Ottoman Adventure 15 Day Tour 

Welcome to Turkey!

Your incredible journey begins with a seamless transfer service from Kusadasi Harbour, Izmir Airport, or local bus stations straight to your hotel for check-in. Take some time to settle in, relax, and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.

Enjoy your first night in the Ephesus region, staying in either Selcuk or Kusadai, where you’ll be surrounded by rich history and stunning coastal scenery.

Overnight in Selcuk or Kusadasi.

Today, your adventure truly begins as you explore one of the most remarkable ancient sites in the world—Ephesus. After being picked up from your accommodation, you’ll be taken on a journey through time, walking among some of the best-preserved marble ruins of the ancient world.

Once one of the Ancient Capitals of Roman Asia, Ephesus was the second-largest city of the ancient world, home to over 200,000 residents more than 3,000 years ago. As you explore, you’ll witness the grandeur of this ancient metropolis, from the awe-inspiring Library of Celsus to the vast Great Theatre that once hosted up to 25,000 spectators.

Your journey continues with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred Christian pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary spent the final years of her life. The tranquil setting and deep historical significance make this an unforgettable stop.

Next, marvel at one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the legendary Temple of Artemis. Though only ruins remain today, the temple once stood as a monumental tribute to the goddess Artemis, drawing visitors from across the ancient world.

After an inspiring day of exploration, you’ll return to your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Overnight in the Ephesus region (Selcuk or Kusadasi).

Today is yours to explore the Ephesus region at your own pace, whether you choose history, shopping, or adventure.

🌊 Relax by the Coast – Take a local bus to Kusadasi, a lively seaside town perfect for a leisurely stroll along the marina, enjoying the cafes, or indulging in some “genuine fake” shopping at its bustling markets.

🍷 Visit Sirince Wine Village – Travel to the charming Greek village of Sirince, known for its cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and delicious fruit wines. Spend your time wine tasting, exploring local craft shops, and soaking up the village’s peaceful atmosphere.

💦 Water Park Adventure – If you’re in the mood for a fun-filled day in the water, head to one of the two major water parks near Kuşadası, where you’ll find thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.

No matter how you choose to spend the day, take time to enjoy the beauty and culture of this incredible region.

Overnight in the Ephesus region (Selcuk or Kusadasi).

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Selcuk or Kusadasi to begin your journey to the breathtaking natural wonder of Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish.

Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch before taking in the magnificent travertine terraces—a surreal landscape of cascading mineral-rich thermal pools formed over thousands of years. Walk along the white limestone cliffs, where the thermal waters create an otherworldly beauty unlike anywhere else in the world.

Next, explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, a Greco-Roman city that once thrived as a healing and cultural center. Visit its well-preserved theater, necropolis, and Roman baths, all set against the stunning backdrop of Pamukkale’s natural wonders.

After a day of exploration, continue your journey towards the picturesque seaside town of Fethiye, known for its turquoise waters, vibrant atmosphere, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Overnight in Fethiye.

Today is yours to explore the beautiful region of Fethiye at your own leisure. With so many exciting options, you can tailor the day to your interests, whether you seek adventure, history, or relaxation.

Here are some optional activities you might want to consider:

🌿 Jeep Safari – Embark on an off-road adventure through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and hidden waterfalls.
🪂 Paragliding over Oludeniz – Soar high above the famous Blue Lagoon, taking in one of the world’s most breathtaking aerial views.
🛁 Mud Baths & Thermal Springs – Enjoy a rejuvenating experience at the Dalyan mud baths, known for their natural healing properties.
🏚️ Visit Kayakoy Ghost Town – Hop on a local bus and explore the eerie yet fascinating abandoned Greek village of Kayakoy, rich in history and charm.
🌊 Boat Trips & Beaches – Take a boat trip to hidden coves or relax on the stunning Butterfly Valley beach.

As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious meal at Fethiye’s famous fish market, where you can select your fresh seafood and have it cooked to perfection at a nearby restaurant. Alternatively, explore the town’s vibrant marina and charming local restaurants for a memorable dining experience.

Overnight in Fethiye.

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Fethiye and transferred to board your traditional Alaturca Gulet, marking the start of an unforgettable 4-day cruise along the stunning Mediterranean coastline.

Today’s highlights include:

🦋 Butterfly Valley – A lush, secluded paradise surrounded by towering cliffs, home to over 100 species of butterflies. Take a hike through the valley, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the pristine beach.

🌊 Oludeniz & Blue Lagoon – Visit the world-famous Blue Lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or even paragliding over the spectacular bay.

🏝️ St. Nicholas Island – As evening approaches, the gulet anchors down at St. Nicholas Island, an ancient site filled with ruins and stunning views. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the island for an unforgettable sunset, one of the most magical moments of the entire cruise.

Spend the night aboard your comfortable gulet cabin, drifting off to the gentle sounds of the Mediterranean.

Overnight: Cabin cruise

Wake up to the serene sounds of the Mediterranean as your gulet sets sail for another day of adventure. Along the way, you’ll make several refreshing stops for swimming, breakfast, and lunch, enjoying the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coastal scenery.

🏝️ Swim & Relax – Take in the tranquil bays and secluded coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on deck under the sun.

🏘️ Explore Kas – Arriving in the charming seaside town of Kas, you’ll have time to wander its cobblestone streets, soaking up the laid-back atmosphere of this picturesque fishing village turned boutique paradise.

💎 Shopping & Culture – Kas is known for its abundance of jewelry shops, where you can find beautiful handcrafted silver and gemstone pieces. You might also explore the local markets, cozy cafés, and art galleries, immersing yourself in the town’s vibrant charm.

As the day winds down, return to the gulet to enjoy another peaceful night at sea, drifting off under a sky full of stars.

Overnight: Cabin cruise

Today’s journey takes you through one of the most fascinating historical sites along the Mediterranean—the Sunken City of Kekova.

🏛️ Sail Past the Sunken City – Once part of an ancient Lycian settlement, this area was submerged by a powerful earthquake centuries ago, leaving behind a mystical underwater city. As your gulet glides slowly past, you’ll get a closer look at the ancient ruins, including stone foundations, staircases, and walls now resting beneath the shimmering waters.

🏝️ Explore Kekova Island – After passing the Sunken City, you’ll anchor on the opposite side of Kekova Island, where you can step ashore to explore the remaining ruins.

🪦 Lycian Tombs & Simena Castle – Wander through the island and hike up to the Lycian rock tombs, remnants of a once-thriving civilization. For an even more spectacular viewpoint, climb to the top of Simena Castle, a Byzantine fortress offering stunning panoramic views over the turquoise coastline you’ve been sailing along.

After a day filled with history, breathtaking scenery, and exploration, return to your gulet for another peaceful night at sea under the starlit Mediterranean sky.

Overnight: Cabin cruise

This morning, you will disembark from your gulet and begin your journey to Olympos by bus, leaving the turquoise waters behind as you head inland to a place of myth and history.

🌿 Explore Olympos National Park – Upon arrival, step into a lush natural paradise filled with ancient ruins, hidden pathways, and a unique mix of history and nature. As you wander through the remains of an ancient Lycian city, you’ll see crumbling temples, Roman baths, and sarcophagi overgrown with vibrant greenery, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

🏖️ Relax on Olympos Beach – After exploring the ruins, continue down to Olympos Beach, a secluded, picturesque shoreline surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forests. Enjoy some sunbathing, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply unwinding on the shore, soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

After a day of adventure and relaxation, settle into your accommodation for a tranquil evening in this laid-back, bohemian retreat.

Overnight: Olympos

Today is yours to enjoy a final day in Olympos, soaking up the last moments of sunshine and tranquility before heading to the vibrant city of Istanbul.

🏖️ Relax & Swim – Spend the day lounging on the beach, taking a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean, or simply unwinding in the peaceful atmosphere of Olympos.

🌿 Optional Activities – If you’re feeling adventurous, you may choose to explore more of the surrounding national park, hike to the Chimera (eternal flames of Olympos), or visit nearby hidden coves.

🚍 Evening Departure – In the early evening, you will depart Olympos and travel to Antalya, where you’ll board your overnight bus bound for Istanbul. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you make your way to Turkey’s most iconic city.

Overnight: Overnight bus to Istanbul

After your overnight bus journey, you will arrive in the vibrant and historic city of Istanbul, where East meets West in a mesmerizing blend of cultures, architecture, and traditions.

🚶‍♂️ Free Day to Explore – Today is yours to wander at your own pace, whether that means getting a sneak peek at tomorrow’s iconic sites, indulging in some shopping, or discovering Istanbul’s hidden gems.

🕌 Optional Activities & Must-See Spots:

• Stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district and take in the exterior beauty of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace before your official visits tomorrow.
• Wander through the Grand Bazaar or Spice Market for unique souvenirs, Turkish delights, and handcrafted goods.
• Take a leisurely Bosphorus ferry ride, soaking in the stunning skyline of Istanbul.
• Visit a local café or tea house, sipping on traditional Turkish tea or coffee while watching the bustling city life.
• Discover off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, such as Balat with its colorful houses or Kadıkoy on the Asian side for a different perspective of the city.

🌙 Evening in Istanbul – As night falls, enjoy a delicious Turkish meal at a local restaurant, whether it’s a rooftop terrace with a city view or a traditional meyhane (Turkish tavern) with mezze and raki.

Overnight: Istanbul

🚌 Early Morning Departure – Today, you will be picked up early from your accommodation and begin your journey to the Gallipoli Peninsula, one of the most significant battle sites of World War I.

🍽️ Lunch on Arrival – Upon reaching Gallipoli, you will enjoy a delicious lunch, preparing for a powerful and immersive day ahead.

🎖️ Guided Tour of Gallipoli – Your expert guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of the battlefields, cemeteries, and memorials, sharing the stories of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie that emerged from this historic conflict.

🏛️ Key Highlights of the Tour:

• ANZAC Cove – The landing site of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) on April 25, 1915.
• Lone Pine Cemetery & Memorial – Dedicated to the Australians who lost their lives in the battle.
• Chunuk Bair – The New Zealand memorial site, marking a significant battle where Allied forces briefly held the ridge.
• Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Memorial – Honoring the bravery of Turkish soldiers who fought fiercely to defend their land.
• Original Trenches & Tunnels – Walk through some of the remaining trenches, where the battles took place, offering a poignant glimpse into the realities of war.
• Gallipoli Museum – View old war artifacts, personal items, and letters that have been discovered over the years, providing deep insights into the experiences of the soldiers.

⚔️ A Time for Reflection – This tour is not just about war but also about remembrance and reconciliation. As you stand on these historic grounds, you’ll have time to reflect on the bravery, loss, and the unexpected friendships that formed between soldiers on opposing sides.

🚍 Return to Istanbul – After an emotional and thought-provoking day, you will travel back to Istanbul, arriving in the evening.

🌙 Overnight in Istanbul.

Today, you will immerse yourself in the rich history and enchanting atmosphere of Istanbul, a city that has been a bridge between continents, empires, and cultures for centuries.

🚐 Pickup from Your Accommodation – Your guided tour begins as you are picked up from your hotel in central Istanbul.

🏛️ Highlights of Your Istanbul Tour:

• 🕌 Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) – One of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul, famous for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and impressive domes and minarets. (Please note: On Fridays, access is limited due to prayer times.)
• 🌟 Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) – A breathtaking masterpiece that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing Byzantine and Ottoman architectural splendor.
• 🏰 Topkapi Palace – The magnificent palace of the Ottoman Sultans, where you will explore its lavish rooms, ancient treasures, and stunning gardens, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus. (Closed on Tuesdays.)

🛍️ Shopping & Cultural Experience:

• Grand Bazaar – One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, where you can browse thousands of stalls selling handmade carpets, jewelry, ceramics, and antiques. (Closed on Sundays.)
• Spice Bazaar – A sensory delight filled with the aromas of Turkish tea, exotic spices, and traditional Turkish delight.

💡 Our Recommendation:
After your guided tour, if you have time and energy, we highly recommend returning to the Spice Bazaar on your own. Take in the vibrant sights, rich scents, and colorful stalls at your own pace, and pick up some authentic Turkish flavors to take home.

🚍 Important Notes:

• Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.
• Blue Mosque access is limited on Fridays due to prayers.
• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
• Hotel Pickups: We provide pickups from centrally located areas, including Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and Taksim. If your accommodation is outside these areas, an extra charge may apply—please check with our crew for details.

🌙 Overnight: Istanbul

Today, you will embark on a breathtaking Bosphorus cruise, followed by a city tour showcasing some of the best viewpoints in Istanbul. Prepare to experience the magnificent palaces, historic fortresses, and stunning waterfront views that define this legendary city.

🚐 Morning Pickup & Dolmabahce Palace Tour
Before setting sail, your day begins with a visit to the Dolmabahce Palace, a grand architectural masterpiece built between 1842 and 1853. This opulent palace, home to the last six Ottoman Sultans, also served as the summer residence of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk until his passing in 1938. Its design is a stunning blend of Neoclassical, Baroque, and Rococo styles, offering a glimpse into the lavish life of the Ottoman rulers.
(Note: Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays, so tours on this day begin at 11:30 AM instead.)

⛴️ Bosphorus Cruise – Sailing Through History
After the palace visit, you will board your boat and begin your Bosphorus cruise, sailing from the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

🏰 Sights Along the Cruise:

• Maidens Tower (Kiz Kulesi) – A legendary island tower that has served as a lighthouse, a radio tower, a hospital, and now a restaurant and museum.
• The Old City Walls of Constantinople – Built to protect Topkapi Palace from invaders, these walls withstood sieges for over 1,600 years, falling only twice in history.
• Kucuksu Palace – A small yet intricately designed Ottoman hunting lodge built by Sultan Abdulmecid, where you’ll stop for one hour to explore.
• Ciragan Palace – Once the magnificent residence of the Sultans, this palace burned down in 1910 but was later restored and converted into a luxurious hotel in the 1990s.
• Ortakoy Mosque – Known for its stunning pink mosaics, this mosque is a unique landmark along the waterfront.
• Bosphorus Bridge – One of the iconic suspension bridges connecting Europe and Asia.
• Beylerbeyi Palace – The summer retreat of Ottoman Sultans, offering a majestic view from the Bosphorus.
• Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge – Named after the Ottoman conqueror of Constantinople.
• Rumeli Castle – Built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmed II, this fortress played a key role in the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans.

🚎 Panoramic Bus Tour & Pierre Loti Hill Cable Car Ride
After the cruise, you will board a bus for a scenic city tour, beginning in the Sultanahmet district before heading to one of Istanbul’s most picturesque viewpoints.

🌄 Pierre Loti Hill – Named after the French novelist Pierre Loti, who adored Istanbul, this hill offers one of the most romantic panoramic views of the city and the Golden Horn. You will take a cable car ride to the top, where you can sip on authentic Turkish coffee while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The ride back down offers even more stunning perspectives of the city.

🏛️ Final Views of the Old City Walls – As you return to your hotel, the bus will take you around the ancient Old City Walls, offering a final glimpse into Istanbul’s historical defenses.

🕔 Return to Your Hotel: Around 17:00-18:00

📌 Important Notes:

• Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays; on this day, the tour starts at 11:30 AM instead.
• Dolmabahce Palace, Kucuksu Palace, and Pierre Loti Hill are the only stops where you will explore on foot; all other sights are viewed from the boat or bus.

🌙 Overnight in Istanbul

Today marks the end of your incredible Ottoman Adventure! We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Turkey’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

✈️ Need Help with Onward Travel?
If you require any assistance with ongoing travel arrangements, whether it’s:
✔️ Domestic flights or bus tickets to your next destination
✔️ Additional accommodation bookings in Istanbul or elsewhere
✔️ Travel recommendations for other parts of Turkey
✔️ Any last-minute queries or assistance

Our team is here to help! Please don’t hesitate to reach out, and we’ll be happy to assist you in making your onward journey smooth and hassle-free.

Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back to Turkey again soon!