13D Magic Explorer

Price from $ 6005 per person on Twin sharing basis

Istanbul – Gallipoli – Canakkale – Troy – Kusadasi – Pamukkale – Konya – Cappadocia – Adiyaman – Sanliurfa – Gobekli Tepe – Sanliurfa – Gaziantep – Istanbul

Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey through Turkey, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Istanbul. This expertly crafted itinerary takes you from the historical landmarks of Istanbul to the poignant Gallipoli Battlefields, the legendary ruins of Troy, and the ancient wonders of Ephesus. Discover the breathtaking travertines of Pamukkale, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, and the eastern treasures of Mt. Nemrut, Göbekli Tepe, and Sanliurfa. Along the way, experience unique cultural traditions, ancient sites, and scenic landscapes, while staying in boutique and 4-star accommodations.

Itinerary

Day 1

Sat, Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul! You will be transferred to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours, free to explore.

Day 2

Sun, Istanbul Old City (B)

After breakfast, you enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace (including Hagia Irene and the Harem) and the Hippodrome. Cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia in the afternoon with an optional 'Half day Bosphorus cruise'.

Day 3

Mon, Istanbul – Canakkale (B/D)

One of the most emotionally touching places in Turkey, today we visit the WWI Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, original trenches and tunnels.

Day 4

Tue, Canakkale – Kusadasi (B/D)

Depart from Çanakkale and head towards Troy, where we will explore the ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the new, award-winning Troy Museum. We continue on to the old village of Behramkale, a picturesque settlement with stone houses and narrow streets that offer a glimpse into traditional Turkish village life. You will have time to explore the village, take in the beautiful scenery, and perhaps enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee at a local café. From Behramkale, we head south to Kuşadası.

Day 5

Wed, Kusadasi –Ephesus – Kusadasi (B/D)

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre before exploring the Ephesus Archaeology Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey, and at the carpet village, we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value.

Day 6

Thu, Kusadasi – Pamukkale (B/D)

This morning we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods before heading to the magnificent white calcium terraces, known as Travertines, in Pamukkale where we also tour the ancient city of Hierapolis. Take a dip, amongst ancient columns, in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic powers.

Day 7

Fri, Pamukkale – Konya (B/D)

Today we travel the ancient Silk Road visiting Sultanhani Caravansary and the Mevlana museum in Konya along the way. Tonight, don't miss the optional traditional Turkish folklore evening!

Day 8

Sat, Konya – Cappadocia (B/D)

Marvel at the lunar landscape of Cappadocia today as we visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and the fairy chimneys and explore the many levels of an underground city.

Day 9

Sun, Cappadocia – Adiyaman (B/D)

Leaving Cappadocia early in the morning, we drive to Adiyaman, passing through Kahramanmaras. Our day will culminate with a stunning sunset at Mt. Nemrut. We venture towards the majestic Mount Nemrut, home to the Tombs of Commagene Kingdom and the towering Colossal Statues of Gods. Ascending to the Tumulus of Antiochos, the former capital of Kommagene, we'll await a breathtaking sunset from the summit of Nemrut. This ancient funerary monument, concealed in time for almost two millennia, will be a remarkable backdrop as the sun descends, painting the sky in hues of serenity atop Mt. Nemrut.

Day 10

Mon, Adiyaman – Sanliurfa (B/D)

Following breakfast, our journey takes us to Sanliurfa (Urfa) via a scenic route, passing the impressive Ataturk Dam and the historic town of Harran, known for its unique mud-brick houses and ancient city walls. In Sanliurfa, we will explore the revered Holy Pools of Abraham and visit the cave believed to be the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham.

Day 11

Tue, Sanliurfa – Gobekli Tepe – Sanliurfa (B/D)

Our first destination is Gobekli Tepe, the most significant archaeological site of our time, reshaping our understanding of early human history. This sacred site reveals the earliest-known religious structures, dating back an astonishing 11,000 to 13,000 years, predating pivotal human advancements like pottery, writing, Stonehenge, and even the Pyramids. Following this, we will visit the Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum, KizilkoyunNekropolis, and the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum.

Day 12

Wed, Sanliurfa – Gaziantep – Istanbul (B)

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic drive towards Gaziantep, with a stop in Halfetien route. Upon arrival in Halfeti, enjoy a captivating boat trip on the tranquil waters of the Euphrates River, where you'll discover the intriguing partially sunken city and learn about its rich history and culture. After the boat trip, continue to Gaziantep, one of Turkey’s culinary capitals.

First, visit the renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to some of the most stunning Roman mosaics ever discovered, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s ancient past. Following the museum visit, you’ll have free time in Gaziantep’s city center, where you can explore local bazaars, shop for traditional products, or enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring Gaziantep’s world-famous cuisine (such as baklava, kebabs, or beyran soup). Lunch is not included in the tour price, but your guide will be happy to recommend excellent local restaurants.

Late afternoon, transfer to Gaziantep Airport for domestic flight back to Istanbul.

Day 13

Thu, Istanbul (B)

After breakfast our tour concludes, and we say goodbye to our new friends and are transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Includes: 13 nights’ accommodation, meals, transfers & tours in airconditioned vehicles, English speaking guide, monuments entrances

Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exoticholidays.co.nz for more information.

Small group tour operated is by Fez Travel Turkey

Start Dates:

2025:  Aug 9, 23; Sep 6, 20; Oct 4, 18; Nov 1, 15, 29

2026:  Mar 7, 21; Apr 4, 18; May 2, 16, 30; Jun 13, 27; Jul 11, 25; Aug 8, 22; Sep 5, 19; Oct 3, 17, 31; Nov 14, 28