Welcome to Istanbul, a city unlike any other. Spanning two continents, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus, with one shore in Europe and the other in Asia, creating a distinctive fusion of diverse cultures. From traditional tea houses to contemporary art galleries, this compelling mix of contrasts is truly captivating. With its extraordinary blend of East and West, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00 pm.

At 6:00pm, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director before walking to a local restaurant for a drink and a lovely welcome dinner.

Our first stop of the day is a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today, it is filled with treasures and antiquities, including 12000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We then continue to a local café that’s renowned for their traditional treats since 1864. Yum!

Once we’ve satisfied our taste buds, we’ll proceed to the famous Grand Bazaar. Built in 1457 AD, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It is most famous for its antique shops, jewellery, carpets, hand-painted ceramics, embroideries and spices. We’ll also make our way to the exotic Spice Bazaar, where you’ll have some time to browse through the stalls at your leisure and soak up the scents of hundreds of spices permeating the air.

Later this afternoon, we will embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, as we gently cruise past marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek.

Get ready to spend a full day immersing in the incredible Istanbul. We begin our day with a visit to the Underground Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantium Cistern. Built in 532 AD during the reign of Emperor Justinian, this unique spot is truly a sight to behold with its hundreds of columns brightly lit up.

Next, we’ll explore Istanbul’s most famous architectural wonders. First up, is the impressive domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), which has inspired architects, scholars and historians for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this site was constructed in 326 AD by Constantine the Great; the current church dates back to 537 AD and has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque. Our next destination is the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the scene of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history.

We will then head to the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time.

In the late afternoon, we’ll take a scenic drive through Istanbul toward one of its most iconic landmarks, the legendary Pera Palace Hotel.

Nestled in the heart of Beyoğlu and famed for hosting the likes of Agatha Christie and Ernest Hemingway, the Pera Palace is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau and Orientalist design. Here, we’ll enjoy a beautifully curated high tea experience, surrounded by ornate chandeliers, velvet furnishings and the timeless elegance of an era when the Orient Express brought Europe’s elite to Istanbul’s doorstep.

After this indulgent experience, the evening is yours to spend at leisure — unwind in the comfort of your luxurious surroundings, enjoy dinner at your own pace or take an evening stroll to soak up Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere.

This morning, we say goodbye to Istanbul as we set our eyes on Gallipoli, our destination for the day. Today is an incredibly moving day. It is a tangible reminder of a not-so-distant past and a significant event in history that shaped Australia's national identity.

We visit the World War I battlefields, most notable for being held by the ANZACs from 25th April to 20th December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified burials with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial.

We’ll continue onto Çanakkale, our home for the night. Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years!

We start our day with a short drive to the legendary ancient city of Troy. Over its 4,000-year existence, Troy has experienced the rise and fall of nine distinct settlements, spanning from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire. If that doesn't give you goosebumps, the sight of the Trojan Horse replica at the city gates certainly will. We'll continue to explore the surroundings, including the famed city central to the Iliad, the Odyssey of Homer, and Virgil's Aeneid. Once thought to be purely mythical, these sites were unveiled as real when archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann unearthed the ruins near the modern city.

Next on the agenda is the charming Greek-Turkish village of Adatepe, nestled in the foothills of the stunning Ida Mountains. We’ll delve into the rich history and traditional techniques of olive pressing and harvesting in Türkiye at the Adatepe Olive Oil Museum. We’ll also have the chance to sample some of the local produce.

We’ll then continue to Kuşadası, our home for the next two nights.

Our morning begins with a visit to the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus. As the largest and most significant Roman city ever unearthed, stepping into Ephesus is like travelling back in time. Its remarkably preserved ruins span centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire, when it served as the Mediterranean's primary commercial centre.

Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus offers a glimpse into daily life from those eras. We'll explore ancient gymnasiums and bathhouses, marvel at the Library of Celsus, and see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products.

Next, we'll head to the charming and breathtaking village of Şirince. This scenic town is rich in history and culture, with its beautiful stone houses gracing the hillside, creating a truly picturesque setting.

After a long day, we'll unwind with an evening at leisure upon returning to our hotel in Kuşadası. This lively coastal paradise, blessed with around 300 days of sunshine each year, offers plenty to explore. Or you can simply choose to unwind and watch the world go by at one of the town's many seafront restaurants.

After a leisurely morning in Kuşadası, we’ll make our way to the Karnas Vineyards, tucked away in the lush rolling hills of the Aegean Valley.

Renowned for their award-winning wines produced with traditional and sustainable methods, this family-owned boutique winery is set on endless stretches of sprawling vines. A visit here will make you feel as if you’ve stepped right into a postcard! They’re known for growing several varieties of grapes, including Zinfandel, Syrah (Shiraz), Cabernet Franc and Vermentino.

Our next stop is Bodrum, a coastal city sitting on a rugged peninsula that offers a true Mediterranean experience. This town boasts abundant bays and pristine beaches along its stunning coastline. The sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea are beyond inviting. Beautiful scenery aside, this town is bursting with history and iconic landmarks and has a rich cultural heritage to match. Plus, the cuisine found here is otherworldly – if you are a fan of seafood, prepare to find heaven in Bodrum!

Arriving here, we’ll enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

We will spend this morning exploring Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, a medieval waterfront fortification. Situated on a small rocky peninsula, the castle was built from 1402 AD onwards by the Knights of St. John. While here, we’ll visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed within the rooms and towers of the Bodrum Castle. This fascinating museum features artifacts from the 16th century, including remains from ancient shipwrecks.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Bodrum at your own pace. Relax at a seaside café or wander through the lively bazaars, where you’ll find everything from handmade goods to beautiful jewellery and unique souvenirs.

Today we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cappadocia. The region is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, characterised by towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys that have been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. We’ll transfer to the airport for our midday flight, via Istanbul to Cappadocia.

Complimenting Cappadocia’s otherworldly charm is our accommodation for the next two nights. We’ll get the chance to stay in ‘cave rooms’, an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends together history, culture and comfort – this is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the true Cappadocia!

Please note: The cave hotel is located right in the heart of Cappadocia, which dates back thousands of years. This means there are multiple flights of stairs, plenty of steps and uneven cobblestone ground to navigate. Rooms are scattered across multiple levels - they are not inside a singular building. Meeting our mobility and fitness requirements are essential. No two rooms are the same with quirky layouts that can be dimly lit. While these rooms are still comfortable remember you are staying in a cave! These are incredibly unique and a once in a lifetime experience to stay in this unforgettable location.

For those that choose to do hot air ballooning, we have an early start this morning.

We will have time to rest before commencing with the rest of the days’ sightseeing. Our first stop of the day is the local municipality carpet cooperation where we’ll learn about this intricate and age-old artform of Turkish weaving.

We continue on to explore the spectacular landscape of Göreme Valley. Over thousands of years, the rain has eroded this landscape to give rise to unique rock formations known as 'Fairy Chimneys'. Many of these formations now have homes and churches carved into them. Some of the grottoes are even magnificently decorated with colourful frescoes depicting biblical scenes.

Later today, we will visit a local family where we’ll get the chance to learn about their lifestyle and the local way of life in Cappadocia. This evening we’ll enjoy dinner in a local family restaurant.

This morning begins at a gentler pace, with breakfast and some well-earned leisure time to enjoy the quiet rhythm of Cappadocia. Whether you take a slow walk, sip a final Turkish tea, or simply soak up the last views of the valley, it’s the perfect moment to breathe before the day’s discoveries.

Later this morning, we’ll depart for Avanos Village, a charming town set along the Kızılırmak River, famous for its centuries long tradition of pottery making and carpet weaving. While here, we’ll visit a local workshop for a ceramic art lecture, where master artisans continue ancient techniques passed down through generations. Watching clay transform beneath skilled hands offers fascinating insight into a craft that has long defined this region.

Next, we make our way to the incredible underground city of Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Today, only four of these levels are accessible by the public. It is believed that the origins of Ozkonak dates back to the fourth century BC and was greatly expanded and deepened during the Byzantine era.

This afternoon, we’ll make our way to the airport, wrapping up our unforgettable Turkish journey as we prepare to fly onward to Egypt.

We’ll arrive in Egypt’s capital city of Cairo late this evening, and transfer to our hotel nestled by the Nile River.

'Salam' and welcome to the bustling hub of Cairo, set along the legendary Nile River. It's Egypt's largest city and truly one of a kind. We'll see how ancient history meets modern life here in the most fascinating way. From majestic temples and towering pyramids to colourful streets and bustling markets, Cairo dazzles with layers of Pharaonic, Roman, Greek and Islamic influences. As the cultural heart of the Middle East, the city is famous for its rich history, thriving arts scene and mouthwatering cuisine that will delight any food lover.

We’ll enjoy the morning at leisure to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early afternoon.

This afternoon, we’ll meet out Egyptologist before stepping into a world of gold-tipped doors and secret gardens! Cairo’s royal palaces are ready to dazzle with sparkling halls, intricate mosaics and the echoes of royalty in every corner. Wander corridors where kings once roamed, snap selfies by grand fountains and let the magic of Egyptian history take your breath away.

This evening, we’ll savour another mouthwatering welcome dinner to mark the start of our Egyptian adventure.

We're set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the most iconic sites in the world. We’ll begin with one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the majestic Great Pyramids of Giza. These iconic structures are the oldest surviving wonders of their kind and continue to inspire awe. The largest of the three, built for Pharaoh Khufu around 2600 BC, once stood an astonishing 481 feet tall and remains largely intact today. His son Khafre and grandson Menkaure built the two slightly smaller pyramids nearby, creating a royal legacy that has stood for thousands of years.

Not far from the pyramids, we’ll come face-to-face with the Great Sphinx. With the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, it’s one of the most recognisable statues in the world. Believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre, the Sphinx continues to intrigue historians and visitors alike with its mysterious origins.

We’ll sit down to a delicious Middle Eastern lunch with what might just be the best view in town. This beautiful open-air restaurant offers sweeping views of the Great Pyramids, making it the perfect spot to pause, relax and take a few memorable photos.

After lunch, we’ll head to the impressive new Grand Egyptian Museum, just a short drive away. This world-class museum holds an incredible collection of ancient treasures, including the famous galleries dedicated to King Tutankhamun. Greeted by the towering statue of Ramses II at the entrance, we’ll explore some of Egypt’s most remarkable artefacts in a stunning, modern setting.

With over 100 pyramids scattered across Egypt, it’s easy to forget how many quietly rest beyond the famous silhouettes of Giza.

Today, we’ll step off the well-trodden path and explore a more peaceful side of Egypt’s ancient story, starting with Sakkara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first pyramid ever built in Egypt.

It’s believed to have been designed by the renowned vizier Imhotep, one of the first recognised architects in the world. While here, we’ll also visit the fascinating Serapeum of Sakkara, the ancient resting place of the sacred Apis bulls, once worshipped in Memphis.

After a morning of discovery, we’ll take a leisurely break at a local farm, where a beautiful farm-to-table lunch awaits.

We’ll then bid farewell to Cairo and take a short flight to Luxor, the jewel of ancient Upper Egypt. Nestled on the east bank of the Nile, this beautiful city is home to some of Egypt’s most impressive and iconic temples. Here, we’ll meet with our Upper Egypt guide and check into our hotel. This evening will be yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today, we’ll begin our adventure with a visit to the majestic Karnak Temple. Spanning over 2 square kilometres, this grand complex was shaped over 1,500 years by nearly 30 pharaohs. Once the spiritual heart of ancient Egypt, Karnak was dedicated to the powerful Theban triad: Amun, Mut and Khonsu. Wandering through its towering columns and sacred courtyards feels like stepping straight into another world.

Next, we’ll stop by a local papyrus gallery, where we’ll see how this ancient reed was carefully crafted into scrolls and artwork. It’s a lovely opportunity to learn about this timeless tradition and perhaps choose a piece as a keepsake.

This afternoon, we’ll return to our hotel for some well-earned rest and a chance to recharge. As evening sets in, we’ll head to Luxor Temple, a truly unforgettable sight under the fading glow of sunset.

Luxor Temple is connected to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre-long Avenue of Sphinxes. It’s also home to a 25-metre-tall pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s when one was given to France. It now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris.

Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, and today we’ll step into its extraordinary history with a half-day tour of the West Bank of the Nile. Our first stop is the legendary Valley of the Kings, where Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs were laid to rest for nearly 500 years. We’ll wander through tombs carved deep into the cliffs and step inside Tutankhamun’s famed tomb, the boy king whose resting place is adorned with beautifully preserved hieroglyphs that tell tales of the afterlife.

From here, we’ll visit the elegant Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a powerful woman who ruled as pharaoh and left behind a temple that still inspires awe. We’ll continue on to the towering Colossi of Memnon, two giant statues that have stood watch over the Theban plain for thousands of years.
Before we return, we’ll stop at a local alabaster workshop, where skilled artisans bring smooth stone to life using techniques passed down through generations.

This afternoon, we’ll board our Nile River cruise ship and settle in with lunch on deck. As the boat begins to glide south, take in the timeless scenery with palm groves, quiet villages and the golden glow of the river. In ancient times, the Nile was seen as the lifeblood of Egypt and over the next few days, we’ll explore some of the remarkable sites built along its banks.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a vibrant belly dancing show. It’s a joyful celebration of rhythm, storytelling and Egyptian spirit.

After breakfast, we’ll set off on a scenic drive to discover one of Egypt’s best-kept secrets, the Temple of Dendera.

Surrounded by peaceful countryside, this remarkably preserved site often surprises visitors with its grandeur and vivid colours. The main temple is dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, pleasure, beauty and music. As we wander through its grand halls, we’ll see exquisite artwork and vibrant reliefs that tell stories of ancient rituals and myths. The colourful ceilings and intricate carvings make Dendera a truly magical place to explore.

After soaking in the beauty of Dendera, we’ll return to Luxor and rejoin our elegant Nile cruise. Cruising the Nile feels timeless, especially knowing that many vessels still follow the same routes as ancient Egyptian royalty. Legend has it Cleopatra once sailed these very waters aboard a lavish barge.

This afternoon, we’ll pass through the Esna Lock as we continue our journey south. Located near the town of Esna, this lock helps boats navigate the river by managing water flow around the Esna Barrage, keeping our cruise smooth and steady.

Located on the West Bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan, the town of Edfu greets us this morning with a quiet charm that feels a world away from the modern rush. After stepping ashore, we’ll board a short bus ride that takes us to the magnificent Temple of Horus, dedicated to the falcon-headed god of protection. It’s one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt and second in size only to Karnak Temple. As we pass through its towering gateways and peaceful courtyards, it’s easy to imagine the ceremonies and legends that once brought this sacred space to life.

After our visit, we’ll return to the comfort of our cruise ship and continue our journey along the Nile. The scenery is lovely, with palm-lined banks, farmers at work in their fields and the occasional villages coming into view like postcards from another time.

Later this afternoon, we’ll disembark to explore the remarkable riverside temple of Kom Ombo. This unusual ‘double’ temple is dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god and Horus, the falcon god. It’s full of beautiful carvings, including depictions of ancient surgical tools still clearly etched in stone.

Back on board this evening, we'll let our hair down for a light-hearted Galabeya Show, where guests are invited to dress in traditional Egyptian robes for a lively evening of music and celebration.

Departing Kom Ombo in the early morning, we’ll continue sailing south toward the relaxed and scenic city of Aswan. Once we arrive, we’ll head straight to the airport for a short flight to one of Egypt’s most extraordinary sites, the temples of Abu Simbel.

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is truly a wonder to behold. Carved directly into the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, the twin temples were created to honour both himself and his beloved queen, Nefertari. Standing before these colossal statues, it’s impossible not to feel awestruck by their sheer scale and artistry. We’ll spend time here wandering through the grand halls, admiring the beautifully preserved carvings, and soaking up the grandeur of a monument that has stood for over 3,000 years.

After our visit, we’ll fly back to Aswan and return to our cruise ship for a relaxing evening.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a colourful Nubian show on board. With lively music, dancing and traditional dress, it’s a joyful way to experience the culture of one of Egypt’s oldest communities.

Today, we’ll disembark our Nile cruise and say goodbye to the wonderful crew who’ve made our time on the river so memorable. But our journey continues, as we spend the day exploring the rich culture and colourful heritage of Aswan.

Our first stop is the stunning Philae Temple, once a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic and motherhood. The temple sits peacefully on Agilkia Island, where it was relocated to save it from flooding after the Aswan High Dam was built. It’s a breathtaking spot, full of stories, carvings and quiet charm. We’ll stroll through graceful colonnades, admire exquisite carvings and soak in the temple’s serene, spiritual atmosphere.

Next, we’ll visit the Nubian Museum, which offers a powerful glimpse into one of the world’s oldest and most resilient cultures, with beautifully curated exhibits that tell stories of ancient kingdoms and enduring tradition.

This afternoon, we’ll check into the legendary Old Cataract Hotel.

Perched above the Nile’s edge, the Old Cataract is steeped in romance and history. With its Moorish arches, polished marble and sweeping river views, it has welcomed statesmen, archaeologists and storytellers alike. Agatha Christie even penned part of 'Death on the Nile' here. Today, we become part of that legacy. Here, history and luxury don’t just meet — they embrace, inviting us into a living story of elegance and charm.

This afternoon we’ll step aboard a felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat, and drift along the Nile around Kitchener Island. It’s a slow and soothing ride, with gentle breezes, calm waters and lush gardens lining the banks. The perfect way to end the day, with the sun low in the sky and the river at its peaceful.

This morning begins at a slower pace, with breakfast and some well-earned leisure time to soak up the scenic beauty of Aswan. Watch traditional feluccas glide across the Nile, admire the golden desert hills rising beyond the riverbanks, or simply relax with a coffee as the city eases into the day.

Waving goodbye to Aswan, we’ll transfer to the airport to board our flight back to Cairo. Sit back and relax as the landscapes change below, marking the transition from the tranquil rhythms of the Nile to the energetic pulse of Egypt’s capital.

Arriving in bustling Cairo this afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel before enjoying some free time to explore at your own pace.

Tonight, we’ll gather for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the journey we've shared and the friendships made along the way.

Today marks the end of our incredible journey through Türkiye and Egypt. After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to this magical part of the world as we begin our journey home. We hope you return home with lasting memories, enriched by the beauty, history and warmth of the people and places we’ve explored together!

Please note, in order to undertake the following optional tours additional post tour accommodation in Cairo may be required. Please check with your Travel Specialist for details.