Western Turkey Explorer: Culture & Blue Cruise Combo
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!
Route & Experience Plan
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.
What to Expect on This Experience
Arrival in Istanbul
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.
Old City & Bosphorus
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.
Gallipoli Tour
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.
Troy & Pergamon
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.
Ephesus & Transfer
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.
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.
Aquarium Bay & Kas
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.
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.
Turtles Bay, Myra & Smugglers Inn
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.
Aperlai Hike & Aquarium Bay
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.
Butterfly Valley & Kayakoy
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.
Samanlik Bay & 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
What’s Included and What’s Extra
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
Before You Book
Reviews from Travellers
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.