12 Days Istanbul Gallıpolı Troy Ephesus Pamukkale Bodrum By Bus

12-Day Best of Turkey Tour

Istanbul • Gallipoli • Troy • Ephesus • Pamukkale • Bodrum • Dalyan

Tour Overview

Experience the very best of Turkey on this unforgettable 12-day escorted journey, combining legendary ancient cities, breathtaking natural wonders, beautiful coastlines, and vibrant modern culture. From the timeless monuments of Istanbul to the heroic battlefields of Gallipoli, the mythical ruins of Troy, the grandeur of Ephesus, the white terraces of Pamukkale, and the turquoise waters of Bodrum, this tour offers a perfect balance of history, relaxation, and authentic local experiences.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul

Meet at Istanbul Airport and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is free to explore this magnificent city at your own pace.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 2 – Istanbul City Tour (Breakfast Included)

Depart at 09:00 for a guided tour of Istanbul’s historic heart.

• Hippodrome of Constantinople – Once the center of Byzantine social life

• Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Imperial Mosque) – Famous for its exquisite blue Iznik tiles

• Hagia Sophia – One of the world’s greatest architectural masterpieces

After the tour, you may optionally join a Bosphorus Boat Cruise, enjoying spectacular views as you sail between Europe and Asia.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 3 – Gallipoli Battlefields Tour (Breakfast Included)

Early departure (06:30) for Gallipoli. Begin a fully guided tour visiting:

• ANZAC Cove

• Lone Pine Australian Memorial

• Johnston’s Jolly

• The Nek

• Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial

• Kabatepe Museum

Lunch during the tour. Late afternoon arrival in Çanakkale.
Overnight: Canakkale

Day 4 – Troy Tour & Drive to Kusadasi (Breakfast Included)

Depart at 08:45 to explore the legendary Ancient City of Troy, home of the Trojan Horse and Helen of Troy. Learn about the nine archaeological layers dating back to 3500 BC.
After the tour, continue south to Kusadasi.
Overnight: Kusadasi / Selçuk

Day 5 – Ephesus Tour (Breakfast & Lunch Included)

Visit one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities:

• Library of Celsus

• Great Theatre

• Agora, Odeon, Roman Baths

• Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders)

Continue to the House of the Virgin Mary, a major pilgrimage site. Visit a traditional carpet-weaving center.
Optional Turkish Bath experience in the evening.
Overnight: Kusadasi

Day 6 – Pamukkale & Hierapolis (Breakfast & Lunch Included)

Depart at 08:30 for Pamukkale. En route, visit a local leather production center.
Explore:

• Pamukkale Travertines (Cotton Castle)

• Ancient City of Hierapolis

• Option to bathe in natural thermal waters

Overnight: Pamukkale

Day 7 – Pamukkale to Bodrum (Breakfast Included)

Travel to Bodrum, one of Turkey’s most popular coastal destinations. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the marina, beaches, markets, and vibrant streets.
Overnight: Bodrum

Day 8 – Bodrum Picnic Boat Trip (Breakfast & Lunch Included)

A relaxing day cruising Bodrum’s turquoise bays:

• Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters

• Visit Black Island and its mineral grotto

• Lunch served on board

Return to Bodrum around 17:00.
Overnight: Bodrum

Day 9 – Dalyan & Caunos Tour (Breakfast & Dinner Included)

Travel to Dalyan and enjoy a scenic river boat trip to Iztuzu Beach, a protected nesting area for Caretta Caretta sea turtles.
Visit the ancient city of Caunos, famous for its spectacular rock-cut tombs carved into cliffs.
Overnight: Bodrum

Day 10 – Bodrum Free Day & Evening Bus to Istanbul (Breakfast Included)

Enjoy a relaxed day at leisure in Bodrum. Optional activities include scuba diving, fishing tours, aqua parks, or beach time.
Evening overnight bus to Istanbul.

Day 11 – Arrival in Istanbul / Free Day

Morning arrival in Istanbul. Transfer to Sultanahmet by your own arrangement.
Free day to explore the Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, Taksim Square, cafes, nightlife, and cultural venues.
Overnight: Istanbul

Day 12 – Departure from Istanbul (Breakfast Included)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel. End of tour services.

What’s Included

• Airport transfers in Istanbul

• Accommodation with breakfast

• Fully guided city tours in Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus & Pamukkale

• Bodrum picnic boat cruise

• Dalyan & Caunos tour

• All entrance fees mentioned

• Transportation by air-conditioned, non-smoking coaches

• Professional English-speaking guides

Not Included

• Drinks

• Tips for guide and driver

• Personal expenses

• Optional tours and activities