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21 Day Treasures of Turkey & Aegean Cruise (Grade A)
Premium Coach Tour starting in Istanbul and finishing in Athens
Countries Visited: Turkey Greece
Tour Type: Discovery
Tour Duration: 21 Days (20 Nights)
From: Istanbul to Athens
Tour Code: A949A
Operator: Insight Vacations
from AU $3,900 pp
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Tour Description

In ancient times, Turkey was a major player in the Mediterranean. It's in vogue once again, but now it's the historic sites, natural wonders and value for money that are drawing the crowds. A well paced tour. In Antalya you have a free day to relax. In towns and cities with one-night stays, the driving days are not too long and have frequent stops for sightseeing. The Istanbul Conrad hails from the

What's Included

Quality Dining

  • A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
  • A spectacular highlight folklore show in an underground cave in Cappadocia (HD)
  • Enjoy a lively Celebration dinner at an Istanbul restaurant (CD)
  • 14 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 10 special-menu Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

First Class Services

  • Escorted by a professional multilingual Tour Director
  • Headsets for all guided visits and walking tours
  • Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with extended leg room and on-board restroom
  • Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
  • Insight Traveller Welcome pack
  • Arrival and departure transfers between the airport and your Insight tour hotel

Highlights

  • Istanbul: Visit the fabulour Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Basilica of St. Sophia. A complete guide on how to haggle in the Grand Bazaar! Embark on a cruise along the Bosphorus.
  • Iznik: Visit the ruins of St. Sophia and see the city walls.
  • Bursa: Visit the Grand Mosque and the Green Mosque.
  • Ankara: Visit Ataturk's Mausoleum and Hittite Museum.
  • Cappadocla: Visit the mausoleum of Haci Bektas and Sultanhani Caravanserai.
  • Göreme: Explore the amazing underground houses and rock carved churches.
  • Kaymakli: Tour this underground city.
  • Konya: Visit famous Mevlana Museum.
  • Aspendos: Visit the world's best preserved Roman Theatre.
  • Perge: Visit the ancient ruins.
  • Pamukkale: Visit Hierapolis and the 'Cotton Castle'. Visit the Temple of Aphrodite at Aphrodisias.
  • Ephesus: Tour one of the world's finest archeological sites. Visit the House of the Virgin mary.
  • Selcuk: Visit the Archeological Museum.
  • Pergamon: Visit the famous shrine of Asklepion.
  • Troy: View the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.
  • Gallipoli: Visit Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery.

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Day
1
Istanbul At Leisure
Welcome to Turkey! You are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Settle in and relax, or start exploring the wonders of this glorious city, uniquely located on two continents! This evening join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception and light informal meal.
Stay: Conrad Istanbul/Hilton/Crowne Plaza Harbiye (RW)
Day
2
Istanbul - Bursa
Embark on a superb Highlight cruise along the Bosphorus past Ottoman palaces, old mansions and fortresses. Leaving Istanbul, take a short ferry trip and drive to Iznik. Visit the ruins of St Sophia and see the city walls before continuing to Bursa. In the afternoon there is time to haggle in the bazaar and silk markets.
Stay: Thermal Kervansaray (BB/D)
Day
3
Bursa - Ankara
Visit the glorious Green Mosque and Mausoleum complex and Grand Mosque in Bursa before driving to the charming Cumalikizik Village with its traditional wooden houses and narrow cobblestone streets. Visit Gordion, where Alexander the Great cut the famous Gordion Knot, en route to Turkey's modern capital, Ankara.
Stay: Hilton (BB/D)
Day
4
Ankara - Cappadocia
Sightseeing includes a visit to the Hittite Museum, portraying the fascinating history of Asia Minor from earliest times. You also visit Anit Kabir, the mausoleum of Ataturk, Turkey's greatest leader in modern times. Visit the mausoleum of Sufi philosopher Haci Bektas before heading to Nevsehir in the Cappadocia region.
Stay: Dedeman (BB/D)
Day
5
Cappadocia - Goreme Excursion
In this unique region of volcanic landscapes and `fairy-chimneys', visit Göreme's rock-carved churches, and see ancient frescoes in the open-air museum. Visit the underground city of Kaymakli and see the cone of Uchisar. Dinner at the hotel is followed by a folklore show in an underground cave, featuring dances from different regions. (BB/HD)
Day
6
Cappadocia - Konya
Visit the Caravanserai of Sultanhani before driving to Turkey's most religious city, Konya, which was once the home of the mystic sect of Whirling Dervishes and the old capital of the Anatolian Seljuk Empire. Visit the Mevlana Museum, with its beautiful fluted turquoise dome, and see the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret.
Stay: Dedeman (BB/D)
Day
7
Konya - Antalya
Descend the Taurus mountains and drive to Aspendos to visit what is considered the best preserved Roman Theatre anywhere in the world. Drive to the Hellenistic or Roman city of Perge to visit the extensive ruins, including the great Theatre, the Stadium, and the gate-towers leading into a street where ancient chariot ruts can still be seen. As night falls, enjoy a walking tour of Antalya's Old Town.
Stay: Crowne Plaza & Harrington Park Resort (BB/D)
Day
8
Antalya At Leisure
The day is set aside for you to relax and enjoy the leisure facilities of the hotel. Alternatively, explore Antalya at your own pace, suggestions include a stroll around the harbour area or taking a boat trip off the coast. (BB/D)
Day
9
Antalya - Pamukkale
Pass pine forests and cross the Taurus mountains on your way to Pamukkale. On arrival, visit the ruins of Hierapolis and the beautiful `Cotton Castle' - an apt description of its dazzling white limestone terraces.
Stay: Thermal Colossae (BB/D)
Day
10
Pamukkale - Kusadasi
Visit the Temple of Aphrodite at amazing Aphrodisias before following the Maeander River valley, (so full of twists and turns gives us the word `meander') to your beautiful beach-front hotel in the lively coastal town of Kusadasi.
Stay: Charisma/Korumar (BB/D)
Day
11
Kusadasi - Izmir
Tour one of the world's finest archeological sites, Ephesus. Visit the Amphitheatre and walk along the Arcadian Way to view the splendid facade of the Library of Celsus. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, situated above the ruins, before continuing to the Selçuk archeological museum, where many artefacts from Ephesus are displayed. Stay overnight in the pleasant Aegean port of Izmir.
Stay: Swissôtel Grand Efes/Hilton (BB/D)
Day
12
Izmir - Çanakkale
Stop in Pergamon, the impressive site of an ancient kingdom, to visit the Asklepion, one of the most famous shrines and therapeutic centres in the ancient world. Drive to Homer's Troy to see the ruins of nine cities built on top of each other, and an enormous reconstruction of the famous wooden horse. The evening is spent in Çanakkale.
Stay: Kolin (BB/D)
Day
13
Çanakkale - Istanbul
Cross the Dardanelle Straits by ferry and continue to the Gallipoli Peninsula, scene of fierce fighting in World War One. Here are the battle-fields where for nine disastrous months Anzac Troops fought unsuccessfully to gain control of the strategic Straits, with the loss of over half a million lives. Pay your respects at Anzac Cove and visit the emotive Lone Pine Cemetery before returning to Istanbul.
Stay: Conrad Istanbul/Hilton/Crowne Plaza Harbiye (BB)
Day
14
Istanbul Sightseeing
Visit the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held. Also visit St Sophia, a former cathedral and a mosque which is now a magnificent museum. The afternoon is dedicated to the Topkapi Palace, a walled city perched above the Bosphorous and the Golden Horn. Now it's time to test your haggling skills in the Grand Bazaar. Don't worry, your guide will give you a full explanation of the time-honoured ritual of bargaining! This evening, join a farewell Celebration Dinner at a colourful local restaurant! (BB/HD)
Day
15
Istanbul
Transfer to your ship and set sail. (BB/L/D)
Day
16
Cruising - Izmir
Arrive at the Turkish port of Izmir. (BB/L/D/S)
Day
17
Cruising - Patmos - Mykonos
Arrive early at the island of Patmos. Later, dock at the island of Mykonos. Tonight enjoy a Greek Evening and Dinner. (BB/L/HD/S)
Day
18
Cruising - Rhodes
A day is to explore Rhodes at your leisure. Meet the Captain at dinner tonight. (BB/L/D/S)
Day
19
Cruising - Crete - Santorini
The morning is devoted to Heraklion on the island of Crete. Later, depart for Santorini, an island famous for its white cuboid houses that cling to the sheer cliffs. (BB/L/D/S)
Day
20
Piraeus (Athens)
Disembark and transfer to your Athens hotel where you are at leisure.
Stay: Ledra Marriott (BB)
Day
21
Athens
After breakfast, transfer to the airport. (BB)
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Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 Season Sale! Save up to $240 per couple. Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month only to qualify! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

START DATE END DATE BROCHURE
(Twin Share)
BROCHURE
(Single)
OUR
SAVINGS
OUR
PRICE
20 May 2012 09 Jun 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
27 May 2012 16 Jun 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
03 Jun 2012 23 Jun 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
10 Jun 2012 30 Jun 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
17 Jun 2012 07 Jul 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
24 Jun 2012 14 Jul 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
01 Jul 2012 21 Jul 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
08 Jul 2012 28 Jul 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
15 Jul 2012 04 Aug 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
22 Jul 2012 11 Aug 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
29 Jul 2012 18 Aug 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
05 Aug 2012 25 Aug 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
12 Aug 2012 01 Sep 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
19 Aug 2012 08 Sep 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
26 Aug 2012 15 Sep 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
02 Sep 2012 22 Sep 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
09 Sep 2012 29 Sep 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
16 Sep 2012 06 Oct 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
23 Sep 2012 13 Oct 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
30 Sep 2012 20 Oct 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
07 Oct 2012 27 Oct 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900
14 Oct 2012 03 Nov 2012 AU $4,020 AU $5,180 Save $120 AU $3,900

Note: The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart. We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.

Flights:

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  The prices on our site are land only prices. If you would like to include flights with your quote, then we have some amazing specials for you to take advantage of! Flight specials only apply for clients booking this tour from Global Journeys. Terms & Conditions apply and full details will be provided in your quote.



General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations, Europe's premier escorted tour operator, provides premium escorted motorcoach vacations throughout Britain, Ireland, Europe, Scandinavia the Eastern Mediterranean and North America. 'The Art of Touring in Style' lies at the very heart of Insight philosophy. Our carefully chosen unique features and impeccable service standards enable us to deliver exceptional quality, unequalled value, unforgettable memories and personal freedom at levels currently unrivalled elsewhere in the industry.


Tour Type: Discovery

These exciting tours allow you to experience a 'snapshot' of Europe. They range from four to thirty-four days' duration, with many relaxing two and three-night stays. Expertly planned, their sightseeing inclusions give you fantastic touring and free time.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose a premium Insight Vacation?

Insight is completely unique. Simply, we are the only tour operator to give you more legroom on every tour at no extra cost: you'll consistently stay in quality hotels in desirable locations; you'll enjoy more included sightseeing; and because you'll travel in smaller groups (max 40 people), you'll receive better personal service from your experienced Tour Director and Tour Driver.

When will I receive my documents?

Documents will normally be mailed 21 days prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

Who else will be travelling with me?

Insight Vacations plays host to over 100,000 guests every year and has offices in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore and the UK . The company has also appointed specialist agents in Argentina, Brazil, Mauritius, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Korea, Taiwan and China. It is therefore quite typical to find many different nationalities on any one tour.

How many people will be on tour with me?

With only 40 guests on our premium tours instead of the standard 53, Insight clients enjoy a more personalised service. In a smaller group, you'll be closer to your local guide for a more in-depth experience, you'll spend less time waiting to get into sights and it will be faster checking into hotels with your luggage arriving quicker to your room. Insight groups are smaller, more intimate and more friendly.

Will the coach be modern and comfortable?

Yet another exclusive feature of an Insight premium tour is the incredible space and comfort you'll enjoy when travelling. Our luxury coaches have been specially reconfigured with fewer seats, you'll relax in style whilst enjoying up to twice as much legroom than on a standard touring coach.

Where will my hotel be located and what will it be like?

Insight hotels are consistently first class standard and higher or in a style appropriate to the destination. They have been selected because they are good private or small collection hotels or from well-known chains such as Marriott, Renaissance and Hilton. Insight also chooses hotels based on their location. We know you'll prefer to stay centrally, convenient to the main historic, shopping or entertainment districts; or scenically in areas of natural beauty.

What are Insight Tour Directors like?

Time & time again, our guests tell us that it was their Tour Director who really made their trip. Our Tour Directors are amongst the finest in the business and will help steer you through the labyrinth of Europe 's cultures, languages and diversities and bring its magic to life before your eyes.

I want to see all the main sights, but will I have time to explore on my own?

At Insight, planning the perfect tour is our speciality. Not only to we include the 'must see' sights, we carefully balance our itineraries to give you plenty of free time to relax and immerse yourself in the location.

What does the tour cost include?

The prices listed cover all hotel accommodations, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motorcoach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Insight Tour Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on tour by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Are tips included?

On an Insight Vacation, some gratuities are included in the price of your trip: baggage handling, meal service for all meals listed in the tour itinerary, and hotel service charge. Room service, however, is not included in the tour price. Tips are customarily given to your Tour Director, Driver and Local Guides at your discretion. The recommended amounts are: Tour Directors EUR4 per day, Drivers EUR2.50 per day and Local Guides EUR1 per day. The option to prepay these tips prior to departure is possible. Please ask your consultant to include this in your quote.

What is an 'Optional Activity'?

These are activities that we do not automatically include but are offered at the start of your tour designed to enhance your travel experience. Your Tour Director will have a list of available options and the appropriate costs. They are carefully programmed to coincide with the best highlights available at the time of your visit. It could be a seafood lunch in Venice, a concert in Vienna or a Grand Canyon Helicopter ride. A detailed list and costs can be found in your tour documentation.

Do you have a share program for singles?

If you wish to share with another tour member you can advise Global Journeys at the time of booking. Insight believes that traveling solo doesn't have to cost you more. We will try to match you with someone of the same sex in order to avoid having to pay the single supplement. If we are not able to provide a suitable roommate, we will provide a single room at no extra cost. Several tours do not provide this option (generally tours containing a cruise component) and so the Single Supplement applies.

Do you have a non-smoking policy?

There is a no smoking policy motorcoach touring policy. However, we do make plenty of convenience stops giving you the opportunity to smoke, use local restroom facilities, take a scenic snapshot or just relax and enjoy of cup of coffee.

Where can I find out more information on Insight?

We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on Insight including FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on their 'Touring Styles', and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their tours. Read more> (NB: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).


Airport Transfer Information

Transfers Athens, Cairo, Tel Aviv, Amman And Istanbul

An Insight bonus in the Eastern Mediterranean region! Insight is pleased to offer complimentary airport transfers at any time either on the first or last day of the tour or on other days in conjunction with pre and post tour accommodation booked through Insight. Flight timings must be provided to Global Journeys no less than 21 days before the flight departure.

Terms & Conditions:

Yep, all the boring small print! We still recommend you read it all though, as no one likes surprises. Click here to read them now - they will open in a new window, or print them off to read over later with a cup of coffee!

 

Yvonne Brooks

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Yvonne Brooks
Tour Consultant
Email: yvonne@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: International Coach Touring & River Cruising
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