Timeless Türkiye: Anzac Day, Gallipoli & Grecian Odyssey

Your holiday begins as you fly from Australia to your destination.

İstanbul promises a living mosaic of cultures, evident in its diverse neighbourhoods and culinary delights. With its rich cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and lively markets, you’ll experience a fusion of old-world charm and contemporary allure.

Today, your guide will whisk you on a fascinating city tour. Visit the famous Blue Mosque, wander Hippodrome Square, relish a photo stop at the magnificent Hagia Sophia, and lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar.

Uncover the history of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring ancient ruins, legendary walls, and archaeological treasures. Wander the surrounding landscapes where myth and history intertwine, bringing the epic past vividly to life.

A day at leisure offers the opportunity to explore Çanakkale at your own pace – perhaps wandering the waterfront promenade, browsing local cafés, or relaxing in your hotel ahead of your early start tomorrow.

Rise before sunrise to attend the Dawn Service at Gallipoli. As first light breaks, reflect on the bravery and sacrifice commemorated here, before returning to Çanakkale for a restful hotel stay.

Leaving Çanakkale behind, soar through the skies on a cable car to the Acropolis of Pergamon before reaching Kuşadası. Perched on the Dardanelles Strait, it promises to be one of the highlights of your trip.

On your second day in Kuşadası, you’ll be treated to an escorted tour of Ephesus. Walk along its marble streets, admire the grand Library of Celsus, and imagine life in one of antiquity’s greatest cities before returning to your hotel.

Return to İstanbul and discover its culinary and artistic side. Taste freshly baked simit, browse contemporary galleries, and explore the historic spice markets. Pause at hidden courtyards and rooftop cafés, soaking in panoramic views of the city’s minarets.

Enjoy a free day exploring all Istanbul has to offer

Embark the newest addition to the Azamara fleet, Azamara Onward. Enjoy a cruising experience unlike any other on board this small ship, specifically built to reach remote destinations that larger ships cannot.

As the second-biggest city in Greece and the second-most important city of the Byzantine Empire, the word “second” is often used to describe Thessaloniki, but we’re here to tell you: Thessaloniki is anything but second-rate!

The energy in this ancient cultural capital is palpable—especially in the vibrant downtown that was rebuilt in a spectacular Byzantine style after a devastating fire in the early 1900s. And this second chance at urban planning resulted in a city built around Aristotelous Square, which acts as a gateway for the surrounding neighborhoods.

The mythical “City of the Argonauts”, Volos is a modern city in the heart of Greece. Dating back to the Neolithic age, this prominent port overlooking the Pagasetic Gulf was built on ancient cities, and is a place of immense natural beauty and cultural heritage. Stroll along the famous seaside promenade to watch the fishing boats and yachts. Fill your day with swimming or sailing at one of the many beaches. Visit one of the area’s many archaeological sites or discover the city’s classic architecture, neoclassical buildings, churches, monuments and museums: the Tsalapatas Brickworks Museum, Kitsos Makris Folklore Center at the Topali Mansion or the impressive Archaeological Museum. Reward your palate with delicious flavors at any number of tavernas or fresh food markets. The traditional picturesque villages of Mount Pelion are the perfect backdrop to what truly is one of Greece’s most alluring cities.

There is no missing the Monastery of St. John, a massive dark fortress atop a hill, standing out against the traditional white houses of the village of Hora that surround it. It was constructed in the late 11th century to honor St. John the Divine, who is said to have had his apocalyptic vision while in Patmos, leading him to write the Book of Revelation. The monastery is a warren of interconnecting courtyards, arcades, galleries, and roof terraces. There are lovely chapels, some with 12th century frescoes; the treasury exhibits an impressive array of art; and the library contains a wealth of historic texts.

Mykonos is living proof that picture postcard destinations do exist. Its many charms include its iconic windmills, fabulous beaches, and an irresistible traditional town with a maze of twisting streets and alleys originally designed to confuse marauding pirates. Dazzling sunlight reflects off of whitewashed houses and hundreds of small chapels. Other adornments include shaded courtyards and balconies lush with flowers, and a lively nightlife that some claim is the best in Europe. Nearby you can visit the uninhabited island of Delos, birthplace of Apollo, fittingly the god of sunlight, music and beauty.

One look at Monemvasia as you pull in to port and it’s easy to understand why locals nicknamed it The Rock. Shrouded by precipitous cliffs along the brilliant teal waters of the Myrtoan Sea, Monemvasia is a castle town suspended in history. Adding to the feeling that it comes from another time, Monemvasia is tethered to our world by a simple causeway.

Nafplio is a coastal city located in the Peloponnese in Greece that is the capital of the regional unit of Argolis and an important touristic destination.

Your holiday complete, today you’ll disembark your ship and head to the airport for your flight home.

Land back in Australia