Welcome to Your Adventure in Turkey!

Your unforgettable journey begins the moment you arrive!

🌍 Airport Pick-Up & Seamless Transfer
Upon landing in Turkey, a friendly shuttle service will be waiting to greet you. Enjoy a comfortable and stress-free transfer directly to your hotel, where you can unwind and ease into your adventure.

🏨 Settle In & Relax
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you choose to:
✔ Relax in your hotel, getting refreshed after your travels, or
✔ Venture out to soak in Istanbul’s vibrant streets, local markets, and cultural energy
This is the perfect time to embrace the city’s unique charm before your adventure officially begins.

🌙 Evening Free – Your Time to Explore or Unwind
Enjoy a leisurely evening in Istanbul. You may choose to:
🍽️ Savor a traditional Turkish meal at a local restaurant.
🌅 Take a scenic stroll along the Bosphorus, watching the city lights shimmer on the water.
🛏️ Rest & recharge, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

🛌 Overnight Stay: Istanbul

Morning Pickup & Start of the Tour 🚐
Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup, ready to explore Istanbul’s enchanting Old City—a place where East meets West in a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and architecture.

🔹 Tour Highlights

🏛️ Hagia Sophia – Step into this architectural masterpiece, once a Greek Orthodox church, later an Ottoman mosque, and now a stunning museum. Admire its massive dome, breathtaking mosaics, and centuries of layered history.
🕌 Blue Mosque – A must-see landmark, renowned for its cascading domes and exquisite blue tilework. (Please note: Entry is unavailable during Friday prayers.)
👑 Topkapi Palace – Walk through the grand halls of the Ottoman Empire, exploring lavish gardens, ancient treasures, and the hidden chambers of sultans who ruled for centuries. (Closed on Tuesdays.)
🛍️ Grand Bazaar – Lose yourself in the world’s largest and oldest covered market, a vibrant maze of hand-painted ceramics, Turkish towels, textiles, jewelry, and antiques. (Closed on Sundays.)

💡 Our Recommendation
After the guided tour, take advantage of your free time to visit the Spice Bazaar. Immerse yourself in a sensory feast of Turkish teas, fragrant spices, and delicious sweet treats. While this stop is not included in the guided tour, it’s a must-visit for an authentic Istanbul experience.

📌 Important Notes
✔ Grand Bazaar: Closed on Sundays
✔ Blue Mosque: Entry not available during Friday prayers
✔ Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays
🚐 Hotel Pickups: Complimentary pickups are available from centrally located hotels in:
📍 Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and Taksim
💰 Hotels outside these areas may incur an additional fee—please contact our team for details.

🌙 Evening Free – Your Time to Explore or Relax
After the tour, the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You may choose to:
🍽️ Savor authentic Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant.
🌇 Wander through Istanbul’s vibrant streets, soaking in the city’s magical nighttime atmosphere.
🛏️ Unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

🛌 Overnight Stay: Istanbul

Sights Visited

Hotel Pickup & Start of the Day 🚐
Your day begins with a private transfer from your hotel to the ferry port, where you’ll embark on a breathtaking exploration of Istanbul by boat and foot.
With its unique position straddling two continents and a history spanning millennia, Istanbul offers endless wonders to discover.

🔹 Tour Highlights
🏰 Dolmabahce Palace – Begin your journey at this stunning Ottoman palace, renowned for its luxurious decor, crystal chandeliers, and European-style elegance.
✔ Spend 1.5 hours exploring its 285 lavish rooms, 40 majestic halls, and impressive art collections.
✔ Learn about its significance as the last residence of the Ottoman sultans.
📌 Important Note: Dolmabahçe Palace is closed on Mondays. On this day, the tour will start at 11:30 AM.

🚢 Bosphorus Cruise – Set sail on a 2.5-hour cruise along the legendary Bosphorus Strait, the natural divide between Europe and Asia.
✔ Admire Istanbul’s breathtaking skyline, featuring historic palaces, mosques, and waterfront mansions.
✔ Stop on the Asian Side – Disembark at Kucuksu Palace, a hidden gem surrounded by lush gardens, where you’ll have time to explore before reboarding for the return journey.

🚌 Bus Tour & Pierre Loti Hill – After your cruise, continue exploring Istanbul’s rich heritage:
✔ Drive along the historic city walls and through charming old neighborhoods.
✔ Ascend to Pierre Loti Hill, one of the best panoramic viewpoints of the Golden Horn.
✔ Relax with authentic Turkish coffee while taking in the breathtaking views.
🍽️ Lunch & Cable Car Ride – Enjoy a delicious local meal, then take a scenic cable car ride down from the hill.

🏛️ City Walls & Sultanahmet – Conclude your tour with a drive around Istanbul’s ancient city walls, followed by a return to Sultanahmet, the city’s historic heart.

🌙 Evening Free – Your Time to Explore
The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. You may choose to:
🍽️ Savor traditional Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant.
🛍️ Explore Sultanahmet’s charming streets, filled with boutique shops and historical sites.
🛏️ Unwind at your hotel, reflecting on a day filled with exploration.

🛌 Overnight Stay: Istanbul

Sights Visited

Early Morning Departure 🌅
Start your day bright and early with a scenic drive from Istanbul to the historic Gallipoli Peninsula, a journey of approximately 5.5 hours. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel toward one of the most significant battlegrounds of World War I.

🔹 Gallipoli Guided Tour 🎖️
Upon arrival in Eceabat, the gateway to Gallipoli, prepare for a fully guided tour that immerses you in the history, tragedy, and heroism of the ANZAC Campaign.

🚩 Tour Highlights
⚰️ Cemeteries & Memorials – Visit the resting places of soldiers from New Zealand, Australia, Britain, and Turkey. Reflect on the sacrifices made and the enduring bonds between nations shaped by this shared history.
⚔️ Battle Sites & Trenches – Walk through the original battlefields, trenches, and tunnels, where soldiers once fought fiercely. Gain deep insights into strategies, challenges, and personal stories from your expert guide.
🌄 ANZAC Battlefields – Witness the rugged terrain where pivotal battles were waged, shaping the course of history. Take a moment to reflect on the bravery, loss, and friendships that emerged from the conflict.

🌙 Evening in Canakkale
After a day immersed in history, transfer to the nearby seaside city of Canakkale. Upon arrival:
✔ Check into your accommodation and unwind.
✔ Explore the charming waterfront, lined with cafés and scenic promenades.
✔ Relax and recharge, preparing for the next day’s adventures.

🛌 Overnight Stay: Canakkale

Sights Visited

Morning Transfer to Troy 🏛️
Rise early for a journey to Troy, one of the most legendary archaeological sites in the world. Walk through the ruins of an ancient city immortalized by Homer’s Iliad, where myth and history intertwine.

🔹 Highlights of Troy

🐎 The Trojan Horse – Start your visit at the iconic wooden replica, symbolizing the legendary Trojan War and the cunning strategy that led to Troy’s fall.

🏡 Houses of Troy – Explore the remains of homes dating back to 3,000–2,500 B.C., offering a rare insight into early civilizations.
🔥 Sacrificial Altars – Stand before ancient altars, once used for religious rituals and offerings throughout Troy’s long history.
🏛️ Bouleuterion – Visit Troy’s Senate Building, where important political decisions were made in ancient times.
🎶 The Odeon – Admire this ancient concert hall, where music, poetry, and performances once filled the air.
🕰️ Troy I to Troy IX – Witness the layers of nine different cities built atop one another, each representing a distinct era of Troy’s history.

🚐 Transfer to Pergamon & Lunch Break 🍽️
After exploring Troy, enjoy a well-deserved lunch break before heading to the ancient city of Pergamon—one of the most renowned centers of culture, art, and learning in antiquity.

🔹 Highlights of Pergamon
🏛️ The Acropolis – Perched high above the plains, this breathtaking hilltop citadel offers panoramic views and insights into Pergamon’s former grandeur.
⚔️ Temple of Athena – Walk through the remains of a temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and warfare, reflecting the city’s deep intellectual and military heritage.

📖 Library of Pergamon – Once home to over 200,000 scrolls, this world-renowned library rivaled the Library of Alexandria in its influence.
🏛️ Temple of Trajan – An exquisite example of Roman architecture, this temple was dedicated to Emperor Trajan and stands as a testament to Rome’s lasting impact on Pergamon.
🎭 Hellenistic Theater – Marvel at one of the steepest ancient theaters, capable of holding up to 10,000 spectators, offering a stunning view of the landscape below.
🍷 Temple of Dionysus – Explore this temple in the Lower Agora, dedicated to the god of wine, revelry, and festivities.

🌙 Evening Transfer to Ephesus
After a day rich in history and discovery, begin your journey to the Ephesus region. Arrive in the late evening and check into your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi. Unwind and rest in preparation for the next day’s adventures.

🛌 Overnight Stay: Selcuk or Kusadasi

Sights Visited

Morning Pickup & Start of the Tour 🚐
Your day begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in the Ephesus region (Selcuk or Kusadasi). Get ready to explore Ephesus, one of the best-preserved and most historically significant ancient cities in the world.

🔹 Tour Highlights

🏛️ The Ancient City of Ephesus – Step back in time as you stroll through the marble streets of this once-thriving metropolis. At its peak, Ephesus was the largest city in the Roman, Persian, and Ionian empires, home to over 200,000 residents.
📍 Must-See Landmarks:
✔ Library of Celsus – One of the most breathtaking structures in Ephesus, once holding thousands of scrolls in its grand two-story facade.
✔ Great Theatre – A massive amphitheater that could seat up to 25,000 spectators, hosting everything from gladiator fights to grand performances.
✔ Temple of Hadrian – An elegant monument dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, adorned with intricate reliefs.

🙏 The House of the Virgin Mary – A peaceful and sacred site, believed to be the final residence of the Virgin Mary. Nestled on a serene hillside, this pilgrimage destination welcomes visitors of all faiths for reflection and spiritual connection.

🏛️ The Temple of Artemis – Discover the remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only fragments remain, this once-magnificent structure was a marvel of ancient architecture and devotion.

🌙 Evening & Overnight Stay
After a day steeped in history, return to your accommodation in the Ephesus region. Spend your evening at leisure:
✔ Explore the charming streets of Selcuk, where history and culture blend effortlessly.
✔ Relax in Kusadasi, a lively seaside town with stunning waterfront views.
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal, savoring the flavors of the region.

🛌 Overnight Stay: Selcuk or Kusadasi

Sights Visited

🌅 Morning in the Ephesus Region
Start your day at a relaxed pace, soaking in the charm of Selcuk or Kusadasi.
✔ Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, savoring local flavors.
✔ Explore the town, visit local markets, or stop by any historical sites you may have missed.
✔ Take in the peaceful atmosphere before setting off on your next adventure.

🚐 Transfer to Pamukkale
Depart mid-morning for your journey to Pamukkale, a destination famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich ancient history.
📍 Upon arrival:
🍽️ Enjoy a delightful lunch in town before beginning your guided exploration.

🔹 Guided Tour Highlights
🌿 Pamukkale Travertines – Walk along the dazzling white calcite terraces, famously known as the “Cotton Castle.” Feel the warm, mineral-rich waters beneath your feet as you ascend this natural wonder.

🏛️ Hierapolis Ancient City – Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient spa city founded by the Romans. Stroll through well-preserved streets, temples, and thermal bathhouses, and visit one of the world’s most impressive necropolises.

🏺 Cleopatra’s Pool (Optional) – For an additional cost, enjoy a luxurious dip in the Antique Pool, where legend says Cleopatra herself once bathed. Swim among submerged Roman columns in this mineral-rich thermal spring.

✨ Optional Adventure: Pamukkale Paragliding 🪂 (Extra Cost)
For those seeking a thrill, paragliding over Pamukkale offers a stunning aerial perspective of the white terraces, thermal pools, and lush surroundings.
✔ Soar above Pamukkale’s landscapes with an experienced pilot.
✔ Enjoy breathtaking views of one of Turkey’s most unique natural wonders.
✔ Capture an unforgettable experience from a bird’s-eye view.

🚍 Evening Transfer to Cappadocia (Overnight Bus)
After a day of exploration and relaxation, prepare for an overnight journey to Cappadocia, a land of fairy chimneys, surreal valleys, and ancient underground cities.
🕒 Travel Time: Approximately 8–10 hours
🚌 Comfortable long-distance bus, equipped for rest and relaxation.

🌙 Overnight: On the bus to Cappadocia

Sights Visited

🌅 Morning Arrival in Cappadocia
Wake up in the magical land of Cappadocia, famous for its surreal rock formations, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes.
✔ Upon arrival, drop off your luggage at your accommodation.
✔ Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and prepare for an exciting day of discovery.

🚐 South Cappadocia Tour – A Journey Through Nature & History
After a hotel pickup, embark on a guided tour of South Cappadocia, where stunning landscapes and centuries-old ingenuity blend into an unforgettable experience.

🔹 Tour Highlights
🏰 Uchisar Castle – Start your day at Cappadocia’s highest point, a rock-hewn fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views over the region’s unique valleys.
🏛️ Kaymaklı Underground City – Step into the largest and most fascinating underground city in Cappadocia. Wander through intricate tunnels, hidden rooms, and ancient storage chambers, once used by early Christians as a refuge from invasions.
🌿 Meskendir Valley – Take a leisurely stroll through this scenic valley, known for its lush surroundings, hidden caves, and remarkable rock formations.

✨ Optional Activities – Adventure & Culture
🚜 ATV (Quad) Bike Safari (Extra Cost | 5:00 PM)
For those seeking adventure, explore Cappadocia’s otherworldly terrain on an exhilarating ATV safari.
✔ Ride through the rugged valleys, navigating scenic trails and towering rock formations.
✔ Enjoy a thrilling experience, perfect for adrenaline lovers and photography enthusiasts.
✔ Take in the breathtaking sunset, casting golden hues over Cappadocia’s landscape.

🎭 Turkish Night Show & Dinner (Extra Cost | Evening Entertainment)
After a day of exploration, immerse yourself in Turkey’s vibrant culture with a traditional Turkish Night Show in an authentic cave restaurant.
🍽️ Enjoy a full-course Turkish feast with unlimited drinks.
💃 Be captivated by folk dances, belly dancing, and cultural performances.
🎶 Experience live traditional music and rituals, showcasing Turkey’s rich heritage.
🚐 Convenient hotel pickup & drop-off included.

🌙 Overnight Stay – Cappadocia
After a day of discovery and adventure, return to your Cappadocia accommodation to rest and recharge for another exciting day ahead.

Sights Visited

🌅 Early Morning Option: Hot Air Balloon Flight 🎈 (Optional Tour)
Begin your final day in Cappadocia with an unforgettable Hot Air Balloon Flight, soaring high above fairy chimneys, valleys, and mountains as the sunrise paints the landscape in golden hues.
✔ Experience Cappadocia’s most iconic activity, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
✔ Float serenely above the surreal rock formations, capturing stunning photos from the sky.
✔ Create lifelong memories with this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
💡 Note: This activity is not included in the tour package and requires an additional cost. Early booking is highly recommended due to demand.

🍽️ Breakfast & North Cappadocia Tour 🚐
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of North Cappadocia, a region rich in history, culture, and remarkable landscapes.

🔹 Tour Highlights

🏞️ Monks Valley (Pasabag) – Discover Cappadocia’s most famous fairy chimneys, once used as monastic retreats. These towering formations create a breathtaking backdrop, making them one of the most photographed spots in the region.

🐪 Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) – A place where nature meets fantasy! Marvel at whimsical rock formations, shaped by wind and time, resembling animals and mythical creatures. Let your imagination run wild!

📸 The Three Beauties – Admire this legendary trio of fairy chimneys, celebrated for their unique shapes and fascinating local folklore. A must-see for photographers and storytellers alike.

🏺 Local Villages & Artisan Crafts – Visit charming villages and interact with local artisans, witnessing traditional pottery, textiles, and handcrafted souvenirs. Take home a piece of Cappadocia’s rich heritage.

🚍 Evening Transfer to Istanbul – Overnight Bus
As your Cappadocia adventure comes to an end, board an overnight bus back to Istanbul, enjoying a comfortable and restful journey.
🕒 Travel Time: Approximately 8–10 hours
🚌 Equipped with reclining seats, allowing you to rest comfortably during the trip.

🌙 Overnight: On the Bus to Istanbul

Sights Visited

🌅 Welcome Back to Istanbul!
Arrive in Istanbul early in the morning after your overnight journey from Cappadocia. Take this time to relax, reflect on your adventures, and explore more of this incredible city at your own pace.

💡 Need Assistance? We’re Here to Help!
If you require help with:
✔ Accommodation bookings
✔ Additional activities or sightseeing recommendations
✔ General travel inquiries
Our team at Alaturca is always available to assist you, ensuring your stay in Istanbul is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

🙏 Thank You for Traveling with Us!
We hope your journey through Turkey’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture has been an unforgettable experience.
🌍 Wishing you safe travels and wonderful memories to cherish!
We look forward to welcoming you again in the future!