Turkey’s breathtaking southern stretch of Mediterranean coastline is a beautiful part of the country. Some of the area’s most important archaeological sites are found here and the landscapes are dramatic with the Taurus Mountains tumbling into the sea, shallow coves, sandy bays, rugged cliffs and pebble beaches.
Journey Highlights
• Marvel at 5th century Lycian rock tombs
• Visit the city of Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in ancient Lycia
• Get behind the scenes insight at Bodrum’s Institute of Nautical Archaeology
• Stroll through a farmer’s market to mingle with the locals
Price:
Twin Share Per Person: From $6,395
Solo Traveller: From $11,835
Fly to Dalaman and transfer to Dalyan where a boat ride across the river delivers you to once-mighty Kaunos, one of the most memorable sites in southwestern Turkey. The city was probably founded as early as the 9th or 8th century BC, most likely by local Carians, and from the 5th century BC onwards, it took on the characteristics of a Greek city, before becoming Romanised. Admire the unique rock-cut temple tombs high on the cliff-side and explore the ruins of what used to be a well-known seaport and a centre for the trade of salt, slaves, and dried figs.
Today, Kaunos is no longer a harbour but its ruins are impressive. Step ashore and wander beside fields of cotton, pomegranate, peach, apricot and olives. Explore the handsome ruins which include a mysterious celestial ‘measuring’ platform, enigmatic ancient pillars, sacred enclosures dedicated to a number of local divinities, a large theatre, baths, harbour facilities, offices and customs charts. Back at the seashore, stop at beautiful Iztuzu Beach where near extinct loggerhead sea turtles nest every summer. Continue to the lovely port village of Gocek for the evening.
D-Resort Göcek (Deluxe Room) | Meals: B
Today is an exploration of ancient Xanthos, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Turkey and UNESCO World Heritage listed. Many of the finds from the Xanthos excavations are now in the British Museum but some impressive monuments and structures remain, including two of the most interesting tombs in Lycia. See the remains of the great ancient city Patara, Lycia’s major port, located at the mouth of the Xanthos River. Beautiful Patara Beach has been voted one of the top beaches in the world and is an easy stroll from the ruins.
D-Resort Göcek (Deluxe Room) | Meals: B
Today’s drive takes you overland to Bodrum via the ancient Stratonikea which was once one of the most important towns in the interior of Caria. These unique ruins were once an ancient Carian city that was inhabited continuously from the 4th century BC to the 20th century AD. Remains include the acropolis, the Sarapeum or temple of Sarapis, the ancient agora and the theatre.
The Marmara (Deluxe Room) | Meals: B
Bodrum is a charming Aegean city with whitewashed buildings in the Greek island style and palm-lined streets. At its heart is the marina and the waterfront is overflowing with shops and restaurants. At one end of the harbour is an islet topped by a 15th century castle built by the Knights of St John. A large ancient theatre dominates the landscape and hundreds of ‘gulets’ (Turkish sailing boats) crowd the harbor. Explore Bodrum today starting with a private, behind the scenes visit to the Institute of Nautical Archaeology, housed in the Castle of St Peter. Normally closed to visitors, during the visit to the INA campus, you will receive a private presentation by the head curator on the secrets of underwater archaeology and how these dedicated scientists have developed an entire discipline of science.
Explore Bodrum harbour, the Myndos Gate of the ancient city walls, the ancient theatre and the site of the Mausoleion. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Alternatively, join your guide exploring the wonderful weekly farmers' market.
The Marmara (Deluxe Room) | Meals: B
Transfer to Bodrum Airport for the flight to Istanbul where your journey ends.
Meals: B
Contact one of our Journey Designers to start planning your itinerary.
Depending on your travel arrangements, final pricing and availability for this Extension may vary.
As a result, it is not available for online booking.
Please call A&K on 1300 851 800, send us a booking enquiry to book this journey or contact your travel agent.
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