Tour

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you’ll be greeted by your local representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel in Istanbul. Take some time to settle in, refresh, and prepare for the start of your journey through one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure.

A Grand Introduction to the City of Empires

At 9:00 AM, meet your professional tour guide in the hotel lobby and set out on a half-day guided tour exploring the historic heart of the city.

Begin at the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of Byzantine Constantinople. Learn about the chariot races and imperial ceremonies that once took place here, and view monuments such as the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column.

Next, step inside the iconic Blue Mosque, famed for its stunning domes, six elegant minarets, and interior covered in over 20,000 handmade Iznik tiles in hues of blue.
Continue to the mysterious Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir supported by hundreds of marble columns — a silent and atmospheric space that once stored water for the Great Palace of Constantinople.

Conclude your tour with a visit to the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a marvel of architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s layered history. Once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, Hagia Sophia reflects the city’s deep cultural and religious heritage.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon with the evening at your leisure to relax or explore the nearby Old City streets and enjoy your first taste of Istanbul’s vibrant ambiance.
Meals: Breakfast

Palaces, Bazaars & Bites – A Full Day in Timeless Istanbul

After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide for a full-day exploration of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage, grand imperial monuments, and vibrant culinary traditions.

Start your day at the iconic Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for over four centuries. Wander through its lavish courtyards, elegant pavilions, and the dazzling Treasury, home to legendary artifacts such as the Topkapı Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. Your guide will bring the stories of palace life, politics, and intrigue to life as you walk in the footsteps of emperors.

Next, step into the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops lining its colorful alleys, it’s the perfect place to witness traditional craftsmanship, haggle for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the kaleidoscope of sights and sounds.

Continue to the magnificent Süleymaniye Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture built by the famed architect Sinan. Perched on one of Istanbul’s seven hills, it offers not only spiritual grandeur but also sweeping views over the Golden Horn.

From there, head to the Rustem Pasha Mosque, a hidden gem known for its exquisite İznik tilework and intimate charm. Though smaller than other imperial mosques, it stands out for its artistic beauty and peaceful ambiance.

The final historical stop of the day is the Spice Market (Mısır Çarşısı), where the air is filled with the scent of saffron, sumac, and Turkish delight. Let your guide introduce you to the market’s history and the culinary traditions it has supported for centuries.
Then shift from history to flavor with a street food tasting tour, starting right outside the Spice Market. This late lunch experience will take you through some of the best-loved local bites — such as simit, köfte, stuffed mussels, börek, or freshly squeezed pomegranate juice — depending on the season and the day’s vendors.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening, with a full belly and a deeper appreciation for the layers of Istanbul’s culture, cuisine, and community.

Gallipoli – A Journey Through History

After an early breakfast, depart Istanbul and drive toward the Gallipoli Peninsula, a place of deep historical and emotional significance for Turkey, Australia, and New Zealand. The scenic journey will take you along the northern coast of the Sea of Marmara, with a short ferry crossing over the Dardanelles Strait before reaching the Gallipoli battlefields.

Upon arrival, embark on a half-day guided tour of the key sites from the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Visit Anzac Cove, where Australian and New Zealand troops first landed in April 1915, and reflect on the hardships they faced in the rugged terrain. Continue to Lone Pine Cemetery, the site of one of the fiercest battles and the resting place of many fallen soldiers.

Your guide will also take you to Chunuk Bair, where New Zealand troops made a courageous stand, and to the Turkish Memorial at 57th Infantry Regiment, which honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Ottoman forces. The tour offers a moving, balanced perspective on the campaign, highlighting the shared losses and heroism on both sides.

Following your visit, continue to the town of Çanakkale, located just across the strait. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure in this lively harbor town.
Meals: Breakfast

From Troy to Selçuk – Legends, Looms & Local Flavors

After breakfast in Çanakkale, begin your journey south with a visit to the ancient city of Troy, where myth and history come together. During your guided tour, walk through the ruins of this once-mighty city, explore its defensive walls, and hear the epic tale of the Trojan War and the legendary wooden horse.

Next, explore the nearby Troy Museum, a world-class archaeological museum that showcases remarkable artifacts unearthed from Troy and surrounding sites. The exhibits offer an in-depth look at the many layers of settlement that make this area so culturally rich.

Continue your journey toward Selçuk, stopping near Bergama for a special visit to a traditional carpet weaving atelier. Here, enjoy a homemade lunch prepared with locally sourced Aegean ingredients, then gain insight into one of Turkey’s most iconic crafts. Watch as local women demonstrate age-old weaving techniques, using natural dyes and hand-spun wool, and learn about the meanings behind traditional patterns and regional styles.

After the visit, continue your drive through olive groves and countryside to reach Selçuk in the late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure in this historic town, nestled in the shadow of the ancient city of Ephesus.
Meals: Breakfast /Lunch

Ephesus, Artemis & A Taste of Village Life in Şirince

After breakfast, meet your guide for a full-day cultural journey through some of the most treasured historical and local highlights of the region.

Begin with a guided tour of Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk the marble-paved streets and explore the grandeur of the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Roman baths. Your guide will bring to life the stories of this once-thriving Roman metropolis, a center of trade, culture, and early Christianity.

Next, make a brief stop at the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though only a few columns remain today, your guide will explain its historical importance and the influence it had on the ancient world.

From there, continue to the charming hillside village of Şirince, known for its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, boutique wine shops, and welcoming locals. Here, you’ll be invited into a traditional village home for a warm and authentic homemade lunch, prepared with seasonal ingredients and local flavors.

After lunch, enjoy some time to wander through Şirince’s streets, browse local handicrafts, and perhaps sample some of the village’s famous fruit wines before returning to your hotel in Selçuk.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch

Pamukkale – Natural Wonders

After breakfast, depart from Selçuk and enjoy a scenic drive inland to Pamukkale, one of Turkey’s most iconic natural and historical destinations.

Upon arrival, begin your guided tour with the stunning travertine terraces, known as the “Cotton Castle.” These brilliant white calcium formations, created by mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside, offer a surreal landscape that’s both visually breathtaking and geologically fascinating. You’ll have time to walk along the terraces and dip your feet into the warm, healing waters — just as visitors have done for thousands of years.

Continue your visit with a guided tour of Hierapolis, the ancient Roman spa city that was built above the terraces. Explore the remarkably preserved Roman theatre, the grand necropolis, ancient baths, and the Temple of Apollo, all of which reflect the city’s importance as a center for healing and spirituality in antiquity.

Your guide will share insights into how Hierapolis served as a sanctuary for those seeking wellness, blending mythology, medicine, and daily life in this once-thriving city.

After the tour, check in to your hotel in Pamukkale and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure — perhaps taking a dip in a thermal pool to continue the ancient tradition of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Meals: Breakfast

Drive to Kaş – A Day to Relax by the Turquoise Coast

After breakfast, depart Pamukkale and begin your journey south toward the charming coastal town of Kaş, nestled along the Turkish Riviera. The drive offers beautiful views as you descend from the inland plains toward the Mediterranean, passing through pine forests, small villages, and glimpses of the sea.

Arrive in Kaş in the early afternoon and check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Kaş is a laid-back town known for its whitewashed houses with bougainvillaea-draped balconies, crystal-clear waters, and friendly, artistic atmosphere. Spend your free time wandering its cobbled streets, browsing local boutiques and artisan shops, enjoying a seaside lunch, or simply relaxing at one of the town’s inviting beach platforms or cafés overlooking the bay.

Whether you choose to swim, shop, or sip Turkish coffee by the harbor, Kaş offers the perfect balance of charm, sea, and serenity.
Meals: B

Sunken Cities & Crystal Waters – Full-Day Boat Tour in Kekova

After breakfast, depart from Kaş and drive along the stunning Mediterranean coastline to Kekova, a region renowned for its serene waters, ancient ruins, and hidden coves.

Upon arrival, board a shared full-day boat tour and set off to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Kekova Island area. Cruise along the shoreline of the Sunken City of Kekova, where the remains of ancient buildings, staircases, and harbor walls can be seen submerged beneath the clear turquoise waters — remnants of a Lycian settlement partially lost to earthquakes centuries ago.

Throughout the day, the boat will stop at scenic bays and secluded swimming spots, allowing you to dive into the refreshing Mediterranean or simply relax on deck and soak in the views.

A freshly prepared lunch will be served on board, typically featuring local favorites such as grilled fish or chicken, salads, and traditional meze, enjoyed in a peaceful bay with panoramic coastal views.

In the late afternoon, return to the harbor and drive back to Kaş, where you’ll have the evening at your leisure — perfect for watching the sunset or enjoying a relaxed seaside dinner.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch

From Coast to Culture – Perge, Antalya Museum & Kaleiçi

After breakfast, depart Kaş and enjoy a scenic drive eastward to Antalya, the vibrant gateway to Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a full-day exploration of the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Begin your tour at the ancient city of Perge, once a major Roman city in the region of Pamphylia. Walk along its impressive colonnaded streets, admire the well-preserved Roman theater, stadium, and the ruins of baths and fountains that reflect the city’s former grandeur. Your guide will share stories of Perge’s connection to Alexander the Great and early Christian history.

Continue to the Antalya Archaeological Museum, one of Turkey’s finest. Here, you’ll encounter an extraordinary collection of sculptures, sarcophagi, mosaics, and artifacts from nearby ancient cities such as Perge, Aspendos, and Side. The museum provides a deeper understanding of the civilizations that shaped the region for thousands of years.

Finish the day with a walking tour of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s charming Old City. Stroll through its narrow, cobbled streets lined with Ottoman-era houses, boutique shops, and lively cafés. Highlights include Hadrian’s Gate, the Clock Tower, and views of the harbor from the Roman-era walls.

After the tour, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure — perhaps with dinner in the Old Town or by the waterfront.
Meals: Breakfast

Waterfalls & Flavors – A Relaxed Day in Antalya

Enjoy a free morning in Antalya to unwind and take in the coastal charm at your own pace. You might choose to relax at your hotel, stroll through the Old Town’s atmospheric streets, or sip coffee overlooking the marina — the time is yours to enjoy.
In the late morning, meet your guide and drive to the beautiful Düden Waterfalls, located just outside the city. Surrounded by lush greenery, these cascading falls create a cool, tranquil oasis where you can walk behind the curtain of water and take in the natural beauty of the area.

After visiting the falls, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Şelale Restaurant, a local favorite set beside flowing streams and shaded by trees. Savor freshly grilled meats, mezes, and regional specialties in a peaceful garden setting, accompanied by the relaxing sound of water.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon with the rest of the day at leisure — perfect for some shopping, a sunset walk, or an optional Turkish bath experience.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch

From the Coast to Cappadocia – Arrival & First Taste of the Land

After breakfast, transfer to Antalya Airport for your domestic flight to Kayseri, the gateway to central Anatolia. Upon arrival, meet your driver and begin the scenic drive to Cappadocia, a region unlike anywhere else on earth — known for its surreal rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and rich cultural traditions.

Upon arrival and hotel check-in, stretch your legs with an orientation walk through the nearby village or town (such as Göreme or Ürgüp), where your guide will introduce you to local life, key landmarks, and hidden corners you can explore in your free time.

In the early evening, step into the atmospheric world of Cappadocia’s cave wine culture with a wine tasting session in a traditional cave cellar. Sample regional wines made from Anatolian grapes such as Kalecik Karası and Öküzgözü, while learning about the region’s ancient winemaking heritage — a practice dating back to the Hittites.

Enjoy a relaxed evening in this magical setting as you settle into Cappadocia’s unique rhythm and ambiance.
Meals: Breakfast

Cappadocia – Sky High Views & Underground Wonders

Rise early for an unforgettable optional hot air balloon ride (weather permitting). As dawn breaks, float silently over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock-cut villages, lit by the soft morning light. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers breathtaking views and a magical start to your day.

After breakfast, set out with your guide for a full-day tour of Cappadocia’s cultural and geological treasures.

Begin at the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a cluster of rock-hewn churches, monasteries, and chapels adorned with well-preserved Byzantine frescoes — a powerful testament to early Christian monastic life in the region.

Next, head to Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia. Climb partway or simply admire its towering structure, carved into a massive rock formation, offering panoramic views over the valleys below.

Continue to Pigeon Valley, named after the countless pigeon houses carved into the soft volcanic rock. Learn about the historical role of these birds in Cappadocian agriculture and enjoy a short walk through the picturesque landscape.

In the afternoon, visit a local onyx workshop, where you’ll observe a demonstration of stone carving and polishing — a traditional craft in the region. Learn how this semi-precious volcanic stone is transformed into beautiful jewelry and decorative objects.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon with time to relax or explore your surroundings at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast

Cappadocia – Colors, Craft, and Underground Cities

After breakfast, meet your guide for another enriching day exploring the wonders of Cappadocia, with a focus on its natural beauty, craftsmanship, and ancient subterranean life.

Begin with a visit to the Three Beauties of Ürgüp, one of Cappadocia’s most iconic photo stops. These fairy chimney formations, often symbolizing the region, are steeped in local legend and provide a perfect backdrop for panoramic photos.

Continue to the stunning Red Valley (Kızılçukur), known for its vibrant red and rose-hued rock formations that shift color throughout the day. Enjoy a gentle walk through this scenic valley, surrounded by towering cliffs, hidden churches, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the modern day.

Next, head to the pottery town of Avanos for a demonstration at a UNESCO-recognized heritage atelier. Watch skilled artisans craft traditional ceramics using techniques passed down through generations — and even try your hand at shaping the local red clay, drawn from the banks of the Kızılırmak River.

In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Özkonak Underground City, a multi-level complex carved deep into the volcanic rock. Originally built as a refuge from invasions, this subterranean city features tunnels, kitchens, wineries, ventilation shafts, and ingenious defense systems. Your guide will help you navigate its narrow passageways and reveal the secrets of life underground in ancient times.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon with a deeper appreciation for the artistry, resilience, and natural beauty that make Cappadocia so extraordinary.
Meals: Breakfast

Cappadocia to Istanbul

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Kayseri Airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel in the city.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore Istanbul at your own pace. You might choose to revisit favorite sites, take a leisurely walk along the Bosphorus, browse local boutiques in Karaköy or Galata, or simply relax at a café and watch the city move around you.

After days of discovery and cultural immersion, this afternoon offers a perfect balance of flexibility and freedom in one of the world’s most captivating cities.
Meals: Breakfast