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8-Day Istanbul to the Aegean: Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon & Ephesus

A Human-Scale Journey Through Battlefields, Ancient Cities, and Living Landscapes

Metin by Metin
January 5, 2026
in 8-Day Tours, Aegean Coast, Greek, Roman Empire, Turkey Tours
Reading Time: 9 mins read
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You have 8 days to explore Turkey and you’re wondering how to use your time as efficiently as possible? You’ve come to the right place!

Table of Contents

Introduction: 8-Day in Istanbul + the Aegean

This thoughtfully designed 8-day journey connects Turkey’s most meaningful historical landscapes — from imperial Istanbul and the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli to the legendary cities of Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, and the natural wonder of Pamukkale.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Planned with careful pacing and expert guidance, the route balances depth, comfort, and storytelling, allowing each destination to be experienced rather than rushed.

Day 1 - Arrival in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia from Seven Hills Restaurant with the archaological excavation of Magnaura Palace

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you will be met by our team and transferred privately to your hotel.

The rest of the day is left free to rest after your journey or enjoy a gentle introduction to the city surroundings.

  • Overnight in Istanbul

Day 2 - Istanbul Old City Tour

Blue Mosque of Istanbul

After breakfast, meet your professional guide for a full-day exploration of Istanbul’s historic peninsula.

Highlights include:

  • Hagia Sophia – A masterpiece of Byzantine and Ottoman history

  • Blue Mosque – Famous for its elegant domes and Iznik tiles

  • Hippodrome of Constantinople – The heart of ancient city life

  • Topkapi Palace – Home of Ottoman sultans for centuries

  • Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest covered markets

The tour is conducted at a comfortable pace with curated explanations rather than rushed sightseeing.

  • Overnight in Istanbul

Day 3 - Istanbul Gallipoli Peninsula

Gallipoli Cemetery

Early departure from Istanbul toward the Dardanelles.

Guided visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula, including:

  • ANZAC Cove

  • Lone Pine Cemetery

  • Chunuk Bair

  • Key memorials and battlefield viewpoints

This day offers historical context and quiet reflection, presenting Gallipoli from multiple perspectives.

  • Overnight in the Çanakkale / Gallipoli area

Day 4 – Troy & Pergamon

After breakfast, depart from the Gallipoli / Çanakkale area toward Troy, one of the most legendary archaeological sites in the ancient world.

Guided visit to Troy Ancient City, where your guide explains the archaeological layers of the city and the historical reality behind Homer’s Iliad and the Trojan War.

Following the visit, continue south toward Pergamon.

In the afternoon, explore the Pergamon Acropolis, dramatically set above the modern town of Bergama. Highlights include the royal acropolis, steep hillside theatre, Temple of Trajan, and insights into Hellenistic urban life.

After the visit, continue the drive to the Aegean coast.

  • Overnight in Kuşadası

Day 5 - Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary

After breakfast, depart for a full-day guided visit to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean.

Highlights include the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, Marble Road, Curetes Street, agora, and Roman baths. The visit focuses on daily life, commerce, religion, and the city’s importance during Roman and early Christian periods.

After Ephesus, continue to the House of the Virgin Mary, set in a peaceful forested environment above the ancient city.

  • Overnight in Kuşadası

Day 6 - Kuşadası to Pamukkale

arly departure from Kuşadası toward Pamukkale.

Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, including the Necropolis, Roman theatre, and ancient baths.

Walk along the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale and learn about the natural formation of the thermal waters and their historical use.

After the visit, transfer to the airport for an evening flight to Istanbul.

Upon arrival, private transfer to your hotel.

  • Overnight in Istanbul

Day 7 - Istanbul Two Continents Tour

After breakfast, meet your guide for the Two Continents Tour, exploring both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

Highlights include:

  • Bosphorus Cruise

  • Crossing the Bosphorus Bridge from Europe to Asia

  • Çamlıca Hill panoramic views

  • Visit to Eyüp Sultan Mosque and the tomb of Eyüp Ensari, one of the most sacred sites in Istanbul

  • Scenic views from Pierre Loti Hill, overlooking the Golden Horn

  • Selected viewpoints or exterior visits depending on timing

Return to the hotel in the afternoon.

  • Overnight in Istanbul

Day 8 - Departure from Istanbul

Airport Transfer- Final Goodbye- Mercedes Vito Van transport

After breakfast, private transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

This marks the end of your 8-Day Istanbul to the Aegean journey, thoughtfully combining imperial history, classical archaeology, natural wonders, and the unique geography of Istanbul.

What’s Included

The price includes all services listed below, as part of our carefully planned itinerary.

  • Expert local guidance
  • Comfortable private transport
  • Carefully selected accommodation
  • Domestic flights as specified
  • Guided sightseeing and route planning

What’s Not Included

The price does not include the following items unless otherwise stated.

  • International flights
  • Meals and drinks
  • Entrance fees to sites
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities

Ready to Book? Get in touch with us now.

Smyrna Bar in Cihangir - The Other Tour Istanbul 2026 (1)

Travel with confidence on a carefully curated 8-day journey across Turkey’s most meaningful landscapes.

Get in touch to confirm availability and begin planning your experience.

Another 8-Day Turkey Tour

Similar but different

This one doesn’t do Gallipoli, Troy and Pergamon and instead uses that time to focus on Istanbul.

LEARN MORE
Tags: Aegean SeaAncient CivilizationsEphesusIstanbulIstanbul TripIstanbul VisitPergamonTurkey TourUnique Itinerary
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Metin

Metin

Metin Çobanoğlu is the founder and owner of Before Travel, a trusted travel agency based in Sultanahmet, Istanbul. Originally from Demre, Antalya, Metin brings years of experience, professionalism, and strong ethical values to the world of Turkish tourism. In 2025, Metin joined forces with Fethi Karataş, the founder of The Other Tour, to expand the scope and quality of our Turkey tours. This partnership strengthens our ability to design diverse itineraries, provide top-tier guides, and deliver seamless services across the country. Metin recently published his first Turkey tour itinerary on theothertour.com, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter of collaboration. Beyond business, Metin is also a trusted friend of our team—someone whose reliability and integrity make him a perfect partner as we continue to grow. Together, we are proud to offer travelers unique, immersive, and authentic experiences throughout Turkey, built on friendship, trust, and a shared passion for discovery.

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Comments 3

  1. Ash says:
    2 days ago

    Looking for approx quotations for all inclusive 7-8 nights package for Turkey covering all major attactions for family of 4- 2 Adults and 2 kids (age 12,8) in June 2026. 4-5 star hotels. Dates not yet fixed.

    Reply
    • TheOtherTour says:
      2 days ago

      Hi Ash! Thanks for your message — we’d be happy to put together an approximate all-inclusive 7–8 night Turkey package for your family (2 adults + kids aged 12 & 8) in June 2026 with 4–5 star hotels. We have just replied your inquiry via email – please check our inbox. If it’s not there, please check your spam folder as our emails include a few links and they might have wrongly flagged. Looking forward to hosting you in Türkiye in 2026.

      Reply
  2. Andrew C. says:
    16 hours ago

    This 8-day Aegean tour was one of the best experiences of our trip to Turkey!

    The itinerary was perfectly balanced — we saw amazing coastal towns, cultural sites, delicious food spots, and had plenty of time to relax too. Our guide was friendly and very knowledgeable, always making sure we were comfortable and informed.

    Accommodation, transfers, and the pace of the days were ideal. Highly recommend this tour if you want a deep and enjoyable exploration of the Aegean region!

    Reply

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