Best Beaches and Ruins of Turkey

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Fly into: Istanbul Fly out of: Istanbul

Total Duration: 12 days

Many people come to Turkey to see the stunning ruins, while others are drawn by the siren call of the beaches. This itinerary, starting and ending in Istanbul, will satisfy both, and you'll see some of the greatest preserved ancient sites in Turkey. Some happen to be nestled along beaches, and others are just a short detour from a boat ride and sunshine.

This Trip's Top Experiences:

Archaeology
Beaches
Architecture
History
Natural Beauty

Days 1-3

Maksym Gorpenyuk/Shutterstock

1 Istanbul

Ancient Wonders

Head to the Old City to see some of Istanbul's greatest sights: Aya Sofya, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace
Explore Beyoğlu, Istanbul's new town, which is packed with trendy shops and cafés
Shop at the Grand Bazaar, where you'll find everything from spices to rugs

History
Shopping
Architecture

Discover Istanbul »

Days 4-6

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2 Selçuk and Ephesus

Travel Back in Time

Explore the Greco-Roman ruins at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world
Take a dip in the hot thermal springs at Pammukale, and tour the ruins at nearby Hieropolis
Walk around the town of Aphrodisias, which has ruins dating to 1 BC