Day 1: Arrival To Istanbul
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Istanbul Airport, where you will be met by the airport representative and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in, refresh, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Meet your local guide at 6.00 PM in the lobby of your hotel and head out for an optional dinner.
Day 2: Exploring The Heart Of Istanbul
After breakfast at your hotel, meet your private guide for a full day discovering Istanbul’s most iconic and historic sites. Begin at the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of Constantinople, where chariot races and imperial ceremonies once captivated thousands. From there, step into the architectural wonder of the Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and stunning Iznik tiles.
Just across the square, enter the majestic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as a church, mosque, and museum — and now a working mosque again, blending layers of history in one breathtaking space.
Continue your journey underground with a visit to the Basilica Cistern, a hauntingly beautiful subterranean structure supported by hundreds of ancient columns, famously featuring Medusa heads at its base.
Next, soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Wander through its labyrinth of alleys, filled with shops selling everything from handmade carpets and lanterns to spices and jewelry. An optional lunch break will be arranged at a local eatery known for its traditional Turkish dishes.
In the late afternoon, unwind with a relaxing Bosporus cruise, where you'll sail between two continents and admire the skyline of Istanbul from the water — passing by Ottoman palaces, historic mansions, and lively neighborhoods.
Return to your hotel in the early evening with the rest of the night at leisure.
Day 3: Silk, Spirituality, And The Soul Of The First Ottoman Capital
After breakfast, depart Istanbul and drive south to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and a city rich in spiritual, cultural, and commercial heritage. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the Sea of Marmara and the rolling countryside that leads you into the lush, green foothills of Mount Uludağ.
Upon arrival, begin your guided exploration with a visit to the majestic Grand Mosque (Ulu Cami), one of the finest examples of early Ottoman architecture. With its twenty domes, elegant calligraphy panels, and spiritual ambiance, the mosque offers a glimpse into the artistic and religious sensibilities of the 14th century.
From there, stroll to the nearby Koza Han, the historic silk market where merchants have traded their precious fabrics for centuries. This beautiful caravanserai, still bustling with life, is the perfect place to sip Turkish tea under the shade of a plane tree and browse shops filled with fine silk scarves and handmade textiles — a living link to Bursa’s Silk Road legacy.
In the late afternoon or early evening, experience a Whirling Dervish ceremony in an authentic dervish lodge. This deeply moving ritual, performed by practitioners of the Mevlevi Sufi order, combines music, poetry, and spiritual movement, offering an unforgettable insight into the mystical side of Turkish culture.
After a full day of exploring, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure in this serene and historic city.
Day 4: Aegean Flavors On The Way To History
After breakfast, begin your journey southward with a scenic drive along the Aegean coast toward the historic town of Selçuk. En route, stop in the charming seaside town of Ayvalık, known for its cobblestone streets, Greek-style architecture, and artisanal food culture.
Take time to explore Ayvalık’s local bazaars, where vibrant stalls overflow with handmade crafts, spices, and regional delicacies. Strolling through the town’s winding alleys offers a glimpse into daily life in this laid-back Aegean town, where traditions are still alive in every corner.
A highlight of your visit will be an olive oil tasting session, held at a local boutique producer. Discover why this region is famous for its high-quality olive oils, as you sample several varieties and learn about the traditional production methods that have shaped Ayvalık’s economy and cuisine for generations.
After the tasting, continue your drive to Selçuk, the modern-day gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Arrive in the late afternoon and check into your hotel. Enjoy the evening at your leisure in this atmospheric town, nestled among olive groves and ancient ruins.
Day 5: Ancient Ephesus To Village Tables
Begin your day with a guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved and most impressive ancient cities in the Mediterranean. As you walk along its marble-paved streets, your guide will bring to life the grandeur of the Library of Celsus, the massive Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, and other remarkable structures that once made Ephesus a thriving Roman metropolis.
Explore the rich historical layers of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, learning about its significance as a commercial, spiritual, and political center in classical antiquity. You’ll gain insights into Roman engineering, urban planning, and daily life in one of the most important cities of the ancient world.
After the tour, head to the nearby hillside village of Şirince, known for its stone houses, fruit wines, and picturesque lanes. Here, you’ll be welcomed into a traditional village home for a homemade lunch with a local family. Enjoy warm hospitality and delicious regional dishes prepared with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients — a truly intimate cultural experience that offers a taste of authentic Aegean life.
Return to your hotel in Selçuk in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 6: Sacred Springs Of Pamukkale
After breakfast, depart Selçuk and journey inland toward Pamukkale, a surreal natural wonder famed for its gleaming white terraces and ancient healing waters. Upon arrival, begin your guided exploration of Hierapolis, the ancient Greco-Roman city that once thrived alongside these thermal springs.
Walk through the remarkably preserved ruins of Hierapolis, including the grand Roman theatre, the impressive necropolis (one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Anatolia), and the Temple of Apollo. Learn about how this UNESCO World Heritage Site served as both a spiritual center and a spa town, drawing visitors from across the ancient world seeking healing in its warm mineral waters.
After exploring the ruins, continue to the iconic travertine terraces of Pamukkale — often referred to as the “Cotton Castle.” Formed over thousands of years by calcium-rich thermal waters cascading down the hillside, these dazzling white pools offer both a stunning visual and a chance to dip your feet into their warm waters.
Enjoy time to relax and take in the unique landscape before checking into your hotel in Pamukkale for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Antalya: Culture, Charm & Cascade
After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive toward Antalya, a vibrant coastal city that blends ancient heritage with seaside charm. Upon arrival, meet your guide for a full-day exploration of the cultural and natural highlights of the region.
Begin your visit at the Antalya Museum, one of Turkey’s finest archaeological collections. Here, you’ll discover an impressive array of artifacts from the ancient cities of the Lycian and Pamphylian civilizations, including intricate Roman statues, sarcophagi, and mosaics that bring the region’s rich past to life.
Continue to the Old Town (Kaleiçi), a charming quarter filled with narrow cobbled streets, Ottoman-era houses, and historic landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the fluted minaret. Enjoy time to explore the local boutiques, cafes, and hidden courtyards, soaking in the laid-back ambiance and timeless architecture of this picturesque neighborhood.
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Düden Waterfalls, where cascading waters plunge dramatically into the Mediterranean from forested cliffs. It’s a refreshing contrast to the day’s historical discoveries — and a perfect photo stop to capture Antalya’s natural beauty.
After the tour, check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 8: Antalya, Yours To Explore
Today is yours to enjoy Antalya at your own pace. Whether you’re in the mood for relaxation, adventure, or exploration, this sun-kissed Mediterranean city has something to offer every traveler.
You might choose to unwind at one of the city’s pristine beaches, such as Konyaaltı or Lara, where turquoise waters and scenic backdrops create the perfect setting for swimming and sunbathing. Or take a leisurely stroll along the marina and enjoy a coffee with sea views.
For those seeking more activity, consider a boat tour from the old harbor, a visit to the Antalya Aquarium, or a walk through the nearby ancient ruins of Perge or Termessos, nestled in the surrounding hills.
Alternatively, dive deeper into local life by browsing bazaars, artisan shops, or enjoying a traditional Turkish bath in a historic hamam.
With no fixed plans, this is your opportunity to absorb the rhythm of the coast, savor local flavors, and simply enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle at your own pace.
Day 9: From Coastal Calm To Sufi Spirit
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Antalya, with time to soak in the last of the Mediterranean breeze. Whether you take a final stroll through the Old Town, sip coffee by the harbor, or browse local artisan shops, the morning is yours to enjoy at leisure.
In the late morning or around midday, begin your inland journey to the city of Konya, a former capital of the Seljuk Empire and the spiritual center of the Mevlevi Sufi order. As the landscape transitions from coastal vistas to wide Anatolian plains, your guide will offer insights into the cultural shift between regions.
Upon arrival in Konya, visit the Mevlana Museum, the mausoleum of the great Sufi poet and philosopher Jalaluddin Rumi. This sacred site is not only a museum but also a place of pilgrimage, reflecting the mystic teachings of love, unity, and spiritual devotion. Explore the dervish lodges, Rumi’s tomb, and exhibits displaying calligraphy, instruments, and Sufi garments.
Then take a short walk to Alaaddin Hill (Alaaddin Tepesi), a peaceful park built atop ancient ruins, offering views over Konya and home to the historic Alaaddin Mosque. This tranquil site captures the contemplative essence of the city and provides a beautiful contrast to the bustle of earlier days.
Check in to your hotel in Konya and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 10: From Plains To Peaks Of Cappadocia
After breakfast, depart from Konya and enjoy a scenic drive to Cappadocia, one of Turkey’s most iconic and surreal regions. As you approach, the landscape begins to shift — flat plains give way to rolling hills, honey-colored cliffs, and the famed fairy chimneys that define this volcanic wonderland.
Upon arrival, begin your introductory guided tour of Cappadocia with a visit to Esentepe Panoramic Spot, where you’ll take in sweeping views of the Göreme Valley and its scattered rock formations. It’s the perfect place to orient yourself and capture the first breathtaking photos of this unique terrain.
Continue to the Love Valley, named for its towering phallic-shaped rock formations created by centuries of wind and water erosion. This scenic walk offers not only geological fascination but also peaceful surroundings ideal for soaking in the region’s natural beauty.
Conclude the day with panoramic views of Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia. While you may not enter the castle itself today, your guide will share its history and strategic importance while you admire the carved rock dwellings and the sweeping vistas it offers over the valleys below.
Check in to your cave hotel, a signature Cappadocia experience, and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, nestled in one of the most magical landscapes in the world.
Day 11: From Sky To Soil: A True Cappadocia Day
Start the day before dawn with an optional hot air balloon ride — an unforgettable experience that lets you drift above Cappadocia’s surreal landscape as the first light of day paints the valleys in soft hues of gold, pink, and lavender. Watch as hundreds of balloons rise across the horizon, creating a magical, dreamlike atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day guided tour through Cappadocia’s historical and geological marvels. Begin with a visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with rock-cut churches, monasteries, and frescoes dating back to the 10th century. Your guide will bring the stories and artistry of these sacred spaces to life.
Next, head underground to explore the Özkonak Underground City, a vast network of tunnels and chambers carved deep into the earth. Once used as a shelter during times of invasion, this subterranean city showcases the ingenuity and resilience of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
Break for a special lunch at a women’s cooperative in Ortahisar, where you’ll enjoy delicious home-cooked dishes prepared by local women working to preserve regional culinary traditions and support their community.
In the afternoon, visit a renowned pottery workshop for a live demonstration by a UNESCO Heritage master. Learn about the age-old ceramic techniques of Avanos, a town famous for its red clay from the Kızılırmak River. You’ll have the chance to watch the master at work — and maybe even try your hand at shaping the clay yourself.
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, with time to relax or enjoy the unique ambiance of your cave room as the sun sets over the fairy chimneys.
Day 12: From Rivers To Village Tables
Today is a scenic travel day as you leave Cappadocia and journey southeast through the vast Anatolian plains toward Adıyaman, a region known for its rich history and proximity to Mount Nemrut.
Along the way, you’ll stop for a short visit to the Atatürk Dam, one of the world’s largest and most significant hydroelectric projects. Spanning the mighty Euphrates River, the dam is a modern engineering marvel and a critical lifeline for agriculture and energy in southeastern Turkey. Your guide will provide insight into its role in the region’s development and the surrounding landscape shaped by the river.
In the early evening, continue to a local village near Adıyaman, where you’ll be welcomed by a host family for a warm, traditional home-cooked dinner. Enjoy a relaxed and intimate setting as you experience authentic dishes prepared with locally grown ingredients. This is a unique opportunity to connect with local people, share stories, and learn about their way of life — a true cultural exchange far from the tourist trail.
After dinner, continue to your hotel in Adıyaman for check-in and a well-deserved rest.
Day 13: Sunrise With Kings, Sunset With Prophets
Start your day well before dawn for an early drive up the slopes of Mount Nemrut, one of Turkey’s most iconic and mystical archaeological sites. Arrive at the summit just in time to witness one of the most breathtaking sunrises in the world. As the first light of day breaks over the horizon, it casts a golden glow over the colossal stone heads of ancient gods and kings that guard the mountaintop — remnants of the 1st-century BC Commagene Kingdom. The surreal scenery and eerie silence at this hour create a truly unforgettable and almost spiritual atmosphere.
After exploring the site, including the monumental tumulus and royal terraces, descend the mountain and continue your journey southeast to Şanlıurfa, often referred to as the "City of Prophets." This city is steeped in Abrahamic tradition and known for its deep spiritual significance.
Upon arrival, join your guide for a walking tour through the city’s sacred and historic core. Visit the Cave of Abraham, believed to be the birthplace of the prophet, and the Pool of Sacred Carp (Balıklıgöl) — a serene spot surrounded by mosques and legends tied to the prophet’s life. Explore the lively Urfa Bazaar, where the aromas of spices, the call of merchants, and the rhythm of local life fill the air.
The day offers a beautiful contrast — from the windswept summit of a lost kingdom to the living faith and vibrant culture of one of Turkey’s most storied cities.
Check in to your boutique hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure in the heart of Şanlıurfa.
Day 14: From Göbeklitepe To The Heartbeat Of Urfa
This morning, set out to explore two of the world’s most significant and enigmatic archaeological sites — Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe. Dating back over 11,000 years, these sacred places predate Stonehenge and the Pyramids, challenging everything we thought we knew about the beginnings of human civilization.
Begin with a guided visit to Göbeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and widely considered the oldest known temple complex on Earth. Walk among the massive T-shaped pillars carved with mysterious animal motifs, and listen as your guide shares the latest discoveries and theories about this ceremonial site and its builders — who lived before the advent of settled farming communities.
Continue to Karahantepe, a newer excavation site that has quickly become a key part of the “Taş Tepeler” (Stone Hills) project. With its deeply carved human figures and advanced architectural layouts, Karahantepe offers another piece of the prehistoric puzzle and a glimpse into humanity’s earliest expressions of ritual and belief.
Return to Şanlıurfa in the afternoon and enjoy some free time to relax or explore the old city on your own.
In the evening, prepare for a vibrant and heartwarming cultural experience. Join a local music night, where you’ll enjoy performances by folk musicians and traditional singers, known for their deep, emotional storytelling. Feast on regional dishes in a lively setting filled with dancing, laughter, and shared celebration — a perfect way to conclude your time in southeastern Turkey by connecting with its living heritage.
Return to your hotel for your final overnight in Şanlıurfa.
Day 15: From Mesopotamia To Memories
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to the enchanting southeast. You’ll be transferred to Şanlıurfa Airport for your domestic flight to Istanbul.
As your journey comes to an end, reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past two weeks — from the imperial splendor of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, from sacred ancient temples to the warmth of village hospitality.
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), your tour officially concludes. Whether you're heading home or continuing onward, you leave with a deeper understanding of Turkey’s rich cultural mosaic — and memories to last a lifetime.
Safe travels and teşekkür ederiz for joining us on this incredible journey.
