Highlights
- Visit the ancient Greco-Roman ruins of Troy, Pergamon, and Ephesus
- Walk around Lake Bafa Nature Park, keeping an eye out for colorful birds
- Cruise to the pretty bays, beaches, and hot springs in and around Black Island
- Get an adrenaline rush with optional activities like paragliding and scuba diving
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in İstanbul, Explore the Bridge Between Asia & Europe | İstanbul |
| Day 2 | Transfer to Çanakkale, Stopping at World War I Sites | Çanakkale |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Bergama via Troy & Pergamon | Bergama |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Alaçati via Urlice Vineyards | Alaçatı |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Kusadası via Selçuk & Ephesus | Kuşadası |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Bodrum via Lake Bafa Nature Park | Bodrum |
| Day 7 | Boat Tour of Black Island, Dinner at Selia Artisinal Farm | Bodrum |
| Day 8 | Transfer to the Port City of Fethiye, Explore at Your Own Pace | Fethiye |
| Day 9 | Start Your Four-Day Gulet Cruise, Optional Paragliding Excursion | St. Nicholas Island |
| Day 10 | Cruise to Aquarium Bay & Kaş, Optional Scuba Diving Excursion | Kas |
| Day 11 | Cruise to Kekova, Admire the Sunken Ruins of Dolchiste, Visit Kaleköy | Kekova Island |
| Day 12 | Disembark the Gulet, Transfer to the Hidden Paradise of Çıralı | Çıralı |
| Day 13 | Free Day in Çıralı, Jeep Safari or Climb Yanartaş | Çıralı |
| Day 14 | Transfer to Antalya, Visit Perge & Aspendos, Picnic at Manavgat Falls | Antalya |
| Day 15 | Depart Antalya |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in İstanbul, Explore the Bridge Between Asia & Europe
Welcome to Turkey and the bustling capital of İstanbul, known as the bridge between Europe and Asia, as it's the only city in the world that straddles two continents. Meet your driver at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Once you're settled in, head out to explore on your own. You can stroll the streets of Sultanahmet, the historic district, as this is where many of the city's landmarks are located. Walk past buildings dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, such as the Blue Mosque, named after the intricate blue tiles lining its interior.
Another good way to see the city is by boat. Hop on a private boat or public ferry down the Bosphorus Strait to see both the Asian and European sides of the city. Watch as historic palaces, mosques, and mansions pass you by, then disembark and head to the Grand Bazaar when you've worked up an appetite. Walk among the alleyways of one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Look for souvenirs or try an array of Turkish street food, such as kebabs or pide, a Turkish pizza. End the night with a drink from a meyhane, a traditional Turkish tavern.
Day 2: Transfer to Çanakkale, Stopping at World War I Sites
After only one night in İstanbul, settle in for a four-hour transfer along the coast toward the Gallipoli Peninsula to visit the charming city of Çanakkale, nestled on the Dardanelles Strait. Many battles occurred across the peninsula during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I, so you'll stop at some notable sites along the way to learn about the region's history, starting with the Lone Pine Memorial. Enter the serene and hallowed grounds overlooking the tranquil Aegean Sea to pay your respects to the Australian and New Zealand troops, known as ANZAC soldiers, who sacrificed their lives here.
Continue to the Chunuk Bair Memorial and Johnston's Jolly Cemetary next, two more monuments dedicated to the ANZAC soldiers. Although they were part of the Allied forces fighting against Turkish soldiers, the war actually brought Turkey, Australia, and New Zealand closer, so the memorials serve both as reminders of the war and as symbols of reconciliation. After paying your respects, head to Anzac Cove, the old landing site for the ANZAC troops. As you stand on the shores of this peaceful bay, it may be hard to imagine the intense battles that unfolded here over a century ago.
To deepen your understanding of the Gallipoli Campaign, visit the Gallipoli Museum next. Browse the extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents to understand the sacrifices and heroism of all the soldiers who fought here. Make one last stop at the Nek, a narrow stretch of land where the Battle of Nek occurred, to see the preserved trenches and poignant memorials. Enjoy the tranquil view over Suvla Bay before ending your road trip at your hotel in Çanakkale. Stay in to relax after the long drive, or head out for dinner and a drink along the strait.
Day 3: Transfer to Bergama via Troy & Pergamon
Continue your journey down the coast this morning to Bergama, renowned for its historical and archaeological sites, one of which we'll visit today. Break up the three-hour drive with a stop at the Archaeological Site of Troy just half an hour outside of Çanakkale. This ancient city, built in 3000 BCE, was once considered the stuff of myths and legends until archaeologists discovered the ruins in 1870. Enter the crumbling city walls to explore the grounds and take pictures of the Trojan horse replica.
Visit the museum to browse the collection of artifacts excavated from the site and learn more about the city's history before continuing to another iconic ancient city, Pergamon, founded in the third century BCE. Walk among the ruins of majestic temples, grand theaters, and the awe-inspiring Library of Pergamon. Admire the most famous landmark in the city, the Pergamon Acropolis, for a great vantage point of the ruins. When you're done exploring, jump back in the car for a quick, 10-minute drive to your hotel in Bergama.
Day 4: Transfer to Alaçatı via Urlice Vineyards
Leave Bergama behind this morning to continue 2.5 hours south down the coast to Alaçatı, your gateway to Turkey's Turquoise Coast. But before you get there, stop in Urla to visit Urlice Vineyards, a family-owned and operated boutique winery. Take a tour of the winery to learn about the ancient, chemical-free viticultural techniques they use to produce cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and shiraz. Sample the different wines paired with a homemade pizza for lunch, then continue to your hotel in Alaçatı.
Stay in to relax, or head out to explore the historic town on your own. Walk down the cobblestone streets, admire the quaint stone houses, and pop into the boutique shops or cozy cafés. If you're visiting on a Saturday, stop by the Alaçatı Market to shop for handmade souvenirs. In the evening, head to Ilica Beach or Alaçatı Beach to watch the sunset over the turquoise waters, then enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many beachfront restaurants for some fresh seafood before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 5: Transfer to Kusadası via Selcuk & Ephesus
Venture down the Aegean coast today, starting with a 1.5-hour transfer south to Selçuk, where you'll start your tour of this historically rich area of the İzmir province with a visit to Isabey Mosque, a simple but beautiful landmark built by Selçuk Turks overlooking the Basilica of St John. Learn about Islam and how it compares to Christianity at this very special point where artifacts from both religions remain. It's on to the Temple of Artemis next, built in 550 BCE to honor the Greek goddess. Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, today all that remains are the remnants of its soaring columns.
Head to the village of Çamlık next for a stop at Can Carpet, a small atelier where they still use the traditional dye extraction method from plants to create their carpets. Share a traditional lunch with the workers, then learn about the dyeing process with a demonstration. You can also observe women making traditional one-of-a-kind carpets, available for purchase.
This afternoon is devoted to the great ruins of Ephesus. This ancient city was established by the Greeks in the 11th century BCE before it fell under Roman rule in 129 BCE. You can see the influences of these civilizations in the architecture that's left as you explore landmarks like the Trajan Fountain, Celsus Library, and the Great Theater, which could previously hold 24,000 spectators. Visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum to learn more and view some of the excavated items. At the end of the day, your driver will take you to the nearby beach town of Kuşadası, where you'll settle in for the night.
Day 6: Transfer to Bodrum via Lake Bafa Nature Park
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Continue another 2.5 hours south along the Aegean coast to the seaside town of Bodrum. Along the way, stop at Lake Bafa Nature Park. This pristine natural reserve offers a mesmerizing combination of ancient ruins, diverse wildlife, and clear lake waters that used to be connected to the Aegean Sea. The tranquil lake, surrounded by the Latmos mountains, is the perfect spot to stop and stretch your legs with a short walk. You may see birds like the fish eagle, Dalmatian pelican, or pygmy cormorant, so keep your eyes peeled.
After your nature escape, stop in Kapıkırı to visit the ruins of Herakleia scattered across the village. Once a thriving Greek center of culture and commerce, today, this archaeological site is full of well-preserved columns, temples, and rock-cut tombs that stand as a testament to the city's former glory. Now that you've worked up an appetite, stop at Agora Pension, a local restaurant that serves up local homemade favorites—primarily olive oil dishes with regional herbs. After lunch, continue to your hotel in Bodrum. Stay in and relax for the night or head out and enjoy the town's vibrant nightlife.
Day 7: Boat Tour of Black Island, Dinner at Selia Artisinal Farm
Leave the town behind, as you sail to the nearby Black Island this morning. After a quick, 10-minute cruise, disembark and head to a hot spring on the island, where you can relax in the thermal waters. Get back on board and cruise to the Meteor Hole next, the site of an old meteor crash, now the perfect swimming spot. Head to another idyllic bay, Aquarius Bay, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch onboard, then jump in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim. After lunch, cruise to the beautiful Red Bay, known for its richly colored sand.
Jump into the crystal-clear water or relax on the shores before indulging in complimentary fresh fruit served on the boat. End your island tour at Rabbit Bay, where you can go for a final swim or relax on the boat and enjoy some tea and biscuits while soaking up the scenery. Return to your hotel in Bodrum to change out of your bathing suit and get ready for dinner at Selia Artisinal Farm. Tour the farm, learn how they make wine, goat cheese, olives, jams, and bread using traditional, chemical-free methods, and enjoy dinner and a cocktail with the owners before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 8: Transfer to the Port City of Fethiye, Explore at Your Own Pace
Say goodbye to Bodrum as you head 3.5 hours south to Fethiye, a port city along the scenic Turquoise Coast known for its archaeological wonders, pristine beaches, and towering mountains. Once you're settled in, head out to explore the city's historic center of Paspatur on your own. Walk down the narrow, winding streets, enter charming shops, or dine at one of the many cafés and restaurants. If you haven't tried Turkish coffee yet, this is a great place to do so. Keep an eye out for the Eski Cami (Old Mosque), which showcases the Ottoman-style architecture that's popular in this region.
Once you've explored Paspatur, take a short hike up to the Tomb of Amyntas, one of the numerous rock tombs carved into the steep southern hills of Fethiye by the Lycians in the fourth century BCE. When you're ready for dinner, head back down the hill to the Fethiye Fish Market. Sample seafood fresh from the Mediterranean at one of the many restaurants in the market. You can even choose from the day's fresh catch yourself. Once you've had your fill of seafood, head to ECE Marina to watch the fishing boats coming in or catch a cruise of Fethiye Bay to end the night.
Day 9: Start Your Four-Day Gulet Cruise, Optional Paragliding Excursion
One of the best ways to see the Turquoise Coast is from the water, so today, you embark on a four-day boat cruise aboard a gulet, a Turkish-style wooden yacht. First, you'll sail to Butterfly Valley, home to over 136 different butterflies and moths. Here, you can swim, have lunch, and hike to a waterfall if you're up for the adventure. You'll have plenty of time to rest after the hike, as the next stop is Ölüdeniz, the famous blue lagoon, home to one of the most popular beaches in Turkey. Ölüdeniz Beach is in a crescent-shaped bay with shallow waters, making it a great place to swim.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can choose to paraglide over the turquoise beach instead of getting back on the gulet. Take off from Babadağ mountain, one of the highest commercial launch sites in the world at 6,561 feet (2,000 m). Strap on to your guide and run off a gentle slope to start your flight over one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. Get a bird's-eye view of the turquoise water, feel the rush of wind against your face, and embrace a sense of awe for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If paragliding isn't your thing, you can continue to St. Nicholas Island and disembark for the night. You may have heard of St. Nicholas before by his more well-known nickname, Santa Claus. This island was named after him as it's thought to be his resting place. Although it's a tiny island, there's plenty to do here. Explore the ruins scattered across the island or one of the five Greek churches dating back to the fourth and sixth centuries CE. End your day with a view of the sunset over the glittering Mediterranean Sea.
Day 10: Cruise to Aquarium Bay & Kaş, Optional Scuba Diving Excursion
Enjoy a delicious breakfast on the gulet as you sail to Aquarium Bay for a swim in the crystal-clear waters. After a refreshing swim, cruise to Kaş, a small fishing village with some of the best shopping in the area. Disembark and visit one of the many local shops known for selling handmade silver jewelry, Turkish carpets, local clothing, and glass artwork to pick up a gift for yourself or your loved ones back home. Head back to the harbor dotted with colorful boats to visit one of the many waterfront restaurants serving the freshest seafood.
Those looking for an underwater adventure can choose to go scuba diving this afternoon off the south coast of Kaş. Discover what the Mediterranean Sea looks like from below, exploring either a cave or the wreck of a World War II military aircraft. If you're not afraid of tight spaces, you can even swim through the Dakota aircraft to see where the pilot sat over 70 years ago in the still-intact cockpit. After your underwater exploration, return to Kaş for the night and eat at one of the many Turkish restaurants, such as Smiley's for seafood or Cinarlar Pizza Garden for pide.
Day 11: Cruise to Kekova, Admire the Sunken Ruins of Dolchiste, Visit Kaleköy
Sail to Kekova today, a region of small islands and bays. On Kekova Island's northern shores, you'll find the sunken ruins of Dolchiste, an ancient Lycian settlement that was destroyed by an earthquake in the second century. The ruins are protected, so swimming is forbidden here, but you can enjoy views of the underwater city from the boat since the water is so clear here.
Your captain will then anchor at the ancient city of Simena, now known as Kaleköy. This small village has a rich history, which you can picture from the impressive ruins of the island's castle and fortress, dating back to the fourth century BCE. Walk to the top of the ruins along a winding, cobbled path for panoramic views of Kaleköy village, Kekova Island, and Dolchiste.
Day 12: Disembark the Gulet, Transfer to the Hidden Paradise of Çıralı
Day 13: Free Day in Çıralı, Jeep Safari or Climb Yanartaş
The day is yours to explore the area at your own pace. Return to the beach or join one of the many available tours, such as a Jeep safari to Olympos National Park. An experienced driver will take you off-road, starting at the iconic Olympos Chimera Statue, an impressive sculpture symbolizing three ancient gods. Continue to the Ulupinar Rock-Cut Tombs, ancient burial chambers with intricate carvings, before taking a detour to the Kemar Canyon to admire its unique geological formations. End your safari at Gelidonya Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast.
Another popular activity is hiking up Mount Chimaera, now known as Yanartaş, to see the natural flames emerging from the rocky mountainside. It's a moderate trek, entirely uphill, so ensure you wear your best hiking shoes. As you ascend, you'll see small pockets of flame peaking out, fueled by methane gas seeping from the earth. It typically takes 45 minutes to an hour to reach the summit, where you can enjoy more eternal flames, which have been burning for centuries. Head back down the mountain and return to your treehouse hotel for the night.
Day 14: Transfer to Antalya, Visit Perge & Aspendos, Picnic at Manavgat Falls
Bid farewell to Çıralı as you transfer 1.5 hours to the largest city on the Turquoise Coast, Antalya, this morning. Settle into your hotel, then head 30 minutes out of the city to Perge, an ancient city that was once the capital of Pamphylia. The city was originally founded by the Hittites around 1500 BCE, but it was later controlled by the ancient Greeks and then the Romans, who had the greatest architectural and cultural influence. The Roman influence is obvious as you walk along the cobblestone roads lined with colonnades. Admire the stadium where gladiators used to fight and explore the remnants of Roman baths.
Visit the nearby Greco-Roman city of Aspendos next to see one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Although it was built in the second century CE, the amphitheater has stood the test of time, so you can still enter and surround yourself with stone tiers that once accommodated thousands of spectators viewing gladiatorial contests and dramatic performances. End the day at Manavgat Falls to enjoy the idyllic scenery of the region and dine on the riverbank. Return to your hotel in Antalya for the night.
Day 15: Depart Antalya
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