Turkish Escape

Turkish Escape

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8 Days From

$976

Turkish Escape

8 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey

Visiting: Turkey

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

KQRX-2024

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

0-0

Special diets catered:

Please Advise Request

Tour operated in:

English
From: $976

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Turkey is a unique country with a unique identity straddling both Europe and Asia. Your 8-day Turkish Escape starts in Istanbul, a city of great diversity and a combination of tree-lined boulevards, cafés and cosmopolitan restaurants set against a backdrop where little has changed for centuries. During its 3,000 years of turbulent history, it has been home to the Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans and the Turks themselves- all leaving their marks. Highlights of your sightseeing are inside visits to the 6th century Hagia Sophia, the largest ever church and for over a thousand years the largest covered space on earth and to the amazing Topiaki Palace which was the seat of the government of one of the greatest Empire of the Medieval age.

Pay tribute to the fallen war heroes at the Anzac cemetery and visit 3 of the most famous ancient sites in the country: Troy, Pergamon and Ephesus. Each very different and distinctive. Troy, the oldest, dating from 3,000BC and made up to 9 separate cities all built over each other; Pergamon an impregnable defensive site with amazing views in all directions which flourished as one of the ancient world’s greatest centres of and healing; Ephesus, the greatest city in the Eastern Mediterranean during Roman times which boasts an extraordinary number of superbly preserved monuments.

Cross from Europe to Asia on board a scenic ferry journey across the Dardanelles Straight and get ready to taste the superb Turkish cuisine, an interesting blend of Mediterranean specialties and flavours.

This is the perfect vacation if you are looking for a genuine and unique blend of diverse cultures, centuries of history and an atmosphere the mysterious East with the familiar West.

Highlights

  • Explore the grandeur of Istanbul, including the Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Roman Hippodrome, and the Blue Mosque

  • Visit the WWI battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula, the Anzac Cemetery, and the Lone Pine Memorial

  • Discover the ancient city of Troy with a guided visit

  • Tour the ruins of Pergamum and the Asklepion, a shrine to the Greek God of medicine

  • Walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus and visit the archaeological museum

  • Experience the natural wonders of Pamukkale and visit the thermal resort of Hierapolis

  • Explore Bursa, including the Great Mosque, the covered bazaar, and the silk market

  • Visit Iznik, including St. Sophia’s Church and the Archaeological Museum

Places You'll See

Titanic City Taksim

Doubletree By Hilton Canakkale

Charisma De Luxe Hotel Kusadasi

Adempira Termal & Spa

Moevenpick Bursa Hotel And Thermal Spa

Renaissance Istanbul Polat Bosphorus

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Istanbul,Turkey

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Titanic City

Meals Included: Dinner

At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel.ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL,TURKEY Welcome to Istanbul! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel. (D)

Day 2: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Titanic City

Meals Included: Breakfast

ISTANBUL A Gateway between Orient and Occident ISTANBUL Guided sightseeing includes the Topapki Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Roman Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque followed by a Turkish Delight tasting. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITIONS Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago, and finally called Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between Orient and Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent yet exciting history.

Day 3: Istanbul,Gallipoli,Troy Area

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Doubletree

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

ISTANBUL–GALLIPOLI–TROY AREA Bravery on the BeachGALLIPOLI Visit the WWI battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula, the Anzac Cemetery and the Lone Pine Memorial before crossing the Dardanelless by ferry. (B,D) 236 mi/ 380 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & HERITAGE Visit the moving and inspirational sites, where Allied troops, mainly Australians and New Zealanders, suffered heavy casualties in a disastrous campaign. Pay tribute to the heroes of those tragic months of 1915 at the Anzac Cemetery and the Lone Pine Memorial.

Day 4: Troy Area,Pergamum,Kusadasi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Charisma De Luxe Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

TROY AREA–PERGAMUM–KUSADASI Trojan War TROY Enjoy a guided visitPERGAMUM Guided visit of the Asklepion, a shrine to the Greek God of medicine. (B,D) 267 mi / 430 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT HEALING THE BODY &THE SOUL Nestled between hills, the Asklepion retains a sense of serenity and history. The sick approached the temple via the Sacred Way, a path that started their journey to health determined according to what dreams the patience experienced and which also included theatre shows. All of this was done in the belief that healing was a sacred art and that people’s souls needed to be mended as well as their bodies.

Day 5: Kusadasi,Ephesus,Pamukkale

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Adempira Termal & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

KUSADASI–EPHESUS–PAMUKKALE Ancient Civilization Preserved EPHESUS Follow your Guide for a walk through the ancient ruins and the archaeological museum. (B,D) 137 mi / 220 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Ephesus was one of the most famous cities of the ancient Mediterranean. It was the second biggest city of the Roman Empire and today it is one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean.

Day 6: Pamukkale,Hierapolis,Bursa

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Moevenpick Bursa Hotel And Thermal Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

PAMUKKALE–HIERAPOLIS–BURSA In the Shadow of Mount Olympus HIERAPOLIS Visit the thermal resort founded by a Pergamene king in 190 BCE.BURSA Visit the Great Mosque the covered bazaar and the silk market followed by a Kestane Sekeri tasting. (B) 280mi / 450 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT ANCIENT TASTES ON THE SILK ROAD Wander through the long winding bazaar in Bursa, Turkey’s centuries-old city center, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the buzzing marketplace. Treat your taste buds to one of the city’s famous sweets, the Kestane Sekery, and find the perfect gift for yourself or a friend, a piece of authentic Bursa-made silk.

Day 7: Bursa,Iznik,Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Titanic City

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

BURSA–IZNIK–ISTANBUL Ancient Walls & Ecumenical Council IZNIK Guided visit includes St. Sophia’s Church and the Archaeological museumISTANBUL Farewell dinner at a local restaurant (B,D) 137 mi / 220 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT CERAMIC BEYOND TIMES Iznik is a completely "open-air museum" with its rare ancient history and uniqueness. It is also the birthplace of the world famous Iznik tiles – a treasured artform dating back to the Ottoman Empire.

Day 8: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.ISTANBUL Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Welcome Dinner

    Enjoy a welcome dinner with your tour director and traveling companions on the first day in Istanbul.

  • Guided Sightseeing Tours

    Explore Turkey's rich history and natural beauty with guided tours of Istanbul, the WWI battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula, the ancient city of Troy, the ruins of Pergamum and the Asklepion, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Bursa, and Iznik.

  • Accommodations

    Stay in comfortable and luxurious hotels throughout your journey, including The Artisan Istanbul Mgallery, Kolin Hotel Canakkale, Charisma De Luxe Hotel Kusadasi, Colossae Thermal & Spa Hotel, Moevenpick Bursa Hotel and Thermal Spa, and Movenpick Hotel Istanbul Bosphorus.

  • Meals

    Meals as per itinerary, including breakfasts and dinners at selected hotels and local restaurants.

  • Transportation

    Travel comfortably with all transportation provided as per itinerary, including any in-country flights, coach, or boat transfers.

  • Entrance Fees

    All entrance fees to the sights and museums as mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Tastings

    Experience local flavors with a Turkish Delight tasting in Istanbul and a Kestane Sekeri tasting in Bursa.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure protection against unforeseen events.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and additional meals or drinks outside of the provided meals are not included.

  • Optional Excursions

    Any optional excursions or visits not mentioned in the itinerary are not included and may incur additional costs.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included and are at the discretion of the traveler.

  • Visa Fees

    Any visa fees required for entry into Turkey are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.

UNESCO Sites

Archaeological Site of Troy|Ephesus|Hierapolis-Pamukkale|Historic Areas of Istanbul

Accommodation

Istanbul:The Artisan Istanbul Mgallery
Troy Area:Kolin Hotel Canakkale
Kusadasi:Charisma De Luxe Hotel Kusadasi
Pamukkale:Colossae Thermal & Spa Hotel
Bursa:Moevenpick Bursa Hotel and Thermal Spa
Istanbul:Movenpick Hotel Istanbul Bosphorus

Notes

Uneven terrain of Ephesus' archaeological sites may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.

Meals

7 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

Check out our Q&As

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes, 5 years and above

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Will I know the names & details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

    Yes

  • Will there be an escort accomanying this tour?

    Yes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 08, 2024
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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.