11D Fire of Anatolia

Price from $4799 per person on Twin sharing basis

Istanbul – Cappadocia – Konya ­– Pamukkale – Kusadasi – Troy – Cannakale – Gallipoli – Istanbul

The Fire of Anatolia Tour is an 11-day journey through Turkey’s most iconic historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. This immersive tour allows travelers to walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations, experience the legacy of empires, and pay tribute to the heroes of Gallipoli. Your adventure begins in Istanbul, where you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Old City, visiting landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. A Bosphorus Cruise offers a stunning perspective of the city, where East meets West. Flying to Cappadocia, you’ll marvel at its otherworldly landscapes, cave dwellings, and underground cities. In Konya, the spiritual heart of Turkey, you’ll visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to Rumi. A delightful wine-tasting experience in Sirince adds a special touch to this cultural immersion. This tour is perfect for travellers who want to dive deep into Turkey’s history and witness spectacular natural wonders.

Itinerary

Day 1

Fri, Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul. You will be transferred to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours, free to explore Istanbul.

Day 2

Sat, Istanbul Old City (B)

Tour the exotic city that spans both Europe and Asia visiting the Topkapi Palace (including Hagia Irene and the Harem), Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum and the Hippodrome.

Day 3

Sun, Istanbul – Cappadocia (B/D)

After breakfast, cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia in the afternoon with a 1-hour Bosphorus cruise by public ferry where your guide will explain the historical sites along the way. This afternoon there is a flight to Cappadocia, upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free time to explore.

Day 4

Mon, Cappadocia (B/D)

Marvel at the lunar landscape of Cappadocia today as we visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and the fairy chimneys and explore the many levels of an underground city. Photo opportunities are everywhere so have your cameras ready! Tonight, don't miss the optional Turkish folklore evening featuring folklore and belly dancers. a night you won't forget!

Day 5

Tue, Cappadocia – Konya (B/D)

We will visit the mausoleum of Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, the great 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet, whose teachings continue to inspire people worldwide. Inside the Mevlana Museum, we will explore his beautifully adorned tomb, ancient manuscripts, and exhibits on the Whirling Dervishes and their spiritual traditions. Continuing our journey along the legendary Silk Road, we will visit the Çatalhöyük Museum, which brings to life the fascinating history of one of the world’s oldest and most advanced Neolithic settlements.

Day 6

Wed, Konya – Pamukkale (B/D)

Today we head for Pamukkale and it's calcium travertines. Visit the ruins of Hierapolis, the Temple of Apollo, Necropolis, and stroll over the magnificent white calcium terraces of Pamukkale.

Day 7

Thu, Pamukkale – Kusadasi (B/D)

Today, we will explore Laodicea ancient city which was the chief city of the Lycus River Valley region. The full name of the city was Laodicea ad Lyceum (Laodicea on the Lycus). The city was originally known as Diospolis ("the City of Zeus"). The Greek deity considered to be the greatest of the Olympian gods. This afternoon we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods.

Day 8

Fri, Kusadasi – Ephesus – Kusadasi (B/D)

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus, once a bustling trade hub and religious center. Ephesus today whispers of ancient marvels, from the site of the Temple of Artemis to the grand facade of the Library of Celsus and the impressive amphitheater. We will also visit the Ephesus Archaeology Museum, where artifacts from the ancient city bring its history to life. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey, and at the carpet village, we will learn how carpets are made by hand and what determines their value. Afterward, we head to Sirince for a wine tasting experience.

Day 9

Sat, Kusadasi – Canakkale (B/D)

Step back in time today as we continue on to Bergama and up to the magnificent acropolis of Pergamon. Its impressive temples and library made it a renowned cultural and political centre in its time. We continue on and visit Troy where we will explore the ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the new, award winning, Troy Museum.

Day 10

Sun, Canakkale – Istanbul (B)

After breakfast, we visit the WW1 Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, original trenches and tunnels before driving to back to Istanbul.

Day 11

Mon, Istanbul (B)

After breakfast, our tour concludes, and we say goodbye to our new friends before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Includes: 10 nights’ accommodation, meals, transfers & tours in airconditioned vehicles, English speaking guide, monuments entrances

Small group tour operated is by Fez Travel Turkey

Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.

Start Dates:

2025:   Aug 1, 15, 29; Sep 12, 26; Oct 10, 24; Nov 7, 21

2026:   Mar 13, 27; Apr 10, 24; May 8, 22; Jun 5, 19; Jul 3, 17, 31; Aug 14, 28; Sep 11, 25, Oct 9, 23; Nov 6, 20