From : Ask a Price
8 days / 7 nights
From March to November
15 Person
5 Min
Step into the crossroads of history as you journey from Istanbul’s imperial grandeur to the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli, and finally to the mythical and classical wonders of the Aegean coast. This 8-day cultural exploration offers an immersive experience into Turkey’s layered past—from Byzantium and Troy to Ephesus—while enjoying the warmth of Turkish hospitality and coastal charm.
Explore Istanbul’s historical peninsula: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace
Visit the Hippodrome Square, Basilica Cistern & Grand Bazaar
Discover the WWI memorials and cemeteries on the Gallipoli Peninsula
Step into ancient legends at Troy and Assos
Wander through the timeless ruins of Ephesus and the terrace houses
Visit the House of the Virgin Mary in the hills of Selçuk
Upon arrival at Istanbul International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a Nature and Sea Travel representative. From here, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in Sultanahmet, the historic heart of Istanbul. Take the rest of the day to relax and soak up the unique atmosphere of this vibrant city.
Transfer Time: 1 hour
Distance: 45–50 km (Istanbul Airport to Sultanahmet)
Overnight: Hotel in Istanbul (Sultanahmet)
Meals: None
After breakfast, we embark on a full day of exploration through Istanbul’s remarkable past. Begin with the Topkapi Palace, once the imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans. Then visit the Hagia Sophia, a Byzantine marvel and spiritual icon.
We walk through Hippodrome Square, where ancient chariot races once roared, and continue to the majestic Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and exquisite blue tiles. The day concludes with a traditional Turkish tea before returning to the hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast / – / –
Today starts with a scenic public boat tour on the Bosphorus, offering incredible views of Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and waterfront mansions. Later, we visit the mystical Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir supported by 336 marble columns.
We finish the day at the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets, before enjoying Turkish coffee and heading back to the hotel.
Bosphorus boat tour: approx. 2–3 hours
Overnight: Hotel in Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast / – / –
After breakfast, we drive towards the Gallipoli Peninsula, a place of powerful historical memory. Here we visit the Cape Helles Memorial, Morto Bay, French War Cemetery, and the Çanakkale Martyrs Memorial. Time permitting, additional sites such as Soganlidere and Sahindere cemeteries may be visited.
In the evening, we cross the Dardanelles by ferry to Çanakkale, where we settle into our hotel.
Transfer time: 5 hours
Distance: 320 km
Overnight: Hotel in Çanakkale
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
This morning we return to the peninsula to explore the Kabatepe Museum, home to personal belongings and letters from WWI soldiers.
We then walk through ANZAC Cove, visiting Beach Cemetery, Shrapnel Valley, Lone Pine, and other memorials. Later, we explore Chunuk Bair, Johnston’s Jolly, Quinn’s Post, and 57th Regiment Cemetery. In the late afternoon, we return to Çanakkale.
Overnight: Hotel in Çanakkale
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
After breakfast, we depart for Troy, famed for the legendary Trojan War. We explore the layered ruins and storied ramparts, then continue to Assos, where Aristotle once taught.
Our journey ends in Selçuk, a town rich in history and traditional culture. A short stroll through the town reveals Ayasuluk Hill, Isa Bey Mosque, and St. John’s Basilica.
Transfer time: 4–5 hours
Distance: 390 km
Overnight: Hotel in Selçuk
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Today, we begin with a visit to the serene House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be her final residence. Next, we delve into Ephesus, once the second largest city of the Roman Empire.
We explore the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, Temple of Hadrian, and the remarkable Terrace Houses, with preserved mosaics and frescoes.
In the evening, we return to Selçuk for our final night.
Overnight: Hotel in Selçuk
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight.
Transfer Time: 1 hour
Distance: 80 km (Cappadocia to Kayseri Airport)
Meals: Breakfast
