Price:
Tour Day: Every Wednesday
Pick-up Time: Between 08:30 and 08:45 from your accommodation
Legends of Anatolia
A Journey Through Timeless Villages, Ancient Wonders and Stories That Still Touch the Heart
For Summer 2026, this beautifully renewed excursion invites you to discover some of the most authentic and charming corners of Turkey. From ancient cities and traditional villages to hidden riverside gems and legendary local stories, this is a day filled with culture, beauty and unforgettable moments.
Discover the Heart of Real Turkey
Legends of Anatolia takes you beyond the typical tourist routes and into a world of ancient wonders, traditional villages and stories that have been passed down through generations. This carefully crafted journey reveals a side of Turkey many visitors never experience, combining history, nature, local culture and genuine hospitality into one unforgettable day.
Your Morning Begins in Akyaka
After collecting guests from their accommodation, we travel to the beautiful riverside town of Akyaka, where your day begins in one of the most peaceful settings imaginable.
Breakfast Beside the River
Our first stop is the famous West Cafe, perfectly positioned beside the crystal-clear river. Surrounded by nature, ducks gliding across the water and gentle riverside views, it is one of the most relaxing places to begin your day.
Choose from a traditional Turkish breakfast or favourites such as pancakes, omelettes or a full English breakfast whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Stratonikeia – The City of Eternal Love
After breakfast, we continue to the extraordinary ancient city of Stratonikeia, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Turkey and a place where more than 3,500 years of history can still be seen side by side.
Unlike many ancient cities that were eventually abandoned, Stratonikeia remained continuously inhabited from the Late Bronze Age through the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Menteşe Beylik, Ottoman and early Turkish Republic periods. Even today, part of the historic village of Eskihisar still stands within the ancient city itself, making Stratonikeia one of the rare places in the world where so many layers of civilisation can be experienced together.
As you walk through the site, you may find yourself standing beside a Roman bath, an ancient marble street, an Ottoman house, a traditional village coffee house and buildings from the early years of the Turkish Republic, all within a short distance of one another. It feels less like visiting a single archaeological site and more like walking through a living timeline of Anatolian history.
Stratonikeia is also known as the City of Gladiators. During the Roman period, it became famous for its gladiator culture, with athletes and fighters training, performing and later retiring here. The city was home to one of the largest gymnasiums of the ancient world, reflecting the importance of sport, education and public life during its golden age.
Archaeological excavations first began in 1977 and continue today, constantly revealing new discoveries from the many civilisations that once called this remarkable city home. Every visit offers a unique opportunity to witness history not as isolated ruins, but as a place where thousands of years of human life remain beautifully connected.
Bozüyük – A Village Frozen in Time
Leaving the ancient world behind, we journey to the charming village of Bozüyük.
Famous for its traditional stone houses, peaceful atmosphere and authentic character, Bozüyük offers a glimpse into a slower and more traditional way of life.
Explore the village streets, browse local products, visit the small cultural museum or simply enjoy a tea whilst watching daily village life unfold around you.
A Beautiful Garden Lunch
Lunch is served at one of the region’s most delightful hidden restaurants.
Nestled amongst beautiful gardens and ancient trees, this peaceful setting is renowned for its fresh local dishes, warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere.
Take time to enjoy the surroundings before continuing your journey through rural Turkey.
Aplangıç – The Hidden Gem
Next we visit one of the least discovered treasures of the region.
Aplangıç is a tranquil village known for its cool waters, natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. You may choose to paddle your feet in the refreshing stream, enjoy a drink beside the water, take photographs or simply relax and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
It is one of those magical places that many visitors would never find by themselves.
Belen Kahvesi – The Story of Ormancı
Our final major stop takes us to the famous Belen Kahvesi.
Perched high above the surrounding countryside, this historic coffee house enjoys breathtaking views and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.
Yet what makes this place truly special is the famous story connected to it.
Here you will hear the touching tale behind Ormancı, one of Turkey’s most beloved folk songs. A story of friendship, misunderstanding and tragedy, it has been passed down through generations and remains one of the country’s most powerful local legends.
Whilst enjoying a tea or coffee, you can admire the spectacular scenery and reflect on a day filled with history, culture and unforgettable discoveries.
A Peaceful Journey Home
As the day gently draws to a close, we begin our comfortable return journey to Dalyan.
Filled with ancient cities, hidden villages, beautiful landscapes, delicious food and stories that will stay with you long after your holiday ends, this is a day that captures the true heart and soul of Turkey.
What’s Included
• Breakfast at West Cafe in Akyaka
• Late lunch at a beautiful local restaurant
• Complimentary drink at the tea garden
• Entrance to Stratonikeia ancient city
• Professional guiding
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
What to Bring
• Comfortable shoes or sandals
• Swimwear and towel (optional)
• Sun cream (optional)
• Sunglasses and hat (optional)
• Camera (optional)
• Money for shopping and extra drinks
Legends of Anatolia is more than sightseeing. It is a gentle and meaningful journey through ancient cities, timeless villages, local traditions and stories that have been passed down through generations.
From the remarkable ruins of Stratonikeia to the peaceful charm of Bozüyük, the refreshing beauty of Aplangıç and the legendary tale of Ormancı at Belen Kahvesi, this is one of the most authentic hidden-gem experiences of Summer 2026.
Children aged 13 and under are half price.
Your happiness is our happiness.
Kaptan Deniz Travel
TÜRSAB License Number: 16122
The Lost Tour Guide® – Meet as strangers, leave as friends
