🏛️ Gallipoli Tour – A Journey Through History

📍 Exploring the Historic Battlefields of the Gallipoli Campaign
Join us on this fully guided tour to Gallipoli, where the echoes of history remain alive. Walk in the footsteps of the Anzacs and Ottoman soldiers, visiting the key battlefields, memorials, and cemeteries that shaped one of the most defining moments of World War I.

📆 Itinerary for the Day

🕕 06:00 AM – Pick-Up from Taksim Area (Old City)
📍 Meeting Point: In front of The Marmara Hotel, Taksim Square
Guests staying in the Taksim area will be collected from the designated meeting point.

🕡 06:30 – 07:00 AM – Pick-Up from Sultanahmet Area
📍 Hotel Pick-Up (if along the route – confirmation required)
Guests staying in Sultanahmet will be picked up directly from their accommodation.
🛑 Important: Pickup is only available for hotels along the route. Please confirm your hotel/hostel name during booking.

🚌 07:00 AM – Depart for Eceabat (Gallipoli Region)
The journey to Eceabat (Gallipoli region) takes approximately 4-5 hours.
A refreshment stop midway allows you to stretch your legs and grab a snack.

🍽️ 12:00 PM – Lunch in Eceabat
Arrive in Eceabat, a charming coastal town near Gallipoli, and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant.
Take in the scenic views of the Dardanelles Strait before beginning your guided tour.

🏛️ 1:00 PM – Fully Guided Gallipoli Tour
Explore some of the most historically significant sites where bravery, sacrifice, and history intertwine:

📌 Key Sites & Memorials
✔ Brighton Beach – Originally chosen for the Anzac landings but later shifted to Anzac Cove.

✔ Beach Cemetery – Final resting place of John Simpson Kirkpatrick, the famous “Man with the Donkey.”

✔ Anzac Cove – The exact landing site of the Anzacs on April 25, 1915, a place of immense historical and emotional significance.

✔ Ariburnu Cemetery – A beautifully maintained cemetery, honoring fallen soldiers.

✔ Anzac Commemorative Site – The official site for Anzac Day memorial services, offering stunning views and reflection space.

✔ Respect to Mehmetcik Statue – A tribute to the compassion of Turkish soldiers, symbolizing brotherhood beyond battle.

✔ Lone Pine Australian Memorial – Site of some of the fiercest battles, named after a solitary tree that stood during the war.

✔ Johnston’s Jolly – Explore Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels, seeing where soldiers once fought in close combat.

✔ Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery – A moving tribute to the Ottoman soldiers who fought bravely at Gallipoli.

✔ The Nek – The site of a tragic charge by Australian light horsemen, famously depicted in the film Gallipoli.

✔ Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial – The most significant site for New Zealanders, marking their heroic stand in August 1915.

🔹 Throughout the tour, your professional guide will provide detailed insights into the Gallipoli campaign, sharing stories of courage, hardship, and resilience.

🏨 6:00 PM – Hotel Check-In (Eceabat or Canakkale)
After a day of exploration and reflection, check into your hotel in Eceabat or Canakkale.
Relax and unwind, reflecting on the day’s powerful experiences.
🏨 Overnight: Eceabat or Canakkale (as per booking arrangements).

⚠️ Important Notes
✔ Pickup Locations: Ensure your accommodation is confirmed for pickup during booking.
✔ Travel Time: The journey to Eceabat includes a refreshment stop midway.
✔ Meals: Lunch is included upon arrival in Eceabat.

✨ Why This Tour is Special:
✔ Experience history where it happened, standing on the very beaches and battlefields of Gallipoli.
✔ Honor the legacy of the Anzacs and Ottoman soldiers, learning about the heroism and hardships of the campaign.
✔ Visit beautifully preserved memorials and cemeteries, where stories of courage and sacrifice live on.
✔ Expert guides provide in-depth historical insights, making this journey an educational and emotional experience.

🌍 A Profound Journey Through the Battlefields of Gallipoli Awaits
This tour offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history, ensuring the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.

Sights Visited

🏛️ Troy Tour & Anzac Cove Experience
📍 Explore Ancient Troy & Prepare for the Anzac Dawn Service
This incredible journey takes you through the legendary ruins of Troy, offering a glimpse into one of history’s greatest ancient civilizations before you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime overnight experience at Anzac Cove in preparation for the Anzac Day Dawn Service.

📆 Itinerary for the Day
☀️ 7:30 AM – Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your accommodation in Eceabat or Canakkale.
Fuel up for the day ahead before departing for your Troy adventure.

🏛️ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Fully Guided Troy Tour
📍 Explore the Legendary Ancient City of Troy
Step back thousands of years to one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

🔹 Key Highlights of Troy
✔ The Trojan Horse – See a replica of the legendary wooden horse, symbolizing the Greek deception in Homer’s Iliad.

✔ 3,700-Year-Old City Walls – Walk alongside the impressive fortifications that protected Troy for centuries.

✔ First Houses of Troy – Discover the earliest settlements, dating back to 3000 BC.

✔ Bouleuterion (Senate Building) – Visit the ruins of the political meeting place where important decisions were made.

✔ Odeon (Concert Hall) – Imagine music and performances in this well-preserved structure.

✔ Ruins from Troy I to Troy IX – Explore the nine layers of ancient civilizations, spanning over 4,000 years of history.

📌 Your professional guide will provide in-depth insights into Troy’s rich history, mythology, and archaeological discoveries.

🕛 12:00 PM – Return to Canakkale & Free Time
📍 Relax & Explore the Coastal Charm of Canakkale
After the Troy Tour, enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Canakkale, a beautiful coastal city with historic sites, cultural attractions, and serene beaches.

🔹 Suggested Activities for Your Free Time
✔ 🏰 Visit Cimenlik Castle – A historic fortress overlooking the Dardanelles Strait.
✔ 🏖️ Relax at Habbele Plaji – Enjoy the tranquil beach atmosphere.
✔ ⚓ Explore the Canakkale Naval Museum – Learn about Turkey’s naval history and Gallipoli’s wartime legacy.
✔ 🍽️ Enjoy Local Cuisine – Try fresh seafood, traditional Turkish mezes, or local specialties.

🔹 Use this time to rest and prepare for the solemn night ahead at Anzac Cove.

🕗 8:00 PM – Departure to Anzac Cove
📍 Travel to Anzac Cove for the Overnight Experience
Board the tour bus from Eceabat and travel to Anzac Cove, the site of the Anzac Day commemorations.
Upon arrival, settle into the grandstands and sleeping grounds at the Commemorative Site.

🔹 Facilities are limited, so ensure you bring your own warm sleeping bag or blanket for comfort during the night.

🌙 Overnight at Anzac Cove – Preparing for the Dawn Service
As night falls, immerse yourself in documentaries, historical presentations, and tributes played on big screens. These moving stories will deepen your understanding of the Anzac legacy and the Gallipoli campaign.

✔ Watch historical documentaries about Gallipoli and the Anzacs.
✔ Listen to guest speakers reflecting on the courage, hardship, and mateship of those who served.
✔ Experience the unity as Australians, New Zealanders, and visitors gather in remembrance.

🏕️ Overnight: Sleeping under the stars at Anzac Cove, awaiting the Dawn Service.

⚠️ Important Notes & Recommendations

✔ Troy Tour: Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient ruins.
✔ Anzac Cove: Sleeping bags or blankets are NOT provided. Please bring your own for warmth and comfort.
✔ Free Time in Canakkale: Use this time wisely to rest, explore, and prepare for the long night ahead at Anzac Cove.
✔ Facilities at Anzac Cove: There are limited amenities, so pack snacks, warm clothing, and essential items for the night.

✨ Why This Tour is Special:
✔ Explore the legendary ruins of Troy, one of history’s greatest ancient cities.
✔ Experience the emotional overnight stay at Anzac Cove, a deeply moving and unique experience.
✔ Honor the Anzacs in the lead-up to the Dawn Service, where their sacrifices are remembered and revered.
✔ Connect with history in an unparalleled way, from the mythology of Troy to the real-life bravery at Gallipoli.

🌍 A Historic & Meaningful Journey Awaits
This experience combines ancient legends with modern remembrance, offering a unique opportunity to honor the past, whether through the ruins of Troy or the sacrifices at Gallipoli.

Sights Visited

🌅 Anzac Day Ceremonies & Return to Istanbul
📍 Commemorating the Anzacs & Reflecting on a Historic Journey
This profound and moving day marks the culmination of the Anzac experience, as we honor the fallen soldiers at three significant commemorative services before returning to Istanbul.

📜 Itinerary for Anzac Day Ceremonies

🕔 5:30 AM – The Dawn Service at Anzac Cove
📍 Anzac Cove – The Landing Site of the Anzacs
Gather for the Anzac Day Dawn Service, a deeply moving tribute set against the first light over Gallipoli.
The Last Post will echo through the cove, followed by prayers, reflections, and national anthems.
This solemn ceremony unites people from all over the world in remembrance and respect.
🔹 Take a moment to absorb the history and significance of standing on this hallowed ground.

🇦🇺 10:30 AM – Australian National Ceremony at Lone Pine
📍 Lone Pine Cemetery – Honoring Australian Soldiers
Travel to Lone Pine, where one of the most intense battles of Gallipoli took place.
Participate in a powerful tribute to the Australian soldiers, including:
✔ Speeches from Australian officials and military representatives.
✔ Wreath-laying and the playing of the Australian national anthem.
✔ Moments of reflection on the bravery and sacrifices of the Anzacs.
🔹 This site remains one of the most significant locations for Australians at Gallipoli.

🇳🇿 11:30 AM – New Zealand National Ceremony at Chunuk Bair
📍 Chunuk Bair – The Key Battlefield for New Zealand Forces
Proceed to Chunuk Bair, where New Zealand troops fought heroically to secure the high ground.
Attend the New Zealand National Ceremony, including:
✔ Official speeches honoring Kiwi soldiers and their legacy.
✔ The playing of the New Zealand national anthem and traditional tributes.
✔ Reflections on the courage of those who fought and fell on this battlefield.
🔹 Chunuk Bair holds immense significance for New Zealanders, symbolizing their nation’s resilience and bravery.

🚌 After the Final Ceremony – Return to Istanbul
📍 Gather at the Pre-Arranged Pickup Point
Once the Chunuk Bair ceremony concludes, meet at the designated pickup point, where the tour bus will be waiting.
Depart for Istanbul in the afternoon, allowing you to reflect on the day’s powerful moments during the 4-5 hour journey back.
📌 Rest stop midway for refreshments & comfort break.

🏙️ 6:00 – 7:00 PM – Arrive in Istanbul
📍 Drop-off at your hotel or a central location in Istanbul.
🏨 End of Tour – Final Reflections on a Meaningful Journey
🔹 Take this evening to process the emotions of the day and honor the legacy of those who served.

✨ Key Highlights of the Day
✔ Attend three deeply moving ceremonies, paying tribute to the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand soldiers.
✔ Experience the power of Anzac Day firsthand, standing in the places where history was made.
✔ Journey back to Istanbul in comfort, reflecting on the memories and lessons of Gallipoli.

⚠️ Important Notes & Reminders
✔ Timing: Exact pickup and drop-off times may vary slightly depending on traffic and the flow of ceremonies.
✔ Luggage: Ensure any luggage is securely stored in the bus during the ceremonies.
✔ Weather Considerations: Mornings can be cold, and temperatures rise throughout the day—layered clothing is recommended.
✔ Facilities at Anzac Cove & Ceremonies: Limited amenities—bring snacks, water, and personal essentials.

🌍 A Journey of Remembrance & Reflection
This final day of the Anzac Tour offers a chance to honor history, connect with the past, and carry forward the spirit of the Anzacs.
Lest we forget. 🌺

Sights Visited