17-Day Grand Turkey Tour – A Journey Through History, Nature & Culture
Experience the best of Western Turkey on this 17-day journey, combining guided tours with free time to explore at your own pace. This tour takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities, offering a deep dive into Turkey’s rich history and culture.
Your adventure begins in the charming harbor town of Fethiye, where you’ll set sail on a scenic cruise along the Turkish coast, stopping at tranquil bays and picturesque villages before arriving in Olympos. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the ruins of the ancient Lycian city, nestled amid lush forests.
Next, journey to Pamukkale, where the striking white travertine terraces create a breathtaking natural wonder. Relax in the thermal waters before visiting the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis, once a thriving Greco-Roman spa town.
The historic Ephesus region welcomes you next, offering a glimpse into traditional Turkish life alongside a tour of one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk the same streets that once bustled with thousands of people, marveling at the grand structures that remain.
The adventure continues in Cappadocia, a land of otherworldly landscapes and hidden gems. Explore its less-traveled paths on an early morning walking tour, then witness the region’s contrasts through the North and South Cappadocia Tours, each showcasing different, equally breathtaking aspects of the area.
Finally, your journey concludes in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where you’ll immerse yourself in a fusion of history, culture, and architecture. From ancient landmarks to bustling bazaars, Istanbul’s rich past—shaped by countless civilizations—comes to life on guided tours that highlight its most iconic sights.
This grand tour offers the perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion, ensuring you experience the very best of Turkey.
Itinerary
🛬 Pick-up & Transfer to Your Accommodation
✔ Private transfer from:
- Fethiye Harbour (if arriving from a cruise or Blue Cruise)
- Dalaman Airport (if arriving by flight)
- Fethiye Bus Station (if traveling by bus)
🏨 Check-in at your hotel in Fethiye
✔ Relax and unwind after your journey.
✔ Take a leisurely stroll along Fethiye Marina or explore Paspatur (Old Town).
✔ Optional: Sunset at Calis Beach, a great spot to enjoy your first Turkish sunset.
🏨 Overnight in Fethiye
Today, you have a free day to enjoy Fethiye’s stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and historical sites. Whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Fethiye has something for everyone.
🌊 Suggested Activities for Your Free Day
🚙 Adventure & Outdoor Exploration
✔ Jeep Safari – An off-road adventure through Saklıkent Gorge, Tlos, and mud baths.
✔ Paragliding from Babadag Mountain – One of the world’s best paragliding spots, offering breathtaking aerial views over Oludeniz & the Blue Lagoon.
✔ Boat Trip to Butterfly Valley & St. Nicholas Island – A relaxing day on the water visiting hidden beaches and stunning coves.
🏛 Cultural & Historical Sites
✔ Kayakoy Ghost Town – A hauntingly beautiful abandoned Greek village with stone houses and churches.
✔ Lycian Rock Tombs – Climb up to the Tombs of Amyntas for a panoramic view of Fethiye.
✔ Fethiye Museum – Learn about Lycian artifacts and history.
🏝 Relaxation & Leisure
✔ Oludeniz Beach & the Blue Lagoon – One of Turkey’s most iconic beaches.
✔ Calis Beach – Perfect for a sunset stroll or beachside dining.
✔ Mud Baths at Dalyan – A rejuvenating spa-like experience in natural healing mud pools.
🍽 Food & Evening Experience
✔ Fethiye Fish Market – Choose fresh seafood and have it cooked at a local restaurant.
✔ Dine at a waterfront restaurant in the Fethiye Marina.
✔ Try a traditional Turkish meze platter with grilled kebabs or seafood.
🏨 Overnight in Fethiye
Today, you travel from Fethiye to Demre to board your traditional Turkish gulet for an unforgettable 4-day cruise along the Turquoise Coast. Your adventure begins with the sunken city of Kekova and Simena Castle, offering breathtaking views and rich history.
🚌 Morning: Transfer from Fethiye to Demre
🚖 Early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Fethiye.
🚌 Local bus journey to Demre (approx. 3 hours).
🛳 Meet your crew & board your traditional gulet.
✔ Warm welcome from the crew and tour briefing.
✔ Settle into your private cabin and relax on deck.
✔ Lunch onboard before setting sail.
🚢 Gulet Cruise – Exploring the Sunken City & Simena Castle
🏝 Sailing past the Sunken City of Kekova
✔ Once an ancient Lycian town, partially submerged due to a powerful earthquake centuries ago.
✔ Observe stone structures, staircases, and old walls disappearing into the deep blue sea.
✔ Swimming & snorkeling not permitted here to protect the archaeological site.
🏛 Exploring Kekova & Simena Castle
✔ Dock on the opposite side of the island and go ashore.
✔ Walk among Lycian rock tombs, carved into the mountainside.
✔ Optional: Climb to Simena Castle, offering stunning panoramic views of the turquoise coastline.
🌅 Evening: Overnight on the Gulet – Sleeping Under the Stars
🍽 Dinner onboard, freshly prepared by the crew.
🌌 Relax on the deck, enjoying the calm of the open sea.
✨ Overnight stay in a secluded bay, gently rocked by the waves.
🏨 Overnight Cabin Stay on the Gulet
Today, your gulet cruise continues along the stunning Lycian coastline, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and shopping in the charming seaside town of Kas.
🌅 Morning: Breakfast & Swimming Stops
🍽 Breakfast onboard while anchored in a secluded bay, enjoying the peaceful morning sea.
🏊 Swim in crystal-clear waters at a hidden cove before setting sail.
🏝 Midday: Arrival in Kas – A Charming Seaside Town
✔ Dock in Kas, a picturesque fishing village with cobblestone streets and bougainvillea-covered houses.
✔ Explore at your own pace – wander through the lively markets, art galleries, and historical sites.
✔ Shop for handmade jewelry, as Kas is famous for its beautiful silver and gemstone pieces.
✔ Visit the Lycian Rock Tombs, carved into the cliffs above the town.
✔ Relax at a café overlooking the sea, sipping traditional Turkish tea or fresh pomegranate juice.
🌊 Afternoon: Swimming at Aquarium Bay
🚢 Set sail from Kas, heading toward Aquarium Bay, a stunning snorkeling spot.
🏊 Enjoy crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling or paddleboarding.
🐠 Spot colorful fish and marine life in the sheltered bay.
🌅 Evening: Overnight on the Gulet – Under the Stars
🍽 Dinner onboard, freshly prepared by the crew.
🎶 Relax on deck, enjoying the calm of the open sea.
🌌 Sleep under the stars in a tranquil bay.
🏨 Overnight Cabin Stay on the Gulet
Today, your gulet cruise takes you to some of the most breathtaking spots along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, including the hidden paradise of Butterfly Valley, the world-famous Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz, and the historic island of St. Nicholas.
🌅 Morning: Butterfly Valley – A Natural Wonder
🚢 Early morning departure from Aquarium Bay.
🦋 Arrive at Butterfly Valley, a protected nature reserve home to over 100 species of butterflies (seasonal).
✔ Walk through lush greenery and waterfalls, nestled between towering cliffs.
✔ Optional hike to the waterfall for breathtaking views.
✔ Swim in the secluded bay, surrounded by pristine white sands and turquoise waters.
🏖 Midday: Oludeniz & The Blue Lagoon
🚢 Set sail to Oludeniz, Turkey’s most iconic beach.
✔ Swim in the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.
✔ Optional: Try paragliding from Babadag Mountain, one of the best paragliding spots in the world.
✔ Relax on the golden sands of Oludeniz Beach, with breathtaking mountain views.
🌅 Evening: St. Nicholas Island – The Sunset Spot of the Cruise
🚢 Anchor at St. Nicholas Island, an ancient Byzantine settlement.
🏛 Explore the ruins of churches and monasteries, dating back to the 4th century.
🌄 Hike to the top of the island for one of the most spectacular sunsets on the Mediterranean.
🍽 Dinner onboard, with a peaceful view over the sea.
✨ Overnight stay on the gulet, under the stars.
🏨 Overnight Cabin Stay on the Gulet
Today, you disembark from your gulet in Fethiye and have a free day to explore this beautiful coastal town at your own pace.
🚢 Morning: Farewell to Your Gulet
🛳 Arrive back at Fethiye Harbour around noon.
👋 Say goodbye to your crew & fellow travelers.
🎒 Check-in at your hotel & refresh after your cruise.
🏖 Afternoon: Free Time to Explore Fethiye
🌅 Relax & Unwind
✔ Visit Calis Beach for a sunset walk or a swim.
✔ Stroll along the Fethiye Marina and enjoy sea views.
✔ Relax in a Turkish Hammam for a traditional steam bath & massage experience.
🏛 Explore the History & Culture of Fethiye
✔ Climb to the Amyntas Rock Tombs for stunning panoramic views of the city.
✔ Wander through Paspatur (Old Town) for local shops, Turkish carpets, and handmade souvenirs.
✔ Visit the Fethiye Museum, showcasing Lycian artifacts and ancient history.
🏄♂️ Optional Adventure Activities
✔ Paragliding (if you missed it in Ölüdeniz!).
✔ Scuba diving or snorkeling in Fethiye’s turquoise waters.
✔ Boat trip to the 12 Islands (if you want more time at sea!).
🍽 Evening: Local Food & Dining Experience
✔ Fethiye Fish Market – Choose your own fresh seafood and have it cooked at a local restaurant.
✔ Dinner by the Marina, with a view of the boats and sunset.
✔ Try a traditional Turkish meze platter with grilled kebabs or seafood.
🏨 Overnight Stay in Fethiye
Today, you will travel from Fethiye to Pamukkale, where you will explore the stunning white travertine terraces and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, before continuing your journey to Ephesus.
🚌 Morning: Transfer from Fethiye to Pamukkale
🚖 Early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Fethiye.
🚌 Scenic bus journey to Pamukkale (approx. 4-5 hours) via Denizli.
🕛 Arrive in Pamukkale & meet your tour guide and bus.
🏞️ Pamukkale Tour – The Cotton Castle & Hierapolis
🍽 Lunch upon arrival, enjoying local Turkish cuisine.
🌿 Explore the White Travertine Terraces
✔ Walk barefoot on the stunning white calcium terraces, created by natural thermal waters.
✔ Take in panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
✔ Optional: Relax in the warm natural pools of the terraces.
🏛 Discover Hierapolis – The Ancient Roman Spa City
✔ Visit the Grand Theatre, which offers spectacular views.
✔ Explore the Necropolis, one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Turkey.
✔ Walk through the Ancient Roman Baths & Thermal Springs, once used for healing rituals.
🛁 Optional: Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool
✔ A warm thermal pool filled with submerged ancient Roman columns.
🚗 Evening: Transfer to Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)
🚖 After your Pamukkale and Hierapolis tour, you will continue your journey to Ephesus.
🏨 Overnight Stay in Selcuk or Kusadasi
✔ Check into your hotel and relax, preparing for tomorrow’s Ephesus Full-Day Tour.
Today, you will explore one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world—Ephesus, once a major Roman capital and trading hub. You’ll also visit the House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site, and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
🕘 Morning Pick-up & Start of the Tour
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi.
👨🏫 Meet your expert guide and begin your full-day guided tour of Ephesus.
🏛 Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Ephesus was once the capital of Roman Asia Minor and one of the most powerful trading cities of the ancient world. Over 200,000 people lived here at its peak. Today, it remains one of Turkey’s most iconic archaeological sites.
📍 Highlights of Ephesus:
✔ Harbor Street & Marble Street – Walk along the main roads of Ephesus, lined with ancient ruins.
✔ Library of Celsus – One of the most magnificent buildings of the ancient world, once holding 12,000 scrolls.
✔ Grand Theatre of Ephesus – A massive 25,000-seat amphitheater, used for performances, political speeches, and gladiator battles.
✔ Temple of Hadrian – Dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, with well-preserved carvings and inscriptions.
✔ Public Bathhouses & Latrines – See how Romans engineered complex water and drainage systems.
✔ The Brothel & Love House – Learn about ancient Roman social life, including the hidden tunnel to the library!
🙏 House of the Virgin Mary
📍 Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, one of Christianity’s holiest sites.
✔ Believed to be Mary’s final residence, where she spent her last years.
✔ Recognized by the Vatican as a sacred pilgrimage site, visited by several Popes.
✔ A simple stone cottage with a prayer area and a peaceful setting.
✔ Drink from the Holy Spring, believed to have healing properties.
✔ Leave a wish or prayer on the wishing wall, a long-standing tradition for visitors.
🏛 The Temple of Artemis – A Wonder of the Ancient World
📍 Explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
✔ Though only one column remains, the site still offers an impressive look into ancient Greek religious devotion.
✔ Learn about how this once-magnificent temple attracted pilgrims from all over the ancient world.
🚗 Evening: Return to Your Hotel
🚖 Transfer back to your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi.
🏨 Overnight in Ephesus region.
Today, you have a relaxing free day to explore Ephesus and the surrounding region before taking an overnight bus to Cappadocia. Whether you prefer shopping, wine tasting, or a water-filled adventure, there are plenty of options to enjoy.
🏝 Suggested Activities for Your Free Day
🌊 Beach & Shopping in Kusadasi
✔ Take a local bus to Kuşadası, a lively seaside town known for its beaches and markets.
✔ Relax on the beach or explore the marina.
✔ Visit the Grand Bazaar, where you can bargain for Turkish carpets, leather goods, spices, and souvenirs.
✔ Try some delicious seafood at a harborfront restaurant.
🍷 Visit the Wine Village of Sirince
✔ A picturesque Greek-style village, known for its fruit wines and organic produce.
✔ Wander through stone-paved streets, whitewashed houses, and cozy cafés.
✔ Taste locally made wines, including pomegranate, peach, and cherry varieties.
✔ Explore traditional craft shops, selling handmade soaps, olive oil, and textiles.
💦 Water Park Fun
✔ If you’re looking for adventure and excitement, visit one of Turkey’s largest water parks.
✔ Choose between:
Adaland – Offers thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and a dolphin park.
Aqua Fantasy – A wave pool, water roller coasters, and family-friendly slides.
🏛 Explore More of Ephesus (if you missed anything on the tour!)
✔ Revisit the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and Temple of Artemis.
✔ Visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from the ancient city.
🍽 Evening: Dinner & Prepare for Overnight Bus
✔ Enjoy a leisurely dinner in Selcuk or Kusadasi, trying traditional Turkish mezes, kebabs, or seafood.
✔ Freshen up and get ready for your overnight journey.
🚌 Late Evening: Overnight Bus to Goreme, Cappadocia
🚖 Transfer to the bus station.
🚌 Board your overnight bus to Cappadocia (approx. 10-11 hours).
💤 Sleep onboard as you journey towards one of Turkey’s most magical destinations.
🏨 Overnight on the Bus to Cappadocia
This morning, you arrive in Goreme, Cappadocia, a landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and ancient rock formations. After your long journey, you can choose to rest and relax or take part in exciting optional activities.
🚌 Morning: Arrival & Hotel Transfer
✔ A crew member will assist you in finding your hotel upon arrival.
✔ Check-in at your cave hotel or boutique accommodation in Göreme.
✔ Relax for the day or catch up on sleep after the overnight bus journey.
🏜 Optional Afternoon Activity: ATV (Quad Bike) Safari
📍 Quad Safari Through Cappadocia’s Valleys
✔ Time: Starts around 17:00 PM, perfect for a sunset ride.
✔ Ride through unique landscapes, passing fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and volcanic rock formations.
✔ Explore famous valleys like Sword Valley, Love Valley, and Red Valley.
✔ Perfect for adventurous travelers who want a thrilling off-road experience.
🏍 No previous experience required! You will receive a safety briefing and a guide will accompany you.
🍽 Evening: Optional Turkish Night Show & Dinner
📍 Experience a Traditional Turkish Night in a Cappadocian Cave Restaurant
✔ Pick-up from your hotel in the evening.
✔ Enjoy a delicious dinner, featuring mezes, grilled meats, and unlimited drinks (soft drinks, wine, or Raki).
✔ Witness traditional Turkish dances, including the famous Whirling Dervishes and belly dancing.
✔ Experience folk music, live performances, and cultural storytelling.
🏨 Overnight in Cappadocia
Rest and prepare for tomorrow’s exciting adventures, including a North Cappadocia Tour or an optional hot air balloon flight!
Today is an unforgettable day in Cappadocia, with the option to soar over its stunning landscapes in a hot air balloon before setting off on a full-day guided tour of South Cappadocia.
🌅 Early Morning: Optional Hot Air Balloon Flight
📍 Experience Cappadocia from the Sky at Sunrise
✔ Pick-up from your hotel before sunrise.
✔ Watch the preparation of the balloons while enjoying a light breakfast with hot drinks.
✔ Take off for a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations.
✔ Floating at different altitudes, you’ll witness an unparalleled sunrise from the sky.
✔ Champagne toast & flight certificate upon landing.
🛑 Note: Balloon flights are subject to weather conditions and must be booked in advance due to high demand.
🍽 Breakfast at Your Hotel
After the balloon flight, return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast before setting off on your South Cappadocia tour.
🏜 Full-Day South Cappadocia Tour
🚐 Pick-up from your hotel after breakfast.
👨🏫 Meet your expert local guide and begin the tour.
📍 Highlights of the South Cappadocia Tour:
🏰 Underground City – Descend into a multi-level ancient city used by early Christians to hide from invaders.
✔ Explore the maze-like tunnels, kitchens, stables, and churches carved into the rock.
✔ Learn how thousands of people once lived underground for months at a time.
📍 Uchisar Castle Panorama
✔ Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Cappadocia from the highest rock fortress in the region.
✔ A fantastic photo opportunity with a view of Göreme and its valleys.
📍 Meskendir Valley Hike
✔ A peaceful walk through Cappadocia’s stunning red rock canyons.
✔ Pass by ancient cave dwellings, rock-cut churches, and lush scenery.
📍 Pigeon Valley
✔ See thousands of carved pigeon houses built into the rock formations.
✔ Learn about the importance of pigeons in Cappadocian history and agriculture.
📍 Love Valley
✔ A famous valley known for its unique rock formations, shaped naturally over thousands of years.
✔ Take stunning photos of the gigantic, towering fairy chimneys.
📍 Cavusin Village
✔ Visit a traditional cave village, home to rock-cut churches and dwellings.
✔ Walk through ancient streets and admire Byzantine frescoes inside old cave churches.
🚖 Evening: Return to Your Hotel & Overnight in Cappadocia
✔ Drop-off at your hotel in the evening.
✔ Relax and unwind after a full day of exploration and adventure.
🏨 Overnight in Cappadocia
Today, you will explore the northern region of Cappadocia, visiting ancient settlements, unique rock formations, and cultural heritage sites. This is your last chance to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia before heading to Istanbul on an overnight bus.
🕘 Morning Pick-up & Start of the North Cappadocia Tour
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in Cappadocia.
👨🏫 Meet your local guide and begin the day’s exploration.
🏜 Highlights of the North Cappadocia Tour
📍 Goreme Open-Air Museum
✔ A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to rock-cut churches with well-preserved frescoes.
✔ Learn about early Christian communities who used these caves for worship and refuge.
✔ Visit the Chapel of St. Basil, the Apple Church, and the Dark Church.
📍 Pasabag (Monks Valley)
✔ See mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, once inhabited by monks seeking solitude.
✔ Learn about the hermit lifestyle of Byzantine-era monks.
✔ Fantastic photo opportunities with unique rock formations.
📍 Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
✔ Explore a surreal landscape filled with rock formations shaped like animals.
✔ Spot a camel, dolphins, and a giant praying hand among the formations.
✔ A great place for imaginative photography and creative sightseeing.
📍 Three Beauties of Urgup
✔ One of the most famous postcard views of Cappadocia, featuring three towering rock formations.
✔ Legend says they represent a father, mother, and child.
✔ An iconic spot for panoramic photos over the valleys.
📍 Avanos – The Handicraft & Pottery Hub of Cappadocia
✔ A charming town famous for pottery-making since the Hittite era.
✔ Visit a traditional pottery workshop and watch artisans at work.
✔ Try your hand at making your own pottery on a spinning wheel (optional).
📍 Urgup & Local Wine Tasting (Optional)
✔ Visit Ürgüp’s local wineries and sample Cappadocia’s regional wines.
✔ Learn about the volcanic soil that creates unique flavors in the wine.
🍽 Lunch in a Local Cave Restaurant
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal in a cave restaurant, featuring local specialties like testi kebab (pottery kebab).
🚖 Evening: Transfer to Bus Station for Overnight Bus to Istanbul
🚖 Drop-off at the bus station in Goreme.
🚌 Overnight bus to Istanbul (approx. 10-11 hours).
💤 Sleep onboard as you journey towards Turkey’s largest city.
🏨 Overnight on the Bus to Istanbul
This morning, you arrive in Istanbul after your overnight bus journey. Today is a relaxing free day, allowing you to settle in, explore at your own pace, or get an early preview of Istanbul’s wonders before your full tours begin.
🚌 Morning: Arrival & Hotel Transfer
🚍 Arrive at Istanbul’s main bus station after your overnight journey.
🚖 Find your way to your accommodation (or ask for assistance if pre-arranged).
🏨 Check-in at your hotel (if early check-in is available) or store luggage at reception.
☕ Relax & refresh, grab a Turkish coffee or breakfast before exploring.
🌆 Suggested Activities for Your Free Day
🏛 Get a Sneak Peek of Historical Landmarks (Optional Self-Guided Walk)
✔ Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque – Admire their exteriors and get a feel for the Old City atmosphere.
✔ Topkapi Palace Gardens – Walk through Gülhane Park, a peaceful area once part of the royal palace grounds.
✔ Basilica Cistern (Optional) – Explore the underground water reservoir with stunning columns and Medusa heads.
🛍 Shopping & Local Experiences
✔ Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s largest covered markets, filled with jewelry, carpets, spices, and souvenirs.
✔ Spice Bazaar – Aromatic teas, Turkish delight, saffron, and exotic spices make for great gifts.
✔ Istiklal Street & Taksim Square – A lively, modern area with boutique shops, bookstores, and street performers.
🌅 Enjoy Istanbul’s Waterfront & Relaxing Spots
✔ Galata Bridge & Karakoy – Grab a Turkish tea with views of the Bosphorus and passing ferries.
✔ Ortakoy – A scenic neighborhood with cafés, a beautiful mosque, and Bosphorus views.
✔ Sunset at Maiden’s Tower (Optional Boat Ride) – One of Istanbul’s most romantic views on the Bosphorus.
🍽 Evening: Try Authentic Turkish Cuisine
✔ Dinner in Sultanahmet – Enjoy Ottoman-style kebabs, mezes, and desserts.
✔ Bosphorus-side dining in Karakoy – Seafood lovers can try a grilled fish sandwich.
✔ Taksim Nightlife (Optional) – If you want to experience Istanbul’s vibrant bars and rooftop lounges, head to Beyoglu.
🏨 Overnight in Istanbul
Today, you will take a deeply moving journey to the Gallipoli Peninsula, a site of WWI battles and remembrance, before returning to Istanbul in the evening.
🚌 Morning: Pick-up & Drive to Gallipoli
🚖 Early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Istanbul.
🚌 Scenic drive to Gallipoli (approx. 4.5-5 hours).
🍽 Lunch upon arrival at a local restaurant.
🏛 Full-Day Guided Gallipoli Battlefield Tour
📍 Key Sites You’ll Visit:
✔ ANZAC Cove – The landing site of Australian and New Zealand forces in April 1915.
✔ Lone Pine Cemetery & Memorial – Honoring the Australian troops who fought here.
✔ Chunuk Bair Memorial – Dedicated to the New Zealand forces who made a heroic stand.
✔ The Turkish Martyrs’ Memorial – Commemorating the bravery of the Ottoman soldiers.
✔ Johnston’s Jolly Trenches – Walk through preserved trenches and tunnels, where the battles were fought.
✔ The Beach Cemetery – A peaceful yet somber resting place of many Allied soldiers.
✔ Gallipoli Memorial Museum – A collection of wartime artifacts, letters, and photographs, providing insight into the battle and its impact.
🌿 A Place of Reflection & Peace
✔ Learn about the failed Gallipoli Campaign, one of WWI’s most significant battles.
✔ Hear stories of bravery and tragedy from both Allied and Turkish perspectives.
✔ Understand how Gallipoli has become a place of unity and respect between former enemies.
🚖 Evening: Return to Istanbul
🚌 Depart from Gallipoli in the late afternoon.
🚖 Evening arrival back in Istanbul (approx. 21:00-22:00).
🏨 Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Today, you will step into the past and explore Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, from Ottoman palaces to Byzantine churches and bustling bazaars.
🕘 Morning Pick-up & Start of the Tour
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in centrally located areas:
✔ Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, or Taksim.
❗ If staying outside these areas, an extra charge may apply—please check with our team.
🕌 Blue Mosque – An Ottoman Architectural Marvel
✔ One of the most famous mosques in the world, featuring six minarets and stunning blue Iznik tiles.
✔ Learn about Islamic traditions and Ottoman architecture.
✔ Walk through the spacious courtyard and admire the grand domes.
❗ Note: Due to Friday prayers, entrance is limited during prayer times.
🏛 Hagia Sophia – A Journey Through Empires
✔ Originally built as a Byzantine church in 537 AD.
✔ Converted into a mosque in 1453 by Sultan Mehmed II.
✔ Now a historical monument, showcasing Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy.
✔ Stand beneath the massive dome, a feat of ancient engineering.
❗ Note: Hagia Sophia
🏰 Topkapi Palace – The Legacy of Ottoman Sultans
✔ Once the home of Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years.
✔ Visit the Imperial Treasury, displaying jewels, weapons, and religious relics.
✔ Walk through the Harem Section (optional entry), where Sultan’s wives, concubines, and royal family lived.
✔ Enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus from the palace courtyards.
❗ Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
🛍 Grand Bazaar – A Shopping Wonderland
✔ One of the largest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops.
✔ Wander through maze-like alleys filled with Turkish carpets, gold jewelry, and antiques.
✔ Experience the art of Turkish bargaining with local merchants.
❗ Note: Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
🌿 Optional: Visit the Spice Bazaar (Free Time)
✔ Walk through the Spice Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s oldest marketplaces.
✔ Immerse yourself in aromatic scents of Turkish tea, saffron, and spices.
✔ Sample Turkish delight, dried fruits, and nuts.
✔ Pick up authentic Turkish coffee and local sweets.
📍 This visit is not part of the guided tour, but you will have free time to explore before returning to your hotel.
🚖 Evening Drop-off & Overnight in Istanbul
🚗 Return to your hotel in the evening after a full day of sightseeing.
🏨 Overnight in Istanbul.
Today, experience Istanbul from both land and sea, with a Bosphorus cruise showcasing the city’s stunning palaces, fortresses, and bridges, followed by panoramic views from Pierre Loti Hill.
🏰 Dolmabahçe Palace – The Last Residence of Ottoman Sultans
🕘 Morning Pick-up from Your Accommodation
🚖 Transfer to Dolmabahce Palace, the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire’s final years.
🏛 Inside Dolmabahce Palace
✔ Built between 1842 and 1853 in Neoclassical, Baroque, and Rococo styles.
✔ Home to six Ottoman Sultans and later Mustafa Kemal Atatürk during the early Republic period.
✔ Explore the opulent Crystal Staircase, the lavish Ballroom, and the Imperial Halls.
❗ Note: Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. If your tour falls on a Monday, it will start two hours later at 11:30 AM.
🚢 Bosphorus Cruise – Sailing Between Two Continents
Board a luxury boat for a Bosphorus cruise, where you’ll glide between Europe and Asia, witnessing Istanbul’s grand waterfront landmarks.
📍 Sites You’ll See Along the Way:
🗼 Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) – A legendary islet tower that has served as a lighthouse, hospital, and radio tower, now a restaurant and museum.
🏰 Walls of Constantinople – The fortified walls built to protect Byzantine Constantinople, breached only twice in 1,600 years.
🚢 Passing by Iconic Palaces & Mosques:
✔ Ciragan Palace – A former Sultan’s palace, now a luxurious hotel.
✔ Ortakoy Mosque – Famous for its pink mosaics and stunning Bosphorus backdrop.
✔ Beylerbeyi Palace – The summer residence of Ottoman Sultans, offering breathtaking views.
✔ Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge – One of Istanbul’s three main bridges connecting Europe & Asia.
✔ Rumeli Fortress – Built by Mehmed the Conqueror in 1452 before the fall of Constantinople.
🏛 Stop at Kucuksu Palace – A Hidden Ottoman Gem (1 Hour Visit)
During the cruise, you’ll disembark for a short visit to Kucuksu Palace, a small but exquisitely designed Ottoman hunting lodge.
✔ Built by Sultan Abdülmecid, Kucuksu means “small water”.
✔ A hidden gem of Ottoman architecture, with intricate carvings and elegant interiors.
🚍 Bus Tour & Panoramic View from Pierre Loti Hill
🚌 Bus Tour Through the Old City
After your cruise, switch to a guided bus tour, driving through Istanbul’s historic district and past the Old City Walls.
🌄 Pierre Loti Hill – A Stunning View of the Golden Horn
✔ Take a cable car ride up to Pierre Loti Hill, named after a French novelist who loved Istanbul.
✔ Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Istanbul & the Golden Horn.
✔ Try Turkish coffee at a café perched atop the hill.
🚠 Cable Car Descent – A scenic ride back down, offering more spectacular views of the city.
🚍 Drive Past the Ancient City Walls
✔ The Byzantine Walls, built to protect Constantinople, have stood for over 1,600 years.
✔ The bus tour continues through Sultanahmet, bringing the day to a relaxing end.
🚖 Evening Drop-off & Overnight in Istanbul
⏰ Return to your hotel between 17:00 – 18:00 PM.
🏨 Overnight Stay in Istanbul.
📌 Important Notes:
✔ Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays – On this day, the tour starts later at 11:30 AM.
✔ Dolmabahce Palace, Kucuksu Palace, and Pierre Loti Hill are the only stops visited on foot. All other landmarks will be seen from the boat or bus.
🚖 Private Transfer to Istanbul Airport
As your incredible 17-day journey through Turkey comes to an end, we provide a comfortable and hassle-free transfer to Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, based on your flight details.
✈️ Departure from Istanbul
Take one last moment to reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had—sailing the Turquoise Coast, walking through ancient ruins, exploring historic battlefields, and immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Istanbul.
💬 Need Assistance?
✔ If you require additional travel arrangements within Turkey, including:
✔ Domestic flights or transport
✔ Hotel bookings & accommodation
✔ Day trips or extended tours (Cappadocia, Troy, or Gallipoli)
✔ Local recommendations for dining & sightseeing
📞 Our team is happy to assist!
✨ Thank You for Exploring Turkey with Us!
We hope you had an unforgettable journey and look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures in Turkey.
Includes
- Accommodations
- Hotel transfers
- Entrance tickets
- City transfers
- Ferry Ticket
- Guided tours
Rates and Room Options
Rates are calculated per person based on shared accommodations in double, twin, or triple private rooms.
Steps to Inquire or Book:
Press “BOOK NOW” above to submit an inquiry or book your package tour. The package includes standard-range accommodations by default.
Once your inquiry or booking is completed, you can email us to request upgrades or adjustments, such as:
Upgrades to ‘Top End’ or ‘Premium’ accommodations
A single private room
Dorm rooms for budget travelers
For details on included accommodation options, visit the ‘Accommodation Options’ tab above.
Deposit Payment:
A 30%–40% deposit is required for most tours.
Some tours may require a higher deposit or full payment.
Balance Payment:
The remaining balance is due upon arrival in Turkey.
Luggage Allowance on Flights (if included in your tour):
Domestic flights in Turkey include a 15 kg baggage allowance per person.
If additional luggage allowance is needed, an extra charge may apply. Please contact us for details before booking your tour.
Standart
Fethiye :Fethiye Guesthouse, Dedeoglu Hotel, or similar
Ephesus :Ephesus Centrum, Ephesus Palace, or similar
Cappadocia :Dinler Hotel, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, or similar
Istanbul :Olimpiyat Hotel, Fehmi Bey Hotel, or similar
Top End
Fethiye :Marina Boutique Hotel, Orka Boutique Hotel, or similar
Ephesus :Hotel Carina, Celsus Boutique Hotel, or similar
Cappadocia :Uchisar Kaya Hotel, Ramada Hotel, or similar
Istanbul :Golden Royal Hotel, Walton Hotel Galata, or similar
Premium
Fethiye :Ece Saray Marina & Resort, Yacht Classic Hotel, or similar
Ephesus :Cella Boutique Hotel, Akanthus Hotel, or similar
Cappadocia :Kayakapi Premium Caves, DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, or similar
Istanbul :The Elysium Istanbul, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Sirkeci, or similar
Fethiye 3 Night
Ephesus 2 Night
Cappadocia 2 Night
Istanbul 4 Night