

Duration: 15 days
Begins: Istanbul
Ends: Cairo
Trip Code: ETIL
Allow USD280-365 for meals not included. Allow USD150-195 for meals not included.
Arrive at any time.
There are no activities planned until our evening welcome meeting. After the meeting, opt to join your CEO and fellow travellers for dinner.
Get the most out of your time in Istanbul by pre-booking the following activity to experience before your tour starts: Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night pre-tour, or arriving at the Istanbul Airport or bus station by 6:00 am on Day 1.
And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. This activity is available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, while any of the optional activities listed can be booked independently upon arrival in Istanbul.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Go even deeper into Istanbul, discovering diverse and lesser-visited districts with your CEO, and some of the best photography spots in the city! Today we will walk along the ancient Constantinople city walls; see Tekfur Palace(the Blaherne Palace) which has got thick walls adjacent to the landwalls ; stroll through the photogenic Fener (Greek) and Balat (Jewish) districts, known for their colourful wooden houses; enjoy lunch together; and cruise the Bosphorus Strait for stunning views of Ottoman palaces and the city skyline. Please note: this is a full day (6+ hours) day excursion. Lunch is included. Your CEO will collect you from the hotel lobby at 9am. Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and modest clothing/coverings for shoulders and upper legs for visiting religious sites. There will be a welcome note at the reception with more details from your CEO, so please check on arrival.
Set off from Istanbul and take a guided tour of Gallipoli, including ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Continue on to the harbour town of Çanakkale for the night.
Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.
It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit this moving and beautiful site, a great complement to any trip to Turkey, even for those not familiar with the Battle of Gallipoli. Tour the grounds to see ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Learn how the Turks fought off the numerically superior, but badly commanded, Allied forces who were forced to withdraw nine months later; this battle holds special significance for Australians and New Zealanders, as both nations lost many soldiers.
Take a ferry from Gallipoli across to Çanakkale City Center.
Breakfast
Enjoy a guided visit of Troy before arriving at Ayvalik. Visit a women's handicraft shop, a G Adventures supported project. Opt to enjoy a half-day boat trip.
Enjoy a visit to the world-famous city of Troy. Continue to Ayvalik. Be charmed by the blend of old Ottoman architecture, cobblestoned streets, and an attractive harbour.
In the afternoon, opt to charter a small boat from the harbour to cruise this beautiful area. After, head to waterside restaurants for a sunset drink.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
See historic Troy, made famous by Homer’s “Iliad,” (and more recently by Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt). Tour the city that, for centuries, was regarded as just a myth, until its ruins were found in in the mid-19th century. Imagine what a great city this must have been, while taking a tour of the remains. Don't miss the chance to have a photo taken with the Trojan horse.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit the G-supported çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation. All products are made out of recycled goods and by making a purchase it will directly support the local women who work in the workshop and over time has contributed to over 500 women who have been part of the project.
Visit the G-supported handicraft cooperation. All products are made out of recycled goods and by making a purchase it will directly support the local women who work in the workshop and over time has contributed to over 500 women who have been part of the project.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit secluded bays, explore a nearby island, and, of course, have plenty of time for just relaxing and swimming in the turquoise waters. Drinks are available on board. Prices vary by season and group size.
Breakfast
Visit ancient Ephesus before continuing on to Selçuk.
Enjoy a free morning in Bergama before travelling to Selçuk, the base for exploring the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Ephesus.
Head to town and enjoy some free time to explore.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tour the ruins of ancient Ephesus to get a feeling of what life must have been like during Roman times. Take in its massive, well-preserved theatre, which dominates the view down Harbour Street. See the two-story library, whose façade has been carefully reconstructed from all original pieces. Built in AD 125, it once held nearly 12,000 scrolls.
Spend some more time in this quaint town.
Breakfast
Opt to visit St John's Basilica and the Mosque of Isa Bey or the nearby picturesque village of Şirince.
With free time, choose to pre-book a traditional Selcuk cooking class, walk to the remains of St John's Basilica, visit the Mosque of Isa Bey or wander the streets of this vibrant Turkish town. Another option is to catch a local “dolmus” bus to the picturesque village of Şirince (8km/5 mi) to sample some local wine or shop for crafts. For dedicated sunseekers, the beach at Pamucaki is also within reach.
Don't waste a minute — get out and explore.
Sample some of the local wine in Sirence, and find a new favourite to bring home.
View St John's Basilica, once a grand basilica in Ephesus. Constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century, it was built in where John the Apostle is said to be buried.
Visit the centuries-old Isa Bey Mosque on the outskirts of Selçuk to see one of the oldest and most impressive works of art remaining in this region.
Head out to scenic Şirince, a Turkish-Greek village that was settled when Ephesus was abandoned; it’s now 600 strong. Wander the narrow village streets filled with people selling handicrafts, olive oil, and local wine.
Visit one of the local restaurants of Selçuk where you will unlock the secrets of Turkish cuisine. Observe the preparation of a delicious traditional meal, consisting of an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert (with potential vegetarian options). The best part? At the end of the demonstration, sit down and savour the dishes with the rest of the class!
Breakfast
Guided walk of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis.
Visit the famous white cliffs of Pamukkale and the ancient site of Hierapolis.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis is evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the second century BC.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tour the white cliffs of Pamukkale to learn about this World Heritage-listed site and natural wonder. Made up of 17 hot water springs, the cliffs are formed when the calcium carbonate hardens with time. Explore the ancient site of Hierapolis built on top of the white "castle." See the large, ancient baths within the city (thought to be evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since second century BC).
Breakfast
Hop on a morning flight to İstanbul. Take a guided orientation walk before free time to explore some highlights, including the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya).
Take a short flight to İstanbul. After settling in, depart for a walking tour of the city.
Each tour will be a bit different, allowing your CEO to point out their favourite spots. See highlights that may include the Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) and the Topkapi Palace. With a little extra time, return to explore these sights in depth.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy an orientation walk of Istanbul. Each walk varies, allowing your CEO to show off their favourite spots around the city. Pass by city highlights such as the Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia (also known as the Aya Sofya), and the Blue Mosque. Walks may also include the atmospheric Spice Bazaar or breathtaking Grand Bazaar.
With tons to see and do, don't waste a minute.
Visit the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride.
Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia and China to Ottoman-era weaponry.
Visit the atmospheric Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar. Built in 1660, this is where many of the spices were originally imported. This market was, and still is, the centre of Istanbul's spice trade.
Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahçe Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur.
Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset.
This museum is home to treasures from the Ottoman and Seljuk periods, and boasts one of the world's largest collection of Turkish carpets.
Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa.
Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks.
See the intricate mosaics on display from the Byzantine period, excavated from the site of The Great Palace of Constantinople.
Explore the fabulous Blue Mosque, admiring the beautiful symmetry and internal tile work of the building. As it is a working mosque, take the chance to learn more about the ceremony behind Islam, the religion of about 98 per cent of today's Turks. Head to the front of the Blue Mosque, to see the ancient Hippodrome. It was once the scene of chariot races, and now houses monuments from various moments in Istanbul’s history.
Breakfast
Transfer to the airport for the flight from Istanbul to Cairo, Egypt. Enjoy a bit of free time after checking into the hotel before meeting up with newly-joining group members in the evening and heading out for an optional dinner.
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Breakfast
Enjoy a visit to the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx before a guided tour of The Grand Egyptian Museum. Catch an overnight train to Aswan.
Visit the pyramids and soak in the history of these majestic structures before a visit to The Grand Egyptian Museum.
In the evening, board an overnight train to Aswan. The overnight train is a modern air-conditioned sleeper, with twin-berth beds. There is no shower in the cabin, but each cabin does have a sink. The shared toilet is at the end of each carriage. A basic airline-style tray meal for dinner and breakfast is included. Attendants can serve drinks in your compartment at extra cost or there is a bar car for socializing.
Please note that during Ramadan, the museum, and Egyptian pyramids will close at 3PM this year, and so we will follow the below order, and schedule on Day 2.
Visit the Pyramids from 9 - 11
Visit the museums from 11:30 - 14:30
Lunch from 15:00 - 16:00 before heading to the train station
Enjoy a tour of the magnificent great pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx. No matter how many photos or documentaries you have seen, the first glimpse of these marvels of the ancient world will take your breath away. As a qualified Egyptologist, your CEO has all the facts about these massive structures.
The Grand Egyptian Museum is the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to the single civilization of ancient Egypt. Here you will find vast collections of over 100,000 artifacts, many of which have never been displayed before. Wander the grand halls and take a journey through Egypt’s ancient heritage and modern design.
Stretch out and get some well-earned rest en route to the next stop.
Enjoy a comfortable twin-share compartment with bunk beds and lockable doors. The beds convert into seats when not in use and luggage is stored under the bottom bunk. Bedding is provided and there is a small wash basin with soap and a towel provided. Shared toilet facilities are at the end of each carriage. A simple “airline style” dinner is also included. Non-alcoholic drinks are available to purchase and there is a bar car for socializing.
Breakfast | Dinner
Opt to explore the busy Aswan market or visit the beautiful Philae Temple, before visiting a Nubian village and enjoying a home-cooked dinner with a local family.
Our train is due to arrive in Aswan early in the morning, but, trains can often be delayed. Enjoy some free time in the morning to browse the souk or walk along the Nile.
Later, board a boat to reach one of the many Nile islands and visit a Nubian village. Walk around the small community, then enjoy a traditional dinner at a local home.
Head out and explore this sleepy town.
Board a local boat, to take a trip along the magnificent Nile, with views of the Aga Khan Mausoleum and Kitchener Island. Stop on one of the inhabited Nile islands in this area, to tour a local Nubian village. Walk through the village and fields and learn more about the life of the Nubian people before enjoying a delicious traditional dinner at a local home.
Sail across the Nile to the beautiful island of Agilkia and explore the Greco Roman history of the Temple of Philae, built as a dedication to the Goddess Isis. This temple complex was moved from its original location on the Island of Philae after the flooding of Lake Nasser, the word "philae" meaning "the end" in reference to this island's placement on what was once the southernmost border of Egypt.
Explore the Souk at your leisure, soaking in the scent and colour of spices and perfumes, and rummaging through beautiful scarves and baskets.
Breakfast | Dinner
Spend the day exploring Aswan as you choose.
One of the most fascinating sights in the area is the Temple of Abu Simbel. Later, opt for a half-day tour of the Unfinished Obelisk, High Dam, and Philae Temple. Visit the modern Nubian Museum to learn more about Aswan's local people.
Opt to pre-book the "Temple of Abu Simbel" activity on the checkout page ahead of time to include this optional on your tour.
Explore Aswan or go further afield.
Part historic monument and part modern marvel, Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s grandest temples. Built during the rule of Ramses the II this structure was almost swallowed by the Nile, but now stands safe and sound thanks to some crafty archaeologists and UNESCO. Travel through Egypt’s rugged landscapes and the towering figures of Ramses himself, Ra-Horakhty, Amun, and Ptah will all be waiting to welcome you. *Please be aware this optional activity lasts for about 8-9 hours, including the roundtrip bus transport to/from Abu Simbel. Around 2 hours are spent exploring the site itself. In addition, this activity goes on request 60 days from first travel and cannot be guaranteed bookable locally. Hotel pickup is at 4:00 am.
As the sun sets, sail across the Nile to Philae island. Watch the Philae Temple turn into a time machine through a magnificent sound and light display.
Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Ride on a Felucca to Aswan Bridge, where we will disembark and transfer to Kom Umbo. Later visit Kom Umbo temple before transferring to Luxor. Tonight, enjoy dinner at the local market where you can try some local specialties.
Board the felucca and sail to Aswan Bridge.
Feluccas are a basic, traditional Nile sailboat and make for an extremely relaxing and enjoyable way to travel down the river.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy a visit to this temple located in a scenic spot, right on the banks of the Nile. It was dedicated to the crocodile god, and you can still see the remains of an ancient mummified crocodile that was worshipped here thousands of years ago.
Board a felucca (local boat), to take a trip along the magnificent Nile, with views of the city. Journey 4 hours on the water to Aswan Bridge. Lunch will be served on board.
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
After breakfast the group will set off on a guided visit to the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. Have lunch with a local family on the West Bank of the Nile, then visit an Alabaster Factory en route back to Luxor. The remainder of the afternoon will be at your leisure.
Cross to the West Bank. Descend down the narrow corridors and check out the tombs of the pharaohs at the Valley of the Kings. The Funerary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut literally seems to rise out of the surrounding limestone outcrops. Then visit the massive 18m (59ft)-high Colossi of Memnon, which is all that remains of an ancient temple.
Enjoy lunch with a local family on the West bank of the Nile and then explore Luxor at your own pace.
Rise early to cross the Nile to the west bank, passing through farmers fields on your way to the Valley of the Kings. Descend the narrow, rock-hewn corridors and take in the magnificent decoration and designs of the tombs of the pharaohs. While the treasure has now all gone, the tombs contain the incredible paintings of the life of their incumbent and stories from the Book of the Dead. Continue on to visit to the impressive Funerary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, which seems to rise out of the surrounding limestone outcrops - a reminder of the power women held in the Ancient Kingdom. End the day with a stop at the two mammoth statues of Amenophis II at the Colossi of Memnon. Please note, there is an additional 300 EGP fee to take photos in the Valley Of Kings.
Sit down to a traditional lunch with a local family on the West bank of the Nile.
Start exploring Luxor.
Opt to descend down into the Tomb of Tutankhamun, the Valley of the Kings' most famous pharaoh. While the treasure has been moved to the Cairo Museum, it is fascinating to enter the tomb that held one of the most intact collection of treasures found in all of Egypt.
Explore the towering walls and pillars of the Luxor Temple, and take in the beautiful view of the Nile River followed by a visit of the Luxor museum including amazing collection of ancient artifacts carefully selected from the Theban temples and necropolis.
Take in the beauty of the Luxor temple, an architectural splendour located near the Nile and right in the centre of downtown Luxor. One of Egypt's most impressive temples, Luxor has been used as a place of worship all the way from it's conception in 1390 BC to present day. Evidence of ancient worship, Coptic Christianity and Islamic architecture are found throughout the temple, illustrating how the regional culture has evolved over several thousand years.
Breakfast | Lunch
In the morning the group will enjoy a visit to the Karnak Temple, which was once the centre of all religious life in ancient Egypt. From here, sail by ferry to the West Bank to meet our student-guide. Together we will bike through the village and visit the Funtasia Project Center where the group will learn about the Planeterra project at this location over tea with our guide. Later take advantage of free time in Luxor to explore the bustling local bazaar at your leisure.
Enjoy a visit to the Karnak Temple, which was once the centre of all religious life in ancient Egypt. Built and extended by successive generations of rulers, admire the amazing architecture, massive columns, and painted hieroglyphs.
The group will sail by ferry to the West Bank to meet our student-guide. Together we will bike through the village and visit the Funtasia Project Center where the group will learn about the Planeterra project at this location over tea with our guide. Funtasia is a local nonprofit that works with young people in the West Bank of Luxor to develop life skills and social consciousness. They work with youth in after school programs that teach art, communication, and social skills.
Explore the bustling local bazaar at your leisure, checking out the sights, sounds and wares for sale. Pick up a few if you like! Please note that this visit is self-guided.
Breakfast
Fly back to Cairo where the tour ends upon on arrival to the Cairo International Airport in the morning.
We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully explore this vibrant city.
Our tour finishes on arrival in Cairo at the Cairo International Airport. Please be aware that flight delays do quite often occur, so please do not book any onward flights before 2pm today.
If you opt to book the Memphis and Sakkara Excursion, please ensure you allow enough time to return from the activity when planning your onward journey. The excursion starts at the Cairo International Airport around 10:30am and ends at the joining hotel in the afternoon (the activity is about 4-5 hours). If you are arranging an international flight home on the same day please only book flights departing in the evening, no earlier than 6pm.
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Travel through desert and farm lands to Sakkara the site of Egypt's first pyramids. Delve into the history of one of Egypt’s most important archeological sites before continuing on to explore the streets of Memphis, the ancient capital of Aneb-Hetch.
Sheet1 Including guided tour by CEO, private air-conditioned transport, entrance fees and tipping 1 client: 760 EGP /85 USD 2 -4 clients: 530 EGP per person/60 USD 5-8 clients: 490 EGP per person/55 USD 9-16 clients: 445 EGP per person/50 USD
Breakfast
| dates start-End | Availability remaining spaces | Price Per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 2027 | |||
| Sun, 14 Mar - Sun, 28 Mar | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 21 Mar - Sun, 04 Apr | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 28 Mar - Sun, 11 Apr | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Apr 2027 | |||
| Sun, 04 Apr - Sun, 18 Apr | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 25 Apr - Sun, 09 May | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Jun 2027 | |||
| Sun, 06 Jun - Sun, 20 Jun | 7+ available | £2,399 | Request a quote |
| Sep 2027 | |||
| Sun, 05 Sep - Sun, 19 Sep | 7+ available | £2,549 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 19 Sep - Sun, 03 Oct | 7+ available | £2,549 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 26 Sep - Sun, 10 Oct | 7+ available | £2,549 | Request a quote |
| Oct 2027 | |||
| Sun, 03 Oct - Sun, 17 Oct | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 17 Oct - Sun, 31 Oct | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |
| Sun, 24 Oct - Sun, 07 Nov | 7+ available | £2,249 | Request a quote |