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Gallipoli to the Mediterranean with Anzac Day Remembrance Tour

 

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.

 
 

 

  Departure Date:   19 April 2026
  Istanbul  →  Venice
28 nights from

$11,499

pp incl FLIGHTS!
 
Your Inclusions:

 

 Economy flight from Sydney to Istanbul and return from Venice including taxes
(ADD $200pp from Brisbane, Adelaide,  Melbourne or Perth)
 All International Transfers
 BONUS 3 night four-star hotel stay in İstanbul at the Sheraton İstanbul City Center with breakfast
 BONUS İstanbul city tour including the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome Square, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar
 BONUS Gallipoli Memorial, Anzac Cove and the Lone Pine Cemetery visit
 BONUS Troy ancient city & Trojan Horse photo stop
 BONUS 3 night four-star hotel stay in Çanakkale at the DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale with breakfast
 BONUS EVENT Anzac Day Dawn Service*
 BONUS Ancient City of Pergamon tour with cable car to the Acropolis of Pergamon
 BONUS 1 night four-star hotel stay in Kuşadası at the Elite World Kuşadası with breakfast and dinner
 BONUS Optional House of Virgin Mary tour
 BONUS Ephesus visit
 BONUS 1 night four-star hotel stay in Pamukkale at the Richmond Pamukkale Thermal with breakfast, lunch and dinner
 
 BONUS 1 night four-star stay in Konya at the Grand Hotel Konya with breakfast, lunch and dinner
 BONUS Hierapolis, Cotton Castle, Thermal Baths & Amphitheatre
 BONUS 1 night four-star stay in Konya at the Grand Hotel Konya with breakfast, lunch and dinner
 BONUS Konya tour visiting the Mevlana Museum
 BONUS 2 night four-star hotel stay in Cappadocia at the Crowne Plaza Cappadocia – Nevsehir with breakfast and dinner
 BONUS Sultan Han Caravanserai visit
 BONUS Local Outlet textiles visit
 BONUS Cappadocia tour including Pigeon Valley, Uçhisar Fort, Paşabağ Valley and Avanos Valley
 BONUS Optional 5am tour to see Cappadocia sunrise
 BONUS Salt Lakes photo stop and Wine House wine tasting in Cappadocia
 BONUS 1 night four-star stay in Ankara at New Park Hotel Ankara with breakfast
 BONUS 1 night four-star hotel stay in Athens at the Meliá Athens with breakfast
 BONUS 11 night full-board cruise on board Oosterdam sailing from Athens to Venice
 BONUS 2 night four-star hotel stay in Mestre at the Four Points by Sheraton Venice Mestre with breakfast
 All Air & Port Taxes
 
 
Your Itinerary:

 

Day 1:  Overnight flight to Istanbul
Your holiday begins as you fly from Australia to Istanbul
 
Day 2:  Istanbul: Hotel Stay
Arriving in Istanbul, your thrilling adventure begins with a three night hotel stay. After transferring from the airport to your hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Sheraton İstanbul City Center​​
 
Day 3: Istanbul: 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.
Overnight at Sheraton İstanbul City Center (B)
 

 

Day 4: Istanbul: Hotel Stay & Tour
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.
Overnight at Sheraton İstanbul City Center (B)

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.
Overnight DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale (B)
 
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.
Overnight DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale (B)
 

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.
Overnight DoubleTree by Hilton Çanakkale (B)

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.
Overnight Elite World Kuşadası (B,L,D)
 
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.
Overnight Richmond Pamukkale Thermal (B,L,D)
 

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.
Overnight Grand Hotel Konya (B,L,D)
 
 
 

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.
Overnight Crowne Plaza Cappadocia – Nevsehir (B,L,D)
 
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.
Overnight Crowne Plaza Cappadocia – Nevsehir (B,L)
 

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 two-night hotel stay.
Overnight New Park Hotel Ankara (B)
 
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.
Overnight Meliá Athens (B)
 

Day 15: Piraeus: Embark Ship
Step on board Holland America’s Oosterdam for a remarkable voyage to cherish. With its elegant design and sophisticated amenities, Oosterdam provides a perfect blend of comfort and style.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 
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.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 

 
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.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 
Days 18 - 19: İstanbul: Overnight in Port
Where East and West converge. Immerse in rich history, savor exotic cuisine, and feel the heartbeat of diverse cultures. Let this enchanting city awaken your senses and expand your horizons.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 

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.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 
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 savor the beauty of coastal Greece.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 

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.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 
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.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 

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.
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 
Day 25: Relax At Sea
Overnight Oosterdam (B,L,D)
 

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.
Overnight Four Points by Sheraton Venice Mestre (B)
 
Days 28 - 29: Venice: Fly Home
Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.

Meet Your Ship!


 

Oosterdam

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Dining

Treat your tastebuds to a wide range of delectable dishes and refined cuisine on board Oosterdam. With so much to choose from, there is sure to be something to suit your current taste and mood – so why not get exploring the many on-board eateries?
  • The Pinnacle Grill
  • Tamarind
  • The Dining Room
  • Rudi’s Sel De Mar
  • Nami Sushi
  • Club Orange
  • Canaletto
  • Taste of De Librije (European Sailings)
  • Lido
  • New York Deli and Pizza
  • Dive-in
  • Grand Dutch Cafe
  • Explorations Cafe
  • Gelato
  • The Culinary Arts Centre
 

Facilities

It doesn’t matter whether you like to take things slow and steady on a cruise holiday, or are more the ‘all-action’ type; this Vista-class ship is sure to have plenty you will love. Offering a wide range of facilities and activities on board, Oosterdam will keep you and other members of your travelling party more than satisfactorily occupied during enchanting days at sea.
  • Library
  • Greenhouse Spa & Salon
  • Wi-Fi
  • Sport
  • Three pools (indoor and outdoor)
  • Whirlpools
  • Jacuzzis
  • Nursery
  • Kids Club
  • Shops
  • Laundry
 

 

Entertainment

Whatever your idea of great entertainment might be, the team behind Oosterdam has covered all the possibilities that are likely to come to your mind – and then a few more. With a wide variety of enthralling entertainment options on board Oosterdam, guests can enjoy live music, dance performances, and comedy shows, to cite just a few of the highlights.
  • Casino
  • Theatre
  • Night Club

 

 

 

TERMS & CONDITIONS: *Conditions Apply. All pricing is per person twin share, quoted in Australian dollars and is correct as at 23 April 2025. Pricing is inclusive of all cruise, air & hotel taxes, fees, port expenses which are subject to change with surcharges or currency fluctuation. *Attendance to Anzac Day Dawn Service at Gallipoli will be subject to confirmation from Australian Department of Veterans’ Affair. All attendees must register for individual attendance pass at dva.gov.au when dates are open. Further information will be provided. Named hotels are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Alternative hotels will always be of equal or higher star rating.  Lead prices are based on a Inside Cabin. Airfare is subject to availability at the time of booking and may require immediate payment and ticketing. Flight times and the daily order of sightseeing are subject to change. Transfer times are approximate and subject to local, traffic conditions at the time of travel. All tour & flight times will be advised in your detailed itinerary & please contact us for other departure cities &/or Business Class Upgrades. Offer is subject to limited availability and other cruise accommodation categories may be available. Please check all reservation information with your travel consultant prior to booking. Meals are included as stated as per itinerary. Package prices are subject to change due to being sold out, changed or withdrawn without prior notice. For full terms and conditions & visa requirements, please speak to your travel consultant.  Supplier:  IMH (EUR2287)

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