14 Day Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Cappadocia

14-Day Best of Turkey Tour – Istanbul, Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethiye & Cappadocia

Operation: April – October
Tour Style: Escorted | Culture, History & Nature
Ideal For: First-time visitors, culture lovers, small groups

Tour Overview

Experience the very best of Turkey on this perfectly balanced 14-day Turkey tour covering iconic cities, ancient civilizations, stunning coastlines, and surreal landscapes. From the imperial wonders of Istanbul to the emotional battlefields of Gallipoli, the legendary ruins of Troy and Ephesus, the white terraces of Pamukkale, the turquoise coast of Ölüdeniz, and the fairy-tale scenery of Cappadocia, this journey is designed to inspire, educate, and delight.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul | Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Turkey! Upon arrival in Istanbul, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Turkish cuisine. Meet your fellow travelers and soak in the magical atmosphere of Istanbul by night.

Overnight: Istanbul

Day 2 – Istanbul Old City Tour | Optional Bosphorus Cruise

Depart at 09:00 for a guided tour of Istanbul’s historic heart. Visit the Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine life, and see the Obelisk of Theodosius, Serpentine Column, and Column of Constantine. Continue to the magnificent Blue Mosque, famous for its blue Iznik tiles, and then explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in history.

Optional Bosphorus Boat Cruise in the afternoon to admire palaces, bridges, and waterfront mansions where Europe meets Asia. Evening at leisure.

Overnight: Istanbul

Day 3 – Gallipoli Battlefields

After breakfast, depart for Çanakkale. Arrive in Eceabat and begin a fully guided Gallipoli Tour, visiting ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial, The Nek, Johnston’s Jolly, and Kabatepe Museum. Lunch included during the tour.

Overnight: Çanakkale

Day 4 – Troy | Kusadasi

Visit the legendary ancient city of Troy, home of the Trojan Horse and immortalized by Homer’s Iliad. Learn about the nine archaeological layers dating back to 3500 BC. Continue south to Kusadasi with a late arrival.

Overnight: Kusadasi

Day 5 – Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary

Explore Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and marble streets. Visit the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. Stop at a traditional carpet weaving center. Optional Turkish Bath (Hamam) experience in the evening.

Overnight: Kusadasi / Ephesus

Day 6 – Pamukkale & Hierapolis

Depart at 09:30 for Pamukkale, famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces. Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, including the Domitian Gate, Colonnaded Street, and Necropolis. See the red thermal waters of Karahayit, enjoy lunch, and walk barefoot on the travertines.

Overnight: Pamukkale

Day 7 – Köycegiz | Mud Baths | Ölüdeniz

Depart at 08:30 for Köycegiz Lake. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise with swimming stops, visit Turtle Beach, and savor a traditional lunch. Experience the famous mud baths and thermal springs before continuing to Ölüdeniz.

Overnight: Ölüdeniz

Day 8 – Ölüdeniz | Free Day

A full free day to relax on Ölüdeniz Beach, renowned for its turquoise waters. Optional activities include paragliding, jeep safari, or simply enjoying the sun and sea.

Overnight: Ölüdeniz

Day 9 – Olympos | Mediterranean Coast

Travel to Olympos, passing through the ancient Lycian region with breathtaking coastal views. Optional swim stops along the way. Stay in unique tree houses or bungalows and enjoy a relaxed barbecue dinner.

Overnight: Olympos

Day 10 – Olympos → Cappadocia

Early departure for Cappadocia. After arrival and rest, enjoy dinner and an optional Turkish Night Show featuring whirling dervishes, folk dances, and belly dancing.

Overnight: Cappadocia

Day 11 – Cappadocia Highlights | Optional Balloon Ride

Guided tour starting at 09:30. Visit Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO), Devrent Valley, Pigeon Valley, Uçhisar Castle, and Avanos for a pottery demonstration. Optional Hot Air Balloon Flight at sunrise (next morning).

Overnight: Cappadocia

Day 12 – Derinkuyu Underground City | Istanbul

Explore Derinkuyu Underground City, an astonishing multi-level refuge used by early Christians. Depart for Istanbul, stopping for lunch en route.

Overnight: Istanbul

Day 13 – Istanbul Modern City Tour

Late start. Visit the colorful Spice Bazaar and explore Taksim Square & Istiklal Street, the cultural and nightlife heart of Istanbul.

Overnight: Istanbul

Day 14 – Departure

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport. End of services. We hope to welcome you again on another unforgettable Turkey journey.

What’s Included

• 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 10 dinners

• Professional English-speaking guide

• All transportation by private air-conditioned coach

• Accommodation:

  • 4 nights 4★ hotels in Istanbul

  • 1 night 4★ hotel in Çanakkale

  • 2 nights 5★ hotel in Kusadasi

  • 1 night 4★ thermal hotel in Pamukkale

  • 2 nights 4★ hotel in Ölüdeniz

  • 1 night Olympos tree houses or bungalows

  • 2 nights boutique cave hotel in Cappadocia

• All entrance fees as per itinerary

• Free airport transfers

Not Included

• Drinks

• Tips for guide and driver

• Personal expenses

• Optional tours and activities

Highly Recommended Optional Experiences

• Hot Air Balloon Flight in Cappadocia

• Whirling Dervishes Ceremony

• Turkish Night Show

• Turkish Bath (Hamam)

• Paragliding in Ölüdeniz

• ATV / Quad Safari