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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 your arrival in Istanbul, our team will meet you at the airport with a personalized welcome and provide a comfortable transfer to your boutique hotel in Sultanahmet, the heart of the city's historic district. Located 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 relax 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
Best of Istanbul Walking Tour – Explore the Historic Old City
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Istanbul’s Old City, discovering its most iconic landmarks. At 09:00 AM, our expert guide will pick you up from your hotel for a full-day exploration of the city's rich history and culture.
Visit the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, admire the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque, and step into history at the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine social life. Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.
At the end of the tour, our guide will escort you back to your hotel. Enjoy your free time in the evening and overnight stay in Istanbul’s Old City.
Day 3
Enjoy a Free Day in Istanbul – Top Attractions & Recommended Tours
Today, you have a free day to explore Istanbul at your own pace. Make the most of your time by choosing from a variety of exciting day tours and activities, including:
- Bosphorus Cruise – Sail between two continents and admire Istanbul’s skyline.
- Dolmabahçe Palace & Beylerbeyi Palace – Discover the grandeur of Ottoman architecture.
- Çamlıca Hill & Pierre Loti Hill – Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
- Golden Horn & City Walls – Walk through history in Istanbul’s oldest districts.
- Eyüp Mosque & Süleymaniye Mosque – Visit two of the most significant religious landmarks.
- City Sightseeing Bus Tour – Explore the city's highlights on a hop-on-hop-off tour.
- Princes' Islands Tour – Escape the city's hustle and enjoy a peaceful island retreat.
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise – Experience a magical evening with stunning views and entertainment.
- Islamic Art Museum – Discover centuries of artistic heritage.
- Spice Bazaar & Mahmutpaşa Bazaar – Shop for authentic spices, textiles, and souvenirs.
- Kadıköy – Explore the vibrant Asian side of Istanbul, full of culture and local flavors.
Whatever you choose, Istanbul promises an unforgettable experience!
Day 4
Flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia & Full-Day South Cappadocia Tour
Start your Cappadocia adventure with an early morning transfer from your hotel at 5:00 AM to the airport for a 1-hour flight to Cappadocia at 07:00 AM. Upon arrival, our team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to our office in Göreme.
At 10 AM, embark on a full-day South Cappadocia tour, exploring some of the region’s most fascinating sights:
Discover the natural and historical wonders of Cappadocia on this immersive tour, featuring stunning landscapes, ancient settlements, and underground cities.
- Uchisar Castle – The highest point in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Once a strategic lookout, this ancient fortress was a vital settlement for defense.
- Rose Valley (Kızılçukur) – Famous for its unique red rock formations, this 3.5 km hiking trail is perfect for nature lovers. Explore ancient cave dwellings and rock-cut churches dating back to the 5th century. The valley’s colors shift with the daylight, making it an ideal sunset spot.
- Cavuşin Village – One of the earliest Christian settlements, home to Cappadocia’s oldest church (3rd century). Wander through ancient cave dwellings and admire the striking rock formations, partially collapsed due to a landslide in 1960.
- Love Valley (White Valley) – A surreal landscape featuring uniquely shaped fairy chimneys, offering one of the most iconic views in Cappadocia.
- Underground City (Özkonak or Kaymaklı) – Explore one of Cappadocia’s most fascinating underground cities, used by Hittites and early Christians as a refuge during invasions. Walk through tunnels connecting living spaces, kitchens, food storage areas, and churches, while discovering advanced ventilation and defense systems.
- Pigeon Valley – A scenic viewpoint where you can observe ancient pigeon houses carved into the rock. These structures were historically used for collecting pigeon droppings to fertilize vineyards.
At 16:30 – 17:00, transfer back to your hotel 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 stunning landscapes of Cappadocia.
- 05:30 AM – Hotel pickup and transfer to the balloon departure point.
- 07:30 AM – After an incredible flight, return to your hotel for breakfast before your next adventure.
At 10 AM, embark on a full-day Northern Cappadocia tour, exploring the region’s most famous landmarks:
- Göreme Panorama – Enjoy breathtaking views of Cappadocia with Uçhisar Castle in the background.
- Göreme Open-Air Museum – Discover the best-preserved rock-cut churches with ancient frescoes.
- Avanos – Stop for lunch in this historic town, famous for its pottery tradition.
- Pottery Workshop – Watch a kick-wheel pottery demonstration and try crafting your own piece.
- Çavuşin Village – Walk through this ancient settlement with rock-cut houses.
- Devrent Valley – See the famous animal-shaped rock formations, including the Camel Rock.
- Paşabağ (Monks Valley) – Admire the mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and visit St. Simeon’s monk cell.
At the end of the tour, transfer back to hotel and overnight in Goreme-Cappadocia
Day 6
Cappadocia to Izmir by Plane & Overnight Stay in Kuşadasi
Arrival in Izmir & Transfer to Kusadasi
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, then enjoy a convenient airport transfer for your one-hour flight to Izmir. Upon arrival in Izmir, our driver will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Kusadasi.
You will be staying at the Ilayda Avante Garde Hotel or a similar accommodation. After checking in, you’ll have the rest of the day free to relax at your hotel or explore the charming seaside town of Kusadasi, known for its vibrant atmosphere, scenic coastline, and historical sites.
Day 7
Daily Ephesus Tour (B, L)
Ephesus Day Tour – Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
08:00 AM – Hotel Pickup
Begin your Ephesus adventure with a convenient pickup from your hotel.
09:00 AM – Arrival in Ephesus
Start your tour by visiting the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk through its grand entrance and experience the historical significance of this incredible site.
Visit the Temple of Artemis
Explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and learn about its rich history.
Explore the Celsus Library
Admire the impressive Celsus Library, an architectural masterpiece that once housed over 12,000 scrolls.
The Great Theatre of Ephesus
Discover the Great Theatre, a massive structure with a seating capacity of 25,000, and imagine the performances held here during ancient times.
House of the Virgin Mary
Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the final residence of Mary, mother of Jesus, and a significant pilgrimage site.
Lunch Break
Enjoy a delicious local lunch in a nearby restaurant, offering traditional Turkish dishes.
Explore the Ephesus Archaeological Museum
After lunch, visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum to see artifacts and sculptures recovered from the ancient city.
Return to Hotel
End your day tour with a transfer back to your hotel, filled with memories of the ancient world.
Day 8
Pamukkale Day Tour – Discover the Natural Wonder of Cotton Castle & Overnight in Pamukkale
Start your day with a quick breakfast at your hotel before your guide picks you up at 7:30 AM for the scenic 3-hour bus ride to Pamukkale. Upon arrival around 11:00 AM, the tour will begin with a delicious traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, your guide will take you on a fascinating tour of the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, where you’ll explore the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Following the tour, enjoy two hours of free time to explore at your own pace. You can visit the archaeological museum, take a swim in the famous Cleopatra's Pool, or head to the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, where you can wade through the thermal waters and marvel at the stunning white formations.
To end the tour, your guide will take you to the base of Pamukkale for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
Afterward, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Pamukkale town, where you will have the rest of the evening free to relax or explore on your own.
Day 9
Prviate transfer to Antalya hotel
Transfer to Antalya & Free Evening in Kaleici
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you'll be transferred to Antalya in a private vehicle. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel located in Kaleici, the historic old town of Antalya, known for its charming streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and vibrant atmosphere.
After checking in, you will have the rest of the evening free to relax, explore the historic area, or enjoy the seaside beauty of Antalya.
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 the historic sites around Antalya.
Your first stop will be the ancient city of Perge, which dates back to around 1,500 B.C. when it was settled by the Hittites. Explore the ancient ruins and marvel at the well-preserved structures.
Next, you will visit Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in Turkey, renowned for its stunning architecture and acoustics.
Afterward, enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, continue the tour to Kursunlu Waterfall, a peaceful natural site surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Finally, head to Manavgat Waterfall, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views and take stunning photos.
At the end of the tour, our guide will return you to your hotel in Antalya, where you can relax and enjoy the rest of your evening.
Day 11
Private Transfer from Antalya to Demre & 4-Day Blue Cruise from Demre to Fethiye
4-Day Blue Cruise: Private Transfer from Antalya to Demre & Day 1 Overview
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before our driver picks you up at 8:30 AM. You’ll be transferred in a private vehicle to Demre, where you will check-in for the 4-day Blue Cruise.
After a satisfying lunch on the boat, your first destination will be Pirates Cave, where you’ll have time to swim and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.
Next, sail to the Kekova Sunken City, a fascinating site with ancient Roman ruins submerged in the sea. While swimming is not allowed, you’ll be able to view the ruins from the boat.
The cruise continues to Simena, a charming town where you’ll have time to explore its castle and enjoy some water sports if you wish.
In the evening, you can relax with a dinner at Pirate’s Haven or join the vibrant atmosphere at Smuggler’s Inn for a fun-filled night.
The day ends with a restful night aboard the boat, setting the stage for the next adventures on your Blue Cruise.
Day 12
Sail to Kalkan & Kas
Sailing to Kas Harbor & Firnaz Bay
Start your day with a delightful breakfast on board before setting sail towards Kas Harbor. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and take some time to explore this charming fisherman’s village. You can also visit the area’s ancient Lycian tombs and the Roman theater, both rich in history and offering incredible photo opportunities.
Afterward, continue your journey and sail to Firnaz Bay, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing dinner on the boat and spend the night surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Day 13
The Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz & St. Nicholas Island
Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz & St. Nicholas Island Day Tour
Start your day early as the boat sails to Butterfly Valley, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunrise while having breakfast on board. Afterward, you’ll have time to explore the Butterfly Reserve, home to over 130 different species of butterflies.
Next, head to Oludeniz, renowned for its stunning coastline. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to try paragliding and soar over one of the most scenic beaches in the world.
The final stop of the day will be St. Nicholas Island, where you can explore the well-preserved Byzantine ruins and enjoy a breathtaking sunset from the island’s highest point.
Conclude your day with a delicious dinner aboard the boat and enjoy your final evening on the water, surrounded by natural beauty.
Day 14
Arrive in Fethiye & Flight to Istanbul
Sailing to Samanlik Bay & Departure to Fethiye for Flight to Istanbul
After breakfast, set sail towards Samanlik Bay, where you can enjoy a relaxing swim and a delicious lunch on board. In the afternoon, the boat will dock at Fethiye Harbor around 2:00 PM.
Once you disembark from the boat, our driver will be waiting to transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul or 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
