Treasures of Turkey

This itinerary is the very best of Turkey, a fascinating journey to the most beautiful and historic areas.  Marvel at the awesome scenery of Cappadocia, the epic monuments of Ephesus, Pergamum and Troy, see the vivid colours of exotic Istanbul, spectacular coastlines and sandy beaches.

We take in Turkey’s stunning scenery, unique history and colourful culture.  Linking Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is a living museum with over 10,000 years of history. 

Suspended between the new and old, Turkey retains a balance of both east and west. It is three times the size of Great Britain and has a unique cultural heritage.  Modern city boutiques and exotic bazaars clamour for customers – you can still haggle for bargains from leather to jewellery!  The weekly tolling of church bells interrupts the daily calls of the muezzin.  Roman ruins and the beginnings of Christianity compete for attention with the history of the Ottoman Empire.

We intend to help you sample the best of the Turkish delights! Istanbul, with one part in Europe and the other in Oriental Asia, is a fascinating city.  It has frenzied market places, imperial residences and minarets.  We take time to pay tribute to the many who lost their lives in Gallipoli.  We go on to explore the wonderful ancient cities of Troy, hot springs of Pamukkale, and let your head spin while watching the Whirling Dervishes’.  Cappadocia in Central Turkey offers a magical lunar landscape of eroded volcanic rock cones and fairy chimneys, remarkable subterranean cities and rock-hewn houses that merge harmoniously with the ochre-coloured landscape. 

There is always a warm welcome fro the friendly Turkish people. September is a wonderful time to travel through this amazing country.

 

Highlights

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar

Gallipoli: Tour of Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuck Bair, trenches and tunnels

Ephesus:  Reputedly, the best preserved classical Roman city in the world

Pamukkale: Famous Travertine Terraces - Spectacular white cliffs formed by warm mineral water

Whirling Dervishes

 Dalyan: Boat trip to see the Lycian

Temples and tombs and Loggerhead

Turtles

Mediterranean Coast: Cruise the islands on a typical Turkish boat

Cirali – Olympos: The beauties of the Meditation.

Cappadocia: UNESCO Site - Underground cities and amazing rock formations

Departure dates  1st -24th September 2023

About our Tours.

 

Join Third Age Tours for fully escorted small group tours of New Zealand and overseas. Meet new people and enjoy the experience while we take care of all the arrangements and look after you.

Our all-inclusive price includes the following per person:

  • Tour starts and ends in Christchurch.

  • Comfortable mini-bus pick-up between 8.30am and 8.45am at designated area.

  • Fully escorted tour.

  • All breakfasts (continental) and evening meals as indicated.

  • Accommodation on a twin share basis ex Christchurch.