8 Day Turkey Tour – Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia
Overview
Discover the rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Turkey with our 8-day tour package. This carefully crafted itinerary covers the most iconic and historical sites, including:
Istanbul – the city that bridges Europe and Asia
Gallipoli – the WWI battlefield and memorial site
Troy – the legendary ancient city
Pergamon – home to ancient healing and culture
Ephesus – one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world
Pamukkale – stunning white travertine terraces and thermal waters
Cappadocia – fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides
This 7-night, 8-day Turkey tour includes accommodation, domestic transportation, professional English-speaking guides, entrance fees, and selected meals.
Whether you're a history lover, cultural explorer, or nature enthusiast, this package offers an unforgettable experience.
Book online now or contact us to customize your perfect Turkey itinerary.
8-Day Turkey Tour Itinerary: Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Cappadocia
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul – Transfer to Hotel
(No Meals Included)
Welcome to Turkey! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (International or Domestic), you will be greeted by our staff holding a sign with your name at the exit of the passport control area. After meeting, you will be transferred to your hotel. Check-in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul – Full-Day Byzantine & Ottoman Heritage Tour
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at your hotel, followed by a full-day guided walking tour of Istanbul’s historic Old City (Sultanahmet) — where centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage come to life.
08:00 - 08:30 AM – Hotel Pickup:
You will be picked up from your centrally located hotel and transferred to the tour meeting point with your licensed English-speaking guide.
Discover Istanbul’s Top Historical Attractions
09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya):
A marvel of architecture blending Christian and Islamic heritage, this former basilica and mosque is now a mosque and one of the most visited landmarks in Turkey.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii):
Famous for its stunning blue İznik tiles and six minarets, this mosque is an active place of worship and a highlight of Ottoman architecture.
Topkapi Palace:
The former residence of Ottoman sultans, this vast palace complex houses imperial treasures, holy relics, and lush gardens overlooking the Bosphorus.
Hippodrome of Constantinople:
Once the heart of social and sporting life during the Byzantine era, here you’ll see the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and the German Fountain.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı):
One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, featuring over 4,000 shops selling carpets, jewelry, spices, souvenirs, and more.
Lunch Included:
Enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch at a local restaurant during the tour.
05:00 PM – Return to Hotel:
After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 3: Journey from Istanbul to Gallipoli – Guided Battlefield Tour
(Lunch Included)
Embark on a moving journey through history as you travel from Istanbul to the Gallipoli Peninsula, the site of one of World War I’s most significant campaigns. This full-day tour honors the memory of soldiers from both sides of the conflict and provides deep insight into the events of 1915.
06:30 – 07:00 AM – Hotel Departure:
Early morning pick-up from your Istanbul hotel. Enjoy a scenic 5-hour drive through the Thracian countryside en route to Eceabat, located at the entrance to the Dardanelles Strait.
12:00 PM – Lunch in Eceabat:
Arrive in Eceabat and enjoy a traditional lunch before beginning your battlefield tour.
Gallipoli Battlefield Tour Highlights
12:30 PM – 05:00 PM
Brighton Beach:
The original landing site for ANZAC troops during the campaign.
ANZAC Cove:
A peaceful cove where Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers landed on April 25, 1915.
Lone Pine Cemetery and Memorial:
Dedicated to Australian soldiers who lost their lives during the Gallipoli Campaign.
Chunuk Bair:
A significant New Zealand memorial site commemorating fallen Kiwi troops.
Turkish 57th Infantry Regiment Cemetery:
Honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Turkish soldiers during the campaign.
Johnston’s Jolly (Turkish and Allied trenches):
Explore well-preserved trenches from both sides of the conflict.
Ariburnu Cemetery:
A resting place for many soldiers who perished in the first days of the landings.
Respect to Mehmetçik Statue:
A heartfelt tribute to Turkish soldiers and their compassion toward enemy wounded.
05:00 PM – End of Tour & Transfer:
Transfer to your hotel in Çanakkale.
Overnight stay in Çanakkale.
Day 4: Troy & Pergamon Ancient City Tour – Transfer to Kusadasi
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
Continue your cultural journey by visiting two legendary ancient cities — Troy and Pergamon. This day blends mythology, archaeology, and ancient architecture as you travel from Çanakkale to Kuşadası.
08:30 AM – Departure from Çanakkale Hotel
Visit Troy Ancient City
Step into Homer’s epic tales as you explore the ruins of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 4,000 years of history.
Troy Highlights:
Wooden Trojan Horse Replica: Symbolizing the legendary Greek stratagem from the Iliad.
City Walls of Troy VI–VII: Ancient fortifications that defended the city during the Trojan War era.
Temple of Athena: Dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and war.
Scaean Gate: The main gate referenced in Homer’s Iliad, believed to be the entry point of the Trojan Horse.
Odeon, Agora, Bouleuterion: Public and social structures reflecting civic life.
Drive to Pergamon (Bergama)
Enjoy a scenic ride southward to Pergamon, once a major cultural and political center of the Hellenistic world.
Explore Pergamon Acropolis – Ancient Greek Marvel
Located on a dramatic hilltop, Pergamon offers panoramic views and one of the steepest classical theaters.
Pergamon Highlights:
Acropolis of Pergamon: Upper city housing royal palaces and temples.
Library of Pergamon: Once second only to Alexandria’s library.
Temple of Trajan: Dedicated to Emperor Trajan and Zeus.
Altar of Zeus (Remains): Exhibited in Berlin’s Pergamon Museum.
Theater, Agora, and Gymnasium: Showcasing ancient architectural and public life.
19:00 – 20:00 PM – Evening Transfer to Kuşadası
Relax as you are driven to Kusadasi, base for exploring Ephesus.
Overnight stay in Kuşadası.
Day 5: Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tour from Kusadasi
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
Embark on a full-day excursion to Pamukkale, a natural wonder and UNESCO site. Discover Hierapolis ruins and walk on the surreal white travertine terraces.
11:30 AM – Departure from Kusadasi
Scenic 3-hour drive to Pamukkale.
Explore Hierapolis Ancient City
Founded in 2nd century BC, Hierapolis was a healing center under Roman rule.
Highlights:
Necropolis: One of Anatolia’s largest ancient cemeteries with 1,200+ tombs.
Roman Bath & Basilica: Restored thermal and religious sites.
Agora: Ancient marketplace.
Theater: Massive Roman theater for 12,000+ spectators.
Temple of Apollo: Sanctuary of light and healing god.
Plutonium: Ancient ritual cave called the “Gate to the Underworld.”
Walk on the Calcium Travertines (Cotton Castle)
Mineral-rich thermal waters created the stunning white terraces.
Thermal Pools: Dip your feet in warm, healing waters.
Photography Spot: Iconic views of white cliffs and turquoise pools.
Cleopatra's Antique Pool (Optional): Swim among submerged ancient columns (extra fee).
16:00 PM – Return to Kusadasi
Relaxed return after a fulfilling day.
Overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Day 6: Ephesus Ancient City & Virgin Mary House Tour – Flight to Cappadocia
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
Visit Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities, then fly to Cappadocia.
08:00 AM – Transfer to Ephesus
Ephesus Tour Highlights
Celsus Library: Iconic Roman two-story facade and learning center.
Temple of Artemis: Remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
House of Virgin Mary: Christian pilgrimage site where Virgin Mary spent final years.
Isa Bey Mosque: 14th-century Seljuk architecture near Ephesus ruins.
Şirince Village: Charming hillside village with historic houses and local wines.
16:30 PM – Transfer to Izmir Airport
18:00 PM – Flight to Cappadocia
19:30 PM – Arrival & Hotel Transfer
Overnight stay in Cappadocia.
Day 7: North Cappadocia Tour – Flight Back to Istanbul
(Breakfast & Lunch Included)
Explore the surreal landscapes and ancient sites of Cappadocia.
09:30 AM – Tour Start
North Cappadocia Highlights
Pasabag Valley (Monks Valley): Famous fairy chimneys with mushroom-shaped formations.
Avanos Pottery Town: Pottery demonstrations and local crafts on Kızılırmak River.
Goreme Open-Air Museum: Rock-cut churches with 10th-century frescoes.
Uchisar Castle: Highest natural rock formation offering panoramic views.
16:00 PM – Airport Transfer
18:00 – 19:30 PM – Flight to Istanbul
Transfer to hotel
Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Day 8: Departure from Istanbul – Free Morning & Airport Transfer
(Breakfast Included)
Enjoy your final morning at leisure for shopping or sightseeing before transfer to Istanbul Airport for your departure flight.
Booking Information
Book your 8-day Turkey tour online today or get in touch for a tailored package!