Grand Turkey: Archaeological & Cultural Odyssey

Discover Türkiye from west to east on an immersive 15-day private tour through more than 10,000 years of history, culture, and civilization.

From the imperial landmarks of Istanbul and the battlefields of Gallipoli to the ancient cities of Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, and Lycia, this comprehensive journey continues along the Mediterranean coast before reaching the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and the ancient Hittite capital of Hattusa.

Designed for travelers who want to experience Türkiye beyond its most famous highlights, this private itinerary combines archaeology, history, culture, mythology, UNESCO World Heritage sites, local traditions, and extraordinary landscapes in one remarkable journey across Anatolia.

Why Choose the Grand Turkey Archaeological & Cultural Odyssey?

15 Days Across Türkiye

Travel from Istanbul to Ankara, crossing the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts and continuing through Central Anatolia.

Ancient Civilizations & Empires

Explore the heritage of Romans, Greeks, Byzantines, Ottomans, Lycians, Hittites, Lydians, and Seljuks through their cities, monuments, museums, and sacred sites.

Private & Flexible Travel

Enjoy a private vehicle and professional licensed guide throughout the journey, allowing the itinerary to be adapted around your interests, pace, and travel preferences.

Türkiye’s Major Archaeological Highlights

The route includes Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Pamukkale, Xanthos, Kekova, Perge, Aspendos, Cappadocia, and Hattusa, alongside many lesser-known historical sites.

Grand Turkey Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – Istanbul: Welcome to the Historic Capital

Istanbul Airport Arrival

Meet your private driver at Istanbul Airport and transfer to your hotel in the historic Old City.

Hippodrome of Constantinople

Begin exploring Istanbul’s historic center at the ancient Hippodrome, once a major center of public life and entertainment during the Roman and Byzantine periods.

Blue Mosque

Visit the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most recognizable Ottoman landmarks, known for its elegant architecture and Iznik tile decoration.

Hagia Sophia

Discover Hagia Sophia, an extraordinary monument whose history spans the Byzantine and Ottoman periods and reflects Istanbul’s unique position between civilizations.

Topkapi Palace

Explore Topkapi Palace, the principal residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries and home to imperial collections and sacred relics.

Grand Bazaar

End the day at the historic Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s most famous covered markets.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Lunch

Day 2 – Bosphorus, Spices & Byzantine Heritage

Spice Bazaar

Explore the Spice Bazaar, where stalls filled with spices, dried fruits, Turkish delight, and traditional products create one of Istanbul’s most colorful shopping experiences.

Bosphorus Cruise

Cruise between Europe and Asia along the Bosphorus and admire historic waterfront mansions, palaces, mosques, and fortifications.

Süleymaniye Mosque

Visit Süleymaniye Mosque, one of the masterpieces of Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan.

Chora Museum (Kariye)

Discover the Byzantine artistic heritage of the Chora complex, renowned for its mosaics and frescoes.

Overnight: Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Day 3 – Gallipoli & the Dardanelles

Gallipoli Battlefield

Travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula and visit important sites associated with the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I.

See locations including:

• Anzac Cove
• Lone Pine
• Chunuk Bair (Conkbayırı)
• Commonwealth and Turkish memorial sites

Crossing the Dardanelles

Cross the Dardanelles by ferry and continue into the Asian side of Türkiye.

Overnight: Çanakkale
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 4 – Troy & Pergamum

Troy Ancient City

Explore Troy, the legendary city associated with Homer’s Iliad.

Discover archaeological layers representing thousands of years of settlement and see the replica wooden horse associated with the city’s legendary story.

Pergamum Acropolis

Continue to Pergamum, once the capital of the powerful Pergamon Kingdom.

Take the cable car toward the Acropolis and explore its monumental remains, including the ancient theatre and Temple of Trajan.

Asclepion of Pergamum

Visit the ancient Asclepion, an important center of medicine associated with the physician Galen.

Overnight: Izmir
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 5 – Ephesus: The Jewel of Ionia

Izmir City Highlights

Begin with a short visit to Izmir’s historic center, including the Clock Tower and Kemeraltı Bazaar.

Ephesus Ancient City

Walk through the marble streets of Ephesus, one of the most important ancient cities of the eastern Mediterranean.

Explore:

• Celsus Library
• Great Theatre
• Marble Street
• Temple of Hadrian
• Ancient public buildings

Temple of Artemis

Visit the remains of the Temple of Artemis, traditionally counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Basilica of St. John

Continue to the Basilica of St. John, traditionally associated with the burial place of the Apostle John.

Şirince Village

End the day in Şirince, a charming historic village known for its traditional architecture and local products.

Overnight: Kuşadası
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 6 – Aphrodisias & Pamukkale

Aphrodisias Ancient City

Visit Aphrodisias, an ancient city famous for its marble sculpture tradition and impressive Roman architecture.

Pamukkale Travertines

Walk across the designated areas of the brilliant white Pamukkale travertines, created by mineral-rich thermal waters.

Hierapolis Ancient City

Explore Hierapolis, the ancient spa city built above the thermal springs, including its extensive necropolis and monumental remains.

Overnight: Pamukkale thermal hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 7 – Priene, Miletus & Didyma

Priene Ancient City

Explore Priene, renowned for its ancient urban planning and Temple of Athena.

Miletus

Continue to Miletus, an important ancient center of philosophy, science, trade, and culture.

Didyma & Temple of Apollo

Visit Didyma, famous for its monumental Temple of Apollo and ancient oracle tradition.

Bafa Lake

Travel through the scenic landscape around Bafa Lake before continuing toward Bodrum.

Overnight: Bodrum
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 8 – Bodrum & Dalyan

Bodrum Castle

Visit Bodrum Castle, home to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and an important collection of maritime archaeological discoveries.

Mausoleum of Halicarnassus

See the remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, another monument traditionally included among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Dalyan River Cruise

Travel to Dalyan and board a private boat.

Cruise through the reed-lined river while viewing the impressive Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs.

İztuzu Beach

Continue to İztuzu Beach, an important nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).

Overnight: Fethiye
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 9 – Lycian Heritage

Kayaköy

Walk through Kayaköy, a historic abandoned settlement whose stone houses provide a striking reminder of the region’s 20th-century history.

Saklıkent Gorge

Explore Saklıkent Gorge, one of the most spectacular canyons in southwestern Türkiye.

Xanthos Ancient City

Continue to Xanthos, the ancient capital of the Lycian League and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Patara

Visit Patara, one of Lycia’s most important ancient cities, and enjoy time at the famous Patara Beach.

Overnight: Kaş
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 10 – Kekova, Myra & Phaselis

Kaş

Enjoy views across the Mediterranean from the historic coastal town of Kaş.

Kekova Boat Trip

Board a boat to explore the Kekova region and view the submerged remains of the ancient settlement commonly known as the Sunken City of Kekova.

Myra Ancient City

Continue to Myra, famous for its monumental Lycian rock-cut tombs and Roman theatre.

St. Nicholas Church

Visit the historic Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, associated with Nicholas of Myra.

Phaselis

Explore the ancient harbor city of Phaselis, surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean coastline.

Overnight: Antalya
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 11 – Aspendos, Perge & Antalya

Aspendos Ancient Theatre

Visit Aspendos, renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre.

Perge Ancient City

Explore Perge, an important ancient city of Pamphylia with monumental gates, colonnaded streets, baths, and public buildings.

Antalya Museum

Discover archaeological collections from the region, including important sculptures and artifacts from ancient Pamphylian cities.

Kaleiçi Old Town

Finish the day exploring Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic old town, with its narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, harbor, and historic landmarks.

Overnight: Antalya
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 12 – Side, Konya & the Silk Road

Side Ancient City

Visit the ancient coastal city of Side and its famous Temple of Apollo overlooking the Mediterranean.

Taurus Mountains

Travel north through the Taurus Mountains toward Central Anatolia.

Konya & Mevlana Museum

Visit Konya, an important center of Seljuk history and Sufi culture.

Explore the Mevlana Museum, associated with the renowned Sufi mystic and poet Rumi.

Sultanhanı Caravanserai

Continue toward Cappadocia with a stop at Sultanhanı Caravanserai, an impressive Seljuk-era structure along the historic Silk Road.

Arrival in Cappadocia

Arrive in Cappadocia in the evening and check into your hotel.

Overnight: Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 13 – Cappadocia: Fairy Chimneys & Underground Cities

Optional Hot Air Balloon Flight

Start the morning with an optional Cappadocia hot air balloon flight at sunrise, subject to weather and aviation conditions.

Göreme Open-Air Museum

Explore the rock-cut churches and monastic spaces of the Göreme Open-Air Museum, known for its historic frescoes.

Kaymaklı Underground City

Descend beneath the surface at Kaymaklı Underground City and explore its interconnected tunnels, rooms, storage areas, and living spaces.

Paşabağ (Monks Valley)

Walk among Cappadocia’s distinctive mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.

Devrent Valley

Discover unusual volcanic rock formations in Devrent Valley, including the famous camel-shaped formation.

Pigeon Valley

Enjoy panoramic views across Pigeon Valley and its rock-cut dovecotes.

Avanos Pottery

Visit Avanos and experience its long-established pottery tradition beside the Kızılırmak River.

Overnight: Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 14 – Hittite Heritage: Hattusa & Alacahöyük

Journey to Hattusa

Leave Cappadocia and travel toward Hattusa, the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire.

Hattusa Ancient City

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and discover monumental remains including:

• Lion Gate
• Royal Gate
• City walls
• Great Temple
• Historic stone structures

Yazılıkaya Sanctuary

Visit Yazılıkaya, an open-air rock sanctuary featuring impressive Hittite reliefs depicting deities and royal figures.

Alacahöyük

Continue to Alacahöyük, an important archaeological site with monumental gates and ancient royal burial remains.

Overnight: Ankara
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 15 – Ankara & Farewell

Museum of Anatolian Civilizations

Begin the final day at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, home to important archaeological collections representing many of the civilizations encountered during the journey.

Anıtkabir

Visit Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and one of Ankara’s most important national landmarks.

Ankara Airport Transfer

After sightseeing, transfer to Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) for your onward flight.

End of the Grand Turkey Archaeological & Cultural Odyssey.

Tour Package Details

What Is Included?

Accommodation

• 14 nights of accommodation
• Selected hotel category
• Carefully chosen hotels along the route

Meals

• Daily breakfast
• 14 lunches
• 12 dinners

Private Transportation

• Private luxury vehicle
• Mercedes Sprinter, midibus, or suitable vehicle depending on group size
• Professional driver

Professional Guide

• Licensed English-speaking tour guide
• Experienced in Turkish history, archaeology, and culture

Entrance Fees

Entrance fees to the museums, ancient cities, archaeological sites, and attractions listed in the itinerary.

Included Experiences

• Bosphorus Cruise
• Dalyan River Boat Trip
• Kekova Boat Trip
• Pergamum Acropolis cable car
• Airport transfers

What Is Not Included?

• Domestic flights
• Drinks during meals
• Dinners in Istanbul
• Optional activities such as the Cappadocia hot air balloon flight
• Personal expenses
• Tips for guide and driver
• Visa fees

Important Information

Walking & Physical Activity

This is an extensive cultural and archaeological tour involving regular walking through ancient cities, archaeological sites, museums, valleys, and uneven terrain.

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and appropriate clothing are strongly recommended.

Private Tour Flexibility

Because this is a private journey, the pace and selected experiences can be discussed before booking. Travelers interested in archaeology, photography, food, religious heritage, or local culture can request itinerary adjustments where practical.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is the Grand Turkey Archaeological & Cultural Odyssey?

The tour lasts 15 days and 14 nights, beginning in Istanbul and ending in Ankara.

Which regions of Türkiye does the tour visit?

The itinerary travels through Istanbul, the Dardanelles, the Aegean coast, the Mediterranean coast, Central Anatolia, Cappadocia, and Ankara.

Which ancient civilizations can I discover?

The journey explores the heritage of Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Lycians, Lydians, Hittites, Seljuks, and Ottomans, among others.

Is Cappadocia included?

Yes. The itinerary includes a full day of Cappadocia sightseeing, with an optional hot air balloon flight.

Is the hot air balloon flight included?

No. The Cappadocia hot air balloon flight is an optional activity and depends on weather and aviation conditions.

Is this tour suitable for history lovers?

Yes. The itinerary is particularly suited to travelers interested in archaeology, ancient civilizations, historical sites, architecture, mythology, and cultural heritage.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. The Grand Turkey tour is designed as a private tour with private transportation and a professional licensed English-speaking guide.

Are domestic flights included?

Domestic flights are not included in the standard package but can be arranged upon request.

Book the Grand Turkey Archaeological & Cultural Odyssey

From the imperial streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Troy, from the Lycian coast and the sunken city of Kekova to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and the Hittite capital of Hattusa, this is a journey across the civilizations that shaped Anatolia.

Contact Travel Mart Türkiye to check availability, customize the itinerary, select your hotels, and receive the best price for your travel dates.

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• Cappadocia Express: The Essentials (1 Night / 2 Days)
• Cappadocia Highlights: Fairy Chimneys & Underground City (All-in-One Day)
• The Best of Cappadocia: Goreme National Park & Fairy Chimneys (red tour)
• Classic Cappadocia: The Complete 3-Day Experience
• The “All-In-One” Cappadocia Experience: 3 Days of Magic
• Cappadocia to Salt Lake
• Step into the Capital of the Hittite Empire – Discover Hattusa from Cappadocia
• Walking the Land of Fairy Chimneys: 4-Day Trekking Package / (Cappadocia Hiking Tour – 3 Nights / 4 Days)
• Cappadocia Cooking Class: Taste the Culture of Anatolia / (4-Hour Private or Small Group Workshop)
• Cappadocia from Istanbul: The Ultimate 2-Day Escape (Flights Included)
• Cappadocia & Southeast Turkey: Nemrut, Gobeklitepe, Urfa / (6 Days / 5 Nights – Journey to the Origins of Civilization)
• Cappadocia & West Turkey: The Ancient Route / (5 Days / 4 Nights – From Fairy Chimneys to the Aegean Sea)
• Grand Turkey Tour: Cappadocia, Mediterranean & Aegean / (7 Days / 6 Nights – History, Nature & Sea)
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• Cappadocia Standard Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Cappadocia Comfort Deluxe Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Cappadocia VIP Private Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Soğanlı Valley Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Cat Valley Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Ihlara Valley Hot Air Balloon Flight
• Pamukkale Hot Air Flight