18 Day Anzac Day, Gulet Cruise & Total Exploration Tour

Welcome to Turkey!

Your incredible journey begins today as you arrive at Istanbul Airport, where our team will greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Once settled, take the rest of the day to unwind, explore the vibrant streets of Istanbul at your own pace, or savor a traditional Turkish meal at a local restaurant. Whether you choose to relax or immerse yourself in the city’s bustling atmosphere, this is the perfect introduction to your adventure in Turkey.

Overnight: Istanbul

Explore Istanbul’s Hidden Gems

Uncover the lesser-known yet stunning parts of Istanbul on this immersive journey that blends vibrant culture, rich history, and mouthwatering culinary delights.

Tour Highlights:

🛍 Grand Bazaar – Begin your day at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and most historic covered markets. With over 4,399 shops, 2,195 workshops, and 497 stalls, it’s a treasure trove of handcrafted jewelry, intricate textiles, ceramics, and unique souvenirs—a shopper’s paradise.

🚢 Bosphorus Cruise – Set sail on the iconic Bosphorus Strait, the waterway that separates Europe from Asia. Enjoy panoramic views of Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and historic landmarks, as well as the architectural splendor of the bridges connecting the two continents.

🌿 Taksim Square – Experience the lively energy of Taksim Square, Istanbul’s social and cultural hub. Watch street performers, mingle with locals, or simply soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant meeting place.

🚶 Walking Tour from Istiklal Street to Galata Bridge:

• Istiklal Street – Stroll through this bustling pedestrian avenue, lined with historic buildings, cozy cafés, and stylish boutiques.
• Galata Tower – Pass by the medieval stone tower, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.
• Karakoy Waterfront – Wander through this eclectic district, where trendy cafés, art galleries, and historic architecture come together in a lively cultural hub.
• Galata Bridge – Conclude your walk on Galata Bridge, where you can witness local fishermen, bustling eateries, and stunning sunset views over the Golden Horn.

Culinary Delights 🍽️

As you explore, take the opportunity to indulge in Istanbul’s vibrant street food scene. From savory delights like simit and börek to sweet treats like baklava and Turkish delight, optional tastings offer an authentic taste of Turkish cuisine.

Important Notes:

✅ Street Food: Optional tastings are available but not included in the tour price.
✅ Lunch: Lunch is not included in the package.

🏨 Overnight: Istanbul

Sights Visited

Discover the Historic Heart of Istanbul

🕗 08:30 AM – Pickup from Accommodation
Start your day with a guided tour of Istanbul’s most captivating historical sites. Your expert guide will pick you up from your accommodation, ready to unveil the wonders of this magical and mystical city.

Tour Highlights:

🕌 Blue Mosque – Step inside one of Istanbul’s most breathtaking landmarks, adorned with thousands of blue Iznik tiles, towering minarets, and a peaceful ambiance that reflects the grandeur of Ottoman architecture. (Please note: Limited access on Fridays due to prayer services.)

🏛 Hippodrome & Obelisk – Walk through the historic Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the vibrant center of Byzantine chariot races and political gatherings. Admire the ancient Obelisk of Theodosius, the Serpentine Column, and the German Fountain, each with its own fascinating story.

✨ Hagia Sophia – Marvel at the sheer scale and beauty of the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO-listed wonder that has stood as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum, bridging Byzantine and Ottoman history with its intricate mosaics and grand dome.

🏰 Topkapi Palace – Enter the opulent world of the Ottoman sultans as you explore Topkapi Palace, home to centuries of imperial treasures, including jewel-encrusted artifacts, sacred relics, and lavish royal chambers. Stroll through its stunning courtyards and gardens with breathtaking views over the Bosphorus. (Closed on Tuesdays.)

🛍 Shopping & Local Treasures – Enjoy some time to browse Istanbul’s renowned markets and artisan shops, offering a wide array of handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, and authentic Turkish souvenirs.

Our Recommendation:

Once your tour ends, why not continue exploring? We highly recommend a visit to the Spice Bazaar, where you can lose yourself in a world of aromatic teas, exotic spices, and traditional Turkish delights. While this is not included in the tour package, it’s a perfect way to round off your day before making your own way back to your hotel.

Important Notes:

✅ Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
✅ Blue Mosque has limited access on Fridays due to prayer services.

🚗 Hotel Pickup Information:
Pickups are available from hotels in Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, Laleli, Aksaray, and Taksim. If your accommodation is outside these areas, an additional charge may apply. Feel free to check with our team for details.

🏨 Overnight: Istanbul

Sights Visited

Fully Guided Gallipoli Battlefield Tour (1:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Step into one of the most significant battlegrounds of World War I with a fully guided tour of Gallipoli, where the ANZAC legend was born. This moving experience takes you through the key historical sites, memorials, and battlefields, offering a deeper understanding of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of those who fought here.

🌍 Sites to Visit in Gallipoli

📍 Brighton Beach – Stand on the shores where ANZAC troops originally planned to land, only to be redirected to the challenging terrain of Anzac Cove.

📍 Beach Cemetery – Pay tribute at the final resting place of John Simpson Kirkpatrick, the legendary “Man with the Donkey,” and many other ANZAC soldiers.

📍 Anzac Cove – Visit the most famous landing site of the Gallipoli campaign, where thousands of troops braved unimaginable conditions in April 1915.

📍 Ariburnu Cemetery – A solemn burial ground where many ANZAC troops found their final resting place, with breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea.

📍 Anzac Commemorative Site – A place of remembrance where annual Anzac Day ceremonies take place, honoring those who fought and fell on these shores.

📍 Respect to Mehmetçik Statue – A powerful monument dedicated to the Turkish soldiers who fought bravely alongside their ANZAC counterparts.

📍 Lone Pine Australian Memorial – Commemorating Australian soldiers who lost their lives in one of the most intense battles of the campaign.

📍 Johnston’s Jolly – Explore preserved trenches and tunnels used by both Turkish and Allied forces, offering a glimpse into the realities of trench warfare.

📍 Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery – A tribute to the heroic Turkish regiment, who fought with unwavering bravery and suffered heavy losses.

📍 The Nek – The site of the tragic ANZAC charge, immortalized in the film Gallipoli—a place where hundreds of soldiers fell in just minutes.

📍 Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial – A poignant tribute to New Zealand’s role in the campaign, marking one of the few successful gains of the ANZAC troops.

🏨 Evening: Hotel Check-In
🕕 6:00 PM – After an emotional and enriching day, check in at your hotel in Eceabat or Canakkale, where you can relax, reflect, and process the powerful stories and experiences from the Gallipoli Peninsula.

🛏 Overnight: Eceabat or Canakkale

Sights Visited

🌅 Morning: Troy Tour (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey to the legendary city of Troy, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Your expert guide will take you through the layers of history that span over 4,000 years, from the Bronze Age to the Roman period.

🏛 Highlights of the Troy Tour:

📍 Trojan Horse – See the famous replica of the mythical wooden horse from the legendary Trojan War, famously told in Homer’s Iliad.
📍 3,700-Year-Old City Walls – Walk along the remains of Troy’s mighty fortifications, which protected the city for centuries.
📍 Houses of Troy I – Explore the remnants of one of the earliest human settlements, dating back to 3000 B.C.

📍 Bouleuterion (Senate Building) – Stand in the location where government officials and leaders made important decisions in ancient Troy.
📍 The Odeon (Concert Hall) – Discover the ruins of this ancient music and performance venue, where Troy’s elite once enjoyed entertainment.
📍 Troy I to Troy IX – Witness the layers of civilization built atop one another over thousands of years, providing a glimpse into the city’s continuous habitation.

🕛 12:00 PM – Return to Eceabat or Canakkale for an afternoon of relaxation before your journey to Anzac Cove.

🌴 Free Time (12:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Enjoy your afternoon at leisure before your evening departure. Whether you prefer exploring historic sites or unwinding by the sea, Canakkale has much to offer.

🏰 Suggested Activities in Canakkale:
🔹 Cimenlik Castle – A stunning Ottoman-era fortress overlooking the Dardanelles Strait, offering breathtaking views and historical exhibits.
🔹 Beaches – Unwind at Habbele Plaji or other serene beaches along the coastline.
🔹 Canakkale Naval Museum – Discover the region’s maritime history, with exhibits detailing naval battles and the Gallipoli campaign.
🔹 Local Cafés & Markets – Take a stroll along Canakkale’s waterfront and explore its charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and Turkish coffee houses.

🚍 Departure to Anzac Cove (8:00 PM)
🕗 8:00 PM – Board the tour bus from Eceabat and head to Anzac Cove, where the Anzac Day Dawn Service will take place.
Upon arrival, you will:
✅ Find your designated seating area in the grandstands or settle into the sleeping grounds.
✅ Watch historical documentaries and films throughout the night, providing a deeper understanding of the ANZAC campaign and the significance of Gallipoli.
✅ Reflect and prepare for an unforgettable and emotional experience at the Dawn Service.

🛏 Overnight: Anzac Cove (no hotel accommodation)

Sights Visited

🛍 A lunch box will be provided for your convenience, ensuring you are well-prepared for this solemn and historic day of remembrance.

🕊 Ceremony Schedule
🌅 5:30 AM – Dawn Service at Anzac Cove
Begin the day with the Dawn Service, a deeply moving and emotional tribute honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the ANZAC soldiers who landed at Gallipoli in 1915. As the sun rises over the Aegean Sea, this solemn gathering serves as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and unity.

📜 Highlights:
🔹 Hear poignant speeches from military and government officials.
🔹 Laying of wreaths in remembrance of fallen soldiers.
🔹 Observe a minute of silence to honor those who served.
🔹 Listen to traditional hymns and the playing of The Last Post.

🇦🇺 10:30 AM – Australian National Service at Lone Pine
Next, travel to Lone Pine, the site of one of the most significant battles of the Gallipoli campaign. This service honors Australian troops who fought bravely in the trenches during the battle of Lone Pine.

📜 Highlights:
🔹 Commemorative speeches reflecting on the heroism and sacrifice of Australian soldiers.
🔹 Acknowledgment of descendants of the fallen and their enduring legacy.

🇳🇿 11:45 AM – New Zealand National Service at Chunuk Bair
The final ceremony takes place at Chunuk Bair, where New Zealand troops played a pivotal role in the Gallipoli campaign. This service recognizes their bravery, endurance, and sacrifices during the battle to capture this strategic high ground.

📜 Highlights:
🔹 A moment of remembrance for New Zealand soldiers who fought courageously.
🔹 Traditional haka tribute in honor of those who gave their lives.
🔹 Reflection on the impact of Gallipoli on New Zealand’s national identity.

🌿 Afternoon: Return to Eceabat or Canakkale
Following the final ceremony at Chunuk Bair, you will depart for Eceabat or Canakkale, where you will have the opportunity to:
✅ Rest and reflect on the day’s moving ceremonies.
✅ Explore the town at your own pace, soaking in the history and significance of Gallipoli.
✅ Enjoy a quiet evening, unwinding after an emotional and meaningful day.

📍 Overnight: Eceabat or Canakkale

Sights Visited

📍 Morning Departure
⏰ 10:00 AM – Begin your day with a hotel pickup and depart for Bergama (Pergamon), one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world.

🏛️ Pergamon City & Acropolis Tour (1:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
After a delicious lunch in Bergama, embark on a fully guided tour of Pergamon’s Acropolis, once a center of art, learning, and culture during the Hellenistic era.

🔹 Sites to Visit in Pergamon:

✔️ 🏛️ The Acropolis – The heart of ancient Pergamon, home to grand temples, public buildings, and a royal palace.
✔️ 📚 Library of Pergamon – Once housing over 200,000 scrolls, this was one of the greatest libraries of the ancient world.
✔️ 🗡️ Temple of Athena – A temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and war, showcasing Greek architectural brilliance.
✔️ ⚡ Altar of Zeus – A monumental structure celebrated for its elaborate relief carvings. (The altar’s remains are now in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin.)

✔️ 🏋️ Gymnasium – Built across multiple terraces, it reflects Pergamon’s dedication to education and fitness.
✔️ 🛍️ Lower Agora – Walk through the ancient marketplace where merchants and traders once thrived.
✔️ 🎭 Hellenistic Theater – A spectacular hillside theater seating 10,000 people, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
✔️ 🍷 Temple of Dionysus – A sanctuary dedicated to the god of wine and revelry, highlighting Pergamon’s artistic achievements.

🌇 Evening: Transfer to Ephesus Region
⏰ 5:30 PM – Conclude your tour and begin your journey to Ephesus.
🚐 8:30 PM – Arrive at your hotel in Selcuk.
🚐 9:30 PM – Arrive at your hotel in Kusadasi.

📍 Overnight: Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)

Sights Visited

⏰ 8:30 AM – Begin your full-day guided tour of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved and most significant ancient cities in the world. A former commercial and religious hub of the Roman Empire, Ephesus is home to some of the most stunning archaeological ruins.

🔹 Ephesus Full-Day Tour Highlights:

✔️ 🏛️ Ephesus Ancient City – Walk through the well-preserved marble streets of this grand city, once the second-largest city of the ancient world and home to over 200,000 residents more than 3,000 years ago. Key highlights include:

📖 Celsus Library – Marvel at the impressive two-story facade, one of the most iconic sites of Ephesus. Once housing over 12,000 scrolls, it was one of the largest libraries of the ancient world.

🎭 The Great Theatre – A massive amphitheater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. This venue hosted gladiator fights, dramatic performances, and public assemblies.

🏛️ Temple of Hadrian – A beautifully preserved temple showcasing exquisite carvings and sculptures, dedicated to Emperor Hadrian.

🏡 Terrace Houses – Explore the luxurious residences of the city’s wealthiest citizens, featuring mosaics, frescoes, and advanced plumbing systems.

✔️ 🌿 House of the Virgin Mary – Visit this spiritual and sacred site, believed to be the final home of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Recognized by Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI, it remains an important pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims.

✔️ 🌟 Temple of Artemis – Stand before the remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Once a grand temple dedicated to Artemis (the goddess of the hunt and fertility), it was one of the largest temples ever built in antiquity.

🌙 Overnight Stay
📍 Overnight: Ephesus Region (Selcuk or Kusadasi)

Sights Visited

🏛️ Discover Pamukkale & Hierapolis – A Natural & Historical Marvel
⏰ 8:30 AM – Begin your day with a hotel pickup and set off for the breathtaking Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famously known as the “Cotton Castle” for its surreal white travertine terraces filled with mineral-rich thermal waters.

🔹 Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour Highlights:

✔️ 🍽️ Lunch on Arrival – Enjoy a delicious lunch in Pamukkale before beginning your exploration of its natural and historical wonders.
✔️ 🌊 Pamukkale Travertines – Admire the dazzling white terraces, formed over thousands of years by cascading thermal waters. The natural thermal pools create a stunning contrast with the bright turquoise waters, making it one of Turkey’s most photogenic and breathtaking sites. (Optional: You may walk barefoot on the terraces and experience the warm mineral water firsthand.)
✔️ 🏛️ Hierapolis Ancient City – Located just above the travertines, Hierapolis was an important Roman spa city. Explore its well-preserved ruins, including:

♨️ Roman Baths – A remarkable example of Roman luxury and advanced engineering, once used by ancient citizens for relaxation and healing.
🎭 Ancient Theatre – A magnificent amphitheater with a seating capacity of 12,000, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
⚰️ Necropolis (City of the Dead) – One of the largest ancient cemeteries in the world, with thousands of ornate tombs and sarcophagi from various civilizations.

🚐 Afternoon: Transfer to Fethiye – A Stunning Seaside Retreat
After a day of exploring Pamukkale and Hierapolis, your journey continues to the charming coastal town of Fethiye, known for its turquoise waters, picturesque marina, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

📍 Overnight: Fethiye
This day offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable experience in one of Turkey’s most iconic destinations. 🌿🏛️✨

Sights Visited

⛵ Begin Your Mediterranean Gulet Cruise – Sail into Paradise!

⏰ 9:45 AM – After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Fethiye and transferred to one of our Alaturca Gulets. Settle into your cabin, relax on deck, and get ready for an unforgettable 4-day journey along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline.

🌊 Gulet Cruise Highlights for the Day:
✔️ 🦋 Butterfly Valley – Your first stop is Butterfly Valley, a lush and secluded paradise home to diverse butterfly species, surrounded by towering cliffs. Explore the valley, take a refreshing swim, or simply soak in the serene natural beauty.
✔️ 🏝️ Oludeniz/Blue Lagoon – Visit Turkey’s most iconic beach! The Blue Lagoon is world-famous for its crystal-clear waters and calm, postcard-perfect scenery. Spend time swimming, sunbathing, or exploring this tranquil paradise.
✔️ 🌅 St. Nicholas Island – Anchor here for the evening. Take a short hike to the top of the island and witness an unforgettable sunset, one of the most breathtaking views of the entire cruise! 🌇

🪂 Optional Activity: Paragliding from Mount Baba Dag (For Thrill-Seekers!)
For adrenaline lovers, take on the ultimate adventure—paragliding over Oludeniz!
🚀 What to Expect: Soar through the sky from the towering Mount Baba Dag, with stunning aerial views of the Blue Lagoon and Oludeniz Beach.
🏆 One of the World’s Best Paragliding Locations!
⚡ Unforgettable Experience: A bucket-list adventure for daredevils!
💰 Not Included: This is an optional activity available at an additional cost.

📍 Overnight: Onboard Gulet Cabin Cruise

💙 What Makes This Day Special?
Sailing on a traditional wooden Gulet.
Exploring hidden Mediterranean gems.
Swimming in turquoise waters.
Relaxing on deck as you sail into the sunset.

✨ The perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty!

Sights Visited

🏝️ Discover Kas & Relax Along the Mediterranean

🌊 Today, your Gulet cruise continues with scenic stops along the stunning Mediterranean coastline. You’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, and unwind as you sail toward one of Turkey’s most picturesque seaside towns.

🌅 Explore the Charming Town of Kas
🛍️ Shopping: Kas is famous for its handcrafted jewelry, with numerous boutique shops offering unique, locally-made pieces—perfect as a souvenir or gift!
🏛️ Stroll Through History: Wander through the cobblestone streets of this traditional fishing village, where old Greek and Ottoman architecture create a postcard-perfect setting.
🍹 Café Culture & Harbor Views: Take in the laid-back vibes of Kas’s vibrant cafés, or relax at the harbor, watching the boats gently sway against the backdrop of stunning turquoise waters.

🤿 Optional Activity: Scuba Diving in Kas (For Adventure Lovers!)
Kas is considered Turkey’s top diving destination! If you’re feeling adventurous, take the plunge and explore its fascinating underwater world.
✔️ What You’ll See:
Crystal-clear waters & colorful marine life 🐠
Underwater caves & canyons
Ancient shipwrecks & hidden ruins ⛵
✔️ Diving Levels: Suitable for both beginners & experienced divers.
📌 Note: This is an optional activity and not included in the tour package.

🌙 Evening: Back on Board
After your leisurely afternoon in Kas, rejoin your Gulet at Kas Harbour. Relax under the stars as the boat sets sail toward your next breathtaking destination.
📍 Overnight: Onboard Gulet Cabin Cruise

💙 What Makes This Day Special?
Sailing the crystal-clear Mediterranean.
Exploring a charming, historic seaside town.
Relaxing, shopping, or diving—your choice!
Sunset views from your floating hotel. 🌅

✨ A perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation!

Sights Visited

🏝️ Discover the Sunken City & Kekova
Today, your Gulet cruise takes you to one of Turkey’s most fascinating hidden gems—the Sunken City of Kekova. This unique historical site reveals ancient ruins submerged beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

🌊 Sail Past the Sunken City of Kekova
✔️ A Lost City Beneath the Waves 🌊
Cruise slowly past Kekova Island, where an earthquake centuries ago submerged part of the ancient Lycian city.
Peer into the turquoise waters to spot the outlines of buildings, staircases, and streets that have remained untouched for centuries.
No swimming or diving allowed—the site is protected as an archaeological treasure.

🏛️ Explore Kekova Island: A Step Back in Time
✔️ Lycian Tombs 🏺
Hike up to the fascinating rock-cut tombs, carved into the cliffs by the Lycian civilization over 2,000 years ago.
Marvel at their intricate architecture, a signature of Lycian burial traditions.
✔️ Simena Castle: The Ultimate Viewpoint 🏰
Climb to the top of Simena Castle, a historic fortress offering stunning panoramic views of Kekova and the Mediterranean.
Explore the small amphitheater inside the castle, once used by locals for entertainment and gatherings.
Enjoy the breathtaking contrast of ancient ruins, lush green hills, and the deep blue sea.

🌙 Evening: Another Magical Night at Sea
Enjoy dinner under the stars on your Gulet as you sail toward your next breathtaking destination.
Relax on deck and soak in the peaceful sounds of the sea.
📍 Overnight: Onboard Gulet Cabin Cruise

💙 What Makes This Day Special?
Witness an ancient city frozen in time beneath the sea.
Hike up to Lycian tombs & a medieval castle with unforgettable views.
Sail through the serene waters of the Mediterranean, exploring hidden gems.
✨ A day filled with history, nature, and pure Mediterranean magic! 🌊🏰

Sights Visited

🏝️ Farewell Gulet Cruise & Discover Olympos
10:30 AM – Bid farewell to your Gulet this morning as your Mediterranean cruise adventure comes to an end. From here, board a bus to Olympos, one of Turkey’s most beautiful and historic coastal destinations.

🌿 Explore Olympos National Park

✔️ Ancient Ruins Hidden in Nature 🏛️
Wander through the mystical ruins of Olympos, an ancient Lycian city that once thrived as a major maritime hub.
Discover fascinating rock-cut tombs, city walls, and stone bridges, now surrounded by lush greenery.
Experience the unique blend of history and nature, where ivy-covered ruins meet towering cliffs.

✔️ Relax at Olympos Beach 🏖️
Make your way down to the famous Olympos Beach, a secluded paradise with golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise Mediterranean, surrounded by stunning cliffs and ancient ruins.
Perfect spot for relaxation—unwind and soak in the breathtaking scenery.

✔️ Optional: Visit the Chimera Flames 🔥
If you’re up for an evening adventure, hike to the eternal flames of Chimera, where natural gas vents cause flames to magically rise from the rocks.
A truly surreal experience, steeped in myth and legend.

🌙 Evening: Unwind in Olympos
Settle into your unique treehouse or bungalow accommodation, a signature experience in Olympos. 🌲🏡
Enjoy a laid-back evening surrounded by nature, perfect for relaxing before your next adventure.
📍 Overnight: Olympos

💙 What Makes This Day Special?
Step into history while exploring hidden ruins in the jungle.
Swim in paradise at the stunning Olympos Beach.
Optional evening adventure: Witness the eternal flames of Chimera.

✨ The perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation! 🌊🏛️

Sights Visited

🏖️ Relax in Olympos & Travel to Cappadocia
Today is all about unwinding in paradise before heading to the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia. Enjoy a leisurely morning and afternoon in Olympos, soaking up the beauty of the Mediterranean coast before embarking on your overnight journey.

☀️ Free Time in Olympos

✔️ Relax & Swim at Olympos Beach 🏖️
Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
Sunbathe on the golden sands surrounded by lush greenery.
Perfect for a slow morning before your travels.

✔️ Explore More of Olympos 🏛️
Stroll through the ancient ruins of Olympos one last time, soaking in its mystical atmosphere.
Wander the National Park, surrounded by pine forests, scenic trails, and wildlife.
Visit local boutiques and handicraft shops for unique souvenirs.

✔️ Enjoy Local Cuisine 🍽️
Savor a relaxed lunch at one of Olympos’s charming cafés or treehouse-style restaurants.
Try fresh seafood, local mezes, and traditional Turkish dishes in a peaceful garden setting.

🌙 Evening: Travel to Cappadocia

✔️ 7:00 PM – Depart for Antalya
Board a shuttle to Antalya, where you’ll connect to your bus for Cappadocia.
Enjoy scenic sunset views over the Mediterranean as you leave the coast behind.

✔️ 10:00 PM – Board the Overnight Bus to Cappadocia 🚌
Travel in comfort on a modern, air-conditioned bus to Goreme, the heart of Cappadocia.
Relax and rest, preparing for the magical landscapes awaiting you in the morning.
📍 Overnight: Bus to Cappadocia

💙 What Makes This Day Special?
A final taste of Mediterranean paradise before heading inland.
A balance of relaxation and light exploration, letting you set the pace.
The excitement of transitioning from coastal beauty to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia.
✨ From beachside tranquility to fairytale valleys—this journey is full of contrasts! 🌊🏜️

🏜️ Welcome to Cappadocia!
After an overnight journey, wake up in the breathtaking land of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and otherworldly landscapes. 🌄

☀️ Morning: Arrival & Relaxation
✔️ Arrive in Cappadocia early in the morning.
✔️ Check into your Cave Hotel, where you’ll experience the unique charm of traditional rock-cut accommodations. 🏡
✔️ Rest, relax, or take a short nap to recover from your travels.

📍 Free Time Suggestions:
Take a short walk around Goreme or Urgup, exploring charming stone houses, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. ☕
Visit a local pottery workshop in Avanos and try your hand at Cappadocia’s famous ceramic craftsmanship. 🏺
Enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast 🍳 with gozleme (savory pancakes), fresh olives, cheeses, and local honey.

🏎️ Optional Afternoon Adventure: ATV (Quad) Bike Safari
📅 Time: ~5:00 PM, just in time for golden hour 🌅

📍 What to Expect:
✔️ Ride through the rugged trails of Cappadocia’s famous valleys.
✔️ Explore Sword Valley, Rose Valley, and Love Valley, where nature has carved incredible rock formations over thousands of years.
✔️ Capture stunning sunset photos 📸 from hidden viewpoints not easily accessible by foot.
✔️ A fun, adrenaline-filled way to see Cappadocia’s landscapes up close!
💰 Optional Extra (not included in the package).

🌙 Evening: Relax & Prepare for an Incredible Day Ahead
📍 Overnight: Cappadocia

✨ Tomorrow, an unforgettable adventure awaits—perhaps a hot air balloon flight at sunrise? 🎈🏜️

Sights Visited

🌄 South Cappadocia Tour & Optional Experiences

☀️ Early Morning: Optional Hot Air Balloon Flight 🎈
✔️ Pick-up before sunrise to head to the launch site.
✔️ Experience: Float above Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, valleys, and cave dwellings as the sunrise paints the sky with golden hues. 🌅
✔️ Panoramic views & unforgettable moments – a bucket-list experience not to be missed!
💰 Optional Extra (not included in the tour package – book in advance!).

🍽️ 9:30 AM: South Cappadocia Tour
After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of South Cappadocia, uncovering some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes and ancient wonders.

📍 Tour Highlights:
✔️ Underground City – Venture deep into an ancient multi-level city used as a refuge for early Christians.
✔️ Pigeon Valley – See the unique rock formations filled with pigeon-carved holes and learn how locals used pigeon droppings for farming.
✔️ Uchisar Castle – Climb to the highest point in Cappadocia for spectacular panoramic views.
✔️ Cavusin Village – Walk through this historic rock village, known for its cave dwellings and Byzantine churches.
✔️ Rose Valley Hike – Take a scenic 4 km trek through Meskendir Valley, Rose Valley, and Red Valley, each offering dramatic landscapes and unique formations.

🌙 Evening: Optional Turkish Night Show & Dinner 🎶
📍 Where? A traditional cave restaurant in Cappadocia.
✔️ Experience Turkish Culture – A lively night of folk dances, whirling dervishes, live music, and vibrant performances.
✔️ Enjoy a delicious Turkish dinner while soaking in the rich heritage of Turkey.
💰 Optional Extra (not included in the tour package).

🏡 Overnight: Cappadocia
✨ Another magical day in one of the world’s most unique landscapes! 🚀🏜️

Sights Visited

🏜️ Explore North Cappadocia & Overnight Bus to Istanbul

🌄 9:30 AM – North Cappadocia Tour
After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of North Cappadocia, where you’ll discover stunning rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and rich cultural heritage.

📍 Tour Highlights:
✔️ Goreme Open-Air Museum 🏛️ – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to rock-carved churches, monasteries, and colorful frescoes dating back to the Byzantine period.
✔️ Monks Valley (Pasabag) ⛪ – See Cappadocia’s most famous fairy chimneys, some used as chapels and monk dwellings.
✔️ Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley) 🏜️ – Spot whimsical rock formations that resemble animals, people, and mythical creatures.
✔️ Avanos (Pottery Town) 🏺 – Watch local artisans craft pottery using traditional techniques dating back thousands of years.
✔️ Traditional Villages & Local Handicrafts – Stroll through charming small villages and browse handmade Turkish carpets, ceramics, and souvenirs.

🚌 Evening: Overnight Bus to Istanbul
📍 9:00 PM – Board the overnight bus back to Istanbul.
✔️ Comfortable, air-conditioned bus journey
✔️ Relax & reflect on your incredible adventures through Turkey!
✔️ Wake up in Istanbul as your epic 18-day journey comes full circle.

🌙 Overnight: Bus to Istanbul
✨ One last magical night under the Turkish sky before returning to the bustling city! 🚍💫

Sights Visited

🏙️ Arrival in Istanbul & Farewell

📍 9:00 AM – Arrive in Istanbul
🌍 Your epic 18-day journey through Turkey has come full circle as you arrive back in Istanbul!
💼 Need assistance? If you require help with onward travel, extra accommodation, or additional tours, our team is here to support you.

🌟 End of Tour
🎉 Thank you for choosing Alaturca for your Turkish adventure! We hope you’ve had an unforgettable journey exploring Turkey’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural gems.

👋 Safe travels & see you again soon! 🚀✨