ANZAC Day 2025

Join this unforgettable Istanbul and Gallipoli journey, which climaxes with the memorialization of the most sober and significant event—ANZAC Day 2025. This travel tour immerses you in the rich tapestry of Istanbul’s culture and vividly honors those who served at Gallipoli during the First World War.

Exploring Istanbul and Gallipoli: ANZAC Day 2025

Your adventure begins in Istanbul, a city that bridges two continents and blends diverse cultures and histories. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed and transferred to the Boutique Sirkeci Mansion Hotel, a charming establishment in the city’s heart. This evening, meet your guide and fellow travelers, setting the stage for the days ahead.

Start your exploration with a guided tour of Istanbul’s Old City. Marvel at the Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles and majestic domes. This architectural gem, built in the early 17th century, continues to be a functioning mosque and a significant place of worship for many. Just a short walk away, visit the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as both a cathedral and a mosque. Now a museum, it stands as a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural and religious heritage.

The Topkapi Palace, home to generations of sultans, offers a glimpse into the opulence of the Ottoman Empire. Wander through its courtyards and marvel at the exquisite collections of jewels, clothing, and religious relics. The palace’s harem section provides an intriguing look into the private lives of the sultans and their families. The Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine public life, is another must-see landmark. Here, chariot races and public events were held, and you can still see remnants of the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius.

In the afternoon, delve into military history at the Harbiye Military Museum, which provides fascinating insights into Turkey’s military past. This museum, housed in a former Ottoman military academy, showcases a vast collection of military artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and dioramas depicting significant battles. In the evening, immerse yourself in Turkish culture with an optional Folklore evening. This event features traditional music, dance, and cuisine, offering a vibrant and entertaining introduction to Turkey’s rich cultural traditions.

Gallipoli: A Journey Through History

Travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula, a place of profound historical significance. Here, the ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) troops landed during World War I, and the area is now a poignant memorial to those who fought and died. The Gallipoli Campaign was a crucial operation during the war, intended to secure the Dardanelles Strait and open a sea route to the Russian Empire. The campaign, however, turned into a grueling battle of attrition, with heavy casualties on both sides.

Visit the Turkish Memorial at Mehmetcik Abide, a tribute to the Turkish soldiers who lost their lives in the Gallipoli Campaign. The monument, standing majestically on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views of the Dardanelles and serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made. Next, visit Cape Helles, where the British memorial stands in honor of the Commonwealth soldiers who fought in the campaign. The site includes the V Beach Cemetery, where many of the fallen are buried. Walking among the graves, you can sense the weight of history and the deep respect for those who served. Enjoy a BBQ lunch, and a moment of camaraderie and reflection, before heading to the Dawn Service site.

ANZAC Day 2025: A Solemn Tribute

On ANZAC Day 2025, rise before dawn to attend the moving Dawn Service at Gallipoli. This ceremony, held in the early morning light, commemorates the courage and sacrifice of the ANZAC soldiers. The silence and solemnity of the service create a powerful and emotional atmosphere. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Gallipoli Peninsula and the serene waters of the Dardanelles, the service is a poignant reminder of the past and a tribute to the resilience and bravery of those who fought.

After the Dawn Service, visit the Chunuk Bair Memorial for the New Zealand Memorial Service, paying further tribute to those who served. Chunuk Bair was in a key position during the Gallipoli Campaign, and the memorial here honors the New Zealand soldiers who captured and held this strategic point. The service at Chunuk Bair is deeply moving, set against the backdrop of the rugged landscape and the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit.

Return to Istanbul for one last evening at the Boutique Sirkeci Mansion Hotel. Reflect on the incredible experiences and connections made throughout the tour. Stroll through the bustling streets of Istanbul, perhaps visiting a local café or market to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere one last time. After breakfast the next morning, bid farewell to your new friends and this remarkable city, carrying with you the memories of an extraordinary journey.