Turkey

Aug 30

Discover the Hidden Treasures of Antiquity

October 12 - October 26, 2025

Tour is escorted by Undiscovered Frontiers
Tour Manager & Local Guides

Tour Introduction:

Turkey serves as the main bridge between different cultures and regions. The territory around the Sea of Marmara played an important role and served as an intermediary point of connection between Europe and Asia. Since the time of colonization by the ancient Greeks, seaways and straits have successfully linked the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas with the waters of the Black Sea by bringing new ideas, valuable knowledge, exotic cultures, and wealthy trade into one region. We will start our journey from Istanbul, which offers visitors fascinating history, cultural heritage, and unique hospitality. We will continue our adventure to Cappadocia, which displays moonscape landscapes and caves crafted by erosion. You will explore the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites of antiquity, like Ephesus, Sagalassos, Hierapolis, Troy, and many more. Join us on this fascinating journey of discovery and adventure to explore stunning landscapes, exquisite architecture, bustling colorful bazaars, and culinary endeavors.

Tour Itinerary:

Welcome to Turkey! Arrive in Istanbul. Your transfer driver will meet you at the arrival hall of the International Terminal of Istanbul Airport holding a sign bearing your name. Transfer to Levni 4* hotel or a similar hotel for check-in. Free evening at leisure and enjoy your welcome dinner with the members of the group.
Note: The hotel is available for check-in at 3:00 pm.
Following Turkish breakfast, we will spend the morning exploring the Sultanahmet district, the historic quarter of Istanbul. The renowned Aya Sophia was ordered by Emperor Justinian and constructed in the sixth century. We will also visit the Blue Mosque, with its spectacular array of domes and semi-domes and its six thin minarets rising from the mosque's corners. From this location, we may access the old Hippodrome, the site of chariot races, and the Byzantine capital. Then you will visit the Istanbul Archaeology Museum. Here, you will learn about the various ages of the city and admire the exquisite antiques brought from various Ottoman Empire territories. You will then visit Hagia Irene, the earliest museum of the Ottoman Empire. After lunch, we will travel to Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. You will also have a chance to explore the harem of the Sultans. Overnight at Levni 4* or a similar hotel in Istanbul.
You will begin the day by visiting Dolmabahce Palace. During your tour of the magnificent palace, you will be able to compare the different periods of Ottoman sultans. Then you will proceed to Taksim Square and the Beyoglu district. The tour includes visits to alleyways, famous dessert stores, and coffee houses, as well as Galata Tower, which offers a breathtaking view of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. Before returning to the hotel, we will explore the Grand Bazaar to experience its distinct atmosphere. After sufficient time has been spent here, the journey to the Spice Market will be rather entertaining. Explore the market and enjoy a free evening at leisure. Overnight at Levni 4*or a similar hotel in Istanbul.
Breakfast will be followed by an early flight to Cappadocia. Upon our arrival, we'll make our way to the underground city of Kaymakli. Cappadocian refugees sought refuge in this network of caves, which could hold up to six thousand people. After that, we'll head to Three Beauties, the most well-known of the region's fairy chimneys. Dervent is the final destination of the day. Devrent Valley is unique among Cappadocian valleys in that it has never been inhabited. Neither troglodyte tunnels nor pigeon houses have been carved out of the solid rock, and there are no ancient cathedrals or castles. Devrent Valley, on the other hand, is renowned for its spectacular pink rock formations and geological anomalies, which have been shaped by erosion over many generations. Overnight at Nino Cave Suites 5* or a similar hotel in Nevsehir.
To catch the sunrise over Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, we'll be leaving the hotel early this morning (This sightseeing activity is optional and subject to an additional fee). After the balloon ride, we will return to the hotel for a leisurely hearty breakfast then you'll set out to discover the rich history of this breathtaking region. Your first stop will be the Goreme Open Air Museum, where you can see cave churches decorated with exquisite murals depicting scenes from the Bible. After that, you'll visit Pasabag, a town famous for its fairy chimneys that each have three separate heads. Also on the itinerary for today is a trip to Uchisa Castle, a fortress that previously served as a lookout point. Along the way, you'll stop at scenic viewpoints of Cappadocia to enjoy moonscape landscapes from a bird's eye view. Overnight at Nino Cave Suites 5*or a similar hotel in Nevsehir.
You will drive to Konya today. You will visit a Sultanhani Seljuk caravanserai from the 13th century along the journey. We will eat lunch upon arrival in Konya and then tour the Mevlana Museum and Tomb. Even though he was born in Afghanistan, Mevlana (Rumi) spent his life in Konya, where he became one of the greatest poets and theologians in history. After sufficient time has been spent here, you will be transferred to a Hich 4* hotel or similar for an evening at leisure and an overnight stay.
After a delicious breakfast, we will begin our journey to the Mediterranean shore, passing via the Taurus Mountains. The Aspendos theater, which is the best-preserved ancient theater, will be our first stop. We will then go to Perga or Perge, an ancient Greek city in Anatolia that was formerly the capital of Pamphylia Secunda and is currently located in the province of Antalya. We will admire pre-Roman structures in the Hellenistic style. Continue to one of the most frequented resort cities in the world, Antalya. Evening at leisure, followed by an overnight stay at Puding 4* or a similar hotel.
After a nice breakfast, we will begin our day with a visit to the Archeological Museum in Antalya. This museum is largely considered one of the most remarkable institutions of its sort in the country. These items were unearthed at ancient sites in the region of Antalya and are a superb addition to the trip experience. The Karain cave, the ancient city of Perge, and the Lycian culture cities are among the most notable historical sites on show in this museum. Your afternoon is free for leisure to explore the coastal town of Antalya, noted for its historic city streets, or to relax in the luxury of Puding 4* or a similar hotel.
After an early morning meal, we will depart for the village of Burdur to see the UNESCO Archeological site of Sagalassos. After touring these amazing ancient Roman ruins, we'll have lunch in the town of Burdur. Continue our drive to Pamukkale. Upon arrival, we will begin exploring the UNESCO-recognized ancient city of Hierapolis. Beginning at the North Gate, we shall walk through the Ancient Necropolis (Cemetery). To date, Italian archaeologists have discovered around 1200 tombs in the region. Nowhere else on Earth is there such a vast old cemetery. Afterward, observe the remaining ruins at the Roman Baths, Domitian Gate, and Frantinus Avenue. Observe the enormous Roman theater, which seats 10,000 individuals. Pamukkale's calcium deposit terraces are a must-see. Those who are interested can swim in the famous pools of Cleopatra. This is the city where the martyrdom of the apostle Saint Philip occurs. Overnight at Adempira Thermal & Spa 5* Hotel or similar in Pamukkale.
After breakfast, we will travel to Aphrodisias, an ancient Greek and Roman city dedicated to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site consists of two components: the Aphrodisias archaeological site and the marble quarry located northeast of the city. A century after the construction of the Aphrodite temple, which dates back to the third century BCE, construction of the city began. Enjoy lunch and then head to the Seljuk Farmers Market, held every Saturday. Upon arriving in Kusadasi check in to Ilayda Avantgarde 4* or a similar Hotel.
The Temple of Artemis, one of the seven ancient marvels, will be our first destination as we tour the lovely UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus today. The Odeon, Basilica, Domitian Square, Trajan's Fountain, Celcus Library, Terrace Houses, Marble Street, Ephesus' Grand Theater, and Harbour Street will be observed. Lunch will be served at Sirince Village, which is renowned for its fruit wines. You will have the opportunity to explore this picturesque village after lunch. Enjoy a leisurely evening and overnights at Ilayda Avantgarde 4* or a similar Hotel in Kusadasi.
You will be picked up from your hotel at roughly 8:00 a.m. and drive to the UNESCO site of Pergamon, which was founded in the third century B.C. and served as the capital of the Attalid dynasty. From the summit of the hill, you will have a panoramic view of the surrounding area that is simply breathtaking. Admire the enormous Athenaeum library, which initially contained 200,000 manuscripts and was later given to Cleopatra by Mark Antony as a wedding gift. The Temple is a colossal marble edifice that has been substantially reconstructed using actual fragments unearthed on-site. Following this, you will visit the renowned Sanctuary of Asclepius, situated in the valley below the Acropolis. After a delicious lunch of Turkish delicacies, you will get the opportunity to see the Pergamon Archaeological Museum, which has various rare artifacts unearthed on the site. After that, we will drive to Cunda, the largest of the Greek-Turkish Ayvalik Islands. Stay at the Ziyabeg Konagi 3* or a similar hotel in Cunda.
Today, you will visit an additional UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Troy. It is among the oldest historical and archeological sites in Turkey. Relive the splendor of ancient Troy and study the tales and legends surrounding Achilles, the Trojan Horse, and Helen of Troy on this comprehensive tour. Spend some time visiting and learning about the city's famous history, which dates back to 3500 B.C., before posing next to the well-known Trojan Horse statue. Then proceed to Canakkale, which is located on the Dardanelles, the narrow waterway between the Aegean and Marmara Seas. Upon arrival check in to Limani 4*or a similar Hotel.
You will be picked up from your hotel and taken on a 20-minute ferry trip over the Dardanelles. You will begin the tour of ANZAC battlefields and memorials upon your arrival. You will view Brighton Beach, Beach Cemetery, ANZAC Cove, Ariburnu Cemetery, ANZAC Commemorative Site, Respect to Mehmetcik Statue, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, and Johnston's Jolly. Sections of Turkish and ANZAC trenches that are still standing, 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial, The Nek, and Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial. Enjoy your farewell dinner with the group and overnight at Levni 4* or a similar hotel in Istanbul.
Breakfast at the hotel. You will be transferred to Istanbul Airport for your international flight back home.

Land Tour Price Only: (International Airfare, Taxes & Fuel surcharges are not included)

5-6 Travelers:

USD 7,850 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

7-8 Travelers:

USD 6,700 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

9-10 Travelers:

USD 6,350 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

Single Room Supplement:

USD 1.050 Per Person (For all nights of the tour if you wish to stay in a single room).

Note: Group tour rates are quoted on a transparent and competitive pricing basis for brackets of 5-6, 7-8, and 9–10 travelers. A minimum of 5 participants is required to run the tour, and the tour will have a maximum capacity of 10 participants. Tour booking is subject to the booking terms and conditions outlined in the reservation form. Please read the terms and conditions carefully, and feel free to contact us with any questions.

Tour Fitness Level

Moderate: Fits all age groups with good health, some fitness level, and a sense of adventure. There will be some long walking days and a bit of standing while touring. Access to some of the sites and attractions will require walking on uneven terrain or steep staircases. Few elevations, a pleasant but busy schedule, and several long overland drives during the tour. Feel free to discuss the details of the trip with us.

Lodging Level

Comfortable (3/4-stars): Lodges and hotels that provide a decent size room & an ensuite bathroom. A range of enhanced services, some of the onsite amenities, and a level of service that is acceptable by international standards.

Visa & Passport

U.S. passport holders require a Turkish visa. Further details related to the visa application process will be sent out sixty (60) days prior to the trip. Ensuring that correct & valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the last day of the trip & should include an empty page to stamp the visas.

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.
Fourteen (14) nights of accommodation at 3* & 4* 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).
Istanbul – Nevsehir domestic flight.
Portage 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 air USA - Istanbul - USA.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Consular visa fees for a Turkey visa. (Obtained online or on arrival).
Personnel expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, &, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodations, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Hot air ballooning activity ( approx. 300$)

Useful Details to Know & Tour Map:

This trip will require long driving distances overland. The roads are paved and in a good condition. For the comfort of the travelers, air-conditioned transportation will be provided throughout the trip. We will be making several restroom stops, stretching our legs, and enjoying the scenic views on the way. During the sightseeing days, travelers must be able to walk a minimum of two to three miles to keep up with fellow travelers. Walking to and from sites could be on uneven surfaces or unpaved paths. Please note that elevators are not available at tour sites. We may have a few drives on poor-quality roads which are required to access the historical and archeological gems of the country. Please make sure to have a comfy outfit and shoes for the sightseeing days. By signing up for this tour, participants agree that they have read and understood all the terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health and have an open mind, a sense of adventure, and the ability to be tolerant and patient for the entire period of the tour. To ensure that the itinerary runs efficiently and for the comfort and/or safety of travelers, Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to modify the order of the sightseeing activities at any time before departure or after the tour begins or cancel the tour if the planned itinerary is not possible to operate in the event of Force Majeure.