Explore Turkey in all its glory, on this amazing 8-day trip. From Istanbul’s cool, cosmopolitan city life and the laid-back beach vibe at Bodrum, it’s all packed into this unforgettable getaway.
What to expect during the 8 Days Pearls of Turkey?
Tours can be customized according to the group you want to go to. Our knowledgeable and experienced travel consultants will be able to reach your desired holiday location without having to search for individual places.
What to expect during the 8 Days Pearls of Turkey?
Day 1: Istanbul – Arrival Day
One of our team will meet you at the airport and help you transfer to your hotel – a drive that takes around half an hour. Spend the rest of the day soaking up the luxurious surroundings of your five-star hotel, right on the Bosphorous waterfront.
Day 2: Istanbul City Tour
Start your exploration of Turkey this morning with a private guided tour of Istanbul, celebrating the historic city’s Ottoman Relics. The first stop is the opulent Topkapi Palace, a huge 15th-century palace complex with a very colorful history, and a great place to get insights into the history of Turkey. Originally residence to Fatih Sultan Mehmet, then subsequent Sultans right up until the 19th century, the Palace gives a glimpse into what life was like for these powerful Ottoman Sultans. The sprawling Harem, spread over 400 rooms, was home to the Sultan’s wives and many concubines, and an unmissable part of the tour.
Day 3: Istanbul City Tour
Today you’ll step back in time, to learn about Istanbul’s fascinating Ottoman and Byzantine history. Your tour guide will share eye-opening stories of the past, as you visit the Hippodrome – once a public area, home to rowdy chariot races and gladiatorial games, and now a tranquil square surrounded by landscaped gardens – before moving on to the Blue Mosque. Arguably one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – and an absolute must when exploring Turkey – this enormous mosque is so-called due to the blue tiles that decorate the interior walls. You’ll also get the chance to explore beautiful Hagia Sofia. This 1,500-year-old landmark is not only a feat of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture but also one with a unique past, starting out as a Greek Orthodox church before turning into a mosque. After a short stroll, you’ll get to learn even more about the history of Turkey as you head underground to the impressive Basilica Cistern – an atmospheric world of pools and columns built in the 6th century to provide water for the city.
Back above ground, round off your tour with a trip to one of Istanbul’s oldest bazaars. The Spice Bazaar, with its heady scents of saffron, cloves, sugar, and spices, is a real treat for the senses.
Day 4: Istanbul – Bodrum
After a morning to explore more of the city, this afternoon you’ll be met and driven to the airport for your short domestic flight to the delightful town of Bodrum. Located on the shores of the glittering Aegean, Bodrum occupies the site of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. An earthquake destroyed the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus in medieval times but if you’re intrigued, some of its colossal statues and marble relief slabs can be seen in the British Museum in London. Greek writer and ‘father of History’ Herodotus also once called the city home. Today’s Bodrum is a popular destination for discerning holidaymakers and there are several excellent hotels to choose from.
Day 5: Bodrum Rest Day
Today we’d recommend making the most of your restful surroundings, with the shimmering waters of the Aegean in front of you, and the beautiful hills behind. Relax on the beach or by the pool, or if you really can’t sit still, your hotel spa offers a tempting range of treatments.
Day 6: Explore Bodrum Peninsula
Today we suggest you visit Bodrum. Engage with the region’s maritime past at the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Pop into the Zeki Muren Arts Museum to learn about the life and work of Turkey’s Elvis. Then take a hike up to see the windmills just out of town; the coastal views are spectacular and well worth the effort. St Peter’s Castle is the perfect place to end the day, watching a spectacular sunset from its tower. Call in on the Mausoleum on your way to the newly renovated Palmarina to enjoy dinner overlooking the marina’s many yachts, the ideal spot for people-watching before you head back to the hotel.
Day 7: Gullet boat cruise
Gulets are traditional two or three-masted wooden sailing boats still commonly seen in Turkey, with Bodrum being one of the most important centers for boat building. Chartering a crewed gulet for a day cruise is straightforward if you’d like to take this optional excursion. Your crew will take care of all the hard work, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your surroundings. They’ll anchor up in a pretty bay so you can enjoy a refreshing swim and then serve a delicious mezze-style lunch. Then close your eyes and let the warmth of the sunshine and the sound of gently lapping waves lull you to sleep.
Day 8: Departure from Bodrum Airport
After a long, breakfast it’s time to say farewell to Turkey. A driver will transfer you to the airport where you’ll first catch a domestic or international flight from Bodrum.
Extra Tour Details
- Everyday departure (All year round)
- Duration: 8 days
- Private/Group
What has been included in this excursion?
Included:
- Accommodation BB
- All sightseeing & excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- Lunch during the tours
- Transfer service from Hotels & Airport
- English Guide
Excluded:
- Beverage during the tour
- Tips to the guide&driver(optional)
- Not mentioned diners
- Not mentioned flights
- Personal expenses
