My husband and I chose Inca Tour for our honeymoon and we are so glad we did. The boutique hotel selection was beautiful and the Bosphorus dinner cruise was so romantic. Thank you for making our trip special!
11 Days Cultural & Historical Turkey Tour: Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Antalya Private Tour
Highlights of the Cultural & Historical Turkey Journey
Embark on an immersive 11-day expedition across the heart of Turkey, where the echoes of ancient empires meet the vibrant pulse of modern life. This meticulously curated route begins in Istanbul, the legendary bridge between Europe and Asia, before venturing to the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli and the mythical ruins of Troy. You will traverse the Aegean coast to discover the architectural marvels of Pergamon and the world-renowned ancient city of Ephesus, ensuring a deep dive into the classical history that shaped the Mediterranean world.
The journey continues into the natural wonders of the interior, featuring the ethereal white travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the thermal springs of Hierapolis. As you travel south to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, the historic charm of Antalya awaits, offering a perfect blend of Roman gates, Ottoman-era architecture, and the refreshing spray of the Duden Waterfalls. Each destination is chosen to provide a comprehensive narrative of the region, balancing archaeological exploration with authentic cultural encounters in traditional villages like Sirince.
Designed for those who appreciate comfort and depth, this tour provides professional guidance throughout every site, from the monumental Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the hidden corners of the Turkish Riviera. You will experience the rich tapestry of Turkeyβs heritage, including local craft traditions, regional culinary delights, and the breathtaking landscapes that define this unique country. This is an all-encompassing adventure that captures the spirit of Anatolia, leaving you with lasting memories of one of the world's most fascinating civilizations.
Quick facts
| Tour type | Private Β· multi-day tour |
|---|---|
| Duration | 11 Days 10 Nights |
| Price | From β¬2,100 per person |
| Departures | Every day |
| Guide | Licensed guide in your language |
| Stops | 10 |
| Entrance fees | Included |
| Booking | Instant request online, confirmation within 24 hours Β· TΓRSAB-licensed operator (A-5751) |
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Your full program, day by day β click a day to see every stop.
Day 1 Arrival - Istanbul βΎ
Upon your arrival at the airport in Istanbul, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. As the former capital of the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul offers a unique atmosphere where history spans two continents. Spend your first night relaxing in this vibrant metropolis, preparing for the cultural journey ahead.
Day 2 Istanbul - Gallipoli, Canakkale π½ Breakfast Β· Lunch βΎ
Explore the historic heart of Istanbul, starting at the ancient Hippodrome, once the center of chariot races. Visit the Blue Mosque, famous for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles, and the 6th-century Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. After a local lunch, enjoy time to browse the city's traditional souvenir shops for spices, Turkish delight, and ceramics.
Day 3 Gallipoli, Canakkale - Troy, Pergamon, Kusadasi π½ Breakfast Β· Lunch Β· Dinner βΎ
Depart early for the Gallipoli Peninsula. Visit the Gabatepe Museum before exploring the historic battlefields, including Ariburnu Cemetery, Anzac Cove, the Beach Cemetery, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair. These sites offer a solemn and moving perspective on the events of the First World War. After the tour, continue your journey to your hotel in Canakkale for an overnight stay.
Day 4 Troy, Pergamon, Kusadasi - Ephesus, Sirince, Kusadasi π½ Breakfast Β· Lunch Β· Dinner βΎ
Travel to the legendary site of Troy, home to the famous Trojan Horse and the setting of Homerβs epics. Continue to the magnificent Acropolis of Pergamon, a significant center of culture and politics in the ancient world. After exploring these impressive ruins and visiting a local jewelry center, you will arrive in the coastal town of Kusadasi for the night.
Day 5 Ephesus, Sirince, Kusadasi - Pamukkale π½ Breakfast Β· Lunch Β· Dinner βΎ
Discover the grandeur of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities, featuring the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Visit the Temple of Artemis and a carpet-weaving centre before heading to the charming village of Sirince, where you will see the vineyards and learn how fruit wine is made. Known for its traditional Greek-style houses and fruit wines, Sirince offers a glimpse into local rural life. The day concludes with a visit to a local leather production center.
Day 6 Pamukkale - Antalya π½ Breakfast Β· Lunch Β· Dinner βΎ
Travel to Pamukkale to witness the stunning white travertine terraces, often called the Cotton Castle. Explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, including its thermal springs where you may choose to swim. You will also visit a local textile factory before checking into your thermal hotel, where you can enjoy the natural hot water pools.
Day 7 Antalya π½ Breakfast Β· Dinner βΎ
After breakfast, depart for the Mediterranean city of Antalya. The scenic drive takes you through the heart of the region, allowing for a relaxing coffee break along the way. Upon arrival in Antalya, enjoy a delicious dinner and settle into your hotel for a peaceful night.
Day 8 Antalya - Antalya, Istanbul π½ Breakfast Β· Lunch Β· Dinner βΎ
Explore the historic KaleiΓ§i district, visiting Hadrianβs Gate, the Clock Tower, and the Broken Minaret. Learn about the city's Roman and Byzantine past before heading to the beautiful Duden Waterfalls, where the water cascades into the Mediterranean. The afternoon is free for you to explore the marina or relax at your leisure.
Day 9 Antalya, Istanbul - Istanbul π½ Breakfast βΎ
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Antalya before your transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy the diverse sights and sounds of Istanbul at your own pace.
Day 10 Istanbul π½ Breakfast βΎ
Enjoy a boat cruise along the Bosphorus, passing palaces, fortresses, and wooden villas that line the shores of Europe and Asia. Beylerbeyi Palace, Rumeli Fortress and Ortakoy are seen from the water; afterwards cross the Bosphorus Bridge and ascend Camlica Hill for a panoramic view of the city. The afternoon includes a shopping tour featuring traditional carpet weaving and local handicrafts before returning to your hotel.
Day 11 Departure - Departure π½ Breakfast βΎ
After breakfast, check out of your hotel. We hope you have enjoyed your cultural and historical journey through Turkey. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey home.
What's Included
β Included
- 10 nights hotel accommodation (Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi, Pamukkale thermal hotel and Antalya)
- 10 open buffet breakfasts
- Professional English-speaking tour guides
- Arrival and return airport transfers in Istanbul
- Transportation in air-conditioned, non-smoking coaches
- Lunches and dinners as indicated in the itinerary
- All entrance fees for mentioned sites
- Guided tours: Istanbul City, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus and Sirince, Pamukkale and Hierapolis, Antalya Old City with Duden Waterfalls, Bosphorus Cruise
β Not Included
- International flights
- Domestic flight from Antalya to Istanbul (approx. EUR 80 per adult, one way)
- Optional Bosphorus dinner cruise, tandem paragliding and hot air balloon flight in Pamukkale
- Travel insurance
- Turkey entry visa
- Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and telephone calls
- Tips for guides and drivers
Where You'll Stay β Recommended Hotels
Handpicked 3-, 4- and 5-star hotels along your route. Choose your category β the price adapts.
π Istanbul
π Pamukkale
π Antalya
Exact hotels are confirmed on booking based on availability and your chosen category; equivalent alternatives may be offered.
Your Route Across Turkey
Istanbul β Gallipoli, Canakkale β Troy, Pergamon, Kusadasi β Ephesus, Sirince, Kusadasi β Pamukkale β Antalya β Antalya, Istanbul β Istanbul
Our Tour Vehicles
Modern, comfortable and fully-equipped vehicles β the same fleet we use on your tour.
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats (2+1 VIP)
π₯ 55 Seats
π₯ 54 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 50 Seats
π₯ 46 Seats
π₯ 37+2 Seats
π₯ 37 Seats
π₯ 35 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 16+1 Seats
π₯ 12+1 Seats
π₯ 6+1 Seats
Add Daily Excursions
Extra day tours you can add along your route β Istanbul, Gallipoli, Canakkale, Troy, Pergamon, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Sirince, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Antalya, Antalya, Istanbul.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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What Our Travellers Say
Real, verified reviews from travellers who explored Turkey with us.
It was important for us to have a guide who spoke Russian, and Ender was wonderful. He explained every detail at Dolmabahce Palace. The Princes Islands day trip was a beautiful break from the busy city.
Our guide Ender was incredibly knowledgeable about Turkish history. The hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in Cappadocia was the highlight of our trip. Everything was perfectly organized β from airport pick-up to the last d...
Ender was our Italian-speaking guide and we felt like family. He took us to local spots tourists never see. The hotel choice in Sultanahmet was perfect for walking everywhere.
10+ years later we still talk about our Cappadocia balloon ride and the Bosphorus sunset cruise. Some memories are timeless. Thank you Inca Tour!













