8-Day Western & Aegean Turkey Tour – Explore Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, and Pamukkale
Tour Overview
Discover the best of Western & Aegean Turkey in just 8 days! This fully guided tour takes you from the vibrant streets of Istanbul to the historic battlefields of Gallipoli, the legendary city of Troy, and the ancient wonders of Pergamon and Ephesus. Explore the breathtaking calcium terraces of Pamukkale and the sacred Virgin Mary House, while enjoying comfortable 4* accommodations, domestic flights, and expert guides throughout.
Itinerary:
Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul
Transfer & Check-in
- Arrival at Istanbul Airport, pickup by driver, transfer to 4* hotel.
- Free time to relax or explore nearby area.
Overnight: 4* hotel in Istanbul
Day 2 – Istanbul Old City Tour
Morning Highlights
Hagia Sophia: Byzantine architecture and iconic dome - Step into one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
Topkapi Palace: Ottoman treasures and historic halls - Explore royal chambers and priceless artifacts.
Afternoon Highlights
- Blue Mosque: Six minarets, 20,000 Iznik tiles - Experience the beauty of Ottoman architecture.
- Hippodrome & Grand Bazaar: Historic landmarks and vibrant shopping - Walk through history and enjoy local shopping.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: 4* hotel in Istanbul
Day 3 – Gallipoli Tour (Istanbul to Canakkale)
Morning Highlights
- Drive to Gallipoli early morning
- Kabatepe War Museum: WWI history and original artifacts - Learn the stories of bravery and history firsthand.
Afternoon Highlights
- Brighton Beach & Anzac Cove: Key battle sites
- Lone Pine Memorial & Kilitbahir Fortress: Historic monuments - Capture stunning views and historic memories.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: 4* hotel in Canakkale
Day 4 – Troy & Pergamon Tour – Drive to Kusadasi
Morning Highlights – Troy Ancient City
- Trojan Horse & Troy Ruins: Legendary stories and archaeological remains - Step into the world of myths and legends.
- Helen of Troy & Trojan Wars: Mythology brought to life - Discover stories that inspired generations.
Afternoon Highlights – Pergamon Ancient City
- Acropolis & Library: Ancient world’s cultural center - Explore one of the most important ancient cities.
- Hellenistic Theater & Temples: Architectural marvels - Iconic ancient structure
- Altar of Zeus: Iconic ancient structure
Evening Transfer: Drive to Kusadasi, 4* hotel check-in
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: 4* hotel in Kusadasi
Day 5 – Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour
Morning Highlights – Ephesus Ancient City
- Great Theatre & Streets: Roman-era architecture - Walk the streets where history comes alive.
- Library of Celsus & St. Paul’s Hill: Historical and religious sites
Afternoon Highlights – Virgin Mary House & Sirince Village
- Virgin Mary House: Sacred Christian site - Visit a peaceful and spiritual landmark.
- Sirince Village: Ottoman hilltop town, wine tasting optional - Enjoy charming streets and local delicacies.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: 4* hotel in Kusadasi
Day 6 – Pamukkale & Hierapolis – Flight to Istanbul
Morning Highlights
- Drive to Pamukkale (3 hours)
- Visit Hierapolis Ancient City: Temple of Apollo, Theatre, Necropolis - Explore ancient ruins with breathtaking views.
Afternoon Highlights
- Calcium Terraces & Cleopatra Pool (optional): Scenic and swim experience - Swim in a legendary historic pool.
- Karahayit Thermal Springs: Healing red mineral waters - Relax in natural thermal springs.
Evening Transfer: Flight to Istanbul, 4* hotel check-in
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: 4* hotel in Istanbul
Day 7 – Bosphorus Cruise & Two Continents Tour
Morning Highlights
- Egyptian Spice Market: Spices and local products - Experience the vibrant market atmosphere.
- Beylerbeyi Palace & Camlica Hill: Historic palace and panoramic views - Capture stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline.
Afternoon Highlights – Bosphorus Cruise
- Sail through Bosphorus Strait crossing Europe to Asia - Enjoy an unforgettable cruise between two continents.
- See Ottoman seaside mansions, marble palaces, and fishing villages
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: 4* hotel in Istanbul
Day 8 – Departure from Istanbul
Transfer to Airport
- Breakfast at hotel, check-out
- Pickup 2 hours before flight, transfer to Istanbul International Airport
Included Services (What’s Included)
- 7 nights accommodation in 4* hotels (Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi)
- Daily breakfast and select lunch/dinner as per itinerary
- Domestic flight: Denizli → Istanbul
- Professional English-speaking tour guide throughout the tour
- Transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicles
- Entrance fees to all listed sites: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Gallipoli Museums, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Hierapolis, Pamukkale terraces
- Bosphorus Cruise including two continents experience
- Airport transfers in Istanbul (arrival and departure)
- All sightseeing and tours mentioned in the itinerary
Not Included Services (Optional / Extra)
- International flights to/from Turkey
- Personal expenses: souvenirs, drinks, optional tips
- Optional activities: Cleopatra Pool swim, wine tasting in Sirince
- Topkapi Palace Harem entry (extra cost)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Optional Add-ons
- Cleopatra Pool Swim (Pamukkale): Enjoy a refreshing swim in the historic thermal pool.
- Wine Tasting in Sirince Village: Sample local wines and experience traditional village life.
- Private Photography Tour: Capture professional-quality photos at all major sites.
- Harem Entry at Topkapi Palace: Explore the exclusive Harem section with guided insight.
- Luxury Hotel Upgrade: Upgrade your accommodation to 5* hotels for more comfort.
- Private Vehicle & Guide: Customize your tour with a private car and dedicated guide.
- Cultural Workshops: Participate in local crafts, cooking, or pottery experiences along the route.
Why Choose This Tour
- Comprehensive Western & Aegean Turkey Experience: Visit Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Pamukkale – all in one 8-day tour.
- All-Inclusive Comfort: 4* accommodations, daily breakfast, select lunch/dinners, domestic flight, and airport transfers included.
- Expert Guided Tours: Professional English-speaking guides ensure in-depth historical and cultural insights.
- Historic & Cultural Highlights: Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient cities, iconic landmarks, and sacred sites.
- Flexible Optional Add-ons: Enhance your tour with optional activities like Cleopatra Pool swim, Sirince wine tasting, or private photography sessions.
- Seamless Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned vehicles for all land transfers, plus a comfortable domestic flight.
- Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Perfectly structured itinerary for travelers who want to see the best of Western & Aegean Turkey without stress.
- Photo & Memory Opportunities: Stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and cityscapes ideal for photography and lifelong memories.
This 8-day itinerary exceeded my expectations. Visiting Gallipoli, Ephesus, and Pamukkale in one trip made it so easy to see Turkey’s top highlights without the stress of planning. Transfers, hotels, and guided tours were seamless. A must-do for anyone wanting a complete Turkey experience!