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14 Days
Specific Tour
99 people
Ümit
This 14-day journey is designed for travelers who wish to experience Türkiye through its cultural heartlands, combining imperial history, volcanic landscapes, classical antiquity, and refined coastal life along the Aegean and Bodrum Peninsula.
The tour begins in Istanbul, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires is explored through UNESCO-listed monuments, historic neighborhoods, and a cross-continental Bosphorus experience. From Istanbul, the journey continues to Cappadocia, a region shaped by volcanic geology and early Christian heritage, explored through panoramic valleys, underground cities, village life, and local culinary traditions.
The route then shifts westward to the Aegean region, starting in Izmir and Urla, where modern urban life meets long-standing wine culture and coastal traditions. Classical antiquity takes center stage at Ephesus, Aphrodisias, and Pamukkale, offering insight into Greco-Roman urbanism, art, and sacred landscapes.
The final stage of the journey unfolds in Bodrum, ancient Halicarnassus, where history blends with contemporary Aegean lifestyle. With time dedicated to leisure, exploration, and relaxation, the tour concludes with a balanced coastal finish.
Domestic flights are strategically included to reduce long driving days, ensuring comfort, smooth transitions, and a well-paced rhythm between guided sightseeing and free time.
Arrival in Istanbul and meet & greet at the airport. Transfer to your hotel in the city center. The remainder of the day is free to rest after your international flight or take a short walk in the surrounding neighborhood to gain a first impression of the city. Optional in the afternoon or evening: a traditional Turkish hamam experience, offering an introduction to Ottoman bathing culture and local wellness traditions. Overnight in Istanbul.
Today explores the historic core of Istanbul, shaped by the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires over more than fifteen centuries. Begin at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the ceremonial and social center of the Byzantine capital. Continue to the Blue Mosque, admired for its balanced proportions and refined classical Ottoman design, followed by Hagia Sophia, one of the most influential monuments in world history, renowned for its monumental dome and layered religious past. In the afternoon, visit Topkapı Palace, the former residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans. The Harem Section provides insight into palace life, hierarchy, and court traditions. Conclude the day at the Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir and masterpiece of Byzantine engineering. Overnight in Istanbul.
Begin the day in Beyoğlu, the historic European quarter shaped by 18th–19th century modernization. Walk along İstiklal Street, once the heart of the city’s diplomatic, cultural, and commercial life. Visit Galata Tower, originally built by the Genoese, offering panoramic views over the Golden Horn, Old City, and Bosphorus, providing a clear geographic orientation of Istanbul. Later, explore the Spice Market (Egyptian Bazaar), a continuation of Ottoman-era trade networks, followed by Rüstem Pasha Mosque, celebrated for its exceptional İznik tile decoration. The day concludes with a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between Europe and Asia past palaces, fortifications, and waterfront mansions. Overnight in Istanbul.
Begin with a visit to the Chora Church (Kariye), one of the finest examples of late Byzantine art, renowned for its detailed mosaics and frescoes. Continue with a walk through the historic neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, located along the Golden Horn, where churches, synagogues, mosques, and traditional houses reflect centuries of layered urban life. Cross to the Asian side by ferry and explore Kadıköy, one of Istanbul’s most vibrant local districts. Enjoy lunch at Çiya Restaurant, known for its regional Anatolian cuisine. In the late afternoon, transfer to the airport for an evening flight to Cappadocia. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Optional early morning hot air balloon flight, offering an aerial perspective over Cappadocia’s valleys, fairy chimneys, and volcanic formations. Later, begin at Uchisar Castle, the region’s highest natural viewpoint, providing an overview of Cappadocia’s settlement patterns and valley systems. Continue to a panoramic stop in Love Valley, followed by a walk through Paşabağ, where fairy chimneys can be explored up close, illustrating the region’s geological formation. Visit Saruhan Caravanserai, a well-preserved Seljuk-era inn and a key example of medieval Anatolian trade routes. Lunch is taken in Avanos, followed by a traditional pottery workshop reflecting the town’s artisan heritage. The day concludes at Devrent Valley, known for its naturally sculpted rock formations. Overnight in Cappadocia.
This day focuses on Cappadocia’s historical depth and early settlement patterns. Visit the Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO), home to rock-cut churches decorated with frescoes illustrating early Christian monastic life. Continue to Kaymaklı Underground City, one of the region’s largest subterranean complexes, built as a shelter and refuge over centuries. Proceed to Sobesos Ancient City, a lesser-known Roman-era site, followed by a walk through Mustafapaşa (old Sinasos), known for its stone mansions and multicultural heritage. End the day with panoramic views from Ortahisar. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Begin with a gentle hike in Red Valley, known for its colorful volcanic layers and scenic viewpoints. Continue to Çavuşin Village, one of the oldest settlements in Cappadocia, where rock-cut dwellings reflect early habitation patterns. Later, take part in a hands-on cooking class, introducing regional Anatolian dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. The experience concludes with a local wine tasting, highlighting Cappadocia’s long-standing viticulture shaped by volcanic soil and climate. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Izmir. Overnight in Izmir.
Explore Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city, known for its seafront promenades, lively squares, and relaxed Aegean atmosphere. Continue to the Urla Peninsula, a center of boutique wine production rooted in ancient Ionian traditions. Visit a local winery and enjoy tastings among vineyards overlooking the Aegean Sea. Overnight in Izmir.
Drive to Şirince Village, known for its preserved architecture and village atmosphere. Continue to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, including the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and marble-paved streets. Overnight in Şirince.
Visit Aphrodisias (UNESCO), renowned for its sculpture school and exceptionally preserved stadium. Continue to Pamukkale, where white travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis combine natural beauty with Roman heritage. Return to Şirince in the evening. Overnight in Şirince.
Drive south along the Aegean coast, visiting Didyma, home to the monumental Temple of Apollo, one of antiquity’s most important oracle centers. Continue to Bodrum (ancient Halicarnassus) and enjoy a city orientation walk, introducing the harbor, old town, and Aegean lifestyle. Overnight in Bodrum.
A full day at leisure to enjoy Bodrum, whether relaxing by the sea, exploring independently, or joining optional activities. Overnight in Bodrum.
Another free day to enjoy Bodrum’s coastal atmosphere, beaches, cafés, and waterfront promenades at your own pace. Overnight in Bodrum.
Transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your journey through Türkiye’s imperial cities, volcanic landscapes, classical Aegean heritage, and Mediterranean coast.
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