2026 DEPARTURE
17 DAYS | 16 NIGHTS 

$12,750.00* AUD per person Double or Twin Share
$3,340.00* AUD Solo Traveller Single Supplement

SOLD OUT

CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER and SUBMIT YOUR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST 2027

G&T’s ‘Timeless Turkey’ is a true treat for your senses!

We have designed this Premium Luxury Style 17-day itinerary to include many 2-night stops and even two 3-night stops so that you can really soak up all that this country has to offer. The focus goes beyond the UNESCO World heritage sites and encompasses the lifestyle elements as well. We will have time to delve into the local neighbourhoods and witness what makes Turkey such an adventurer’s destination. Turkey also has a gastronomical UNESCO World Heritage scene second to none and for all you ‘Foodies’ you will be indulging your tastebuds for sure.

The landscape and scenery will capture your artistic photographic skills as we move between the ancient cities, scenic countryside, relaxed coastal towns and historical sites.

Colourful bazaars blend everything from the East and the West as a reminder of this old Silk Trade Route.

G&T Clubbers always appreciate the style of our chosen accommodation as it is in excellent locations, and each night offers a different experience that often gets a mention as a highlight! If this is an adventure on your bucket list than we would love for you to join us and share an amazing experience!

There are some great tour companies out there but they all tend to follow the same path and the same style. We are not re-inventing the wheel but feel that our ‘product’ has some very distinct differences and some personal touches that make our travel experience quite unique. For our existing G&T Clubbers, you know all of this but for the benefit of our new comers and of course your immediate family and friends who we invite to join us, please see below how we differ.

G&T always develop an exciting itinerary with natural flow to maximise our time and experience. We choose our tour dates with regard for the best possible weather and less crowds. Importance forTurkey was given to the appreciation of the abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites but not forgetting the Culture & Lifestyle aspects. 

CLICK HERE to view an interactive version of the tour map online

G&T handpicked superb accommodation with the concept of adding to your overall Turkish experience.Several multi night stops have been added along with two 3-night stops. Our choices were made with consideration of location and proximity to the action, spectacular views, style, feel and facilities, not just a star-rating. We love to use experience accommodation.

G&T always make choices that allow easy access to excellent food. Whether it be our daily breakfast or the proximity to great restaurants and cafes nearby. We also like to check that the obvious dietary requirements can be catered for. We have included several experience dinners in Turkey to ensure that you don’t miss out on the best.

G&T always host every Club Tour. This gives you something no one else can match. We will be with you the entire time, assisting with your needs and looking after you personally. On top of that we will always employ our own National Tour Guides along with localised city guides to better understand the local areas.

G&T most importantly make sure that the product is ‘Great Value’. Not necessarily the cheapest but well worth the few extra dollars to ensure an amazing experience! The value will be evident in our chosen hotels and diverse itinerary. 

G&T always design a tour program with the Clubbers in mind. The concept of the Club remains the same and that is, our Club is invite only and not open to the general public. Clubbers are always encouraged to bring along their immediate family and or friends as we feel that they too will be a good fit for the G&T Travel Club. The Club attracts many well-travelled and fun guests. 

TURKEY 2026 ITINERARY

‘Hoş geldin’ – WELCOME!

Arrive Istanbul International Airport and make your way to your start hotel.

NB: See notes regarding transfers on day 17.

Once checked into your hotel you will have time to relax before we all meet up for our pre tour meeting late this afternoon, time TBA.

Meals Included: None

Overnight: Hagia Sofia Mansions, Curio Collection by Hilton (2 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Boutique Hotel 

The city that famously connects the East to the West, Asia with Europe, once the capital of one of the greatest empires of all time, is again taking its place as one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in the world. Home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Aside from traditionally known culture and history, over the years she has turned into a well-known checkpoint of gastronomy, music, contemporary arts, fashion and entertainment. Istanbul deserves special care, expertise and a delicate effort to enjoy.

Our sightseeing today will include: The Hippodrome, The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, The Underground Cistern and The Grand Bazaar.

You will have a chance today to taste some of the traditional Turkish delights.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hagia Sofia Mansions, Curio Collection by Hilton (2 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Boutique Hotel (within easy walking distance to everything local) 

Ancient Nicaea lies just near Lake Iznik. Originally an important Roman and Byzantine town, it fell to the Seljuks in 1078 and subsequently to the Ottomans in 1331. Still a small town, as it sits within its original Roman walls. The four gates that allowed access to the city still stand. In the town centre, the ruins of the St. Sophia Cathedral, the seat of the first Ecumenical Council of the Christian church, evoke images of convening bishops and clergy. In the 16 and 17 centuries, Iznik was the centre of production of the exquisite ceramic wares that have made such an important decorative contribution to mosques and palaces throughout Turkey.

With an 8500-year history, Bursa has a thriving culture that leaves visitors in awe. It has grown to be one of Turkey’s most prominent cities with a total of 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, thanks to its natural beauties, distinct culture, and architectural texture shaped by centuries of history. The International Organization of Turkish Culture has recognised its cultural diversity. In Bursa, many places such as parks, thermal springs, inns, and spas add to the significance of this magnificent city.

We then continue to Koza Han, one of the most important stops on the Silk Road. This historic inn located in the city of Bursa was built to meet the accommodation and trade needs of merchants who were selling silk. It was built in 1491 and is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. Today it is still conducting silk trade and oozes with both historical and cultural essence.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Movenpick Hotel and Thermal Spa Bursa (1 night)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel 

The capital of the mighty Lydian Kingdom, Sardis dominated Aegean trade during the 7 century BC – 5 century BC. This was largely due to its innovation of minted coinage in the 7 century BC. The site of the Mint has been found, and you can see both it and the equipment used to melt and stamp the currency. Sardis gold came from the nearby Pactolus River, and it made King Croesus a legendary wealthy ruler.

The Temple of Artemis (Temple of Diana) is larger than the Parthenon and regarded as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. An enormous and beautiful Synagogue with fine mosaics, built on the sites of the old baths and gymnasium, was restored by the Sardis-American Excavation Fund between 1965 and1973.

Kusadasi is a resort town located on the Aegean coast and known for its lively atmosphere, and historical sites. It is the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites. It is also great for handmade crafts, textiles, leather goods and more. Kusadasi boasts 300+ days of sunshine a year!

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Elite World Kusadasi Hotel (2 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel

Today we explore the remarkable Greco-Roman archaeological site of Ancient Ephesus. Dating back to the 11 century BC, it has been painstakingly excavated and restored and is one of the world’s most fascinating sites of antiquity. Ephesus flourished as a prominent city and seaport between 600 BC and 500 AD.

We will begin our walking tour along Royal Road also known as the Arcadian Way, a 4 century white marble chariot thoroughfare who’s most striking sight is the two-story Library of Celsus. Uniquely beautiful, with its restored facade now the famed symbol of Ephesus, the Library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts, making it the 2nd largest in the ancient world after the library in Alexandria, Egypt.

Your walk along the Royal Road will also take you past the remains of some of the ancient city’s major civic buildings as you move toward the Ephesus Theatre, from which St. Paul once preached to the Ephesians. The amphitheatre, which seats 25,000, has exceptional acoustics and is still in use today for concerts and theatrical performances.

In addition to the historic monuments, your tour will also include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a lovely little chapel set in the hills behind Ephesus, believed to be the Virgin Mary’s last home. Tonight, we will experience the delicious food scene by the sea.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner at Kazim Usta Restaurant

Overnight: Elite World Kusadasi Hotel (2 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel 

There is nothing quite like the Buzzing Harbor of Bodrum. White-washed Aegean houses climbing the hills around two semi-circular ports which unite in an islet topped by a beautiful castle. A large ancient theatre dominates the landscape above hundreds of ‘Gulets’ (Turkish sailing boats) that crowd the harbor below. There is unlimited energy flooding the streets of this gorgeous seaside town.

We will visit Bodrum Castle which was built by the Crusaders in the 15th century, and which is also the home to the fascinating Underwater Archaeological Museum. The seas around Bodrum (Halicarnassus) were notoriously treacherous and claimed many shipwrecks. As such, this is one of the world’s largest collections of ancient vessels and their cargos. We will learn about the history of the ancient world through the historic cargo and trading patterns.

We will proceed to the Bodrum Mausoleum (The tomb of King Mausolus). The magnificent tomb that first defined the term “mausoleum” was built in Halicarnassus. Set on a massive podium, this was a monument of incredible grandeur, 45 meters tall and with reliefs on each facade carved by some of the most famous Greek 4 century BC sculptors. It was toppled by earthquakes between 1100 – 1400 and until then it was also one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Most of the marble blocks and polished stone became spolia for Bodrum Castle, but the mausoleum’s original site is still a humbling place because of what it represents.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: The Marmara Bodrum Hotel (2 nights)

Style: Luxury Adult Only Retreat 

Today you can explore Bodrum at your own pace.

Here around the peninsula, lush green forests run down to the deep blue crystal-clear Aegean waters. There are many hidden coves and lagoons and small unnamed islands off the coast. You may wish to explore the unique bays of Bodrum by boat or simply enjoy the street life with the locals. Perhaps a café to sit and enjoy a Turkish Coffee and Baklava is on your list.

OPTIONAL: Private Gulet Tour of Bodrum Bay. Explore the beautiful Bays of Bodrum (10.30am-4.30pm) Cost TBA

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner at Mudavim Restaurant

Overnight: The Marmara Bodrum Hotel (2 nights)

Style: Luxury Adult Only Retreat 

Today we will visit the ancient city of Stratonikeia, (on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage sites) and one of the largest marble cities in the world. Known as the ‘City of Gladiators’ or more affectionately as the ‘City of Eternal Love’. The excavations started in 1977 and so far, have uncovered archaeological importance for the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Beylik of Mentese, Ottoman and Republican periods. The city’s well preserved ruins and monuments provide a captivating glimpse into its rich history.

Then onto Pamukkale which means ‘Cotton Castle’ is also known as Hierapolis-Pamukkale. An ancient thermal spa based on natural hot springs. The area, which features striking white terraces with travertines formed from calcite-rich water, has been used for healing therapies since Hellenistic and Roman times. It became a popular tourist destination in the 1960s, especially after being declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner in the Hotel

Overnight: Doga Thermal Health and Spa Hotel (1 night)

Style: Modern Luxury Spa Hotel 

Today is a travel day!

Rather than a super long drive to Cappadocia today we will instead be stopping enroute and breaking the journey for a delicious local lunch and similarly we will enjoy the hospitality of Konya for dinner as we enjoy the traditional local cuisine.

Konya, home to the theological school of ‘Whirling Dervishes’ (men clad completely in white and spinning as if in a trance) has a deep cultural heritage, tranquil atmosphere, and vibrant traditions, Konya offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and fantastic Turkish culture and cuisine. Let’s see if we can try the local dish of Etli Ekmek Pide.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hich Hotel Konya (1 night)

Style: Historic Charm Hotel 

Today we have a lazy start and after breakfast we make our way to Cappadocia for 3 nights. Upon arrival and after checking in to your fabulous accommodation your afternoon is at leisure.

The region of Cappadocia is a true wonder. It’s unique, and it’s unusual!

Millenia-long volcanic activity followed by an on going process of erosion and contraction of the volcanic matter leaves behind a soft, porous stone named tuff. Together this has created a landscape ‘more unique’ than any other. The valleys of tuff filled with ‘fairy chimneys’ became, at the hands of expert carvers, cave dwellings, monasteries and chapels, cellar villages and more.

During your stay you will discover this magical fairy land. Cappadocia is filled with plenty of panoramic viewings, several opportunities for hiking and ballooning, that will take you off the road into the very heart of the landscape. You will be guided through its fascinating rock-carved churches and subterranean settlements. You will marvel at the face created by the faithful and industrious people of the region.

You will witness the fascinating culture, art and creativity of their endeavours like the local pottery and weavings. We have 3 nights here so you will be able to really soak up the full enchanting atmosphere.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel (3 nights)

Style: Luxury Cave Hotel 

OPTIONAL: Early morning Hot Air Balloon adventure. This morning you may wish to soar above this fascinating landscape and appreciate the vast ancient scenery below. Cost TBA

Avanos Town is where you will have the chance to meet one of the most colourful local personalities of the Cappadocia region, the ‘Old Master of Pottery’. His primitive atelier, personally built in the labyrinth– like caves of Avanos Village. Located by the shores of the Kizilirmak river (the longest river in Turkey) the earth is soft and reddish in colour, an ideal raw material for the area’s traditional pottery style.

Explore one of the most extraordinary treasures. The Goreme Open Air Museum is one of the Cultural Wonders of the World and has been included as one of the many UNESCO World Heritage listings. These early churches of Christianity display incredibly beautiful frescoes which adorn the inside walls of the rock caves.

Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley), is famous for its unique ‘fairy chimneys’ with multiple caps. These mushroom-shaped rock formations were shaped by volcanic activity and erosion over centuries. The valley was once home to hermit monks, including St. Simeon, who lived in rock-carved dwellings for solitude and devotion.

Zelve open air museum is also UNESCO World Heritage listed and was once a thriving rock-cut village, home to both Christians and Muslims until the 1950s. Zelve features ancient cave dwellings, churches, tunnels, and monasteries all spread across three ancient valleys.

OPTIONAL: Sunset Jeep Safari Join an unforgettable adventure with a Sunset Jeep Safari in Cappadocia. Driving through stunning landscapes as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant colours. Cost TBA

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel (3 nights)

Style: Luxury Cave Hotel

Kaymakli, another marvel of the region is the ‘underground city’ at Kaymakli. This amazing network of tunnels, chambers and rooms all carved into the soft volcanic rock stretches 8 stories deep. About 10% of the village has been excavated so far and it is no wonder it also makes the UNESCO World Heritage listing. With your guide, you will follow a lighted visitor route and descend to 70 feet. The implicit purpose and the date of the construction of these ‘underground cities’ is a mystery still to this day.

Mustafapasa Village, also known as Sinasos in Greek, is a popular village to visit in Cappadocia, renowned for its excellent Ottoman and Greek architecture. The stone mansions, which have become icons from the past to the present, also create a fascinating atmosphere for visitors. Here, you will take an easy stroll to explore the village.

Cavusin Village is an abandoned village with rock cut dwellings and stone houses. It has also several hermitages and churches. The Basilica dedicated to St. John the Baptist (located on the cliff above the village) is one of the oldest rock-cut monuments of Cappadocia. Tonight, you may wish to experience the tradition of the Whirling Dervishes before deciding on just where you wish to enjoy your dinner.

OPTIONAL: The Whirling Dervishes Show – Pick up time from the hotel is around 18:00.For a Whirling Dervishes show that includes the lead dervish and 4 additional dervishes along with 4 musicians, we suggest for an authentic experience to see the show in Cappadocia at Saruhan Caravanserai, built in the 12th century. Cost TBA

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Yunak Evleri Cave hotel (3 nights)

Style: Luxury Cave Hotel 

Tarsus district of Mersin welcomes many visitors throughout the year. Standing out with its 6000-year historical heritage, Tarsus is the centre of the Cilician civilization and is one of the oldest cities in the world with uninterrupted settlement since its foundation. We will visit the St. Paul Memorial Church (built between the 11th and 12th centuries) and the St. Paul Well (both on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list). The ‘Well’ remains at 38 metres deep year-round as Christian pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem used to drink from the well which was considered sacred.

We will also visit the Roman Road and Roman Bath and the historical Kırkkaşık Bedesten then continue to Gaziantep for another 3-night stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Tugcan Hotel (3 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel 

Gaziantep is an ancient city adorned with cultural, religious, and gastronomic riches and 6000 years of history. It is UNESCO World Heritage listed for the food, and it is a true foodie destination. You may wish to try the Katmer or the Kunefe. Its location on trade routes and the crossing point of civilizations has made it popular and enriched in every period.

These lands, which hosted many important city states, also welcomed numerous types of beliefs, from pagan cults to monotheistic religions. Each civilization added its own cultural heritage to the previous one, which resulted in a wonderful historical taste, just like the layers of phyllo that make up baklava. This amazing taste came to light through the mosaics, sculptures and reliefs of the craftsmen in the region.

Zeugma is an ancient city and was founded around the 3 century BC that later became part of the Roman Empire. Zeugma, well known for its mosaics was strategically placed on the banks of the Euphrates River, serving as an important military and trade hub. Situated along the historic trade routes, the city was a vital point connecting the East and West.

One of the most iconic mosaics is “Gypsy Girl”, admired for its stunning craftsmanship and realistic portrayal. The museum provides an opportunity to view these ancient masterpieces up close.Gaziantep Castle is a historic fortress that dates to the Roman period. The castle has undergone several reconstructions and expansions over the centuries, particularly during the Byzantine, Seljuk, andOttoman periods. It stands atop a hill, providing a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas.

The castle has a rich history, having been used for various military and defensive purposes. Its strategic location was crucial for controlling the region and protecting the city from invaders. It features large stone walls and several towers that once housed soldiers. Gaziantep Bazaar is colourful display of all things Turkish and well worth taking the time to wander.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: Tugcan Hotel (3 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel

A private sightseeing tour of Sanliurfa with visits to Gobekli Tepe, Karahan Tepe, Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum, The cave of Abraham, the Sacred Fish Pool and Mevlid Halil Mosque.

Göbekli Tepe is one of the most significant and mysterious archaeological discoveries of the 21st century. Dating back to around 9600 BC, Göbekli Tepe is the world’s oldest known temple complex. The site consists of large stone circles, with massive pillars featuring intricate carvings of animals such as snakes, scorpions, lions, and birds. These carvings suggest a ritualistic or religious purpose, though the exact function of the site is still debated by researchers.

What makes Göbekli Tepe especially remarkable is that it predates Stonehenge by about 6,500 years, challenging previous ideas about the development of human civilization. Göbekli Tepe is believed to be deliberately buried around 8000 BC, and it remained hidden for thousands of years. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors and researchers from all over the world due to its historical significance and the mysteries still surrounding it.

Karahan Tepe is a significant archaeological site for its prehistoric importance, as it is part of the broader Göbekli Tepe culture. Karahan Tepe is a key site for understanding the Neolithic period, particularly for its monumental structures, carvings, and ancient rituals.

The site has been excavated and studied in recent years. Karahan Tepe is believed to have been a ceremonial or ritual space, and it shares many features, such as large stone carvings, raised platforms, and enclosures. The Cave of Abraham is a significant historical and religious site in Urfa. The cave is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham, and it holds religious importance for Muslims, Jews, and Christians, as Abraham is a central figure in all three monotheistic religions. It is said that Abraham was born in this cave after his mother fled to escape the persecution of King Nimrod, who wanted to kill him.

The cave is situated in the city centre of Sanliurfa, and there is a large complex around it, including a beautiful garden and a pool known as the “Pool of Sacred Fish” where fish are believed to be sacred.

Urfa Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in the region. It showcases a rich collection of  artifacts that reflect the long history and cultural heritage of the area, which is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited regions. The museum is not only a place to view historical objects but also serves as an educational centre, offering insights into the cultural significance of the region throughout various periods of history.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Tugcan Hotel (3 nights)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel 

Transfer from Hotel to Gaziantep Airport for morning flight to Istanbul.

On arrival we will transfer to our hotel and have the balance of the day at leisure.

There will be some time for last minute shopping or maybe arrange to take a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus River. You may just want to wander around the neighbourhood to take advantage of some great photographic opportunity.

Tonight, we will enjoy our G&T Gala Farewell dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: The Galata Istanbul Hotel, M Gallery (1 night)

Style: Modern Luxury Hotel 

Sadly, today you are heading home but not without a great appreciation of this amazing country. We trust that Turkey will hold a fond spot in your heart for evermore!

Make your way from the hotel to the airport.

Meals Included: Breakfast

VIEW THE TURKEY BROCHURE

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PRICE INCLUDES

  • 1 x Internal domestic flight from Gaziantep to Istanbul
  • Accommodation in Double/Twin/ or Single rooms
  • Breakfast daily in the hotels 
  • Lunches and dinners as indicated in the program 
  • Internal hotel to airport transfer in Gaziantep 
  • Modern A/C touring minibus or larger coach depending on the group size 
  • English speaking escort/guide 
  • Local guides where required
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned monuments/sites
  • Gala Farewell Dinner in Istanbul 
  • Gools and Thommo as your hosts 

PRICE EXCLUDES

  • Arrival day/departure day airport transfers.
  • Travel Insurance and visas (Compulsory)
  • Expenses of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, snacks, laundry, telephone calls etc.
  • Any additional optional activities you may wish to add on.NB: Prices are subject to change if there are any government tax increases on hotels & transportation or any increases in included monument entry fees.

Note: Tipping in Turkey is customary. We have found from experience that the best way to deal with this is to generate a ‘tips kitty’ which takes away the guess work and the need for constant small change which can be embarrassing. Please budget Euro €250 cash for this kitty. Small denominations are best. Please have this cash ready for collection at our pre departure meeting on day 1.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR DEVALUATION REPRICE CLAUSE

G&T price our tours on a very narrow margin to give you, our clubbers, the best possible value for money. In the event of a major currency fluctuation/devaluation, we reserve the right to recalculate the price until the final payment due date. If AUD / EURO rate drops below AUD 1.00 = EURO 0.52, we reserve the right to reprice the tour.

Note: This EURO ‘trigger rate’ of AUD 1.00 = EURO 0.52 is not the ‘official rate’ you see advertised by the bank, but our ‘buy’ rate when we purchase the currency through our bank which is the National Australia Bank (NAB). 

GRAB YOUR SPOT

We do require a minimum of 10 guests on each tour to guarantee the departures.

Many of our chosen accommodations are in highly sort after locations and we have a maximum of 13 rooms blocked for us. This means, as we secure single room occupancy for our solo travellers our group sizes will decrease as we fill our maximum 13 rooms.

NB: Group size will then be a maximum of 18-20 on each tour.

NB: Our average group size historically has been 13-16, depending on the number of solo travellers. 

PLEASE CLICK HERE to go to our online booking form.