Gallipoli & Istanbul Battlefield Tour from Ireland

Your Day-by-Day Tour Itinerary

Our comprehensive 7-day tour is expertly guided to provide a rich and memorable experience, balancing the cultural wonders of Istanbul with a deep exploration of the Gallipoli campaign.

Day 1: Arrival in Historic Istanbul

Your journey begins with a flight from Dublin to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your local tour manager and transfer by executive coach to your hotel. In the evening, you’ll experience true Turkish hospitality with a welcome dinner on a rooftop terrace, enjoying stunning views of this ancient city.

Day 2: The Heart of Old Istanbul

After breakfast, we embark on a guided walking tour of Sultanahmet, the soul of Old Istanbul. Prepare to be amazed by visits to the iconic Blue Mosque and the magnificent Hagia Sophia. We will explore the opulent history of the Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace and descend into the remarkable Underground Cistern. The tour continues through the bustling, colourful alleys of the Grand Bazaar and the aromatic Egyptian Spice Markets, followed by free time in the afternoon to explore at your leisure.

Day 3: The Legendary City of Troy

Following breakfast and check-out, we depart for Canakkale on the Dardanelles coast. Our journey takes us back in time with a stop at the incredible archaeological site of Troy, where you can stand within the ruins of the legendary Trojan Wars and see a replica of the famous Wooden Horse. We also pay a visit to the site of the Renkioki Hospital before arriving in Canakkale for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Anzac Cove and the Suvla Bay Landings

Today we take a ferry across the Dardanelles to the Gallipoli peninsula to explore the Anzac Sector. After a stop at the Gaba Tepe information centre, we trace the battle lines along the Chunuk Bair road. Visits include the poignant Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Johnston’s Jolly (site of Turkish and Allied trenches), the 57th Turkish Infantry Regiment Memorial, Walker’s Ridge, and The Nek. We then explore the Suvla Bay area, with stops at Hill 10, Green Hill Cemetery, Scimitar Hill Cemetery, and Lala Baba.

Day 5: The Helles Sector

After breakfast, we dedicate a full day to exploring the Helles Sector at the southern tip of the peninsula, where British and French forces landed. Our visits include the grave of the decorated British officer Charles Doughty-Wylie, the landing sites of V Beach and W Beach (Lancashire Landing), and the imposing Helles Memorial, which commemorates all the servicemen who fell during the campaign and have no known grave. We will also visit Alcitepe Village and Ecebat before returning to our hotel.

Day 6: Bosphorus Cruise & Return to Istanbul

We check out after breakfast and depart Canakkale for our return to Istanbul. Today offers a change of pace and a new perspective as we enjoy a relaxing and scenic cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that separates two continents. Witness the city’s magnificent skyline, including palaces, fortresses, and modern mansions, from the water before checking into your hotel for your final night.

Day 7: Departure

After a final breakfast at your hotel, you will transfer to Istanbul Airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing with you a lifetime of memories from this incredible historical and cultural journey.

Please note that while this is our planned itinerary, we may have to make slight changes due to unforeseen circumstances. Regardless, we’ll pack in as much adventure as possible on this holiday of a lifetime!

Why Tour the Battlefields with Travel Escapes? Choosing the right tour for a journey of this significance is paramount.

• Expert-Led Historical Insight: Our guides are not just tour managers; they are passionate historians who bring the events of the past to life with compelling detail and personal stories.
• Seamless Travel from Ireland: With flights, transfers, and accommodation all organised for you, your journey from Ireland is completely hassle-free.
• A Focus on a Complete Narrative: We believe in showing the full picture. By visiting both Allied and German cemeteries and exploring both successes and failures, we provide a balanced and comprehensive understanding of the conflict.
• Designed for Enthusiasts: This tour is crafted for those with a genuine interest in history. We don’t just see the sites; we spend quality time at each one, allowing for proper exploration and quiet reflection.

To be part of this great tour or for more information, call us on (01) 294 1000

Or Email us: Click here to email us about the Gallipoli & Istanbul Battlefield Tour

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