Gallipoli to the Mediterranean with Anzac Day Remembrance Tour

Itinerary

Day 1

Fly Overnight to İstanbul

Your holiday begins as you fly from Australia to your destination.

Day 2

İstanbul: Hotel Stay

Arriving in İstanbul, your thrilling adventure begins with a three-night hotel stay. After transferring from the airport to your hotel, enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 3

İstanbul: Hotel Stay

İstanbul promises a living mosaic of cultures, evident in its diverse neighbourhoods and culinary delights. From rich cultural heritage, architectural marvels and vibrant markets, you’ll experience a captivating fusion of old-world charm and contemporary allure.

Day 4

İstanbul: Tour & Hotel Stay

Today, your guide will whisk you on a fascinating city tour. Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, wander Hippodrome Square, enjoy a photo stop at the magnificent Hagia Sophia, and lose yourself in the colourful Grand Bazaar.

Day 5

Çanakkale: Tour & Hotel Stay

Travel to Canakkale via Gallipoli, visiting the Lone Pine Memorial with views of the 1915 front line and the historic Anzac Cove landing site. Enjoy a photo stop at the Trojan Horse before you arrive at your hotel for check-in.

Day 6

Çanakkale: Tour & Hotel Stay

Nestled on the Dardanelles Strait, Canakkale promises to be one of the highlights of your trip. Here, you’ll travel high into the skies on a cable car to reach the Acropolis of Pergamon and uncover the history of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 7

Çanakkale: Tour & Hotel Stay

Join an Anzac Day Dawn Service* and pay your respects to the thousands of Australians and New Zealanders who gave their lives on the battlefields of Gallipoli. Watch as the sun rises over Anzac Cove and the strains of Last Post fill the air.

Day 8

Kuşadası: Hotel Stay

Relax on the beaches of Kuşadası or opt for an optional tour of the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Dine on delicious Mediterranean cuisine as you admire the panoramic vistas of the beckoning horizon and surrounding coastline.

Day 9

Pamukkale: Tour & Hotel Stay

Enjoy a tour of Ephesus, one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities, before transferring to Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish. Relax during an afternoon at leisure ahead of tomorrow’s tour of the region’s stunning white terraces.

Day 10

Pamukkale: Tour & Konya Hotel Stay

Visit the UNESCO Ancient City of Hierapolis to explore “Cotton Castle”, a geological marvel where thermal springs create a terrace of white baths. Next, you’ll transfer to Konya for a one-night stay.

Day 11

Cappadocia: Tour & Hotel Stay

Today, you’ll explore the Mevlana Museum, the final resting place of Rumi, a renowned Sufi mystic, as you travel towards Cappadocia. En route, you’ll visit Sultan Han Caravanserai, a well-preserved example of Seljuk architecture.

Day 12

Cappadocia: Tour & Hotel Stay

Join an optional early morning tour to witness Cappadocia’s iconic sunrise punctuated with vibrant hot air balloons. Explore the Three Beauties, Pigeon Valley, Uçhisar Valley and Paşabağ Valley before encountering the Avanos Valley’s Red River, Türkiye’s longest river.

Day 13

Ankara: Hotel Stay

Following a photo stop at Tuz Gölü, Türkiye’s second-largest lake, known for its stunning salt flats, you’ll arrive in Ankara, Türkiye’s cosmopolitan capital, for a two-night hotel stay.

Day 14

Athens: Hotel Stay

Soaring mountains, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, unspoilt green spaces and byzantine churches – Athens is a beguiling destination of beauty, mythology and history. The iconic Acropolis gazes out on urban sprawl from the heart of the city.

Day 15

Piraeus: Embark Ship

Step on board Holland America’s Oosterdam for a remarkable voyage to cherish. With its elegant design and sophisticated amenities, Oosterdam provides a perfect blend of comfort and style.

Day 16

Kuşadası

Kuşadası, Türkiye, captivates with its Aegean allure. From the historic Ephesus ruins to pristine beaches and a vibrant bazaar, it offers a delightful fusion of history, culture, and relaxation.

Day 17

Dardanelles Strait: Scenic Cruising

As you sail along this legendary waterway connecting the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara, you’ll be captivated by the picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks that grace its shores.

Days 18 - 19

İstanbul: Overnight in Port

Where East and West converge. Immerse in rich history, savor exotic cuisine, and feel the heartbeat of diverse cultures. Let this enchanting city awaken your senses and expand your horizons.

Day 20

Mykonos

Experience the enchantment of Mykonos, Greece – a vibrant island transformed by tourism. Explore its whitewashed streets, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife. Let Mykonos captivate your senses and leave you spellbound by its irresistible allure.

Day 21

Souda

Discover the maritime charm of Souda, Crete. With its tranquil bay, historic fortresses, and Mediterranean ambiance, it’s a place that invites you to explore the island’s rich history and savor the beauty of coastal Greece.

Day 22

Katakolon

Embark on a voyage to Katakolon, Greece’s coastal gem. Immerse yourself in its rich history, stroll along picturesque streets, and indulge in delectable cuisine. Let Katakolon awaken your passion for exploration and cultural immersion.

Day 23

Sarandë

Sarandë is a picturesque town located on the Albanian Riviera, known for its stunning coastal scenery and vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Situated just across the sea from the Greek island of Corfu, Sarandë boasts beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a charming promenade.

Day 24

Dubrovnik

Croatia’s “Pearl of the Adriatic”, enchants with medieval charm and coastal beauty. Historic city walls, cobblestone streets, and stunning views make it a captivating blend of history and scenery.

Day 25

Relax At Sea

Days 26 - 27

Venice: Disembark & Mestre Hotel Stay

Disembarking in Venice, you’ll transfer to your hotel in Mestre, across the lagoon from many of the city’s prime historic attractions. Explore architectural wonders including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the iconic Rialto Bridge.

Days 28 - 29

Venice: Fly Home

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.