2-days Gallipoli Troy Pergamon Acropolis Tour From Istanbul To Kusadasi

What an amazing tour, our guides Cagri and Hassan were so knowledgeable and their explanations were so fun and easy to understand. They painted such a vivid picture and were so friendly and kind would recommend this tour to anyone!

The staff and guides of Crowded House tour guide were excellent, knowledgeable and informative. The vehicles and drivers were very good and we felt safe. I would recommend to use this organisation 👍.

This was a fabulous 2-day tour from Istanbul to Kusidasi via Gallipoli/Cannakali/Troy and Pergamon. Our guide, Cindy, was amazing. Her depth of knowledge was incredible. As and àussie and kiwi couple Gallipoli was a truly moving experience. Overnight accommodation in Cannakali was very comfortable. The Crowded House staff were extremely professional and helpful. On day 2, Cindy took us to Troy/Pergamon and on to Kusidasi. After a long drive, she went out of her way to find our accommodation and make sure we were settled. She is an exceptional guide, a lovely person, and such an asset to the tour company. We would highly recommend the tour.

We had the best 2 day tour with Ibrahim. Our first day through Gallipoli with a small group was well informed, and perfect to see the key points and learn more about the history of both sides and to see our History as Kiwi’s with grandparent who were there. Our second day it was just two of us with Ibrahim, and we had the absolute pleasure to spend the day with him, his knowledge was incredible, we throughly enjoyed all our chats throughout the long day. Ibrahim was a world of knowledge through Troy, Permagon, and with dinner suggestions. We had been recommended by two people to go with Crowded House and it exceeded our expectations. Thank you Ibrahim

Fantastic guide Broah on Gallipoli his knowledge understanding and ability to express the truth of the war was incredible

Perfectly timed itinerary. We were led by the very knowledgeable guide Ibrahim Haydaroglu who was a delight to spend two full days with. Local restaurants recommendations included at each stop which were great!

Crowdedhouse tours were amazing. So helpful and friendly and professional. The local guides were knowledgeable and interacted in ways that were interesting and fun. Burat was our guide at Gallipoli and he found the grave of a relative of 2 people on tour and some personal details like he died on the same date as our tour. We stayed in Canakkale over night, a lovely port town and enjoyed fresh fish for dinner. Charlie was our guide at Troy he was great too, as was our guide at Pergamon. The staff were always communicating about what was happening, what was coming up and how long things would take. We highly recommend this tour 🙂

Every detail of this trip was excellent. The communication to arrange tour by email made it easy to book. The transport by mini buses was very comfortable and created a fun & friendly enviroment with fellow passengers. Great quality accommodation. The standout for us was the knowledge of the guides. The tours were comprehensive and made so interesting by the facts and stories provided by the guides.

We travelled round Turkey for 2 weeks and had many different tour companies and guides. Crowded House definitely stood out from the crowd. They have great guides and knew the area well. The drivers were also very attentive. Overall they are the best tour guide company we have come across.

So grateful for the experience! Our guide Charlie & driver Josh were so friendly and informative... made it very special

Great experience - very nice guides, perfectly organized, superb places to visit. We spent four days with Crowded House and loved it ...

Immerse yourself in two days of history — the not-so-distant past in the trenches of Gallipoli and thousands of years ago in Troy and Pergamon. Burak of Crowded House was an outstanding guide with great knowledge and enthusiasm for his subjects. He kept us laughing with jokes, but then turned somber as the occasion demanded. The coaches were comfortable, the meals were good and you may even come home with a Turkish rug! I then used Selcuk as the departure point for a tour the next day to Ephesus before returning to Istanbul.

It was a long two days but well worth it. The very small group allowed for unrushed visits to the 3 sites. Cindy, our guide, was knowledgeable and friendly. Lots of time to hear the stories, take photos and chat. The carpet factory visit was a surprise and the high pressure sell left us uncomfortable. Overall a great way to get from Istanbul to Kusadasi.

Reliable and very organised tour company. This review however is focussed on the Gallipoli tour which was a highlight for us and we attribute this to our guide Hasan who was exceptional. So much senseless loss of life for Turks and allied forces, and he was mindful, respectful and shared great insights to this place and the courage of the soldiers. Shout out to our driver Ilyam as well.

Day 1 began with a journey from Istanbul to Gallipoli. The car was immaculate, convenient, and comfortable. After a five-hour drive with one break, we arrived in Eceabat for lunch, and then our tour commenced. Mr. Ibo is our tour guide who provided an in-depth explanation of the Gallipoli Campaign to everyone on the tour. I initially thought the first hour would feel like a serious World War I lecture, but his sense of humour made the details much more enjoyable. I truly appreciated that. Afterward, he guided us to the Lone Pine Australian Memorial, ANZAC Cove, Brighton Beach, Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial, and many more sites until the evening call. In the end, I was dropped off at the hotel in Cannakale, where the Hollywood Trojan Horse is located. Thank you very much to Mr. Ibo for his patient and clear educating about the Gallipoli Campaign, as well as his insightful perspective on the Dardanelles channel and Constantinople. On Day 2, we arrived at the Ancient City of Troy, where Mr. Charlie provided a clear explanation of the legendary Trojan Horse, as depicted by Homer in the Odyssey and Iliad. The Ancient City of Troy proved to be far more fascinating than I had anticipated. I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Charlie's statement that "Troy would not be interesting without a tour guide," as one would miss the nuances of its history and the differences between Troy I and Troy IX. Unfortunately, our time in Troy was limited, and we had to move on to our next destination, bidding farewell to Mr. Charlie as he headed to Pergamon. In the afternoon, we proceeded to Pergamon, but we made an unexpected stop that was not included in the itinerary. I must say I did not find it enjoyable, as we were compelled to visit the carpet house, where they anticipated us to view and possibly buy their carpets. I would prefer to spend more time in Troy or arrive in Pergamon earlier, as the hour or two we spend there feels wasted. This would allow me to satisfy my curiosity about the rich cultural landscape and the splendour of Roman and Byzantine history. Due to our delay at the carpet house, we arrived quite late in Kusadasi, missing the opportunity to enjoy the stunning sunset at Kusadasi Castle over the Icarian Sea. I would prefer to give an 5-star review rather than 4 stars if this trip had not been disrupted by that unfortunate event.

This was definitely a bucket list visit for us and Crowded House Tours did not disappoint! Burak’s historical knowledge was second only to his sense of humour and fun. We appreciated seeing ALL of the monuments and not just those dedicated to the Australians. The tour of Troy was also very interesting and capped off two and a half fantastic days. I highly recommend this tour.

I was really impressed with how well organized and how fast this company put together an itinerary. I contacted them last minute and they were still able to accommodate me. Not only the guide spoke english but the driver did so I never felt lost. Unfortunately certain tours have the mandatory 'carpet tour'. I did feel a bit rushed and did not get enough time at the site that I wanted to. Despite these, I definitely would consider some of the other packages that they offer since they are so well organized.

The guide was good and knowledgeable for the Gallipolli part however he would focus on one or maybe two tourists and basically giving his attention to them rather than the group as a whole. The next day we had a different guide for Troy and he was very good, knowledgeable & attentive to all on the group. We then changed buses and the driver drove to Permagon for a few hours where he suddenly stopped on the freeway/highway whereby the tour guide jumped onto the small bus. It was a rather dangerous manoeuvre putting us at risk if an accident if some kind and secondly we had no idea what was happening. We were then driven to a place that makes and sells rugs and we're shown a demonstration of rug making process. This was very good however was not stated in the itenary and which did take a lot if our time and then by the time we got to Pergamon we were rushed by the tour guide as we had to leave for Kusadasi. Again the tour guide was dropped off at Izmir in the middle of the Highway again putting everyone at risk of an accident.

Awesome outfit, our tour guide Burat was 11/10. He made trip even better. So informative and energetic, loved that were kiwis as well and we learnt so much. Food was on, being celiac I found this hard however for those that are on a normal Diet it’s fine. Great communication and loved the sights we visited. Transport was great, comfy air conditioned and awesome drivers. You guys are great!!….p.s crowded house area kiwi band not Australian lol

Start to finish, Crowded House Tours did a wonderful job of handling all of the logistics. Our guide, Çağrı, made the experience a memorable one with his storytelling and attention to detail. Pergamon and the visit to the Desen carpet weavers collective were my favorite parts of the tour. The vehicles were clean and well maintained and the drivers were diligent. Even though our tour was listed as ending in Kuşadası, the tour company was kind enough to drop us off at our hotel in İzmir. We don't usually do organized tours, but we had no regrets booking this one!

We absolutely cannot recommend this business highly enough. Previous to our trip we were in contact with Ramazan every step of the way. I would send and email in the afternoon/night and by the morning I had a response, every single time! We were given tour options, they booked our flights, transfers and accommodation. Our guides were next level, Fundat (ANZAC Dawn service), Ibrahim ANZAC tour and Charlie who took us to Troy and Pergamon Acropolis. Their knowledge of the history of the locations was fantastic. The price we were quoted in Australia for one person was the same as our family of 3 and it included so much more. Please, please if you have a real interest in attending the Dawn Service, a family connection or just want to see this area of the world you simply cannot go past Crowded House Tours!

Two fantastic days with our guide Ibrahim who was so knowledgeable and interesting. Both very different experiences and the Gallipoli day was the standout day, so very moving. Highly recommend

Great tour. Our guide Hassan was fantastic , very passionate about his subject and make the place come alive. He was also really helpful to my husband who had a really bad back after a skiing fall the week before and was finding it hard to walk. Hassan was so good helping him around so he did t miss out. We had a fabulous 2 days with Hassan.

Crowded House Tours was exceptional. We did the two day Gallipoli and Troy tour. Everything was so good we booked two more tours with them and a private car to Bodrum. The guides were highly informed the vans were clean and safe, the drivers were incredible and every lunch we had was delicious. We ate vegetarian food and it was never a problem. The organisation for all the different tours pick ups drop offs different language guides was like a well oiled machine. This company made our holiday wonderful. We never had to worry or miss anything. Value for money and highly recommend. Would use them again without hesitation.

All parts of this tour was terrific. Ibrahim showed us Troy and Pergamon. He had an extensive knowledge, understood our needs and kept us engaged on a very hot day! He is also great to chat with. Charlie took us around Gallipoli. He was able to answer many questions and had a meaningful way of telling stories from both ANZACs and the Turkish.

Thank you to all at Crowded House Tours. We did the Gallipoli, Troy and Pergamon tour over 2 days from Istanbul, ending in Selcuk. Communication from start to finish with this company was excellent. Charlie, our guide was informative, fun and helped make the last 2 days ones we will treasure. Thank you Charlie. The size of the groups were small, perfect. All our questions were answered, the tours were run so professionally. We have used this company before when travelling in Turkey and would highly recommend them. Thanks guys, your the best. If you are coming to this part of Turkey use this company and don't miss Pergamon, it's incredible.

We absolutely recommend this trip and company firstly communication was excellent we were always promptly picked up from everywhere hotel was very clean good service and our tour guide was very knowledgeable helpful delightful made the trip very enjoyable

The touring was great. Fantastic destinations with a very knowledgeable guide and punctual driver. Easy-going crew but you can tell they are a well-oiled operation. In fact, Ramazan (Crowded House’s manager) ended up helping us with not only Çanakkale tours, but also utilized his contacts to help us out in both Cappadocia and Istanbul. He provided a driver from the Istanbul airport and tracked our flight delays, so the driver was there waiting for us when we landed late. Ramazan was also very patient with all my questions about dates and times and in-country flights. He is awesome and is now a trusted friend. Crowded House executed everything perfectly (and at a very reasonable price).

Our entire tour was fabulous, the pick ups and transfers all worked without a hitch, the hotels were decent (one average one, but mostly great) and the food was organised well too. We met some great people and the sights were beyond wonderful. Ephesus and Pergamum were absolute highlights in terms of photography and ancient ruins, but Troy's tour guide (Mufasa) made that tour really memorable as he lives and breaths Troy. In saying that, our Ephesus tour guide was incredible also, allowed us to take photos without rushing and told some excellent stories. Gallipoli, as an Australian, was very impactful and I'm so glad we got to experience the whole space.

We enjoyed our tour very much. The company is very organized and on-time. For our tour we started from Kusadasi and ended in Istanbul. All the tour guides were very helpful and informative. We especially enjoyed Sukru’s vibrant personality and Hassan’s passion for history. I would definitely recommend them for future tours!

The knowledge of the guides for the different sites was excellent and engaging. The organisation for our three night tour could not have been more efficient. The hotels were all comfortable and welcoming and there were great restaurants to eat out at in the evenings. I think it was the confidence we had that the arrangements would flow so efficiently that made this experience so enjoyable. Crowded House also laid on our transfers from and to the airport and a great sundowner boat tour from Istanbul one evening.

Of course we all know about Gallipoli and Troy, however seeing it all in person was awesome....so much history. Both our tour guides were wonderful. They were knowledgable but what was great was that they told their stories with passion which made it that much more interesting. Ramazan the Manager from Crowded House Tours was also great. He assisted me and happily answered all my questions from beginning to end. Although it was only a short 2 day tour...the tour was amazing and stress free all the way.

We did the Troy tour in the afternoon after arriving from Istanbul. Was a veryfascinating tour. Next day a morning tour of the Cape Helles with only the 3 of us on the tour. Bulent bought the scene alive with all his knowledge. Lunch at Eceabat and an afternoon tour with others to Anzac cove and Lone Pine to name a few. Next day a private tour with our 3 back to Anzac but this time a more in depth look at the different battles and walk the rough terrain that the diggers did all those years ago. Climbed to Plugges plateau,Quinn’s Post and visited the site of the Nek battle. I have read a number of books on Gallipoli, but to visit the place and see what the troops had to put up with was fantastic. Bulent was full of knowledge and any questions we asked he had a complete answer for us. If you are planning a trip to the battlefields, make sure it’s with Crowded House tours and ask for Bulent or “Bullant” as he is known. Loved every minute.

Incredible tour of Gallipoli, Troy and Pergamon. Baruk and Salim are very knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides. Salim very fluent in Spanish. Got some new insights on an otherwise known context making it a very educational experience. Must do.

Really loved my 2 days on the Tour with Crowded House! The first tour started from Istanbul and we drove to the Gallipoli Peninsular with our guide Bulent. We drove around all the places of interest from the First World War which involved the Anzacs. Stopping at each and a really detailed explanation of what happened there, old pictures and stories. Bulent was a brilliant guide!!! I stayed the night in a hotel in Eceabat which was really lovely. I had free time to explore the town. The next morning I was escorted to the ferry across the road from the hotel, and on the other side a representative from Crowded House was waiting. I was then with a guide called Sukru all day for the Troy and Akropolis Tour. Ramazan who owns the company was with us all day, both guys were really good company, very informative and knowledgeable about the sights they took me to see. I had a great few days with Croweded house and would urge you to book their tours!! Enjoy!!!

We had a great trip from Istanbul to Gallipolli, Troy and Pergamon. Two long but very interesting days. The mini bus was comfortable and air conditioned. The guide was knowledgeable and did some hard driving for us. The Gallipolli beaches and cemeteries were poignant and moving but ultimately highly interesting. The visit to Troy was a dream of mine and though it bears no resemblance to the might city of Homer's epic poem, you can imagine a rich city state being located there. Pergamon is a proper hilltop city with an amazingly steep Greek theatre built on a cliffside. Fascinating history. We all really enjoyed our trip and the hotel at Cannakale was excellent even if we had trouble finding a decent restaurant. A lunch outside Pergamon in a carpet co-operative was very tasty and the look around the manufacturing was fun. A long drive home to Istanbul through Anatolia with all of us nodding off (except our guide/driver). The great thing was that we arrived in Istanbul to find little or no traffic. Very odd, but much welcomed. We would highly recommend the trip and the company sorted everything out perfectly.