14-Day Turkey Grand Circle Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, & Beyond

History enthusiasts will love this two-week journey through Turkey. Immerse yourself in the country's rich heritage, from the vibrant energy of Istanbul to the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia. Explore legendary sites like Troy & Ephesus, and unwind on the stunning coast of Antalya.

Our dedicated travel advisors are ready to work together with you to create a customized itinerary that fits your needs and schedule.

• Days:14±
• Best for:History Lovers
• Best time:Apr.-May. / Sep.- Oct.
• Departure date:up to you
• Sample price:US$5,899 each (2 per room)

Brief Itinerary for Turkey Grand Circle Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, & Beyond Tour

Let me create a personalized Turkish itinerary that combines the best of ancient history and stunning natural landscapes for you!

• Monica Mo
• 8 years of travel advisor experience
• Has helped 5,000+ clients

Tour Highlights

Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Highlights Travel (HT Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Highlights Travel (Only With HT) included in this tour:

Delve into the archaeological wonders of Troy and unravel its enigmatic past.

Witness a concert by the Turkish Mehter Band, a historic military ensemble.

Experience the beauty of Pamukkale with pristine terraces and soothing springs.

Escape to the Mediterranean coast and find solace in its tranquility.

Explore Cappadocia fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings.

Experience the visual feast of the Hagia Sophia's architecture and mosaics.

Wander through the ruins of Ephesus, and feel the weight of history beneath your feet.

Obtain a distinct viewpoint of Istanbul's landmarks while cruising along the Bosphorus.

Admire the stunning pink and orange hues mirrored in the crystal-clear salt lake.

Indulge in the sensory delights of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.

Journey Map (Suggested Route)

Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration

Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful tour for you.

Day 1

Istanbul Arrival

• Welcome to the mesmerizing country of Turkey!
• Upon your arrival at Istanbul airport, our representative will meet you at Exit Door No.14 and ensure a comfortable transfer to your hotel.

Private Transfer to Your Istanbul Hotel

Day 2

Istanbul | Stroll Through the Halls of History

• Meet your private guide for an exciting Istanbul heritage walking tour.
• Stroll through Hippodrome Square and admire the iconic Obelisk and Serpentine Column, silent witnesses to a bygone era.
• Delve into the Topkapi Palace and discover the opulent residence of past sultans of the Ottoman Empire.
• Admire the beautiful Blue Mosque with its iconic blue tiling.
• Explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, marveling at its grandeur and intricate mosaics.
• Wrap up your Istanbul adventure at the Grand Bazaar - 3,000 shops for every desire, then return to the hotel.

the Blue Mosque

Day 3

Istanbul | Take in the Sights of the Bosphorus

• Explore the narrow streets of the Spice Market with your private guide and lose yourself in this shopping adventure.
• Gain a unique perspective on Istanbul's landmarks aboard a Bosphorus cruise (shared), enjoying stunning coastal views.
• Step into the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, a 19th-century Ottoman masterpiece gracing the Bosphorus waterfront.
• Head to the Military Museum and enjoy a captivating 30-minute concert by the 50-member Mehter Band, followed by a chance to explore the museum's vast collection of Ottoman artifacts.

the Bosphorus cruise

Day 4

Istanbul - Gallipoli | Honor World War I Memorials

• Meet your private guide and driver for the start of your Gallipoli Peninsula journey.
• Experience the epic story of the ANZAC campaign firsthand as you visit Anzac Cove, the site of their initial landing.
• Immerse yourself in history at Beach Cemetery and pay respects at the grave of Private John Simpson Kirkpatrick.
• Step into the shoes of a soldier at Johnston's Jolly and feel the raw intensity of the battlefield.
• Conclude your day with a check-in at the Canakkale hotel.

Anzac Cove Gallipoli

Day 5

Troy | Unveil the Forgotten Tales of Troy

• Explore the ancient world at the Troy Museum, home to artifacts and the legendary Trojan Horse.
• Discover Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage site with nine ancient layers dating back 3,500 years, including Homer's iconic city.
• Walk in ancient footsteps and delve into the epic tale of the Trojan War amidst impressive defensive walls.
• After the tour, relax on the return journey by van to the Canakkale hotel.

Ruins of Troy

Day 6

Canakkale - Kusadasi | Ancient Sites Discovery

• Embark on today's journey to Kusadasi, taking in the ancient wonders of Assos and Pergamon.
• Explore Assos' Ancient Ruins, including temples, a theater, and the iconic Temple of Athena.
• Discover the Ancient City of Pergamum, famous for its Acropolis, amphitheater, Zeus Altar, and library.
• Immerse yourself in the Asklepion tranquil courtyards and intricate architecture, picturing its vibrant healing past.
• After learning the rich history of the old towns, proceed to Kusadasi for an overnight stay.

ancient city of Pergamum

Day 7

Kusadasi | A Glimpse into Rome Grandeur

• Journey to the magnificent ancient city of Ephesus, where Saint Paul once ministered, as mentioned in the Book of Revelation.
• Experience the Ancient city of Ephesus with its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences. Marvel at the ruins, including the Library of Celsius and the Great Theatre.
• Visit the Artemis Temple and Ephesus Museum.
• Conclude the day with a soulful pilgrimage to the House of the Virgin Mary.

Great theatre of Ephesus

Day 8

Kusadasi - Pamukkale | Witness the Natural Marvels

• Head to the ancient city of Hierapolis, boasting remarkably preserved 2nd-century entertainment venues.
• Ascend the theater's steps to imagine ancient performances, then explore the Agora and wander the architectural marvels of the Necropolis.
• Witness the transformative power of nature at Pamukkale, where snow-white travertine cliffs cascade in a mesmerizing display of natural artistry.
• Bask in Pamukkale's therapeutic thermal pools, revered for their restorative powers and delightful warmth.

the Pamukkale

Day 9

Pamukkale - Antalya | A Journey to the Sunbeach

• This morning, continue your adventure to the sunny shores of Antalya.
• Settle into your Antalya hotel and spend a leisurely day soaking up the sun on the beach.

Antalya beach

Day 10

Antalya - Konya | Marvel at Diverse Wonders

• Uncover the Perge Ancient City, from Roman Baths to the grand stadium, along a 15 km stretch of ruins in the Pamphylia region.
• Discover the hidden secrets of Aspendos, a city frozen in time with its remarkably preserved Roman ruins.
• Visit the Mevlana Museum in Konya and pay your respects at the final resting place of the great Sufi mystic, Mevlana.

Perge ancient city

Day 11

Konya - Cappadocia | Salt Lake Discovery

• Head to Cappadocia via the Salt Lake-Tuz Golu.
• Discover the Sultanhan Caravanserai, a vibrant relic of the Silk Road where cultures collided and commerce thrived.
• Wander around Tuz Golu Salt Lake, experience its unique charm, and capture its stunning colors.
• Check into the Cappadocia hotel and explore the local area at your own pace.

Tuz Golu Salt Lake

Day 12

Cappadocia | A Voyage Through Fairy Chimneys

• Delve into the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, a treasure trove of rock-cut churches adorned with stunning, well-preserved frescoes.
• Explore Pasabag and Zelve Open Air Museum, famed for their mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and cave dwellings carved for religious use.
• Head to Devrent Valley, known as the "Imagination Valley," where you'll witness peculiar rock formations.
• Observe a skilled artist's pottery-making demonstration in Avanos and then create your pottery under the guidance of an instructor.
• Conclude your day with a drop-off at your hotel.

The Goreme Open Air Museum

Day 13

Cappadocia | Cappadocia Green Tour Awaits

• Embark on today's Cappadocian adventure from Goreme Panorama, where you'll be captivated by the fairy chimneys.
• Descend into the depths of Kaymakli Underground City, a captivating refuge for early Christians seeking solace from persecution.
• Delve into Ihlara Valley, where early Christians once carved churches and painted them throughout its various sections.
• Explore the Selime Monastery, a dramatic backdrop for the Star Wars movie.
• Prepare to be greeted by pigeons in Pigeon Valley, where intricately carved houses lining the slopes showcase their historical importance to Cappadocians.

the Pigeon Valley

Day 14

Cappadocia | Departure

• As dawn paints the sky, you have the option to soar above Cappadocia's breathtaking landscapes in a hot air balloon.
• Explore the lovely town on your own before your driver transfers you to Kayseri airport for the flight home.

hot air balloon in Cappadocia

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

Hand-Picked Hotels

We select hotels with style and local features. Let us know your preferences and we'll find your ideal hotel.

Best Western Empire Palace

Doubletree By Hilton

Ilayda Avantgarde Kusadasi

Hotel Hal Tur Pamukkale

Falcon Hotel Antalya

Bera Konya Hotel

Mithra Cave Hotel