From CAD $9,025
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(18 reviews)
Experience Overview
Get right into the heart of Turkish culture on this 15-day Premium adventure. Explore islands and a sunken city on a locally guided boat cruise, get hands-on in a Turkish cooking class using homegrown ingredients and join a local woman in her home for a specially prepared feast. Take guided tours of Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Antalya and more, and travel through diverse landscapes – from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia (where you can take a hot air balloon ride!) to the glittering Mediterranean Coast. Join local conservationists to learn about marine protection along the Manavgat coastline, then spend two days in Istanbul, exploring the colourful streets of Fener and Balat, the Grand Bazaar’s maze of textiles and the grand Suleymaniye Mosque. End your adventure with a toast on a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus.
Highlights
- Step into a fairytale during your Feature Stay at a unique cave hotel in Cappadocia, which has elegantly decorated rooms carved from stone. Then, if you like, take a hot air balloon over the otherworldly landscape at sunrise.
- Join an experienced local leader as you stroll the ancient streets of Ephesus, uncover the secrets of Sagalassos, explore the legendary ruins of Troy and discover Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and the Million.
- Cruise around the hidden coves and islets of Turkey’s southern coast during an Exclusive Experience guided by a local couple who’ve been navigating the waters for years.
- Feast your eyes on the best of Turkey's otherworldly sights, from the Cotton Castle of Pamukkale to the surreal rockscapes of Cappadocia.
- Get to know the real Turkey on Exclusive Experiences, including an expert-led cooking class, a visit to the Manavgat coastline with local DEKAFOK conservationists and a traditional dinner at a local’s home in Cappadocia.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1794
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle, Boat, Plane
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Supplier Code: ERPT
Starts: Istanbul, Turkey
Finishes: Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14), Lunch (4), Dinner (5)Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (11 nights), Feature Stay (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $9025 (CAD $602 /day)
Itinerary
Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey! Your adventure begins in Istanbul – the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have all once called home. If you’re arriving today, you’ll have a complimentary transfer to your hotel from the airport. If you arrive early, maybe grab lunch at one of the city’s many eateries. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 1 pm. After, you’ll head out with your local leader and small group to explore the Old City of Istanbul. Your leader will introduce you to some of the city’s historic treasures, including the dazzling Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome and the Million – a stone road marker in use since the 4th century. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers over dinner at a stylish restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul - City Tour
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit
- Istanbul - Welcome Dinner
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities:
- Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) (2750 TRY)
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine for an early breakfast, then begin the drive to Canakkale – a port city on the shores of the Dardanelles. Arrive in time to buy yourself some lunch, then head to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Thousands from across the world journey here each year to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the battles of 1915. Tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Head up to the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair while your leader explains the significance of the events across the landscape. Look down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for thousands of young men on both sides. After a day that will no doubt be full of sombre reflection, the evening is free for you to do as you wish in Canakkale.
Included Activities:
- Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair
Accommodation:
- DoubleTree by Hilton or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to Selcuk and stop along the way in Troy, where history and mythology sit side by side. Your leader will take you around the ancient city walls – there’ll be time for a photo op with a replica Trojan horse, too. Learn how the site has confounded historians and archaeologists, then continue to Selcuk. When you’ve checked into your accommodation, join your leader for an orientation walk around this sprawling town at the base of the ancient Ayasoluk Hill fortress, then visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis and the ancient aqueducts.
Included Activities:
- Troy - Archaeological site visit
- Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Celsus Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, visit one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world – Ephesus. Learn what life here was like as you tour the ancient theatre, gymnasium, baths and restored Library of Celsus, and stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Later, drive past apple and peach orchards to the village of Sirince, where red-roofed houses clamber up the hillside. Drop by a local wine house where you’ll taste locally produced fruit wines. Try a sip of kiwi, pear, peach, quince or all the above. Next, you’ll meet a local chef for a Turkish cooking class, using olive oil grown and made on-site and herbs and vegetables picked fresh from the garden. Learn how to make a range of small Turkish meze dishes using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with an evening dinner of the mouth-watering meze plates you’ve made together.
Included Activities:
- Ephesus - Archaeological Site Visit
- Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
- Selcuk - Cooking class
Optional Activities:
- Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum (10 EUR)
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Celsus Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, travel to the town of Pamukkale. Named after its incredible travertine terraces, Pamukkale means ‘cotton castle.’ This magical and spectacular natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming a collection of pools and terraces. As the water overflows, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that, from afar, resemble cotton or snow. The pools are filled with water that many believe has healing properties for circulation and the digestive system. Head up to the ruins of Hierapolis – an important Roman bath centre founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BC, where your leader will bring history to life and guide you through an ancient temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica, necropolis and an impressive theatre. You then have the evening free to spend how you wish.
Included Activities:
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Accommodation:
- Hierapark Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Make the journey to the coastal town of Kas (meaning ‘eyebrow’) and begin exploring on a walking tour. Now primarily a holiday town, Kas is strewn with the remains of Lycian tombs, iconic, whitewashed walls covered with climbing bougainvillea and an ancient theatre where you can watch a spectacular sunset. The walk is sure to inspire your appetite, and your leader will be on hand to show you where to grab a great gozleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread). The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this easygoing town – maybe sit back with a pomegranate cocktail or check out the local markets.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional Activities:
- Pamukkale - Hot Air Balloon (180 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Payam Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off for a boat cruise around the islands today, with a local family who use their unique knowledge and love of the local waters to share a distinctly traditional way of cruising and eating with travellers. On board, you’ll enjoy a range of freshly prepared local greens, zucchini fritters and maybe even some Turkish raki (an anise-flavoured alcoholic spirit). Sail from large bays to protected inlets where you can cool off with a swim. Kick back with a cold beer or learn how to play backgammon – Turkey’s most beloved game – and look out for the ruins of an ancient city submerged under the water. Return to Kas for an evening at your leisure.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch
Accommodation:
- Payam Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel from Kas along a scenic route, stopping at the ancient city of Phaselis. Here you’ll have time to stretch your legs among Roman ruins or cool off with a swim in the sea. Then, continue to Antalya, where your accommodation is tucked away near the beach. Once you’ve settled in, join your leader for an early evening walk around Kaleici (the Old City). See Hadrian’s Gate, the Old Roman Harbour and photo-worthy views of the Mediterranean. Tonight, you’ll experience Turkish family-style dining at a traditional meyhane (tavern) with plenty of shared plates, local drinks and live music.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Leader-led orientation walk
- Antalya - Phaselis Ancient City
Accommodation:
- Ruin Adalia Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll travel to the Manavgat region for a Signature Experience with DEKAFOK. This important conservation initiative focuses on protecting marine life while creating a balance between tourism and the natural environment. Meet the local DEKAFOOK conservationists, who will walk along the coastline with you and share more about their work, ongoing research and education efforts. Then, take a boat trip along the Manavgat River with the conservationists, where you’ll take in the region’s lush landscapes from a different perspective and hear more insights about the region’s marine environments and the impacts of the growing tourism industry. Enjoy lunch onboard as you drift through this scenic setting. Later, return to your hotel in Antalya, where you can unwind after a day of discovery.
Included Activities:
- Manavgat – Coastal Protection NGO Visit and Boat Trip
Accommodation:
- Ruin Adalia Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Set out this morning on your journey from Antalya to Cappadocia, with a great stop along the way – the peaceful lakeside town of Beysehir. It’s home to the expansive Lake Beysehir – the largest freshwater lake in Turkey – surrounded by unspoilt nature and mountain views. Here, visit the remarkable Esrefoglu Mosque, a rare example of Seljuk wooden architecture, known for its intricately carved pillars and unique flat wooden ceiling that has stood for over 700 years. Take some time to relax by the lake and enjoy a meal of freshly caught fish. Soak up the tranquil atmosphere before continuing your journey inland. Arrive in Cappadocia later in the day and head out on a short orientation walk to get your bearings, then settle in and enjoy a well-earned rest ahead of tomorrow’s adventures.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Leader-Led Orientation Walk
- Beysehir - Eşrefoğlu Mosque
Accommodation:
- Avantgarde Refined Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast overlooking the valley, then step back in time at the Goreme Open Air Museum. See the incredible houses, churches and monasteries carved out of the soft cliff face as your leader shares stories of the civilisations who lived here. Next, you’ll visit a carpet-weaving cooperative that empowers women by giving them the tools to produce one-of-a-kind traditional rugs. Hear local insight into the history of carpet weaving and see how the intricate pieces are made. Later in the afternoon, go on a short walk through the cheekily named Love Valley, famous for its phallic rock formations. Then, head back to your hotel and perhaps take an optional Turkish bath to unwind at the end of the day.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Valley walk
- Cappadocia - Carpet weaving co-op
- Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
Optional Activities:
- Cappadocia - Turkish Night with Dinner (50 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Whirling Dervish Performance with transport (40 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Avantgarde Refined Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a morning walk to see the fascinating rock formations of the Kizilcukur Valley. After lunch, head toward the red river of Avanos and descend to Ozkonak to explore an underground city hollowed out of tufa rock that dates to 400 BC. Return to the surface and visit the studio of a local ceramic master. Speak with a local artist who’ll explain the history and techniques of traditional Turkish ceramics. Discover the rich clay from the red river and watch how it’s moulded into exquisite pieces. This evening you’ll be warmly welcomed into the home of a local family who’ll prepare a special homecooked dinner for your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your hosts and top off the night with some Turkish delight.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Home-cooked dinner
- Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
- Cappadocia - Kizilcukur Valley
- Cappadocia - Ozkonak Underground City
Optional Activities:
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (200 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (230 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Sightseeing from the Valley (20 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Avantgarde Refined Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to Cappadocia this morning and return to where it all began – Istanbul. When you arrive, settle into your hotel, then head out to continue exploring the city. Wander through the historic neighbourhoods of Fener and Balat, known for their colourful houses, cobbled streets and rich cultural heritage. Along the way, you’ll come across centuries-old churches, including the striking Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople and other hidden gems that reflect the area’s deep-rooted Greek Orthodox history. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere, discover local cafes and perhaps capture a few photos of the vibrant facades before returning for the evening.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul – Fener and Balat Neighbourhood Tours
Accommodation:
- Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After a relaxed morning, continue your day uncovering treasures of a different kind in Grand Bazaar, where over 3000 shops line 61 bustling streets. Meet a few local characters, practise your haggling skills, sip a traditional Turkish coffee and take your time browsing everything from handwoven textiles to intricate ceramics. Then, visit the elegant Rustem Pasha Mosque, famed for its vibrant Iznik tiles, before heading up to the grand Suleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece offering sweeping views over the city. Later, step aboard a private cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where you can unwind with a drink in hand as the city slowly shifts from day to night. Drift between two continents as you take in some of Istanbul’s most iconic sights from the water – from leafy shores and elegant Ottoman mansions to landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace. Stretching between Europe and Asia, the Bosphorus is the heart of the city and the vital link connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara – and there’s no better way to experience its beauty than from the deck as the sun sets. This evening, join your group for a farewell dinner at one of Istanbul’s excellent restaurants to celebrate a well-travelled trip.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul - Suleymaniye Mosque
- Istanbul - Farewell Dinner
- Istanbul - Private Bosphorus Cruise
- Istanbul - Grand Bazaar
Accommodation:
- Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast. If you want to spend some more time in Istanbul, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Chloe - Traveled, October 2023
What a great way to spend another Thanksgiving with a different form of Turkey. We had an amazing and friendly guide, Pinar. Who always made sure the group was ok and was super knowledgeable about the history of Turkey and the ruins. Turkey is a huge country and you will be spending a lot of time in the car so be sure to be ready to sit. I left the trip smiling, with new friends and family. Thank you Pinar and Turkey!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Terry - Traveled, September 2023
The experiences and adventures in the itinerary were exceptional and significantly enhanced my appreciation, understanding and knowledge of Turkey. It was a special blend of history, geography, art and culture. Our guide, Tarik, was second to none and truly made the trip a standout. The tour was a lot of fun and very interesting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2023
Bernadette - Traveled, September 2023
Tarik, our guide/leader, of Premium Türkiye Highlights made this 15 day experience magical and memorable. Each day was filled with history, culture, and carefully curated goosebump moments that we will forever cherish.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Derek - Traveled, September 2023
This itinerary offered an excellent insight into the cradle of civilisation. With a well informed guide and first rate hotels this tour had everything for the history buff without being too academic with the option of some adventurous side events. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Louise - Traveled, September 2023
I got to explore some great sites in Turkey and our guide, Ozgur, really knew how to present his country. Especially the food! The highlights for me, were the balloon ride in Cappadocia, the day on the boat in Kaz and seeing the ruins of Troy and many great Roman cities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Evan - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip with a great leader, great people and great views. Recommended to anyone
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Sonia - Traveled, October 2023
A trip that would make you fall im love with turkey and leave you with wanting to go back again. The itinerary covers the best of the best giving you time to soak up the culture and history of turkiye. Semih the trip guide made it even better with his in depth knowledge about the history and culture of this amazing country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Ann - Traveled, October 2023
Turkey came as a delightful surprise. It is hard to describe the stunning living history of the various civilisations, sitting beside a modern clean safe friendly environment
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/07/2023
Susan - Traveled, October 2023
This trip was excellent. It was exactly as described in the Essential Trip information, with a couple long days driving which were well broken up with interesting sites and clean rest stops. Our guide Busra was excellent and made the trip an experience of a lifetime. Turkiye and a beautiful country and its people are warm and welcoming.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/11/2023
Pamela - Traveled, October 2023
Our guide, Tarik, is the gold standard in tour leaders. His historical knowledge is phenomenal. He always had excellent suggestion for lunch and dinner, and frequently accompanied us, instead of leaving us to find our own places to eat. He was always smiling, helpful, considerate and kind. I can't fault him in any way. Our driver Yilmas(not sure of the spelling) was accomplished and punctual.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/01/2023
Arantxa - Traveled, October 2023
Overall an excellent trip! Our guide Pinar, was knowledgeable, kind and always helpful. Turkey is a beautiful country - delish food, kind people, history, and I especially loved the Mediterranean part (Selcuk, Kas) as well as Cappadocia. The hotels (minus 2) were satisfactory, and could have been better selected! Would recommend this one for sure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Christine - Traveled, September 2023
This was an excellent trip. I would recommend it to anyone considering Turkey and wants as a well rounded, compete experience in the country. I would caution anyone signing up as a twin share to make sure that the hotels Intrepid has contracted are actually going to provide adequate accommodation. On our trip the signature stay was at Des Suites, a cave hotel. Our accommodation consisted of a palatial king bed and a cot or day bed. Not my idea of a twin share (2 beds of equal or similar quality!). I was not impressed…
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
Valerie - Traveled, September 2023
This tour is wonderful. Hits all the high points in Turkey. We had wonderful accommodations and the tour guide made the trip so much fun. Highly recommend it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2023
Maree - Traveled, August 2023
Had a fabulous 15 days on this Turkey tour with a fun , very knowledgeable and helpful guide Mete . Highly recommend this tour and guide
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
gayelene - Traveled, August 2023
My first experience with Intrepid is definitely not going to be my last. I was on the Turkey premium and the Amazing Mete made a huge impact upon the whole experience
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Kerry - Traveled, August 2023
First trip to Turkey our tour guide Can DEMIR opened our eyes to the beauty & history of this country . Accomodation , transport & meals supplied were excellent
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023
Kuganesan - Traveled, August 2023
Overall my journey i enjoyed the trip. Well prepared and safe trip. I never hesitate to use intrepid again for my next trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Lisa - Traveled, July 2023
Turkey exceeded all expectations. Highlights include the hot air balloons in Cappadocia, Istanbul (the whole city) such a vibrant place, the mediterrianean region (Kas and Antalya) the food was second to none and lastly the rich culture! A Intrepid tour made the logistics simple and easy, which only left one thing to do, sit back, relax and enjoy ??????????
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/02/2023
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