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8 Day Turkish Delights
Premium Coach Tour starting in Istanbul and finishing in Istanbul
Countries Visited: Turkey
Tour Type: Regional
Tour Duration: 8 Days (7 Nights)
From: Istanbul to Istanbul
Tour Code: I950
Operator: Insight Vacations
from AU $1,235 pp
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Tour Description

Due to its unique strategic position, straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey has been shaped by many different civilisations over the centuries. Today, the country's dazzling array of archaeological and cultural wonders are yours to enjoy. This tour bursts with highlights, including Ephesus, Troy, and Topkapi Palace. All the while, you are assured of a warm welcome and fantastic hospitality.

What's Included

Quality Dining

  • A Welcome Reception with light informal meal (WR)
  • Enjoy a lively Celebration dinner at an Istanbul restaurant (CD)
  • 7 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 4 three-course table d'hôte 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 fabulous Topkapi Palace. Leaern how to haggle in the Grand Bazaar; the technique, the pitfalls and how much to pay! Visit the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia.
  • Cumalikizik: Visit this charming Village.
  • Bursa: Visit the Green Mosque and Mausoleum complex, the Grand Mosque, bazaar and silk market.
  • Sardis: Visit the Synagogue, Roman Gymnasium and the Temple of Artemis.
  • Pamukkale: Visit the ruins of Hierapolis and the white terraces.
  • 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 Asklepion.
  • Troy: Visit the legendary city.
  • Gallipoli: Visit Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery.

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Day
1
Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey - a land rich in archeological sites, historic monuments, warm-hearted people and an enormous variety of spectacular scenery. On arrival at Istanbul Airport, you are met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, join your Tour Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Reception and light informal meal.
Stay: Barcelo Eresin Topkapi (RW)
Day
2
Istanbul - Bursa
This morning take a short ferry trip and drive to the charming Cumalikizik Village with its traditional wooden houses, and narrow cobblestone streets. Continue to Bursa for your overnight stay. There is time this afternoon to visit the glorious Green Mosque and Mausoleum complex, the Grand Mosque, the Bazaar and colourful Silk Market. Tonight you might like to experience a Turkish bath at your hotel.
Stay: Kervansaray Thermal (BB/D)
Day
3
Bursa - Pamukkale
Drive to Sardis, where you visit the Synagogue, Roman Gymnasium and the Temple of Artemis. Now continue to Pamukkale, famous for its `Cotton Castle', a dazzling chalk-white array of fantastically shaped limestone terraces. Visit the ruins of ancient Hierapolis and the fairyland terraces and see the glistening pools and cascades in scallop-shell basins.
Stay: Pam Thermal (BB/D)
Day
4
Pamukkale - Izmir
Journey to the ruined city of Ephesus. View the marvellous facade of the Library of Celsus, walk the Arcadian Way and see the amazing Amphitheatre. Also visit the House of the Virgin Mary. At the Archeological Museum in nearby Selçuk you can marvel at many of the artefacts excavated from Ephesus. After visiting a Turkish carpet centre it's on to the pretty port city of Izmir.
Stay: Swissôtel Grand Efes/Hilton (BB/D)
Day
5
Izmir - Canakkale
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 legendary city of Troy; visit the ruins and see an enormous reconstruction of the fabled Wooden Horse. Stay tonight in the seaport of Çanakkale, on the southern side of the Dardanelles at their narrowest point.
Stay: Kolin (BB/D)
Day
6
Canakkale - Istanbul
This morning cross the Dardanelles Straits and drive to the Gallipoli Peninsula to visit Anzac Cove and the emotive Lone Pine Cemetery. Then return to Istanbul. Upon arrival, embark on a superb highlight cruise along the Bosphorus Waterway.
Stay: Barcelo Eresin Topkapi (BB)
Day
7
Istanbul Sightseeing
Admire the Blue Mosque with its beautiful tiles and the Hippodrome where Roman chariot races were held. Visit St Sophia, at one time a cathedral and a mosque, and now a magnificent museum. Move on to Topkapi Palace where some of the world's biggest emeralds and diamonds are on display. Finish your tour among the 4,000 shops, cafes and tea houses of the Grand Bazaar. Don't worry, your guide will give you a full explanation of the time-honoured ritual of bargaining! Tonight join in farewell Celebration Dinner at a lively restaurant. (BB/HD)
Day
8
Istanbul
This morning, your tour comes to an end with a transfer to the airport. (BB)
Insight Vacations Brochure Click on the icon if you would like to view an electronic version of the brochure online.

8 Day Turkish Delights Reviews

Tour reviews from past clients of Global Journeys. 1 Reviews, Average Rating 5.0 of 5.
We were absolutely delighted with this tour. The quality of the accommodation was excellent as were the included tours and all the meals. The bus was spacious, clean and very comfortable. The tour guide, Rashid Ergner, was exceptional. He had an amazing knowledge of all aspects of Turkey and even though Georgia was the only child on the tour she enjoyed this tour as much as us. We would highly recommend this Insight tour and would consider Insight again if we choose to tour again.
Alana, Rob & Georgia Buick (Australia)
Tour Date 29/09/2011

Tour Prices

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

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 Season Sale! Save up to $80 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
17 May 2012 24 May 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
24 May 2012 31 May 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
31 May 2012 07 Jun 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
07 Jun 2012 14 Jun 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
14 Jun 2012 21 Jun 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
21 Jun 2012 28 Jun 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
28 Jun 2012 05 Jul 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
05 Jul 2012 12 Jul 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
12 Jul 2012 19 Jul 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
19 Jul 2012 26 Jul 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
26 Jul 2012 02 Aug 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
02 Aug 2012 09 Aug 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
09 Aug 2012 16 Aug 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
16 Aug 2012 23 Aug 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
23 Aug 2012 30 Aug 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
30 Aug 2012 06 Sep 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
06 Sep 2012 13 Sep 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
13 Sep 2012 20 Sep 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
20 Sep 2012 27 Sep 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
27 Sep 2012 04 Oct 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
04 Oct 2012 11 Oct 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
11 Oct 2012 18 Oct 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235
18 Oct 2012 25 Oct 2012 AU $1,275 AU $1,755 Save $40 AU $1,235

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:

Book your tour and flights together to SAVE!
  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: Regional

These in-depth tours concentrate on towns, cities or scenic areas in a specific region or country. The majority of overnight stays are two nights or more, and are leisurely paced, often with shorter travelling time between exciting destinations.


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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