Anatolian mythology tour following the footsteps of the gods

Explore Turkey’s rich history and natural wonders on a 10-day private tour from Antalya to Çanakkale. Discover ancient ruins, world heritage sites, and stunning landscapes.

Duration: 10 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

From Antalya to Çıralı

Lower Duden Waterfalls - Düden Waterfalls, located in Antalya, Turkey, are a captivating natural wonder, offering a unique experience for visitors. These waterfalls are divided into two sections: the Upper Düden Waterfalls and the Lower Düden Waterfalls. The Upper Düden Waterfalls are nestled within a lush park, surrounded by greenery, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and picnicking. The water cascades down from a height of about 20 meters, creating a refreshing atmosphere. Visitors can explore the hidden cave behind the waterfall, where the thundering sound of the water adds to the enchanting experience.

The Lower Düden Waterfalls, on the other hand, are situated closer to the Mediterranean coast. Here, the water plunges directly into the sea from a height of approximately 40 meters, creating a spectacular view, especially when seen from a boat. The sight of the waterfall merging with the turquoise sea is mesmerizing.

Termessos - Termessos is an ancient city located high in the Taurus Mountains, near Antalya, Turkey. Known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning natural surroundings, Termessos is often called the “Eagle’s Nest” due to its altitude and strategic position. The city, once inhabited by the Pisidians, resisted Alexander the Great’s siege in 333 BC. Visitors can explore its impressive theater, agora, and tombs, all set against breathtaking mountain views, making it a remarkable historical site.

Olympos Teleferik - Olympos Teleferik is a cable car ride located near Antalya, Turkey, connecting the Mediterranean coast to the summit of Mount Tahtalı at 2,365 meters. The journey offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and forests, making it a unique experience for visitors. At the summit, there are viewing platforms, a café, and opportunities for hiking. Olympos Teleferik is one of the longest cable car rides in the world, providing a thrilling adventure with stunning scenery.

Cirali - Çıralı Yanartaş, also known as the Chimaera, is a natural phenomenon located near Çıralı in Turkey. It’s famous for its eternal flames, which have been burning for thousands of years due to methane gas escaping from the earth. These small fires, scattered across a rocky hillside, are best seen at night, creating a mystical atmosphere. The site holds historical significance, linked to ancient myths, and offers a unique experience for hikers and nature lovers visiting the Lycian coast.

Free Day in Çıralı

Cirali - Çıralı Yanartaş, also known as the Chimaera, is a natural phenomenon located near Çıralı in Turkey. It’s famous for its eternal flames, which have been burning for thousands of years due to methane gas escaping from the earth. These small fires, scattered across a rocky hillside, are best seen at night, creating a mystical atmosphere. The site holds historical significance, linked to ancient myths, and offers a unique experience for hikers and nature lovers visiting the Lycian coast.

From Demre To Fethiye

Church of St. Nicholas - The Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, Turkey, is a historic site dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop who inspired the legend of Santa Claus. Built in the 6th century, the church is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians. It features well-preserved Byzantine frescoes, mosaics, and the original sarcophagus believed to be Saint Nicholas’s tomb. The church’s rich history and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit destination for those exploring Turkey’s cultural heritage.

Tlos - Tlos is an ancient city located in the Lycian region of southwestern Turkey, near modern-day Fethiye. Known as one of the oldest and most important settlements in Lycia, Tlos was continuously inhabited from the Bronze Age through to the Byzantine period. The city is perched on a rocky hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding valley. Key features include a well-preserved Roman theater, rock-cut tombs, baths, and an acropolis. Tlos is also associated with the mythological hero Bellerophon.

Butterfly Valley - Butterfly Valley (Kelebekler Vadisi) is a stunning natural reserve located in the Fethiye district of southwestern Turkey. Nestled between steep cliffs, the valley is accessible mainly by boat. It is named after the large population of butterfly species, particularly the Jersey tiger butterfly, that inhabit the area. The valley offers a serene environment with lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and a picturesque waterfall. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers, campers, and those seeking tranquility.

From Fethiye to Marmaris

Lycian Rock Tombs - The Dalyan King Tombs, also known as the Lycian Rock Tombs, are ancient burial sites carved into the cliffs overlooking the Dalyan River in southwestern Turkey. These tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC, are a remarkable example of Lycian architecture, featuring intricate facades that resemble classical temples. The most notable tombs are those of the Lycian kings and nobles. The site is accessible by boat and offers stunning views, making it a popular attraction for visitors interested in history and natural beauty.

Knidos Antik Kenti - Knidos, an ancient city located on the Datça Peninsula in southwestern Turkey, was a prominent cultural and trading hub during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Founded around the 4th century BC, Knidos is renowned for its impressive ruins, including a large theater, an agora, temples, and the famous circular Temple of Aphrodite, which once housed the statue of Aphrodite by Praxiteles. The city was also an important center for science and art, home to the astronomer Eudoxus and the renowned medical school. Today, Knidos attracts visitors with its well-preserved ruins and stunning coastal views.

Free day in Marmaris

Marmaris - Marmaris is a popular resort town located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, along the Turkish Riviera. Known for its vibrant nightlife, picturesque marina, and stunning natural surroundings, Marmaris is a major destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. The town is set against a backdrop of pine-covered hills and offers beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide range of water sports.

Historically, Marmaris was a significant port and has been inhabited since ancient times, with the Marmaris Castle, dating back to the Ottoman era, being one of the key historical sites. The town also serves as a gateway to other nearby attractions, such as the ancient city of Knidos, the Dalyan River, and the secluded coves along the coastline. With its combination of modern amenities, historical sites, and natural beauty, Marmaris is a diverse and appealing destination for travelers.

From Marmaris to Geyre

Mausoleum of Halicarnassus - The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, located in present-day Bodrum, Turkey, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built between 353 and 350 BC, it was the tomb of Mausolus, a satrap of the Persian Empire, and his wife, Artemisia II. The structure was designed by Greek architects Satyros and Pythius, and it stood approximately 45 meters (148 feet) tall, adorned with sculptural reliefs created by renowned artists of the time.

The Mausoleum’s design was a blend of Greek, Egyptian, and Lycian architectural styles, featuring a massive rectangular base, a colonnaded section, and a pyramidal roof topped by a chariot statue. It was not only a monument to Mausolus but also a symbol of the city’s power and wealth.

Bodrum Castle - Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, is a historic fortress located in Bodrum, Turkey. Built by the Knights of St. John between 1402 and 1523, the castle served as a stronghold against invasions during the Crusades. The castle is situated on a strategic promontory overlooking the Aegean Sea, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.

Bodrum Castle is renowned for its robust construction and impressive architecture, blending elements of medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The fortress includes multiple towers named after different nations that contributed to its construction, such as the French, Italian, English, and German towers.

Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology - Today, Bodrum Castle houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of the most important museums of its kind in the world. The museum displays a rich collection of artifacts recovered from shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea, including ancient glass, bronze, and ceramic items. The castle itself, with its well-preserved walls, courtyards, and towers, remains one of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in Bodrum, attracting numerous visitors each year.

Temple of Apollo - The Temple of Apollo, located in Didyma, Turkey, is one of the most significant ancient Greek temples. Built around the 4th century BC, it was dedicated to Apollo, the god of prophecy, music, and the arts. The temple was famous for its oracle, second only to Delphi in importance. Known for its grandiose size, the temple features impressive columns and intricate carvings. Although never completed, the ruins of the Temple of Apollo remain a remarkable example of ancient architecture and a popular tourist attraction.

From Geyre to Pamukkale

Aphrodisias - Aphrodisias is an ancient city located in southwestern Turkey, renowned for its well-preserved ruins and its dedication to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Founded around the 3rd century BC, the city flourished during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Aphrodisias was famous for its exquisite marble sculptures and its school of sculpture, which produced works distributed across the Roman Empire. Key sites include the Temple of Aphrodite, a large theater, the Sebasteion, and a well-preserved stadium. The city’s ruins, set amidst a scenic landscape, make it a significant archaeological and tourist site.

Pamukkale - Pamukkale, located in southwestern Turkey, is a natural wonder renowned for its stunning white terraces made of travertine, a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich thermal waters. The name “Pamukkale” means “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, reflecting the appearance of these terraces, which resemble a snowy landscape. For thousands of years, people have visited Pamukkale to bathe in its warm, therapeutic waters, which are believed to have healing properties.

Adjacent to Pamukkale is the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which was founded in the 2nd century BC. Hierapolis was a major center for healing and religion, with its well-preserved ruins including a theater, a necropolis, and the famous Cleopatra’s Pool, where visitors can still swim among ancient columns submerged in the warm waters.

From Pamukkale to Bergama

The Temple of Artemis - The Temple of Artemis, located in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey), was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Also known as the Artemision, it was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and fertility. The temple was originally constructed in the 6th century BC, and it was renowned for its grand size and ornate sculptures.

The Temple of Artemis was built entirely of marble and measured approximately 115 meters in length and 55 meters in width, making it one of the largest temples of the ancient world. It featured 127 columns, each about 18 meters tall. The temple served not only as a religious center but also as a marketplace and a cultural hub.

Ephesus Museum - The Ephesus Archaeological Museum, located in Selçuk, Turkey, is a renowned museum that houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and daily life of Ephesus, which was once a major city of the Roman Empire.

Key exhibits include statues of Artemis, the goddess to whom the famous Temple of Artemis was dedicated, as well as intricately carved sarcophagi, mosaics, and household items from the Roman period. The museum also features the famous “Ephesus Gladiator Tomb” exhibit, showcasing artifacts related to the gladiatorial games held in the city.

Ancient City of Ephesus - Ephesus is perhaps best known for the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though little remains of it today. Other significant structures include the Library of Celsus, an iconic building that once housed thousands of scrolls, and the Great Theatre, which could seat up to 25,000 spectators. The city also features impressive ruins of Roman baths, terraced houses with intricate mosaics, and the Marble Street, which connected major parts of the city.

The city played a crucial role in early Christian history, being mentioned in the Bible as one of the seven churches in the Book of Revelation. The Apostle Paul spent several years in Ephesus, and the city is traditionally associated with the last home of the Virgin Mary.

Today, Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors annually, offering a unique glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman and Greek civilizations.

From Bergama to Güzelyalı

Bergama - Pergamon, located in modern-day Bergama, Turkey, was a major ancient city known for its cultural, political, and medical significance. Founded in the 3rd century BC, it became the capital of the Attalid dynasty and was famed for its monumental structures, including the Pergamon Altar and a vast library rivaling Alexandria’s. Pergamon was also a center for medicine, with the Asclepion healing center. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering well-preserved ruins that reflect its historical importance.

Assos - Assos, an ancient city located on the Aegean coast of Turkey, was founded in the 7th century BCE by Aeolian Greeks. It is renowned for its Temple of Athena, perched on a hilltop with stunning views of the sea, and its well-preserved city walls, theater, and necropolis. The philosopher Aristotle lived and taught in Assos for a period, adding to its historical significance. Today, Assos is an important archaeological site, blending rich history with beautiful natural surroundings.

From Güzelyalı to İstanbul

Troy (Truva) - The ancient city of Troy, located in modern-day Turkey near the Dardanelles, is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Known from Homer’s epic, “The Iliad,” as the setting of the Trojan War, Troy has a rich history spanning over 4,000 years. The site reveals multiple layers of settlements, showcasing its significance through different periods. Key features include the ancient walls, the remnants of temples, and a replica of the famed Trojan Horse. Troy remains a symbol of ancient mythology and history.

Museum of Troy - The Troy Museum, located near the ancient city of Troy in Turkey, is a modern and comprehensive museum dedicated to the history and archaeology of Troy and the surrounding region. Opened in 2018, the museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts, including pottery, tools, and sculptures from various periods of Troy’s history. The museum’s exhibits are designed to provide insights into the legendary Trojan War, the daily life of its inhabitants, and the archaeological discoveries made at the site. The Troy Museum is a key cultural attraction, offering a deep connection to the ancient world.

Istanbul - Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a vibrant metropolis that bridges Europe and Asia across the Bosporus Strait. With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Istanbul has served as the capital of three great empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Istanbul is also a modern, bustling hub of commerce, culture, and tourism, blending its historic charm with contemporary life. The city’s unique blend of East and West makes it a truly captivating destination

What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Museum tickets
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
  • Drinks
  • Dinner
Additional Information

Turkey’s historical and cultural heritage is of great importance for the country’s national identity and international recognition. Places like Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Pergamon reflect Turkey’s rich history that spans from ancient times to the present and are recognized as world heritage sites. These regions not only showcase Turkey’s historical richness but also make significant contributions to global cultural heritage.

Every year, millions of tourists visit Turkey’s unique historical ruins, natural wonders, and cultural sites. These tourist activities help to invigorate local economies and bring in foreign currency.

Turkey’s natural beauty is also valuable for raising environmental awareness and promoting ecotourism. For instance, the eternal flames of Mount Chimaera, the travertines of Pamukkale, and the hiking trails along the Lycian Way are prime examples of Turkey’s natural wealth.

Location
Istanbul Airport
Terminal Caddesi
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 8 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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