Day 1: Welcome to Türkiye! As soon as you land at Istanbul or Sabiha Gokcen airport, your personal driver will be ready and waiting to greet you and provide you private transfer to your pre-booked hotel in Istanbul. Once you’ve settled in, feel free to take it easy and relax in the comfort of your accommodations, as we’ve intentionally left this day free of tours to give you time to adjust and unwind after your journey. We want you to feel refreshed and energized for the exciting adventures that lie ahead!
Day 2: Rise and shine! Get ready for an exciting day ahead as your driver and expert guide will arrive at your hotel between 9-10 am to take you on a full day tour of the historic old city of Istanbul. You’ll visit some of the most iconic and must-see sites, including:
The Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, which boasts intricate blue tiles and elegant minarets that make it a true masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
The Hagia Sophia Museum, a magnificent structure that served as a church, then a mosque, and is now a museum. Marvel at the intricate mosaics, stunning domes, and fascinating history of this architectural gem.
The Topkapi Palace, the former home of Ottoman sultans and their families, which showcases the grandeur and opulence of the Ottoman Empire with its beautiful courtyards, lavish halls, and stunning gardens.
The Grand Bazaar, a bustling covered market that’s been around for centuries, where you can browse and shop for everything from handmade rugs and ceramics to spices and souvenirs.
The Hippodrome of Constantinople, an ancient chariot-racing track that served as the heart of Constantinople’s political and social life.
The Serpentine Column, a fascinating piece of history that’s been standing for centuries, made from bronze serpent coils.
The German Fountain of Wilhelm II, a beautiful fountain donated by the German Emperor to Istanbul in the early 1900s.
After an exhilarating day of sightseeing and exploration, your driver will provide you with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the many fascinating experiences you had today.
Day 3: Get ready for an early start as your driver and expert guide will be waiting for you at your hotel in Istanbul to take you on an approximately 5-hour journey to the historic Gallipoli peninsula. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the picturesque Turkish countryside and stunning views of the Sea of Marmara. Once you arrive, you’ll embark on a fascinating and emotional journey through some of the most important sites of World War I, including:
Anzac Cove, a beautiful and serene beach where the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed in 1915. This site holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Australia and New Zealand and is a significant pilgrimage site for many.
Brighton Beach, where British troops landed in 1915. Here, you’ll learn about the British role in the Gallipoli campaign and appreciate the sheer scale of the operation.
Ariburnu Cemetery, the resting place of many brave soldiers who fought and died in the Gallipoli campaign. This peaceful and solemn site is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
The Anzac Commemorative Site, a beautiful and moving tribute to the ANZAC soldiers who fought and died in Gallipoli. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect and pay your respects to the fallen soldiers.
And that’s not all – you’ll also have the chance to explore other significant sites in Gallipoli and learn about the rich history of the region from your knowledgeable guide.
At the end of your tour, your driver will take you back to your hotel for an overnight stay, where you can reflect on the powerful experiences of the day.
Day 4: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Gallipoli before your driver and guide arrive between 9-10 am to take you on an unforgettable day trip to the fabled city of Troy. Get ready to embark on a journey back in time and explore the ancient ruins of one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit and see the following sites:
The Wooden Trojan Horse, a full-scale replica of the iconic structure that has come to symbolize the legendary Trojan War.
The remains of the nine ancient cities built one over another, which provide a fascinating insight into the rich and complex history of the region over thousands of years.
The Battlefield, where the ancient Greeks fought the Trojans in the legendary Trojan War. Explore the ruins and imagine the epic battles that took place here.
The Roman Theater, a stunning and well-preserved structure that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Admire the impressive architecture and learn about the cultural significance of this remarkable site.
The Greco-Roman Senate Building, an imposing structure that was once the center of political life in ancient Troy. Discover the fascinating political history of the region as you explore the remains of the building.
After your tour in Troy, your driver will take you on a journey to Selcuk or Kusadasi in Izmir, where you will have an overnight stay.
Day 5: Your morning will begin with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a pickup from your driver and guide between 8-9 am for a beautiful journey to visit the site of Ephesus. The ancient city of Ephesus is one of the most well-preserved and popular historical sites in Turkey. During the full day tour, you can expect to see some of the most impressive landmarks and structures from this ancient city, including:
The Celsus Library: This library was one of the largest in the ancient world and held over 12,000 scrolls. The beautiful facade is still standing today.
The Grand Theater: This is one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world and could hold up to 25,000 spectators.
The Temple of Artemis: This was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and is now in ruins, but you can still see the remains of the columns and foundation.
The House of the Virgin Mary: This is believed to be the house where Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived her final years.
In addition to these landmarks, you can also expect to see many other impressive structures and monuments, and your knowledgeable guide will provide you with detailed historical context and interesting stories about each site. Overall, it’s an unforgettable experience for any history or archaeology enthusiast.
Ephesus tour ends between 4:00-4:30 pm. Your driver will take you to the hotel for an overnight stay in Selcuk or Kusadasi.
Day 6: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic drive to Pamukkale. Your personal driver and guide will pick you up between 8-9 am for a journey that takes around 3 hours. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, you will visit the following sites:
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the ancient city of Hierapolis.
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Pamukkale (Cotton Castle), a stunning natural wonder.
Rent private bathing rooms on site to enjoy a relaxing spa experience.
Visit the Cleopatra Swimming Pool and enjoy a refreshing swim.
See the Necropolis, which contains sarcophagi, including the Sarcophagus of Marcus Aurelius.
At the end of your tour in Pamukkale, your driver will take you to your pre-booked hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 7: After breakfast at your hotel in Pamukkale, your private driver and guide will pick you up around 8 am for a long journey to Cappadocia, which will take around 8 hours. Along the way, you will have a nice break at Salda Lake, where you can take a walk and enjoy the scenery.
Upon your arrival in Cappadocia, you will check in to your pre-booked hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 8: After breakfast at your hotel, you will depart with your guide and driver for a full-day tour of Northern Cappadocia. The starting time for this tour is flexible and can be tailored to your preference. During the tour, you will visit the following sites:
On this day you will be departing from the hotel after breakfast, with your guide and driver for a full day tour at Northern Cappadocia. You can define the starting time of this tour to your preference. You will visit the following sites:
Uchisar Castle: Located in the town of Uchisar, this castle is carved out of a natural rock formation and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area. It’s a great spot for a photo opportunity and to get a sense of the geography of Cappadocia.
Pasabag: Also known as Monks Valley, Pasabag is a unique rock formation with interesting geological shapes, including multiple “fairy chimneys,” which are tall, cone-shaped rock pillars. Some of these pillars have been hollowed out and used as dwellings or chapels in the past.
Devrent Valley: This valley is known for its unusual rock formations that resemble animals and other objects. It’s a popular spot for photography and has been nicknamed “Imagination Valley.”
Avanos: A town situated on the banks of the Kizilirmak River, Avanos is famous for its handmade pottery, which has been produced in the area for thousands of years. Visitors can observe the pottery-making process, from the gathering of the clay to the painting and glazing, and even try their hand at making their own pottery.
After your tour, your guide and driver will take you back to your hotel in Cappadocia for another overnight stay.
Day 9: You will meet your driver and guide in the morning between 9-10 am for a tour of the Southern side of Cappadocia. You can define the starting time of this tour to your preference. You will visit the following sites:
Goreme Panorama: A stunning viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the unique rock formations of Cappadocia.
Underground City: An ancient city that was carved underground and has been preserved for centuries. You will have the opportunity to explore the tunnels, rooms, and passages of this fascinating site.
Ortahisar Historical Greek Village: A village that was originally settled by Greek Orthodox Christians and is known for its unique architecture and beautiful surroundings.
Pigeon Valley: A valley with an abundance of pigeon houses that were used to collect pigeon droppings for fertilizer.
Kaledibi Monastery: A 6th-century monastery built into the side of a cliff, featuring ancient frescoes and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
At the end of your trip in Cappadocia, you will have an overnight stay at the hotel before departing for Istanbul the following morning.
Day 10: Your journey over the Anatolian side of Türkiye will come to an end on this morning, with a trip to the European side of Istanbul, where you will have an overnight stay after arrival. Your private driver will pick you up from the hotel in Cappadocia according to your scheduled flight to Istanbul.
Upon your arrival at Istanbul/Sabiha airport, your private driver will be waiting to escort you back to your hotel in Istanbul for an overnight stay.
Day 11: On this day, you will embark on a special tour of Istanbul, exploring both the European and Asian sides of the city with your private guide and driver. This customized private tour will take you to some of the most beautiful and iconic sights in Istanbul.
You will visit the Dolmabahce Palace and have the opportunity to explore its opulent interiors. Then, you will cross the Bosphorus Bridge by car and enjoy panoramic views of the city. On the Asian side of Istanbul, you will visit Camlica Hill, which offers spectacular views of the cityscape.
Next, you will board a private boat and sail on the Bosphorus for over an hour, taking in the stunning scenery from the water. After the boat tour, you will visit Pier Loti Hill for unforgettable views of Istanbul and the Golden Horn. You will also have the chance to explore the Egyptian Bazaar, an ancient covered market, and shop for Turkish souvenirs.
At the end of your tour, your driver will take you back to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 12: This day has been designed to be free of travel and tours, allowing you to have a leisurely day to explore Istanbul at your own pace. You can choose to visit any sites or attractions you may have missed or revisit places you particularly enjoyed. Alternatively, you can take this opportunity to relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel.
Your private driver and guide will be available to offer recommendations and provide transportation if needed. You will have another overnight stay at your hotel in Istanbul.
Day 13: On the thirteenth day, your trip to Türkiye comes to an end. Your private transfer from your hotel in Istanbul to Istanbul Airport will be arranged based on the departure time of your international flight. You can enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and check out before your private driver arrives to take you to the airport.
We hope you had a wonderful time exploring Türkiye and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future.
