Welcome to Magnificent Turkey!

Your adventure begins the moment you arrive in this mesmerizing land where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. A comfortable transfer shuttle will be arranged to take you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and relaxing start to your journey.

Take this opportunity to unwind and settle in as you prepare for the unforgettable experiences ahead. Spend your first day and evening at your own pace, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul—a city that bridges continents and eras. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant streets, savor traditional Turkish cuisine, or simply relax at your hotel, your introduction to Turkey promises to be as welcoming as it is exciting.

Get ready to embark on a journey filled with discovery, breathtaking sights, and timeless history!

Pick-Up from Your Accommodation in Istanbul

Today, you embark on your first in-depth exploration of Istanbul, a city steeped in history, culture, and timeless charm. A comfortable pick-up from your accommodation will be arranged, setting the stage for an unforgettable guided tour of some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks.

Tour Highlights:

🕌 Blue Mosque – Be captivated by the exquisite architecture and stunning blue-tiled interior of this world-renowned mosque, an enduring symbol of Istanbul’s grandeur.

🏛 Hagia Sophia – Stand in awe of this breathtaking masterpiece, a site that has witnessed the rise of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Its colossal dome and stunning mosaics will leave you spellbound.

👑 Topkapi Palace – Step into the lavish world of the Ottoman sultans as you explore this historic palace, home to ancient treasures, opulent chambers, and serene gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.

🛍 Grand Bazaar – Lose yourself in one of the world’s largest and most vibrant covered markets. With over 4,000 shops, this bustling marketplace is a paradise for those seeking authentic Turkish souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, spices, and textiles.

Our Recommendation:

After your guided tour, make the most of your free time by visiting the Spice Bazaar, a sensory delight filled with the enticing aromas of Turkish tea, exotic spices, and delectable sweets. Though not included in the tour package, it’s an experience well worth your time, allowing you to soak in Istanbul’s rich flavors before heading back to your hotel.

Important Notes:

• 🏺 Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
• 🕌 Blue Mosque has restricted entry during Friday prayers.
• 🏰 Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

Pick-Up Information:

We provide complimentary hotel pick-ups from the following central areas:
✅ Sultanahmet
✅ Sirkeci
✅ Laleli
✅ Aksaray
✅ Taksim

For accommodations outside these areas, additional charges may apply. Please contact our team for assistance.

🏙 Overnight in Istanbul – Enjoy a relaxing evening, reflecting on the wonders of your first full day in this magical city.

Sights Visited

Pick-Up from Your Accommodation in Istanbul

On your third day in Istanbul, prepare to see the city from a fresh perspective—this time from the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus Strait. Your day begins with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation, followed by an exploration of one of the most opulent palaces of the Ottoman era.

Dolmabahce Palace – A Glimpse into Ottoman Luxury

Step into the grandeur of Dolmabahce Palace, the lavish residence of the Ottoman sultans. Adorned with glittering chandeliers, intricate gold detailing, and grand halls, this architectural masterpiece offers a fascinating glimpse into the empire’s final years. Wander through its resplendent rooms, taking in as much as time allows before the next leg of your adventure.

Bosphorus Cruise – Sailing Between Continents

Next, embark on a spectacular ferry cruise along the legendary Bosphorus Strait, the natural boundary between Europe and Asia. As you sail along this historic waterway, marvel at some of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks:

🌊 Rumeli Fortress – A mighty Ottoman stronghold, standing tall since the 15th century.
🏰 Galata Tower – A medieval stone tower that has watched over the city for centuries.
🏝 Maiden’s Tower – A legendary structure shrouded in myth, standing alone on a small islet.
🌉 Bosphorus Bridge – Glide beneath this engineering marvel that connects two continents.

Scenic Bus Tour & Pierre Loti Hill

After your cruise, board a comfortable bus to Pierre Loti Hill, a picturesque retreat offering sweeping views over the Golden Horn. Relax and enjoy a delightful lunch while sipping on traditional Turkish coffee, all while admiring the breathtaking scenery.

From Pierre Loti, take a cable car ride down the hillside, followed by a scenic drive along the historic Old City Walls, a testament to Istanbul’s deep-rooted past.

Your tour concludes in Sultanahmet, giving you time to reflect on the day’s incredible experiences before returning to your hotel.

Important Notes:

• 🏰 Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. On these days, the tour will commence at 11:30 AM.
• 🚶‍♂️ Walking tours are conducted only at Dolmabahce Palace, Kucuksu Palace, and Pierre Loti Hill. All other sights will be admired from the boat or bus.

🏙 Overnight in Istanbul – Spend a relaxing evening as you prepare for the next chapter of your Turkish adventure.

Sights Visited

Transfer from Istanbul to Gallipoli

Rise early and prepare for a day of deep historical significance as you embark on a journey to the Gallipoli Battlefields. Your destination is Eceabat, where you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch before delving into a fully guided exploration of the Gallipoli Peninsula, a site of immense bravery and sacrifice.

Tour Highlights:

🕊 Cemeteries & Memorials – Pay tribute to the soldiers of Australia, New Zealand, Britain, and Turkey, honoring those who fought with extraordinary courage during the Gallipoli campaign.

⚔ Battlefield Trenches – Walk through the original trenches, still preserved as a poignant reminder of the intense battles fought here. Imagine the lives of the soldiers who once stood in these very spots.

🏛 Gallipoli Museum – Explore a moving collection of artifacts, letters, and relics from the war, many of which continue to be unearthed from the battlefields today.

This day offers an opportunity to reflect on the heroism, loss, and resilience of those who fought in this historic conflict. It is also a chance to acknowledge the lasting friendships and peace that have emerged from the nations once at war over this land.

🏨 Overnight in the Gallipoli Region – After a day of remembrance and discovery, unwind and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Sights Visited

Transfer from Gallipoli to Troy & Pergamon

Today, embark on a fascinating journey through time as you explore two of Turkey’s most legendary ancient cities: Troy and Pergamon.

Morning: Discover the Ancient City of Troy

Step into the world of mythology and archaeology as you begin your day with a guided tour of Troy, a city immortalized by Homer’s Iliad. Explore its rich layers of history and legendary tales, including:

🛡 The Iconic Trojan Horse – A tribute to the legendary ruse that led to Troy’s downfall.
🏛 Sacrificial Altars & 3,700-Year-Old City Walls – Witness remnants of rituals and defensive structures from ancient times.
🏚 Houses of Troy I (3000–2500 B.C.) – Gain insight into one of the earliest known settlements of this historic site.
🏛 The Bouleuterion (Senate Building) & Odeon (Concert Hall) – Discover the city’s political and cultural centers.
🏺 The Nine Layers of Troy – Unravel the secrets of a city rebuilt over nine civilizations, showcasing its enduring significance.

After this deep dive into archaeological wonders, enjoy a lunch break before continuing your journey.

Afternoon: Explore the Marvels of Pergamon

Next, travel to Pergamon, an ancient city renowned for its grand architecture and influence in classical history. Key highlights include:

🏛 The Acropolis – Home to Pergamon’s most remarkable ruins, perched on a dramatic hilltop.
📜 The Library of Pergamon – Once a rival to the Great Library of Alexandria, it housed 200,000 scrolls.
🏺 The Temple of Athena & Temple of Trajan – Stunning structures dedicated to ancient deities.
💪 The Gymnasium – A training ground for athletes, spread across impressive terraces.
🏛 The Lower Agora & Hellenistic Theater – A spectacular open-air theater seating 10,000 people, offering breathtaking views.
🍷 The Temple of Dionysus – A shrine dedicated to the god of wine, revelry, and artistic expression.

Evening: Transfer to Ephesus Region

Following your exploration of Troy and Pergamon, continue your journey south toward Ephesus. Arriving in the late evening, you’ll settle into your accommodation in either Selcuk or Kusadasi, preparing for another day of discovery.

🏨 Overnight in the Ephesus Region – Rest and recharge before stepping into one of the world’s most well-preserved ancient cities.

Sights Visited

Ephesus Tour: Walk Through History

Today, step back in time as you explore the Ephesus region, home to some of the world’s most stunningly preserved ancient ruins. Once a thriving center of trade, religion, and culture, Ephesus was one of the greatest cities of the Roman Empire and the second-largest city of the ancient world.

After a comfortable pick-up from your accommodation, your guided tour will lead you through the magnificent remnants of this historic metropolis.

Tour Highlights:

🏛 Ephesus Ruins – Wander through the grand marble streets of this once-thriving city, lined with towering columns and intricate carvings. Discover:

• 📖 The Library of Celsus, an awe-inspiring structure that once held over 12,000 scrolls.
• 🎭 The Great Theater, which could accommodate 25,000 spectators and still echoes with the grandeur of past performances.
• 🏛 The Temple of Hadrian, a beautifully adorned monument dedicated to Emperor Hadrian.

🙏 House of the Virgin Mary – Visit this sacred pilgrimage site, believed to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Surrounded by peaceful forests, it remains a deeply spiritual place for visitors of all faiths.

🏺 Temple of Artemis – Explore the remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once a magnificent tribute to the goddess Artemis. Though only a few columns remain, its historical significance endures.

🏨 Overnight in the Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi) – Reflect on your day of discovery as you unwind and prepare for the next chapter of your Turkish adventure.

Sights Visited

Transfer from Ephesus to Pamukkale: A Journey to the “Cotton Castle”

After a hearty breakfast, prepare for a scenic journey to one of Turkey’s most breathtaking natural wonders—Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish. As you arrive, the dazzling white travertine terraces stacked across the landscape will leave you in awe, resembling a fairytale cascade of frozen waterfalls.

Tour Highlights:

🍽 Lunch with a View – Enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the iconic travertines, soaking in the mesmerizing scenery before your guided tour begins.

🏞 Pamukkale Travertines & Thermal Pools – Stroll across the gleaming white terraces, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters that have flowed for thousands of years. Dip your toes in the soothing warm pools, a natural spa that has been cherished since ancient times.

🏛 Hierapolis – The Ancient Spa City – Explore the ruins of Hierapolis, a 3,000-year-old Greco-Roman city that once attracted aristocrats seeking the healing powers of Pamukkale’s thermal waters. Key sights include:

• The Roman Theater – A remarkably well-preserved amphitheater offering stunning views.
• The Necropolis – One of the largest ancient cemeteries in Turkey, home to ornate tombs and sarcophagi.
• The Temple of Apollo – A sacred site dedicated to the god of prophecy and healing.

Optional Tour: Pamukkale Paragliding

For those seeking an extraordinary experience, take to the skies with a Pamukkale paragliding tour. Witness a breathtaking aerial view of the contrast between the white travertines and the ancient ruins, an unforgettable way to admire this unique landscape from above.

🏨 Overnight in the Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi) – After a day of exploration and relaxation, return to your accommodation and unwind as you prepare for the next chapter of your adventure.

Sights Visited

After enjoying your final breakfast in the Ephesus region, you will be transferred to Izmir Airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul.

As you take off, reflect on the unforgettable memories made throughout your journey—walking through ancient ruins, marveling at natural wonders, and immersing yourself in Turkey’s rich culture and history.

Upon your arrival in Istanbul, your tour officially concludes, but the experiences and stories you’ve gathered will stay with you forever.

We hope you had an incredible journey and look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures in the future!

Safe travels! ✈️