Our Turkey private tours explore the best preserved sites and ancient cities

Turkey Private Tours: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus & More

Our expert-led Turkey private tours explore the best-preserved ancient cities and cultural landscapes of the region. Whether you want to follow the historical footsteps of early civilizations or design a custom family vacation, every itinerary is tailored entirely to your personal travel pace. You will experience exclusive access to major archaeological sites with a licensed specialist guide, creating a seamless and deeply authentic journey.

 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Turkey private tour with Archaeologist Aykut

From start to finish, my custom journey was perfectly designed. The flexible pace allowed me to dive deep into sites like Ephesus, Cappadocia, and Istanbul without feeling rushed. I highly recommend these custom turs to anyone seeking a meaningful travel experience with Archaeologist Aykut.” Dr. Julian M. (Princeton University)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Discovering the highlights of Turkey

“Exploring the ancient history of Troy with Aykut was a dream come true. Aykut doesn’t just show you stones; he tells the story of the civilizations that lived there. His explanations on ancient sites were fascinating. He made the ancient history of Turkey easy to understand and deeply engaging. We recommend his private Turkey tour to anyone seeking a memorable travel experience.” — Sarah & David L., Canada

Hagia Sophia dome during Turkey Private Tours

Highlights of our Turkey Private Tours with Archaeologist Aykut 

A 14-Day Journey Through the Cradle of Civilization

   (Istanbul, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Hierapolis, Pamukkale, Cappadocia)

Embark on the ultimate Turkish heritage journey, a curated 14-day odyssey through the “Cradle of Civilization.” This expert-led Highlights of Turkey tour offer the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, Ephesus, and Cappadocia. Explore the vibrant streets of Istanbul, where East meets West, and marvel at ancient wonders like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Discover Ephesus, home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Admire the magnificent ancient sculptures of Aphrodisias and the travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Uncover the ancient city of Perge and the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia with its Cave Churches and Underground Cities. 

You’ll experience the best of Turkey at your own pace, tasting the world famous Turkish cuisine, walking in local markets and exploring hidden gems. Our private Turkey tour offers a truly unforgettable Turkish adventure. 

The itinerary can be customized to suit your interests and available time as a tailor-made Turkey tour. Whether you’re exploring as a couple, family, or small group, your private Turkey tour promises an enriching travel experience.

Turkey Private Tours 

Our Turkey private tours offer the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance, ensuring you explore the country’s rich history and vibrant culture at your own pace. Between discoveries, enjoy meeting with local artisans, tasting traditional Turkish meals and experience the authentic village life. This tour includes highlights of Turkey like Cappadocia and several magnificent sites as well as Unesco World Heritage Sites such as Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, Laodicea, Hierapolis and Göreme Museum.

Detailed Itinerary for Your Turkey Private Tours

DAY 1: Welcome to Istanbul

Arrive at Istanbul Airport, clear customs, and meet your private driver at the exit gates for a comfortable transfer to your boutique hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.

DAY 2: Private Turkey Tour of Istanbul’s Old City

Spend a dedicated day discovering the monumental highlights of Istanbul. We begin in the historic Sultanahmet district to visit the iconic Blue Mosque, famous for its intricate interior tile work. Walk through the ancient Hippodrome to view the Obelisk of Theodosius and the German Fountain, followed by a guided visit to the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Conclude the afternoon exploring the grand courtyards of Topkapi Palace. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 3: Historic Bosphorus Cruise & Vibrant Bazaars

Board a private ferry for a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, capturing views of the palaces dividing Europe and Asia. In the afternoon, dive into the bustling local atmosphere of the historic Spice Market and the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Istanbul. (Meals: B, L)

DAY 4: Across the Dardanelles to Çanakkale

Drive to the historic Gallipoli Peninsula to explore the key World War I battlefields, honoring history at Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, and Chunuk Bair. Afterward, cross the Dardanelles Strait by ferry and check into your hotel in Çanakkale. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 5: Legendary Troy & Pergamon

Explore the layers of ancient Troy, immortalized in Homer’s epics, including the historic city walls and the replica Trojan Horse. Continue south to Pergamon to visit the Asklepion, one of the ancient world’s most famous healing centers. Overnight in Selçuk or Kuşadası. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 6: Ephesus 

Spend the morning exploring the spectacular ruins of Ancient Ephesus, taking time at the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Afterward, visit the nearby Basilica of St. John, a major early Christian pilgrimage site, before browsing the local artifacts at the Ephesus Museum. (Meals: B, L, D)

Da7: Aphrodisias & Pamukkale

Travel to Aphrodisias, an ancient Roman center celebrated for its master sculptors, where you will view the massive ancient stadium and the Tetrapylon. Drive to Pamukkale in the evening. Overnight in Pamukkale. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 8: Travertine Terraces, Hierapolis & Laodicea

Walk along the famous white thermal terraces of Pamukkale before exploring the ancient necropolis and Roman theater of Hierapolis. Next, drive to the biblical site of Laodicea, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation, before heading south to the coastal city of Antalya. (Meals: B, L)

DAY 9: High Mountain Treasures at Termessos

Journey into the rugged Taurus Mountains to visit Termessos, a spectacular ancient fortress city surrounded by pine forests. Walk up to the Hellenistic theater overlooking the deep mountain valleys. Overnight in Antalya. (Meals: B, L)

DAY 10: Antalya Old Town (Kaleiçi) Culture & Food

Enjoy a guided walking tour through the narrow cobblestone streets of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town. Discover Hadrian’s Gate, the historic Roman harbor, and local markets while sampling authentic regional delicacies. Overnight in Antalya. (Meals: B, L)

DAY 11: Pamphylia Capitals & Journey to Konya

Explore the massive ancient stadium and colonnaded streets of Perge, once a thriving Pamphylian capital. In the afternoon, drive through the scenic inland mountains to Konya. Overnight in Konya. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 12: Sufi Mystics, Silk Road Caravans & Underground Cities

Visit the Mevlana Museum in Konya to learn about Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes. Travel along the old Silk Road trade routes to stop at the historic Sultanhanı Caravanserai, then descend into the labyrinthine tunnels of the Saratlı Underground City. Overnight in Cappadocia. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 13: Volcanic Valleys & Rock-Cut Churches of Cappadocia

Spend a full day exploring Cappadocia’s surreal volcanic landscapes. Discover the ancient Christian frescoes at the Göreme Open-Air Museum, walk through the cave dwellings of Zelve Valley, admire the unique fairy chimneys in Paşabağı, and catch the sunset views from Uçhisar Castle. (Meals: B, L, D)

DAY 14: Final Departure

Transfer comfortably to the airport for your domestic flight connection back to Istanbul, concluding your customized Turkey private tours program. (Meals: B)

🏛️ 10‑Day Private Tour of Turkey

What is included in the tour:

  • Thirteen nights’ accommodation in best available 4- and 5-star hotels
  • Meals indicated in the itinerary
  • Daily breakfast at hotels
  • Arrival and departure group airport transfers with driver
  • Air conditioned transportation with driver
  • Archaeologist and private licensed professional english speaking tour guide
  • Admission fees to sites and museums
  • Sightseeing tours as per the itinerary
  • Local taxes and service charges

What is not included in the tour:

  • International and domestic flight tickets, Turkish visa fees (if applicable), Personal expenses, optional gratuities to your guide and driver, Travel insurance, Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (flight delays, natural disasters, etc.).

https://goturkiye.com/Official Travel Guide of Türkiye

  • Turkey private tours by local Archaeologist in Turkey