Today, you’ll walk through empires:
- Hagia Sophia: Built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian, it was the largest cathedral in the world for nearly 1,000 years, a marvel of Byzantine architecture and religious transition.
- Blue Mosque: Renowned for its 20,000 hand-painted blue İznik tiles, this mosque remains an active place of worship and a testament to Ottoman brilliance.
- Hippodrome: Once the social heart of Constantinople, imagine chariot races and political drama where monuments still stand, including the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius.
- Topkapi Palace: The imperial residence of Ottoman sultans for 400 years. Explore the Treasury, the Harem, and ancient Islamic relics.

Optional: Glide between continents on a Bosphorus Cruise passing Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress.

Overnight: Istanbul (5-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

Today we journey to the Gallipoli Peninsula, the site of one of World War I’s most dramatic campaigns. For Australians and New Zealanders, Gallipoli is sacred ground. Here, on April 25, 1915, ANZAC troops stormed the beaches only to face fierce Ottoman resistance. We’ll visit:
- ANZAC Cove: The poignant landing site, now tranquil with memorials that recall the valour and tragedy.
- Lone Pine Cemetery: The final resting place of many soldiers, surrounded by pine trees planted in remembrance.
- Chunuk Bair: A strategic ridge where New Zealand troops fought bravely, now marked by a memorial to their efforts.

We then cross the Dardanelles by ferry to Çanakkale.

Overnight: Çanakkale (5-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

Step into one of the world’s most legendary cities. Troy, immortalised by Homer’s Iliad, reveals layers of history dating back over 4,000 years. Discover:
- The Wooden Horse: A replica of the legendary decoy that brought down Troy.
- Schliemann’s Trench: Where the eccentric 19th-century archaeologist unearthed what he claimed was 'Priam’s Treasure'.
- Multiple Settlements: The city’s ruins span nine major periods from the Early Bronze Age to Roman times.

After exploring Troy, we continue to the coastal town of Kusadasi.

Overnight: Kusadasi (4-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

Today, prepare to be awe-struck by one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Once the second-largest city of the Roman Empire, Ephesus is a masterpiece of Greco-Roman architecture:
- Library of Celsus: Built in 117 AD, its façade is a marvel of symmetry and grandeur.
- Great Theatre: Seating 25,000, it hosted gladiatorial contests and sermons by the Apostle Paul.
- Temple of Artemis: Although only a column remains, it was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Later, we drive south along the Aegean coast to the resort town of Fethiye.

Overnight: Fethiye (4-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

Today is dedicated to natural wonders. We begin with:
- Saklıkent Gorge: At 300 meters deep, it is one of the deepest canyons in the world. Formed by the Eşen River, it offers a dramatic landscape of narrow cliffs and icy streams—a perfect spot for walking, wading, and nature photography.

Then we continue to:
- Ölüdeniz Lagoon: Famous for its still, turquoise-blue waters, the 'Dead Sea' of Turkey is ideal for swimming and relaxing. Optional paragliding from Babadağ Mountain offers breathtaking aerial views of the coast.

Return to Fethiye in the evening.

Overnight: Fethiye (4-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

This serene day offers a blend of archaeology and wildlife:
- Dalyan River: Cruise along reed-lined canals with views of the stunning Lycian rock-cut tombs of Kaunos (ca. 4th century BC). These tombs, hewn directly into the cliff face, served as eternal resting places for the elite.
- Mud Baths: A fun and therapeutic dip in mineral-rich clay believed to have anti-aging properties.
- Iztuzu Beach: Also known as Turtle Beach, this sandy stretch is a nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles.

Overnight: Fethiye (4-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces are like nothing else on Earth. These calcium deposits from thermal springs create natural infinity pools:
- Hierapolis: Founded in the 2nd century BC, this Greco-Roman spa city includes a well-preserved theatre, a massive necropolis, and the ancient thermal pool where legend says Cleopatra bathed.
- Travertines: Walk barefoot on the terraces as warm mineral waters cascade through the pools.

Overnight: Pamukkale (4-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

Journey into the heart of Anatolia. En route to Cappadocia, enjoy the ever-changing landscapes of central Turkey.
- Derinkuyu Underground City: This subterranean refuge descends eight levels and was once home to thousands. It features ventilation shafts, kitchens, and even chapels—testament to the ingenuity of early Christians.

Optional: Enjoy a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam) in the evening.

Overnight: Cappadocia (4-star hotel) | Meals: Breakfast

End your journey with awe-inspiring sights:
- Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride: Greet the sunrise as you float above fairy chimneys, vineyards, and volcanic valleys.
- Göreme Open-Air Museum: A UNESCO treasure, home to rock-hewn churches adorned with well-preserved Byzantine frescoes.
- Uçhisar Castle: A natural rock citadel offering panoramic views over the surreal terrain.
- Pottery Workshop in Avanos: Learn about the traditional craft practiced since Hittite times (ca. 1800 BC).

Later in the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Istanbul.

Tour ends at Istanbul Airport at approximately 9:30 PM.

Meals: Breakfast