Turkey Historical and Archaeological Tour

Dated back to 2,000BC, Turkey having a huge number of historical relics no doubt is a paradise for archaeology and history enthusiasts. This tour will take you to a famous battlefield in modern history and some of the most important archaeological sites that witnessed the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations.

Welcome to Istanbul! On arrival, meet your tour guide at the airport and then take the private transfer to your downtown hotel.

Set out on a captivating walking tour through Istanbul's storied Old City. Begin at the Suleymaniye Mosque, a hilltop masterpiece of Ottoman architecture offering sweeping views over the Golden Horn. Then stroll downhill to the bustling Grand Bazaar, where centuries of commerce echo through its vaulted halls filled with spices, carpets, and handicrafts.

Continue to the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir supported by rows of illuminated columns. From there, make your way to the iconic Hagia Sophia, where layers of Byzantine and Ottoman history converge beneath soaring domes.

End your day at the nearby Topkapi Palace, once the lavish residence of Ottoman sultans, where jeweled treasures, sacred relics, and serene courtyards tell tales of imperial grandeur. This thoughtfully paced route invites you to experience the very heart of Istanbul - on foot and in full.

This morning, fly to Izmir, the gateway to Turkey's western Aegean coast. Upon arrival, drive to the resort town of Kusadasi, a convenient base for exploring the ancient wonders of the region. The remainder of the day is at leisure - relax by the sea or take a sunset stroll along the harbor.

Step back into the grandeur of the Roman Empire at Ephesus, one of the largest and best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Walk down the Arcadian Way, once traveled by emperors, and admire the majestic Celsus Library, with its two-story façade and elegant Corinthian columns. Visit the Great Theatre, a 25,000-seat amphitheater that once hosted plays and political speeches. Then explore the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site said to be her final home.

Continue to the Basilica of St. John, built over the apostle's believed burial site, and stop by the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. After the tour, drive back to Kusadasi.

Discover the legacy of ancient Ionia on a full-day tour to three historically rich ruins.

Begin at Priene, a compact yet finely planned Hellenistic city known for its grid layout and hilltop views. Then continue to Miletus, once a powerful maritime city and home to the famed philosopher Thales. Explore its vast Roman theatre and bath complex.

End the day at Didyma, site of the colossal Temple of Apollo, famed in antiquity for its oracle second only to Delphi. Its towering columns and unfinished grandeur make it one of the most striking sacred sites on the coast.

Travel inland through the scenic Aegean hills with stops at two lesser-known yet extraordinary archaeological treasures. Explore Nyssa, a Hellenistic city featuring a well-preserved theatre and stadium, nestled in a lush valley. Then visit Aphrodisias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkey. Admire the remarkably intact Temple of Aphrodite, the grand Stadium - one of the best-preserved in the Roman world - and exquisite sculptures in the Aphrodisias Museum. Continue to Pamukkale for an overnight stay.

Begin the day at the surreal travertine terraces of Pamukkale, where mineral-rich waters have created gleaming white cascades resembling a cotton castle. Above the terraces lies Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city with a vast necropolis, a well-preserved theatre, and a sacred pool still fed by warm springs. Wander through its ancient streets and imagine the thousands who came here seeking healing. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul.

Your journey through Turkey's ancient wonders and natural beauty comes to an end today. At the appropriate time, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your international departure.