Sultan Explorer Tour: A Cultural Journey
Embark on an unforgettable 18-day journey through Turkey’s most historic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and coastal wonders.
Your adventure begins in the ancient city of Ephesus, where remarkably preserved ruins transport you back in time. Walk through this once-thriving metropolis, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis, and explore the iconic Library of Celsus.
Next, journey to Pamukkale, where you’ll marvel at the terraced mineral pools and explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a city famed for its thermal springs and Greco-Roman heritage.
From here, head to Fethiye, where a 4-day Blue Cruise awaits. Boarding a traditional gulet, you’ll sail along the breathtaking Turkish coast, stopping at secluded bays, charming harbor towns, and historic sites, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.
Following your cruise, arrive in Olympos, a place where history and nature merge. Here, explore ancient Lycian ruins nestled in a lush, coastal setting before continuing inland.
Your next stop is the magical region of Cappadocia, where you’ll explore fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and an ancient underground city. This otherworldly landscape offers an unforgettable experience, with its unique rock formations and centuries-old traditions.
Leaving Cappadocia, you’ll travel to Eceabat, the gateway to Gallipoli, where you’ll visit the memorial sites and battlegrounds that commemorate the lives lost in one of the most significant conflicts of World War I.
Finally, your journey concludes in Istanbul, where history, culture, and modern life intertwine. Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, bustling bazaars, and majestic mosques, uncovering the rich heritage of the Ottoman Empire and the civilizations that came before.
This 18-day grand tour is the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural discovery, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience through the heart of Turkey.
Itinerary
Welcome to Turkey!
Your 18-day adventure begins with your arrival in Turkey, where you’ll be greeted with a transfer service to your hotel in the Ephesus region (Selcuk or Kusadasi).
🚐 Transfer Services Available From:
✔️ Kusadasi Harbour (for those arriving by cruise or ferry).
✔️ Izmir Airport (ADB) (for international and domestic flights).
✔️ Local Bus Stations (Selcuk or Kusadasi) if arriving by bus.
Once you arrive at your hotel, take some time to relax, refresh, and explore your surroundings.
🌍 Optional Activities for Your First Day:
🏛️ Explore Selcuk’s Historic Landmarks – If you have time, visit the Basilica of St. John or take a walk through Selcuk Old Town.
🌊 Relax in Kusadasi – If staying in Kusadasi, enjoy a stroll along the marina, check out the seaside cafés, or unwind on the beach.
🍽️ Enjoy a Traditional Turkish Dinner – Try delicious local dishes like Izmir Kofte, Meze platters, or freshly grilled seafood.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi).
Today, step back in time as you explore the incredible ruins of Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world and a major center of the Roman Empire.
🏛️ Full-Day Ephesus Tour Highlights:
🕍 Ephesus Ancient City – Walk along the marble streets of this grand Roman metropolis, where over 200,000 people lived more than 3,000 years ago. Key sites include:
The Library of Celsus – One of the most iconic and beautiful ruins, once housing over 12,000 scrolls.
The Grand Theater – A massive amphitheater that once held 25,000 spectators.
The Temple of Hadrian – Dedicated to the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
The Agora, Odeon, and Roman Baths – Offering a glimpse into daily life in ancient Ephesus.
🏡 House of the Virgin Mary – A significant Christian pilgrimage site, believed to be where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years.
🏺 The Temple of Artemis – Visit the ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once an enormous temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi).
Today is a free day to continue exploring the Ephesus region, offering a variety of historical, cultural, and fun activities. Whether you’re interested in shopping, wine tasting, or a relaxing beach day, there’s something for everyone!
🌍 Suggested Activities for Your Free Day
🛍️ Shopping in Kusadasi – Take a local bus to Kusadasi, a lively coastal town famous for its:
Bazaars filled with “genuine fake” designer goods.
Handmade leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, and Turkish souvenirs.
Bustling waterfront cafés where you can relax and enjoy a sea view.
🍷 Visit Sirince Wine Village – Just a short drive from Selcuk, this charming old Greek village is known for:
Fruity wines & homemade jams – Enjoy a tasting session!
Beautiful cobbled streets with local crafts, soaps, and olive oil products.
Traditional Greek-style houses and cozy cafés.
🏖️ Beach Day in Kusadasi – Relax on the golden sandy beaches of this vibrant coastal town.
💦 Visit One of Turkey’s Largest Water Parks – Looking for some excitement?
Adaland & Aqua Fantasy Water Park (both near Kuşadası) have thrilling waterslides, lazy rivers, and wave pools—a perfect day for fun in the sun.
🍽️ Evening Recommendation: Aegean Cuisine
After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delicious local dinner in Selcuk or Kusadasi. Try:
Fresh seafood by the marina in Kusadasi.
Turkish mezes & grilled meats at a traditional lokanta.
Authentic Aegean-style home cooking with olive oil-based dishes.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi).
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation in the Ephesus region (Selcuk or Kusadasi) and begin your journey towards Pamukkale, one of Turkey’s most stunning natural wonders.
🚌 Morning: Transfer to Pamukkale
Travel through scenic Turkish countryside, passing charming towns and landscapes.
Upon arrival in Pamukkale, enjoy a delicious lunch before exploring the site.
🌿 Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour Highlights:
🏛️ Hierapolis Ancient City – Walk through this Greco-Roman city, known for its massive amphitheater, necropolis, and Roman baths. This was a major healing center in ancient times, thanks to its mineral-rich thermal waters.
💦 Pamukkale Travertines (The Cotton Castle) – Stroll along the bright white terraces, formed by calcium-rich thermal waters cascading down the mountainside. You can even dip your feet into the warm natural pools.
🏺 Cleopatra’s Pool (Optional, Extra Cost) – Enjoy a relaxing swim in this thermal pool filled with ancient submerged ruins.
🚍 Afternoon: Transfer to Fethiye
After exploring Pamukkale, you will continue your journey towards Fethiye, a beautiful seaside town on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Fethiye
Today is a free day to explore Fethiye, one of Turkey’s most picturesque coastal towns. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or relaxation, there are plenty of options to make the most of your day.
🌿 Optional Activities in Fethiye:
🚙 Jeep Safari – Take an off-road adventure through the stunning countryside, visiting Saklıkent Gorge, Tlos, and Yakapark for a day of nature and exploration.
🪂 Paragliding Over Oludeniz – Experience one of the world’s most famous paragliding spots, soaring over the Blue Lagoon and taking in breathtaking aerial views.
💦 Mud Baths & Dalyan River – Enjoy a therapeutic mud bath, then take a boat trip down the Dalyan River, passing by the Lycian Rock Tombs and ending at Iztuzu Beach, famous for its sea turtles.
🏚️ Visit Kayakoy Ghost Town – Take a local bus or taxi to explore this abandoned Greek village, with its stone houses and churches telling a haunting yet fascinating story.
🏖️ Relax at Oludeniz Beach – Spend the day unwinding at one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, famous for its calm turquoise waters and white sandy shores.
🍽️ Evening Recommendation: Fethiye Fish Market
For a truly authentic local experience, head to the Fethiye Fish Market, where you can:
🐟 Pick your own fresh seafood, then have it cooked at a nearby restaurant.
🎶 Enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere while dining.
Alternatively, explore the seafront restaurants along Fethiye Marina, offering stunning views and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Fethiye
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Fethiye and transferred to the harbor, where you will check in to one of our Alaturca Gulets for an unforgettable 4-day cruise along the stunning Mediterranean coastline.
🚢 Day of the Gulet Cruise – Highlights & Activities
🦋 Butterfly Valley – Your first stop is the stunning Butterfly Valley, a hidden cove home to a variety of butterflies, lush greenery, and a cascading waterfall. You’ll have time to:
Swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Hike up to the small waterfall (if conditions allow).
Relax on the sandy beach, surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
🌊 Oludeniz & The Blue Lagoon – One of Turkey’s most famous and breathtaking beaches. Spend time here:
Swimming in the turquoise waters.
Taking in the majestic views of Babadag Mountain.
Optionally, try paragliding from the mountain for an epic aerial view! (Extra cost, but highly recommended!).
🌅 St. Nicholas Island – The Perfect Sunset Spot
Your gulet will anchor down at St. Nicholas Island for the night.
Climb to the top of the island, where you can explore ancient Byzantine ruins and take in one of the best sunsets of the entire cruise.
🌙 Overnight Stay on the Gulet – Cabin Cruise Experience
Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Spend the night rocked to sleep by the gentle waves, under a starry Mediterranean sky.
Wake up to another beautiful morning on the Mediterranean, with the sound of gentle waves and the fresh sea breeze. Today, after enjoying breakfast on board, your gulet will make several stops for swimming and relaxation before arriving in the picturesque town of Kas.
🚢 Gulet Cruise Highlights for the Day
🌊 Morning Swim & Breakfast Stop – Begin your day with a refreshing dip in the sea, followed by a traditional Turkish breakfast on deck.
🏝️ Midday Swimming & Lunch Stop – Along the way to Kas, the gulet will stop at secluded bays, where you can:
Swim in turquoise waters.
Snorkel to discover colorful marine life.
Relax under the Mediterranean sun.
🏡 Afternoon: Explore the Beautiful Town of Kas
Upon arriving in Kas, you’ll have free time to explore this charming seaside town known for its laid-back atmosphere, historic streets, and vibrant shopping scene.
💎 Shopping in Kas – Known as one of the best places in Turkey for jewelry, Kaş is home to many handcrafted silver and gemstone shops—perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
🌿 Stroll the Cobblestone Streets – Wander through narrow alleys lined with bougainvillea-covered houses, boutique stores, and cozy cafés.
☕ Relax in a Café by the Marina – Enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee or a refreshing Ayran (yogurt drink) while watching the boats bob in the harbor.
🏛️ Optional Activities in Kas:
Visit the Ancient Theatre – A well-preserved Lycian amphitheater with stunning sea views.
Scuba Diving or Snorkeling – Kas is a top destination for underwater adventures, with shipwrecks, caves, and vibrant marine life (extra cost).
🌙 Overnight Stay on the Gulet – Cabin Cruise
Return to the gulet for dinner, enjoying another peaceful night at sea.
Spend the evening stargazing from the deck, soaking in the peacefulness of the Mediterranean.
Another breathtaking day on the Mediterranean awaits as you sail past ancient ruins, sunken cities, and historic fortresses along Turkey’s stunning coastline.
🚢 Gulet Cruise Highlights for the Day
🏛️ Sailing Past the Sunken City of Kekova
This submerged Lycian city, once part of an ancient settlement, was lost to the sea after a powerful earthquake centuries ago.
The ruins of stone houses, staircases, and archways can still be seen beneath the crystal-clear waters.
Your gulet will slow down to allow for a closer look, giving you time to admire this UNESCO-protected site.
🏝️ Exploring Kekova Island & Simena Castle
The gulet will anchor down on the opposite side of Kekova, where you can step ashore and explore.
Optional Activities on Kekova Island:Walk among ancient Lycian tombs, carved directly into the hillside.
Climb to Simena Castle, a medieval fortress with breathtaking panoramic views over the coastline.
Explore the charming village of Kalekoy, a small, boat-access-only settlement filled with traditional houses and local cafés.
🌊 Swimming & Relaxation
After exploring Kekova, return to the gulet for some leisurely swimming and sunbathing before continuing the cruise.
🌙 Overnight Stay on the Gulet – Cabin Cruise
Enjoy another delicious onboard dinner while taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Spend the evening stargazing from the deck, soaking in the peacefulness of the Mediterranean.
This morning, you bid farewell to your gulet and set off for Olympos, a unique destination where history, nature, and beach life blend seamlessly.
🚌 Transfer from the Gulet to Olympos
After breakfast on board, disembark from your gulet.
Travel by bus to Olympos, located within a protected national park along the Mediterranean coast.
🏛️ Explore the Ancient Ruins of Olympos
Wander through the overgrown ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos, where moss-covered stone pathways, temples, and sarcophagi create an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere.
Visit the ancient theater, Byzantine church remains, and tombs, including the famous Sarcophagus of Captain Eudemos, an ancient ship captain.
🌊 Relax on Olympos Beach
After exploring the ruins, follow the path down to Olympos Beach, where the crystal-clear waters and soft pebbles make for a perfect place to swim and relax.
Optional water activities such as snorkeling or paddleboarding are available.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Olympos
Check into your treehouse-style accommodation or a charming guesthouse.
Spend the evening relaxing in Olympos’ laid-back bohemian atmosphere, with bonfires, hammocks, and beachside cafés.
Optionally, take a night tour to the Chimera (Yanartaş), where natural flames rise from the rocks, a phenomenon that has burned for thousands of years.
Today is your final day on the Mediterranean coast, giving you the perfect opportunity to relax, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy one last swim in the turquoise waters before heading inland to Cappadocia.
☀️ Free Day in Olympos – Suggested Activities
🏖️ Relax on Olympos Beach – Take in the peaceful surroundings and swim in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs.
🏛️ Explore More of Olympos Ruins – Wander through the ancient Lycian ruins of Olympos, which are hidden in the forest and filled with historical charm.
🔥 Visit the Eternal Flames of Chimera (Yanartaş) (optional morning or late afternoon tour) – Hike up to see the mystical flames that naturally rise from the rocks, a natural gas phenomenon that has burned for thousands of years.
🚣♂️ Optional Adventure Activities – If you’re looking for something more active:
Sea kayaking along the coast to discover hidden caves and coves.
Rock climbing on Olympos’ scenic cliffs for an adrenaline rush.
🚌 Evening Transfer to Antalya & Overnight Bus to Cappadocia
In the early evening, depart from Olympos to Antalya by shuttle bus.
In Antalya, board your overnight bus to Cappadocia (Göreme), a comfortable direct journey that will take you through the night.
🌙 Overnight Bus Journey to Cappadocia
After your overnight bus journey, you will arrive in Goreme, Cappadocia, a region famous for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and breathtaking landscapes.
🌄 Morning: Arrival & Rest
Upon arrival, a crew member will take you to your accommodation.
Take time to relax, freshen up, or catch up on sleep after your long journey.
You can spend the morning exploring Goreme town, visiting local cafés, or enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast.
🚜 Afternoon Optional Tour: ATV (Quad) Bike Safari (Starts at 17:00 PM)
For those looking for adventure, embark on an exciting quad bike safari through Cappadocia’s rugged valleys and rock formations.
Ride through surreal landscapes, including Sword Valley, Love Valley, and Rose Valley.
Experience breathtaking sunset views over the fairy chimneys.
The tour is fully guided, no prior experience needed.
💡 This is an optional tour and requires an additional cost.
💃 Evening Optional Tour: Turkish Night Show & Dinner
For an unforgettable cultural experience, enjoy a Turkish Night Show in a unique cave restaurant.
Pick-up from your accommodation in the evening.
Experience a lively night of traditional Turkish music and dance.
The show includes:Whirling Dervishes – A mesmerizing spiritual performance.
Belly Dancing – An energetic and colorful Middle Eastern dance.
A Traditional Turkish Wedding Performance – Witness cultural traditions firsthand.
Delicious Turkish dinner with unlimited drinks (wine, raki, and soft drinks included).
💡 This is an optional tour and requires an additional cost, but it’s highly recommended for a fun night out!
🌙 Overnight Stay in Cappadocia (Goreme or Nearby).
Today, immerse yourself in Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes, from the skies at sunrise to underground cities and panoramic valleys during the day.
🌅 Early Morning (Optional): Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, wake up before dawn and float above Cappadocia’s magical landscapes.
🎈 OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: CAPPADOCIA HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT
Pick-up before sunrise from your accommodation.
Enjoy a light breakfast while watching the balloons inflate.
Soar high above fairy chimneys, valleys, and ancient cave dwellings as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the landscape.
Flight duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Receive a flight certificate as a keepsake.
💡 This activity requires an additional cost and is subject to weather conditions. Highly recommended!
🚍 Full-Day South Cappadocia Tour
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation to explore some of Cappadocia’s hidden gems.
🌄 Highlights of the South Cappadocia Tour:
🏰 Underground City – Explore one of Cappadocia’s largest underground cities, used by early Christians as a safe haven from invaders. Walk through a maze of tunnels, living quarters, kitchens, and ventilation shafts.
🏞️ Meskendir Valley – Enjoy a peaceful nature walk through this scenic valley, lined with rock-cut churches and striking red rock formations.
📸 Uchisar Castle Panorama – Stop at the highest viewpoint in Cappadocia, offering stunning panoramic views of the region.
🕍 Pigeon Valley – Named for the thousands of ancient pigeon houses carved into the rock, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
🌿 Optional Stop: Love Valley or Red Valley – Depending on time, you may visit one of Cappadocia’s most famous valleys, known for its unique rock formations.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Cappadocia (Goreme or Nearby).
Today is your last day in Cappadocia, and you will have the chance to experience the stunning landscapes from both the sky and the ground before heading to Gallipoli on an overnight bus.
🌅 Early Morning (Optional): Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight
For an unforgettable experience, wake up before dawn and soar above Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes.
🎈 OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: CAPPADOCIA HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT
Pick-up from your accommodation before sunrise.
Enjoy a light breakfast while watching the balloons inflate.
Take flight and witness breathtaking views of the fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations as the sun rises.
Flight duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Receive a flight certificate as a keepsake.
💡 This experience requires an additional cost and is subject to weather conditions.
🚍 Full-Day North Cappadocia Tour
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation to explore some of the most historic and natural wonders of North Cappadocia.
🌄 Highlights of the North Cappadocia Tour:
📍 Goreme Open-Air Museum – A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with rock-cut churches and frescoes dating back to the 10th century.
🏜️ Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) – Home to rock formations shaped like animals and figures, creating a natural sculpture park.
🕌 Pasabag (Monks Valley) – Known for its mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, once used as dwellings by Christian monks.
🏡 Visit Small Villages & Local Handicrafts – Learn about traditional pottery making and carpet weaving, two of Cappadocia’s famous crafts.
🏞️ Esentepe Panorama Viewpoint – Capture a spectacular panoramic view of Göreme and the surrounding valleys.
🚌 Evening Transfer & Overnight Bus to Gallipoli
After the tour, enjoy a farewell dinner in Cappadocia (optional).
Transfer to the bus station for your overnight journey to Gallipoli.
The comfortable overnight bus will take you directly to Gallipoli, allowing you to rest before the next part of your journey.
🌙 Overnight Bus Journey to Gallipoli
After your overnight bus journey from Cappadocia, you will arrive in Gallipoli past noon, where you will be transferred to your accommodation for check-in.
🛏️ Afternoon: Rest & Relaxation
After checking in, take some time to rest and refresh from your long journey.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood or Turkish grilled dishes.
🌍 Free Time in Gallipoli – Suggested Activities
🏛️ Explore Eceabat Town – If you’re staying in Eceabat, the main hub for Gallipoli tours, take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the coastal views of the Dardanelles Strait.
🌅 Visit Kabatepe Museum (Optional) – If you’re interested in history, consider a visit to this small museum, which holds artifacts, photographs, and relics from the Gallipoli Campaign.
🏖️ Walk Along the Beach – Take a peaceful walk along the coastline, where you can reflect on the historic significance of this area.
🍽️ Enjoy a Local Dinner – Try a seafood meal with a view of the Dardanelles or a cozy meal in a traditional Turkish lokanta.
🌙 Overnight Stay in the Gallipoli Region
Today, you will explore the historical battlefields of Gallipoli, with the unique opportunity to snorkel over a sunken WWI warcraft. After a fully guided tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula, you will head back to Istanbul for the final part of your journey.
🌊 Morning: Snorkeling at Anzac Cove (April – October Only)
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to Anzac Cove.
Jump into the pristine waters for an unforgettable snorkeling experience over the Milo WW1 Craft, a sunken warship from World War I.
If conditions allow, you will see remains of the shipwreck and experience history in a truly unique way.
(💡 Snorkeling is only available from April to October due to weather conditions.)
🏛️ Afternoon: Fully Guided Gallipoli Tour
After snorkeling, enjoy lunch before beginning a comprehensive tour of the Gallipoli battlefields.
🔹 Gallipoli Tour Highlights:
🇦🇺 Anzac Cove – The landing site of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) during the Gallipoli Campaign in 1915.
🌿 Lone Pine Cemetery & Memorial – The site of one of the fiercest battles, dedicated to the Australian soldiers who lost their lives.
⚔️ Chunuk Bair Memorial – A key New Zealand war memorial, marking an important point in the battle.
🛡️ The Turkish 57th Regiment Memorial – Honoring the Turkish soldiers who bravely defended their homeland.
🚶 Walk through Original Trenches & Battlefields – Gain insight into the harsh realities of WWI trench warfare.
🏺 Gallipoli Museum – View artifacts, relics, and personal items recovered from the battlefield, offering a deeper perspective on the campaign.
🕊️ Reflection & Understanding – The tour provides an opportunity to reflect on the heroism, losses, and lasting friendships that emerged between nations despite the war.
🚍 Evening: Transfer to Istanbul
After the Gallipoli Tour, you will board a bus to Istanbul.
Enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views on the drive back to the city.
Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be transferred to your hotel for the night.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Istanbul.
Today, you will immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Istanbul, a city that has been the capital of three great empires: Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman. You will be picked up from your accommodation and guided through the most iconic sites of this fascinating city.
🏛️ Full-Day Istanbul Tour Highlights:
🕌 Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) – One of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and grand domes. (Note: Entry may be restricted during Friday prayers.)
⛪ Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) – A breathtaking architectural masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and now a mosque again for centuries. Marvel at its massive dome, ancient mosaics, and stunning Ottoman calligraphy.
🏰 Topkapi Palace – Step into the world of Ottoman sultans as you explore their grand palace, filled with ancient treasures, sacred relics, and lavish gardens. Visit the Sultan’s private rooms, Imperial Harem, and panoramic terraces with views over the Bosphorus Strait. (Note: Closed on Tuesdays.)
🛍️ Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar Tour:
🛒 Grand Bazaar (Kapalıcarsi) – One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling:
Handmade jewelry, carpets, ceramics, and antiques.
Unique souvenirs and Turkish textiles.
A lively atmosphere filled with bargaining and local craftsmanship. (Note: Closed on Sundays.)
🌿 Spice Bazaar (Mısır Carsisi) – A sensory overload of spices, Turkish delights, teas, and coffees. Enjoy the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents as you browse through local delicacies.
💡 Our Recommendation:
After the official tour ends, we recommend taking extra time to explore the Spice Bazaar at your own pace. Stroll through the market, sip on authentic Turkish tea, or indulge in sweet baklava and traditional Turkish coffee.
📝 Important Notes:
Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
Blue Mosque may not be accessible during Friday prayers.
Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
🚐 Pick-Up Information:
Pickups are available from central hotel areas, including:
Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, Taksim.
If staying outside these areas, an extra charge may apply—please check with our crew.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Istanbul.
Today, embark on a scenic and cultural journey through Istanbul, combining a Bosphorus cruise, palace visits, and breathtaking viewpoints for a truly memorable experience.
🏛️ Morning: Dolmabahce Palace Tour
Begin your day with a guided tour of the Dolmabahçe Palace, a magnificent royal residence that reflects the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire’s final era.
Built between 1842-1853, this palace is a blend of Neoclassical, Baroque, and Rococo architectural styles.
Last six Ottoman Sultans resided here before the fall of the empire.
In 1923, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk used this as his summer residence until his passing in 1938.
Marvel at the crystal chandeliers, gold-adorned ceilings, grand halls, and luxurious Ottoman-European interiors.
(🛑 Note: Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. On those days, the tour begins at 11:30 AM instead of 9:30 AM.)
🚢 Midday: Bosphorus Cruise – Sailing Between Continents
After the palace tour, board your Bosphorus cruise, sailing between Europe and Asia, while admiring the stunning architecture and historical landmarks.
🌊 Highlights Along the Bosphorus:
🏯 Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi) – A legendary tower that has served as a lighthouse, hospital, radio station, and now a museum & restaurant.
🏰 Kucuksu Palace – A small yet grand hunting lodge, built by Sultan Abdulmecid, where you’ll stop for a 1-hour visit.
🏨 Ciragan Palace – A magnificent Sultan’s palace turned luxury hotel, partially rebuilt after a fire in 1910.
🕌 Ortakoy Mosque – Known for its pink mosaics and waterside location, a stunning sight from the boat.
🌉 Bosphorus & Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges – Marvel at these iconic suspension bridges connecting Europe and Asia.
🏰 Rumeli Castle (Rumeli Hisarı) – Built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmed II, this fortress played a key role in the conquest of Constantinople.
🚌 Afternoon: Pierre Loti Hill & City Views
After disembarking, continue by bus through the Old City, then head to Pierre Loti Hill, one of Istanbul’s most romantic and scenic spots.
Named after a French novelist who loved Istanbul.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Horn.
Take the cable car to the top and try authentic Turkish coffee at a hilltop café.
🚌 Evening Return to Hotel
The bus drives along the ancient Old City Walls, which protected Constantinople for over 1,600 years.
Return to your hotel by 5:00-6:00 PM.
📝 Important Notes:
Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays (tour starts at 11:30 AM instead).
Dolmabahce Palace, Kucuksu Palace, and Pierre Loti Hill are the only stops you’ll explore on foot. The rest will be viewed from the boat or bus.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Istanbul
Today marks the end of your 16-day journey through Turkey, where you’ve experienced ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, cultural wonders, and unforgettable adventures.
✈️ Departure & Onward Travel Assistance
If you require any additional travel arrangements, we’re happy to assist with:
✔️ Airport Transfers – We can arrange transport to:
Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW).
✔️ Extended Stays & Additional Tours – If you’d like to explore more of Turkey, we can help with:
Day trips to Troy, Bursa, or Princes’ Islands.
Domestic flights, private transfers, or bus tickets.
✔️ Local Recommendations – If you have extra time in Istanbul, we can suggest:
A relaxing hammam (Turkish bath) experience.
A sunset Bosphorus dinner cruise.
A hidden gem café or rooftop restaurant for your final meal in Turkey.
🙏 Thank You for Traveling with Us!
We hope you had an amazing experience in Turkey and created unforgettable memories. Safe travels ✈️😊
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
Ephesus :Ephesus Centrum, Ephesus Palace, or similar
Fethiye :Fethiye Guesthouse, Dedeoglu Hotel, or similar
Olympos :Bayrams Tree Houses, Turkmen Tree Houses, or similar
Cappadocia :Dinler Hotel, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, or similar
Gallipoli :Anzac House Hostel, Crowded House, or similar
Istanbul :Olimpiyat Hotel, Fehmi Bey Hotel, or similar
Top End
Ephesus :Hotel Carina, Celsus Boutique Hotel, or similar
Fethiye :Marina Boutique Hotel, Orka Boutique Hotel, or similar
Olympos :or similar
Cappadocia :Uchisar Kaya Hotel, Ramada Hotel, or similar
Gallipoli :Grand Anzac Hotel, Hotel Akol, or similar
Istanbul :Golden Royal Hotel, Walton Hotel Galata, or similar
Premium
Ephesus :Cella Boutique Hotel, Akanthus Hotel, or similar
Fethiye :Ece Saray Marina & Resort, Yacht Classic Hotel, or similar
Olympos :or similar
Cappadocia :Kayakapi Premium Caves, DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, or similar
Gallipoli :Limani Hotel, Kolin Hotel, or similar
Istanbul :The Elysium Istanbul, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Sirkeci, or similar
Ephesus 3 Night
Fethiye 2 Night
Olympos 1 Night
Cappadocia 2 Night
Gallipoli 1 Night
Istanbul 3 Night