Istanbul & Gallipoli

Take a wine-themed tour of Gallipoli, punctuated with visits to ancient historical sites, balancing fine wines with fine views.

This five-day itinerary begins with time to explore Istanbul's landmarks at your own pace, perhaps the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and venture through the whirlwind streets of the Grand Bazaar. Your journey to the Gallipoli peninsula continues with a guide, first for a wine tasting at the Barbare Vineyard and a stay at the Caeli Hotel. You’ll continue to the ancient city of Troy and explore Assos, including the Temple of Athena and Ayse’s winery V’Asbos in Paşaköy-Assos, ending with a trip to the seaside town of Ayvalik.

Twin Destinations

Itinerary overview

Days 1 to 3

Istanbul

You’ll have a few days to get to know Istanbul at your own pace. Perhaps you’ll begin by explorin...

Day 4

Gallipoli

You’ll leave Istanbul behind, heading for a wine tasting at Barbare Vineyard, a family-run winery...

Day 5

Assos & Ayvalik

Relax over breakfast of traditional Turkish and international dishes before a drive takes you ove...

Day 6

Istanbul

Explore the seaside town of Ayvalik, where you can try local delicacies like Gummy Ice Cream from...

Days 1 to 3

Istanbul

You’ll have a few days to get to know Istanbul at your own pace. Perhaps you’ll begin by exploring iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, each offering a glimpse into the city's fascinating past. Stroll through the bustling streets of the Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle for souvenirs and sip traditional Turkish coffee. For a serene escape, visit the tranquil gardens of the Sulaymaniyah Mosque, which provide panoramic city views. In the evening, indulge in a culinary adventure by sampling delectable Turkish cuisine at local restaurants and experience the lively atmosphere along the Bosporus waterfront.

Day 4

Gallipoli

You’ll leave Istanbul behind, heading for a wine tasting at Barbare Vineyard, a family-run winery in Tekirdağ in the Thrace region. The vineyard produces wines from various grapes, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sultaniye. The winery also makes a sweet dessert wine called Gazoz, made from the local grape variety of Boğazkere. You’ll have the chance to taste the wines and take a guided tour of the vineyard and winemaking facilities. Then, you'll hit the road on a journey to the Caeli Hotel, which will take under two hours. On arrival, you’ll be shown to your room with a balcony overlooking the vineyard and rolling hills. Later, you’ll immerse yourself in the fascinating winemaking world, learn about the intricate process behind producing exquisite wines, and test your tasting skills during a session where you will sample some of the finest selections.

Day 5

Assos & Ayvalik

Relax over breakfast of traditional Turkish and international dishes before a drive takes you over the Canakkale Bridge to the ancient city of Troy. Excavations reveal evidence of nine ancient cities, and the site offers insight into civilisations of the Bronze Age. Your drive continues to Assos, a picturesque coastal town in the Edremit Gulf of the Aegean Sea. It’s home to the ancient Temple of Athena and the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Assos, the birthplace of the philosopher Aristotle. Around lunchtime, you’ll visit Ayse’s winery V’Asbos in Paşaköy-Assos, a landmark in Turkey’s wine world on the hills of Mount Yoyu overlooking the Greek island Lesbos. Late afternoon, your trip continues to Ayvalik, a seaside town on the Aegean coast.

Day 6

Istanbul

Explore the seaside town of Ayvalik, where you can try local delicacies like Gummy Ice Cream from nearby Lesbos island and a selection of Cretan appetisers, Lor desserts, and Lor cookies before visiting Taksiyarhis church. This late 19th-century church served as the primary church of the Greek Orthodox community in Ayvalik and reflects the town's multicultural heritage. In the afternoon, your private van will take you back to Istanbul.

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