Journey Through Turkey

(18 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Istanbul with Gallipoli & Troy, Canakkale, Izmir with Ephesus & Aphrodisias, Pamukkale, Bodrum, Turquoise Coast, 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, visit sights such as the Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia), 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 and at our favorite boutiques. 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.

Next, travel along the shores of the Sea of Marmara, stopping in Gallipoli to visit World War I battlefields and monuments. Sail across the Dardanelles to tour the archaeological remains of Troy, the fabled city in Homer's epic The Iliad and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue to Izmir. En route, tour the sprawling ruins of the ancient city of Pergamon (Pergamum), another UNESCO site, including highlights such as the extraordinary hilltop Acropolis and the Asklepion. Another day, tour the magnificent, UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, the Terrace Houses and the Ephesus Museum.

Next, see the Temple of Aphrodite and other UNESCO-inscribed ruins of the ancient city of Aphrodisias. Continue to Pamukkale, a UNESCO mixed cultural and natural site comprising sparkling white terraces formed by mineral hot springs and 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 dazzling 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. Kayak along the picturesque bays and islands of Gocek or enjoy a hiking excursion through the impressive ruins of ancient Kaunos, the Saklikent Canyon or along parts of the famed Lycian Way, if desired.

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.

Stop in Konya to see the green-tiled Mausoleum of Mevlana, the mystic founder of the Sufi sect (Whirling Dervishes) en route to Cappadocia. With your private guide, 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. Accommodation is in a luxury cave-style hotel. One morning, if desired, enjoy a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's dramatic landscapes while the sun rises.

Finally, fly back to Istanbul and enjoy a boat ride on the Bosphorus, the waterway separating old Istanbul from new, Europe from Asia.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

• Private touring with your own personal guides and drivers
• Preferred rooms in the very best luxury hotels
• Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our travel specialists
• Itineraries that are customized according to your interests and schedule
• Artisans of Leisure upgrades and amenities
• A seamless travel experience, including all logistics, skipping lines during touring whenever possible, restaurant and spa reservations, performance tickets, private airport transfers, internal transportation, VIP and fast-track airport assistance in many destinations
• Around-the-clock support in each destination during your trip
• Unique, insider travel experiences and access to the Artisans of Leisure network of experts around the world