DAY-1 Best of Istanbul: Private Guided Old City Tour
Day 1 – Best of Istanbul: Private Guided Old City Tour
Begin your journey pickup from your Istanbul hotel by your guide with the Best of Istanbul Private Guided Old City Tour, designed to showcase the rich history, culture, and timeless beauty of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Accompanied by a professional licensed guide, explore the heart of the historic Sultanahmet district, where centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage come together.
Discover world-famous highlights such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar, while walking through ancient streets filled with stories of empires and civilizations. This private experience allows you to explore at your own pace, enjoy personalized attention, and gain deeper insight into Istanbul’s fascinating past.
Perfect for first-time visitors and culture lovers, this carefully curated tour offers a seamless introduction to Istanbul, combining history, architecture, and authentic local atmosphere in one unforgettable day.
Admission Tickets: Not included
Duration:7-8 Hours
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) – Istanbul
Visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Famous for its six elegant minarets and stunning interior decorated with thousands of blue İznik tiles, this historic mosque continues to serve as an active place of worship while welcoming visitors from around the world.
Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Blue Mosque offers a unique opportunity to experience Istanbul’s spiritual and cultural heritage while admiring its impressive domes, grand courtyard, and beautifully detailed design. A must-see highlight of any Old City tour, the mosque provides unforgettable photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of Ottoman history and architecture.
Duration: Approx. 30–45 minutes
Admission: Free (No entrance fee)
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia – Icon of Istanbul’s History
Discover the legendary Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most extraordinary architectural masterpieces and a symbol of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage. Originally built as a cathedral in the 6th century, later transformed into a mosque, and today serving as a historic mosque and monument, Hagia Sophia reflects the unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman history.
Admire its magnificent dome, impressive mosaics, and grand interior that has inspired travelers, historians, and architects for centuries. Located in the heart of the Old City, Hagia Sophia is a must-visit landmark offering a powerful journey through time and one of the most unforgettable experiences in Istanbul.
Duration: Approx. 45–60 minutes
Admission Ticket: Not Included
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace – Imperial Residence of the Ottoman Sultans
Explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence of the Ottoman Sultans and one of Istanbul’s most important historical landmarks. Overlooking the Bosphorus and Golden Horn, this grand palace served as the political and cultural heart of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years.
Walk through elegant courtyards, royal chambers, and beautifully decorated halls while discovering priceless treasures, sacred relics, and breathtaking panoramic views. With its rich history, impressive architecture, and fascinating collections, Topkapi Palace offers visitors an unforgettable journey into the luxurious world of the Ottoman dynasty and remains a highlight of any Istanbul Old City Tour.
Duration: Approx. 1.5–2 hours
Admission Ticket: Not Included
Hippodrome of Istanbul
Hippodrome of Istanbul – Historic Heart of Byzantine Constantinople
Discover the historic Hippodrome of Istanbul, once the social and sporting center of ancient Constantinople during the Byzantine Empire. This open-air square was originally used for chariot races, imperial ceremonies, and public events, making it one of the most important gathering places in the city’s history.
Today, visitors can explore remarkable monuments such as the Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain, each reflecting different periods of Istanbul’s rich past. Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Hippodrome offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s imperial history and serves as an essential stop on any Old City walking tour.
Duration: Approx. 20–30 minutes
Admission Ticket: Free (No entrance fee)
Grand Bazaar
Grand Bazaar – Istanbul’s Historic Shopping Experience
Explore the world-famous Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, featuring thousands of shops spread across a maze of colorful streets and historic passageways. Dating back to the 15th century, this iconic marketplace is a symbol of Istanbul’s rich trading heritage and offers an unforgettable cultural and shopping experience.
Visitors can browse a wide variety of traditional Turkish products including handmade carpets, ceramics, jewelry, leather goods, spices, and authentic souvenirs while experiencing the lively atmosphere of local commerce. A must-visit highlight of the Old City, the Grand Bazaar combines history, culture, and shopping in one unique destination.
Duration: Approx. 45–60 minutes
Admission Ticket: Free (No entrance fee)
Accommodation & Meal Details
Accommodation: Not Included
Meals: Not Included
DAY-2 Depart for Gallipoli Tour From Your Istanbul Hotel
Day 2 – Depart for Gallipoli Tour from Your Istanbul Hotel
Begin your day with a comfortable departure from your Istanbul hotel for a meaningful journey to the historic Gallipoli Peninsula, one of Turkey’s most important and emotional historical sites. This fully guided tour offers a deep insight into the events of World War I and the Gallipoli Campaign, where thousands of soldiers from different nations fought and formed lasting historical ties.
Visit significant landmarks including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, and the memorial sites, while your professional guide shares powerful stories and historical context that bring the past to life. Surrounded by peaceful landscapes and coastal views, Gallipoli offers a unique combination of history, remembrance, and cultural significance.
This carefully organized full-day experience provides comfortable transportation, expert guidance, and a respectful exploration of one of Turkey’s most important historical destinations.
Gallipoli Battlefields & Memorial Sites Tour
Gallipoli Battlefields & Memorial Sites Tour
• Departure from Istanbul
Pickup from your hotel and drive to the Gallipoli Peninsula for a full-day historical tour.
• Lunch in Eceabat
Enjoy lunch in Eceabat, the gateway town to the Gallipoli battlefields.
• Gallipoli Battlefields & Memorial Sites
Visit the most significant locations of the Gallipoli Campaign, including:
Brighton Beach
Beach Cemetery
ANZAC Cove
Arıburnu Cemetery
ANZAC Commemorative Site
Respect to Mehmetçik Statue
Lone Pine Australian Memorial
Johnston’s Jolly (Turkish and Allied trenches and tunnels)
Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery
The Nek
Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial
• Guided Historical Experience
Throughout the tour, your professional guide will provide detailed historical commentary, offering insight into the events of 1915 and the importance of each memorial site.
• End of Tour Transfer to Hotel In Canakkale
After the tour, depart for Istanbul with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of Gallipoli’s historical significance.
Duration: Approx. 5 hours
Admission: Entrance tickets included
Accommodation & Meal
Accommodation: Stay At Helen Hotel, Anzac House, Anafarta or Ekol Hotel Double/Twin or Triple Room
Meals: Lunch
DAY-3 Troy & Pergamon Tour and Transferred to Ephesus
Troy & Pergamon Tour
Departure & Scenic Drive
Begin your journey with an early departure and comfortable drive toward the ancient regions of Troy and Pergamon.
Ancient City of Troy
Explore the legendary Ancient City of Troy, famous for the Trojan War described in Homer’s Iliad. Walk through the archaeological site featuring ruins from multiple ancient civilizations and see the iconic replica of the Trojan Horse while learning about the myths and history that made Troy world-famous.
Lunch Break
Enjoy a local lunch at a selected restaurant before continuing the tour.
Pergamon Ancient City & Acropolis
Continue to Pergamon, one of the most important cultural and political centers of the Hellenistic period. Visit the impressive Acropolis, admire the steep ancient theatre, and enjoy panoramic views while discovering the city’s rich historical heritage.
Guided Historical Experience
Throughout the tour, your professional guide will provide detailed historical insights, bringing ancient civilizations to life with engaging stories and expert explanations.
Return / Transfer
At the end of the tour, transferred to the hotel in Ephesus (Kusadasi)
Duration: Full day
Admission Tickets: Included
Accommodation & Meal Details
Accommodation: Stay at Derici Hotel, Ilayda Hotel, Double Tree Hilton or Smilar Quality Double/Twin or Triple Room In Kusadasi(Ephesus)
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY-4 Ephesus Ancient City and Virgin Marry House Tour
Day 4 – Ephesus Ancient City & House of the Virgin Mary Tour
Hotel Pickup & Departure
Begin your day with a comfortable pickup from your hotel and depart for a full-day guided tour of Ephesus and its surrounding historical sites.
Ancient City of Ephesus
Explore the world-famous Ancient City of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world. Walk along marble streets and visit iconic landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and impressive Roman ruins while learning about the city’s rich history from your professional guide.
House of the Virgin Mary
Continue to the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the final residence of Mary, mother of Jesus. Surrounded by nature, this sacred site offers a spiritual and serene atmosphere visited by pilgrims from around the world.
Guided Historical Experience
Throughout the tour, enjoy detailed explanations and historical insights provided by your licensed local guide, ensuring a meaningful and enriching experience.
End of Tour / Transfer
At the end of the tour, transfer to your hotel for relaxation and overnight stay.
Duration: Full day
Admission: Entrance tickets included
Ephesus Ancient City
Ephesus Ancient City
Visit the magnificent Ancient City of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Once a major Roman port city, Ephesus is famous for its impressive marble streets, monumental architecture, and rich cultural history.
During your guided visit, explore iconic landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, and ancient bath complexes while learning about daily life in one of the most important cities of the ancient world. This remarkable open-air museum offers a fascinating journey through history and remains a highlight of any Turkey itinerary.
Duration: Approx. 2–3 hours
Admission Ticket: Included
House of the Virgin Mary
House of the Virgin Mary
Visit the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, one of the most important religious and pilgrimage sites near Ephesus, believed to be the final residence of Mary, mother of Jesus. Located on a peaceful hillside surrounded by nature, this spiritual site welcomes visitors from around the world seeking history, faith, and tranquility.
During your visit, explore the small stone chapel, the holy spring, and the wishing wall while learning about the historical and religious significance of the site from your professional guide. The serene atmosphere and beautiful natural setting make this stop a meaningful highlight of the Ephesus region.
Duration: Approx. 45–60 minutes
Admission: Entrance tickets included
Temple of Artemis
Temple of Artemis
Visit the historic Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and an important symbol of ancient Ephesus. Although only a few columns remain today, this remarkable site once stood as one of the largest and most magnificent temples of the ancient world, dedicated to the goddess Artemis.
During your visit, your professional guide will explain the fascinating history, mythology, and archaeological importance of the temple, allowing you to imagine the grandeur of this once-celebrated structure. Located near Ephesus Ancient City, the Temple of Artemis remains a meaningful stop for travelers interested in history and ancient civilizations.
Duration: Approx. 15–20 minutes
Admission Ticket: Free (No entrance fee)
Selçuk Town
Selçuk Town
Explore the charming Selçuk Town, the cultural gateway to the Ephesus region, known for its authentic local atmosphere, historical heritage, and traditional Turkish lifestyle. This peaceful town offers visitors a chance to experience everyday local life while discovering the rich history surrounding one of Turkey’s most important archaeological areas.
During your visit, enjoy a relaxed walk through the town center, see local shops and traditional streets, and take in views of the surrounding countryside. Selçuk provides a perfect cultural stop that complements the historical experience of Ephesus and offers a more authentic glimpse into the region’s character.
Duration: Approx. 30–45 minutes
Admission Ticket: Free (No entrance fee)
Accommodation & Meal Details
Accommodation: Stay at Derici Hotel, Ilayda Hotel, Double Tree Hilton or Similar Quality Double/Twin or Triple Room
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY-5 Pamukkale Tour and Flight Back to Istanbul
DAY-5 – Pamukkale Tour & Flight Back to Istanbul
Discover the natural wonder of Pamukkale, famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces and mineral-rich thermal waters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis with your professional guide, including its impressive theatre, necropolis, and historical ruins that reveal the region’s rich Roman heritage. Enjoy free time to walk on the iconic terraces and, if you wish, experience the optional Cleopatra Antique Pool for a unique thermal swim among ancient columns.
At the end of the tour, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel, marking the end of a memorable journey through Turkey’s timeless landscapes and history.
Pamukkale Travertines
Pamukkale Travertines
Pamukkale Travertines are one of Türkiye’s most iconic natural wonders, famous for their stunning white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views, warm natural pools, and a unique landscape shaped over thousands of years. Visitors can walk barefoot on the terraces, enjoy the healing thermal waters, and experience one of the country’s most photographed destinations.
Admission Ticket: Included
Duration: 3/4 Hours
Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
Hierapolis Archaeology Museum – Pamukkale
Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum is one of the most important historical attractions in Pamukkale. Set inside a beautifully restored Roman bath complex, the museum displays an exceptional collection of Roman and Hellenistic artifacts, including statues, sarcophagi, reliefs, and ancient inscriptions discovered during regional excavations. Visiting the museum
offers travelers a deeper insight into the history, culture, and daily life of ancient civilizations that once flourished in Pamukkale and the surrounding Anatolian region. It is a must-see stop for history lovers exploring the ancient city of Hierapolis
Admission Ticket: Included
Duration:1/2 hours
Flight Back to Istanbul – End of the Tour
Flight Back to Istanbul – End of the Tour
At the end of your Pamukkale tour, you will be transferred to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul. Enjoy a comfortable and seamless journey as you conclude your exploration of Türkiye’s natural and historical treasures. Upon arrival in Istanbul, our team will welcome you at the airport and provide a smooth transfer to your hotel, ensuring a stress-free and well-organized end to your travel experience. This final step of the journey allows you to relax and reflect on the unforgettable memories created throughout your tour.
Cleopatra’s Antique Pool
Cleopatra’s Antique Pool – Pamukkale
Cleopatra’s Antique Pool is one of Pamukkale’s most unique attractions, offering visitors the rare experience of swimming in warm, mineral-rich thermal waters surrounded by submerged ancient Roman columns. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis, this historic thermal pool is believed to have been used since ancient times for relaxation and wellness. The naturally heated waters provide a refreshing and memorable experience while allowing guests to connect with the region’s rich history and natural beauty. A visit to Cleopatra’s Pool is a perfect addition to your Pamukkale tour for those seeking both relaxation and cultural discovery.
Duration: Approx. 1 hour (free time)
Admission Ticket: Optional – entrance fee not included
Accommodation & Meal Details:
Accommodation: Not Included
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch