Western Turkey Explorer: Culture & Blue Cruise Combo
After arriving in Istanbul, our team will be there to welcome you at the airport. They will assist you with your transfer and ensure a smooth start to your journey in Turkey.
Experience a 12-day journey through Western Turkey, blending ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and an unforgettable 7-day, 6-night gulet cruise. Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, visit the historic sites of Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, and Ephesus, then head to Fethiye to embark on a week-long Mediterranean sailing adventure. Discover the stunning Blue Lagoon of Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, Kaş, the Sunken City of Kekova, and many hidden bays along the Turkish coast. Conclude your journey in Fethiye, filled with unforgettable memories of Turkey’s rich culture, history, and natural wonders. Book now for the ultimate Turkey experience!
General Information
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Start: Istanbul, TurkeyBegin your journey in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where East meets West in a blend of history and culture.
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Duration: 12 days, 11 nightsExplore Turkey’s historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, and stunning coastline on this unforgettable 12-day adventure.
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Departure Days: MondayThis tour operates on scheduled departures. Check availability for upcoming dates.
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MealsEnjoy daily breakfasts, select lunches, and dinners featuring authentic Turkish flavors and fresh local ingredients.
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Gulet CruiseExperience a 7-night Blue Cruise, sailing through turquoise waters, hidden coves, and charming coastal towns along the Turkish Riviera.
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AccommodationStay in carefully selected hotels and comfortable gulet cabins, offering both private and shared options.
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Finish: Fethiye, TurkeyThe tour concludes in Fethiye, allowing time for final explorations or onward travel plans.
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Wi-FiStay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi available in hotels, on the tour bus, and aboard the gulet.
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GuideExpert English-speaking guides provide deep insights into Turkey’s history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
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Tour BusTravel comfortably in a modern, air-conditioned coach with onboard Wi-Fi and spacious seating.
Western Turkey Explorer: Culture & Blue Cruise Combo
Starting Price: €1,794.00
Tour Route
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
Meet at the airport, check-in at hotel, evening stroll in Taksim and Istiklal.
Day 2: Old City & Bosphorus
Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and enjoy a Bosphorus cruise.
Day 3: Gallipoli Tour
Explore ANZAC landing sites, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, and battlefields.
Day 4: Troy & Pergamon
Discover Troy ruins, visit Pergamon’s Acropolis, travel to Ephesus region.
Day 5: Ephesus & Transfer
Explore Ephesus, Temple of Artemis, Celsus Library, then head to Fethiye.
Day 6: Blue Lagoon & St. Nicholas Island
Swim in the Blue Lagoon at Oludeniz, optional paragliding, sunset at St. Nicholas Island.
Day 7: Aquarium Bay & Kas
Swim at Aquarium Bay, optional scuba diving at Hidayet Bay, explore Kas nightlife.
Day 8: Sunken City & Simena Castle
Sail past the Sunken City, hike to Simena Castle, enjoy Burc Bay for swimming.
Day 9: Turtles Bay, Myra & Smugglers Inn
Swim with turtles, visit St. Nicholas Church and Myra, party at Smugglers Inn.
Day 10: Aperlai Hike & Aquarium Bay
Hike through ancient Aperlai ruins, swim at Heybeli Island, relax in Aquarium Bay.
Day 11: Butterfly Valley & Kayakoy
Breakfast at Butterfly Valley, explore Gemiler Beach, visit the abandoned Greek village of Kayakoy.
Day 12: Samanlik Bay & Return to Fethiye
Morning swim at Samanlik Bay, disembark in Fethiye, free time in the town.
Experience
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul & Taksim Night Out
Arrive in Istanbul and meet your guide at the airport before transferring to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax before joining the group for an evening exploration of Taksim Square and Istiklal Street. Ride one of the world’s oldest metro systems, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and head to Çiçek Pasajı, a historic passage filled with lively taverns. Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner featuring mezes, kebabs, and rakı, while immersing yourself in Istanbul’s buzzing nightlife.
Day 2: Istanbul’s Old City & Bosphorus Cruise
Start your day with a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich history. Visit Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar, where the aromas of exotic spices and the dazzling array of shops will mesmerize you. Later, embark on a Bosphorus cruise, gliding between Europe and Asia while admiring the stunning waterfront mansions and palaces.
Day 3: Gallipoli – A Journey Through History
Depart for Gallipoli, a site of incredible historical significance. Walk through the ANZAC landing beaches, Lone Pine Cemetery, Chunuk Bair, and preserved war trenches, where you’ll hear stories of courage and sacrifice from World War I.
Day 4: Troy & Pergamon – Legends & Ancient Marvels
Step into the mythical world of Troy, home to the legendary Trojan Horse and ruins dating back over 3,700 years. After soaking in this UNESCO-listed site, continue to Pergamon, once an influential Greek kingdom. Explore the Acropolis, the Library of Pergamon, and the stunning cliffside Hellenistic Theater before heading to Ephesus for the night.
Day 5: Ephesus – Ruins & Coastal Escape
Get lost in the wonders of Ephesus, one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world. Stand in awe before the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Artemis, and the grand theater. After an immersive historical experience, journey south to Fethiye, a lively seaside town with a laid-back Mediterranean vibe.
Day 6: Blue Lagoon & St. Nicholas Island
Your sailing adventure begins. Board a traditional Turkish gulet and set sail towards the famous Blue Lagoon of Ölüdeniz, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters or take an optional paragliding flight over the scenic coastline. As the sun sets, anchor near St. Nicholas Island, where you can explore ancient ruins and enjoy a breathtaking sunset.
Day 7: Hidden Bays & Kaş Exploration
Wake up to the gentle rocking of the boat and head to Aquarium Bay, a secluded paradise for swimming and snorkeling. Later, stop at Hidayet Bay, where an optional scuba diving session awaits for those looking to explore the deep blue. Arrive in Kaş by evening, a charming coastal town known for its laid-back bars, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife.
Day 8: Sunken City & Simena Castle
Sail towards the Sunken City of Kekova, an ancient Lycian settlement submerged due to an earthquake. While swimming is not allowed here, you can admire the ruins from the deck as your guide shares its fascinating history. Later, take a short hike up to Simena Castle, where panoramic views over the Mediterranean will leave you speechless.
Day 9: Turtle Bay & Myra’s Ancient Wonders
Swim in the turquoise waters of Turtle Bay, where sea turtles are often seen gliding beneath the surface. Continue to Demre, where you’ll visit St. Nicholas Church and the rock-cut tombs of Myra, an ancient Lycian city. End the night at Smugglers Inn, a remote beach bar where you can enjoy drinks under the stars.
Day 10: Ancient Ruins & Tranquil Waters
Hike through the ancient ruins of Aperlai, a long-lost Lycian city now overgrown with nature. Later, sail towards Heybeli Island, where you can swim and snorkel in peaceful, unspoiled waters. Spend the afternoon sunbathing at Aquarium Bay before anchoring for the night.
Day 11: Butterfly Valley & Kayaköy – Lost in Time
Start the day with a visit to Butterfly Valley, an idyllic canyon known for its waterfalls and rich biodiversity. After swimming in its turquoise waters, head inland to explore Kayaköy, an eerie yet fascinating abandoned Greek village frozen in time.
Day 12: Farewell Swim & Return to Fethiye
On your final morning, enjoy one last swim at Samanlik Bay, a serene cove just outside Fethiye. By noon, disembark at Fethiye Harbour, marking the end of an incredible journey filled with history, adventure, and unforgettable moments.
Highlights
- Explore the historical and cultural landmarks of Istanbul
- Visit the ANZAC Cove and Gallipoli battlefields
- Discover the ancient cities of Troy, Pergamon, and Ephesus
- Sail for 7 days on a gulet through the Mediterranean’s most stunning bays
- Swim in Blue Lagoon, Kas, and the Sunken City
- Experience nature at Saklikent Gorge, Butterfly Valley, and Salt Lake
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia
- Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned tour bus
- Enjoy 16 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 14 dinners
- Stay connected with Wi-Fi in hotels, on the bus, and aboard the gulet
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- Wheelchair users
- Children under 6 years
Includes
- Free Wi-Fi available on the tour bus, in hotels, and aboard the gulet
- Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach with onboard Wi-Fi
- A 7-night sailing experience along the stunning Turkish coastline
- Guided tours led by professional and experienced local guides
- Accommodation for 5 nights in hotels and 6 nights aboard a gulet
- Flexible rooming options: twin, double, triple, or shared cabin
- Solo travelers can either share a cabin or upgrade to private accommodation
Excludes
- 12-day compulsory Museum Card – 140 Euro
- Entrance fees for ancient sites and national parks
- Meals not included in the itinerary
- Drinks not included in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
Gulet Cruises
- Tour Guide
- Premium Gulet with AC (6 Hr / daily )
- Bar: No BYO (Water included)
- Paddle Boards, Snorkelling Gears
Optional Activities
- Turkish bath experience
- Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
- Paragliding over the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz
- Scuba diving in Kas
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do when I arrive in Istanbul?
Where does the journey begin and end?
This tour starts in Istanbul and ends in Fethiye.
What are the cabin arrangements like?
Couples are assigned their own private cabins. For solo travelers, cabin arrangements may vary, and you could be placed in a twin, double, triple, or quad cabin, depending on the group composition.
If you’re booking as a couple, please make sure to mention this in the notes section during your reservation.
Can I upgrade to a better cabin?
This trip includes accommodation in shared cabins. If available, you can upgrade to a private twin, double, or triple cabin with an ensuite bathroom.
Is it possible to change my departure date?
Yes, it is possible to change your departure date based on availability. A minor fee will be charged, and if the new date has a higher cost, you’ll need to cover the difference. Alternatively, you can transfer the amount you’ve already paid to another trip of equal or greater value, as long as it’s outside the notification period.
What type of boats are used for the sailing trips?
All of our boats are traditional gulet yachts, handcrafted in Southern Turkey. These two or three-masted sailing yachts are fully equipped with ensuite cabins, a professional kitchen, dining spaces, and deck mattresses for those who wish to sleep under the stars.
Will there be enough space for my luggage?
For your comfort and ease of movement inside the cabin, we suggest bringing a small or medium-sized suitcase or backpack.
Am I allowed to bring my own alcohol on board?
Boat licensing regulations prohibit bringing your own alcohol on board. However, reasonably priced drinks can be purchased on the boat using a tab system, which must be settled on the day of check-out.
What meals are included during the trip?
All of our gulet cruises include a traditional Turkish breakfast, a vegetarian lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner as part of the package.
Upon request, we can accommodate Jain, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, and Kosher dietary preferences.
You’re welcome to bring additional snacks for the trip. Drinks are available for purchase on board using a tab system, which is payable on the day of disembarkation.
Can I bring my own snacks and beverages on the boat?
Unfortunately, bringing your own drinks (including water) on board is not permitted. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks like peanuts, chips, cookies, and similar items.
Can I settle my bar bill using a credit card?
Bar Payments:
Please note that bar expenses must be paid in cash on the last day of the trip. Since ATMs may not be available at all ports, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. However, there’s no need to worry about withdrawing cash before the trip, as ATMs will be accessible in Kas Port town on the second day of the journey.
Are there power sockets available on the boat?
Some boats are equipped with power sockets in the cabins, while others have them only in the common salon area. These sockets are functional when the engine or generator is running.
Will towels be provided on board?
Beach Towels Not Provided:
Beach towels are not supplied on board, so we kindly ask guests to bring their own for beach use. Bath towels are available but are not intended for use at the beach. If needed, towels can be easily purchased from shops in towns across Turkey.
Are there any limits on air conditioning use?
Air Conditioning Usage:
Gulet boats have limited energy capacity, so air conditioning is typically used for 4-6 hours daily to conserve fuel and maintain efficiency. This also helps protect the generator and supports eco-friendly practices by encouraging natural ventilation. Running the generator overnight can be noisy and may disturb other guests, so finding a balance between comfort and sustainability is essential.
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