From $1,667 Was $1,755
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
See the real Turkey on this 15-day adventure through the best bits. Discover the cultural melting pot that is this fascinating landscape, which straddles both Europe and the Middle East. Indulge in some incredible local bites (and maybe some shisha, too), explore ancient ruins and walk in the footsteps of Marc Antony, Cleopatra and the Trojan army. Wander Istanbul at your own pace, then hit the coast to swim and sunbake in the Dardanelles Strait, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, sailing along the south coast. Learn about the practices of Sufism and the art and performance of the whirling dervish, then spend a few days getting to know otherworldly Cappadocia. Wander the fairy chimneys, get up early to see the iconic sight of hot air balloons floating along the city’s skyline and maybe even treat yourself to a ride at sunrise! This trip is all the best bits of Turkey and more! What more could you need?
Highlights
- Eat, swim, sunbake, repeat – that’s what will happen when you get cruising along Turkey's Mediterranean coastline. The choice is yours if you’d like to go exploring or just relax on deck.
- Delight your tastebuds with exceptional Turkish cuisine, from kebabs to coffee and the famous Ayvalik tost – a Turkish-style toasted sandwich. Then, dine in the home of a local family, where you’ll be treated to a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal.
- Thought all the best Roman ruins were in Italy? Think again! Turkey is home to one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus – so discover it just like Anthony and Cleopatra did 2000 years ago.
- Explore the weird and wonderful world of Cappadocia – this might be the most unusual place in Turkey. Learn all about its fairy chimneys and sprawling rock formations from your expert local leader.
- Wade through the scenic hot springs at Pamukkale – pure white calcium deposits that cascade down the cliffs overlooking the town, are said to have magical healing properties.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1812
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Ferry,Local bus,Private Bus,Boat,Overnight Bus
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: ERYOC
Starts: Istanbul, Turkey
Finishes: Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (2), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights),Pension (3 nights),Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights),Overnight Bus (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $1,667 ($111 /day)
Itinerary
Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul – the metropolis where European and Middle Eastern culture meet. You’ll have an important welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, maybe get out into the city streets and wander around or go hunting for a real doner kebab and some authentic Turkish delight (which pairs nicely with a cup of Turkish coffee). If you arrive a day or two early, maybe consider taking a day trip to Princes’ Islands. After the meeting tonight, why not head out for dinner with your group and get a taste of the fabulous local cuisine.
Optional Activities:
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free
- Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) (200 TRY)
- Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show (1500 TRY)
- Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) (100 EUR)
- Istanbul - Galata Tower (30 EUR)
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
- Istanbul - Archaeology Museum (15 EUR)
- Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (17 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, jump on a bus and ferry to the shores of Gallipoli – a significant peninsula for Australians and New Zealanders. A place of pilgrimage for many, it’s hard to imagine the now calm waters and peaceful landscape as the site of such a brutal battle back in World War I. Take in the reverence and serenity of the area and hear the stories of heroism and mateship that shone through the tragedies of war. You'll spend tonight in Canakkale – a popular university town – so you won’t have a hard time finding something fun to do tonight. Whether you’re chilling on the shore of the Dardanelles with a drink or checking out a local band with some of your travel pals, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in this coastal city.
Included Activities:
- Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
Up for learning a little about ancient history and mythical heroes? This morning, you’ll have the option to take an excursion out to the ruins of Troy – the famed walled city infiltrated by the Greeks after they hid in the enormous Trojan Horse. Explore the ancient walls, climb around the 4500-year-old ruins and look out across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Later, drive down the coast to Ayvalik, where your leader will take you on a walk to discover the town's fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish cultures. You’ll also visit the ladies at Copmadam – a local social enterprise that employs local women who upcycle waste and produce accessories and homewares. For lunch, snack on a local Ayvalik tost (a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings).
Included Activities:
- Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)
- Ayvalik – Orientation Walk
Optional Activities:
- Troy - Guided visit (27 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is yours to explore Ayvalik. On the edge of the Aegean Sea, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to hang out in your free time. Stroll through the cobblestone backstreets and check out the rows of terracotta-roofed houses and lively cafes. Kucukkoy’s Greek stone houses, art galleries and delicious pastries are worth checking out. You could also head out to one of the many beaches in the area (like Sarımsakli and Badavut) or head out to Cunda Island, filled with Greek Orthodox churches. Tonight, you can join your group for an optional dinner where you could try some raki or balik with some of your travel crew. Set around a harbour, what better way to kick off the evening than with a drink at a harbour-side bar looking out to the Aegean Islands? As the locals say, “raki, balik, Ayvalik!””
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, take a local bus to the town of Selcuk. When you arrive, take an orientation walk to get your bearings. Later, you can head out to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Marc Antony and Cleopatra. This is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. You’ll be amazed by the sophistication of this ancient city, which had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a medical institute and Roman baths. The theatre is also well preserved, but it’s the library that’s perhaps the coolest structure. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Included Activities:
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
Optional Activities:
- Selcuk - Basilica of St John (6 EUR)
- Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) (15 EUR)
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel east inland to Pamukkale, which literally translates to 'cotton castle'. Here, spectacular natural hot springs with a high calcium content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, creating bright white terraces, or ‘cotton’. Why not take a dip and snap some pics – these springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC and its waters are said to have healing properties. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy a dip in what used to be her old pool, soaking in the transparent springs that were sculpted for her as a gift from Marc. You can also check out the other ruins of the city – Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheatre shouldn’t be missed. If you're lucky, tonight you might catch an epic sunset from the acropolis.
Included Activities:
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Optional Activities:
- Pamukkale - Cleopatra Ancient Pool (340 TRY)
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, make your way south to the coast of Turkey to see the whitewashed buildings of Kas. Right on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll be able to explore this area and its Old Town this afternoon. You could be lazing by the beach and taking in the views out over the sea, swimming in the clear turquoise waters or wandering through the Ancient City of Antiphellos. This area has been inhabited since the 4th century, so make sure to soak in some of the incredible history while you’re here. As the sun sets, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations and feast on local delights in a restaurant tucked away in a corner of the Old Town.
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
Sailing in the Mediterranean is on a lot of people’s bucket lists for a reason, and today you get to tick it off yours. Jump in a boat and sail along the Turkish coast for the day, discovering the mysterious sunken ruins of an ancient Lycian city, exploring rock tombs, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and cruising along this incredible coastline. After a day of swimming, soaking up the sun, eating a delicious homemade meal and exploring ancient lost worlds, head back to Kas for a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Turkish Coast day sailing
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, hop on a public bus to Antalya – the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya with its cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. Head around town with your group leader, maybe jump on the old Nostalgic Tram or go to Konyaalti Beach for some more time chilling out beachside. If you are in the mood for some last-minute history, check out some of the best museums in the country, or get theatrical at Aspendos ancient city with a beautiful, intact theatre from Roman times. Tonight, why not stake out some food and shisha with your group – Antalya has a thriving nightlife scene, so take advantage.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour
Optional Activities:
- Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici (250 TRY)
- Antalya - Antalya Museum (15 EUR)
- Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, say goodbye to those leaving and meet with your new travel buddies at a second meeting at 11 am. Then, jump straight on the bus and go north to the charming city of Konya. The birthplace of Sufism (a religious belief and practice seeking the truth of divine love and knowledge) and the home of the famous whirling dervish, Konya is busting at the seams with history and culture. While you’re here, maybe check out the Mevlana Museum – the former dervish school turned museum – where you can visit the mausoleum of Rumi, a famous Sufi poet. For dinner, your leader can give you the best insider recommendations, so ask them where to find the tastiest kebab or where the best place for drinks is to celebrate stage two of your journey.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, say farewell to Konya and hop on a bus to Cappadocia – home to strange rock formations, fairy chimneys and underground cities. Later in the morning, head underground and explore some of the 36 underground cities – these rabbit-warren metropolises were carved into the earth thousands of years ago. You’ll also have the opportunity to check out a traditional pottery demonstration with a local artisan, revealing all the secrets to creating the perfect ceramics. Tonight, a local family will welcome you and your group into their home for a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal. After, you might like to check out the nightlife in Goreme, or hit up a traditional sema performance of whirling dervishes.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
- Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home
- Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You may have seen the iconic hot air balloons over Cappadocia online, and this morning will be your chance to tick that epic sunrise experience off your bucket list. If you’re up for it, rise bright and early and head out and up as the sun rises over the otherworldly city. Heights not for you? There are tonnes of great viewing points around the city where you can grab some pics or a few selfies as the sky fills with balloons. Later in the day, discover the highlights of the region this afternoon, checking out Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley – your group leader will know all the best places to stop. Then, why not grab some wine and find a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Sunset Hike
- Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley
Optional Activities:
- Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath (60 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (260 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (310 EUR)
- Goreme - Whirling dervish performance (30 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is your day to explore all that Cappadocia has to offer. If you’re keen to get out and stretch your legs, why not head out on the Red Valley Hike, which takes you through Meskindir and Rose Valley. The natural sharp sandstone structures glow in the sun, and the trail takes you through a cave church with excellently preserved wall frescoes. If hiking is not your thing, why not explore the markets and street vendors in town. There is a wealth of incredible Turkish handiwork on display, from ceramics to intricately woven carpets. Don't forget to check out the Goreme Open Air Museum, where you can explore the fairy chimneys, cave churches and ancient villages. Tonight, you’ll be hopping on an overnight bus to take you to Istanbul, so settle in and snooze the night away.
Optional Activities:
- Goreme - Open Air Museum (20 EUR)
- Goreme - Bike Riding (230 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Overnight Bus (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine in Istanbul. Your overnight bus will arrive in the capital city of Turkey early this morning, so after dropping your bags at your hotel, the day is yours to explore. With your group, you’ll be heading off on a historical peninsula tour, where you’ll be shown all the best bits of Istanbul and get a lay of the land. Your tour includes all the essential highlights for every new traveller, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. After hunting down some lunch (borek and Turkish coffee, anyone?), why not explore this incredible city on foot and uncover some hidden gems. Tonight, check in with your leader for the best spots to grab dinner, and maybe rally the group to toast your adventure.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul - Historical Peninsula Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your group leader and travel pals. If you would like to spend more time checking out all Istanbul has to offer, your leader will be able to give you the best tips for making the most of your time in the city. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
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
Aleisha - Traveled, October 2023
The Turkey tour offered a glimpse of the country's beauty, but the experience was negatively impacted by rushed and poorly organised segments. Some transport lacked sufficient seats, forcing passengers to sit on the floor during lengthy journeys without seatbelts, which was unacceptable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Emily - Traveled, October 2023
Would 100% recommend this trip to everyone! Taha (our guide) was incredible, teaching us lots about Turkish culture and history. He looked after us all so well! We got to see so many amazing places and I've definitely made friends for life!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/21/2023
Erin - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was amazing!! Our guide Oz was the BEST and everyone in the group was awesome. The places we went and activities we did couldn’t have been better. The only thing that could improve is travelling back to Istanbul from Cappadocia during the day, skipping the overnight bus and having a night in Istanbul with the group at the end to go for one last dinner together and being able to wake up fresh in the morning before travelling on. After two weeks with the group it felt like family and it was so sad saying goodbye and to Oz as well. Türkiye exceeded my expectations, I loved this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023
Jessy - Traveled, September 2023
Turkey is absolutely beautiful and this tour was a perfect way to experience it. Yes it's fast paced but don't let that put you off, there is plenty of down time if you need it, but if your group was as good as mine you'll want to be apart of everything! Thanks Oz for being the best guide! Serefe!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Rachael - Traveled, October 2023
Incredible tour with everyday seeing something beautiful and amazing. Experienced some of the best Roman sites in the whole world, better than those seen in Rome. This trip included some amazing home stays and beautiful home cooked meals. Plus got to do it all with wonderful new friends.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/20/2023
Alessandro - Traveled, September 2023
The tour was great. While definitely a tiring and more budget style tour, It still provided some comfort and relaxation opportunities. A fantastic way to experience a lot of Turkey ina short time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Marina - Traveled, August 2023
Highly recommend this tour! This itinerary allowed us to see and experience a variety of the amazing country that is Turkiye. The safety of group travel was invaluable and our guide Ilter was great. He communicated clearly, was knowledgeable, well-organised and always willing to answer my endless questions. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/24/2023
Megan - Traveled, August 2023
An amazing trip! Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and engaging. Each day was filled with so many great activities, tonnes of culture/history and a good balance of free time to unwind. If you haven't been to Turkiye, this trip should be top of your list!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2023
Reece - Traveled, August 2023
I had not heard of Intrepid before booking 'Real Turkey'. The itinerary, people and leader made my trip unforgettable. I look forward to my future trips with Intrepid and highly recommend it to all travellers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/25/2023
Lucy - Traveled, August 2023
Real Turkey was a great experience. Our leader Oz was full of so much knowledge and we had an awesome tour group of similar ages like minded people. An awesome and worry free way to see the best of turkey.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2023
James - Traveled, August 2023
Our trip around Turkey with Oz was epic. Oz really made the trip with his knowledge and made it super easy. Intrepid should clone him so everyone gets the same experience we did!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2023
Aymee - Traveled, June 2023
Amazing tour with the most beautiful people and tour leader all while visiting some of the most amazing places
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2023
Brooke - Traveled, June 2023
I had the most amazing time with our tour Guide Oz, he worked super hard to make sure we where beyond happy! He couldnt have been more accomodating if he tried! The entire tour was just incredible! It is fully packed with included activities and beach days, i highly recommended it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2023
Ralph - Traveled, June 2023
Fantastic trip around Turkey - the fast paced nature meant we got to see so much in the two weeks. Our tour guide Oz was an awesome leader and we were all devastated saying goodbye to him! Would highly recommend this trip - you won’t be disappointed!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/22/2023
Melis - Traveled, June 2023
This trip was absolutely incredible. We saw all of the best bits of Turkey, and were lucky to have Oz as our tour guide, who was so well informed and made this trip so great, and was the reason we all bonded so well. All of the accommodation we stayed in was lovely, and the places we went to for food were delicious. I would do it all over again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/21/2023
Thomas - Traveled, May 2023
Well organised, great people and very good value for money. Highly recommend Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/03/2023
Justine - Traveled, May 2023
Had a fantastic time exploring Turkey with an amazing group of people! Highlights included Pamukkale, the Kekova sailing trip, and the hot air balloons in Cappadocia. Turkey is a huge country, and this itinerary definitely gives you a good overview within 2 weeks. Some of the transportation needs to be reworked, especially the long bus rides to and from Cappadocia (our group ended up purchasing flights).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/26/2023
Amy - Traveled, April 2023
The Real Turkey intrepid exceeded all of my expectations and was an absolutely amazing experience that I will never forget. Turkey was more beautiful than I ever could have imagined, I felt so safe at all times and has some of the nicest local people. Our tour leader Safak was the best tour guide we could have ask for and made the entire experience so much better everyday with his kindness, organization and love for his job.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/04/2023
Bradley - Traveled, April 2023
Highly recommend Turkey Intrepid, having our guide and group made our experience that much more fun and unforgettable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/05/2023
Adam - Traveled, October 2023
One of the best trips I've ever been on. Excellent group and guide. Very positive experience
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2022
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