Compare Highlights of Turkey by Exodus Travels vs Turkey Tales by Geckos Adventures

Day 1 Start Istanbul

Make your own way to the start hotel and check in. There is no sightseeing planned today (an orientation walk is included on your return to Istanbul on Day 14). Istanbul is one of the great cities with a history spanning thousands of years. It has been through several incarnations, firstly as Byzantium, then Constantinople and finally Istanbul. If there is time, you can wander through the busy streets and absorb the vibrancy of this exciting city linking Europe and Asia. Accommodation: Samir Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 Transfer to Çanakkale via Gallipoli peninsula

There’s a welcome meeting at 9am. Then we depart for the Gallipoli peninsula, the site of many significant battles during the First World War. We visit the battlefields, learn about the events that took place here, and their particular importance to the ANZAC (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps). We then cross the Dardanelles Strait, arriving in the city of Çanakkale in the late afternoon. Approximate driving time from Istanbul to Çanakkale is 5hr 30min (not including stop in Gallipoli). Accommodation: Cura Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 Visit the ancient city of Troy; head to the Aegean coastal town of Ayvalik

This morning after breakfast we visit the city of Troy, immortalised in Homer’s Iliad and once thought to be a place of legend. We see the remnants of the ancient city walls and a reconstruction of the famed wooden horse, while learning more about the ground-breaking archaeological digs that took place here. We continue this afternoon to the seaside town of Ayvalik on the Aegean coast in the northwest. Surrounded by an archipelago of picturesque islands, the town is full of historic stone houses, narrow cobblestoned streets and small shops/cafes selling local produce. We have free time to explore the town, perhaps sampling some of the renowned local olive oil or Ayvalik tost (similar to a club sandwich). Approximate driving time from Çanakkale to Ayvalik is 3hr 30min. Accommodation: Bacacan Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 Visit the ancient city of Pergamon; afternoon transfer to Selcuk

After breakfast, we depart for the ancient Greek city and Unesco World Heritage site of Pergamon, the capital of the Attalid dynasty during the Hellenistic period (approximately 323 BCE to 31 BCE). We take a scenic cable car ride up to the Acropolis, which contains the most important remains of Pergamon. See the temples, palaces, library and theatre and learn about the significance of this special archaeological site. We continue to the charming town of Selcuk, where the evening will be free for you to rest or explore at leisure. Approximate driving time from Ayvalik to Selcuk is 2hr 30min. Accommodation: Hitit Hotel (or similar)

Day 5 Visit the historic site of Ephesus and the town of Selçuk

This morning, we visit the ancient site of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and a great example of Greco-Roman architecture. Always an important religious centre, Ephesus was founded by Ionian Greeks in the 11th century BCE and flourished under Roman rule. The Greeks replaced the cult of the Anatolian fertility goddess Cybele with Artemis and built a fabulous temple in her honour. With the arrival of the Romans, it became the Temple of Diana and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We visit the vast amphitheatre, stroll the marble streets once graced by Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and wonderfully restored Library of Celsus. After the Ephesus visit, we head to Selçuk and visit Isa Bey Mosque (a fine example of early Seljukian architecture) and St John's Basilica. There will also be free time, during which we recommend a visit to the fascinating Ephesus Archaeological Museum. We return to Selçuk for the evening. Accommodation: Hitit Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 Explore the limestone cascades of Pamukkale and the Roman ruins of Hierapolis

We drive to Pamukkale today, also known as Cotton Castle. This spectacular natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming myriad pools and terraces. As the water overflows from the pools, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that, from afar, resemble cotton or snow. The pools are filled with hot spring waters that supposedly have healing properties and are great place for a relaxing dip. Close to Pamukkale are the ruins of Hierapolis, which was founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BCE and by the second century CE had become an important Roman bath centre. The extensive ruins of Hierapolis are well worth exploring and include a theatre, temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica and necropolis. We spend the afternoon discovering the travertines and ancient city. Approximate driving time from Selcuk to Pamukkale is 3hr-3hr 30min. Accommodation: Melrose House Hotel (or similar)

Day 7 Visit Xanthos; transfer to coastal town of Kaş

We depart Pamukkale this morning and travel to the seaside town of Kaş. On the way, we stop at Xanthos, the capital city of the Lycian Federation and arguably the most important city throughout Lycian history. After a guided visit, we continue on the road to Kaş. Situated on the Teke Peninsula, the small port town of Kaş was known as Habesos or Habesa in ancient Lycia, and as Antiphellos to the ancient Greeks. Today, there are several Lycian rock-cut sarcophagi in the town, plus a well-preserved Hellenistic theatre on the outskirts of town. The afternoon is free to explore the cobbled streets, handicraft shops and lively cafes. Approximate driving time from Pamukkale to Kaş is four hours. Accommodation: Kayahan Hotel (or similar)

Day 8 Free day to rest or choose from the many activities available

Today is a free day to relax or take advantage of the many activities available on the Turquoise Coast in and around Kaş. Options include a boat trip to the sunken city of Kekova (minimum of eight passengers required), relaxing at Kaputas Beach or a visit to the ancient theatre in Kaş. Accommodation: Kayahan Hotel (or similar)

Day 9 Transfer to the lively city of Antalya; afternoon sightseeing

This morning, we depart for Antalya, one of the most popular beach resorts in Turkey. Arriving in the early afternoon, we visit the Kaleiçi (the historic city centre). With narrow, cobbled streets and Ottoman-era houses, the Kaleiçi has retained much historical character while hosting a plethora of bars, restaurants and shops. During our walk, we see Hadrian's Gate (also known as the Triple Gate due to its three archways), the old Roman harbour and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. You may also want to visit the Antalya Museum this afternoon, which as a wonderful collection of sculptures from the Roman period or the ancient city ruins of Phaselis. Approximate driving time from Kaş to Antalya is 3hr 30min. Accommodation: Argos Hotel (or similar)

Day 10 Visit the ancient city of Perge & theatre of Aspendos; afternoon transfer to Konya

This morning, we visit the ancient city of Perge, birthplace of the Greek mathematician Appollonius of Perga. Then we travel to Aspendos, home to the best-preserved theatre of the ancient world. Once named Belkis, the city was founded by the Hittites, but it was Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius (161CE-180CE) who ordered the 15,000-seater theatre to be built. After exploring the ancient site, which is still used for performances today, we continue to Konya, known as Iconium in Roman times. Konya was an important city of the Seljuk empire and is the birthplace of the mystic Sufi order popularly known as the Whirling Dervishes. Approximate driving time from Antalya to Konya is 4hr 30min. Accommodation: Bera Hotel (or similar)

Day 11 Visit the Mevlana Museum then to the Cappadocia region

This morning we visit the Mevlana Museum, the former home of the Whirling Dervishes and the location of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi's tomb. Mevlana, also known simply as Rumi, was a 13th-century Anatolian mystic and Muslim saint whose poetry is known across the world. The museum is now a pilgrimage site and the building's fluted dome of turquoise tiles is one of the most recognisable sights in Turkey. We continue to the fascinating Cappadocia region. Shaped by wind and water, the rock formations, rock-hewn churches, cave dwellings and underground cities are a true marvel. This afternoon, we visit the 13th-century Sultanhani Caravanserai, one of the largest in the world and once used by Silk Road travellers. Our last stop of the day is the breath-taking Ihlara Valley on the slopes of Mount Hasan (one of the volcanoes responsible for the formation of Cappadocia). We embark on a walk beside the Melendiz River, seeing beautiful natural scenery and dozens of rock-hewn churches and monasteries, many of which are decorated with exquisite biblical frescoes. We end the day at our accommodation in Göreme. Approximate driving time from Konya to Cappadocia is four hours. Accommodation: Akuzun Hotel (or similar)

Day 12 Discover Göreme Open-Air Museum and one of the fascinating underground cities in Cappadocia

Early in the morning, you have the option to experience a memorable hot-air balloon ride over the otherworldly fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. After breakfast, we visit the Unesco World Heritage-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum, a vast monastic complex comprising churches, monasteries and dwellings, plus an underground city. Thought to have started life as a Byzantine monastic settlement, Göreme Open-Air Museum became a pilgrimage site during the 17th century and is a must-see location for all visitors to Cappadocia. The rock-hewn churches contain wonderful frescoes, whose colours are still vivid after hundreds of years. We also visit one of the fascinating underground cities in Cappadocia (Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, depending on availability and other local considerations). It is believed these cities were formed as early as the eighth century BCE by the Phrygians to protect their inhabitants from wars and conflicts. The dwellings continued to be used until the early 20th century when they were abandoned. Accommodation: Akuzun Hotel (or similar)

Day 13 Flight to Istanbul. Afternoon optional city tour

This morning, we say goodbye to Cappadocia and take a flight to where it all began: Istanbul. On arrival, you may wish to join your leader for a trip across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of the city. Here you’ll find lively, close-knit communities and jumbles of cute cafes, markets and restaurants. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore more of this enthralling city. Or you may opt for a Turkish bath treatment. Accommodation: Samir Hotel (or similar)

Day 14 Free time; afternoon sightseeing including the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar

The morning is free. In the afternoon, you may have free time or you can take an orientation walk around this culture- and history-rich city. We head to Sultanahmet (the Old City, formerly Constantinople), where ancient empires were found and historical sites intertwine with the living, breathing Istanbul of today. We visit sites including the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, where Byzantine emperors observed chariot races along with thousands of baying fans. We also meander through the Grand Bazaar, packed with more than 3,000 stalls of handcrafted jewellery, textiles and books, along with the renowned Spice Market. Accommodation: Samir Hotel (or similar)

Day 15 End Istanbul

Our adventure ends after breakfast. If you’d like a little more time to explore this enchanting city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Day 1 Istanbul

Welcome to Turkey. This adventures kicks off in Istanbul, the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and now you (for one night at least) have called home. You’ve got the whole day free to explore the capital city (depending on when you get here of course) before you join up with your Geckos crew and leader at a Welcome Meeting at 6pm – make sure you’ve got all your important documents and details for your leader. Double check with the hotel reception or the check out the hotel’s noticeboard for meeting confirmations. Until then, maybe get out into the city streets for the must-sees: the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and stunning Aya Sofya. The must-eats: kebab, balık ekmek (fish sandwich) and steamed corn from a street vendor. Your hotel is right in the thick of the action so you won’t have to walk far for your first kebab. If you can, maybe arrive early and lose yourself and splash some cash in the Grand Bazaar, indulge in a traditional hamam (Turkish bath) or cruise the waters of the Bosphorus. After the meeting, head out on an optional group dinner, a good introduction to some fabulous Turkish cuisine in a street-side cafe. Notes: If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive at the hotel by early evening, you may wish to arrive a day early, so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please contact the hotel reception.

Day 2 Canakkale

Today you’ll take a bus to the shores of Gallipoli (approximately 5.5 hours) to pay your respects at a site of immense significance for Australians and New Zealanders. It is a spot of pilgrimage and reverence and the calm lapping waters belies the murderous campaign that took place here during the First World War. This now-serene site is located at Turkey’s most westerly point and you’ll get a sobering insight into the plight of the ANZAC, Allied and Turkish forces at the site of one of the most significant military battles in Australia’s history. It’s hard to think that this area was once Anzac Cove and the battlefields of Nek and Lone Pine, and saw such brutal scenes of war. It’s possible to look down upon the rough and barren hills and gullies that sadly became the graveyard for so many thousands of young men from both sides. Here you can hear stories of heroism and camaraderie that unfolded among the tragedies, and take the time to read moving inscriptions etched onto a sea of gravestones. Spend the evening of day two in Canakkale.  The city has young local vibe due to it being a popular spot to go to Uni. Chill on the edge of the Dardanelles with an Efes or check out a local band. Don't leave town without trying the cheesy desert thing.

Day 3 Ayvalik

There's the option this morning to take an excursion out to the ruins of Troy (sans golden-haired and armoured Brad Pitt), where you can explore the ancient walls, climb around the 4,500 year-old ruins, check out the Trojan horse statue and gaze across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the waters of the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Later drive down the coast to Ayvalik (approximately 3.5 hours), a town where you can fill up on food and drink, and a place that even takes its name from food (ayva is Turkish for quince). The town is famous for olive oil, but we suggest finding the nearest seaside cafe and ordering Ayvalik toast – a toasted sanga stuffed with sausage, pickle, tomatoes, salad and chips, slathered with tomato sauce and mayonnaise. Try not to drool on the screen. Take an orientation tour of Ayvalik and discover a town that’s a fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish cultures (in fact the island actually swapped all its Greek residents for Turks in 1923). Check out the cobblestone backstreets, beautiful houses and lively cafes.  You could also hop on a boat from Ayvalık to Cunda Island, filled with Greek Orthodox churches and famous for its dairy farming – a cheese-fest awaits. Back in Ayvalık, the village is set around a harbour and looks out to the Aegean Islands, so a drink at a harbourside bar is a great way to enjoy the sunset.

Day 4 Selçuk

Get your entertainment ready this morning as you’re going to be driving approximately 4 hours by local bus to the traditional farming village of Selçuk, where many Turkish traditions live on. Take an orientation tour around Selçuk, a town full of history and packed with artefacts and relics that reflect its past as an ancient fortress on Ayasoluk Hill. You’ll discover how the town itself is usually undisturbed, which gives the opportunity to experience the ‘real’ Turkey.  Later you can head out to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Marc Anthony and Cleopatra. This is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world; founded by Ionian Greeks in the 11th century BC, brought to full flower under Roman rule, and always an important religious centre. You will be amazed by the sophistication of this ancient city, which had running water, public toilets, in house heating, a renowned medical institute, a brothel and Roman baths. The theatre is well preserved (be brave and stand in the middle of the stage, and give us your best Idol audition), but it’s the magnificent library that’s going to take your breath away. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  Chill out tonight in Selçuk, and maybe try Turkish Meze and Raki for dinner.

Day 5 Pamukkale

Travel east inland to Pamukkale (approximately 4 hours), which literally translates to “cotton castle”. Here spectacular natural hot springs with high calcium bicarbonate content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, leaving bright white deposit terraces (the ‘cotton’). It's been used as a spa since the 2nd century BC. These pools are said to fix up any circulation and digestion problems you might have. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, then maybe choose to head out to the ancient city of Hierapolis and take a dip in what used to be her old pool – the transparent water-filled pool, sculpted as a gift from Marc to Cleo, are jaw dropping (even if you’ll be sharing it with a few more people than she did). You can also check out the other ruins of the city – Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheatre shouldn’t be missed.

Day 6 Faralya

Travel to the seriously blue... Blue Lagoon by public bus and enjoy some beach time before jumping on a local bus to Faralya (travel time 5 hours), not really big enough to be called a village, this picturesque hamlet is located on the edge of a canyon overlooking the crystal clear Mediterranean, and is considered to be one of the most stunning and amazing places in Turkey/    This is where the locals come to get away from it all, and you can too. Watch a sunset like no other from the best vantage point your bean bag with your beer in hand, hang by the pool and enjoy an al fresco dinner with your new friends. Some times travel can be such hard work ! Tents or Bungalows tonight which will it be?

Day 7 Fethiye

Enjoy as leisurely start to the day as you take this morning to perfect your relaxation technique in this untouched heaven Later we head  to Fethiye. Maybe check out the Ghost Village, (where they filmed the Water Diviner) jump on "dolmus" to Saklikent Gorge or explore the back streets of the old town of Fethiye and hunt for a bargain... you decide. Tonight we enjoy a walk by the harbour, try local seafood and check out the thriving night life.

Day 8 Southern Coast Sailing

This morning you’ll take a local bus to Kas (approximately 3 hours), which is right on one of the southernmost bit of Turkey. With its whitewashed buildings covered in bougainvillea and cobbled streets, Kas is one of the most attractive towns on the Turkish Mediterranean Coast. Spend an hour or two lunching and wandering the pretty streets, before you transfer an hour down the road to Kekova. Here you’ll board your sturdy vessel and make waves on a memorable voyage along the Turquoise Coast. Check out some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world – it’s just ridiculously good-looking. You’ve got a tough couple of days ahead: swimming, exploring sunken cities, sunbaking and eating fresh seafood. Grin and bear it. This afternoon, cruise to Tersane bay for a swim and then enjoy a home cooked dinner on board, before docking for the night and sleeping under a blanket of Mediterranean stars.

Day 9 Southern Coast Sailing

It’s a hard knock life on the Turkish seas – wake up to a spectacular Mediterranean sunrise this morning and enjoy a hearty breakfast on board. Perfect your best boat-life pose as you cruise to a sunken city, from where remains of a mysterious civilisation can be viewed. Earthquakes almost 2,500 years ago sunk this half of the Lycian city of Simena. Here you can walk up to nearby Simena Castle, swim in crystal clear waters, or explore Lycian rock tombs. More swimming, exploring, sunbaking and eating... can you handle that much action. Lucky you will spend another memorable night on the boat, under the stars if you feel like it.

Day 10 Antalya

Soak up the last of life as a glamorous boat-dweller with breakfast on board. Then transfer by public bus approximately 3.5 hours to Antalya, the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya (unless your finger is over the lens) thanks to cobblestone streets, the old city, the marina and the Taurus Mountains in the distance. You can spend the afternoon exploring the charming back streets of the Kaleiçi (old city), get historical in one of the best museums in the country, get theatrical at Aspendos (a beautiful intact theatre from Roman times), hit the beach once more at Mermerli Beach, or just try not to cry into your börek as your totally terrific Turkey trip terminates tonight.

Day 11 Antalya - Cappadocia

This morning you will meet the rest of your group. This takes place at 8 am the at the hotel. From here, you'll head to the station and take a bus to Goreme, a town in Cappadocia (approximately 9.5 hours). Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride, young adventurer. Tonight, we stay in a local Guest House and get to know Nazim and his family. Take an orientation walk with your trip leader and maybe an afternoon visit to Ortahisar Castle. Then settle in for an enjoyable night overlooking a secluded valley and some good home cooking Cappadoicia Style. Aghhh the serenity.

Day 12 Cappadocia

Phallic rocks, fairy chimneys and underground cities. Cappadocia’s got it all. This morning you have the option of taking a very early hot-air balloon over the crazy landscapes at sunrise (those who choose to take this optional extra will have a seriously excellent time, and your friends back home might think you've been to another planet when they see your photos). Later in the morning it's time to go underground and explore the cities down there. There are 36 underground cities in Cappadocia; the widest is Kaymakli, the deepest is Derinkuyu. These rabbit-warren metropolises were lovingly carved into the earth by the Hittites around 3,500 years ago. If that doesn’t get you excited, you’re a robot. Later on there will be free time to hit the nightlife of Goreme, or go to a Whirling Dervish 'Sema' performance (optional).  Notes: The hot-air balloon activity can only be booked locally. Please speak to your trip leader on Day 1 to organise this.

Day 13 Cappadocia

Put your boots on and hike up hills and over mountains to Goreme. Check into our local hotel and spend the afternoon resting of course maybe lounging on the cushions in "Fat Boys" a game of backgammon anyone? If the muscles are a little sore from all the walking then you can always try a local Hamam. Don't worry about your Luggage they will be transferred to your hotel. Thanks Nazim! Thank you Driver! The total distance you walk will depend on the group and which route is taken.

Day 14 Cappadocia - Overnight bus

Spend the day exploring the Cappadocia area some more. If you like, you can stop by the Göreme Open Air Museum, a medieval wonderland of old rock-cut churches and frescoes. For a very different taste of the dizzyingly diverse landscape around here, you could check out Avanos, which is a chilled-out little town about 10 minutes away, known for its pottery and a 'red' river. Tonight it's time to say goodbye to Cappadocia (take a couple of last photos as you fight back the tears) and catch your overnight bus to Istanbul (approximately 10–12 hours).

Day 15 Istanbul

Your trip comes to an end this morning on arrival into Istanbul. But it's a great idea to stay a little longer. So many activities, so little time. You can get all cultural at the Blue Mosque, splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar (the rugs ain't cheap, but they are beautiful and handmade), take a ferry cruise along the blue waters of Bosphorus (this is awesome and only costs a few Turkish Lira, unlike the some of the houses you will see on the shore as you cruise past), or just eat your weight in last-minute pides. You can’t really go wrong. Please note: if you wish to book a flight out of Istanbul today, we recommend avoiding flights before 1pm to allow for any delays on your overnight bus.