Journey Through Turkey

(18 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Istanbul, Troy, Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Aphrodisias, Bodrum, Turquoise Coast, Antalya, Cappadocia

This is our most comprehensive private tour of Turkey, and it’s an ideal combination of the country’s most rewarding experiences: fascinating cultural sites, exciting cities, stunning landscapes, relaxing resorts, beautiful beaches and compelling attractions off the beaten path.

Begin in Istanbul. During flexible private touring with your own guide, visit sights such as the Aya Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and its Harem, the Rustem Pasha Mosque, an ancient underground cistern, and Istanbul's Spice Market. Shop for carpets and kilim, jewelry, glass, textiles and antiques at the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy a boat ride on the Bosphorus, the waterway separating old Istanbul from new, Europe from Asia. Also visit Istanbul's most interesting museums, including the Istanbul Modern. There will also be time to enjoy the city's wonderful cafes and vibrant neighborhoods.

Travel along the shores of the Sea of Marmara to tour the monuments in Gallipoli. Sail across the Dardanelles to Troy, Homer’s fabled city. Also visit the sprawling ruins of the ancient city of Pergamon, including the Altar of Zeus, Acropolis, Library, Temple of Trajan, and theater, as well as the Asklepion and Red Basilica.

Continue down the coast of the Aegean Sea to Kusadasi. With your expert private guide, tour the magnificent ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, the Terrace Houses and Ephesus Museum, as well as the nearby House of the Virgin Mary. Tour the important ruins of Aphrodisias en route to Pamukkale to enjoy the hot spring pools and white mineral terraces, and visit the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient thermal spa. Next, drive to Bodrum, where whitewashed homes overlook the water. Explore the Roman amphitheater, Castle of St. Peter, and remains of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Venture south to the unspoiled Turquoise Coast, taking in views of bays, small islands and clear blue water. See rock-cut tombs and other fascinating Lycian ruins in Myra, Xanthos and Patara. Enjoy a cruise to Kekova Island to see the underwater ruins of an ancient city. Discover the Dalyan Delta, a conservation area of reeds and waterways that’s home to sea turtles, water birds and blue crabs.

Continue to Antalya to stay at a relaxing beach resort on the Mediterranean and enjoy touring of the ruins of the ancient cities of Termessos, Perge and Aspendos.

Next, fly inland to Cappadocia to explore ancient subterranean cities filled with frescoed churches and cave dwellings in Goreme, Kaymakli and other locations. Also visit a local winery, shops selling the local style of carpets, and a pottery studio. Upon request, hot air balloon rides can be arranged. Accommodation is in a luxury cave-style hotel.En route, stop in Konya to see the green-tiled Mausoleum of Mevlana, the mystic founder of the Sufi sect (Whirling Dervishes).

Finish your tour in Istanbul with two final nights in Istanbul.