Exploring Turkey’s captivating history and culture has never been easier than with this 5-day small-group tour from Istanbul. Delving into the iconic landmarks of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, visitors will be immersed in the rich heritage of the region. But the true highlights lie in the ancient city of Troy and the historic Gallipoli battlefields, where visitors can uncover the pivotal moments that have shaped the country’s past. With comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and a personalized experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Turkey’s remarkable legacy.

Key Points

  • This 5-day small-group tour from Istanbul includes visits to the historic sites of Gallipoli and Troy, with round-trip transfers and 4-star hotel accommodations.
  • The tour is limited to 20 participants for a personalized experience, accompanied by professional English-speaking local guides.
  • Highlights include guided tours of Istanbul’s landmarks, the Troy Museum and ancient city, and the Gallipoli battlefields, including ANZAC Cove and original trenches.
  • The tour package includes four nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels in Istanbul and Çanakkale, with round-trip airport or hotel transfers provided.
  • Pricing is set at $899 per person, with discounts available for groups of 4 or more, and the tour excludes airfare, personal expenses, and optional activities.

Tour Overview

This 5-day small-group tour from Istanbul offers a personalized exploration of Turkey’s historical highlights, including the iconic sites of Gallipoli and Troy.

The tour is limited to just 20 participants, ensuring a more intimate and customized experience.

Your journey begins and ends in Istanbul, with round-trip airport or hotel transfers included.

You’ll spend four nights in 4-star hotels in Istanbul and Çanakkale, the city nearest to Troy and Gallipoli.

From start to finish, you’ll be accompanied by professional, English-speaking local guides who’ll bring the history and culture of these remarkable destinations to life.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off on Day 1 with your arrival in Istanbul, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel and have the rest of the day free to explore the city at your own pace.

On Day 2, you’ll embark on a full-day guided tour of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Hippodrome, with an optional Bosphorus cruise available.

The next day, you’ll travel to Troy, where you’ll visit the Troy Museum and the ancient city itself.

On Day 4, you’ll head to Gallipoli to tour the memorials and battlefields, including the ANZAC Cove and original trenches.

The tour concludes on Day 5 with free time in Istanbul before your departure.

Accommodation and Transfers

The tour includes four nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels located in Istanbul and Çanakkale. Participants receive round-trip airport or hotel transfers in Istanbul as part of the package. This ensures a seamless start and end to the tour.

The accommodations are chosen to provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the tour’s destinations. Some key details about the accommodation and transfers include:

  • Four nights in 4-star hotels in Istanbul and Çanakkale

  • Round-trip airport or hotel transfers in Istanbul

  • Transfers make it easy to get to and from the tour locations

  • Comfortable and centrally-located hotels for the duration of the tour

The inclusion of these features helps to create a well-organized and hassle-free tour experience for participants.

Included Experiences

Along With the accommodations and transfers, the 5-day Turkey tour includes several engaging experiences that showcase the country’s rich history and cultural attractions. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore iconic sites in Istanbul, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Hippodrome. On day 3, the tour takes visitors to the ancient city of Troy, where they can visit the on-site museum and explore the renowned archaeological site. The Gallipoli Peninsula, a poignant World War I battlefield, is also a highlight, with stops at memorials and original trenches. Throughout the journey, knowledgeable local guides provide historical context and insights.

Destination Key Attraction Duration Highlights
Istanbul Blue Mosque 1 day Ottoman architecture, historic significance
Troy Ancient City 1/2 day Archaeological site, Trojan War history
Gallipoli Battlefields 1 day ANZAC Cove, memorials, original trenches

Meeting and Pickup Details

Travelers can arrange pickup from either Istanbul airports or their hotels, which they’ll need to specify when booking the tour. The local provider recommends confirming the exact start time of the tour prior to arrival.

The tour offers several convenient meeting options:

  1. Istanbul Atatürk Airport

  2. Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

  3. Selected hotels in the Istanbul city center

  4. Other locations within the Istanbul metropolitan area, by request

The pickup service ensures a seamless start to the tour, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the journey ahead without the hassle of navigating transportation on their own.

Advance planning with the local provider is key to a smooth arrival and departure.

Review Highlights

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the tour’s excellent organization and knowledgeable local guides, who bring the historical sites to life.

Participants consistently praise the personalized experience, with one reviewer noting, ‘The small group size allowed for a very intimate and informative tour.’

Another remarked, ‘The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history, which made visiting the Gallipoli battlefields and ancient Troy even more impactful.’

While a few guests mentioned limited food options and early pickup times, the vast majority of feedback is highly enthusiastic, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Pricing and Booking

The 5-day Turkey tour is priced at $899 per person, with discounts available for groups of 4 or more.

Bookings can be made directly through the tour operator’s website, where travelers can select their desired departure date and securely complete their reservation.

The tour package includes:

  1. Round-trip airport or hotel transfers in Istanbul.

  2. Four nights of accommodation in 4-star hotels.

  3. Breakfast and dinner, as well as all transportation in air-conditioned vehicles.

  4. Professional English-speaking guides at each site visited.

Travelers are advised to confirm the start time with the local provider and note that gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.

With limited availability and positive reviews, this Turkey tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive and personalized travel experience.

Tour Exclusions

Aside from the inclusions listed, the 5-day Turkey tour does not cover airfare, personal expenses, and optional activities like the Bosphorus cruise. While the tour provides transportation, accommodations, and guided visits, there are a few additional costs to consider.

Exclusions Details
Airfare Participants must arrange their own flights to and from Istanbul.
Personal Expenses Items such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not specified in the itinerary.
Optional Activities The Bosphorus cruise and any other optional excursions are not included in the tour price.
Gratuities Tips for guides and drivers are not included and are at the discretion of the participants.
Travel Insurance Participants are responsible for obtaining their own travel insurance coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour information, water is provided, but other food and drinks are not included unless specified. Participants are allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages to consume during the tour.

What Should I Pack for the Tour?

To prepare for the tour, travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, a light jacket or sweater, and a reusable water bottle. Packing snacks and additional drinks is optional since some meals are included.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair accessible, though some historical sites and activities may have limited accessibility. Guests in wheelchairs should contact the tour provider to discuss their specific needs and determine if the tour can accommodate them.

Can I Book Additional Optional Excursions?

Yes, travelers can book additional optional excursions during the tour, such as a Bosphorus cruise. The tour operator offers a range of optional activities that can be added to the itinerary, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour’s cancellation and refund policy allows for full refunds up to 30 days before the start date. Within 30 days, partial refunds may be available, but policies can vary. Travelers should check with the provider for the most up-to-date information.

Recap

This 5-day small-group tour from Istanbul offers an immersive exploration of Turkey’s rich history and culture.

Travelers will visit iconic landmarks, the ancient city of Troy, and the historic Gallipoli battlefields.

With comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and a personalized experience, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover Turkey’s captivating heritage.