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Legends of Turkey: From Empires to Eternity

11 days

Easy

Cultural Tour

Legends of Turkey – From Empires to Eternity is an 11-day cultural odyssey through the soul of Anatolia. Designed by BMT Travel for curious minds and history lovers, this immersive journey unveils Turkey’s most iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and spiritual heritage.

Begin in Istanbul, where East meets West in the shadow of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Cruise the Bosphorus and witness the city’s timeless skyline. In Cappadocia, explore surreal valleys, ancient cave dwellings, and underground cities carved by civilizations long gone. Konya invites you into the mystical world of Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes. Pamukkale’s white terraces and Hierapolis ruins offer a glimpse into nature’s artistry and Roman grandeur.

From the sacred battlefields of Gallipoli to the legendary ruins of Troy and Ephesus, every step of this tour is a walk through history. A wine tasting in the charming village of Şirince adds a flavorful touch to your cultural immersion.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking depth, authenticity, and unforgettable moments across Turkey’s most storied landscapes.

Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus Cruise

  • Cappadocia: Göreme Open Air Museum, Underground City, Fairy Chimneys
  • Konya: Mevlana Museum, Çatalhöyük Neolithic Site
  • Pamukkale: Travertines, Hierapolis Ancient City
  • Kuşadası & Ephesus: Temple of Artemis, Library of Celsus, Wine Tasting in Şirince
  • Pergamon & Troy: Acropolis of Pergamon, Troy Museum
  • Gallipoli: ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials
What's included?
    1. Domestic flight (Istanbul → Cappadocia)
    2. Airport transfers
    3. Professional English-speaking guide
    4. Wine tasting, Bosphorus cruise
    5. Air-conditioned private transport
    6. 10 Breakfast, 10 Lunch, 10 dinner
    7. All entrance fees.
    Exclusions
      1. Entry Visa, if required
      2. International flights
      3. Gratuities for tour guide, driver and tour leader
      Please note
        • Cultural Depth: The tour encompasses visits to mosques and spiritual centers(Istanbul, Konya), ancient ruins(Ephesus, Troy), and natural wonders(Cappadocia, Pamukkale). This variety requires an adaptable approach and wardrobe suitable for all these different environments.
        • Optional Experiences: Hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia are popular (optional and weather-dependent) and may require prior booking. A local wine tasting in the charming village of Şirince will add a flavorful touch to your cultural immersion.
        What to bring

          1. Clothing and Attire Requirements

          The main focus of your preparation for this tour should be balancing respect and comfort:

          Respectful Attire for Spiritual Visits:

          • Long Skirts/Pants and Long-Sleeved Tops: Carry clothing that covers shoulders and knees to show respect when visiting mosques in Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque) and the Mevlana Museum in Konya.
          • Headscarf (For Women): Definitely carry a light headscarf for entry into mosques and as a sign of respect in spiritual centers like Konya.

          For Open Air and Ancient Cities:

          • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Non-slip, comfortable, and closed walking shoes are an absolute must, as you will be walking for hours over slippery terraces (Pamukkale), ancient stone pathways (Ephesus), and the terrain of Gallipoli.
          • Layered Clothing: The weather can be cool, especially during early morning balloon descents in Cappadocia or during the Bosphorus cruise. Pack easily removable layers like a cardigan, jacket, or fleece.

          2. Health and Protection

          • Sun Protection Products: High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat/cap are essential due to the exposure in the open areas of the ancient cities and the white terraces of Pamukkale.
          • Water Bottle: Carry a reusable water bottle to prevent dehydration, especially in the ancient cities during warm months.
          • First-Aid Supplies: In addition to personal medications, bring basic items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any preferred anti-diarrheal medication for long walking days.

          3. Technological and Documentation Necessities

          • Power Bank: Due to intensive use of your phone for photos, navigation, and guide apps, your battery may drain quickly. Bring a spare battery or power bank.
          • Adapter: Carry chargers suitable for the Type C/F European standard(two round pins) sockets commonly used in Turkey.
          • Documents: Ensure you have your passport, flight/tour tickets, hotel reservations, and the contact information for your tour agency.

          4.  Optional but Recommended Items

          • Swimwear/Bathing Suit: Needed if you plan to swim in the Hierapolis/Cleopatra Ancient Pool in Pamukkale (Optional).
          • Small Backpack/Daypack: Use a lightweight secondary bag to carry water, camera, and small items during daily excursions, leaving your main luggage at the hotel.
          • Camera: Bring a good camera and plenty of memory cards to capture the unique landscapes of Cappadocia and the grandeur of the historical ruins.