8-Day Tour Package: Discover Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Antalya from Istanbul by Bus
Embark on an unforgettable 8-Day Tour Package that takes you from Istanbul to the historical sites of Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, and the stunning landscapes of Pamukkale and Antalya. This comprehensive journey offers you a unique opportunity to explore Turkey's rich heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. Experience ancient ruins, relax in thermal pools, and discover the vibrant culture that makes Turkey a must-visit destination. Join us for this remarkable adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey! Upon your arrival at either Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, our friendly staff will be waiting to welcome you. They will assist you in transferring to your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free journey from the airport to your accommodation. After checking in at the hotel, you’ll have the remainder of the day free to explore at your own pace. Enjoy your first night in the vibrant city of Istanbul!
Day 2: Full Day Byzantine and Ottoman Relics Istanbul City Tour
- Hotel Pick-up (08:00 - 09:15): Your exciting day kicks off with a personalized pick-up from your hotel or designated location between 08:00 and 09:15. Our welcoming team ensures a smooth and comfortable start to your exploration.
- Hagia Sophia: Known as the Church of Divine Wisdom, this architectural marvel is a true masterpiece of grandeur and proportion. Cherished by both the Islamic East and Christian West, Hagia Sophia stands as one of humanity's most significant treasures.
- Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque): A visit to Istanbul is incomplete without experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Blue Mosque. Its stunning architecture leaves an unforgettable impression on every traveler.
- Hippodrome and Obelisk: Discover the expansive Hippodrome, or At Meydani, which served as the ancient center for chariot races and public gatherings, situated conveniently between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
- Grand Covered Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı): Explore the oldest and largest covered market in the world, located in the heart of the city. It’s a vibrant hub for shopping and experiencing local culture.
- Lunch: Take a break to enjoy a delicious meal, recharging for the afternoon ahead.
- Topkapi Palace: Dive into history at Topkapi Palace, the former main residence of the Sultan and his court. This historic site served as both the imperial residence and the seat of government. With its meticulously regulated access, the palace functioned as a city within a city, housing chambers for political discussions and royal audiences.
At 17:00 PM, your tour concludes, and you will be transferred back to your hotel, marking the end of a captivating day exploring the Byzantine and Ottoman heritage of Istanbul.
Day 3: Gallipoli Tour from Istanbul to Eceabat
Early Morning: Begin your day with a prompt pick-up from your hotel at 06:00 AM, setting the stage for a memorable adventure.
Morning to Noon: Embark on a scenic journey to Eceabat, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.
Afternoon: Arrive in Eceabat at 12:00 PM and savor a delightful lunch to refuel for the afternoon's explorations.
Afternoon to Evening: Dive into history as you join our expert English-speaking guide for a comprehensive Gallipoli day tour. Discover the poignant stories and significant sites from one of the most notable battles of World War I.
- Brighton Beach: A serene spot with historical significance.
- Beach Cemetery: Pay your respects at John Simpson’s Grave.
- ANZAC Cove: The landing site of ANZAC troops, rich in history.
- Ari Burnu: Explore the first ANZAC landing place.
- Lone Pine Cemetery: A moving memorial dedicated to Australian soldiers.
- Johnston’s Jolly: Walk through the ANZAC trenches, experiencing history firsthand.
- View of Shrapnel Valley: Admire the scenic beauty coupled with historical depth.
- Turkish Memorial: Reflect on the significance of this tribute.
- The Nek and Walker’s Ridge: Important battlegrounds of the campaign.
- Chunuk Bair: The main memorial honoring New Zealand troops.
Evening: After a day steeped in history, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Canakkale.
Overnight: Enjoy a restful overnight stay in Canakkale, reflecting on the poignant experiences of the day.
Day 4: Troy Tour and Pergamon Acropolis Tour - Overnight in Kusadasi
07:30 AM - 08:00 AM: Kick off your day with a buffet breakfast to energize yourself for the exciting adventures ahead.
08:00 AM - 08:45 AM: Enjoy a ferry transfer to Canakkale, taking in the beautiful scenery as you travel across the water.
08:45 AM - 10:30 AM: Embark on the Troy Tour, where you will explore the legendary city of Troy:
- The Trojan Horse: A captivating symbol of epic tales.
- Sacrificial Altars: Gain insights into the ancient rituals practiced by the Trojans.
- 3700-Year-Old City Walls: Silent witnesses that tell the story of centuries gone by.
- Houses of Troy I (3000 B.C. - 2500 B.C.): Discover daily life in one of the world's oldest cities.
- The Bouleuterion and The Odeon: Dive into the hubs of governance and culture that shaped the city.
- Remains of Troy I to IX: Experience a fascinating journey through layers of history.
10:30 AM: The Troy tour concludes, and you will depart for Bergama.
13:30 PM: Enjoy a delightful lunch in Bergama, preparing you for the next leg of your adventure.
13:30 PM - 15:30 PM: Begin your Pergamon Acropolis Tour:
- The Acropolis: Revel in majestic views and the rich historical significance of this ancient site.
- The Library: Once housing 200,000 scrolls, this was a center of knowledge and wisdom.
- Temple of Athena, Temple of Trajan, Altar of Zeus: Admire the remnants of ancient Greek architecture and mythology, with the Altar now residing in the Berlin Museum.
- The Gymnasium and Lower Agora: Explore insights into the daily lives of the ancients.
- The Hellenistic Theater: With a capacity for 10,000 spectators, this theater reflects the cultural vibrancy of the era.
17:30 PM: As the tour concludes, you will depart for Selcuk or Kusadasi, arriving in Selcuk at 20:30 PM and in Kusadasi at 21:30 PM.
Day 5: Full Day Ephesus Tour - Overnight in Kusadasi
After a delicious breakfast, you'll meet your knowledgeable tour guide and embark on an incredible journey to the ancient city of Ephesus.
- Temple of Artemis: Begin your exploration at the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Learn about the ancient cult dedicated to Artemis, which made Ephesus a significant pilgrimage site in antiquity.
- The Ruins of Ephesus: Delve into the grandeur of Ephesus as you wander through its remarkable ruins. Marvel at the concert hall, vibrant marketplaces, colonnaded streets, sacred temples, stunning fountains, historic libraries, grand theaters, and the enchanting Arcadian Way.
- Lunch: Enjoy a delightful break for lunch, recharging your energy for the rest of the day's explorations.
- The House of Virgin Mary: Conclude your tour with a visit to the House of Virgin Mary, a site of profound religious significance. This is believed to be where the Virgin Mary resided during her time in Ephesus, with its location revealed through the visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich.
As the day winds down, you'll be transferred back to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay in Kusadasi, giving you time to reflect on the wonders and rich history of Ephesus.
Day 6: Pamukkale Hierapolis Ancient City Tour, Bus to Antalya - Overnight in Antalya
As the sun rises, a new adventure awaits! After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll be picked up and introduced to your friendly tour guide for the day. Together, you'll set off for Pamukkale, where you will delve into the wonders of the ancient city of Hierapolis. Here's what your exciting day has in store:
- Unique White Calcium Waterfall: Your adventure begins with a visit to the breathtaking white calcium waterfall. This natural wonder is a captivating sight, with its striking white terraces creating a stunning contrast against the lush landscape—perfect for memorable photos.
- Lunch Break: Recharge with a delicious lunch, providing you with the energy needed for the rest of your explorations.
- Hierapolis: Next, you’ll step into the ancient health spa of Hierapolis. This city is home to the largest necropolis in Asia Minor, an awe-inspiring testament to its rich history. As you wander through the impressive ruins, you'll also have the chance to visit a magnificent ancient theater that echoes stories of the past.
As your captivating tour concludes, you’ll be transferred to the bus station, where you’ll embark on a comfortable journey to Antalya. Upon your arrival in Antalya, you'll be taken to your hotel for the night, giving you time to relive the day’s adventures and anticipate what tomorrow holds.
Note: The entrance fee for the Cleopatra Pool is not included in the Pamukkale tour. Guests who wish to swim in the pool can pay the entrance fee separately.
Day 7: Antalya Old City and Waterfall Tour - Overnight in Antalya
Your seventh day in Turkey kicks off with another thrilling adventure! After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, we’ll pick you up around 09:30 AM. Here’s what the day has in store:
- 09:00 AM - Pickup from Hotel: Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation, ensuring a smooth transition into your exciting itinerary.
- 09:30 AM - Düden Waterfall: Your first stop is the magnificent Düden Waterfall, located just 12 km northeast of Antalya. This stunning waterfall marks the point where the Düden River emerges after flowing underground for 9 km. Enjoy the lush greenery surrounding the waterfall and capture memorable photos.
- 11:00 AM - Lower Düden Waterfall (Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall): Next, proceed to the Lower Düden Waterfall, also known as Karpuzkaldiran Waterfall. Here, the water cascades directly into the Mediterranean Sea, offering one of the most unique and picturesque views.
- 12:30 PM - Lunch Break: Take a moment to relax and enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Turkish cuisine.
- 2:00 PM - Old City (Kaleiçi): After lunch, dive into the historic charm of Kaleiçi, Antalya's Old City. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets, admiring the captivating blend of ancient and modern architecture. Key sights include:
- Hidirlik Tower: An ancient Roman tower that provides stunning views of the harbor.
- Hadrian’s Gate: A triumphal arch built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
- Clock Tower: A prominent feature of the old city walls, offering commanding views of the area.
- 3:30 PM - Free Time in Old City: Enjoy some free time to shop for souvenirs, savor a coffee at one of the quaint cafes, or simply explore the charming streets and alleys at your own pace.
- 5:00 PM - Boat Trip at Antalya Harbour: Conclude your day with a relaxing boat trip from the harbor. Take in breathtaking views of the Taurus Mountains, the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, and the stunning coastline as you glide along the coast.
- 7:00 PM - Return to Hotel: After a day brimming with exploration and adventure, return to your hotel for a restful night.
As the sun sets over Antalya, take this time to reflect on the incredible memories you’ve made and get ready for the exciting adventures that await you!
Day 8: Free Day and Airport Transfer to Finalize Your Trip
Your thrilling 8-day journey through Turkey is drawing to a close. On this final day, you'll have some free time to unwind and make the most of your last moments in this enchanting country. Here’s what you can expect:
- Free Day: After indulging in a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you’ll have the entire day to enjoy at your leisure. Whether you wish to explore more of Antalya, indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relax at your hotel, the choice is yours.
- Airport Transfer: As your departure time nears, we will arrange for your transfer to Antalya Airport. Our dedicated team will ensure that you reach the airport smoothly and on time, making it easy for you to catch your onward flight.
With the memories of your incredible journey still vivid in your mind and your heart filled with the beauty and experiences of Turkey, you’ll board your flight with a deep appreciation for the adventures you’ve had.
We hope your 8-Day Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Pamukkale, and Antalya Tour Package from Istanbul by Bus has exceeded your expectations. As you take off and soar into the sky, carry with you the culture, history, and warmth of Turkey. We wish you a pleasant flight and look forward to welcoming you back to this extraordinary land in the future. Safe travels!
What's Included in the Tour
- Private Transportation: Airport to Hotel and Hotel to Airport transfers.
- Accommodation: 2 Nights in Istanbul with breakfast.
- Accommodation: 1 Night in Canakkale with breakfast.
- Accommodation: 2 Nights in Kusadasi with breakfast.
- Accommodation: 2 Nights in Antalya with breakfast.
- Istanbul City Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, and lunch.
- Gallipoli Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, and lunch.
- Troy and Pergamon Tour: Includes transportation and guidance.
- Ephesus Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
- Pamukkale Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, lunch, and museum tickets.
- Antalya Tour: Includes transportation, guidance, lunch, and a boat trip.
What's Not Included in the Tour
- International Flights to Turkey: The package does not include international flights. Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Turkey.
- Personal Travel Insurance: It is recommended to secure personal travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
- Visa for Turkey: Travelers must obtain the necessary visa to enter Turkey. Ensure you have all required travel documents well in advance. Check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country for visa requirements.
- Personal Expenses: Budget separately for personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities or excursions not included in the itinerary.
- Museums: Entrance fees to some museums are not included. Tickets for Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia can be purchased through us to avoid long queues.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Details
Your journey begins and ends at either Istanbul International Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, providing convenient access to your starting point and departure location.