will then transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, you can relax and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy your overnight stay in Istanbul, preparing for the exciting days of exploration ahead.
Day 2: Full Day Old City Tour B Walking
You’ll visit; Hagia Sophia - Blue Mosque - Topkapi Palace - Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar
According to your group tour schedule, you'll meet your guide at the lobby of your hotel at the designated pick-up time. From there, you'll embark on a full-day tour to the heart of Sultanahmet.
First, you'll visit the Blue Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet, renowned for its unique feature of six minarets. Admire its splendid interiors adorned with distinctive blue tiles.
Next, you'll explore the remnants of the Hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races once captivated audiences. Marvel at the three monumental columns and fountain that still stand as reminders of its glorious past.
Afterwards, you'll delve into the rich history of the Topkapi Palace, once the seat of the Ottoman Empire and now a museum housing a vast collection of porcelain, antiques, holy relics, and other treasures.
Following a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, your tour continues to the Hagia Sophia, a marvel of architecture and once the largest cathedral in the world for nearly a millennium. Learn about its fascinating history as it transitioned from a basilica to a mosque under Sultan Mehmet II.
Concluding your day, you'll explore the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered markets globally, boasting over 60 streets and 5,000 shops. Immerse yourself in its authentic oriental atmosphere as you browse through a plethora of goods, including gifts, leather clothing, rugs, antiques, jewelry, and hand-woven fabrics.
After the tour, you'll be driven back to your hotel to rest and reflect on the day's enriching experiences. Enjoy your overnight stay in Istanbul, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await on the remainder of your journey.
Day 3: Full Day Gallipolli & Troy Tour
Following your pick-up from your hotel according to the agreed-upon time, you'll embark on a journey to Canakkale. Once there, your guided tour of the ANZAC Battlefields will commence, immersing you in the historical significance of the region.
Your itinerary includes visits to Brighton Beach, ANZAC Cove, Beach Cemetery, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Turkish and Allied tunnels and trenches at Johnston’s Jolly, 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial, and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial. These sites offer poignant insights into the realities of war and commemorate the sacrifices made by soldiers from various nations during the ANZAC campaign.
Continuing your exploration, you'll proceed to the Troya Archaeological Site, a UNESCO-recognized site where the ruins of the ancient kingdom of Troy await. As you stroll through this historic site, you'll encounter landmarks that have left an indelible mark on global culture, including the Trojan War, Trojan Horse, Helen of Troy, and Prince Paris. Witness the battleground where Achilles and Hector clashed, marvel at the Walls of Troy II and the Megaron House, and explore the Roman bath, Odeon, the Temple of Athena, and other ruins that evoke the grandeur of ancient civilizations.
After a day filled with historical immersion and cultural discovery, you'll check into your accommodation in Canakkale, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. Enjoy your overnight stay in anticipation of further adventures awaiting you in this fascinating region.
Day 4: Full Day Pergamum & Aaklepion Tour
After breakfast at your hotel, it's time to check out and embark on a journey to Pergamum, a city steeped in history and culture.
Pergamum served as a capital city for nearly four centuries and has been a witness to various civilizations spanning from the Stone and Bronze Ages to the Archaic and Classical Periods. Among its temples, palaces, and agoras, the Asclepion stands out, featuring the grand Zeus Altar and the Parchment Library. It's worth noting that Pergamum was where John wrote his letter, adding to its historical significance.
You'll also visit the ruins of Asklepion, known as "The Pergamum God of Health," which served as a medical center of great importance for several hundred years. Scholars such as Hippocrates and Galenus were born and worked here, contributing to its reputation as a hub of medical knowledge and practice.
As you travel to Pergamum, feast your eyes on the stunning Aegean Sea views, adorned with lush olive trees and glimpses of Greek and Turkish islands along the way.
Your day of exploration concludes as you arrive in Kusadasi, where you'll spend the night. Relax and unwind, reflecting on the rich history and cultural heritage you've experienced throughout the day. Enjoy your overnight stay, anticipating the adventures that await you in Kusadasi and beyond.
Day 05: Full Day Ephesus - Virgin Mary - Artemis Temple Tour & Izmir Departure
You’ll visit; Ephesus - The Temple of Artemis - The House of Virgin Mary
As per your tour pick-up time, you'll meet your guide to embark on a full-day adventure, beginning with a visit to the House of Virgin Mary. This sacred site, declared by the church to be the final home where Mary spent her last days, features a church built from the 6th century AD atop the foundations of a 1st-century AD house.
Continuing your journey, you'll explore the ancient city of Ephesus, renowned as the best-preserved classical city in the Eastern Mediterranean. Once the second-largest city on Earth after Rome, Ephesus boasted a population of over 250,000 citizens. Among its many marvels, you'll discover the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Walking through the ancient streets of Ephesus, you'll be transported back in time, surrounded by magnificent monuments such as the third-largest library of the ancient world and the largest Roman theatre on the Asian continent.
After immersing yourself in the rich history and grandeur of Ephesus, your tour continues with a visit to the Temple of Artemis or Artemision, known for its ancient cult dedicated to Artemis. This temple attracted pilgrims from far and wide, making Ephesus a renowned pilgrimage destination in antiquity.
As your day of exploration comes to a close, you'll be driven to Izmir Airport, marking the end of our service. Reflecting on the incredible sights and experiences of the day, you'll depart with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of Western Turkey.
