Lycian Civilization & Mediterranean Coast Tour
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want more than a traditional archaeological tour. It combines remarkable ancient cities with breathtaking coastal scenery, boutique hospitality, local culinary experiences, and ample leisure time to enjoy the Mediterranean. Rather than rushing from site to site, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the landscapes, history, and relaxed lifestyle that have made the Lycian Coast one of Turkey' s most captivating destinations. The result is a well-balanced journey that appeals equally to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, photographers, and those simply seeking an unforgettable cultural holiday.
Discover one of the most fascinating regions of Turkey on this carefully designed 8-day journey through the heart of the ancient Lycian Civilization. Combining UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spectacular Mediterranean landscapes, charming coastal towns, and authentic local experiences, this tour offers the perfect balance between history, culture, relaxation, and nature.
Travel along the famous Turquoise Coast, where dramatic mountains meet crystal-clear waters and ancient cities overlook secluded bays. Explore impressive archaeological sites that tell the story of the independent Lycian League, one of history's earliest democratic federations, while enjoying boutique accommodations, traditional Mediterranean cuisine, and leisurely afternoons by the sea.
Tour Highlights:
- Return domestic flights from Istanbul
- Visit 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Explore 10–12 ancient Lycian cities
- Boat cruise over the famous Sunken City of Kekova
- Swim at some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches
- Boutique hotels in charming coastal towns
- Traditional Mediterranean and village cuisine
- Scenic coastal drives along the Turquoise Coast
- Relaxed itinerary with free leisure time
Day 1
Early pick up from your hotel in Istanbul and private transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Dalaman. Upon arrival , you will meet our representatives and continue with a scenic drive to the Mediterranean coast.
You will visit the magnificent ancient city of Patara and walk through Roman Theater, Parliament Building, Ancient Lighthouse and Harbor area. You will have free time at Patara beach and we will continue to Kalkan for the amazing sunset overlooking the harbor.
After the tour, you will check in to a boutique hotel for overnight stay at Kalkan.
Day 2
After breakfast, we will pick you up from the hotel to visit the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Xanthos and Letoon. We will continue to Saklikent Gorg and will have lunch break at a village.
We will continue for a leisure evening at Kas and overnight stay.
Day 3
After breakfast, will pick you up from the hotel to explore the ancient cities of Phellos and Antiphellos. Will visit the
Ancient theater, Lycian rock tombs, King's Tomb and the Harbor.
In the afternoon, free time for swimming, shopping, clubbing at beach bars or cafeterias.
Overnight stay in Kas.
Day 4
After breakfast, drop to the harbor to join the cruise from Ucagiz. You will see Kekova, Simena Castle, Sunken City, Hidden coves. Swimming stops and optional kayaking.
Return to Kas for overnight stay.
Day 5
After breakfast, pick up from your hotel to explore Myra, Lycian rock tombs and Roman theater. We will continue to Andriake, Ancient harbor and Granary Museum. Optional visit to the Church of Saint Nicholas.
Overnight at a boutique hotel near Demre.
Day 6
After breakfast, pick up from your hotel to visit the mountain cities of Arykanda and Limyra.
Will enjoy mountain scenery, citrus orchards and local villages.
In the afternoon free time at Finike Beach for leisure or swimming.
Overnight stay at a boutique hotel.
Day 7
After breakfast, pick up from your hotel to explore Olympos and ancient ruins hidden among forest. We will continue to Phaselis and visit the Roman harbor and aqueduct.
Free time for swimming and farewell dinner to taste Mediterranean dishes of the region.
Overnight stay at a boutique hotel near Kemer or Antalya.
Day 8
After breakfast, and depending on flight schedule will visit Kaleici (optional) and transfer to Antalya airport for your return flight to Istanbul.
- This tour involves moderate walking on uneven archaeological sites.
- Suitable for travelers with a general level of fitness.
- Summer temperatures may exceed 35°C (95°F).
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
- Boat cruise is subject to weather conditions.
- Boutique hotels are selected for character and location rather than large resort facilities.
- Swimming opportunities are available on several days, weather permitting.
- Domestic flight schedules may require minor itinerary adjustments.
What's Included
- Return domestic flights Istanbul-Dalaman / Antalya-Istanbul
- Airport transfers
- Visit to ancient cities and the most important Lycian sites of Patara, Xanthos, Letoon, Antiphellos, Phellos, Myra, Andriake, Arykanda, Limyra, Olympos and Phaselis
- Comfortable private transportation throughout the tour
- Professional licensed English-speaking tour guide
- 7 nights boutique hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Lunch and dinner as per the itinerary
- Boat cruise to Kekova and the Sunken City
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites listed in the itinerary
- Parking fees, road tolls, and local taxes
Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Lunches and dinners not specified in the inclusion section
- Beverages during meals
- Optional activities (kayaking, diving, spa services)
- Tips for guide and driver
- Items of a personal nature
- Passport or ID for domestic flights
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight clothing
- Hat and sunglasses
- Swimsuit
- Beach towel
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- Light jacket for evenings spring and autumn
- Personal medications
- Power bank for mobile devices
Optional additions depending on timing:
- Apollonia
- Isinda
Frequently Asked Questions
Expect moderate walking daily. Ancient cities often feature stone paths, uneven ground, and some uphill sections. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
This tour brings together the finest highlights of Turkey' s Mediterranean coast in one memorable journey:
- Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Up to twelve ancient Lycian cities
- Beautiful Mediterranean beaches
- Scenic coastal drives
- Boutique hotels
- Traditional local cuisine
- Boat cruise to Kekovas Sunken City
- Authentic village experiences
- Relaxed itinerary with free time for swimming and leisure
Yes The tour is guided by a licensed professional who shares historical background, archaeological insights and local cultural details throughout the journey.
Yes. We strongly advise full travel insurance that includes medical costs, trip cancellations, and personal items.
Yes. Solo travelers are warmly welcomed. The tour creates a friendly vibe and is a great way to meet like minded travelers.
The Mediterranean coast is celebrated for fresh seafood, grilled meats, olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, local cheeses, village breakfasts, and traditional Turkish desserts.
Breakfast is included each morning. Certain lunches or dinners may also be included, depending on the package. On free evenings, guests may enjoy local eateries and regional Mediterranean cuisine.
Best seasons are:
- April–June
- September–October
These months bring mild weather for sightseeing and swimming. July and August are hotter and best for beach fans.
The tour is easy to moderate. Most sightseeing includes relaxed walking with steady breaks and short driving stretches.
Yes. This tour is crafted for travelers who appreciate history, nature, scenic views, and leisurely sightseeing. The pace is easy, with free time for swimming and relaxation. Some archaeological sites include uneven paths and mild walking.
Guests stay in handpicked boutique hotels and charming seaside lodgings that capture the spirit and warmth of the Mediterranean region.
Yes. One of the tour highlights is a scenic boat cruise around Kekova, where you can admire the famous Sunken City, tucked-away coves, crystal-clear waters, and the charming village of Kalekoy.
Yes. One of the tour highlights is a scenic boat cruise around Kekova, where you can admire the famous Sunken City, hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and the picturesque village of Kalekoy.
Absolutely. Unlike fast-paced archaeological tours, this itinerary includes dedicated leisure time at beautiful Mediterranean beaches and boutique seaside towns, allowing guests to swim, relax, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Yes. The tour includes the UNESCO listed archaeological sites of Xanthos and Letoon, the political and religious centers of ancient Lycian civilization.
Based on the final itinerary, the tour may feature:
- Xanthos
- Letoon
- Patara
- Tlos
- Pinara
- Myra
- Arykanda
- Limyra
- Olympos
- Phaselis
The itinerary is crafted as an 8-day / 7-night journey, giving ample time to discover the key Lycian archaeological sites while also enjoying beaches, local villages, and the Mediterranean coast at a relaxed pace.
The tour begins and ends in Istanbul. Guests fly to the Mediterranean region at the beginning of the tour and return to Istanbul on the final day.
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