18-Day Turkey Unplugged Tour – A Journey Through History & Nature
Embark on an 18-day adventure through Turkey’s most breathtaking destinations, blending history, relaxation, and cultural exploration.
Your journey begins in the harbor town of Fethiye, where you’ll set sail on a scenic cruise to Olympos. As you glide along the Turkish coast, you’ll visit serene bays and picturesque harbor towns, soaking in the beauty of the sapphire-blue waters. Upon arriving in Olympos, take time to explore the ancient ruins, nestled within lush greenery and rich history.
Next, travel to the enchanting region of Cappadocia, where you’ll embark on the North and South Cappadocia Tours. These guided experiences will unveil hidden cave dwellings, fairy chimneys, and breathtaking valleys, offering an unforgettable glimpse into this otherworldly landscape.
From Cappadocia, your adventure continues to Pamukkale, where you’ll witness the stunning white travertine terraces and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, a once-thriving Greco-Roman spa town.
Finally, arrive in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where history and culture collide. Explore iconic landmarks, majestic palaces, and bustling bazaars, discovering the rich heritage that makes this city so fascinating and unforgettable.
This 18-day tour offers the perfect balance of coastal relaxation, ancient wonders, and urban exploration, making it an ideal way to experience Turkey’s diverse landscapes and history.
Itinerary
🛬 Airport/Harbour/Bus Station Pick-Up & Transfer
✔ Private or shared transfer from:
Fethiye Harbour (for those arriving by ferry or yacht).
Dalaman Airport (approx. 1-hour drive to Fethiye).
Fethiye Bus Station (for travelers coming from other cities in Turkey).
🏨 Check-in at your hotel in Fethiye
✔ Rest & unwind after your journey.
✔ Explore the charming town of Fethiye at your leisure.
🌅 Suggested Activities for Your Free Evening in Fethiye
🌊 Sunset at Calis Beach – Relax on the seaside promenade, a perfect spot for a first sunset in Turkey.
🍽 Dinner by the Marina – Enjoy fresh Turkish seafood or mezze at one of Fethiye’s top-rated restaurants.
🏛 Explore the Old Town (Paspatur) – Wander through narrow streets filled with shops, cafés, and hidden gems.
🏨 Overnight in Fethiye
Today is your first full day in Turkey, giving you the chance to relax or dive into exciting activities around Fethiye. Whether you’re an adventurer, history lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone.
🌟 Top Recommended Activities for Your Free Day
🛻 Option 1: Jeep Safari Adventure (Full Day)
✔ An exciting off-road experience, taking you through forests, mountains, and hidden villages.
✔ Visit Saklıkent Gorge, one of Turkey’s deepest canyons—walk through its cool waters.
✔ Stop at Tlos Ancient City, an old Lycian-Roman site with rock tombs and an amphitheater.
✔ Enjoy a mud bath experience and swim in natural hot springs.
🏔 Option 2: Paragliding Over Oludeniz (Half Day – Must Be Booked in Advance)
✔ One of the world’s most scenic paragliding experiences.
✔ Take off from Babadag Mountain (1,965m high) and soar over the stunning Blue Lagoon.
✔ A once-in-a-lifetime experience for thrill-seekers!
🏛 Option 3: Visit Kayakoy – The Ghost Village (Half Day)
✔ A mystical abandoned Greek village, once home to thousands of people.
✔ Explore the ruins of stone houses, churches, and cobblestone streets.
✔ A great historical and photography spot, only 20 minutes from Fethiye.
🚤 Option 4: 12 Islands Boat Tour (Full Day)
✔ A relaxing boat trip visiting hidden coves, unspoiled islands, and turquoise waters.
✔ Stops include Butterfly Valley, St. Nicholas Island, and Aquarium Bay.
✔ Enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
🍽 Evening: Local Fish Market Experience
✔ Visit the famous Fethiye Fish Market, where you can:
Choose fresh seafood directly from the stalls.
Have it grilled on the spot at a local restaurant.
Pair it with delicious Turkish mezes and local wines.
🏨 Overnight in Fethiye
Today, you set sail on a traditional Turkish gulet, embarking on a 4-day Mediterranean adventure along the stunning Turquoise Coast. Your journey includes hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins—a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
🛳 Morning: Departure from Fethiye Harbour
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in Fethiye.
🍽 Enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to the harbor.
🚢 Board your traditional wooden gulet, meet the crew and fellow travelers, and get settled into your cabin.
🌊 Sail out of Fethiye Bay and begin your adventure!
🏝 Midday: Swimming & Exploring Butterfly Valley
📍 First stop: Butterfly Valley (subject to weather conditions)
✔ A beautiful natural canyon, home to rare butterfly species.
✔ Take a short hike through the valley to a hidden waterfall.
✔ Swim in the turquoise waters, or just relax on the white sand beach.
📍 Oludeniz & Blue Lagoon
✔ One of Turkey’s most famous beaches, known for its stunning turquoise waters.
✔ Optional: Swim, snorkel, or take a short walk to a viewpoint.
✔ Watch paragliders soaring above from Babadag Mountain.
🌅 Evening: Sunset at St. Nicholas Island
📍 Anchor at St. Nicholas Island for the night.
✔ Hike to the top of the island, where ancient Lycian ruins offer breathtaking views.
✔ Witness one of the most beautiful sunsets on the Mediterranean.
✔ Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner on board, with the sounds of the sea around you.
🏨 Overnight in your private cabin on the gulet, anchored in a peaceful bay.
Today, your gulet cruise continues along the stunning Turquoise Coast, with swimming stops, sunbathing, and a visit to the charming town of Kas—a seaside gem known for its laid-back atmosphere and boutique shops.
🌊 Morning: Breakfast & First Swim Stop
🍽 Wake up to a traditional Turkish breakfast on board, served with fresh bread, olives, cheese, eggs, and local jams.
🏝 Anchor at a secluded bay for a morning swim—dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
☀️ Enjoy sunbathing on deck while your crew prepares for the next stop.
🏝 Midday: Arriving in Kas – A Charming Coastal Town
🚢 Sail into the picturesque harbor town of Kas.
📍 Explore Kas’s old town, known for:
✔ Narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful flowers.
✔ Handmade jewelry shops, boutique stores, and Turkish textiles.
✔ Charming cafés offering fresh juices and Turkish coffee.
✔ Optional: Visit the Ancient Lycian Rock Tombs above the town.
🥗 Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch (optional) at one of the town’s harbor-side restaurants.
🏝 Afternoon: More Swimming & Relaxation
🚢 Board the gulet and continue sailing east.
✔ Stop at another beautiful hidden bay for snorkeling & swimming.
✔ Optional: Try paddleboarding or kayaking, if available on board.
✔ Sunset relaxation on deck with Turkish tea & snacks.
🌙 Evening: Dinner & Overnight on the Gulet
🍽 Enjoy another freshly cooked meal on board, featuring local Turkish flavors.
🎶 Relax under the stars, listen to the waves, or chat with fellow travelers.
🏨 Overnight in your cabin, anchored in a peaceful bay near Kas.
Today, your gulet cruise sails into ancient history, passing the Sunken City of Kekova, a fascinating underwater archaeological site, and stopping at Simena Castle, a hilltop fortress with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
🌊 Morning: Breakfast & Sailing Towards Kekova
🍽 Enjoy a peaceful breakfast on board while the gulet sails towards Kekova Island.
🚢 Pass through scenic coastal landscapes, with stops for morning swimming and snorkeling.
🏛 Midday: The Sunken City of Kekova (UNESCO-Protected Site)
📍 A partially submerged ancient Lycian city, lost to an earthquake centuries ago.
✔ Sail slowly past the ruins, spotting:
Ancient staircases leading into the sea.
Half-submerged stone walls and archways.
The remnants of homes, shops, and churches beneath the water.
✔ No swimming or diving is allowed to protect the historical site.
✔ Your guide will share stories of its past and its connection to the Lycian Empire.
🏰 Afternoon: Visit Simena Castle & Lycian Tombs
🚢 Anchor at the charming village of Simena (modern-day Kalekoy).
✔ Optional: Hike up to Simena Castle, a medieval fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes.
✔ Breathtaking panoramic views over Kekova and the turquoise coastline.
✔ Explore Lycian rock tombs carved into the hillside.
✔ Try homemade pomegranate or lemon ice cream from a local café in the village.
🌙 Evening: Dinner & Overnight on the Gulet
🚢 Set sail again to anchor in a secluded bay for the night.
🍽 Enjoy a delicious onboard dinner, featuring Turkish cuisine.
🎶 Relax under the stars, listening to the gentle sounds of the sea.
🏨 Overnight in your private cabin on the gulet.
Today, you say goodbye to the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean and continue your journey inland to Olympos, an ancient site hidden in lush nature, known for its historical ruins, beautiful beach, and relaxed atmosphere.
🌊 Morning: Final Breakfast & Farewell to the Gulet
🍽 Enjoy your last breakfast on board, savoring fresh fruit, olives, cheeses, and Turkish tea.
🚢 Sail towards Demre Harbor, where you’ll disembark from the gulet.
👋 Bid farewell to the crew and fellow travelers.
🚌 Midday: Transfer to Olympos & National Park Exploration
🚖 Board a local minibus heading towards Olympos National Park (approx. 1.5 hours).
📍 Check-in at your treehouse or eco-lodge accommodation.
🌿 Take a short break before setting off to explore the ancient ruins.
✔ Olympos Ancient City – Walk through the remains of this Lycian-Roman city, where moss-covered ruins, stone sarcophagi, and hidden pathways transport you back in time.
✔ Follow the scenic path leading to Olympos Beach, a long stretch of sand and pebbles, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
✔ Optional: Explore the surrounding hiking trails, leading to hidden waterfalls and lush forest views.
🌅 Evening: Relaxing by the Beach or Optional Visit to Chimaera Flames
✔ Sunset at Olympos Beach – Watch the sky change colors as the waves gently lap the shore.
🔥 Optional: Visit the Eternal Flames of Chimaera (Yanartas) at Night
A short hike up to a mystical site, where natural flames emerge from the rocks due to underground gas emissions.
A fascinating mythological and geological wonder, believed to be the inspiration for the Chimera in Greek legends.
🏨 Overnight in Olympos
Today is a relaxation day in the beautiful natural surroundings of Olympos. You can swim, explore more ruins, or just soak up the sunshine before beginning your overnight journey to Cappadocia.
🌊 Morning: Relax & Enjoy the Last Moments in Olympos
✔ Take a morning swim in the crystal-clear waters of Olympos Beach.
✔ Enjoy a slow breakfast at your treehouse/bungalow lodge.
✔ Optional: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline.
✔ Walk through the forest trails, leading to hidden spots with panoramic views.
🏛 Afternoon: Optional Activities Before Departure
🚶♂️ Short hike to more hidden Lycian ruins deeper in the forest.
🔥 Second chance to visit the Eternal Flames of Chimaera (Yanartaş) if you missed it last night.
📷 Relax at a beachfront café, enjoying a fresh juice or Turkish coffee with stunning views.
🚌 Evening: Transfer to Antalya & Overnight Bus to Cappadocia
✔ Check out from your accommodation in the late afternoon.
✔ Board a local minibus to Antalya (approx. 1.5-2 hours).
✔ Arrive at Antalya Bus Station and meet your overnight bus.
✔ Overnight bus to Cappadocia (Goreme)—a long but comfortable ride (approx. 10-11 hours).
💤 Sleep on the bus as you travel towards one of Turkey’s most unique landscapes!
🏨 Overnight on the Bus to Cappadocia
Today, you wake up in the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, famous for its unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings. You’ll have a free day to relax after the overnight bus journey, with an optional ATV (quad bike) safari at sunset for those looking for adventure.
🚌 Morning: Arrival & Hotel Check-in
✔ Arrive at Goreme Bus Station after the overnight journey.
🚖 Meet your transfer driver & check-in at your cave hotel.
☕ Enjoy a relaxed breakfast or Turkish tea at a local café.
💤 Rest & unwind, or take a short stroll through Goreme’s charming streets.
🌄 Afternoon: Free Time or Optional Activities
Relaxed Options:
✔ Explore Goreme Town – Visit local shops, cafés, and pottery workshops.
✔ Take a short hike to Sunset Point – A breathtaking panoramic view of the valleys.
✔ Visit Goreme Open-Air Museum (optional – UNESCO site with ancient cave churches).
Adventure Option:
🏍️ Optional ATV (Quad Bike) Safari – 17:00 PM (Highly Recommended!)
✔ A thrilling ride through Cappadocia’s rugged landscapes.
✔ Explore off-road trails in Rose Valley, Love Valley & Swords Valley.
✔ Enjoy an epic sunset view over the fairy chimneys & valleys.
✔ No experience needed – full training provided before the ride.
🌙 Evening: Relax & Enjoy Cappadocian Cuisine
🍽 Dinner Recommendation: Try a Testi Kebab (Pottery Kebab), a famous local dish.
🎶 Optional: Watch a Turkish Night Show with traditional dance & music.
🏨 Overnight in a Cave Hotel in Cappadocia.
Today is a spectacular day of adventure, beginning with an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride, followed by a guided tour of South Cappadocia’s underground cities, valleys, and castles. In the evening, you can enjoy an optional Turkish Night Show with dinner.
🌅 Early Morning: Optional Hot Air Balloon Flight (Highly Recommended!)
🚖 Pick-up before sunrise (around 4:30-5:00 AM, depending on the season).
🎈 Float above Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes as the sun rises.
📸 Capture stunning views of fairy chimneys, valleys, and ancient cave dwellings.
🥂 Celebrate with a champagne toast & receive a flight certificate.
🚖 Return to your hotel for breakfast & some rest before your tour.
🛑 Note: Balloon flights sell out quickly—advance booking is recommended!
🍽 Morning: Breakfast & Start of South Cappadocia Tour
✔ Pick-up from your accommodation after breakfast.
✔ Meet your expert guide and begin exploring South Cappadocia.
🏛 Full-Day South Cappadocia Tour Highlights
📍 Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı Underground City
✔ Explore a massive, ancient underground city, built by early Christians for protection.
✔ Walk through narrow tunnels, ventilation shafts, and living quarters.
✔ See storage rooms, churches, and hidden escape routes.
📍 Uchisar Castle Panorama
✔ A natural rock fortress, the highest point in Cappadocia.
✔ Stunning 360-degree views over the valleys and fairy chimneys.
📍 Meskendir Valley Hike
✔ A scenic walk through hidden rock formations and ancient cave dwellings.
✔ Enjoy a refreshing nature experience, away from crowds.
📍 Pigeon Valley
✔ Named after the hundreds of pigeon houses carved into the cliffs.
✔ Breathtaking photo opportunities with volcanic rock formations and caves.
📍 Love Valley (Famous for its unique rock formations!)
✔ See towering, naturally-formed fairy chimneys that resemble tall pillars.
✔ A great place for landscape photography and scenic walks.
🌙 Evening: Optional Turkish Night Show & Dinner
🚖 Pick-up from your hotel & transfer to a traditional cave restaurant.
🎶 Experience a cultural evening of Turkish dance, music, and entertainment.
💃 See belly dancers, whirling dervishes, and folk dance performances.
🍽 Enjoy a full-course Turkish meal with unlimited drinks.
🚖 Drop-off back at your hotel around 11:30 PM.
🏨 Overnight in a Cave Hotel in Cappadocia
Today, you’ll explore the northern region of Cappadocia, visiting ancient villages, unique rock formations, and local handicrafts workshops. In the evening, you’ll board an overnight bus to Pamukkale.
🍽 Morning: Breakfast & Start of the North Cappadocia Tour
✔ Pick-up from your hotel after breakfast.
✔ Meet your guide & group, then begin your journey through North Cappadocia.
🏛 Full-Day North Cappadocia Tour Highlights
📍 Goreme Panorama
✔ Start your day with a breathtaking view over Goreme Valley.
✔ Get a perfect aerial view of fairy chimneys and cave dwellings.
📍 Monks Valley (Pasabag Valley)
✔ See the most famous fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, shaped like tall mushrooms.
✔ Learn about how Christian monks once lived inside these natural formations.
📍 Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)
✔ A surreal landscape with rock formations resembling animals & objects.
✔ Spot a camel, dolphins, and even a Virgin Mary silhouette in the rocks.
📍 Avanos – Pottery Town
✔ Visit a traditional pottery workshop, where Cappadocian clay is shaped by hand.
✔ Optional: Try making your own pottery with local artisans!
📍 Cavusin Village
✔ One of the oldest villages in Cappadocia, known for its rock-cut houses and churches.
✔ Explore the ruins of St. John the Baptist Church, offering great views.
📍 Urgup Three Beauties (Famous Fairy Chimneys)
✔ A symbol of Cappadocia, known as the “Three Sisters” rock formations.
✔ Legend says they represent a father, mother, and daughter.
🌙 Evening: Transfer to Bus Station & Overnight Bus to Pamukkale
🚖 Drop-off at Goreme bus station in the evening.
🚌 Board the overnight bus to Pamukkale (approx. 10-11 hours, comfortable seats & onboard services).
💤 Sleep during the journey as you head towards Turkey’s famous “Cotton Castle”.
🏨 Overnight on the bus to Pamukkale
Today, you’ll witness the stunning sunrise over Pamukkale from a hot air balloon (optional), followed by a full-day guided tour of the famous white travertines and ancient ruins of Hierapolis. In the evening, you’ll travel onward to the Ephesus region.
🌅 Early Morning: Optional Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Pamukkale (Highly Recommended!)
🚖 Pick-up before sunrise (around 5:00 AM, depending on the season).
🎈 Fly over Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces & the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.
📸 Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and capture unforgettable sunrise photos.
🥂 Champagne celebration after landing.
🚖 Drop-off back at your hotel for breakfast before your tour.
🛑 Note: Balloon flights book out quickly—reserve in advance!
🍽 Morning: Arrival in Pamukkale & Breakfast
✔ Arrive at Pamukkale early in the morning after the overnight bus from Cappadocia.
✔ Enjoy a relaxed breakfast & freshen up before the tour starts.
🏛 Full-Day Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour Highlights
📍 Pamukkale Travertines – “The Cotton Castle”
✔ A natural wonder of mineral-rich thermal waters, forming bright white terraces.
✔ Walk barefoot on the travertines, feeling the warm, healing waters.
✔ Enjoy a relaxing dip in the natural thermal pools.
📍 Hierapolis Ancient City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
✔ Explore the ruins of this Greco-Roman city, famous for its healing waters.
✔ Visit the Grand Theatre, Necropolis (Ancient Cemetery), and the Temple of Apollo.
✔ Optional: Swim in Cleopatra’s Antique Pool, where sunken Roman columns create a magical experience.
📍 Pamukkale Natural Park & Hot Springs
✔ Enjoy the scenic beauty of Pamukkale, with lakes, gardens, and small waterfalls.
✔ Learn about the ancient spa culture that made this region famous for centuries.
🚍 Afternoon: Transfer to Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)
✔ After the tour, board a comfortable bus to Selcuk or Kusadasi (approx. 3-4 hours).
✔ Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
🍽 Evening: Free Time & Dinner in Ephesus Region
🍽 Dinner Recommendation:
Try Aegean-style Turkish cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, mezes, and olive oil dishes.
Selcuk: Quiet & historical town, great for a relaxed evening walk.
Kusadasi: Lively coastal town with beachfront restaurants & bars.
🏨 Overnight in Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)
Today, you will explore Ephesus, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, along with two other historical and religious landmarks—the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
🍽 Morning: Breakfast & Pick-Up for Ephesus Tour
✔ Pick-up from your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi.
✔ Meet your expert guide, who will take you through the highlights of Ephesus.
✔ Drive to the Ephesus archaeological site (approx. 15-20 min from Selçuk, 30 min from Kuşadası).
🏛 Full-Day Ephesus Tour Highlights
📍 Ephesus Ancient City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
✔ Walk through one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
✔ Stroll along the famous Marble Street, where Roman citizens once walked.
✔ Visit the iconic Library of Celsus, one of the most magnificent libraries of the ancient world.
✔ See the Great Theatre of Ephesus, where St. Paul is believed to have preached.
✔ Explore the Temple of Hadrian, Roman Bathhouses, and the Agora (Marketplace).
📍 House of the Virgin Mary (A Site of Christian Pilgrimage)
✔ A small stone house where it is believed the Virgin Mary spent her last years.
✔ Learn about its historical and religious significance to both Christians & Muslims.
✔ Optional: Light a candle and make a wish at the wishing wall.
📍 Temple of Artemis (One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World)
✔ Once one of the largest and most spectacular temples of the ancient world.
✔ Today, only ruins remain, but the history and significance of this grand temple can still be felt.
📍 Ephesus Archaeological Museum (Optional Visit)
✔ See artifacts, sculptures, and treasures excavated from Ephesus.
✔ Learn more about the daily life of Ephesians through exhibits of tools, coins, and mosaics.
🚖 Afternoon: Return to Hotel & Free Time
✔ Drop-off at your accommodation in the late afternoon.
✔ Relax & enjoy free time—maybe take a short walk around Selçuk’s charming old town or Kuşadası’s beachside promenade.
🍽 Evening: Optional Dinner & Leisure Time
🍽 Dinner Recommendation:
Selcuk: Enjoy a traditional Aegean-style dinner in a small, cozy restaurant with views of the old town.
Kusadasi: Head to a beachfront restaurant, known for fresh seafood & Turkish mezes.
🏨 Overnight in Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)
Today, you have a flexible day to explore the Ephesus region at your own leisure. Whether you prefer shopping, wine tasting, history, or water fun, there are plenty of options to make the most of your time.
🌟 Top Recommended Activities for Your Free Day
🏖 Option 1: Day Trip to Kusadasi – Shopping & Beach (30 min from Selçuk by local bus)
✔ Shop for souvenirs, Turkish textiles, and “genuine fake” designer goods.
✔ Relax at Ladies Beach or Pamucak Beach, both offering great seaside views.
✔ Explore Kusadasi Castle on Pigeon Island, a small historic fortress.
🍷 Option 2: Visit the Charming Wine Village of Sirince (15 min from Selçuk by local bus)
✔ A beautiful, old Greek village known for its narrow cobblestone streets.
✔ Taste homemade fruit wines, including pomegranate, mulberry, and cherry.
✔ Browse local handicrafts, olive oils, and organic products.
✔ Enjoy traditional gozleme (Turkish pancakes) at a village café.
💦 Option 3: Visit a Water Park Near Kusadasi (20 min from Selçuk by taxi or shuttle)
✔ Choose between Adaland Aquapark or Aqua Fantasy, two of Turkey’s largest waterparks.
✔ Enjoy thrilling waterslides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
✔ A great option if you want a fun, refreshing break from sightseeing.
🏺 Option 4: Explore More Historical Sites (Selcuk & Surroundings)
✔ Visit the Basilica of St. John, believed to be the burial site of St. John the Apostle.
✔ Explore the İsa Bey Mosque, one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in the region.
✔ Stop by the Ephesus Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the ancient city.
🍽 Evening: Relax & Enjoy Local Cuisine
🍽 Dinner Recommendations:
Selcuk: Try traditional Aegean home-cooked meals at a cozy, family-run restaurant.
Kusadasi: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant with sunset views.
Sirince: Have a romantic dinner with local wine at a terrace café overlooking the vineyards.
🏨 Overnight in Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)
Today, you’ll explore two of Turkey’s most legendary ancient sites—Troy, the city of the famous Trojan War, and Pergamon, home to one of the greatest ancient libraries and theaters. After the tour, you’ll travel to the Gallipoli region for an overnight stay.
☀️ Early Morning: Pick-Up & Departure from Ephesus Region
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in Selçuk or Kuşadası (around 6:00 AM).
🚍 Drive towards Pergamon (approx. 3.5–4 hours, with a short break on the way).
🏛 Midday: Exploring the Ancient City of Pergamon (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
📍 The Acropolis of Pergamon (Hilltop City with Spectacular Views!)
✔ Walk through one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world.
✔ Explore the Library of Pergamon, which once held 200,000 scrolls.
✔ See the Temple of Athena, dedicated to the city’s patron goddess.
✔ Visit the Temple of Trajan, a stunning Roman structure with panoramic views.
✔ Discover the Lower Agora & Gymnasium, built on terraced levels of the hillside.
✔ Stand in the Hellenistic Theatre, one of the steepest ancient theaters in the world, with a seating capacity of 10,000 people.
✔ Visit the Temple of Dionysus, a sanctuary dedicated to the god of wine & festivities.
🍽 Afternoon: Lunch & Transfer to Troy
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in a local restaurant near Pergamon.
🚍 Drive towards Troy (approx. 3.5–4 hours, with a short rest stop).
🏺 Late Afternoon: Discover the Ancient City of Troy (Myth & History Combined!)
📍 Troy (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
✔ Visit the replica of the famous Trojan Horse, the symbol of the legendary war.
✔ Walk through the 3,700-year-old city walls, dating back to Troy I (3000–2500 BC).
✔ Explore the Sacrificial Altars where offerings to the gods were made.
✔ Visit the Bouleuterion (Senate Building) where city leaders met.
✔ Discover the Odeon (Concert Hall), once used for musical performances.
✔ Learn about the many layers of civilization, from Troy I to Troy IX, showing the city’s long history.
🛑 Fun Fact: Troy was believed to be a myth for centuries until archaeologists uncovered its ruins in the 19th century, proving it was a real city!
🚖 Evening: Transfer to Gallipoli Region (Eceabat or Canakkale)
🚍 Short drive to the Gallipoli region (approx. 1 hour).
🏨 Check-in at your hotel in Eceabat or Canakkale.
🍽 Free evening to relax or explore the waterfront area.
🏨 Overnight in Gallipoli Region (Eceabat or Canakkale)
Today, you’ll step into history as you visit the battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli, a site of heroic sacrifice and friendship between nations during World War I. You will explore the cemeteries, trenches, and war museums before traveling onward to Istanbul in the evening.
🌅 Early Morning: Pick-Up & Departure for Gallipoli Tour
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in Eceabat or Çanakkale (around 7:30–8:00 AM).
🍽 Enjoy breakfast before the tour or pack some snacks for the road.
🚍 Short drive to the Gallipoli Peninsula (approx. 30 min from Eceabat, 1 hour from Çanakkale).
🏛 Full-Day Gallipoli Tour Highlights (A Journey Through History)
📍 Kabatepe Museum (Gallipoli War Museum)
✔ See personal items, photographs, and weapons recovered from the battlefield.
✔ Learn about the events of the Gallipoli Campaign from multiple perspectives.
📍 ANZAC Cove
✔ The landing site of the Australian & New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs) on April 25, 1915.
✔ A serene, picturesque cove that became the site of fierce fighting.
📍 Ari Burnu & Beach Cemetery
✔ Final resting place of many ANZAC soldiers.
✔ Reflect on inscriptions and memorial plaques dedicated to those who served.
📍 Lone Pine Cemetery & Memorial (Australian Memorial Site)
✔ The site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Gallipoli campaign.
✔ The names of 4,228 missing Australian soldiers are inscribed here.
📍 Johnston’s Jolly & The Original Trenches
✔ Walk through preserved trenches and tunnels used during WWI.
✔ See the close proximity between ANZAC and Turkish trenches.
📍 The Nek & Walker’s Ridge
✔ The site of a tragic charge by Australian troops, famously depicted in the movie Gallipoli (1981).
✔ Stand on the battlefield where waves of ANZAC troops fought bravely.
📍 Chunuk Bair Memorial (New Zealand Memorial Site)
✔ The highest point captured by ANZAC forces during the campaign.
✔ The names of missing New Zealand soldiers are honored here.
✔ A statue of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who led the Ottoman troops to victory.
📍 Turkish Memorial at Cape Helles
✔ A tribute to the 86,000 Turkish soldiers who lost their lives during the war.
✔ A symbol of shared sacrifice and respect between nations.
🍽 Afternoon: Lunch & Reflections
✔ Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in Eceabat before departing for Istanbul.
✔ A time to reflect on the heroism, sacrifice, and lasting friendships formed here.
🚖 Evening: Transfer to Istanbul
🚍 Depart for Istanbul (approx. 4.5–5 hours by private coach).
✔ Comfortable drive with scenic views of the Turkish countryside.
✔ Short rest stops along the way for tea/coffee and refreshments.
🏨 Check into your hotel in Istanbul & relax.
🍽 Free evening to explore Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife or enjoy a quiet dinner.
🏨 Overnight in Istanbul
Today, you dive into the history and culture of Istanbul, visiting Ottoman palaces, Byzantine churches, grand mosques, and bustling bazaars. This comprehensive tour offers a perfect introduction to the city’s rich past and vibrant present.
🕘 Morning Pick-up & Start of the Tour
🚖 Pick-up from your accommodation in Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, or Taksim.
👨🏫 Meet your expert guide & begin exploring the Old City.
🕌 Blue Mosque – A Masterpiece of Ottoman Architecture
✔ One of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, built by Sultan Ahmet I in the 17th century.
✔ Features six minarets, a grand courtyard, and beautiful blue İznik tiles inside.
✔ Learn about Islamic traditions and the mosque’s historical significance.
🛑 Note: Limited access on Fridays due to prayer times.
🏛 Hagia Sophia – From Church to Mosque to Museum
✔ Originally built as a Byzantine church in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian.
✔ Converted into a mosque in 1453 by Sultan Mehmed II.
✔ Today, it stands as a symbol of Istanbul’s diverse history, showcasing Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy side by side.
🛑 Note: Hagia Sophia
🏰 Topkapi Palace – The Legacy of Ottoman Sultans
✔ Once the imperial residence of Ottoman Sultans for over 400 years.
✔ Walk through the Imperial Treasury, displaying golden artifacts, Ottoman swords, and holy relics.
✔ Explore the Harem Section (optional entry), where the royal family and concubines lived.
✔ Enjoy stunning views of the Bosphorus from the palace courtyards.
🛑 Note: Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
🛍 Grand Bazaar – One of the World’s Oldest & Largest Markets
✔ Wander through 4,000+ shops selling handmade carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and spices.
✔ Learn the art of Turkish bargaining with local merchants.
✔ A great place to shop for souvenirs and experience Istanbul’s marketplace culture.
🛑 Note: Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
🍽 Lunch Break – Enjoy Traditional Turkish Cuisine
✔ A stop at a local Turkish restaurant for a delicious set menu lunch.
✔ Try kebabs, mezes, lentil soup, or baklava.
🛍 Spice Bazaar – A Sensory Experience
✔ Also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, famous for its exotic spices, Turkish delight, and dried fruits.
✔ Smell the aromas of saffron, cinnamon, and freshly ground Turkish coffee.
✔ A great place to pick up authentic Turkish tea and sweets.
📍 (Optional Free Time After the Tour)
✔ If you wish, you can stay longer to explore the Spice Bazaar on your own before heading back.
🚖 Evening: Return to Your Hotel & Free Time
✔ Drop-off at your hotel in the evening.
✔ Relax and enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant or take a Bosphorus sunset stroll.
🏨 Overnight in Istanbul
Today, you experience the beauty of Istanbul from the water, sailing along the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn, stopping at historical palaces and scenic viewpoints for an unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s past and present.
🕘 Morning Pick-up & Dolmabahce Palace Tour
🚖 Pick-up from your hotel in Istanbul.
👨🏫 Meet your guide and begin the day’s exploration.
📍 Dolmabahce Palace – A Blend of Ottoman & European Elegance
✔ Built in the mid-19th century, serving as the imperial residence of the last Ottoman sultans.
✔ Features grand halls, crystal chandeliers, and European-inspired design.
✔ Visit the Harem section (optional) and Atatürk’s room, where Turkey’s first president passed away in 1938.
🛑 Note: Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays.
🛳 Midday: Bosphorus Cruise – Istanbul from the Water
🚢 Board a comfortable boat for a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait.
✔ Enjoy panoramic views of two continents – Europe & Asia.
✔ Sail past Ortakoy Mosque, known for its pink mosaics & Bosphorus backdrop.
✔ See Maiden’s Tower (Kiz Kulesi), a legendary island structure with a mysterious history.
✔ Pass beneath the Bosphorus Bridge & Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge.
✔ Admire Beylerbeyi Palace, a former summer residence of Ottoman Sultans.
✔ Marvel at Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisarı), built by Mehmed the Conqueror in 1452 to secure the Bosphorus.
📍 Stop at Kucuksu Palace (Small Water Palace)
✔ A hidden gem along the Bosphorus, built as an Ottoman hunting lodge.
✔ Features elegant Rococo-style architecture and luxurious interiors.
🚢 Continue sailing toward the Golden Horn, Istanbul’s natural harbor.
✔ See the ancient walls of Constantinople, built to defend the city for over 1,600 years.
🌅 Afternoon: Pierre Loti Hill – The Best View of the Golden Horn
📍 Cable Car Ride to Pierre Loti Hill
✔ Named after the French writer Pierre Loti, who adored Istanbul.
✔ A romantic hilltop café, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Golden Horn.
✔ Try traditional Turkish coffee or tea while enjoying the view.
🚍 Return by bus through Istanbul’s Old City Walls, with guided commentary on the history of the Byzantine and Ottoman fortifications.
🚖 Evening: Return to Hotel & Free Time
✔ Drop-off at your hotel in Istanbul.
✔ Enjoy your final evening in the city—perhaps a rooftop dinner with a view of the Bosphorus or a relaxing Turkish hammam experience.
🏨 Overnight in Istanbul
Today marks the end of your incredible journey through Turkey. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, we hope you’ve had an unforgettable experience exploring Turkey’s history, landscapes, and culture.
🛫 Airport Transfer & Departure
🚖 Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to the airport (if booked in advance).
🛫 Depart from Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) for your onward flight.
💼 Ensure all travel documents, souvenirs, and belongings are packed before check-out.
🔹 Need Assistance?
If you require:
✔ Additional accommodation in Istanbul.
✔ Further domestic travel arrangements within Turkey.
✔ Recommendations for things to do on a longer stay.
✔ Last-minute shopping, dining, or sightseeing tips.
➡️ We’re happy to help! Feel free to reach out. 😊
💙 Thank You for Traveling with Us!
We hope you had an amazing journey filled with history, adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Turkey again!
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
Olympos :Bayrams Tree Houses, Turkmen Tree Houses, or similar
Cappadocia :Dinler Hotel, Dedeli Konak Cave Hotel, or similar
Ephesus :Ephesus Centrum, Ephesus Palace, or similar
Gallipoli :Anzac House Hostel, Crowded House, or similar
Istanbul :Olimpiyat Hotel, Fehmi Bey Hotel, or similar
Top End
Fethiye :Marina Boutique Hotel, Orka Boutique Hotel, or similar
Olympos :or similar
Cappadocia :Uchisar Kaya Hotel, Ramada Hotel, or similar
Ephesus :Hotel Carina, Celsus Boutique Hotel, or similar
Gallipoli :Grand Anzac Hotel, Hotel Akol, or similar
Istanbul :Golden Royal Hotel, Walton Hotel Galata, or similar
Premium
Fethiye :Ece Saray Marina & Resort, Yacht Classic Hotel, or similar
Olympos :or similar
Cappadocia :Kayakapi Premium Caves, DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, or similar
Ephesus :Cella Boutique Hotel, Akanthus Hotel, or similar
Gallipoli :Limani Hotel, Kolin Hotel, or similar
Istanbul :The Elysium Istanbul, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels Sirkeci, or similar
Fethiye 2 Night
Olympos 1 Night
Cappadocia 2 Night
Ephesus 3 Night
Gallipoli 1 Night
Istanbul 3 Night