Antalya to Istanbul with 3-Night Gulet Cruise

Regarding the Gulet cruise section of the tour: You have the option to choose between the regular group or the 18–39 group on Gulets. Please note that entrance fees are not included, and cruises are non-tour-guided, as our Captain and crew operate them instead. Pickups start around 09:00 am from Olympos (Bayram's Tree Houses and Olympos Junction), with additional pickups from Antalya bus station, central Antalya hotels, and Antalya Airport. Around noon, there is another pickup at Demre bus station before transferring all guests to Demre Cayagzi Harbor. Here, we check in on the gulet, give a short cruise briefing, and enjoy lunch on board. Our first stop is the Sunken City, a 2,400-year-old Lycian town partly submerged after earthquakes. Its harbor walls, stairways, and foundations can still be seen beneath the turquoise waters. We then visit Kalekoy (Simena), a small village with fewer than 50 houses, accessible only by boat or on foot. Lycian rock tombs line the shore, and a short climb leads to Simena Castle with spectacular views. Don’t miss the village’s famous homemade ice cream, especially fig and peach. In the late afternoon, we anchor at Gokkaya Bay, a peaceful spot for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on deck. Optional water sports are available, and dinner will be served on board. Those who wish can head to Smugglers Inn Bar, a rustic open-air venue on a nearby island with music under the stars. Or, simply enjoy a quiet night aboard.

Today, we will cruise to Limanagzi Bay, a peaceful spot with crystal-clear waters and lush scenery. There are also beachside restaurants, making it the perfect place to swim and relax. We then continue to Kas, a historic town shaped by Lycian, Roman, and Ottoman influences. Once a fishing village, it is now a charming small town with a lively harbor, ancient marble streets, boutique shops, and beaches. Kas is especially known for its artisan jewelry.

Afterward, we enjoy lunch at Hidayet Bay before anchoring overnight at Aquarium Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and natural beauty, a perfect place for an evening dip and a refreshing swim the next morning.

Wake up to the beautiful blue waters of Butterfly Valley, one of the most stunning natural wonders on the coast. The valley is named after the rare Jersey Tiger butterfly and is nestled between towering cliffs. Enjoy a swim in the clear sea or take a hike to a hidden waterfall —a great way to start the day.

From here, we go to the famous Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz. The lagoon's calm, turquoise waters and white sandbar have made it a Turkish coastal icon. You can swim, relax or soak up the scenery there.

In the evening, we anchor at St. Nicholas Island (Gemiler Island), exploring ancient Christian ruins and chapels. Climb to Sunset Point for panoramic views as the sun sets over the sea.

Your final day on board will be relaxed and easygoing. After breakfast at Tarzan’s Bay and a last swim stop at Samanlik, the gulet will cruise into Fethiye Harbour around 1:00–2:00 p.m. After lunch, you’ll disembark, say farewell to your crew and fellow travelers, and continue your journey. From here, guests will transfer to their hotels in Fethiye, marking the end of the gulet cruise. Then, for the rest of the day, you will have time for leisure.

Today, we will continue to visit the Saklikent Gorge Canyon. The gorge is one of the longest and most impressive in Turkey. Cold water flows into the canyon, while the imposing mountains create a spectacular atmosphere. You can walk into the gorge and uncover its secrets during your exploration. If you're looking for an exciting experience, consider trying river tubing in the refreshing waters of the canyon.

Additionally, if you are interested, you can swim in the cold water of the canyon to refresh yourself. We will then continue to Pamukkale, where we will be staying overnight. Saklikent Gorge Canyon

Today, we are scheduled to visit Pamukkale, also known as the "cotton castle" in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site renowned for its hot springs and travertine terraces formed by carbonate minerals deposited by flowing water. Visitors have the opportunity to indulge in the rejuvenating experience of bathing in its pools or explore the distinctive natural landscape.

Following our visit to Pamukkale, we will proceed to Cappadocia, where we will have the chance to immerse ourselves in the breathtaking Turkish scenery and traverse through charming small towns and villages. Upon our arrival, we will complete the check-in process at the hotel and have some leisure time to unwind before embarking on our exploration of Cappadocia the following day.

Get ready for an early start, as we have the option to enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed morning, you can start your day with a leisurely breakfast. We will embark on a journey to explore the UNESCO World Heritagelisted Goreme and visit significant landmarks, including the Goreme Museum, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, and Cavusin. In the afternoon, we will have the opportunity to visit local handicraft manufacturers and gain insight into traditional art forms. Additionally, you are invited to attend an optional Turkish night event this evening, providing an opportunity for cultural immersion and entertainment.

In the morning, we will explore Derinkuyu Underground City, an extraordinary subterranean complex encompassing a church, wells, food stores, and stables, all situated 60 meters below ground. Next, we will continue our journey to Salt Lake, or Tuz Golu, a white/pink (depending on the time of year) salt lake that you may have seen on Instagram posts; situated in central Turkey it is renowned for its vast salt deposits and unique ecosystems. It is an essential habitat for various bird species, particularly during migration..

The lake's striking white landscape and pink hues from salt-loving microorganisms make it a popular spot for photography and tourism. Following this visit, we will proceed to Istanbul, with an expected late evening arrival.

Breakfast and check out. Sadly, it's the end of the tour. Today is the time to say farewell to your new friends with lifetime memories.