10-DAY Western Turkey Explorer With 3 Nights Iconic Aegeans

Set out on a captivating 10-day journey through Western Turkey and the enchanting Aegean Islands. From the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the historic sites of Gallipoli and Pergamum, this tour immerses you in the rich tapestry of the region. Unwind at the Pamuk Kale thermal springs and explore the stunning Greek islands of Patmos, Heraklion, Santorini, and Mykonos. Comfortable accommodations, delectable meals, and a luxurious 3-night cruise on the Celestyal Olympia ensure an unforgettable experience. Discover the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that awaits.

Key Points

• A 10-day Western Turkey Explorer tour focusing on the historical and cultural richness of western Turkey and the Aegean region.
• Key highlights include exploring Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, visiting the Gallipoli battlefields, and discovering the ancient city of Pergamum.
• The tour includes a 3-night cruise to the Greek islands of Patmos, Heraklion, Santorini, and Mykonos.
• Accommodation includes 2 nights in Istanbul, 3 nights in Kusadasi, 1 night in Canakkale, and 3 nights on the Celestyal Olympia cruise.
• The tour emphasizes an immersive travel experience, with a range of activities from visiting ancient sites to soaking in thermal springs.

Tour Overview

The 10-day Western Turkey Explorer tour provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover the historical and cultural richness of western Turkey and the Aegean region.

The tour highlights iconic destinations like Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, as well as Gallipoli, Pergamum, Pamuk Kale thermal springs, and the Greek islands of Patmos, Heraklion, Santorini, Athens, and Mykonos.

Accommodations include 2 nights in Istanbul, 3 nights in Kusadasi, 1 night in Canakkale, and 3 nights on a Celestyal Olympia cruise.

The tour offers a diverse range of activities, from walking ancient roads to visiting the House of the Virgin Mary.

Highlights of Istanbul

Istanbul, the captivating capital of Turkey, serves as the starting point for the Western Turkey Explorer tour.

Travelers will enjoy the city’s rich history, exploring iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.

The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque, now stands as a museum showcasing its stunning architecture.

The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque, now stands as a museum showcasing its stunning architecture.

The Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue-tiled interior, is a masterpiece of Ottoman design.

The Topkapi Palace, once the seat of the Ottoman sultans, houses an impressive collection of imperial treasures, including the Spoonmaker’s Diamond and the Topkapi Dagger.

Exploring Gallipoli and Pergamum

What lies beyond the captivating sights of Istanbul? The next stop on the Western Turkey Explorer tour is the historic Gallipoli peninsula.

Travelers will explore the battlefields and memorials of this poignant World War I site.

Next, the group ventures to the ancient city of Pergamum, known for its impressive Acropolis and well-preserved ruins.

They’ll visit the Asklepion, an ancient healing center, and marvel at the iconic Red Basilica.

This journey through Turkey’s past provides a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of its civilizations.

Pamuk Kale Thermal Springs and Greek Islands

From the ancient ruins of Pergamum, the Western Turkey Explorer tour takes travelers to the stunning Pamuk Kale thermal springs.

Also known as "Cotton Castle," this natural wonder features terraced, milky-white travertine pools. Visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while admiring the stunning landscape.

The tour then explores several Greek islands, including:

1. Patmos, the island where St. John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation.

2. Heraklion, the capital of Crete and home to the Minoan palace of Knossos.

3. Santorini, famous for its stunning caldera views and whitewashed buildings.

Accommodation and Meals

After exploring the natural wonders of Pamuk Kale and the Greek islands, the Western Turkey Explorer tour provides comfortable accommodations and delectable meals for its participants.

Travelers will enjoy 2 nights in Istanbul, 3 nights in Kusadasi, and 1 night in Canakkale.

Travelers will enjoy 2 nights in Istanbul, 3 nights in Kusadasi, and 1 night in Canakkale.

The highlight is a 3-night cruise on the Celestyal Olympia, where they’ll be treated to 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 3 dinners, with beverages included.

The ship also offers entertainment and activities like a pool, fitness center, and lounge areas.

Plus, free Wi-Fi for 1 hour daily and port taxes are included.

Inclusions and Activities

The Western Turkey Explorer tour includes an array of comprehensive inclusions to enhance the travel experience. Transfers to and from airports, as well as air-conditioned land transportation, ensure a seamless journey.

Mealtime is delightful with 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 3 dinners, complemented by beverages. Onboard entertainment and amenities, such as a pool, fitness center, and lounge areas, provide opportunities for relaxation.

Plus, the tour offers:

1. 1 hour of free Wi-Fi daily

2. Port taxes and ship service charges

3. Soft and alcoholic drinks available throughout the day

Entry Tickets and Additional Costs

Along With the comprehensive inclusions, the Western Turkey Explorer tour also covers various entry tickets to historical sites.

The tour provides access to iconic landmarks like Topkapi Palace, Troy Ancient City, Acropolis & Asklepion, House of Mary & Ancient Ephesus, Pamukkale Travertines, and Hagia Sophia.

While these entry fees are included, optional tips for guides and drivers, as well as any extra tours or personal expenses, aren’t covered.

Plus, travelers aged 70 and above will be subject to a 20 € surcharge for travel insurance.

A Schengen visa is also required for this tour.

Meeting and Pickup Information

For the Western Turkey Explorer tour, pickup points are available, and the driver will have a sign with the traveler’s name.

The tour starts daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, from April 7, 2025, to November 11, 2025. Confirmation is received at booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller accessible.

Free entry is provided for children 8 years and below, and pre-paid skip-the-line tickets are provided by the guide.

The key meeting and pickup details are:

1. Pickup points available

2. Confirmations received at booking

3. Free entry for children 8 and below