Legends & Wonders of the Aegean 8 Days
Istanbul • Canakkale •Ayvalık • Bergama • Kusadasi • Pamukkale
Price
€0
Overview
This carefully crafted itinerary takes you through Turkey’s most iconic sites, from Istanbul’s historic landmarks to the battlefields of Gallipoli and the legendary ruins of Troy. Explore the ancient cities of Assos, Pergamon, and Ephesus, visit charming coastal towns like Ayvalık and Şirince, and marvel at Pamukkale’s stunning white terraces. Combining history, culture, and natural beauty, this journey offers an unforgettable introduction to Turkey.
Highlights:
- Visit Gallipoli’s World War I battlefields and memorials
- Experience Assos, Behramkale, and Ayvalık, including the Olive Oil Museum
- Explore Pergamon with its Acropolis and ancient theatre
- Marvel at Pamukkale’s travertine terraces and Hierapolis ruins
Included/Excluded
- Arrival & departure transfers
- 7 Nights' Accommodation
- 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches
- Professional licensed tour guide throughout the tour
- Air-conditioned non-smoking vehicle
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- Meals as per itinerary
- V.A.T.
- Drinks with meals
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Travel insurance
- Any activity mentioned as optional
Tour Plan
Day 1 - Arrival
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you are welcomed by our team and transferred to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to rest or begin exploring the city independently.
*Please advise your flight arrival details, including which airport, at least 14 days prior to your departure.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: None
Day 2 – Istanbul's Old City
Start your adventure in the historic Hippodrome, a former chariot-racing arena that witnessed countless events in its storied past. Here, you'll discover the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column, both cherished remnants of Byzantine history. Stand in awe of the stunning Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its impressive domes, intricate tilework, and towering minarets create a truly mesmerizing sight that defines Istanbul's skyline.
Next, venture into the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia built in the 6th century, a masterpiece of architectural ingenuity and a symbol of Istanbul's enduring legacy. Marvel at its intricate mosaics, soaring dome, and the palpable sense of history within its walls. Then, descend into the subterranean world of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir.
Delve into the mysterious atmosphere as you stroll among the submerged columns and illuminated pathways, feeling as though you've stepped back in time. Conclude the day at the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered market of the world.
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 - Çanakkale, Gallipoli
After breakfast, drive to Gallipoli. Gallipoli is a historic peninsula known for its World War I battlefields, memorials, and cemeteries commemorating soldiers from around the world. Following a guided tour of Gallipoli, drive to Çanakkale for hotel check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Today's total driving distance is 300 km (approx. 4.5 hours).
Overnight: Çanakkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 – Troy, Assos, Ayvalik
Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a visit to the ancient city of Troy, famous for its legendary Trojan War and remarkable archaeological ruins. Explore the Troy Museum to see artifacts uncovered from the site. Continue to Assos and Ayvalık, including a visit to the Olive Oil Museum to learn about the region’s traditional olive oil production. Overnight stay in Ayvalık.
Today's total driving distance is 200 km (approx. 3 hours).
Overnight: Ayvalık
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 - Ancient City of Pergamon
Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a drive to Bergama (approx. 1.5 hours). Visit the ancient city of Pergamon (Rev. 2:12–17), one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, located in the modern town of Bergama. The area is rich in history, highlighted by the impressive Pergamon Acropolis with its ancient temples and theatres. The Pergamon Theatre, one of the steepest and best-preserved of the ancient world, offers breathtaking panoramic views.
After the Pergamon tour, drive to Kuşadası. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Today's total driving distance is 350 km (approx. 5 hours).
Overnight: Kusadasi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 - Ephesus, House of Virgin Mary & Şirince
Discover Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean, featuring the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and ancient streets. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred pilgrimage site, before continuing to Şirince, a picturesque village known for its traditional houses, artisan shops, and local wines.
Today's total driving distance is 100 km (approx. 1.5 hours).
Overnight: Selçuk
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7 - Pamukkale
Your day begins with a scenic 3-hour drive through the Turkish countryside to Pamukkale. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, a Greco-Roman settlement dating back to the 2nd century BC, with its well-preserved theatre, baths, temples, and necropolis. Continue to the famous Pamukkale travertines, known as the “Cotton Castle,” where mineral-rich thermal waters have created dazzling white terraces.
Today's total driving distance is 200 km (approx. 3 hours).
Overnight: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 – Departure
There are no activities planned for today. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight.
Overnight: None
Included Meals: Breakfast
