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14-Day "Best of Turkey" Tour – Explore Turkey’s Rich History, Culture & Natural Wonders
Embark on the ultimate 14-day "Best of Turkey" tour, offering a comprehensive experience of Turkey's most iconic destinations. This all-inclusive journey covers Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Antalya, providing the perfect balance of cultural, historical, and natural exploration.
- Istanbul: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Istanbul, visiting iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque.
- Cappadocia: Soar above the surreal fairy chimneys of Cappadocia on a hot air balloon ride, then explore ancient underground cities and cave dwellings.
- Ephesus: Walk through the ancient city of Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Pamukkale: Relax in the stunning thermal hot springs of Pamukkale, also known as the Cotton Castle, and rejuvenate in the healing waters of Cleopatra’s Pool.
- Antalya: Experience the beauty of Antalya, with its stunning beaches and ancient ruins.
The tour also includes a 4-day Blue Cruise along the Turquoise Coast, where you'll sail through crystal-clear waters, visit picturesque islands, and explore secluded beaches.
With guided tours, accommodation, meals, and transfers included, this tour provides a hassle-free way to explore Turkey. Additional activities are available, ensuring you get the most out of this unforgettable journey through Turkey’s cultural, historical, and natural gems.
Itineraries
Day 1
Seamless Arrival & Stay in Istanbul’s Historic Old City
Upon arrival in Istanbul, our team will warmly welcome you at the airport and provide a comfortable transfer to your boutique hotel located in Sultanahmet, the vibrant heart of the city’s historic district. Just steps away from Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, your hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. After check-in, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace or unwind before beginning your unforgettable journey. Your first night in Istanbul’s Old City promises an authentic and immersive experience in this fascinating metropolis.
Day 2
Istanbul Old City Walking Tour – Explore the Heart of Historic Istanbul
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Istanbul’s Old City, uncovering its most iconic landmarks. At 09:00 AM, our expert guide will pick you up from your hotel for a full-day journey through the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Visit the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque, and step back in time at the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine social life. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. At the end of the tour, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, leaving you free to enjoy your evening and overnight stay in Istanbul’s Old City.
Day 3
Enjoy a Free Day in Istanbul – Top Attractions & Recommended Tours
Today is your chance to explore Istanbul at your own pace and discover what makes this city so special. Choose from a variety of exciting day tours and activities to suit your interests. Sail the Bosphorus Strait and admire Istanbul’s stunning skyline from the water, or visit the grand Ottoman palaces of Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi. For breathtaking city views, head to Çamlıca Hill and Pierre Loti Hill. Wander through the historic Golden Horn and ancient city walls, or visit the sacred Eyüp and Süleymaniye Mosques. Hop on a sightseeing bus tour to explore the city’s highlights with ease, or take a relaxing ferry ride to the peaceful Princes' Islands. In the evening, enjoy a magical Bosphorus dinner cruise with spectacular views and entertainment. Dive into centuries of artistic heritage at the Islamic Art Museum, shop for spices and souvenirs at the vibrant Spice Bazaar and Mahmutpaşa Bazaar, or explore the lively Asian side of Istanbul in Kadıköy, known for its culture and local flavors. Whatever you choose, Istanbul guarantees an unforgettable experience!
Day 4
Flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia & Full-Day South Cappadocia Tour
Begin your Cappadocia adventure with an early morning transfer from your hotel at 5:00 AM to the airport for a 1-hour flight departing at 7:00 AM. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to our office in Göreme to start your full-day South Cappadocia tour at 10:00 AM. Explore the region’s stunning landscapes and rich history, starting with Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views and ancient fortress remains. Wander through Rose Valley, known for its striking red rock formations and ancient cave churches, and visit Cavuşin Village, home to Cappadocia’s oldest church dating back to the 3rd century. Discover the surreal fairy chimneys of Love Valley, then delve into the mysterious Underground City of Özkonak or Kaymaklı, where ancient tunnels and living spaces reveal advanced engineering from early civilizations. Finally, take in the scenic views of Pigeon Valley, famous for its rock-carved pigeon houses used to fertilize vineyards. After an immersive day, you will be transferred back to your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 PM for a relaxing evening.
Day 5
Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride & Full-Day North Cappadocia Tour
Start your day with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia. At 5:30 AM, enjoy a hotel pickup and transfer to the balloon departure site, followed by a stunning flight that concludes around 7:30 AM, after which you’ll return to your hotel for breakfast. At 10:00 AM, set out on a full-day Northern Cappadocia tour featuring iconic sights: take in panoramic views from Göreme Panorama with Uçhisar Castle in the background; explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum’s well-preserved rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes; visit Avanos, a historic town renowned for its pottery tradition, where you can enjoy lunch and try your hand at pottery during a workshop demonstration; stroll through the ancient rock-cut houses of Çavuşin Village; marvel at the unique animal-shaped formations in Devrent Valley, including the famous Camel Rock; and admire the mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys of Paşabağ (Monks Valley), including a visit to St. Simeon’s monk cell. After a full day of exploration, you will be transferred back to your hotel for an overnight stay in Göreme, Cappadocia.
Day 6
Cappadocia to Izmir by Plane & Overnight Stay in Kuşadası
Begin your day with a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before enjoying a smooth transfer to the airport for your one-hour flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, a driver will greet you and escort you to your hotel in Kuşadası, where you will stay at the Ilayda Avante Garde Hotel or a similar accommodation. After check-in, spend the rest of the day at your leisure—either unwind at the hotel or explore the charming seaside town of Kuşadası, famed for its lively atmosphere, beautiful coastline, and rich historical sites.
Day 7
Daily Ephesus Tour (B, L)
Begin your day at 8:00 AM with a convenient hotel pickup, then head to Ephesus for an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities. Arriving at 9:00 AM, explore the grand entrance and delve into the rich history of this remarkable site. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, then admire the stunning architecture of the Celsus Library, which once held over 12,000 scrolls. Discover the vast Great Theatre, capable of seating 25,000 spectators, and visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site believed to be her final home. Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at a nearby restaurant before continuing to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum to view fascinating artifacts and sculptures from the ancient city. The tour concludes with a transfer back to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of Ephesus’s ancient wonders.
Day 8
Pamukkale Day Tour – Discover the Natural Wonder of Cotton Castle & Overnight in Pamukkale
Start your day with a quick breakfast before your guide picks you up at 7:30 AM for a scenic 3-hour bus ride to Pamukkale. Upon arrival around 11:00 AM, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a guided tour of the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in Roman history. After the tour, take two hours of free time to explore on your own—visit the archaeological museum, swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, or wander the stunning white travertine terraces, soaking in the warm thermal waters. Your guide will then lead you to the base of Pamukkale for a memorable photo opportunity before transferring you to your hotel in Pamukkale town, where you can relax or explore at your leisure for the evening.
Day 9
Private Transfer to Antalya Hotel
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Antalya in a private vehicle. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel located in Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic old town, famous for its charming streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and lively atmosphere. After settling in, enjoy a free evening to relax, explore the historic district, or take in the beautiful seaside views of Antalya at your own pace.
Day 10
Daily Tour of Perge, Aspendos, Kursunlu Waterfall & Manavgat
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before our guide picks you up at 8:30 AM for a full-day tour of historic and natural highlights around Antalya. Begin by exploring the ancient city of Perge, dating back to around 1,500 B.C., where you can admire well-preserved ruins from the Hittite era. Next, visit Aspendos, famous for its remarkably intact Roman theater known for its impressive architecture and acoustics. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, relax with a visit to Kursunlu Waterfall, a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful walk. Finish your day at Manavgat Waterfall, where you can take in beautiful views and capture stunning photos. The tour concludes with a return transfer to your Antalya hotel, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the rest of your evening.
Day 11
Private Transfer from Antalya to Demre & 4-Day Blue Cruise from Demre to Fethiye
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before a private vehicle transfers you to Demre at 8:30 AM, where you’ll check in for an unforgettable 4-day Blue Cruise. After a satisfying lunch on board, your first stop is Pirates Cave, offering a perfect spot to swim and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. Next, cruise to the Kekova Sunken City, where you can marvel at ancient Roman ruins submerged beneath the sea—swimming is prohibited here, but the view from the boat is stunning. Continue to Simena, a charming town where you can explore its historic castle and partake in optional water sports. In the evening, unwind with dinner at Pirate’s Haven or soak up the lively atmosphere at Smuggler’s Inn for a fun night out. Your day concludes with a restful night aboard the boat, ready for more adventures along the beautiful Turkish coastline.
Day 12
Sailing to Kas Harbor & Firnaz Bay
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast on board before sailing to Kas Harbor. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and explore this charming fisherman’s village, including visits to ancient Lycian tombs and the Roman theater—both steeped in history and perfect for memorable photos. Later, continue your journey to Firnaz Bay, where you’ll savor a relaxing dinner on the boat and spend the night surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Day 13
Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz & St. Nicholas Island Day Tour
Start your day early with a scenic boat ride to Butterfly Valley, enjoying a beautiful sunrise and breakfast on board before exploring the Butterfly Reserve, home to over 130 butterfly species. Next, visit Oludeniz, famous for its stunning coastline, where you can try paragliding over one of the world’s most picturesque beaches. The day concludes at St. Nicholas Island, where you’ll explore well-preserved Byzantine ruins and watch a breathtaking sunset from the island’s highest point. End your tour with a delicious dinner aboard the boat, savoring your final evening surrounded by natural beauty.
Day 14
Sailing to Samanlik Bay & Departure to Fethiye for Flight to Istanbul
After breakfast, set sail to Samanlik Bay for a relaxing swim and a delicious lunch on board. In the afternoon, the boat will dock at Fethiye Harbor around 2:00 PM. Upon disembarking, our driver will be ready to transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul or onward to your next destination, marking the end of your unforgettable Blue Cruise experience.
All Airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary
All flight tickets with taxes
All bus transfers and hotel transfers mentioned in the itinerary
All meals mentioned by the itinerary (B-breafast, L-lunch, D-dinner)
7-day small Group tour mentioned by the itinerary (Guide, Lunch, Transportation and all entrance fees
11-Night Boutique hotel with breakfast in the city centers.
3 Night 4day Gulet Cruise with all meals -Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Standard yacht equipment, board games, snorkels & masks, fishing lines. Passengers may bring snacks, such as fruit, nuts, muesli, yoghurt, chocolate and other
Vegeterian meals
Full travel insurance
Dinner
Drinks
Tips
Archeological sites and national park entrance fees on the cruise
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