Capture the best view of beautiful Istanbnul to joi the sunset cruise tour on the Bosphorus.
Explore amazing Istanbul by night with Bosphorus Dinner cruise and cultural.
Istanbul Cruise tour from Bosphorus to Black Sea, Full-Day Cruise on the Bosphorus.
Visit Europe and Asia coast with Istanbul Bosphorus cruise, lunch in the afternoon.
Top Istanbul Bus and Boat is the only tour in Istanbul show you the city with Bus and Boat.
Explore amazing Istanbul with a half-day cruise in morning with Europ and Asian side.
Historical Areas of Istanbul, City of Safranbolu, Hattusha (Bogazkoy): The Hittite Capital, Edirne Selimiye Mosquee, Nemrut Mountain, Xanthos-Letoon, Great Mosque and Hospital of Divrigi, Archaeological Site of Troy, Hierapolis-Pamukkale, Goreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia
Turkey, a country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, has become a favorite destination for many travelers. Whether it’s the stunning architecture of Istanbul, the magical landscapes of Cappadocia, or the ancient ruins of Ephesus, there’s something for everyone in Turkey. But how do you make the most of your trip? The answer may lie in joining a group tour. Here’s why:
The History Travel Travel presents the finest group tours in Turkey, inviting you to explore iconic destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Antalya, Ephesus, Pergamon, Troy, and beyond.
Humanity has added new value to the places it has lived upon, and left behind masterpieces that carry Its culture to ensuing generations. To affirm the values accepted as the common heritage of all humanity, and to promote them and to transfer them to future generations, UNESCO adopted, "The Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage" in its General Conference held in Paris in 1972. Turkey ratified the Convention on 23 May 1982. The World Heritage List Is a list of global sites of cultural and natural heritage considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. UNESCO, which alms to ensure International cooperation In protecting the values that form the common heritage of humanity, takes Into consideration unique values with respect to cultural and natural criteria. At the end of 2008, there were 878 cultural and natural heritage sites from all around the world inscribed in the World Heritage List. These Include 679 cultural/archaeological sites, 174 natural sites and also 25 mixed (cultural/natural) sites. Turkey has 10 properties Inscribed In the UNESCO World Heritage List, and 26 nominated properties are in the Tentative List. This publication is prepared by the Directorate General for Promotion of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. It aims to promote the sites Inscribed In the UNESCO World Heritage List, and raise awareness in transferring Turkey's cultural heritage to future generations. Turkey in World Heritage
For tourists who are interested in history, Turkey is among the most fascinating places to visit. Europe and Asia are separated by the nation. This area was home to numerous civilizations for thousands of years. The Aegean shore was home to Greek cities. Romans built sizable urban areas. Byzantine emperors controlled vital trade routes. The Ottoman sultans constructed marketplaces, palaces, and mosques. These cultures left behind powerful monuments all around the nation. The list of UNESCO sites in Turkey includes many of these locations. These sites safeguard significant cultural heritage. Visitors come to these locations to learn about ancient civilizations and world history. Numerous significant historical locations throughout the nation can be connected through a package like the 7 Days Turkey Tour Package.
Istanbul Old City represent one of the most famous UNESCO sites Turkey offers. Istanbul served as the capital of three powerful empires. Roman rulers controlled the city first. Byzantine emperors ruled the city for centuries. Ottoman sultans later turned the city into an imperial capital. Sultanahmet district contains many of the most famous monuments. Hagia Sophia remains one of the most important historical buildings in the world. The Blue Mosque attracts visitors with its six minarets and large domes. Topkapi Palace shows how Ottoman rulers lived and governed the empire. Visitors also explore the Basilica Cistern. This underground structure once stored water for the ancient city. Stone columns support the large ceiling. Dim lighting creates a mysterious atmosphere inside. Many travelers discover these landmarks during cultural routes such as Istanbul Tour Classics You Can’t Miss which include the major historical monuments of the old city.
Cappadocia shows one of the most unusual landscapes in the world. UNESCO added the region to the heritage list because of its volcanic valleys and rock architecture. Wind and erosion shaped the famous Fairy Chimneys across the valleys. Pasabag Valley shows many of these formations. Love Valley also attracts visitors with tall stone pillars. Early Christian communities carved churches inside the soft volcanic rock. Visitors explore these churches at the Goreme Open Air Museum. Uchisar Castle rises above the region and provides wide views of the valleys. Cappadocia also contains underground cities. Derinkuyu and Kaymakli remain the most famous examples. Local communities once used these cities for protection during invasions. Hot air balloons appear above the valleys every morning. This moment creates one of the most recognizable images of Turkey sightseeing. Travelers often explore the region through routes such as Private 2 Days Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul (Optional Hot Air Balloon) which include valleys, cave churches and underground cities.
Ephesus remains one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean region. The site shows the power and organization of Roman urban life. Visitors enter the city through ancient gates. Marble streets lead through the ruins. The Library of Celsus stands as the most famous monument. Its large facade creates one of the most photographed landmarks in Turkey. The Great Theatre rises above the city. The structure once held more than twenty thousand spectators. Performances and public meetings took place here during Roman times. Several important sites stand near Ephesus. The House of Virgin Mary attracts religious visitors. Pilgrims visit the chapel located on a nearby hill. The Temple of Artemis once stood near the ancient city. Historians listed this temple among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Many travelers include Ephesus in cultural routes such as Private Biblical Seven Churches of Turkey Tour. Travelers who plan to visit many archaeological sites should also know about the Museum Pass Turkey (Muse Card). This card allows entry to many state museums and archaeological parks. Ephesus accepts the pass. Pamukkale, Troy and several Istanbul museums also accept it. The card helps travelers save time and money during cultural trips.
Pamukkale presents one of the most unique natural landscapes in Turkey. White mineral terraces cover the hillside. Visitors often call the site Cotton Castle because of the bright white formations. Thermal waters created these terraces over thousands of years. Small pools form across the surface. The water reflects the sky and surrounding hills. The ancient city Hierapolis stands above the terraces. Roman ruins spread across the plateau. Visitors explore the ancient theatre, baths and temples. The theatre stands on the hillside and overlooks the valley. Cleopatra’s Pool attracts visitors who want to swim in warm mineral water. Ancient columns remain visible inside the pool. Travelers often combine this UNESCO site with other historical destinations through routes such as Private Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul.
Gobeklitepe represents one of the most important archaeological discoveries in modern history. The site changed many ideas about early human civilization. Large stone pillars stand inside circular structures. Carved animals decorate many of the stones. Archaeologists believe these monuments date back more than eleven thousand years. This discovery shows that complex religious structures existed long before large cities developed. Gobeklitepe attracts researchers, historians and travelers interested in ancient cultures. Travelers who want to explore this region often choose routes such as Private Mt. Nemrut & Gobeklitepe Tour.
Troy remains one of the most famous archaeological sites in world history. The site connects strongly with the ancient legend of the Trojan War. Archaeologists discovered several layers of ancient settlements at this location. Visitors walk through ruins that represent different historical periods. A replica Trojan Horse stands near the entrance of the archaeological park. The monument helps visitors imagine the famous story.
Pergamon offers another important UNESCO destination in western Turkey. The ancient city stands on a high hill above modern Bergama. Visitors reach the acropolis by road or cable car. The hillside theatre creates one of the most dramatic views in the ancient world. The Temple of Trajan stands near the top of the acropolis. The Asklepion healing center sits outside the city walls. Ancient doctors once treated patients here. Travel routes such as 4 Days Private Turkey Tour allow visitors to explore Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus and Pamukkale during the same journey.
Which UNESCO Site in Turkey is Best for First-Time Visitors? Istanbul and Cappadocia remain the easiest starting points. Both destinations offer famous landmarks and strong cultural experiences.
Which UNESCO Site in Turkey Shows Ancient Civilizations? Ephesus, Troy and Gobekli Tepe present powerful examples of ancient civilizations in Anatolia.
What is the Newest UNESCO Site in Turkey? Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe recently joined the UNESCO World Heritage list. This addition increased interest in western Anatolia archaeology.
A well planned cultural route transforms a simple holiday into an educational journey through world history. Contact us today to discover the best UNESCO travel routes and private tour programs across Turkey. Plan a journey through the most remarkable cultural heritage sites in Turkey.
Turkey is one of the most interesting destinations for travelers who enjoy history. The country sits between Europe and Asia. Many civilizations lived here for thousands of years. Greeks built cities on the Aegean coast. Romans created large urban centers. Byzantine emperors ruled important trade routes. Ottoman sultans built mosques, palaces and markets. These cultures left strong monuments across the country. Many of these places appear on the UNESCO sites Turkey list. These locations protect important cultural heritage. Travelers visit these places to understand world history and ancient civilizations. A program such as 7 Days Turkey Tour Package can connect many important historical regions across the country. Ephesus, there’s something for everyone in Turkey. But how do you make the most of your trip? The answer may lie in joining a group tour. Here’s why:
The historical areas of Istanbul, which has been the capital of three great empires, were inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.
Topkapi Palace served as the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire, and today it houses the Kasikci (Spoonmaker's) Diamond, which has a global fame. The Palace is, at present, a museum exhibiting unique artifacts from the glorious history of the Ottoman Empire.Yerebatan Sarnici (the Basilica Cistern), which was built in between 527 and 567 in order to provide water to the settlement nearby, is situated within the Archaeological Park. According to Greek mythology, Medusa turned to stone anyone who dared to gaze directly at her. The head of Medusa carved at the column-base can be seen in the shallow waters of the cistern, and it Is one of the most visited attractions in the Park.Hundreds of mansions and timber houses in Zeyrek and Suleymaniye, which form an important part of the historical areas of Istanbul, have managed to survive until today.Istanbul has been a source of inspiration for numerous artists with its history and natural beauties. Countless poems have been written and songs have been composed for Istanbul. Istanbul, which has a fascinating beauty thanks to i.
Original Example Of The Traditional Safranbolu, an Anatolian city that brings history to life through its mosques, market, neighbourhoods, streets and original houses, was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1994. The city is in the Paflagonia region that was described by Homer in his epic poem, The Iliad and its known history dates back to 3000 BC. The city was ruled by the Hittites, the Phryigians, the Lydlans, Persions, Hellenistic Kingdoms (Ponds), Romans (Byzantines), Seljuks, Beyliks of Cobanoglu and Candaroglu, and the Ottomans respectively. Safranbolu's present layout and physical features were established in the 17th and 18th centuries. Safranbolu, which was one of the few cities that remained intact even In the second half of the 19th century, extended in accordance with the changing needs in time in harmony with nature. Safranbolu's economic muscle is reflected in the life of the city, and Safranbolu Houses reveals the city culture In an original manner. The Safranbolu Houses are the building blocks representing the Turkish city culture as Its living reminder in our times. There are about 2000 traditional Turkish houses In the county seat. Out of them, about 800 houses are under legal protection. The houses have plans that reflect the Turkish lifestyle, customs and traditions in a rich spatial arrangement. The houses are modest buildings shaped with an understanding of respect for nature and neighbour. The overhanging extensions of the first floors of Safranbolu houses disturb the unwanted uniformity of all houses. The house windows are specially designed as narrow and tall windows. The timber window frames and sashes feature timber grills called "musabak". Details such as timber ceilings, decorated timber wall surfaces, wrought iron door fittings, locks and keys, malakari (shallow gypsum) decorations applied on timber exteriors, and the quality of masonry work, are Important and demonstrate how aptly they complete the whole. Safranbolu is a must for those who wish to explore a city and breathe In history. Enjoy the splendid architecture and shake hands with the hospitality of Anatolia.
Hattusha: Open-Air Museum.
The Cappadocia, Designed By Nature: Cappadocia, which was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985 on natural and cultural criteria, Is situated at a distance of 14 km from Nevsehir, and it covers a 40 square km area between the county seats of Avanos and Urgup.
Goreme National Park and Cappadocia is a unique design of nature with slopes full of fairy-chimneys, rich water resources at the base of the valley, abundant flora, and numerous rock cut, frescoed churches.
Cappadocia, which was sculpted out of the tuff of the Erclyes and Hasan Mountains through millions of years by sand and water erosion, became the seat of several civilisations, and a silent witness to the cultural history of Anatolia. Cappadocia also covers underground cities. These enchanting and only partially revealed subterranean cities of Cappadocia are believed to have deeper levels awaiting exploration. The most extraordinary underground cities are in the regions of Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, Mazl Ozkonak and Tatlarin. The underground cities, for long periods used as sanctuaries, were recently renovated and made available to visitors.
Visitors to Cappadocia encounter the most select examples of Seljuk and Ottoman art and architecture. The caravanserais of Egri Minare, Alayhan and Sultanhani, the caravanserai of Sarlhan, Tasklnpasa Mosque of Urgup, Sungur Bey and the Alaaddln Mosques of Nigde are among the many buildings worth visiting.To explore this mysterious territory and to witness its harmony of humanity and nature you should also visit Urgup, Uchisar, Avanos, Goreme, Cavusin, Ortahisar, Ihlara Gorge, Sinnassos (Mustafapasa), Soganli Gorge, Zelve Gorge and Guverclnlik Gorge. Capadoccla, which reflects the harmonization of nature and mankind, is waiting for those who would like to discover this mysterious territory and witness the unique design of nature.
The Mosque Where Stones Were Dressed With Love.
The first Turkish building inscribed to UNESCO's World Heritage List, the Great Mosque and Hospital of Divrigi was built in the 13th century by Ahmed Shah and his wife Mellke Turan of the Principality of Mengucek. Designed by the architect Hurrem Shah, of Ahlat, in 1288, the Great Mosque of Divrigi is renowned for Its monumental architecture, its hexagonal dome, and its unique stone carving decorations. The Great Mosque and Hospital has a plain fagade. Its status as a unique masterpiece rests on the merits of the stone carving decorations that adorn the great portal of the Hospital, the northern portal of the Mosque, the western portal of the Mosque and the portal of Shah's dais. Each and every figure In the decoration is a unique marvel of art and architecture, as well as a feat of engineering. Art historians and architects agree that there are no other examples of the three dimensional and Intricate geometric styles and flowing figures of plants. Its portals appear to have borrowed from Baroque, Seljuk and Gothic styles, but nevertheless represent a unique and distinct style of their own. All figures carved on the portals and on the walls were asymmetrical and each square has thousands of stone carved figures. The main characteristic of the designs featured In the portals is their uniqueness: each is distinct from other decorations. For example, the wreath of life used on the portal on the North fagade Is noteworthy since It depicts a totally imaginary plant world that only existed in the imagination of the craftsman. As well as portals, all bases, shafts and capitals of the columns, and the Inner surface of the dome, were decorated a different, distinct and unique style. The Hospital, situated next to the Great Mosque Is, In itself, a masterpiece of stone carving. It shares the splendid unity of the Great Mosque. The Hospital Is a two-storey building with a central courtyard surrounded by porticoes, and designed as a hospital where cures included the soothing sound of flowing water from the fountains. This exciting stone masterpiece shaped with love is waiting for Its visitors.
The Nemrut mountainside with the tumulus containing the tomb of King Antiochus of the Commagene Kingdom and several giant statues was inscribed to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1987. Nemrut Mountain is also known as the highest open-air museum in the world. With its enchanting statues standing ten metres high, and meters long inscriptions and the ancient Commagene sanctuary, it is situated in the Kahta county of Adiyaman province. Nemrut Mountain was one the most majestic place of worship in ancient Anatolia. According to the inscriptions, Antiochus built a monumental tomb, a tumulus of cut stones built over the tomb, and terraces along the three edges of the tumulus. Those terraces are known as the East, West and North Terraces. On the East and West Terraces are giant statues, inscriptions and reliefs. Five statues depict the gods, and, among the deities, the figure of Antiochus. The East and West terraces have five statues of gods, set in the same order on both terraces. The statues made of stone blocks, each weighing 7-8 metric tons, sit on thrones about seven metres above the terrace floor. The heads of the statues have toppled down and are scattered on the terraces. The row of statues starts with a lion and eagle statue. The lion, the king of animals, represents earthly power, and the eagle, herald of the gods, represents heavenly power. The East Terrace contains the Gallery of Gods, the Gallery of Ancestors and the Altar. The West Terrace was built similarly, however it has been far better preserved. The North Terrace was used as a passageway between East and West Terraces, and it was surrounded by a sandstone wall. Behind the stone blocks making the thrones of the statues of East and West Terraces there is a cult inscription of 237 lines, written in Greek letters. The inscription was the will of Antiochus, and contains information about the sanctuary as well as rituals that should be used for practicing the cult. The Nemrut Mountain, with the most majestic panoramas of sunrise and sunset in the world as well as Its giant statues and monumental tomb, is waiting for its visitors.
Xanthos, which was the capital of Lycia between 700 and 300 BC, is known as the largest administrative centre of Lycia during antiquity. Letoon, which was Inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List together with Xanthos in 1988, was one of the most prominent religious centres of antiquity. Xanthos (Arrina) is where Serpedon lived. Sarpedon encouraged Prince Hector during the Trojan War by writing a poem to him. The site is on the road between Fethiye and Kas, 46 km from Fethiye. It Is part of present-day Kinik village, on the Esen, a stream separating the provinces of Mugla and Antalya. The archaeological value of Xanthos and Letoon make them very important parts of world heritage. The sites are about 4 km apart.The original Lycian sarcophagi once situated just above the amphitheatre, and the original Harpy Tomb are In the British Museum. The sanctuary of Leto was discovered in 1840. There are a six-row theatre, a basilica, Inscription tablets, three temples, a round portico attached to the cult building of the empire and an L shaped stoa. In the ancient city, there are three temples devoted to Leto and her twin sons. Leto's twins, Apollo and Artemis, were deities, and were honoured, like their mother, with a temple each. The largest temple, devoted to the mother of Artemis and Apollo, is the Leto Temple built on the west side In perÃpteros style. It Is 30.25m by 15.75m. On the east side the Apollo Temple is in the Doric style and it is 27.90m by 15.07m. The Apollo Temple looks exactly like the houses depicted In the Lycian tombs. The foundation remains are noteworthy since they have a timber structure. The lesser Artemis Temple Is situated between the other two temples. It Is 18.20m by 8.70m. As water levels have risen since antiquity, the lower parts of the buildings are now under water. Xantos with its spectacular theatre, structural ruins, mosaics, and the underground ruins waiting to be uncovered and Leton with its Leto, Apollon and Artemis temples, monastery, fountain, and Roman theatre ruins are waiting for their visitors to tell their tales.
Turkey is a country that deserves to be explored, and group tours offer an excellent way to do so. The combination of safety, economical choices, social interaction, local expertise, convenience, language support, and attractive package deals make group tours an appealing option for travelers of all types.
City Of Mythologies The ancient city of Troy, famous as the site of Trojan War that Homer described in his epic poem The Iliad, was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998. With its four thousand year history, it is one of the most famous archaeological sites of the world. It is located on the lower slopes of the Mount Ida of antiquity, within the boundaries of Canakkale province. First mention of Troy was made by Homer in his epic poem The Iliad, where it is the ancient site of the Trojan War. According to the Trojan Legend, the sea goddess Thetys and the titan of Atlantic Sea Oceanus had a daughter called Electra. Electra would become Zeus's wife and would give birth to Dardanus. Dardanus would found the city of Dardania. Dardanus's son Tros died in the Turas lands, and Darnanus's grandson llus founded the city of Troy. Close by Mount Ida was the site of the infamous beauty contest that gave rise to the Trojan War. The three beauties of the contest were Hera, Athena and Aphrodite, and the judge was Paris. Paris chose Aphrodite, as Aphrodite promised Paris the love of Helen of Sparta, wife of king Menelaus. Paris abducted Helen and took her to Troy, provoking the war. Troy is known to have 9 archaeological layers, and, to date, house foundations, theatres, a sewage system indicating quite advanced technology, public bath houses, and various artefacts have been found date in the various layers. According to the excavations in Troy, the city was founded and devastated several times in its history. Consequently, layers of settlement marked 1 to 9 can be seen simultaneously. The Trojans replaced the Sardis satrapy of the Achaemenid Empire, and ruled Anatolia for 505 years until the Lydian King Candaules s reign (735-718 BC). Archaeologist Schllemann's excavations, starting In 1871, unearthed 9 ruins of ancient cities and 42 dwellings, and King Priam's Treasure was also found during those excavations. Troy is waiting for those who would like to trace the stories of ancient cultures.
Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex.
A Master work of Classical Ottoman Architecture
Edirne was the capital of the Ottoman Empire prior to the conquest of Istanbul and is famous for its mosques, the elegant domes and minarets, where as Selimiye is the most important monument in this historic city. The complex built in the historic centre of Edirne comprises, two madrasas, a primary school and a covered bazaar besides this magnificient mosque. Carrying the name of the then reigning the Sultan Selim II, the Mosque was ?built by architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century.