Turkish Escape

Embark on an escape to Turkey to discover a country of captivating culture across its transcontinental peninsula. Spanning the borders of Asia and Europe, this fascinating country of culture and colour is calling with an 8-day Turkish Escape for the ages! Your adventure begins 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 Topkapi Palace which was the seat of government for one of the greatest Empires 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 healing; and 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 Strait 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 atmosphere, the mysterious East with the familiar West.

Your Holiday Package Includes:

• 7-night Turkish Escape guided tour with Globus, Istanbul return

Includes:

• Superior accommodation
• 12 meals – 7 breakfasts, 5 dinners
• Touring by private, air-conditioned motorcoach
• Dardanelles crossing by ferry
• Free Wi-Fi (where available)
• Select highlights & activities
• Hotel taxes, porterage, tips & service charges

Pricing is per person twin share and based on travel 22 – 29 November 2026

Other dates available, seasonal surcharges apply

Extend your holiday with a cruise, speak with your travel consultant

Itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul!

At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: East meets West

Discover Istanbul with a captivating, guided sightseeing tour. Visit the Roman Hippodrome and hear about the events held there. Marvel at the six minarets of the Blue Mosque, and the intricate decoration and blue hues of its interior. Stand below the breathtaking dome of the Hagia Sophia, visit Topkapi Palace to see how the Sultan’s lived, and discover a shopper’s paradise with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, the largest covered market in the world, spread over 60 streets and location of over 4000 shops! Enjoy Globus Local Favourite a traditional Turkish coffee experience at a historical coffee roaster.

Day 3: Bravery on the Beach 

This morning, drive to the Gallipoli peninsula and visit the WWI battlefields, the Anzac Cemetery, the Lone Pine Memorial, and Chunuk Bair Memorial sites before crossing the Dardanelles by ferry. Later, enjoy a fascinating guided visit to the archaeological site, dating back over 4000 years. See the symbolic wooden Trojan Horse that commemorates the Trojan War, it was supposedly the winning tactic.

Day 4: The Sacred Way

This morning drive to Pergamum for a guided visit of the Asklepion, a healing temple and shrine to the Greek God of medicine. Continue your journey and arrive in Ephesus to visit the Archaeological Museum for an introduction to the city and its people.

Day 5: Ancient Civilization Preserved

Start your day at the incredible archaeological site of Ephesus and be captivated by stories as you follow your Local Guide on a fascinating walking tour through the ancient ruins, including St. John's Basilica, believed to be the burial site of the apostle John. Later, arrive at the ancient city of Hierapolis for a visit, founded as a thermal resort around 190 BC, and said to have been visited by Cleopatra. See the main attractions and take time to marvel at the stunning backdrop of Pamukkale with its travertine terraces and thermal water pools.

Day 6: In the Shadow of Mount Olympus

This morning, drive to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire. Your sightseeing tour features a visit to the Great Mosque (Ulu Cai), an architectural masterpiece famous for its twenty domes supported by twelve pillars. Plus, visit the historical, covered bazaar and silk market followed by a Kestane Sekeri tasting. Enjoy free time this evening to explore more.

Day 7: Ancient Walls & Ecumenical Council

Drive to Iznik, a significant town located on the banks of Lake Iznik and famous for its vibrantly coloured tiles and pottery. Your guided sightseeing tour includes a visit to the Great Mosque (St. Sophia’s Church) and the Archaeological Museum. After some free time, continue to Istanbul and join your travel companions this evening for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 8: Safe travels until we meet again!

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

Prices listed are per person in AUD, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking and shown on the lowest category available at the time.  Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 28-08-2026 and can be withdrawn without notice.   Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes unless otherwise stated.  Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included.  Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.