Aglayan Kaya, Aigai & Kyme Ancient Cities Tour from Istanbul by Flight
Discover three fascinating archaeological gems of Western Anatolia in this unforgettable tour from Istanbul. This guided experience combines natural beauty, mythology, and ancient history. Visit the legendary “Weeping Rock” (Aglayan Kaya), explore the ancient Macedonian-founded city of Aigai Ancient City, and uncover the coastal ruins of Kyme Ancient City — one of the important Aeolian settlements of antiquity.
Day 1
Early morning pick up from your hotel in Istanbul and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Manisa or Izmir. Upon arrival meet your professional guide and transfer to the site to join the tour. Highlights of the day: Niobe (Aglayan Kaya) Mount Sipylus National Park Rock relief of Cybele Panoramic viewpoints over Manisa, ideal for hiking, panoramic views, forests, wild tulips, and mythology in one place. According to ancient Greek mythology, Niobe was the daughter of Tantalus and queen of Thebes. Niobe boasted that she had more children than the goddess Leto. In punishment, Leto's children, Apollo and Artemis, killed all of Niobe's children. Overcome with grief, Niobe wept endlessly and was transformed into stone on Mount Sipylus. Water trickling down the rock face resembles tears, giving rise to the Turkish name "Aglayan Kaya" (Weeping Rock). At the end of the tour, lunch at a local restaurant and overnight stay at a 3,4 star boutique hotel.
Day 2
After breakfast pick up from your hotel to join a fascinating journey to the ancient city of Aigai, one of the most important archaeological sites in western Turkey. Located near the city of Manisa, Aigai was one of the twelve cities of the Aeolian civilization and offers visitors a unique combination of history, archaeology, and breathtaking natural scenery. Founded around the 8th–7th century BC, it became one of the twelve cities of the Aeolian League and developed into an important regional center during the Hellenistic era. Archaeological research has revealed a remarkably well-preserved mountain city with civic, religious, and commercial structures that illuminate life in ancient Aeolis.
Highlights of the day:
Discover the ancient marketplace Agora, one of the best-preserved agoras in Anatolia, featuring impressive stone arches and commercial structures. Temple of Apollo. Visit the remains of the temple dedicated to Apollo, one of the most important gods of the ancient Greek world. Bouleuterion. Explore the council building where city administration and political decisions once took place. Gymnasium. Discover the educational and athletic center used by the city's youth. Ancient Streets. Walk along stone-paved roads and admire the urban planning of this ancient settlement. After the tour, lunch break at a traditional local restaurant featuring regional Aegean cuisine. After lunch, we continue the Archaeological exploration and free time for photography and panoramic views across the Yunt Mountains. After the tour, return to the hotel for overnight stay at a 3,4 star boutique hotel.
Day 3
After breakfast pick up from your hotel and drive to ancient city of Kyme. One of the principal cities of ancient Aeolis on the western coast of Asia Minor, in what is now Izmir Province of Turkey. Ancient authors and later traditions regarded it as the largest and most influential of the twelve Aeolian cities, and it served as a major maritime and commercial center for centuries. Located near modern-day Aliaga in Izmir Province, Kyme Ancient City offers a fascinating blend of mythology, archaeology, and seaside scenery. The site features remains of a once-thriving harbor city, including city walls, necropolis areas, Roman-era structures, and traces of ancient trade networks. Kyme is also linked to Greek mythology and early coastal commerce, making it an important stop for history lovers and archaeology enthusiasts. Unlike more crowded ancient sites in Turkey, Kyme offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can explore ruins at their own pace while enjoying panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. After the guided visit, you may enjoy lunch in the nearby coastal town before returning to Izmir Airport for your evening flight back to Istanbul.
Highlights of the day:
Guided exploration of Kyme Ancient City Discover one of the largest Aeolian port cities Necropolis, harbor remains, and ancient city walls Free time in Aliaga coastal area Panoramic Aegean Sea views.
At the end of tour lunch at a local restaurant, free time for shopping and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight back to Istanbul
- This is a full-3 day tour with early morning departure from Istanbul
- Total walking distance at ancient sites may include uneven ground and light hiking
- Flight times may vary depending on availability and season
- Tour schedule may change due to weather or operational reasons
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Comfortable fitness level is recommended
- Archaeological sites are open-air and exposed to sun and wind
What's Included
- Round-trip domestic flights
- Airport transfers
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in a 3,4 star hotel including breakfast
- Professional licensed English-speaking tour guide
- Transportation by air-conditioned non-smoking vehicle
- Entrance fees to archaeological sites
- Guided visits to all listed attractions
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- All local taxes and service charges
Not Included
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks)
- Optional tips for guide and driver
- Dinner and drinks
- Extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Passport or valid ID for domestic flights
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
- Light jacket (spring/autumn mornings can be cool)
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack for personal items
- Camera or smartphone for photography
Frequently Asked Questions
This 3 full day guided cultural tour from Istanbul by domestic flight, combining natural beauty and ancient history. It includes visits to Aglayan Kaya, also known as Weeping Rock, the ancient city of Aigai, and the coastal ruins of Kyme in the Aegean region of Turkey.
Yes. Round-trip domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir (or nearest airport depending on itinerary) are included, along with airport transfers.
Yes, the tour suits most age groups. Still, moderate walking across uneven archaeological terrain is needed, so it may not suit guests with major mobility concerns.
Aigai features remarkable ruins including:
- Ancient theater
- Agora marketplace
- City walls and gates
- Temple remains
- Panoramic mountain views
It is one of the quieter yet highly atmospheric ancient sites in Turkey.
Kyme is among the most notable ancient Aeolian port cities. Visitors can discover:
- Harbor remains
- Old city fortifications
- Ancient settlement traces
- Stunning Aegean coast views
Aglayan Kaya is a natural rock formation known for water dripping from its surface, creating a “weeping” effect. It is a scenic stop offering great photo opportunities and a relaxing natural atmosphere.
Yes advance booking is highly advised especially in peak season since flights and guided group sizes are limited.
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels located in Istanbul.
Yes, a classic Turkish lunch at a nearby local restaurant is included in the tour package.
Yes, the itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather conditions, flight schedules or seasonal site accessibility but all main highlights will be covered.
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