Culture & Ruins of Turkey

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Canakkale, Sirince & Ephesus, Pamukkale

Ideal for history and archaeology lovers, this private Turkey tour features a wide range of important sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage-inscribed ruins of Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus and Aphrodisias; the World War I sites of Gallipoli; and the unbelievably rich cityscape of Istanbul.

Begin in Istanbul. During flexible private touring of this UNESCO-inscribed city, visit sights such as the Aya Sofya (Hagia Sophia), the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and its Harem, the Rustem Pasha Mosque, an ancient underground cistern and the Spice Market. Shop for carpets and kilims, jewelry, glass, textiles and antiques at the Grand Bazaar and our favorite boutiques. Also visit Istanbul's most interesting museums, such as the Istanbul Modern. There will also be time to enjoy the city's wonderful cafes and vibrant neighborhoods.

Next, travel along the shores of the Sea of Marmara, stopping in Gallipoli to visit World War I battlefields and monuments. Sail across the Dardanelles to tour the archaeological remains of Troy, the fabled city in Homer's epic The Iliad and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue to Sirince, a charming traditional village in the hills. En route, tour the sprawling ruins of the ancient city of Pergamon (Pergamum), another UNESCO site, including highlights such as the extraordinary hilltop Acropolis and the Asklepion. Another day, tour the magnificent, UNESCO-listed ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, the Terrace Houses and the Ephesus Museum.

Next, see the Temple of Aphrodite and other UNESCO-inscribed ruins of the ancient city of Aphrodisias. Continue to Pamukkale, a UNESCO mixed cultural and natural site comprising sparkling white terraces formed by mineral hot springs and the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient thermal spa.

Return to Istanbul for a stay in a room with a view of the Bosphorus. Continue your private city touring or opt for an excursion to Princes' Island.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

• Private touring with your own personal guides and drivers
• Preferred rooms in the very best luxury hotels
• Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our travel specialists
• Itineraries that are customized according to your interests and schedule
• Artisans of Leisure upgrades and amenities
• A seamless travel experience, including all logistics, skipping lines during touring whenever possible, restaurant and spa reservations, performance tickets, private airport transfers, internal transportation, VIP and fast-track airport assistance in many destinations
• Around-the-clock support in each destination during your trip
• Unique, insider travel experiences and access to the Artisans of Leisure network of experts around the world