Start your day with a pickup from your European-side Istanbul hotel, and travel to the port where your ferry awaits. Cruise south across the Sea of Marmara to Yalova, and then continue your journey by air-conditioned minivan. After just over two hours of traveling, arrive into Bursa, the first capital city of the Ottoman Empire.
Get to know Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, on a day trip from Istanbul! With a private guide at your side, travel by minivan and ferry to the city and then visit some of its landmark monuments. Gaze in awe at the colorful grandeur of the Green Mosque, and then learn of the city as an Ottoman-era silk powerhouse on a trip to Bursa Silk Market and the Koza Han building. After lunch, ride to the top of Mt Olympus (Snow Hill) by cable car and some impressive city views.
Ottoman Empire was one of the largest empires in the history. Bursa was its first capital. The city that is settled on the northwestern slopes of Mount Uludag is known as "Yesil Bursa" (meaning "Green Bursa") from its beautiful parks and gardens located throughout the city. This fourth largest city of Turkey is also known for its peaches, chestnuts, and silk industry.
Departure by ferry-boat via Yalova, enjoying the lovely countryside view. Drive to Bursa, former Ottoman Capital and lunch of famous "Kebap of Alexander The Great". Climb to Uludag, the legendary Mount Olympos, by Teleferik (Cable Car), visit to Ulucami (Grand Mosque), the Green Mosque and the Green Mausoleum, the old Silk Market in the Covered Bazaar. Late evening return to Istanbul and transfer to hotels.
The city is frequently cited as "Green Bursa" in a reference to the beautiful parks and gardens located across its urban tissue, as well as to the vast forests in rich variety that extend in its surrounding region. The city is synonymous with the mountain Uludağ which towers behind the city core and which is also a famous ski resort. The mausoleums of early Ottoman sultans are located in Bursa and the numerous edifices built throughout the Ottoman period constitute the city's main landmarks. The surrounding fertile plain, its thermal baths, several interesting museums, notably a rich museum of archaeology, and a rather orderly urban growth are further principal elements that complete Bursa's overall picture.
In depth exploration of Turkey from BCE to now. I now have a greater appreciation of its position within history and its influence globally. Would certainly recommend G Adventures as an introduction to this fascinating country
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Selçuk, Ayvalık, Canak
Istanbul, Selçuk, Ayvalık, Canakkale, Ankara, Goreme, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale
Explore Büyükada, the largest of Turkey’s Princes’ Islands, on this full-day trip from Istanbul! Cruise across the Sea of Marmara, watching the sights of Istanbul slip from view, and then explore the pedestrianized island in the best possible way – by horse-drawn carriage! Hear the history of this laid-back island from your expert local guide and then spend time at leisure, perhaps relaxing on its beaches, before returning to Istanbul.
PHAETON RIDE, SPLENDID HOTEL, WOODEN HOUSES Büyükada, literally “Big Island” in Turkish, is the original Princes' Island, and the largest and most populated of the Princes’ Islands. Büyükada was used as an exile destination and as a monastery region during the Byzantine Christian period. During the Byzantium history the island was also used as a prison for those who were opposing the Emperor. It was Büyükada where the Byzantine empresses Irene and Zoe and Anna Dalassena were sent on....
Take the ferry to one of the Princes' Islands, Buyukada (Big Island) which is a quiet sea front town and summer holiday escape from the city. Leaving the Golden Horn by ferry, you will round Sarayburnu (Seraglio Point), the headland on which the domes and minarets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque can be seen. We will pass four islands with their charming old Ottoman houses and finally reach Buyukada, the largest of the islands. Upon arrival to the island, you will see the lavish Ottoman mansions and other beautiful Victorian summer villas around the island .
We will take a tour of the island by Phaeton (horse and cart) and will pass elegant old wooden mansions and beautiful natural scenery. you can enjoy a delicious lunch in a cozy sea-side fish restaurant and relax looking back at the domes and minarets among skyscrapers of modern Istanbul's skyline. This a perfect day for relaxing and enjoying one of Istanbul's residents' favorite summer retreats. Return by ferry and drop off to hotel or port.
Embark on a 10-day journey through Turkey, beginning and ending in Istanbul. Explore the Old City’s Ottoman and Byzantine past before heading to Gallipoli’s poignant WW1 sites. Step into legend at Troy, marvel at ancient Ephesus, and bathe in the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. In surreal Cappadocia, discover cave dwellings, underground cities and fairy chimneys, with the chance to take a magical hot air balloon ride. From bustling bazaars to ancient ruins and natural wonders, this tour offers a rich mix of history, landscapes and unforgettable Turkish hospitality.
Long bus journey but worth it. Major sights visited in Istanbul city.
Gallipolli and Troy well worth visit,very interesting,hard to imagine human cost of war.Trenches still visable. Lots of archaeology at Troy and replica of wooden horse to go in. Good photo opportunities. Ephesus with ancient streets,roman toilets,columns,mosaics and carving of menorah. Amazing amphitheatre at Parmakeele,The Thermal Springs. Lots of people but lots of space. White rocks fab,water not warm,skin felt refreshed after dip. Hotels used were high quality. Breakfasts delicious. Time to visit museum shops and time for coffee break.
Guide allowed plenty of toilet stops.
Experience the best of Turkey on this 14-day adventure from Istanbul to Cappadocia and back. Discover the historic wonders of Istanbul’s Old City, pay tribute at Gallipoli, and walk through the legendary ruins of Troy and Ephesus. Soak in the thermal terraces of Pamukkale, cruise to Turtle Beach, and relax on the Turquoise Coast in Fethiye. Marvel at Antalya’s old town charm and delve into mystical Konya. In Cappadocia, explore surreal valleys and ancient cave dwellings, with the chance for a hot air balloon ride. The tour ends with time in the Ottoman gem of Safranbolu and a final stroll through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Cappadocia, Safranbolu
Istanbul, Cappadocia, Safranbolu, Gallipoli Peninsula, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Antalya
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Explore Turkey like never during this private, guided, 13-day tour. Take in the sights and sounds of Istanbul with your tour guide during two full-day tours before heading for Cappadocia, the land of fairy chimneys and ancient churches.
Uncover the myths and legends surrounding Christianity in Ephesus. See its ancient ruins, including the House of the Virgin Mary. Continue to Pergamon, yet another historic destination and home to one of the Seven Churches of Asia according to the Book of Revelation. See the calcium terraces of Pamukkale before heading for the coastal city of Bodrum, the final destination in the itinerary.
Unlike most other Turkey tours, this trip includes a visit to Prince's Islands in Istanbul. Domestic flights are included in the tour price. Please note that we can also customize the itinerary as per your requirements.
A wonderful introduction to Turkey, this 8 day tour takes in many of the ancient sites. From the thriving city of Istanbul with a full day tour included, you will move on to explore the WWi battlefields of Gallipoli and the ancient historical sites of Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus and Pamukkale.
NOTE: On 2025 departures the following visits will be replaced:
Ancient Pergamum - Replaced with a visit to Assos.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Gallipoli Peninsula, E
Istanbul, Gallipoli Peninsula, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cape Town
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Explore the best of Turkey and enjoy the Mediterranean on this private 8-day guided tour. See the best of Istanbul, the fairy chimneys at Cappadocia, the open-air museum at Göreme, and the incredible city of Antalya.
This incredible tour package takes you through Istanbul for a full two days, Cappadocia for two full days, Antalya for two full days, and Pamukkale for one full day! This is the perfect trip for those who want to explore Turkey at a leisurely pace, and it includes a full free day in Antalya for your explorations.
The package includes accommodation, flights, expert guides to each destination, meals, transport, and more. As this is a private tour, it is possible to customize it to your requirements.
Visit some of the key locations in Turkey on this 9-day private tour that starts and ends in Istanbul. The tour takes you through Istanbul, Bursa, Ephesus, Cappadocia, and more destinations in Turkey. See the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, the ancient city of Ephesus, the most important mosques in the region, and more. Because it’s a private tour, you’re also able to customize the tour as you wish!
This is a land route tour, so you’ll have a chance to see more of the landscapes, cities, and villages while on a road trip. The tour package includes accommodation, transportation, an expert guide, most meals, and insurance. We arrange everything, you just enjoy it.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Kusadasi, Cappadocia
Istanbul, Kusadasi, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Bolu
Join us on this 10-day small-group tour that starts and ends in Istanbul, offering the perfect introduction to Turkey's rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin your journey in the enchanting city of Istanbul, then travel down the picturesque Aegean Coast to explore iconic sites steeped in ancient history. Finally, experience the unique, otherworldly beauty of Cappadocia, with its surreal landscapes and fascinating cultural heritage.
What makes this tour truly exceptional is our fully guided experience. From the moment your adventure begins on Day 1 until the farewell on the last day, a professional tour guide will be with you every step of the way. As knowledgeable experts and dedicated companions, our guides manage every detail, share captivating stories, and provide personalized insights, ensuring a stress-free and enriching journey through Turkey’s most remarkable destinations.
Our guide takes you from your hotel/seaport with private vehicle to visit most visited places of istanbul.
Discover the extraordinary sights of Istanbul according to your own itinerary with a private guide for 1 to 5 days.
Straddling 2 continents on the Bosphorus Straits, Istanbul was the capital of the Roman Empire and later Ottoman Empire. Today it’s the largest city in Turkey, and one of the most populous cities in the world with about 15 million inhabitants.
Choose the attractions you want to see according to your own schedule, and avoid getting lost in the crowd. Guides can be booked for 1, 2 ,3,4 or 5 days,
Must-see monuments include the iconic Blue Mosque, former mosque of the Hagia Sophia, and stunning subterranean Basilica Cistern. Soak up the exciting atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, and the enticing aromas of the Spice Market. Learn the history of Istanbul at Ottoman palaces, such as Dolmabahce Palace, and the former residence of the sultans at Topkapi Palace.
Go to the imperial Suleymaniye Mosque, or admire the 17th-century Yeni Cami (New Mosque). See the Medieval Galata Tower in the Karaköy quarter, or the Byzantine frescoes of the Chora Museum. Explore some of Istanbul’s fabled neighborhoods, such as Taksim, and wander down busy Istiklal Street. Enjoy picturesque views from Pierre Lottie Hill. Discover the remains of the old city walls, or go to the Archaeology Museum to see ancient Islamic art and Roman artifacts.
These are just a few of the things you can do on your tour. A guide will be provided in the language of your choice, with help pre-booking skip-the-line tickets to the most popular attractions on request for added convenience.
At the end of the tour we drop you back to your hotel/seaport.
Embark on an intensive 5-day journey through Turkey's most poignant historical sites and natural wonders! Begin at the solemn Gallipoli battlefields, honoring WWI history, before delving into the myths of ancient Troy and its new museum. Discover the grandeur of Ephesus, exploring its renowned Library of Celsus and Temple of Artemis, then marvel at Pamukkale's breathtaking white travertine terraces and therapeutic hot springs. This captivating tour offers a deep dive into Turkey's rich past and stunning landscapes, culminating with a convenient return flight to Istanbul.