Highlights in Istanbul

Hagia Sofia

Part of Istanbul’s UNESCO World Heritage skyline, Hagia Sofia (Ayasofya) is not only a stunning building, but also provides a unique insight into the city’s Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history.  Built by Justinian I as a church it was converted to a Mosque under Ottoman rule.  In 1935, Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, decreed that it should be a museum. The immense size of the building and it’s vast dome are breath-taking and it’s adorned throughout with stunning frescoes and mosaics.

Blue Mosque

Officially called the Sultanahmet Mosque, the Blue Mosque got it’s nickname due to interior, which is clad in thousands of blue Iznik tiles, matched only by some spectacular stained glass.  The exterior of the building is no less impressive.  Built in the 1600s, it was the first Mosque with six minarets and the numerous domes seem to cascade down into green gardens that surround it.

Topkapı Palace

Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for most of their 600- year reign.  The vast complex is perched overlooking the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. Stroll through beautifully landscaped courtyards and see some of the fortunes amassed by the Ottomans during their reign, as well as arms and traditional dress.

Bosphorus Tour

The strait that splits Istanbul between Europe and Asia has always been of great strategic and commercial importance.  Running from the Black Sea in the north to the Sea of Marmara, Istanbul grew on the shores of the Bosphorus and it’s an integral part of the city’s history.  A boat tour the Bosphorus is not only a lovely way to spend a sunny afternoon, but gives you insight into how the city has been shaped by the waters that surround it.  We also offer private boat tours.

Beyoğlu

This district north of the Golden Horn has been inhabited for thousands of years, but the history here mixes with the modern bustling metropolis.  The 14th century Galata Tower is just a stone’s throw from Cicek Passage, home to many fish and meze restaurants popular with for a night out in Turkey. This area is also a cultural and artistic hub, with the wonderful Pera Museum and SALT, as well as numerous other art galleries and museums.

Highlights in Ephesus

The Ancient City of Ephesus

An ancient Greek city, Ephesus, is located in the South of Symrna (present-day Izmir). It dates back to 10th century BC. Despite this ancient beginning it’s remarkably well preserved, second only to Pompeii. The city was famed for the Temple of Artemis (completed around 550 BC), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was also an important centre for Early Christianity. Today, Ephesus is one 0f the most sought after archaeological wonders of the world.

Temple of Artemis

The Temple of Artemis or Artemision, was a Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis and is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The temple was destructed and rebuilt a number of times throughout its long history. Today only the ruins of the foundation of this amazing construction of the Hellenistic Age can be seen.

House of The Virgin Mary

This Catholic and Muslim shrine, located on Mount Koressos (Bulbul Dagi) is an important religious site. Catholic pilgrims visit the house based on the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken to this stone house by Saint John and lived there until her Assumption (according to Catholic doctrine) or Dormition (according to Orthodox belief).

Sirince Village

This pretty village, 12 km away from Ephesus, was once called Cirkince (ugly). Its habitants gave this name to the village on purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village. Over the years, visitors came to understand that the village was far from being ugly and, on the contrary, was very beautiful, so re-named it Sirince (pretty). This charming little village has managed to preserve its authenticity. Its unique architecture, tasty wine, olive oil, handicrafts and serene lifestyle makes it a must-see place if you’re visiting Ephesus.

Pergamon

This magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits on top of a hill in a town called Bergama, two hours north of Ephesus. The acropolis of Pergamon was the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty, a major centre of learning in the ancient era. Monumental temples, theatres, gymnasium, stoa or porticoes, altar and library were set into the sloping terrain surrounded by an extensive city wall. Pergamon is cited as one of the seven churches of Asia in the Book of Revelation. The Sanctuary of Asclepius and Serapis Temple (today known as Red Basilica) are the other notable structures of Pergamon.

Pamukkale

A short drive away from Selcuk, Pamukkale translated into ‘cotton castle’. Hot springs and travertines, terraces of carbonate minerals left by the flowing water, create and extraordinary landscape. Tourists visit Pamukkale and Hierapolis not only for its extraordinary visats and its ancient history but also for wellness.

Izmir

Izmir is the third biggest city of Turkey after Istanbul and Ankara. The ancient city of Smyrna, the Agora of Smyrna and the Izmir Archaeology Museum are some of the highlights of a trip here. A walk by the sea in Konak and a meal at one of the nice sea-view restaurants allow you to soak up the atmosphere of this great city.

Gallipoli

One of the major World War I sites. The Cannakale Martyrs Memorial (near Cape Helles); The British Memorial at Cape Helles; Anzac Cove; Lone Pine Australian Memorial; New Zealand Monument, Chunuk Bair; Ataturk Statue, Chunuk Bair are the must see places.

Other Things to Do / See

In Istanbul

Basilica Cistern - A 6th century underground cistern near Topkapi Palace.
Grand Bazaar - It’s chaotic but that’s part of the fun.  Don’t forget to haggle!
Spice Bazaar - Smaller but often busier than the Grand Bazaar, this is the place to get your spices and teas.  
Kariye Museum - A Byzantine church with some remarkably well-preserved mosaics.
Gastronomy Tour - Discover the full range of Turkish cuisine and some of the culinary highlights of the city.
Crossing the Bosphorus - Take a boat across the Bosphorus at sunset to get the best view of the Istanbul skyline.
Kadikoy - Istanbul’s alternative neighbourhood is home to some great restaurants.
Princes’ Islands - Stroll or cycle round green and peaceful islands, just a short boat ride from Istanbul.
Sile - The Black Sea coast of Istanbul shows a different face of the city. 
Pierre Loti - A hilltop with a view down the Golden Horn, favoured by and named after the French writer.
Istanbul Modern - This fantastic art gallery display modern and contemporary Turkish art. One of the city’s best.
Golden Horn - Experience the hustle and bustle of the ports of Karakoy and Eminonu.
Turkish Cooking Classes - Learn how to cook amazing Turkish food.

In Ephesus and Surroundings

Basilica of St. John - The believed burial site of John the Apostle constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century. It’s located in Selcuk near Ephesus.
Ephesus Archaeology Museum - It houses finds from the nearby Ephesus excavation site. Its best-known exhibit is the statue of Artemis retrieved from the temple of the goddess in Ephesus.
Isa Bey Mosque - One of the oldest mosques remaining from the Anatolian Principalities (Beyliks).
Grotto of Seven Sleepers - Inscriptions dedicated to the Seven Sleepers were found on the walls of the church.
Hellenistic City Wall -A well preserved section of the wall can be seen on the way to the House of Mother Mary.
Aphrodisias - The name of the city is derived from the goddess of love, Aphrodite, who has her famous sanctuary here.

In this 7 nights, 8 days tour you will get a chance to discover the essential sites of Istanbul and Ephesus.

Daily Highlights

Day 1

A boat tour of the gorgeous Bosphorus.

Day 2

Discover the Old Town and see Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar and the Basilica Cistern.

Day 3

Discover new Istanbul with a visit to Istanbul Modern and a night experience in Beyoglu, Taksim.

Day 4

Transfer to Selcuk. Settle in your hotel and discover this charming town.

Day 5

A fully loaded Ephesus tour including the ancient city of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis.

Day 6

A visit to the Sirince Village to discover the serene village life in this part of Turkey.

Day 7

A day trip to either Pergamon or Pamukkale.

Day 8

Transfer to airport.

Hotels, Transfers and Guides

You will be staying at some of the highest rated hotels of Istanbul and Selcuk.

Private transfers will be arranged and expert guides will be assisting you in every step of your tour.

Prices

All of our tours are tailor-made so prices will depend on your preferences. Please ask.

You can combine this tour with another tour. See the multi-centre tours tab for more details.

This is a very comprehensive Western Turkey tour. From the amazing Istanbul and Gallipoli to stunning ancient sites of Pergamon and Ephesus; it is fully loaded.

Daily Highlights

Day 1

A boat tour of the gorgeous Bosphorus.

Day 2

Discover the Old Town Part I: visit the magnificent Hagia Sofia and Blue Mosque.

Day 3

Discover new Istanbul with a visit to Istanbul Modern and a night experience in Beyoglu, Taksim.

Day 4

A relaxing day in the stunning Princes’ Islands with a view over the water to Istanbul.

Day 5

Discover the Old Town Part II: visit Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar.

Day 6

Transfer to Gallipoli, a major World War I site.

Day 7

Transfer to Pergamon, a magnificent ancient city built on top of a hill.

Transfer to Selcuk in the evening.

Day 8

A fully loaded Ephesus tour including the ancient city of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis.

Day 9

Selcuk town tour with visits to St. John Basilica and Isa Bey Mosque.

A visit to the Sirince Village to discover the serene village life in this part of Turkey.

Day 10

A visit to ancient Aphrodisias and extraordinary Pamukkale.

Day 11

Transfer to airport.

Hotels, Transfers and Guides

You will be staying at some of the highest rated hotels of Istanbul and Selcuk.

Private transfers will be arranged and expert guides will be assisting you in every step of your tour .

Prices

All of our tours are tailor-made so prices will depend on your preferences. Please ask.

You can combine this tour with another tour. See the multi-centre tours tab for more details.

Why not combine this tour with another one of our tours to get a proper Turkey experience?

ISTANBUL, CAPPADOCIA & EPHESUS

GULET CRUISE & TOUR

Best Time to Visit - All locations visited in this tour are fairly hot in summer months and pleasant in spring and autumn. April to June and September to the end of November would be good months to do this tour.

What to Pack -  Summer months are hot so light clothing is recommended. There may be odd showers outside so make sure you bring an umbrella or a raincoat. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be doing a good amount of walking when visiting sites.