Turkey
Cultural Odyssey: Istanbul, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale & Turquoise Coast
September 5 - September 15, 2026
Tour is escorted by Undiscovered Frontiers
Tour Manager & Local Guides
Tour Introduction & Journey Map
Join an 11-day Turkey cultural odyssey through ancient history and breathtaking landscapes. Begin with an Istanbul cultural tour, unveiling the Blue Mosque’s tiles, Hagia Sophia’s grandeur, and bustling Grand Bazaar. Explore Troy and Ephesus on an Ephesus historical tour, marveling at ancient ruins. Admire Pamukkale’s snow-white travertines, master pide-making in Selçuk. Sail the Turquoise Coast cruise tour from Fethiye to Kekova’s sunken ruins, and unwind in Antalya’s historic Old Town, immersed in a Turkey cultural odyssey.
Tour Itinerary
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Welcome to Turkey! Land in vibrant Istanbul and breeze through customs to meet our friendly representative, who’ll guide you to the elegant Royan or similar 4-star hotel for check-in. Spend your evening at leisure, strolling lively streets near your hotel, savoring your first Turkish dinner at a cozy local spot, and soaking in the city’s enchanting blend of history and culture. Check-in from 3:00 pm, launching your unforgettable journey!
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Embark on an Istanbul walking tour in Istanbul! Discover the Blue Mosque’s stunning blue tiles and six minarets on a guided Blue Mosque tour. Visit the historic Hippodrome, alive with ancient chariot races. After explore the iconic Hagia Sophia on a Hagia Sophia guided tour, a 6th-century marvel. Roam Istanbul’s hidden streets, savoring Turkish local cuisine. Relax overnight at a cozy 4-star hotel, immersed in Turkey’s vibrant heritage.
Optional Afternoon Activities:
- Galata Tower
- Basilica Cistern
- Istanbul Archaeological Museums
- Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
- Grand Bazaar
- Spice Market -
Embark on a Turkey cultural tour from Istanbul to Bursa in comfort. Join a guided Bursa tour, exploring the historic Muradiye Complex, iconic Green Tomb, and majestic Great Mosque. Wander the Tophane district, home to Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi’s tombs. Journey to vibrant Çanakkale, a charming harbor town. Enjoy a Çanakkale promenade walk, soaking in its scenic coastal vibe. Relax overnight at Büyük Truva or similar 4-star hotel, immersed in Turkey’s rich heritage.
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Embark on a Turkey cultural adventure from vibrant Çanakkale to legendary Troy on a guided Troy tour, where ancient myths thrive. Journey to charming Ayvalık, enjoying an Ayvalık coastal lunch experience by its scenic shores. Travel to historic Selçuk, a gateway to Turkey’s past, and relax at the Elegant Kalehan or similar 4-star hotel. Dive into the rich heritage of these timeless towns, blending epic history and stunning coastal beauty on this unforgettable tour.
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Discover ancient Ephesus on a guided Ephesus tour, exploring its famed Roman ruins and the Temple of Artemis, a Seven Wonders gem. In historic Selçuk, enjoy a Turkish pide-making experience, savoring your fresh flatbread for lunch. Stroll Izmir’s vibrant Kemeraltı Bazaar on a guided walk, immersing in local flavors. Return to Selçuk for a cozy overnight at your 4-star hotel, steeped in Turkey’s rich heritage.
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Embark on a Turkey natural wonders tour by train through stunning mountains to iconic Pamukkale, the ‘cotton castle.’ Join a Pamukkale hot springs tour from Denizli, where your guide awaits. Explore dazzling white travertines, formed by cascading hot springs, and wade in their healing pools. Marvel at this UNESCO gem’s beauty on a Denizli guided tour. Relax overnight at Adem Pira or similar 4-star hotel in Pamukkale, immersed in Turkey’s breathtaking natural heritage.
Optional Sightseeing Activities:
Pamukkale - Cleopatra Ancient Pool
Hierapolis Ancient Theater
Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
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Discover a Fethiye Turquoise Coast tour, traveling west to the stunning coastal gem of Fethiye. Arrive and relax on pristine beaches, wander the charming Fethiye Old Town, or soak in the scenic harbor experience. Explore Lycian history and vibrant markets, perfect for a Turkey coastal vacation. Unwind at Sunlight Fethiye or similar 4-star hotel, immersed in the Turquoise Coast’s breathtaking beauty and rich heritage, ready for more adventures.
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Enjoy the Turquoise Coast vacation with a leisure day in vibrant Fethiye! Dive into a Fethiye Saklıkent Gorge adventure, canyoneering through stunning cliffs. Trek the famed Kayaköy to Ölüdeniz route, a world-class hike. Try water sports or visit the Fethiye Museum for a cultural tour. Soak in Fethiye’s scenic harbor views, dotted with islands. Relax at a 4-star hotel, immersed in Turkey’s coastal and Lycian heritage.
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Discover a Kekova gulet boat cruise on a Turkey Turquoise Coast adventure! Explore charming Kekova’s coastal village, then sail on a Kekova sunken ruins tour, spotting ancient submerged houses. Visit quaint Uçagız, with flower-draped stone homes, on an Uçagız village exploration. Swim in serene inlets and savor a fresh dinner aboard. Drive to vibrant Antalya, relaxing at Khan Hotel or similar 4-star hotel, immersed in Turkey’s stunning coastal heritage.
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Discover an Antalya Kaleiçi walking tour in vibrant Antalya! Explore the charming Kaleiçi Old Town and iconic Hadrian’s Gate on a Hadrian’s Gate historical tour, uncovering Roman heritage. Relax on Antalya’s stunning Mediterranean beaches, perfect for an Antalya beach relaxation experience. Immerse in the Turquoise Coast’s allure on this Turkey Turquoise Coast itinerary. Unwind at a comfortable 4-star hotel in Antalya, steeped in coastal and cultural splendor.
Optional Sightseeing Activities:
Visit ruins of Perge, a once-thriving Roman city. Return to Antalya and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the beach. -
After breakfast in the morning, transfer to the airport to catch flight to Istanbul and connect your international flight to home. End of the service.
Photo Gallery
Land Tour Price Only (International airfare, taxes & fuel surcharges are not included)
Group Size: Minimum 7, Maximum 14 Participants
Tour Price: $4,450 Per Person Based on Double Occupancy
Single Room Supplement: $550 Per Person (Solo travelers may request a shared room. If no roommate is available, the single supplement fee will apply)
Booking Details: This tour is priced and operated based on a group arrangement, requiring a minimum of 7 participants and a maximum capacity of 14 travelers. To confirm your booking, submit a signed Tour Booking Form along with a $1000 per person deposit. Final payment is due 90 days before departure. The Initial Deposit Guarantee allows cancellations up to 91 days before departure. Please refer to the full Terms & Conditions for details on refunds and cancellation policies. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re happy to help!
Why is Travel Insurance Important: In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact on your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer Travelex Insurance protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For more information on the available plans contact Travelex Insurance at 1-800-228-9792 and reference our location number 22-0359.
Tour Includes:
One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Nine nights of accommodation at 4-star hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
Services of Tour Manager and local English-speaking guides throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites in the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Selcuk - Pamukkale train ride.
Gullet Boat cruise.
Porterage at the hotels.
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Tour Does Not Include:
International airfare.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, items from hotels mini bars, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (Recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodation, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Any item not mentioned as included.
Tour Fitness Level:
Moderate: Suitable for travelers of all ages in good health, with a moderate level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. The tour will include some long walking days and periods of standing while exploring various sites. Some attractions may involve walking on uneven terrain or navigating steep staircases. Expect a few elevation changes, a well-paced but busy schedule, and several long overland drives. If you have any questions or would like more details about the trip, we’re happy to discuss it with you.
Lodging Level:
Comfortable (3/4-stars): Stay in cozy lodges and hotels with comfortable rooms and en-suite bathrooms. While the services may be more straightforward, you’ll still enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, with essential amenities and on-site facilities that provide a comfortable, hassle-free experience, all meeting international standards.
Visa & Passport:
U.S. passport holders can enter Turkey without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to ensure they have the correct and valid visa for entry. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your departure date from Türkiye and should have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
What to Expect on This Journey:
This journey through Turkey will take you on a rich and rewarding exploration of the country’s fascinating history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Expect scenic drives and daily sightseeing tours that bring you face-to-face with iconic landmarks, Roman ruins, ancient cities, and coastal towns. The itinerary includes moderate walking and exploration on foot, especially in historical areas such as Ephesus, Troy, and the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, where cobblestone paths and uneven terrain are common. While some sites may lack modern accessibility features, discovering them on foot is a meaningful part of the experience.
Transportation will be provided in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles. Some travel days include longer overland stretches between regions like Bursa, Canakkale, and Fethiye, but regular stops will ensure comfort and opportunities to enjoy Turkey’s diverse landscapes—from fertile valleys and mountains to the shimmering Aegean coast. While most days follow a relaxed pace, early mornings may be required to make the most of certain locations or travel logistics.
By joining this tour, participants acknowledge they are in good physical and mental health, and they accept the spirit of flexibility and adventure that enhances this kind of immersive travel. Undiscovered Frontiers is committed to delivering a seamless and enriching journey, though occasional itinerary adjustments may be made to accommodate local conditions or unforeseen circumstances. In the rare event of Force Majeure, changes or cancellations may be necessary to protect the safety and comfort of all travelers.
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