Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Arrive in Istanbul, the vibrant city that bridges Europe and Asia.
- Check-in to your hotel.
- Spend the afternoon exploring Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
- Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner.
Day 2: Istanbul – Bosphorus Cruise and Grand Bazaar
- Take a Bosphorus cruise to enjoy stunning views of the city and its landmarks from the water.
- Visit the Grand Bazaar for shopping and experiencing the bustling atmosphere.
- Explore the Spice Bazaar and sample Turkish sweets.
- Evening at leisure.
Day 3: Istanbul – Modern Districts
- Visit Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue for modern shopping and dining.
- Explore the contemporary Istanbul Museum of Modern Art.
- Enjoy a Turkish coffee in a local café.
Day 4: Cappadocia – Land of Fairy Chimneys
- Fly to Cappadocia.
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the unique rock formations at sunrise (optional).
- Explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum and the Uchisar Castle.
- Overnight stay in a cave hotel.
Day 5: Cappadocia – Underground Cities and Hiking
- Discover the underground city of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu.
- Enjoy a scenic hike through the Love Valley or Rose Valley.
- Visit local handicraft workshops.
Day 6: Pamukkale – Cotton Castle
- Drive or fly to Pamukkale.
- Explore the surreal terraces of white mineral-rich deposits.
- Relax in the thermal waters of Hierapolis ancient pool.
- Overnight in Pamukkale.
Day 7: Ephesus and Kusadasi
- Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean.
- Explore the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis.
- Continue to Kusadasi and relax by the sea.
Day 8: Bodrum – Turquoise Coast
- Drive to Bodrum.
- Explore Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
- Enjoy the lively nightlife and beach clubs.
Day 9: Antalya – Gateway to the Turkish Riviera
- Drive to Antalya.
- Explore the old town, Kaleici, with its narrow streets and Ottoman-era architecture.
- Relax at Konyaalti or Lara Beach.
Day 10: Perge and Aspendos
- Visit the ancient city of Perge with its well-preserved ruins.
- Explore the ancient theater of Aspendos.
- Return to Antalya for the night.
Day 11: Caves of Antalya and Turkish Bath
- Explore the Duden Waterfalls and Duden Park.
- Visit Karain Cave, one of the oldest human settlements in Turkey.
- Experience a traditional Turkish bath (hammam).
Day 12: Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you might have some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Depart from Antalya or Istanbul, bringing back wonderful memories of Turkey.
Please note that this itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized based on your interests, the time of year you’re traveling, and any specific attractions or activities you want to include. Also, make sure to check for any travel advisories or updates before your trip.
Day 1 Arrive in Istanbul, the vibrant city that bridges Europe and Asia.
.1 Istanbul, a city characterized by remarkable disparities, operates as a crossroads where the influences of the East and West coalesce, and where the ancient blends seamlessly with the contemporary. A tangible representation of this harmonious merging is the Bosphorus Bridge—an architectural wonder that links the domains of Asia and Europe, spanning the Bosphorus Strait and facilitating crucial links for the urban’s commerce and transportation.
Beyond being a mere functional edifice, the Bosphorus Bridge serves as both a functional infrastructure and an emblematic testament to the city’s luxurious history. It encapsulates the historical chronicle of Istanbul while acting as a cultural intermediary that bridges the cultural identities of both Asia and Europe. This piece embarks on an exhaustive exploration of the history, conception, and significance of the Bosphorus Bridge, shedding light on the factors underpinning its stature as an indispensable attraction for all voyagers venturing through Istanbul.
2 Spend the afternoon exploring Sultanahmet Square, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
.Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square, also referred to as the Hippodrome, holds a central position within Istanbul’s Historical Peninsula. Positioned just a short walk away from the Sultanahmet tram station, this square acts as a portal to the city’s most enchanting focal points, which include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Ibrahim Pasa Palace. In addition to these remarkable architectural marvels, Sultanahmet Square is bordered by hotels, dining options, and diverse venues dedicated to leisure and entertainment.
. Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, alternatively known as Ayasofya in Turkish and Sancta Sophia in Latin, stands as a significant Byzantine structure located in Istanbul, celebrated as one of the world’s remarkable landmarks. Originally erected as a Christian church in the 6th century CE (532–537) under the guidance of the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, it has undergone various transitions, serving as a mosque, a museum, and returning to its role as a mosque once more. This building stands as a testament to the evolving religious dynamics that have shaped the region throughout centuries. Its architectural features proudly display both Islamic minarets and inscriptions, alongside lavish mosaics that pay homage to its Christian legacy.
. Blue Mosque
Erected between 1609 and 1616, this impressive mosque proudly showcases six minarets. The intriguing epithet “Blue Mosque” prompts a closer look at its origins. Two primary stories emerge: the more prevalent narrative suggests that the interior is adorned with İznik tiles, skillfully painted in various shades of blue. The alternative account recounts an anecdote from years gone by, wherein seafarers plying the Marmara Sea observed the mosque from its waters, noting how the hues of the sea were mirrored in the mosque’s façade.
. Topkapi Palace.
Perched atop the most prominent hill in Istanbul, Topkapi Palace stands as a defining symbol of the city. Exuding opulence, luxury, and a profound historical legacy, it extends an invitation to visitors to intimately acquaint themselves with the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire.
Dating back to 1461 and commissioned by Mehmet the Conqueror, the palace maintained its status as both a symbolic and political hub of the Ottoman Empire until Sultan Abdülmecid I relocated the imperial residence to Dolmabahçe Palace in 1853. Over the course of four centuries in between, it served as the dwelling for 22 distinct Sultans and their families.
Following the Ottoman Empire’s decline and the establishment of the Turkish Republic in 1924, the palace underwent a transformation into a museum, cementing its position as an indispensable destination for all explorers of Istanbul. Comprised of four distinct courtyards, the palace boasts a diverse array of exhibitions encompassing treasures, weaponry, timepieces, kaftans, portraits, and venerated relics of prophets.
. Enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner.
“Indulge in 38 Delectable Turkish Dishes for an Immediate Culinary Delight (2023)!”
Humanity owes its existence to a divine creator, while the intricate tapestry of Turkey’s culture has been woven by human hands. From this nation springs forth a culinary tradition so enticing that indulgence transcends any notion of wrongdoing. Bursting with flavors and opulence, the essence of Turkish cuisine lies not in overpowering spiciness but in its ability to grace menus worldwide. Rooted in the historical heritage of Ottoman culinary mastery, the traditional Turkish gastronomic spectrum reaches far beyond its renowned skewered meats, offering an array of diverse tastes. Whether indulging in main courses, desserts, appetizers, or beverages, Turkish culinary creations promise to astound taste buds, evoking not just wonder but an insatiable desire for more.
Peering beyond the realms of familiar koftas, kebabs, and doners, Turkish cuisine unfurls a realm of flavors waiting to be embraced. While the pronunciation of dish names may pose a challenge, their flavors are certain to enchant. From the vast canvas of Turkish culinary excellence, we present an all-inclusive menu tailored to cater to every palate. Turkish cuisine encompasses more than its celebrated dishes; it extends an invitation to embark on a culinary voyage that’s sure to be savored.
38 Delightful Turkish Culinary Delights
Embark on a journey through an assortment of the finest Turkish gastronomic treasures, poised to captivate even the most devoted food connoisseurs. Transform your Turkish getaway into an exceptional culinary odyssey by savoring these irresistible pleasures. Explore the curated list to catch a glimpse of the rich tapestry of traditional Turkish cuisine that lies in wait, creating the perfect backdrop for a tranquil café escape where you can fully indulge in these exquisite offerings.
. Mantı: Mini Ravioli
.Köfte: Turk’s Meatballs
.Lahmacun: Turkish Style Pizza
.Menemen: Turkish Egg Delicacy
.Şiş Kebap: Turkish Seekh Kebab
.Döner: Turkish Sub
.İskender Kebab: Strips Of Lamb
.Corba: Turkish Soup
.Kuzu Tandir: Lamb Delicacy
.Pide: Turkish Patty
.Meze: Dish With A Fish
.Çiğ Köfte: Spicy Balls
.Pilav (Pilaf): Turkish Pulao
.Yaprak Sarma: A Healthy Snack
.Dolma: Vegetarian Delicacy
.İmam Bayıldı: A Spicy Delight
.Borek: Spinach Or Meat Puffs
.Durum: Non-Veg Wrap
.Kumpir: Must-Have Snack
.Balik Ekm.ek: Fish Sandwich
.Simit: Turkish Pretzel
.Kunefe: Most Famous Dessert
.Baklava: Pastries
.Lokum: Yummy Jellies
.Halva: Unique Halwa
.Mozzaik Pasta: Chocolate Cake
.Traditional Dessert
.Turkish Tea & Coffee: A Delightful Beverage
.Kayısı Tatlısı: Dried Apricots
.Mercimek Köftesi: Delicious Koftas
.Haydari: Turkish Dip
.Tursu Suyu: Refreshing Juice
.Kahvalti: Turkish Breakfast
.Kazan Dibi: Burnt Dessert
.Hunkar Begendi: Dish Of The Royals
.Islak Burgers: Wet Hamburgers
.Salep: An Orchid Drink
.Yogurtlu Kebab: Tomatoes, Herbs & Yogurt!
Day 2: Istanbul – Bosphorus Cruise and Grand Bazaar
Embarking on the Bosphorus Cruise is a prime way to explore and appreciate the marvels that Istanbul has to offer. This cruise excursion takes you on a route graced by panoramic views of notable Istanbul landmarks, encompassing the Dolmabahce Palace, Galata Tower, Topkapi Palace, and the Rumeli Fortress.
. Visit the Grand Bazaar for shopping and experiencing the bustling atmosphere
The Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı) in Istanbul stands out as a renowned global shopping destination, covering a sprawling area of 30,700 square meters and holding the title of the world’s largest enclosed bazaar. Once you step within its borders, you’ll meander through its network of 64 streets and smaller alleys, collectively housing around 4,000 shops. The bazaar resembles a compact city, offering not just shops but also a mosque, post office, cafes, banks, and even a police station.
Preserving fading trades and their unique cultural heritage, the Grand Bazaar is an emblem of the past. It holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest and largest bazaar, showcasing an incredibly diverse array of products. Boasting over 3,000 shops and attracting approximately 400,000 visitors, the bazaar’s allure is irresistible. During the time of the Ottoman Empire, the Grand Bazaar served as a hub for a variety of jewelry and exquisite hand-woven textiles from across the country, catering to enthusiasts of traditional fabrics and authentic jewelry.
Oktay Ekinci, former President of the Chamber of Architects, emphasizes that a visit to the Grand Bazaar extends beyond mere exploration of a historic and enigmatic location. It encompasses the charm derived from ancient market traditions, interwoven with the warmth of human interaction and even a sense of trust. When in Istanbul, a trip to the Grand Bazaar is a fundamental experience. For those seeking guidance to navigate this expansive space, guided tours are readily available, offering assistance in finding desired items, mastering the art of bargaining, delving into its history, and organizing transportation.
. Explore the Spice Bazaar and sample Turkish sweets.
he shop within the Spice Bazaar is undeniably exceptional. Their collection comprises an impressive variety of items, such as Turkish coffee, halva, spices, teas, and more, all thoughtfully vacuum-sealed. We were pleasantly taken aback to discover that we could effortlessly transport our purchases back to Australia. The staff, with a special mention of Alper Kesici, displayed remarkable friendliness and adaptability. Notably, there was no hint of pressure to buy; rather, their assistance was incredibly valuable without being overwhelming. We deeply appreciate the delightful encounter and the remarkable price
. Evening at leisure.
Turkey stands as a sought-after destination, capturing the attention of travelers worldwide due to its captivating fusion of culture, cuisine, and geography. Whether you yearn for sun-soaked relaxation, vibrant strolls through Istanbul’s bustling streets, exhilarating mountain skiing, or immersive explorations of charming cities, the 10-day leisure package tailored for Turkey presents exactly the experience you desire.
Day1
Freedom To Explore Istanbul At Leisure
Day 2
Guided Tour of Istanbul Old City
Day 3
Discover Gallipoli Battlefields on Monday
Day 4
Guided tour of Troy and Acropolis of Pergamon
Day 5
Dive into the history of Ephesus, Kusadasi
Day 6
Glimpse Of the Beauty At Pamukkale, Hierapolis
Day 7
Drive Through Silk Road, Konya
Day 8
Explore Cappadocia, Goreme, Underground City on Saturday
Day 9
Explore Ihlara Valley on Sunday
Day 10
Flight From Cappadocia to Istanbul
Day 3 Istanbul – Modern Districts
. Taksim Square (Turkish: Taksim Meydanı, IPA: [ˈtaksim ˈmejdanɯ]), situated in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district on the European side of Turkey, serves as a prominent focal point for both tourists and those seeking leisure. It has gained renown for its diverse array of restaurants, shops, and hotels. This square is recognized as the pulsating center of modern Istanbul and hosts the central station of the Istanbul Metro network. Of particular significance, Taksim Square is also home to the Republic Monument (Turkish: Cumhuriyet Anıtı), an artistic creation crafted by Pietro Canonica and unveiled in 1928. This monument stands as a tribute to the 5th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey’s establishment in 1923, following the Turkish War of Independence.
The square is surrounded by noteworthy landmarks, bordered by The Marmara Hotel to the south, the Atatürk Cultural Centre to the east, Gezi Park to the north, and Taksim Mosque to the west. Numerous significant thoroughfares intersect at this square, including Gümüşsuyu Caddesi, Cumhuriyet Caddesi, Tarlabaşı Bulvarı, İstiklal Caddesi, and Sıraselviler Caddes
.Explore the contemporary Istanbul Museum of Modern Art
Istanbul Modern, Turkey’s pioneering museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, functions as a conduit for the global sharing and dissemination of our country’s artistic heritage. Nestled in Istanbul, it acts as a focal point that brings together artistic creations from various corners of the world.
Guided by an unwavering commitment to nurturing a diverse range of artistic expressions, the museum takes on roles encompassing collecting, preserving, exhibiting, researching, and documenting artworks. Its overarching mission extends to enhancing art accessibility through interdisciplinary exhibitions, educational programs, and events. Moreover, it actively supports artists in their creative pursuits and fosters international collaborations.
An ingrained ethos of inclusivity and creativity serves as the foundation for the museum’s endeavors in fostering a sustainable art ecosystem. It fosters a discourse with modern and contemporary art that caters to audiences spanning different ages and backgrounds, thereby promoting collective introspection and exploration.
The museum’s globally oriented programs leverage the potential of technological advancements to elevate the interaction between artists and their audiences. Through these initiatives, it delivers a multi-dimensional museum experience that captivates visitors on multiple levels.
. Enjoy a Turkish coffee in a local café.
In the 16th century, within the context of the Ottoman Empire, Turkish coffee gradually rose to prominence in social practices. Despite the growth of Western coffee chains in Istanbul, the tradition of Turkish coffee continues to thrive, especially among the younger population.
Day4: Cappadocia – Land of Fairy Chimneys
.Cappadocia, an historic district located in east-central Anatolia, occupies a rugged plateau to the north of the Taurus Mountains, situated at the core of present-day Turkey. The area’s geographical boundaries have undergone shifts throughout various historical epochs. The distinctive topography of Cappadocia features expansive volcanic rock formations that have been shaped by erosion into structures such as towers, cones, valleys, and caves. Across the landscape, one can discover rock-carved churches and underground tunnel complexes originating from the Byzantine and Islamic periods.
The traces of early human settlement in Cappadocia are evident in the Neolithic pottery and tools unearthed in the region. Within the contemporary town of Kültepe, archaeological excavations have unveiled the remnants of the Hittite-Assyrian city of Kanesh, dating back to the 3rd millennium BCE. Among the oldest written records uncovered in Turkey, the numerous clay tablets extracted from the remains of an Assyrian merchant colony at Kanesh offer valuable insights into ancient times.
. Take a hot air balloon ride over the unique rock formations at sunrise (optional).
Embark on a unique journey through Turkey’s Cappadocia with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride! Rise above exceptional sites like the fairy chimneys of Monks Valley, the distinct animal rock formations of Devrent Valley, the iconic domed churches, and picturesque towns such as Mustafapasa, all from an awe-inspiring aerial perspective. Transportation logistics are made effortless with convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs using luxurious Mercedes Benz vehicles. Upon reaching the launch site, indulge in a breakfast spread featuring delightful snacks and your choice of tea or coffee.
During your one-hour hot air balloon adventure, you’ll be captivated by Cappadocia’s beauty from lofty heights, taking in its prominent landmarks from an entirely new vantage point. Upon landing, commemorate the conclusion of your escapade with a celebratory glass of champagne, a fitting toast to an extraordinary experience in Cappadocia. If you find yourself in the region, this is an opportunity that holds immense value and simply cannot be overlooked.
. Explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum and the Uchisar Castle.
Experience the captivating allure of the Turkish countryside as you embark on a comprehensive full-day exploration of Cappadocia in the delightful company of a small group. Your adventure kicks off at the renowned Open Air Museum in Goreme, where you’ll be entranced by the sight of ancient Christian churches adorned with depictions of biblical narratives. Continuing to Pigeon Valley, you’ll encounter whimsical dwellings crafted for these cherished birds, while your journey also encompasses stops at Monk’s Valley and the grand Uchisar Castle. Bringing your excursion to a perfect close, you’ll visit the authentic village of Avanos, providing an enchanting backdrop for exploring and admiring local pottery.
. Overnight stay in a cave hotel.
The intention behind establishing subterranean cities was to provide protection against external invasions, allowing sizable communities to thrive in complete secrecy. In the 14th century, these underground caves acted as a sanctuary for Christians, offering a safe haven from the Mongolian menace during the campaigns led by Timur.
Day 5: Cappadocia – Underground Cities and Hiking
. Discover the underground city of Kaymakli or Derinkuyu.
Both underground cities present captivating experiences, yet if you’re contemplating a visit to only one, we strongly suggest immersing yourself in the marvels of the Kaymakli Underground City.
The rationale behind this recommendation is grounded in the serene and more personal ambiance that Kaymakli Underground City offers. Diverging from the well-trodden red and green tour paths, it is exclusively featured in the blue tour itinerary, ensuring a smaller group setting. Furthermore, it boasts the distinction of being the oldest underground city in the region. While it may not match the popularity of Derinkuyu Underground City due to its smaller dimensions, Kaymakli compensates by allowing explorations through a labyrinth of passages and tunnels, magnifying the thrill of adventure.
However, if claustrophobia is a concern or your time in Cappadocia is limited, selecting Derinkuyu might prove more suitable. Particularly relevant as it’s part of the Green Tour, this choice enables you to encompass other iconic regional attractions within a single day. As the largest underground city in the vicinity, Derinkuyu features wider passages, offering a somewhat more comfortable experience for individuals who contend with claustrophobia.
. Enjoy a scenic hike through the Love Valley or Rose Valley.
Certainly one of the most celebrated valleys in Cappadocia, the Love Valley commands considerable attention. Many tours throughout Cappadocia feature excursions to this captivating valley. Choosing a guided tour might take you to these captivating fairy chimneys, offering the opportunity to explore other crucial valleys such as Rose Valley and Pigeon Valley.
. Visit local handicraft workshops
Explore the unique art of pottery-making in Cappadocia, a tradition deeply rooted in the Hittite era. Join a 2.5-hour adventure to Avanos, the hub of the region’s crafting industry. Immerse yourself in a ceramics workshop, witnessing skilled artisans at their craft. Afterwards, embark on your personal pottery-making journey as you mold a jug on the spinning pottery wheel—an exclusive memento to bring back home with you.
Day 6: Pamukkale – Cotton Castle
.Drive or fly to Pamukkale.
Anticipatedly, air travel emerges as the most expedient means of transportation throughout Turkey. Convenient direct flights operate between Istanbul, departing from either Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), and arriving at Denizli Çardak Airport (DNZ), which conveniently serves as the nearest airport to Pamukkale. The travel time from Denizli Çardak Airport to the city usually spans around an hour.
. Explore the surreal terraces of white mineral-rich deposits.
The phrase ‘Cotton Castle’ is a literal translation from Turkish. In Turkish, ‘Pamuk’ translates to cotton, and ‘Kale’ means castle. The name Pamukkale was chosen due to its striking resemblance to a castle made of cotton. The stark white color of the rocks and the flowing white waterfalls collectively craft an optical illusion reminiscent of snow-covered cotton cushions.
. Relax in the thermal waters of Hierapolis ancient pool.
95-212 Degrees Fahrenheit
In the past, Pamukkale held its position as one of Turkey’s most celebrated thermal pools, functioning as an authentic spa dating back to the 2nd century BC. The water retains its inherent warmth all year round. Encompassing the terraces, an array of seventeen hot springs can be found, exhibiting temperatures that range from 35 to 100 degrees Celsius (95-212 degrees Fahrenheit).
Day 7: Ephesus and Kusadasi
.Visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean.
phesus, an ancient port city, showcases remarkably well-preserved ruins located in modern-day Turkey. In its prime, this city held significant prominence as a leading Greek urban center and a pivotal trading nexus within the Mediterranean region. Throughout its historical journey, Ephesus withstood various attacks and underwent multiple transitions of power, changing hands among different conquerors.
.Explore the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis.
Recognized as an architectural marvel, the Library of Celsus stands as an impressive testament and remains one of the scarce existing examples of grand libraries from the ancient world within the Roman Empire. This exceptional edifice held the distinction of being the third-largest library in the Greco-Roman domain, surpassed in scale solely by the libraries of Alexandria and Pergamum. Scholars estimate that the library accommodated around 12,000 scrolls.
. Day 8: Bodrum – Turquoise Coast
. Drive to Bodrum.
Navigating through Bodrum by car is generally a pleasant experience, thanks to its well-maintained and clearly marked roads. However, it’s important to be aware that local drivers have a reputation for not always following all traffic rules. Therefore, driving defensively is the best approach to ensure a smooth journey.
. Explore Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
Located within Bodrum Castle, the ‘Museum of Underwater Archaeology’ stands as a distinguished institution in the field of underwater archaeology, globally recognized for its importance. It holds a prominent position among the top attractions to explore in Bodrum. With an impressive collection spread across 14 exhibition halls, the ‘Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum’ showcases the most extensive assortment of Eastern Mediterranean amphorae worldwide. Notably, the museum also features remarkable shipwrecks, including Yassıada, Şeytan Deresi (Devil Creek), and Serçe Harbor (Byzantine Wreck).
Of particular significance is the exhibition of the world’s oldest shipwreck, presented within the ‘Serçe Harbor Glass Wreck Hall.’ This vessel, which sank in 1025, is displayed in its entirety. The shipwreck yielded a remarkable three tons of both shattered and intact glass materials. Additionally, the museum takes pride in hosting the world’s largest ‘Glass Collection of Islamic Cultural Heritage,’ further enriching its offerings.
Day 9: Antalya – Gateway to the Turkish Riviera
.Explore the old town, Kaleici, with its narrow streets and Ottoman-era architecture.
Nestled at the heart of Antalya, the Old Town of Kaleici stands as a historic enclave, captivating a diverse array of tourists. Revered for its Ottoman architectural elegance, intricate winding streets, and authentic mosques, it also exudes a vibrant energy with its profusion of eateries, cafés, and bars that host live entertainment. Visitors have the opportunity to delve into the district’s rich historical heritage, encompassing monuments spanning various eras, thus making it an ideal sanctuary for history enthusiasts and aficionados of classical architecture.
Day 10: Perge and Aspendos
. Visit the ancient city of Perge with its well-preserved ruins.
Perge, an ancient and magnificent city of the Roman Empire, is currently situated in modern-day Antalya.
This remarkable city carries a rich history that echoes the grandeur of bygone civilizations, making it one of the meticulously conserved ancient cities in Asia Minor.
Come along as we explore the historical backdrop of Perge’s ancient city, its captivating ruins, details about admission fees, and its operational hours.
. Explore the ancient theater of Aspendos.
According to legend, the construction of this theater originated from a competition organized by the ruler of Aspendos. The goal of this competition was to construct a structure that would contribute the most to the city’s prosperity, and the winner would be granted the ruler’s daughter’s hand in marriage as a reward.
Day 11: Caves of Antalya and Turkish Bath
. Explore the Duden Waterfalls and Duden Park.
The Duden Waterfalls are situated at the endpoint of the river that shares their name. This river winds its way through the Taurus Mountains before plunging over a cliff into a valley alongside the Mediterranean Sea. These waterfalls consist of two separate cascades, with the upper section reaching a height of approximately 50 feet (15 meters) and a width of 65 feet (20 meters).
. Visit Karain Cave, one of the oldest human settlements in Turkey.
Historical Overview: The oldest findings of human settlement unearthed within Karain Cave trace back to the early Paleolithic period, around 200,000 years ago. An identifiable fragment of a Homo neanderthalensis skull, recovered from the cave, has been accurately dated to this particular timeframe.
. Experience a traditional Turkish bath (hammam).
Hammams are often crafted from marble and feature an arrangement of an outer warm chamber, a hotter inner chamber, and a cooler outer chamber designed for relaxation after the steam session (although layouts may vary). Istanbul boasts several beautifully designed Ottoman hammams, some of which date back to the 15th and 17th centuries.