Majestic Turkey
12 Days Starting in Istanbul, Turkey and ending in Antalya, Turkey
Visiting: İstanbul, Ankara, Hattusas, Yazilikaya Acik Hava Tapinagi, Cappadocia, Avanos, Goreme Historical National Park, Kaymaklı, Red Valley, Rose Valley, Konya, Antalya, Perga, Aspendos Theater
Tour operator:
Tour code:
TKY
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 18
Physical rating:
Moderate
Age range:
25-99
Special diets catered:
Vegans, Meat, Vegetarians, Gluten Free
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$3109
$2954 (USD)
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$155
Tour Overview
Ever dreamt of gliding over Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon? Or getting lost in the Grand Bazaar? On this 12-day journey through Turkey, you’ll do precisely that, and then some. Your adventure begins where two continents collide in a glorious explosion of colour: Istanbul. After discovering the beauty of this cosmopolitan city, you’ll venture out to the traditional capital Ankara and the curious troglodyte dwellings of Cappadocia, plus the wild Taurus Mountains and coastal serenity of Antalya. There’s also time for a food tour of Kadikoy, and the chance to marvel at centuries-old ruins in Hattusas. All of our trips are flightless in destination, with 100% of all carbon emissions offset. It's just part of how we see the world while being good to it.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Istanbul
Location: İstanbul, İstanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera
Meals Included: Dinner
Upon arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be whisked off to a five-star hotel in the harbourside district of Karaköy. Here, our Local Insider will greet you at 6pm and accompany the group throughout the trip. Drop your bags and get your first taste of Istanbul at the in-house hammam, or take a short walk to see the Galata Tower. Regroup in the evening for a welcome dinner at Hamdi in the Old City; tuck into Urfa-style kebaps and lahmacun (thin, meat-topped pizza) while getting to know your fellow travellers. Today serves as a gentle preamble to the packed itinerary over the next two days.
Activities included:
Welcome dinner
Transfer from either IST or SAW airport
Day 2 : Admire The Extraordinary Architectural Treasures Of Istanbul
Location: İstanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera
Meals Included: Breakfast
Starting at the elegant Blue Mosque, our tour will lead you through the vibrant streets of Istanbul. This unique city is a melting pot of Byzantine, Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Turkish civilisations, where tradition and modernity live harmoniously side-by-side. Enjoy the vast beauty of the Hagia Sophia and the exquisite details within the Topkapi Palace complex, once the imperial residence of 25 Ottoman sultans. Take your time to sip a glass of çay (Turkish tea) while you haggle for souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with more than 4,000 shops.
Activities included:
Guided Old City tour
Guided Grand Bazaar tour
Day 3 : Discover The Sights, Sounds And Smells Of Istanbul’S Two Continents
Location: İstanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, allow yourself to be drawn into the aromatic pleasure of the Spice Market. Next, a hop aboard a ferry across the Bosphorus, the historic waterway between the shores of Europe and Asia, where you’ll glimpse the architectural highlights of Istanbul, such as the Rumeli Fortress. Disembark in the fairytale-like neighbourhood of Kuzguncuk, where you’ll take part in a food-tasting tour through Kadıköy, sampling Turkish specialities such as lahmacun, kaymak and baklava. After taking a ferry back to the European side, you’ll walk through the ancient Beyoglu tunnel and end your day with a stroll down the popular, shop-lined Istiklal Street.
Activities included:
Guided Spice Market tour
Bosphorus ferry cruise
Istanbul food tour
Day 4 : Visit The Traditional Capital City, Ankara
Location: Ankara
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Wings Hotels Neva Palas
Meals Included: Breakfast
On arrival in Ankara, you’ll instantly sense the calmer, less touristy way of life – in contrast to the chaotic clamour of Istanbul. By now, you’ll probably be familiar with the figure of Kemal Atatürk, founder and first leader of the Turkish Republic, as his image is found across the country. In Ankara, you’ll visit Anıtkabir, his monumental tomb, then onto the Ankara Citadel and the fascinating Museum of Anatolian Civilizations to pour over the most extensive collection of Hittite artefacts in the world, some more than 7,500 years old. Bed down in a luxurious city-centre hotel.
Activities included:
Guided Anıtkabir visit
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations visit
Day 5 : Experience The Remarkable Sites Of Hattusas, Yazilikaya And Cappadocia
Location: Hattusas, Yazilikaya Acik Hava Tapinagi, Cappadocia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Utopia Cave Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast
The capital of the ancient Hittite Empire was the mighty Kingdom of Hattusas. Discover this extraordinary relic from the late Bronze Age as you meander through huge stone walls set with reliefs and statues from more than 5,000 years ago. A short walk uphill from the Unesco World Heritage site will bring you to Yazilikaya, a sacred memorial place for Hittites. This impressive site is a natural open-air temple hewn in the rocks, and hidden in the high cliffs. Tonight, you’ll stay in cave-like rooms built from local stone.
Activities included:
Hattusas visit
Yazilikaya visit
Day 6 : Marvel At The Unique Chimney Stack Rock Formations Of Cappadocia
Location: Cappadocia, Avanos, Goreme Historical National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Utopia Cave Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Although optional, we highly recommend you take the early morning hot-air balloon ride. Floating silently over the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia is undoubtedly the best way to experience this natural phenomena. Enjoy breakfast back at the hotel before heading to Goreme National Park, which has more than 30 rock-carved chapels and the unique cliff dwellings of Zelve. Come afternoon, you’ll join a terracotta workshop in Avanos, creating traditional colourful pottery using time-honoured techniques. Finish your day with a wine tasting at the finest winery in Cappadocia and an optional visit to see local craftspeople weave rugs.
Activities included:
Guided Goreme Open-Air Museum tour
Zelve Valley visit
Pottery workshop
Wine tasting
Optional activities:
Hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia
Rug weaving demonstration
Day 7 : Explore An Underground City And Hike The Rose And Red Valleys
Location: Cappadocia, Kaymaklı, Red Valley, Rose Valley
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Utopia Cave Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tug on your hiking boots today. You’ll be exploring the Kaymakli Underground City, cut seven storeys down into volcanic rock. These labyrinthine tunnels were dug by locals to hide from marauding armies centuries ago, and could house thousands of people and livestock. Leaving the subterranean city behind, you’ll embark on an 8km (5mi) hike through the Rose and Red valleys; the pink colour of the other-worldly rocks changes as the sun moves across the sky. Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring Cappadocia at leisure. Evening brings optional traditional entertainment of live music and, of course, belly dancing.
Included activities:
Guided Kaymakli Underground City Tour
Rose and Red valleys hike
Optional activities:
Turkish evening entertainment
Day 8 : Visit The Compelling City Of Konya
Location: Konya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Konya
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to the Cappadocia caves as we drive on to the sacred city of Konya. Walk in the footsteps of the most famous Persian poet and great Sufi mystic, Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, as we explore the streets of his hometown. Immerse yourself in Rumi’s teachings, learn about his life, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the mesmerising Whirling Dervishes as they spin, hands held aloft, in a form of meditation. Next, you’ll visit the Mosque of Aladdin, one of the oldest mosques in Turkey, where you can take time to investigate interesting architectural features and beautiful historical tiles.
Activities included:
Mausoleum of Rumi visit
Mosque of Aladdin visit
Day 9 : Stroll Through The Archaeological Sites Of Aspendos And Perge
Location: Antalya, Perga, Aspendos Theater
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Akra Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Widely renowned as one of the best preserved Roman theatres of the ancient world, the Aspendos amphitheatre was built during the reign of emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180CE) and was used as a caravanserai by the Seljuks in the 13th century. This ancient masterpiece is used for performances to this day. You’ll hear the story of how the statues of Perge were unearthed as we explore this ancient town, before the final leg of your day trip: a journey through the wild landscapes of the Taurus Mountains to Antalya.
Activities included:
Aspendos amphitheatre tour
Perge visit
Day 10 : Explore The Gateway To The Turkish Riviera, Antalya
Location: Antalya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Akra Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you have two options. You could hike to the ancient mountaintop site of Termessos, 1,000m (3,281ft) above sea level. The national park includes an impressive amphitheatre, Roman baths, aqueducts and even a gymnasium, bounded by a dense pine forest and home to rare wild plants. Alternatively, kick back by the hotel pool. Regroup in the afternoon for a walking tour of the Old Harbour. This includes the colourful marina, cobblestone streets and the fascinating Antalya Archaeological Museum, considered to be one of the best in Turkey. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.
Activities included:
Old Harbour walking tour
Optional activities:
Termessos hike and tour
Day 11 : Relax On The Beloved Beaches Of Antalya
Location: Antalya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Akra Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As our tour comes to a close, it’s time to relax and take stock of everything you’ve discovered on your trip through the diverse Turkish landscape. Take a dip in the sea and find your spot to unwind on the miles of soft sand in Turkey’s favourite seaside destination. Alternatively, join an optional adventure to Koprulu Canyon National Park – a vast playground for hiking, rock climbing, swimming and river rafting. Climb aboard and paddle downstream to work up an appetite for your farewell dinner, in a beautiful location under the night sky.
Activities included:
Farewell dinner
Optional activities:
River rafting
Day 12 : Depart From Antalya
Location: Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast
After one final night at your hotel, your trip concludes. Say goodbye to your new-found friends at midday before either making your way back to Istanbul to catch your onward flight or continuing your exploration of this fascinating country.
What's Included
-
Private and local transport
-
Meals described in the itinerary
Eleven breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners
-
Activities described in the itinerary
-
Accommodation
Three nights cave hotel accommodation Three nights period mansion hotel accommodation Five nights premium hotel accommodation
-
Local Insider
-
Arrival airport transfer from either IST or SAW
-
Istanbul Old City tour
-
Grand Bazaar and Spice Market tour
-
Bosphorus ferry cruise
-
Istanbul food tour
What's Not Included
-
International flights
-
Departure airport transfer
-
Travel insurance
Visas (if applicable)
-
Visas (if applicable)
-
Resort Taxes (If applicable)
Optional Extras
-
Departure Transfer Argos Hotel - Antalya Airport (AYT)
Private transfer for up to 3 passengers
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera
With views of the Golden Horn and rooms inspired by old Istanbul, this Radisson Blu is the perfect spot to kick back post exploration. There’s also a modern spa, plus a restaurant with panoramic views over the water – just grab a Turkish coffee if you’re not hungry. End the evening with liquor in the Luna Lounge.
The Wings Hotels Neva Palas
Ankara city centre lies on the doorstep of this plush hotel on Kucukesat Avenue. Plush rooms feature fluffy bathrobes, slippers and flat-screen TVs. Breakfast is served in the dining room – or in your room on request.
Utopia Cave Cappadocia
Staying in a cave has never been so opulent. Hewn from rock, yet with all the trappings of a modern luxury hotel, Utopia Cave Cappadocia offers a truly unique stay, with traditional hammams, a swimming pool and several terraces from which to savour its one-of-a-kind location.
Hilton Garden Inn Konya
Just across the street from the Mevlana Cultural Center, you’ll find the Hilton Garden Inn Konya. Classically styled rooms await, but not before you’ve sampled the local raki (a local spirit made from grapes and aniseed) in the bar.
Akra Hotel
Perched right on the seafront, the 5 star Akra Hotel is the perfect place to finish up your adventure through Turkey. With views of both the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains, the Akra is located walking distance to the lively marina and city centre of Antalya. Rooms are luxurious and service is top-notch, plus there are multiple bars, bistros and fitness centres for use as well as a superb pool and buffet breakfast.
Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Pera
With views of the Golden Horn and rooms inspired by old Istanbul, this Radisson Blu is the perfect spot to kick back post exploration. There’s also a modern spa, plus a restaurant with panoramic views over the water – just grab a Turkish coffee if you’re not hungry. End the evening with liquor in the Luna Lounge.
The Wings Hotels Neva Palas
Ankara city centre lies on the doorstep of this plush hotel on Kucukesat Avenue. Plush rooms feature fluffy bathrobes, slippers and flat-screen TVs. Breakfast is served in the dining room – or in your room on request.
Utopia Cave Cappadocia
Staying in a cave has never been so opulent. Hewn from rock, yet with all the trappings of a modern luxury hotel, Utopia Cave Cappadocia offers a truly unique stay, with traditional hammams, a swimming pool and several terraces from which to savour its one-of-a-kind location.
Hilton Garden Inn Konya
Just across the street from the Mevlana Cultural Center, you’ll find the Hilton Garden Inn Konya. Classically styled rooms await, but not before you’ve sampled the local raki (a local spirit made from grapes and aniseed) in the bar.
Akra Hotel
Perched right on the seafront, the 5 star Akra Hotel is the perfect place to finish up your adventure through Turkey. With views of both the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains, the Akra is located walking distance to the lively marina and city centre of Antalya. Rooms are luxurious and service is top-notch, plus there are multiple bars, bistros and fitness centres for use as well as a superb pool and buffet breakfast.
Please note that, while unlikely, the accommodation indicated may be subject to change (see T&C’s). On a rare occasion, alternative arrangements may be necessary – this may be due to a lack of availability at our preferred accommodation, or other reasons outside our control. We’ll do everything we can to prevent this from happening; however, in cases where it is unavoidable, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
-
What is the group size?
Our maximum group size is 18, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.
-
Can I travel in my own private group?
Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.
-
How much money should I bring?
This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.
-
Do I need to buy travel insurance?
Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.
-
What is not included in the trip?
We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.
-
Are airport transfers included?
Some of our trips do not include airport transfers, so we recommend customers either take public transport or a taxi. However, if you would like us to arrange a private transfer please ask one of our travel experts who can arrange this for you.
-
Why should I travel with Culture Trip?
We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.
-
What happens if I am travelling on my own?
Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.
-
Do I need any vaccinations?
As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.
-
Are flights / transport to the destination included?
No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.
-
What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?
You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.
-
Do I need to tip?
Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.
-
What kind of luggage should I bring?
It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.
-
Is there any age limit on the Trips?
You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.
-
What visas do I need?
Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.
-
What kind of transport do you use on your trips?
We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.
-
When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?
We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.
-
How many meals are included?
Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.
-
Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?
Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.
-
How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?
We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.
-
Will there always be a guide on the trip?
Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.
-
I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?
We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.
-
Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?
You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.
-
Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?
The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!
-
What is a Local Insider?
We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.
Reviews from Travellers on this Tour
Want a private tour?
Dates & Availability
tourhub Discount Available - Sign In
Friday - Tuesday
Jun 07, 2024 - Jun 18, 2024Friday - Tuesday
Jul 05, 2024 - Jul 16, 2024Friday - Tuesday
Aug 16, 2024 - Aug 27, 2024Friday - Tuesday
Sep 27, 2024 - Oct 08, 2024Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Culture Trip allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 55 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Culture Trip allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform culture trip, 55 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Culture Trip requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 55 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of culture trip charges.
At 54 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is protected in an external trust until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."