Classic Turkey & Gulet Cruise - 13 Days

Welcome to Istanbul! Make your own way to the hotel to check in. This evening, join us for a welcome meeting with your tour guide.

After breakfast, we embark on a fully guided tour of Istanbul, the unique city that straddles both Europe and Asia. Our itinerary takes in the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning architecture, the historic Hagia Sofia, the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, and the ancient Hippodrome, once a centre for sporting and social events in Byzantine times.

In the afternoon, you have the option to cruise along the Bosphorus, the waterway that divides the two continents. This 'Half Day Bosphorus Cruise' offers a unique perspective on the city’s skyline.

Istanbul - Gallipoli - Canakkale. Today, we explore the poignant WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, a site of immense historical significance. Our visit includes the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, and the original trenches and tunnels, providing a profound insight into this critical chapter of history. We stay overnight in Canakkale.

Canakkale - Troy - Behramkale - Selcuk. Depart from Canakkale for a visit to Troy, an ancient city recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we will explore the historical ruins and visit the acclaimed Troy Museum. Next, we journey to Behramkale, a charming village known for its stone houses and winding streets, which provide a glimpse into traditional Turkish life. You will have time to wander through the village, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps savour a cup of Turkish tea or coffee at a local café. Our day concludes with a drive south to Kuşadası. Overnight stay in Selçuk at a boutique hotel. Breakfast included.

Selcuk - Ephesus - Selcuk. Today, we delve into history with a guided tour of Ephesus, once a vibrant centre for trade and religion. Explore the remnants of this ancient city, from the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the grand Library of Celsus and its awe-inspiring amphitheatre. We will also visit the Ephesus Archaeology Museum, showcasing artefacts that vividly recount Ephesus's past.

Later, in a traditional carpet village, discover the intricate art of carpet weaving, an enduring Turkish craft. Here, we’ll learn about the hand-making process and the factors influencing a carpet's value. We then travel to Sirince for a wine-tasting experience before heading back to the hotel in Selcuk.

Selcuk - Fethiye. Today, we begin with a showcase of locally handcrafted leather goods, then make our way to Fethiye for your gulet cruise. Boarding takes place at Fethiye Harbour around 15:00. We will swim and snorkel in Turunc Bay or Tarzan Bay, providing an opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life. Our journey continues past various islands towards Tersane Island, also known as Dockyard Island, where you can explore the remnants of an old Greek town and a historically significant naval shipyard. Overnight on the gulet in a comfortable cabin.

After breakfast, we'll set off towards Hamam Bay, where you can swim amidst the ancient ruins of Roman Baths, said to have been built by Mark Antony as a gift for Cleopatra. Our next destination is Sarsala Bay, a stunning area fringed with pine trees. Here, you have the option to embark on a 45-minute hike to an ancient Lycian town, known for its 3rd-century BC inscribed walls. We then continue to Bedri Rahmi Bay, named after a renowned Turkish painter. Take a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters or explore the island at your leisure.

Today, we continue our cruise back towards Fethiye, passing by the charming Yassica and Göcek Islands. These mostly unnamed isles provide excellent anchorage and boast secluded sandy beaches - ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or simply basking in the sun while enjoying the stunning scenery. We'll pause for a final swim at Red Island before heading back to Fethiye. Spend a final night onboard.

Fethiye - Pamukkale. This morning, we explore Pamukkale’s striking white travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis. We’ll discover the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as we wander among the ruins. You have the opportunity to soak in the thermal springs, surrounded by ancient columns, once revered by the Romans for their therapeutic benefits. Tonight, we stay in Pamukkale.

Pamukkale - Konya. Today, we journey along the historic Silk Road, stopping at the Sultanhani Caravanserai, a former resting place for traders and their caravans, showcasing classic Seljuk architecture. In Konya, we visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the renowned Sufi mystic Rumi, before completing our journey to Cappadocia. This evening, you have the opportunity to experience a traditional Turkish folklore evening.

Today, we explore the enchanting lunar landscapes of Cappadocia. Our day begins at the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum, where you will witness fascinating rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes. We then admire the unique formations known as fairy chimneys - tall, thin spires that are iconic to the region. Next, we delve into history by descending through the various levels of an underground city, once a refuge for early Christians.

Cappadocia - Ankara - Istanbul. We depart early for Ankara, the nation's capital, to visit Anitkabir, the impressive mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. After exploring this significant historical site, we return to Istanbul for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, our tour concludes, and we bid farewell to our newfound friends. There is no transfer included, so make your own way to the airport.