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Experience the Best of Turkey in 12 Days
This 12-day journey takes you through Turkey’s most captivating landscapes, from the ancient streets of Istanbul to the magical rock formations of Cappadocia and the breathtaking Mediterranean coastline. Explore historical battlefields, underground cities, ancient ruins, and turquoise waters, all while experiencing the warm hospitality and rich traditions of Turkey. Whether you’re sailing through the Aegean, walking through ancient cities, or relaxing in a seaside paradise, this itinerary is designed to immerse you in the best of Turkey.
Tour Highlights & Itinerary
- Private guided tour of Istanbul’s Old Town, exploring its legendary palaces, mosques, and bazaars.
- Visit the battlefields of Gallipoli, where history was shaped during World War I.
- Marvel at the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, with an optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
- Cruise along the Mediterranean on a 4-day yacht trip, stopping at hidden coves, ancient ruins, and charming coastal villages.
- Try paragliding over Oludeniz, soaring above one of the world’s most scenic beaches.
- Explore Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces, a natural wonder formed over thousands of years.
- Optional whitewater rafting adventure in Antalya, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul – Welcome to Turkey!
Your journey begins in the magical city of Istanbul, the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Upon arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your carefully selected 4-star or boutique hotel.
After check-in, take a guided orientation walk around your hotel’s neighborhood to get a feel for Istanbul’s energy. From lively streets filled with cafés and street vendors to stunning views of the Bosphorus, this short walk introduces you to the city’s incredible atmosphere.
Your evening is free to explore at your own pace. You can choose to dine at a traditional Turkish restaurant, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus, or simply relax before your adventure begins.
Day 2: Gallipoli – A Journey Through History
After an early morning departure, you will travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula, one of the most historically significant battlefields of World War I.
During this small-group tour, you will visit:
- ANZAC Cove – The landing site of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps in 1915, now a place of remembrance and tribute.
- Lone Pine Cemetery – A moving memorial dedicated to fallen Australian soldiers.
- Chunuk Bair – A high ridge offering stunning views and a Turkish perspective on the Gallipoli campaign.
Day 3: Istanbul Old Town – Private Guided Tour & Flight to Cappadocia
Today, experience a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich history with a private guided tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks:
- Hagia Sophia – One of the greatest architectural masterpieces in the world, with Byzantine mosaics, grand domes, and a unique history as a cathedral, mosque, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Blue Mosque – An iconic structure known for its six minarets and intricate blue Iznik tiles. Step inside to admire its stunning Ottoman architecture.
- Basilica Cistern – A hidden underground world built by the Byzantines, famous for its Medusa-head columns and mystical atmosphere.
- Topkapi Palace – The grand residence of Ottoman sultans, where you can see royal jewels, holy relics, and breathtaking views of the Bosphorus.
- Grand Bazaar – A labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, where you can browse for handmade carpets, ceramics, spices, and jewelry.
In the evening, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia, where a private driver will take you to your boutique cave hotel, a unique and cozy accommodation built into the region’s rock formations.
Day 4: Northern Cappadocia – Fairy Chimneys & Valleys (Small Group Tour)
Today, explore the surreal landscapes of Northern Cappadocia, where volcanic rock formations have been sculpted by wind and time into fairy chimneys and valleys.
- Göreme Open-Air Museum – A UNESCO-listed site with rock-hewn churches and ancient frescoes dating back to the 10th century.
- Devrent Valley – Also known as Imagination Valley, this area features bizarre rock formations resembling animals.
- Pasabag (Monk’s Valley) – Home to some of the tallest and most striking fairy chimneys in the region.
- Uçhisar Castle – A natural rock fortress offering panoramic views of Cappadocia’s unique landscape.
Day 5: Southern Cappadocia – Underground Cities & Valleys (Small Group Tour)
- Hot Air Balloon Ride (optional) – Float above Cappadocia’s otherworldly rock formations at sunrise (weather permitting).
- Derinkuyu Underground City – A massive subterranean refuge, once home to thousands of early Christians hiding from persecution.
- Ihlara Valley – A lush canyon perfect for a scenic hike along the Melendiz River, where you’ll pass by hidden rock-cut churches.
- Selime Monastery – A dramatic cliffside monastery carved into the rock, offering incredible views.
- Pigeon Valley – A picturesque valley dotted with ancient pigeon houses.
Day 6: Free Day & Flight to Antalya
Spend a relaxed morning in Cappadocia, with free time to explore at your own pace. Visit a local pottery workshop, enjoy a Turkish bath, or take a scenic hike before your evening flight to Antalya.
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Olympos, a charming coastal retreat surrounded by lush forests and ancient ruins.
Day 7: Olympos – Relaxation & Optional Whitewater Rafting
Enjoy a leisurely day in Olympos, where you can:
- Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Olympos Beach.
- Explore the ruins of ancient Olympos, including Roman baths, sarcophagi, and an amphitheater.
- Optional: Whitewater Rafting in Antalya – For those seeking adventure, join an exhilarating rafting tour on the Köprülü Canyon River, including hotel transfers and lunch.
Day 8-11: 4-Day Blue Cruise – Sailing the Mediterranean (Small Group Tour)
Your next adventure begins with a four-day sailing trip along Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast. Aboard a traditional wooden gulet, you’ll explore secluded bays, ancient ruins, and charming coastal towns.
Day 8: Olympos to Kekova & Gökkaya Bay
- Depart from Olympos and sail towards Kekova, home to Turkey’s famous Sunken City, an ancient Lycian settlement submerged beneath the crystal-clear waters.
- Visit Pirate’s Cave, a sea cave once used by smugglers.
- Hike up to Simena Castle, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kekova Bay.
- Anchor for the night in Gökkaya Bay, a serene cove perfect for swimming and stargazing.
Day 9: Kas & Fırnaz Bay
- Wake up to breakfast on deck, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.
- Sail to the charming town of Kas, where you can wander through its whitewashed streets, explore local markets, and enjoy seaside cafés.
- Continue to Fırnaz Bay, where you’ll anchor for the night in a peaceful, scenic spot.
Day 10: Paragliding Over Oludeniz & Butterfly Valley
- Arrive at Oludeniz, one of Turkey’s most stunning beaches, famous for its Blue Lagoon and dramatic cliffs.
- Optional: Paragliding Over Oludeniz – Experience an exhilarating tandem flight, soaring high above the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of Oludeniz.
- Continue sailing to Butterfly Valley, home to waterfalls and diverse butterfly species, where you can swim or take a short hike.
- Anchor for the night near St. Nicholas Island, where you can explore ancient ruins and watch the sunset from a scenic viewpoint.
Day 11: Arrival in Fethiye
- Enjoy a morning swim in the Mediterranean before arriving in Fethiye.
- Disembark from the cruise and take a short bus ride to Pamukkale for an overnight stay.
Day 12: Pamukkale – Thermal Pools & Ancient Hierapolis (Small Group Tour)
- Visit Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces, a breathtaking natural wonder formed by mineral-rich thermal waters.
- Explore Hierapolis, an ancient Greco-Roman city, home to:
- The well-preserved Roman theater, which once seated 12,000 people.
- The Necropolis, an ancient cemetery filled with stunning sarcophagi.
- Cleopatra’s Pool, a thermal spring where you can swim among submerged ancient columns.
In the evening, take a domestic flight back to Istanbul, where your guided tour officially ends.
What’s Included?
✅ Carefully selected 4-star and boutique hotels, including a cave hotel in Cappadocia.
✅ Daily breakfast at hotels.
✅ Lunches included during all guided tours.
✅ Private airport transfers and domestic flights.
✅ Private guided Old Town tour in Istanbul and small-group tours throughout the rest of the itinerary.
✅ Optional hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.
✅ 3-night, 4-day yacht cruise with all meals included.
✅ Optional paragliding in Oludeniz.
✅ Optional whitewater rafting in Antalya, with hotel transfers and lunch included.
What’s Not Included?
❌ Drinks during lunches.
❌ Dinners (except meals on the yacht).
❌ Tips and personal expenses.
Plan Your Turkish Adventure
This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the fairytale landscapes of Cappadocia and the tranquil Mediterranean bays, every destination on this itinerary is a unique experience waiting to be discovered.
Looking for something different? We offer customizable itineraries to match your travel style. Whether you want to:
- Spend extra days exploring Istanbul’s vibrant neighborhoods.
- Add a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus.
- Embark on a food tour through Gaziantep, Turkey’s culinary capital.
- Extend your time on the Aegean Coast with stops in Bodrum.
📩 Contact us today to plan your dream Turkish adventure!
