- Start: Istanbul, Turkey
- End: Fethiye, Turkey
- 12 day 11 night
12-Day Turkey Tour: Culture, Coastline & Cruise
Discover Turkey like never before with a 12-day journey that blends deep history with unforgettable adventure.
Start in Istanbul, where ancient meets vibrant. Explore world-famous landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the buzzing Grand Bazaar. Then cruise the Bosphorus, soaking up views that have shaped empires.
Head south to the Gallipoli battlefields, then walk through time in the ruins of Troy and Pergamon, where myth and history collide.
From the coastal gem of Fethiye, board a traditional gulet for a 4-day Blue Cruise. Sail turquoise waters, swim in secluded coves, and explore highlights like the Blue Lagoon, St. Nicholas Island, and the mysterious sunken city of Kekova.
Feeling bold? Go paragliding, scuba diving, hike Butterfly Valley, or wander the eerie ghost town of Kayakoy. Or just relax on deck and take it all in.
This tour isn’t just a getaway—it’s a full-on experience. History, nature, culture, and freedom on the water.
Ready to explore Turkey’s best by land and sea? Join us.
Tour Program
Touch down in Turkey and get a warm welcome at the airport before heading to your hotel. After check-in, you’re free to relax or explore until 7:00 PM, when you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers in the lobby.
The evening kicks off with a stroll through Taksim Square and down the lively Istiklal Street, riding the historic underground tram—the second-oldest metro line in the world. Snap photos by the Galata Tower and soak in the buzz of Istanbul at night.
Then it’s time for an unforgettable evening at Cicek Pasajı (Flower Passage)—a vibrant 19th-century arcade built on the ruins of the old Naum Theatre. Once filled with flower stalls, today it’s alive with music, food, and stories.
Dive into a table full of traditional Turkish mezes, sizzling kebabs, and rich desserts, all paired with a few rounds of Raki. With street musicians playing and the atmosphere buzzing, this is your first taste of the magic Turkey has to offer.
Cap off the night with drinks and laughs at a local bar as the group gets to know each other.
Sights: Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, Galata Tower, Flower Passage
Highlights: Evening stroll, iconic landmarks, traditional Turkish dinner, live music, and nightlife
Overnight: Istanbul
After breakfast, set out for a full day exploring Istanbul’s historic heart. This is where the city’s soul lives—layered with centuries of empire, faith, and culture.
Your guided walking tour will take you to some of the city’s most iconic sites:
Hagia Sophia – Once a church, then a mosque, now a symbol of Istanbul’s rich past.
Blue Mosque – Famous for its six minarets and stunning blue tilework.
Hippodrome of Constantinople – Once the center of Byzantine public life, echoing with history.
Grand Bazaar – A maze of shops, scents, and colors—one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
Spice Bazaar – A sensory feast of exotic spices, teas, and sweets.
We’ll travel by tram and on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—you’ll be covering a lot of ground, literally and historically.
In the evening, unwind with a Bosphorus cruise. As the sun sets, take in the skyline of domes, minarets, and palaces while your guide shares stories about this legendary waterway. It’s also a perfect moment to relax and connect with your fellow travelers.
Sights: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar, Old City, Spice Bazaar
Highlights: Walking tour of the historic peninsula, Bosphorus cruise at sunset
Included Fees: Hagia Sophia – €25 (covered with museum card)
Overnight: Istanbul
Today, we head to the Gallipoli Peninsula, where history runs deep and emotions run high. It was here, beginning on 25 April 1915, that one of World War I’s most brutal and heroic campaigns unfolded—lasting over eight months and leaving a lasting legacy on both Turkish and ANZAC nations.
With powerful storytelling from your guide, you’ll walk the ground where bullets once flew and now birds soar. You’ll visit key sites from the campaign:
ANZAC Cove – The landing site of the Australian and New Zealand troops.
ANZAC Commemorative Site – A moving memorial that draws thousands each year.
Lone Pine – Site of intense fighting during the August Offensive.
Chunuk Bair – A high point seized by New Zealand troops, and a turning point in the campaign.
The Nek – Site of a tragic and iconic charge, immortalized in Peter Weir’s Gallipoli film.
You’ll also visit Bigali Village, where locals still live near the former headquarters of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, a key figure in the defense of Gallipoli and the future founder of modern Turkey.
Sights: ANZAC Cove, Chunuk Bair, Lone Pine, The Nek, Bigali Village
Highlights: Guided battlefield tour, historical insight, local encounter at Mustafa Kemal’s HQ
Included Fees: Gallipoli entrance – 100 TL (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Canakkale
Start your morning walking through Troy, the city of legends and epic battles. Explore the ruins where history meets Homeric myth:
The iconic Trojan Horse replica
Sacrificial Altars
3,700-year-old city walls
Houses of Troy I – some of the oldest known domestic structures in the region
From there, we hit the road to Pergamon, once a powerful Greek kingdom and a center of ancient science and culture. This hilltop site delivers both epic ruins and sweeping views.
You’ll visit:
Temple of Athena – once the spiritual heart of the city
Acropolis – commanding views and even grander ruins
Ancient Library of Pergamum – once rivaled Alexandria’s
Altar of Zeus – described as one of the wonders of the ancient world
Lower Agora and Gymnasium – built into the steep hillside in terraced levels
Hellenistic Theater – the steepest ancient theater in the world
Temple of Dionysus – honoring the god of wine, theater, and celebration
After a day of exploring two legendary sites, we’ll head to the Ephesus region. Once checked into your Kusadasi hotel, the evening is yours to unwind.
Sights: Troy (Trojan Horse, city walls), Pergamon (Acropolis, Temple of Athena, Altar of Zeus, more)
Highlights: Walking through ancient Troy, standing in the world’s steepest theater, epic hillside views
Included Fees: Troy – €27, Pergamon – €15 (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Kusadasi
Get ready for an early start and a deep dive into one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world—Ephesus, once a thriving Roman city and now a sprawling open-air museum.
Your guided tour will take you through:
The Temple of Artemis – Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Temple of Hadrian – A remarkably preserved example of Roman architecture
The Library of Celsus – Ephesus’s most iconic structure and a true marvel of antiquity
Dating back to the 10th century BC, Ephesus offers a rare chance to walk streets that emperors, merchants, and philosophers once did.
After the tour, we’ll hit the road and head to the coastal town of Fethiye. Once checked into your hotel, the evening is yours. For dinner, consider a local favorite: Fethiye Fish Market, where you can pick your fresh seafood and have it cooked to order.
Sights: Ephesus (Temple of Artemis, Temple of Hadrian, Library of Celsus)
Highlights: Exploring ancient Ephesus, optional dinner at Fethiye Fish Market
Included Fees: Ephesus – €40 (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Fethiye
After breakfast, store your luggage at the hotel and enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Fethiye—grab a coffee, wander the marina, or shop for last-minute essentials.
Around midday, we’ll board our traditional gulet and set sail from Fethiye Harbour, launching the coastal adventure you’ve been waiting for.
Our first stop: the world-famous Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz)—arguably the most photographed beach on Earth. Crystal-clear water, calm bays, and mountain backdrops make this a dream spot to swim, sunbathe, or try stand-up paddling.
Optional highlight: For those seeking a thrill, tandem paragliding from 2,000 meters above the Blue Lagoon is a must. It’s one of the top spots in the world to fly, and pre-booking is highly recommended.
(Price: €189)
As the day winds down, we’ll anchor at St. Nicholas Island, scattered with ancient ruins and panoramic trails. Hike to the hidden amphitheater, then watch the sunset from the summit—a surreal experience framed by history and sea.
Sights: Fethiye, Blue Lagoon, St. Nicholas Island
Highlights: Blue Lagoon swim, optional paragliding, sunset hike among ruins, stand-up paddling
Included Fees: St. Nicholas Island – €3 (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Gulet (on board)
We’ll start the day sailing to Aquarium Bay, famous for its crystal-clear waters and serene, unspoiled beauty. It’s the perfect place to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on deck with a view that lives up to its name.
Next, we cruise to Hidayet Bay, located in Turkey’s top scuba diving region.
Optional activity: Try an unforgettable scuba diving experience in Kas’s pristine waters, teeming with marine life and underwater ruins.
(Price: €90)
After sunset, we dock in Kas, a charming coastal town rich in Lycian history and full of energy. Stroll its cobbled streets, browse handmade crafts and boutique shops, or take in the ancient ruins of Antiphellos. Then, if you’re up for it—join the group for a Kas night out, with music, drinks, and a lively Mediterranean vibe.
Sights: Aquarium Bay, Hidayet Bay, Kas, Antiphellos ruins
Highlights: Optional scuba diving, exploring Kas, nightlife
Optional Activity: Scuba Diving – €90
Overnight: Gulet (on board)
This morning, we sail over the Sunken City of Kekova—the haunting remains of an ancient Lycian village, partially submerged after a 2nd-century earthquake. Glide over the ruins by boat and see staircases descending into the sea, crumbled walls, and rooftops just beneath the surface.
Next stop: Simena Castle, a hilltop fortress with Byzantine ruins, breathtaking panoramic views, and some of the friendliest villagers you’ll meet. The short hike up is worth every step. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous homemade dried fig ice cream—a local legend in its own right.
We finish the day at Burc Bay, a peaceful, stunning cove perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, or exploring more hidden ruins with a short hike inland.
Sights: Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, Burc Bay
Highlights: Ancient ruins underwater, scenic hike to Simena Castle, paddleboarding in Burc Bay, local ice cream
Included Fees: Simena Castle – €4 (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Gulet (on board)
Start your morning with breakfast at Karemlik Bay, also known as Turtle Bay, where you can literally swim alongside sea turtles in calm, clear waters—an unforgettable experience.
From there, we sail to Demre Port, where the cruise portion pauses for a guided land tour.
Hop on the bus to:
St. Nicholas Church in Demre — the original resting place of the real Saint Nick. Enjoy time to explore and grab lunch in town (lunch not included).
Ancient City of Myra — One of the six major cities of the Lycian League, famous for its Lycian rock tombs carved high into the cliffs and a remarkably preserved Roman theater. This site dates back over 2,500 years and feels like stepping straight into antiquity.
By late afternoon, we’re back on the water and heading to Gokkaya Bay, a secluded paradise surrounded by tiny islands.
The night ends at the legendary Smugglers Inn—a rustic island bar where gulet crews come together for one of the most unique parties on the Turkish coast. Dance under the stars, drink with fellow travelers, and let loose in this unforgettable, off-the-grid location.
Sights: Turtle Bay, Demre, St. Nicholas Church, Myra, Gokkaya Bay, Smugglers Inn
Highlights: Swim with sea turtles, explore ancient Myra, visit St. Nicholas Church, night out on Smugglers Island
Included Fees: St. Nicholas Church – €17, Myra – €13 (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Gulet (on board)
Kick off the day with a hike to the Aperlai ruins, a lesser-known Lycian site that feels like a true archaeological discovery. The trail is relatively flat and scenic, ending in a surreal collection of earthquake-toppled tombs, broken sarcophagi, and untouched ruins scattered across the hillside. It’s remote, raw, and deeply atmospheric.
After the hike, we sail to Heybeli Island, just across from the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis), for a refreshing swim stop in crystal-clear waters.
We’ll then anchor at Firnaz Aquarium Bay, your afternoon and evening base for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck with a drink in hand as the sun sets.
Sights: Aperlai ruins, Heybeli Island, Firnaz Aquarium Bay
Highlights: Hike through lost Lycian ruins, swim breaks in island coves, afternoon of pure relaxation
Included Fees: Aperlai ruins – Free (museum card not required)
Overnight: Gulet (on board)
Wake up to the surreal beauty of Butterfly Valley, a dramatic gorge surrounded by towering 350-meter cliffs. Start your day with breakfast on deck, followed by a swim in the turquoise cove or a hike up to the valley’s hidden waterfall. The valley spans over 86,000 square meters and is home to more than 100 butterfly species, especially during late spring and summer.
Later in the morning, we’ll head to Gemiler Beach and transfer by bus to Kayakoy, also known as the Ghost Town. Once a thriving Greek village, it was abandoned in the 1920s and now stands as an open-air museum of over 500 crumbling stone houses and three roofless churches, all silent reminders of a vanished life. You’ll walk through hauntingly beautiful ruins surrounded by pine forest and rolling hills.
Sights: Butterfly Valley, Gemiler Beach, Kayakoy Village
Highlights: Swimming and hiking in Butterfly Valley, exploring the ghost town of Kayakoy
Included Fees: Kayakoy Village – €3 (covered by museum card)
Overnight: Gulet (on board)
Your final morning aboard the gulet begins at a relaxed pace. After breakfast, enjoy one last swim in the clear, calm waters of Samanlik Bay, soaking in the peace and beauty of Turkey’s stunning coastline.
Around noon, we’ll return to Fethiye Harbor, where it’s time to disembark, say goodbye to your crew, and part ways with the friends you’ve made on this unforgettable journey.
Sights: Samanlik Bay
Highlights: Leisurely swim, final breakfast on deck, farewell at Fethiye Harbor
Overnight: N/A – Tour ends after disembarkation
Photo Gallery
Alaturca Cruise Rental Conditions
Sights Visited on This Tour
Istanbul stands alone as the only city in the world that spans two continents—Europe and Asia. With a rich, ancient history and a vibrant, diverse culture, the city offers an experience like no other.
Marvel at architectural masterpieces such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the sprawling Grand Bazaar. Stroll through lively markets, savor the local cuisine, and soak in breathtaking views along the Bosphorus—a waterway that beautifully divides and connects the city’s dual identities.
Istanbul is where history, culture, and scenery converge into an unforgettable journey.
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616 under Sultan Ahmed I, it is famed for the stunning blue Iznik tiles that adorn its interior.
With its six minarets and grand central dome, the mosque stands as a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Located just opposite the Hagia Sophia, it remains an active place of worship while welcoming visitors from around the world.
The Hippodrome of ConstantinopleThe Hippodrome of Constantinople was the social and sporting heart of the Byzantine Empire, hosting chariot races, public gatherings, and imperial ceremonies. Though the grand arena is long gone, the site still features several important monuments that reflect its storied past.
Key remnants include:
The Serpent Column, a relic from ancient Delphi
The Obelisk of Theodosius, brought from Egypt
The Walled Obelisk, a once-glorious stone structure
These monuments stand as enduring markers of the grandeur of ancient Constantinople, offering a glimpse into a city that was once the center of the Byzantine world.
Anzak Cove Located on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Canakkale, Anzac Cove marks the landing site of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) on 25 April 1915 during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. The cove became a defining symbol of courage, sacrifice, and national identity for both nations.
Today, Anzac Cove serves as a solemn memorial site, drawing thousands of visitors each year, particularly for the ANZAC Day commemorations, honoring those who fought and fell on these shores.
Lone Pine Australian MemorialLocated in Canakkale, Turkey, the Lone Pine Australian Memorial honors the Australian soldiers who fought and died during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. Established in 1920, it stands on the site of some of the campaign’s fiercest battles.
The memorial features:
A substantial stone monument bearing the names of the fallen
Commemorative plaques
A solitary pine tree, symbolizing resilience and remembrance
Each year, particularly on ANZAC Day, the site draws many visitors who come to reflect and pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the ANZAC troops.
Chunuk BairChunuk Bair, located on the Gallipoli Peninsula, was a key strategic point during the Gallipoli Campaign of World War I. In 1915, it became the site of fierce and pivotal battles between the Allied forces, particularly the ANZAC troops, and the Turkish defenders.
Its elevation provided critical views over the Dardanelles, making it highly contested. Today, Chunuk Bair is home to memorials and cemeteries honoring those who fought and died there. It remains a significant place of reflection and remembrance, especially during ANZAC Day commemorations.
TroyLocated near Canakkale, Turkey, Troy is an ancient city steeped in legend and history, famously known as the setting of the Trojan War from Greek mythology and Homer’s Iliad.
The archaeological site reveals multiple layers of ruins, showcasing a continuous history of settlement spanning thousands of years. Key features include:
The imposing ancient city walls
The iconic wooden horse replica
Various ruins and foundations that reveal the city’s complex past
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Troy remains one of Turkey’s most celebrated archaeological landmarks, attracting visitors eager to connect with its mythical and historical significance.
PergamonLocated in modern-day Bergama, Turkey, Pergamon was the ancient capital of the Hellenistic Kingdom of Pergamon, established in the 3rd century BC. The city quickly became a major cultural, political, and intellectual center, famed for its architectural grandeur and scholarly achievements.
Key sites include:
The Acropolis, perched high above the city with sweeping views
The Asklepion, one of the ancient world’s most renowned medical centers
The Altar of Zeus, a monumental and iconic structure
The Library of Pergamon, once rivaling Alexandria as one of the largest libraries in antiquity
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pergamon captivates visitors with its rich history, remarkable ruins, and a tangible sense of its illustrious past.
Ephesus Ancient CityLocated near Selcuk, Turkey, Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, offering an extraordinary window into Greek and Roman civilization. Founded in the 10th century BC, it flourished as a major trade and cultural hub of the ancient world.
Key highlights include:
The Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Library of Celsus, an iconic and intricately designed structure
The Grand Theatre, capable of seating 25,000 spectators
A visit to Ephesus provides deep insight into ancient urban life, architecture, and history, making it an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
SelcukLocated in western Turkey, Selcuk is a historic town best known as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Rich in cultural heritage, Selcuk is home to several significant landmarks:
The House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site
The remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Selcuk Fortress, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes
Selcuk charms visitors with its traditional Turkish architecture, local markets, and welcoming cafes and restaurants. The town is also close to Pamucak Beach and the picturesque village of Sirince, known for its wine and preserved Ottoman-era houses.
With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Selcuk is an ideal base for exploring the region.
FethiyeFethiye, located on Turkey’s southwestern coast, is a picturesque town known for its turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and rich historical heritage. Highlights include the famous Oludeniz Blue Lagoon, the Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs, and a well-preserved Roman theatre.
Its prime location on the Aegean Sea makes Fethiye a popular starting point for:
Exploring the Lycian Way, one of the world’s top long-distance hiking trails
Island-hopping and gulet cruises along the scenic coast
Fethiye’s blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture draws visitors from around the world, making it a must-visit destination on Turkey’s Riviera.
St. Nicholas IslandLocated near Fethiye, Turkey, St. Nicholas Island is famed for its Byzantine ruins, including a church dedicated to St. Nicholas, the historical figure who inspired the legend of Santa Claus.
Visitors can:
Explore ancient homes, chapels, and tombs
Hike scenic trails leading to panoramic viewpoints perfect for sunset watching
Swim in the clear surrounding waters
Accessible only by boat, the island is a popular stop on gulet cruises and day trips, offering a unique mix of history, nature, and relaxation.
Samanlik BayLocated near Fethiye, Samanlik Bay is a serene and scenic cove surrounded by lush pine forests. Its clear, calm waters make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
With its peaceful ambiance and natural beauty, Samanlik Bay is a favored stop for gulet cruises, offering a quiet retreat amid the stunning landscapes of the Turkish coast.
The Blue Lagoon, OludenizLocated near Fethiye, the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz is one of Turkey’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Famous for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, the lagoon offers an idyllic setting for:
Swimming and sunbathing
Snorkeling and water sports
As part of a protected nature reserve, the area preserves its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. For those seeking adventure, paragliding from Babadag Mountain provides spectacular aerial views of the lagoon and coastline—one of the best paragliding spots in the world.
Widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches globally, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit for anyone traveling along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
Located near Fethiye, Butterfly Valley is a stunning natural haven famous for its diverse species of butterflies, especially during the summer months. Encircled by steep cliffs, the valley opens onto a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for swimming and relaxation.
Accessible only by boat or via a steep hiking trail, the valley offers a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a serene, unspoiled landscape along the Turkish coast.
Kayakoy (The Ghost Village)Nestled near Fethiye, Kayakoy, known as the Ghost Village, is an evocative abandoned settlement with deep historical roots. Once a bustling Greek community, the village was deserted following the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in the 1920s.
Today, visitors can wander through over 300 stone houses, chapels, and schools, all standing in silent testimony to a bygone era. Surrounded by hills and olive groves, Kayaköy is not only a window into the past but also a popular hiking and photography destination, offering sweeping views and an atmosphere of poignant beauty.
For those interested in cultural heritage, history, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, Kayakoy delivers an unforgettable journey through time.
KasLocated on Turkey’s southwestern coast, Kas is a captivating seaside town celebrated for its turquoise waters, scenic landscapes, and charming harbour. It strikes a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, drawing travelers who seek both serenity and excitement.
Visitors can enjoy:
Diving and snorkeling, with some of Turkey’s best underwater sites nearby
Hiking trails, including parts of the famed Lycian Way
Exploring ancient Lycian ruins scattered around the area
Kas also offers a vibrant nightlife, with cozy bars, local restaurants, and boutique shops lining its narrow streets. With its laid-back yet lively vibe, beautiful beaches, and cultural richness, Kas remains a must-visit destination on the Turkish Riviera.
Located near Kalkan, Aquarium Bay is a serene and scenic spot known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and exceptional visibility. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring underwater life, it lives up to its name with waters so clear they resemble an actual aquarium.
The bay is a popular stop for gulet cruises, offering a peaceful escape perfect for relaxation, water activities, and soaking up the sun amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Located in southwestern Turkey, Aperlai is an ancient Lycian city that offers a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of history along the Turkish Riviera. The site features:
Traditional Lycian rock-cut tombs
Remnants of houses, temples, and defensive fortifications
Scenic views of the coastline and nearby islands
Set in a peaceful, secluded environment, Aperlai is perfect for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in history while surrounded by nature. Its tranquil setting, combined with the rich archaeological remains, makes it an ideal destination for those exploring off-the-beaten-path sites in Lycia.
Simena Castle (Kalekoy)Located in Kalekoy near Kas, Simena Castle is a remarkable ancient Lycian fortress offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding islands. The castle features well-preserved walls and ruins that reflect a blend of Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine history.
Visitors can:
Climb to the castle’s summit for breathtaking coastal vistas
Explore the ruins of ancient fortifications
Stroll through the quaint village of Kalekoy
Accessible only by boat or by foot, Simena Castle is a favorite for history lovers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a unique cultural and scenic experience.
Sunken City of KekovaOff the coast of Kalekoy, the Sunken City of Kekova is an extraordinary underwater archaeological site, where the remnants of an ancient Lycian city lie submerged due to devastating earthquakes in the 2nd century AD.
Visitors can:
View the submerged ruins of houses, staircases, and walls from boats or kayaks
Admire the natural beauty of the turquoise waters and rugged coastline
Combine their visit with a hike to nearby Simena Castle for a deeper historical perspective
Accessible only by sea, the Sunken City is a protected site, with diving prohibited to preserve its integrity. It’s an ideal destination for history buffs, photographers, and nature lovers, offering a unique blend of ancient mystery and scenic splendor.
Burc BayBurc Bay is a secluded and picturesque cove, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled natural beauty. Tucked away along the Turkish coast, it offers an ideal setting for:
Swimming
Paddleboarding
Relaxing in peaceful surroundings
The bay’s calm, transparent waters and scenic backdrop make it a favored stop for gulet cruises seeking a tranquil retreat and a chance to connect with nature.
Whether you’re floating on a paddleboard or simply soaking in the views, Burc Bay delivers a serene escape from the bustle of busier destinations.
Smugglers InnHidden in the peaceful waters of Gokkaya Bay, Smugglers Inn is an exclusive, off-the-grid bar accessible only by boat—just a 30-minute ride from Demre Harbour. Nestled among lush trees in a secluded cove, this rustic hideaway offers a one-of-a-kind experience for gulet cruise passengers.
At Smugglers Inn, you can:
Unwind with music and drinks
Socialize with fellow travelers in a laid-back, open-air setting
Soak in the natural beauty and serenity, with nothing but the sounds of the sea and the surrounding forest
With no roads or crowds, Smugglers Inn feels like a true escape—perfect for those seeking a night of fun in the middle of nature’s embrace.
St. Nicholas Church, KekovaLocated near Kekova, the St. Nicholas Church is a 5th-century site dedicated to St. Nicholas, the historical figure who inspired the legend of Santa Claus. The church features remnants of impressive frescoes, stonework, and early Christian architectural elements.
Visitors can:
Explore the atmospheric ruins
Admire the artwork and structural remnants
Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding Kekova coastline
This site offers a unique glimpse into the region’s Christian heritage and is a must-visit for those interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
MyraLocated in Antalya province, Myra is an ancient Lycian city celebrated for its archaeological and historical significance. Once a prosperous hub of the Lycian League, Myra is best known for:
Its iconic rock-cut tombs carved into cliff faces
A remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre
The grand Lycian necropolis
Myra also holds religious importance as the home of St. Nicholas, the bishop who inspired the legend of Santa Claus.
Visitors to Demre-Myra can explore these captivating ruins while enjoying the region’s stunning natural scenery. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and anyone curious about Turkey’s rich cultural heritage.
