Ruins of Troy and Gallipoli: 2-Day Tour from Istanbul

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour exploring Troy and Gallipoli with transportation and accommodation included
• Visits to key sites like the Trojan Horse, ancient city walls, ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial, and more
• Expert guides lead detailed explanations of Turkey’s historic sites and battles
• Comfortable travel via air-conditioned coaches with hotel pick-up and drop-off from major Istanbul areas
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Cost of $409 per person offers a comprehensive experience with entrance fees covered

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Introduction to the 2-Day Tour from Istanbul

This $409 tour from Istanbul offers a comprehensive journey through two of Turkey’s most evocative historic sites: the ruins of Troy and the Gallipoli battlefields. The tour spans two days, beginning early with hotel pickups from key areas including Taksim, Beşiktaş, Sultanahmet, Laleli, Aksaray, and Sirkeci. The organized transportation makes exploring these distant locations straightforward and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches providing a relaxing ride.

The tour is designed for travelers interested in ancient myths, archaeological remains, and military history. It features guided visits to legendary sites such as the Trojan Horse, city walls, and various ruins at Troy, along with a detailed battlefield tour at Gallipoli. The experience combines storytelling, historical insights, and respectful monument visits, making it both educational and moving.

While the tour includes hotel stays with breakfast, it does not cover dinner or lunch on the second day. This allows flexibility for diners to choose local options after the sightseeing. For those keen on seeing Turkey’s layered past, this tour offers a well-structured, informative experience, suitable for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Exploring the Ruins of Troy and Its Legendary Stories

The first day centers on the ancient city of Troy, an archaeological site dating back over 3,700 years. Visitors explore the remains of Houses of Troy I through IX, along with city walls, the Bouleuterion, Odeon, and the Sacrificial Altars. These structures paint a picture of civilization spanning thousands of years, from 3000 BC to 2500 BC.

Among the highlights is the famous Trojan Horse, which symbolizes the legendary deception that led to the fall of Troy. The guide narrates the myth of Helen, the Trojan Wars, and the hero Achilles, helping visitors understand the stories that have shaped Western culture for centuries. The ruins are extensive enough to give a true sense of an ancient metropolis, with opportunities for photos at key sites.

This part of the tour typically takes place in the afternoon, after breakfast and travel from Istanbul. Visitors appreciate the well-preserved remains and the clarity of the guide’s storytelling, which makes the myths feel alive. The visit concludes with a trip back to Çanakkale for overnight accommodation, where a breakfast is served at the hotel.

The Gallipoli Battlefields: A Reflection of Sacrifice

On the second day, the tour shifts focus to Gallipoli, a site of significant military history. Starting around 12:30 PM, the guide takes travelers through key locations like ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Memorial, Johnston’s Jolly, and Chunuk Bair. Each stop offers insights into the battles fought here and the memorials honoring soldiers from both Turkish and Allied forces.

Visitors see cemeteries, trenches, tunnels, and memorial sites, gaining an understanding of the scale and importance of the Gallipoli campaign. The tour emphasizes respect for all soldiers, with visits to both Turkish and Allied sites. Notable stops include Respect to Mehmetcik Statue, the Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery, and The Nek, where intense fighting occurred.

The Gallipoli battlefield tour lasts until 4:45 PM, after which the group checks into a hotel to rest. The experience is highly regarded for its educational content and somber reflection, making it a meaningful part of Turkey’s history. The tour concludes with a transfer to Istanbul around 9:30 PM.

The Logistics: Pickups, Transfers, and Group Size

This tour begins with hotel pickups in Sultanahmet, Laleli, Aksaray, Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Sirkeci, ensuring convenience for travelers staying in central locations. The transportation is by a no-smoking, air-conditioned coach, providing comfort throughout the long days.

The group size is limited to 18 participants, fostering a more personalized experience and enabling guides to give detailed attention. The small group setting enhances the learning environment and allows for easier interaction. The tour offers free transfers from the European side of Istanbul, making the logistics straightforward.

Throughout both days, meals are included on the first day—specifically, an open buffet breakfast and lunch with views over the Dardanelles. The second day includes breakfast at the hotel, with lunch available separately if desired. This setup provides a good balance of guided sightseeing and free time for personal choices.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $409 per person covers transportation, entrance fees, English-speaking guides, hotel pick-up and drop-off, breakfast at the hotel, and lunch on the first day. Overnight accommodations are on a bed-and-breakfast basis at Troia Anzac Hotel.

However, the tour does not include dinner, drinks at lunch, or lunch on the second day, giving travelers flexibility to explore local restaurant options. This setup helps keep overall costs transparent and allows for personal preferences.

The guided tours are designed to be informative yet easy to follow, with entrance fees included so travelers don’t need to worry about additional expenses at the sites.

The Experience Provider and Booking Flexibility

Supplied by All Tours Istanbul, this tour is highly rated with a 4.7 out of 5 across 12 reviews. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views at sites like the Dardanelles.

Booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible choice for uncertain plans. The reserve now, pay later feature allows booking without immediate payment, adding to the convenience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This 2-day tour from Istanbul offers an engaging way to connect with Turkey’s ancient and modern history. Its comprehensive itinerary, covering mythology, archaeology, and military history, is perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The small group size and experienced guides enhance the experience, making it both educational and respectful.

While the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves considerable walking, it remains an excellent choice for those able to handle the physical aspects of site visits. The hotel accommodations and included meals add comfort and convenience, making it a well-organized option for a deep dive into Turkey’s legendary past and battlefield sacrifice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickups are available from major Istanbul areas including Sultanahmet, Laleli, Aksaray, Taksim, Beşiktaş, and Sirkeci.

How long does each day of the tour last?
The first day typically begins early with pickup at around 6:00 AM and ends around 4:45 PM after the Gallipoli battlefield tour. The second day starts with breakfast at the hotel and concludes with drop-off in Istanbul around 9:30 PM.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included both days at the hotel. Lunch is provided on the first day with views over the Dardanelles, but lunch on the second day is not included.

What sites are visited at Troy?
Visitors see the Trojan Horse, Sacrificial Altars, city walls dating back 3700 years, Houses of Troy I, the Bouleuterion, Odeon, and remains from Troy I through Troy IX.

What are the main highlights at Gallipoli?
Key sites include ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Johnston’s Jolly, Turkish and Allied trenches, Turkish cemeteries, and the Respect to Mehmetcik Statue.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves significant walking and site visits that are not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, and camera. Pets are not allowed on the tour.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 18 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

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