Commemorate Anzac Day in Gallipoli during this 12-night tour of Türkiye paired with an Eastern Mediterranean Holland America Line cruise.
Flying to İstanbul, your holiday begins with a three-night hotel stay at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Marvel at the city’s ottoman splendour before travelling to Gallipoli for Anzac Day to pay your respects to the service people of Australia and New Zealand. Next, you’ll explore the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, Konya’s cultural gems and Pamukkale’s mineral-rich terraces.
You’ll then fly to Athens to join an 11-night Mediterranean cruise on board the splendid Oosterdam. Enjoy a lavish array of dining and fabulous entertainment as you explore ports including beautiful Mykonos and historic Dubrovnik. Finally, your voyage culminates with a two-night stay in Mestre, on the outskirts of Venice.
The majestic Oosterdam offers guests plenty to see and do on board when not soaking up expansive views of the sea, or relaxing in spacious staterooms after an exciting day partaking in all manner of activities across the vessel’s 11 decks.
Guests are invited to begin their day with an exquisite breakfast in the gorgeously adorned Dining Room, before enjoying other generous on-board amenities such as the Greenhouse Spa and Salon. From live dance performances to sushi bars and movie theatres, there are facilities and activities for everyone to revel in on board this mighty vessel.
In addition to Oosterdam’s unique design features, the stunningly large open-air deck offers mesmerising ocean views while you take a stroll or relax in your deckchair. At night, when the ship truly comes alive, you can catch numerous further activities such as expert history lectures or electric theatre productions under the stars.
11 night full-board cruise on board Oosterdam
Hotel Stays
3 night four-star hotel stay in İstanbul at the Sheraton İstanbul City Center with breakfast
3 night four-star hotel stay in Çanakkale at the DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale with breakfast
1 night four-star hotel stay in Kuşadası at the Elite World Kuşadası with breakfast and dinner
1 night four-star hotel stay in Pamukkale at the Richmond Pamukkale Thermal with breakfast, lunch and dinner
1 night four-star stay in Konya at the Grand Hotel Konya with breakfast, lunch and dinner
2 night four-star hotel stay in Cappadocia at the Crowne Plaza Cappadocia – Nevsehir with breakfast and dinner
1 night four-star stay in Ankara at New Park Hotel Ankara with breakfast
1 night four-star hotel stay in Athens at the Meliá Athens with breakfast
2 night four-star hotel stay in Mestre at the Four Points by Sheraton Venice Mestre with breakfast
İstanbul city tour including the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Square, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
Overnight flights
Inside From $11,499pp
Ocean View From $12,819pp
Verandah From $13,819pp
Signature Suite From $14,779pp
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 one-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 Line’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, savour 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 savour 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.
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.
