Visit the world famous Anatolian Civilizations Museum and the Mausoleum of Ataturk. Depart for Cappadocia along the Salt Lake. (D)

Begin the day with a spectacular balloon flight (optional extra). Full day excursion in Cappadocia, which will include the Goreme Open Air Museum, the natural rocky fortress of Uchisar, Pigeon Valley, Kaymakli Underground City, and Zelve with its fascinating “fairy chimneys”. Overnight in Cappadocia. B

Early departure this morning for Pamukkale. Along the way visit the 13th Century Seljukian masterpiece, the Sultanhan Caravanserai. On to the ancient capital of Konya to visit the very interesting Mausoleum and Museum of Mevlana, before continuing to Pamukkale and overnight. (B,D)

Visit Pamukkale, where the thermal water flows from natural pools in white terraces. Drive to the magnificent ancient Aphrodisias, famous throughout the ancient world for her Temple of Aphrodite. Visit the museum, the theatre, the stadium, the Agora, the Hadrian Baths, the Odeon, and the Bishop’s Palace. Continue west to Kusadasi and stay overnight. (B, D)

Most of the day today will be dedicated towards visiting Ephesus, which was undoubtedly one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world. Includes the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, theatre and Odeon. After visiting Virgin Mary’s House and Church of St John, it’s time for shopping. Overnight in Kusadasi. (B, D)

Make an early departure for Bergama to visit the Asclepeion and its well preserved remains. In the afternoon continue onto Troy, the place where the legendary Trojan War took place as described in the historical work of Homer of Smyrna. After visiting the site with nine inhabitation levels covering a period of 3000 years, drive to Canakkale for an overnight stay. (B, D)

Cross the strategic waterway, the Dardanelles, to visit the ANZAC sites of Gallipoli, then drive to Istanbul where the tours ends. (B)