Asia Minor Archaeological Odyssey: From Ephesus to Antalya

Step into the ancient world on a 10-day archaeological tour of Türkiye, following the footsteps of Greeks, Romans, Lycians, Lydians, and other civilizations across the Aegean and Mediterranean regions.

From the monumental ruins of Pergamum and Ephesus to the white travertines of Pamukkale, the ancient cities of Lycia, the sunken ruins of Kekova, and the spectacular Roman theatre of Aspendos, this journey is designed for travelers who want to explore Türkiye through its archaeology, mythology, and ancient history.

Why Choose the Asia Minor Archaeological Odyssey?

This tour goes far beyond Türkiye’s most famous archaeological sites. It connects major ancient cities, sacred sanctuaries, archaeological museums, coastal ruins, and historic landscapes into one carefully planned route.

Explore the Ancient Cities of Western Türkiye

Discover some of the most important archaeological sites of the Aegean, including Pergamum, Sardis, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Priene, Miletus, and Didyma.

Follow the Lycian Coast

Continue south toward the Mediterranean to explore Tlos, Xanthos, Letoon, Patara, Myra, and Kekova, where ancient Lycian heritage meets dramatic coastal scenery.

Discover Roman Heritage in Antalya

Explore Perge, Aspendos, and Side, three remarkable sites that reveal the importance of the ancient Pamphylian region during the Roman period.

10-Day Archaeological Tour Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Izmir

Izmir Airport Pickup

Upon arrival at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Welcome to Smyrna

Izmir, historically known as Smyrna, has played an important role in the history of the Aegean for thousands of years.

Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure and prepare for your archaeological journey.

Overnight: Izmir
Meals: Not included

Day 2 – Pergamum & Sardis: Kings, Temples & Medicine

Pergamum Acropolis

Travel to the ancient city of Pergamum, once the capital of the powerful Kingdom of Pergamon.

Explore the Acropolis and its monumental remains, including the ancient theatre and Temple of Trajan.

The city was also an important center of learning and culture in the ancient world.

Asclepion of Pergamum

Continue to the Asclepion, one of antiquity’s most important medical centers.

The complex provides an insight into ancient approaches to medicine, healing, and patient care and is associated with the renowned physician Galen.

Sardis Ancient City

Continue to Sardis, the capital of the ancient Lydian Kingdom.

Explore the remains of the Gymnasium, ancient Synagogue, and Temple of Artemis while learning about the Lydians and their important role in the development of early coinage.

Return to Izmir in the evening.

Overnight: Izmir
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 3 – Ephesus: The Crown Jewel of the Aegean

Izmir City Highlights

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

Ephesus Ancient City

Continue to Ephesus, one of the most impressive ancient cities in the eastern Mediterranean.

Walk along its marble streets and explore major landmarks including:

• Celsus Library
• Great Theatre
• Temple of Hadrian
• Ancient commercial streets
• Monumental public buildings

Temple of Artemis

Visit the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of 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.

Overnight: Kuşadası
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 4 – Aphrodisias & Pamukkale

Aphrodisias Ancient City

Travel inland to Aphrodisias, an ancient city dedicated to Aphrodite.

The site is particularly renowned for its marble sculpture workshops, monumental stadium, theatre, and archaeological museum.

Hierapolis Ancient City

Continue to Hierapolis, the ancient Roman spa city located above Pamukkale’s thermal springs.

Explore its monumental streets, theatre, baths, and extensive necropolis.

Pamukkale Travertines

End the day at the spectacular Pamukkale travertines.

Walk across designated areas of the brilliant white mineral terraces and enjoy views across this extraordinary natural landscape.

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

Day 5 – Priene, Miletus & Didyma

Priene Ancient City

Explore Priene, an ancient city renowned for its carefully planned streets and Temple of Athena.

Its elevated location beneath Mount Mycale provides impressive views across the surrounding landscape.

Miletus Ancient City

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

The city is associated with thinkers such as Thales and is home to an impressive ancient theatre.

Didyma & Temple of Apollo

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

The enormous surviving columns give an idea of the scale and importance of this sacred center.

Bafa Lake

Take a scenic break near Bafa Lake, with views toward the Latmos Mountains, before continuing to Bodrum.

Overnight: Bodrum
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 6 – Bodrum, Dalyan & Kaunos

Bodrum Castle

Begin the day at Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter.

Visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where archaeological discoveries from shipwrecks and maritime history are displayed.

Dalyan River Cruise

Travel to Dalyan and board a private boat.

Cruise along the river while viewing the impressive Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs.

Kaunos Ancient City

Continue to the ruins of Kaunos, an ancient city overlooking the Dalyan region.

İztuzu Beach

Enjoy a break at İztuzu Beach, one of the region’s most famous coastal landscapes.

Overnight: Fethiye
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 7 – The Lycian League: Tlos, Xanthos, Letoon & Patara

Tlos Ancient City

Explore Tlos, one of the important ancient cities of Lycia, with its acropolis, rock-cut tombs, and dramatic mountain setting.

Xanthos

Continue to Xanthos, the ancient capital of the Lycian League and an important archaeological site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Letoon Sanctuary

Visit Letoon, a major religious center of ancient Lycia dedicated to Leto and her children, Apollo and Artemis.

Patara Ancient City

Continue to Patara, one of the most important ancient cities of Lycia.

Explore its archaeological remains before enjoying time at the nearby Patara Beach.

Overnight: Kaş
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 8 – Kekova, Myra & St. Nicholas

Kekova Boat Trip

One of the highlights of the tour is a boat journey across the Kekova region.

See the partially submerged ruins of the ancient settlement commonly known as the Sunken City of Kekova from the water.

Myra Ancient City

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

St. Nicholas Church

Visit St. Nicholas Church in Demre, associated with Nicholas of Myra, the historical figure who inspired the tradition of Santa Claus.

Phaselis

Continue toward Antalya with a visit to Phaselis, an ancient harbor city surrounded by pine forests and Mediterranean coastline.

Depending on conditions, enjoy time for a swim.

Overnight: Antalya
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 9 – Aspendos, Perge & Side

Aspendos Ancient Theatre

Visit Aspendos, famous for its remarkably preserved Roman theatre.

The monumental structure remains one of the finest surviving examples of Roman theatre architecture in Türkiye.

Perge Ancient City

Continue to Perge, an important ancient city of Pamphylia.

Walk along its monumental streets and explore the remains of its gates, colonnades, public buildings, and baths.

Side Ancient City

Continue to Side, a historic coastal city known for its ancient theatre and the Temple of Apollo overlooking the Mediterranean.

Düden Waterfalls

Finish the day with a refreshing stop at Düden Waterfalls before returning to Antalya.

Overnight: Antalya
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 10 – Departure from Antalya

Antalya Airport Transfer

After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to Antalya Airport (AYT) for your onward flight home or to Istanbul.

Your archaeological journey through ancient Asia Minor ends here.

Tour Package Details

What Is Included?

Accommodation

• 9 nights in selected 4-star or boutique hotels
• Hotel selection based on availability and chosen package category

Meals

• 9 breakfasts
• 8 lunches
• 8 dinners

Professional Guide

• Licensed English-speaking tour guide
• Archaeology-focused guiding throughout the journey

Private Transportation

• Private, comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional driver

Entrance Fees

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

Included Activities

• Pergamum Acropolis cable car
• Dalyan private boat trip
• Kekova boat trip
• Airport transfers from Izmir and to Antalya

What Is Not Included?

• Domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir / Antalya
• Drinks during meals
• Personal expenses
• Tips for the guide and driver
• Activities not specifically mentioned in the itinerary

Domestic flights can be arranged upon request.

Important Information for Archaeology Travelers

Walking & Site Conditions

This is an archaeology-focused itinerary involving considerable walking through ancient sites.

Many archaeological areas have uneven stone surfaces, steps, slopes, and exposed terrain.

Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and suitable clothing are strongly recommended.

Who Is This Tour Suitable For?

This tour is ideal for:

• History enthusiasts
• Archaeology lovers
• Classical civilization enthusiasts
• Cultural travelers
• Photographers
• Travelers interested in Greek and Roman history
• Visitors looking for an in-depth Aegean and Mediterranean itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Asia Minor Archaeological Odyssey?

The tour lasts 10 days and 9 nights, beginning in Izmir and ending in Antalya.

Which ancient cities are included?

The itinerary includes major archaeological sites such as Pergamum, Sardis, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Hierapolis, Priene, Miletus, Didyma, Kaunos, Tlos, Xanthos, Letoon, Patara, Myra, Phaselis, Aspendos, Perge, and Side.

Is Ephesus included in the tour?

Yes. Ephesus is a major highlight of Day 3, together with the Temple of Artemis and Basilica of St. John.

Does the tour include Pamukkale?

Yes. Day 4 includes both Hierapolis Ancient City and Pamukkale Travertines.

Is the Kekova boat trip included?

Yes. The package includes a Kekova boat trip to view the submerged archaeological remains of the Sunken City.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. The package is designed with private transportation and a professional licensed English-speaking guide.

Are domestic flights included?

No. Domestic flights are excluded from the standard package but can be arranged upon request.

Is the tour physically demanding?

The itinerary includes substantial walking through archaeological sites, including uneven and sometimes sloping terrain. Travelers should be comfortable walking for extended periods.

Book the Asia Minor Archaeological Odyssey

Walk through the cities of ancient kings, philosophers, physicians, merchants, emperors, and gods.

From Pergamum and Ephesus to Lycia and Antalya, this 10-day journey offers a deeper look at the civilizations that shaped Anatolia.

Contact Travel Mart Türkiye for availability, private arrangements, hotel options, domestic flights, and the best price for your travel dates.

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