From $3,078 Was $3,240
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Experience the stunning sights and tantalising tastes of Turkey on this two-week adventure that takes in all the highlights and then some. Become acquainted with illustrious Istanbul, behold landscapes like no other around Cappadocia and sail the all-too-pretty islands off Kekova. Marvel at the ancient ruins of Ephesus, settle in for a spectacular soaking in Pamukkale’s thermal hot springs and reflect on the tragedies and gallantries that took place along Gallipoli’s windswept peninsula. Brimming with history, bustling with progress and bursting with flavour, Turkey intrigues and delights at every turn of this perfectly paced small group adventure.
Highlights
- Spend three nights staying in the incredible region of Cappadocia, explore the caves, chimneys and the honeycombed terrain of this fascinating place.
- Discover the iconic sites of Gallipoli, Ephesus and Pamukkale with your locally-based leader by your side to teach you all about the history and culture intertwined here.
- Be welcomed into a local cave home and treated to a special home-cooked lunch prepared by your host. Tuck into delicious food and friendly conversations and top off your meal with a bite of traditional Turkish delight.
- Rub shoulders with friendly locals during a relaxing boat cruise through a series of picturesque islands and enjoy another homemade Turkish lunch with your hosts on board.
- Marvel at Istanbul's most revered sites during a guided walk where you'll discover the 17th century Blue Mosque, and head to the ancient Hippodrome to see intriguing monuments like the Obelisk of Theodosius, Snake Pillar and German Fountain of Wilhelm II.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, CYDD (Çağdaş Yaşamı Destekleme Derneği). Donations help them provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1787
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Private Bus,Boat
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: ERKT
Starts: Istanbul, Turkey
Finishes: Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14), Lunch (3),Accommodation: Hotel (14 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $3,078 ($205 /day)
Itinerary
Hosgeldiniz! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure kicks off in Istanbul, the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans have all called home. Meet your leader and fellow travellers at a 6 pm welcome meeting and after, maybe head out together to seek out some tasty Turkish cuisine in a street-side cafe.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities:
- Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) (200 TRY)
- Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) (1700 TRY)
- Istanbul - Galata Tower (30 EUR)
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Kickstart the day with a leisurely guided walk and discover some of Istanbul’s most revered sites. Visit the 17th-century Blue Mosque and learn more about its one-of-a-kind architecture, with its six minarets and 20,000 dazzling handmade Iznik tiles. Next, head to the ancient Hippodrome, with and marvel at the intriguing monuments, like the Obelisk of Theodosius, Snake Pillar and German Fountain of Wilhelm II. Later this morning, travel by private vehicle to the beautiful rural town of Beypazari. The town's historic houses and welcoming community reflects the essence of Turkish culture. On arrival, enjoy free time to explore the streets of this quaint town.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit
- Istanbul - City Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend your morning visiting the Living Museum of Beypazari, which offers re-enactments and interactive experiences that will serve you a deeper understanding of traditional Turkish folk culture. Afterward, drive onwards to Goreme in Cappadocia. Goreme lies in a beautifully diverse landscape of cones, needles and columns, fashioned by nature from the soft volcanic tuff rock. Its unique, honeycombed terrain consists of a network of caves, scooped out to make churches and dwellings, known as fairy chimneys and castles. In times of peace, the people in this region lived on the land, but in times of war, they took to living underground. With no activities planned for the rest of the day, you’re free to explore this intriguing town at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Beypazari - Yasayan Muze (Living Museum of Beypazari)
Optional Activities:
- Goreme - Whirling dervish performance (30 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning you have the option to take a hot air balloon flight, a once-in-a-lifetime experience to watch on as the sun illuminates the skyline dotted with balloons. Even if you'd prefer not to take a flight, it's still worth waking up for this truly incredible sight. Later in the morning, head out to the Goreme Open Air Museum, a monastic complex and Christian sanctuary of carved houses, churches and monasteries. The museum was one of the earliest centres for religious education and there are at least ten churches and chapels in the complex, dating between AD 900 and 1200. Enter the cave chapels and witness the exquisite colour of the biblical frescoes found within. The Dark Church has a particularly stunning interior, which you may choose to visit at an additional cost. The afternoon is free for you to spend as you wish - perhaps consider a sunset hike, ask your leader for the best places.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
Optional Activities:
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (260 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (310 EUR)
- Goreme - The Dark Church Entry (6 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, take a walk through the surrounding valleys and discover the fascinating rock formations and fairy chimneys, as well as manmade cave chapels from early Christian times. Be warmly welcomed into the cave home of Nuray, a local woman who will prepare a special home-cooked lunch for your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your affable host and perhaps top off the meal with some local Turkish delight. Continue your explorations at the red river of Cappadocia – famous for its clay which is still used to make magnificent pieces of art. Meet a local potter and learn about this ancient craft and perhaps take the opportunity to purchase a hand-crafted souvenir. Continue your journey into the valleys of Cappadocia, stopping at Devrent Valley and Pasabag Valley. After a day of exploration, enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
- Cappadocia - Pasabag and Devrent Valley walk
- Cappadocia - Home-cooked lunch
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend your last morning in Cappadocia exploring the Underground City of Kaymakli – an ancient metropolis made up of subterranean labyrinths and dwellings. This afternoon, travel to the city of Konya, where the mystic Sufi practice of 'whirling' originates. On arrival, enjoy an orientation walk of the town followed by a guided tour of the Mevlana Museum, where you’ll get a fascinating insight into the history of Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes.
Included Activities:
- Konya - Mevlana Museum
- Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, drive across the magnificent Taurus Mountains to reach one of Turkey's true coastal gems, Antalya. Your leader will introduce you to the delights of the Old City with an orientation walk along its cobblestoned streets. Visit the clock tower, Hadrian’s Gate and the old Roman Harbour before venturing into the historical zone of Kaleici – an area within Antalya’s historic centre that’s protected from modern development. This area is home to relics of Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman occupations. Afterwards, feel free to swim, relax and enjoy stellar views of the crystal blue Mediterranean.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Leader-led orientation walk
- Antalya - Kaleici visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the Antalya Museum, home to an excellent collection of Turkey’s archaeological treasures. The beautifully preserved statues in the Hall of Gods, Heracles now among them, are not to be missed. Continue to the seaside village of Kas – its whitewashed houses adorned with bougainvillea, as well as an ancient Greek theatre, make this a great place to explore on foot. If you feel like cooling off with a refreshing dip, why not head to one of the waterfront restaurants which often have their own private water access? When the sun goes down there’s the chance to explore the handicraft markets, where you can find beautiful handmade wares with a distinctly Turkish twist. For dinner this evening, make sure you sample the delicious, freshly-caught seafood.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Antalya Museum
- Kas - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll drive to Kekova where you’ll board a local boat and take a relaxing cruise through a series of peaceful and picturesque islands, each with distinctive rock formations – keep your eyes peeled for the ancient houses submerged in the clear water. For lunch, enjoy a homemade Turkish meal onboard before arriving in the settlement of Ucagiz, a township of stone houses draped in colourful flowers. Explore this quaint township before continuing to cruise to beautiful protected inlets – perfect for a refreshing dip just off the boat. Return to Kas for the evening.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll drive to Pamukkale, best known for its mineral-rich thermal waters that flow spectacularly down a terraced hillside. Take a restorative dip in these thermal hot springs and explore the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis. The city was an important Roman bath centre founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BC. 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. Tonight, you can enjoy a free evening in Pamukkale.
Included Activities:
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
It’s an early start this morning as you make your way to Selcuk, your base for visiting Ephesus. Selcuk itself is culturally rich and retains many Turkish traditions. On the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill lie several historical buildings – you’ll see the Isa Bey Mosque, a beautiful example of 14th-century Seljuk Turkish architecture (the Mosque is under renovation at the moment, but we'll get a good look at it from outside), and the imposing Byzantine citadel of the Grand Fortress. Just below the fortress are the ruins of the Basilica of St John, built over the supposed burial site of the saint. On your way to Selcuk, drive past apple and peach orchards to the quaint village of Sirince, where charming red-roofed houses clamber up the hillside. Drop by a local wine house where you’ll enjoy a tasting of the locally produced fruit wines. Try a sip of kiwi, pear, peach, quince or all of the above! Arrive in Selcuk and take a leader-led orientation walk of the town before an evening at leisure.
Included Activities:
- Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk
- Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you'll visit Ephesus, one of Turkey's most important ancient sites. Explore this beautifully preserved classical city with your leader, who will bring its colourful 1500-year history to life. Watch in awe as the sophistication of this former metropolis reveals itself: it had running water, public toilets, a renowned medical institute, and Roman baths. The theatre is well-preserved and regularly hosts concerts, but the marvellous library might just be the highlight. Later you will stop for lunch at a family-run restaurant, where you’ll feast on gozleme – the famous and very popular Turkish pancake – made fresh before your eyes. The afternoon and evening is yours to explore.
Included Activities:
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
- Selcuk - Gozleme making demonstration and lunch
Optional Activities:
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)
- Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum (10 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, travel to the waterside town of Canakkale. On arrival, join your leader for an orientation walk of this exciting university city perched on the Dardanelles. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please. You might like to see the Trojan horse used in the film Troy in 2004, which was later gifted to the city. Canakkale has a great range of dining options – ask your leader for some recommendations. Afterwards, why not take a stroll along the waterfront and sample some dondurma, a type of Turkish ice-cream.
Included Activities:
- Canakkale - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll cross the Dardanelles and head to the Gallipoli Peninsula, a place of enormous significance to Australians and New Zealanders. Turkey's most westerly point may feel serene; however, this coastal point was once a major backdrop of the Great War. Visit the beach and cemeteries of Anzac Cove, then head up the hill to pay homage at the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair memorials. From the Ataturk Memorial you can look down on the blue waters of the Dardanelles and see them in a more sombre light, you'll also find the remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers around this area. After touring the former battlefields, head back to Istanbul where your journey began, arriving late afternoon or early evening. Perhaps join your fellow travellers for a group dinner to celebrate your journey.
Included Activities:
- Gallipoli - Battlefields visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your Intrepid trip comes to an end this morning. If you wish to spend some more time in Istanbul, we would be happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
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
Christine - Traveled, March 2024
If you are considering going on this tour, stop thinking about it and book it. Late March can be chilly, but it isn't crowded and it is a fascinating country. Our guide, Alp, was fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Carolyn - Traveled, March 2024
The Turkey Encompassed tour was outstanding. The knowledge of our tour guide Alp was amazing. The experiences we had were fantastic. We loved everything about this tour and would certainly highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to visit Turkey.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Peter - Traveled, September 2023
We enjoyed our trip had two younger people they did asked too come along liked to see places liked us, felt safe all the time had a fantastic driver and tour guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023
Catherine - Traveled, September 2023
The Essential Turkey trip is a great introduction to the history and culture of Turkey. It covers a lot of ground and you spend a lot of time in a van, but the sights and experiences are highly worthwhile.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/07/2023
Michael David - Traveled, September 2023
My Intrepid trip of Turkey will forever be a highlight of my many travels. I had never taken or participated in small group travel before (I often go solo), but due to limited vacation time and logistics, a friend of mine recommended I look at Intrepid. Intrepid not only met all my expectations, but exceeded them in every aspect! The passion and knowledge of our guide Juju, the quality and location our hotels, the meals, planned excursions and transportation was way above everything I expected and more! For value, this trip gets top marks! I loved every second of it and I am so glad I let Intrepid show me this beautiful country. Because of this trip, Intrepid will now be my go to tour company going forward. The value, quality and passion for what they do shows, and I now want them to by my guide to the world. Thank you Intrepid and Juju! Bravo ?? - David MacDonald from Canada Oct 2023 *if interested you can see videos of my tour at: www.youtube.com/@SuperDavesPSA
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/18/2023
Richard - Traveled, September 2023
Our guide, Ju-Ju, was exceptional. Turkiye did not disappoint, and the tour itinerary reflected its highlights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Kelley - Traveled, September 2023
This was our first tour as we usually travel independently. It was outstanding and we will definitely travel with Intrepid again. Touring with our fellow travelers allowed for comraderie and new friendships. Kivanc, our guide, made the trip more interesting because of his knowledge and caring attitude. Whenever possible he tailored the intinerary to suit our group. We found Turkiye to be rich with ancient history and culture. It is a facinating and beautiful country. We like the food so much we have started cooking it at home.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/07/2024
Grant - Traveled, September 2023
Just completed a 15 day tour of Turkey with our tour guide Barboros Sunger. I would like to highly recommend him as a very well organised, professional, knowledeable and approachable person who made our tour so enjoyable. Turkey is a very diverse country and would highly recommend this 15 day tour we undertook.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023
Connie - Traveled, October 2023
Highly recommend the Turkey Encompassed tour. Our guide, Kivanc, was outstanding and enhanced our knowledge and appreciation for his country. Best Intrepid trip I have taken!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Shelley - Traveled, October 2023
Travel 10,000 years in just two short weeks. Yes there are some (very) long bus rides, but what you will experience at the end of these trips will open your mind and your palate. You'll get history, food and culture from a country that's been at the cross roads of change for a really long time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/03/2023
Alan - Traveled, October 2023
An excellent tour, I would recommend this to everyone Everything about the tour and itinerary exceeded my expectations Turkey is a great country Our Tour Leader Tarik was excellent, knowledgeable, informative and very passionate about the country and the sights we experienced
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/30/2023
Amanda - Traveled, October 2023
Great tour to get a sense of different parts of Turkey. I enjoyed the orientation walks at each new destination and the range of included and optional activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023
Virginia Ann Vallar - Traveled, October 2023
Intrepid tours is the way to go wherever you want a memorable, complete knowledge of the country, and safe amenities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Dawn - Traveled, October 2023
We had a fantastic time on our first visit to Turkey in the company of strangers who soon became friends. The highlight was the Hot Air Balloon ride in Cappadocia, followed by the Kas boat trip which was the most relaxing day. We saw such a lot in 2 weeks.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/24/2023
David - Traveled, October 2023
Wonderful tours by dedicated field staff; experts in their profession
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/22/2023
Keith - Traveled, September 2023
Based on the experiences of our trip we would recommend this trip for Travellers rather than Tourists. Our group gelled well together.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Hana - Traveled, July 2024
Would highly recommend this tour, such a great variety of activities. Ahmet was an extremely knowledgeable and genuinely enthusiastic host for his home country. Would highly recommend him as a tour guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2024
Chris, Mandi & Reilly - Traveled, July 2024
We highly recommend the Intrepid Turkey Encompassed Tour. The itinerary covers a lot of Turkey, but not in a rushed way. We felt incredibly safe in the hands of our kind and thoughtful driver, Mustafa, and our guide, Ergun, was brilliant - knowledgable, kind and caring. Love Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/26/2024
Rozie - Traveled, July 2024
"Turkey Encompassed" offers a balanced mix of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether it's visiting a local family in Cappadocia, exploring bustling markets, or engaging in traditional arts and crafts, travellers gain a genuine understanding of Turkish life. The comprehensive itinerary offered covers major highlights and hidden gems, which can only be found when one is guided by 'a local'. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this trip promises a memorable journey through one of the world's most fascinating countries.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/19/2024
Kelly - Traveled, June 2024
Brilliant itinerary, stunning landscape, excellent leading and guiding,
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/07/2024
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