Grand Sultan Tour of Turkey Full Itinerary
16-DAY GRAND SULTAN TOUR
This tour starts and finishes in Istanbul, Turkey.
(Current as at 15 March 2014)
Day 1: Arrival and in Istanbul
Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to our hotel in the heart of the old city. The rest of the day is free. You may go on an orientation walk, relax in nearby cafes or just rest in your charming hotel. Your Tour Leader will be at hand to give you tips about things to do and places to see. In the evening, we will get together to welcome all our fellow travellers over a complimentary drink before dinner at the hotel restaurant. (D)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
NOTE: Day 1 is for ‘arrival’ and ‘rest’. Apart from a get-to-know meeting and group dinner in the evening, there are no planned activities for this day. So, unless your flight schedule makes it necessary, you don’t need to arrive any earlier. As well, your airport-to-hotel transfer is included if you arrive on Day 1 and you save on pre-tour accommodation.
Day 2: In Istanbul
This morning we enjoy our first traditional Turkish breakfast consisting of Turkish bread, feta cheese, olives, delicious local honey, eggs, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, tea, coffee, as well as some cooked specialties After breakfast your tour leader will hold a briefing to talk about the tour, provide useful tips and answer questions.
We start our sightseeing at the Hippodrome where chariot races took place in Roman times. These days the site is adorned with historical monuments including the impressive Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent’s Column and the German Fountain. We then visit the world renowned Blue Mosque which, with its unequalled blue tiles and six minarets, is a potent symbol of Ottoman Istanbul.
We then walk down to ‘Eminonu’ district to visit the fascinating Spice Bazaar and the surrounding shopping streets before lunch at a traditional restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The rest of the day is free. After lunch (not included), we enjoy a leisurely cruise by private motorboat along the Bosphorus and admire the many historic citadels, Ottoman palaces, imperial mosques and ‘yalis’ (water front mansions of the rich and famous) that adorn its shores. We visit the 15th Century Rumeli Fortress on the way back before returning to our hotel by coach.
In the evening, we have special welcome dinner and Turkish show. (B/D)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
Day 3: In Istanbul
This morning we visit the splendid Topkapi Palace from where the Ottoman Sultans ruled the empire for over 400 years.
The visit takes about four hours with a half hour break about half way through. At the Topkapi Palace, we will see all the main attractions, including the Harem Quarters (the Sultan’s private apartments), the Treasury, the Council Chambers, various pavilions, the palace kitchens and more. Some of the most notable exhibits are the diamond and ruby encrusted ‘Topkapi Dagger’ which was the subject of the 1960’s film ‘Topkapi’ starring Peter Ustinov; the so-called ‘Spooner’s Diamond’, a large 64 carat diamond and the exquisite 15th Century Iznik tiles on the Harem walls.
While in the Topkapi Palace grounds, we will also admire the magnificent views of the Golden Horn Bay that separates the so called ‘Old’ and ‘New’ Istanbul and the Bosphorus Channel that separates the continents of Europe and Asia.
The rest of the day and evening are free. (B)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
Day 4: Istanbul – Çanakkale
Today we depart early to the battlefields of Gallipoli, travelling along the shores of the Sea of Marmara. Gallipoli (or Gelibolu in Turkish) is a peninsula now declared a National Historical Park to honour the Allied and Turkish soldiers who fought and died here in 1915. We see all the major battlefields of this beautiful and moving site, including Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, The Nek, Chunuk Bair. We also see the site where ANZAC Day services take place, some WW1 trenches and one or more Turkish memorials. We cross the Dardanelles straits in late afternoon and head to our hotel in Çanakkale. (B/L/D)
Overnight in a hotel on the shores of Dardanelles.
Day 5: Çanakkale - Kuşadasi
The coastline of the Aegean Sea is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites. Today our first stop is at the legendary city of Troy, the site of nine ancient cities where Greek and Trojan heroes fought the “Trojan War” for the honour of the beautiful Helen. We continue to the ancient Hellenistic city of Pergamum where we have lunch before a visit to Asklepion, the famous centre of learning and medicine in the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans. We arrive at the seaside resort town of Kuşadasi in late afternoon. Dinner is at the hotel. (B/L/D)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 6: In Kuşadasi
Today we have an extensive tour of nearby Ephesus, widely regarded as the best-preserved Roman city in the Eastern Mediterranean. We also visit Selçuk Museum where most of the artefacts from Ephesus are housed and the ‘Greek’ village of Şirince where we have lunch.
We return to our hotel later in afternoon and the rest of the day is free. Tonight dinner is not included. So you will have the opportunity to check out the culinary delights on offer in this visitor friendly town. Your tour leader will be happy to recommend a good restaurant if needed. (B/L)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 7: Kusadasi – Buldan - Pamukkale
After breakfast, we head inland to visit the famous 'cotton castles' of Pamukkale. On the way, we call at the thriving weaving centre of Buldan where exquisite items of cloth are made entirely from natural fibres such as silk, wool and mohair.
We arrive in Pamukkale in the early afternoon to see the fascinating “cotton castles” (lime deposits) and the ancient city of Hierapolis nearby. Here we will have the opportunity to walk along the travertines and have a closer look at this marvel of nature. There will be time to visit to the ancient theatre nearby or swim in the ‘Antique Pool’ (extra charge applies). We then check into our hotel where you can relax in the hotel pool or enjoy the spectacular sunset. Dinner is at the hotel restaurant. (B/D).
Overnight in comfortable 4 or 5 star hotel - Pamukkale.
Day 8: Pamukkale – Fethiye - Kas
This morning we cross the majestic Taurus Mountains to the Mediterranean town of Fethiye, arriving there in time for lunch. In the afternoon, we drive to the abandoned Greek village of Kayaköy that inspired the best selling novel ‘Birds Without Wings’ by Louis de Berniere. We then visit the breath taking Saklikent Gorge before driving on, via spectacular bays and fishing towns, to the charming seaside town of Kaş. Most visitors fall in love with this town, so we suggest you make the most of our two night visit there. Dinner is at a local restaurant. (B/D).
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kaş
Day 9: In Kas
Today is to spend as you like and to enjoy the many things this delightful town has on offer. You may go on an optional day trip to the nearby Greek Island of Kastellorizon which is only about 5km from the Turkish mainland. We would leave Kas by boat mid morning and return late afternoon with lunch on the island. Alternatively, you may relax by the poolside; go for a swim in the sea or just brows around the classy shops in town. In the evening you may enjoy the culinary delights this coastal town has to offer, including fresh seafood, at one of the many exquisite local restaurants. (B)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kaş
Day 10: Kaş - Antalya
This morning, we drive the short distance to the fishing village of Uçagiz where we embark on a spectacular boat cruise to explore the wonderful island studded bay and the sunken city of Kekova, the nearby Simena village and its castle and to swim in some of the secluded bays. We have lunch at a seaside restaurant in Simena before returning to the Uçagiz village.
In the afternoon, we visit Lycian Tombs and the ancient theatre in Myra, St Nicholas’s (Santa Clause) home town in ancient times before we travel along the coastal road to the cliff top city of Antalya. With the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean on one side and the densely forested Taurus Mountains on the other, the drive is a real delight. Dinner is at the hotel restaurant or a traditional local restaurant. (B/L/D).
Overnight in a restored boutique style hotel in the old city in Antalya.
Day 11: In Antalya
Today we have a leisurely morning to explore the ancient city of Perge and the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatre at Aspendos. We then visit the spectacular Düden waterfalls where we have lunch before returning to Antalya. The rest of the day is free to do as you please. You may visit the archaeological museum housing exquisite artefacts from Perge and other places, explore the meandering streets and shops of the old city or just relax and enjoy the views and traditional restaurants in this vibrant and scenic city. (B/L)
Overnight in the old city in Antalya.
Day 12: Antalya – Konya - Cappadocia.
This morning, we leave the Mediterranean coast early and cross the soaring Taurus Mountains. We arrive in Konya, home of the Whirling Dervishes, where we have lunch. After lunch we visit the Mevlana Museum that is a shrine to the famous Turkish philosopher of the same name, before departing for Cappadocia, a region that is blessed with an eerie lunar landscape equal to none on earth. To get there we travel along the legendary 'Silk Road' dating from the Middle Ages. On the way, we visit the famous Sultanhani Caravanserai, one of the many “Luxury Motels of the 13th Century” along the ancient Silk Road. Dinner is at the hotel restaurant or a traditional local restaurant. (B/L/D).
Overnight in a special “Cave House” hotel
Day 13: In Cappadocia
Two full days to explore this fascinating troglodyte landscape with its amazing rock formations, cave churches and rock carved village homes. On the first day, we visit Uçhisar castle and Goreme Open Air Museum with frescoed churches. In the afternoon, we visit a carpet centre for a demonstration of traditional carpet making and to learn about the centuries old art of hand-made carpets. In the evening we have a special dinner at a traditional local restaurant.
Well, no trip to Cappadocia is complete without a spectacular hot air balloon flight over the deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of this fairyland. So, you will have the opportunity to do just that early this morning. This is an optional extra. We recommend the deluxe flight which is dearer but well worth the extra. (B/D)
Overnight in a special “Cave House” hotel
Day 14: In Cappadocia
Today’s program includes visits to Kaymakli underground city dating back to the 6th Century, where Christians took refuge from the advancing Persians and Arabs, the fairy chimneys of Pasabag, Devrent Valley and other notable sites of this fairy landscape.
After lunch, we visit a traditional ceramics workshop for a demonstration of hand-painted Iznik tiles as well as porcelain and clay pottery. Our organised activities finish by mid afternoon and the rest of the day and evening are free.
Today you will be at a convenient place at a convenient time to indulge in a ‘Turkish Bath’ if you wish to do so. (B/L)
Overnight in a special “Cave House” hotel
Day 15: Cappadocia –Istanbul
This morning we depart early for Kayseri Airport for our midmorning flight to Istanbul. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel, and after check-in and some rest, we walk the short distance to the amazing 6th Century Underground Cistern that served as the main water reservoir during the Byzantine era. We then visit the architectural marvel of St Sophia Museum, an ancient basilica with its immense dome rising 56.4 metres above the ground. Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th Century as a potent symbol of the Eastern Roman Empire, St Sophia never ceases to amaze visitors. Even after several visits, it is easy to find bewildering new features.
The rest of the day is free. In the evening, we have a special farewell dinner. (B/D).
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
Day 16: In Istanbul/Departure
Well all good things come to an end and our tour ends after breakfast. Those with late departures can spend the day in Istanbul as they please but be ready to transfer to the airport at the appointed time.
Those with departures after today will need to make arrangements for post-tour accommodation and departure transfers. We can assist with such arrangements if required. Those participating in any “Add-on Packages” such as our Best of the Black Sea tour will be advised of travel arrangements. (B)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
16-DAY GRAND SULTAN TOUR
(This tour starts and finishes in Istanbul, Turkey.)
Tour price includes:
• Accommodation in special category boutique style establishments and four or five-star hotels.
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) including a special ‘Welcome’ dinner on Day 2 and a ‘Farewell’ dinner on Day 15.
• One domestic airfare from Cappadocia to Istanbul on Day 15.
• Arrival transfers on Day 1 and departure transfers on Day 16. (See Note 4)
• Modern air-conditioned coach with plenty spare seats. (See Note 5)
• Two half day cruises by private motor boat (Bosphorus in Istanbul and Kekova Bay in the Mediterranean Sea).
• All entrance fees, all tipping (including the guide and the driver) and other charges
• Services of bilingual Turkish born Australian tour leader who is with the group 24/7.
• Services of professional, English speaking tour guide
• Drinking water on the coach and with meals.
Tour price does NOT include:
• International airfares (See Note 6).
• Departure taxes, levies and other charges.
• Passport and visa charges.
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, minibar, phone calls, etc.
• Beverages at meal times, except water.
IMPORTANT NOTES
1) Deposit amount is 10% of the price marked ( # ) and is non-refundable.
2) Prices are per person twin share and include one domestic flight in Turkey.
3) Tour prices which are based on current and expected future exchange rates are subject to change. Once full payment has been received, the price will not be varied.
4) Tour details including itinerary, dates and prices may change without notice until paid in full.
5) Stipulated group size for this tour is 10 to 24. If the group size is 6 to 9, then the tour may still operate but the tour programme may be revised and/or a surcharge may be payable. The tour will not normally operate with fewer than 6 people.
6) Included transfers are from/to Ataturk International Airport only Transfers from/to other airports and transfers on dates other than Days 1 and 16 are NOT included.
7) A full size coach is used for groups of 14 or more travellers. A midibus (20-30 seater) or a minibus (11-16 seater) may be used if the group size is 13 or less.
8) Shorter “Add-on” tours and other travel packages are available within Turkey, to Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Silk Road (Central Asia) and to other countries in the region.
9) We can make all your travel arrangements through our travel agent partner in Sydney, including flights at competitive rates, travel insurance, third party tours, etc.
10) This itinerary which is current as at 15 March 2014 is subject to change without notice.
This tour starts and finishes in Istanbul, Turkey.
(Current as at 15 March 2014)
Day 1: Arrival and in Istanbul
Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to our hotel in the heart of the old city. The rest of the day is free. You may go on an orientation walk, relax in nearby cafes or just rest in your charming hotel. Your Tour Leader will be at hand to give you tips about things to do and places to see. In the evening, we will get together to welcome all our fellow travellers over a complimentary drink before dinner at the hotel restaurant. (D)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
NOTE: Day 1 is for ‘arrival’ and ‘rest’. Apart from a get-to-know meeting and group dinner in the evening, there are no planned activities for this day. So, unless your flight schedule makes it necessary, you don’t need to arrive any earlier. As well, your airport-to-hotel transfer is included if you arrive on Day 1 and you save on pre-tour accommodation.
Day 2: In Istanbul
This morning we enjoy our first traditional Turkish breakfast consisting of Turkish bread, feta cheese, olives, delicious local honey, eggs, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, tea, coffee, as well as some cooked specialties After breakfast your tour leader will hold a briefing to talk about the tour, provide useful tips and answer questions.
We start our sightseeing at the Hippodrome where chariot races took place in Roman times. These days the site is adorned with historical monuments including the impressive Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent’s Column and the German Fountain. We then visit the world renowned Blue Mosque which, with its unequalled blue tiles and six minarets, is a potent symbol of Ottoman Istanbul.
We then walk down to ‘Eminonu’ district to visit the fascinating Spice Bazaar and the surrounding shopping streets before lunch at a traditional restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. The rest of the day is free. After lunch (not included), we enjoy a leisurely cruise by private motorboat along the Bosphorus and admire the many historic citadels, Ottoman palaces, imperial mosques and ‘yalis’ (water front mansions of the rich and famous) that adorn its shores. We visit the 15th Century Rumeli Fortress on the way back before returning to our hotel by coach.
In the evening, we have special welcome dinner and Turkish show. (B/D)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
Day 3: In Istanbul
This morning we visit the splendid Topkapi Palace from where the Ottoman Sultans ruled the empire for over 400 years.
The visit takes about four hours with a half hour break about half way through. At the Topkapi Palace, we will see all the main attractions, including the Harem Quarters (the Sultan’s private apartments), the Treasury, the Council Chambers, various pavilions, the palace kitchens and more. Some of the most notable exhibits are the diamond and ruby encrusted ‘Topkapi Dagger’ which was the subject of the 1960’s film ‘Topkapi’ starring Peter Ustinov; the so-called ‘Spooner’s Diamond’, a large 64 carat diamond and the exquisite 15th Century Iznik tiles on the Harem walls.
While in the Topkapi Palace grounds, we will also admire the magnificent views of the Golden Horn Bay that separates the so called ‘Old’ and ‘New’ Istanbul and the Bosphorus Channel that separates the continents of Europe and Asia.
The rest of the day and evening are free. (B)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
Day 4: Istanbul – Çanakkale
Today we depart early to the battlefields of Gallipoli, travelling along the shores of the Sea of Marmara. Gallipoli (or Gelibolu in Turkish) is a peninsula now declared a National Historical Park to honour the Allied and Turkish soldiers who fought and died here in 1915. We see all the major battlefields of this beautiful and moving site, including Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, The Nek, Chunuk Bair. We also see the site where ANZAC Day services take place, some WW1 trenches and one or more Turkish memorials. We cross the Dardanelles straits in late afternoon and head to our hotel in Çanakkale. (B/L/D)
Overnight in a hotel on the shores of Dardanelles.
Day 5: Çanakkale - Kuşadasi
The coastline of the Aegean Sea is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites. Today our first stop is at the legendary city of Troy, the site of nine ancient cities where Greek and Trojan heroes fought the “Trojan War” for the honour of the beautiful Helen. We continue to the ancient Hellenistic city of Pergamum where we have lunch before a visit to Asklepion, the famous centre of learning and medicine in the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans. We arrive at the seaside resort town of Kuşadasi in late afternoon. Dinner is at the hotel. (B/L/D)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 6: In Kuşadasi
Today we have an extensive tour of nearby Ephesus, widely regarded as the best-preserved Roman city in the Eastern Mediterranean. We also visit Selçuk Museum where most of the artefacts from Ephesus are housed and the ‘Greek’ village of Şirince where we have lunch.
We return to our hotel later in afternoon and the rest of the day is free. Tonight dinner is not included. So you will have the opportunity to check out the culinary delights on offer in this visitor friendly town. Your tour leader will be happy to recommend a good restaurant if needed. (B/L)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 7: Kusadasi – Buldan - Pamukkale
After breakfast, we head inland to visit the famous 'cotton castles' of Pamukkale. On the way, we call at the thriving weaving centre of Buldan where exquisite items of cloth are made entirely from natural fibres such as silk, wool and mohair.
We arrive in Pamukkale in the early afternoon to see the fascinating “cotton castles” (lime deposits) and the ancient city of Hierapolis nearby. Here we will have the opportunity to walk along the travertines and have a closer look at this marvel of nature. There will be time to visit to the ancient theatre nearby or swim in the ‘Antique Pool’ (extra charge applies). We then check into our hotel where you can relax in the hotel pool or enjoy the spectacular sunset. Dinner is at the hotel restaurant. (B/D).
Overnight in comfortable 4 or 5 star hotel - Pamukkale.
Day 8: Pamukkale – Fethiye - Kas
This morning we cross the majestic Taurus Mountains to the Mediterranean town of Fethiye, arriving there in time for lunch. In the afternoon, we drive to the abandoned Greek village of Kayaköy that inspired the best selling novel ‘Birds Without Wings’ by Louis de Berniere. We then visit the breath taking Saklikent Gorge before driving on, via spectacular bays and fishing towns, to the charming seaside town of Kaş. Most visitors fall in love with this town, so we suggest you make the most of our two night visit there. Dinner is at a local restaurant. (B/D).
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kaş
Day 9: In Kas
Today is to spend as you like and to enjoy the many things this delightful town has on offer. You may go on an optional day trip to the nearby Greek Island of Kastellorizon which is only about 5km from the Turkish mainland. We would leave Kas by boat mid morning and return late afternoon with lunch on the island. Alternatively, you may relax by the poolside; go for a swim in the sea or just brows around the classy shops in town. In the evening you may enjoy the culinary delights this coastal town has to offer, including fresh seafood, at one of the many exquisite local restaurants. (B)
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Kaş
Day 10: Kaş - Antalya
This morning, we drive the short distance to the fishing village of Uçagiz where we embark on a spectacular boat cruise to explore the wonderful island studded bay and the sunken city of Kekova, the nearby Simena village and its castle and to swim in some of the secluded bays. We have lunch at a seaside restaurant in Simena before returning to the Uçagiz village.
In the afternoon, we visit Lycian Tombs and the ancient theatre in Myra, St Nicholas’s (Santa Clause) home town in ancient times before we travel along the coastal road to the cliff top city of Antalya. With the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean on one side and the densely forested Taurus Mountains on the other, the drive is a real delight. Dinner is at the hotel restaurant or a traditional local restaurant. (B/L/D).
Overnight in a restored boutique style hotel in the old city in Antalya.
Day 11: In Antalya
Today we have a leisurely morning to explore the ancient city of Perge and the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatre at Aspendos. We then visit the spectacular Düden waterfalls where we have lunch before returning to Antalya. The rest of the day is free to do as you please. You may visit the archaeological museum housing exquisite artefacts from Perge and other places, explore the meandering streets and shops of the old city or just relax and enjoy the views and traditional restaurants in this vibrant and scenic city. (B/L)
Overnight in the old city in Antalya.
Day 12: Antalya – Konya - Cappadocia.
This morning, we leave the Mediterranean coast early and cross the soaring Taurus Mountains. We arrive in Konya, home of the Whirling Dervishes, where we have lunch. After lunch we visit the Mevlana Museum that is a shrine to the famous Turkish philosopher of the same name, before departing for Cappadocia, a region that is blessed with an eerie lunar landscape equal to none on earth. To get there we travel along the legendary 'Silk Road' dating from the Middle Ages. On the way, we visit the famous Sultanhani Caravanserai, one of the many “Luxury Motels of the 13th Century” along the ancient Silk Road. Dinner is at the hotel restaurant or a traditional local restaurant. (B/L/D).
Overnight in a special “Cave House” hotel
Day 13: In Cappadocia
Two full days to explore this fascinating troglodyte landscape with its amazing rock formations, cave churches and rock carved village homes. On the first day, we visit Uçhisar castle and Goreme Open Air Museum with frescoed churches. In the afternoon, we visit a carpet centre for a demonstration of traditional carpet making and to learn about the centuries old art of hand-made carpets. In the evening we have a special dinner at a traditional local restaurant.
Well, no trip to Cappadocia is complete without a spectacular hot air balloon flight over the deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of this fairyland. So, you will have the opportunity to do just that early this morning. This is an optional extra. We recommend the deluxe flight which is dearer but well worth the extra. (B/D)
Overnight in a special “Cave House” hotel
Day 14: In Cappadocia
Today’s program includes visits to Kaymakli underground city dating back to the 6th Century, where Christians took refuge from the advancing Persians and Arabs, the fairy chimneys of Pasabag, Devrent Valley and other notable sites of this fairy landscape.
After lunch, we visit a traditional ceramics workshop for a demonstration of hand-painted Iznik tiles as well as porcelain and clay pottery. Our organised activities finish by mid afternoon and the rest of the day and evening are free.
Today you will be at a convenient place at a convenient time to indulge in a ‘Turkish Bath’ if you wish to do so. (B/L)
Overnight in a special “Cave House” hotel
Day 15: Cappadocia –Istanbul
This morning we depart early for Kayseri Airport for our midmorning flight to Istanbul. On arrival, we transfer to our hotel, and after check-in and some rest, we walk the short distance to the amazing 6th Century Underground Cistern that served as the main water reservoir during the Byzantine era. We then visit the architectural marvel of St Sophia Museum, an ancient basilica with its immense dome rising 56.4 metres above the ground. Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th Century as a potent symbol of the Eastern Roman Empire, St Sophia never ceases to amaze visitors. Even after several visits, it is easy to find bewildering new features.
The rest of the day is free. In the evening, we have a special farewell dinner. (B/D).
Overnight in a comfortable hotel in the old city.
Day 16: In Istanbul/Departure
Well all good things come to an end and our tour ends after breakfast. Those with late departures can spend the day in Istanbul as they please but be ready to transfer to the airport at the appointed time.
Those with departures after today will need to make arrangements for post-tour accommodation and departure transfers. We can assist with such arrangements if required. Those participating in any “Add-on Packages” such as our Best of the Black Sea tour will be advised of travel arrangements. (B)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
16-DAY GRAND SULTAN TOUR
(This tour starts and finishes in Istanbul, Turkey.)
| 2014 | 2015 | |
| Tour Code: | GS140502 (May) GS140905 (Sept) | GS140503 (May) GS140906 (Sept) |
| Tour Dates: |
Fri 02 to Sat 17 May (CLOSED) Fri 05 to Sat 20 September (BOOK NOW) |
Fri 03 to Sat 18 May (BOOK NOW) Fri 06 to Sat 21 September (BOOK NOW) |
| Tour Prices (AUD): (See Notes 1,2 and 3) |
$4,550 for 21 – 24 persons $4,700 # for 15 – 20 persons $4,850 for 10 – 14 persons. Single supplement is $850 |
$4,550 for 21 – 24 persons $4,700 # for 15 – 20 persons $4,850 for 10 – 14 persons. Single supplement is $945 |
| Tour duration: |
16 days / 15 nights |
|
| Group Size: |
Minimum 10 Maximum 24 |
|
Tour price includes:
• Accommodation in special category boutique style establishments and four or five-star hotels.
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) including a special ‘Welcome’ dinner on Day 2 and a ‘Farewell’ dinner on Day 15.
• One domestic airfare from Cappadocia to Istanbul on Day 15.
• Arrival transfers on Day 1 and departure transfers on Day 16. (See Note 4)
• Modern air-conditioned coach with plenty spare seats. (See Note 5)
• Two half day cruises by private motor boat (Bosphorus in Istanbul and Kekova Bay in the Mediterranean Sea).
• All entrance fees, all tipping (including the guide and the driver) and other charges
• Services of bilingual Turkish born Australian tour leader who is with the group 24/7.
• Services of professional, English speaking tour guide
• Drinking water on the coach and with meals.
Tour price does NOT include:
• International airfares (See Note 6).
• Departure taxes, levies and other charges.
• Passport and visa charges.
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, minibar, phone calls, etc.
• Beverages at meal times, except water.
IMPORTANT NOTES
1) Deposit amount is 10% of the price marked ( # ) and is non-refundable.
2) Prices are per person twin share and include one domestic flight in Turkey.
3) Tour prices which are based on current and expected future exchange rates are subject to change. Once full payment has been received, the price will not be varied.
4) Tour details including itinerary, dates and prices may change without notice until paid in full.
5) Stipulated group size for this tour is 10 to 24. If the group size is 6 to 9, then the tour may still operate but the tour programme may be revised and/or a surcharge may be payable. The tour will not normally operate with fewer than 6 people.
6) Included transfers are from/to Ataturk International Airport only Transfers from/to other airports and transfers on dates other than Days 1 and 16 are NOT included.
7) A full size coach is used for groups of 14 or more travellers. A midibus (20-30 seater) or a minibus (11-16 seater) may be used if the group size is 13 or less.
8) Shorter “Add-on” tours and other travel packages are available within Turkey, to Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Silk Road (Central Asia) and to other countries in the region.
9) We can make all your travel arrangements through our travel agent partner in Sydney, including flights at competitive rates, travel insurance, third party tours, etc.
10) This itinerary which is current as at 15 March 2014 is subject to change without notice.
FREE HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT OVER CAPPADOCIA!!!
ONE hot air balloon flight per couple. Single travellers get Balloon fight at half price.
Offer extended to 30 JUNE 2014!
Janet NSW September 2013
"Dear Hamit,
I apologise for not getting in touch with you sooner to say thank you for what was a really great and memorable tour of Turkey. It really was a wonderful trip and a great holiday- so many memories of amazing sights.
You and Damla (tour guide) introduced us to a special country from so many different angles. Coming back and thinking of the long history of human habitation and the archaeological record of this, the landforms and special landscapes and how the many communities responded to this and had to change over time, as well as the recent history of Turkey, its place in modern history, and its good fortune of having a leader such as Ataturk to modernise the society, makes me realise what a truly special place it is.
You have put together a fascinating tour covering so much in a relatively short time. I could easily have had another week. The hotels, meals, places we visited reflected your careful planning. We were lucky to be part of such a pleasant, easy going and adaptable group of friendly people also. Thank you for your help with small things and your attention to all our needs.
Thank you very much."