17 Days, East & West Turkey Private Tour From Istanbul
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 17-day journey through Turkey, exploring its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultures. This multi-day tour takes you from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, and the serene shores of Lake Van. Discover the architectural wonders of Ishak Pasha Palace, the mystical Göbekli Tepe, and the majestic Mount Nemrut. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Mardin, the coastal beauty of Kaş, and the historical significance of Gallipoli. With comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and unforgettable experiences, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Turkey's most captivating destinations. Join us for an adventure that promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable country.
Included
Ground transportation via a private, air-conditioned vehicle
Airport transfers
Domestic Flights
Breakfasts for days 2-17
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
Domestic flights
Taxes
My Turkey Adventure works with a select number of boutique hotels all around Turkey. Over the years, our guides and team members have combined passenger feedback with their own experiences to create a list of reliable accommodations. We have built professional relationships with the owners and staff at these establishments, and their pride, helpfulness, and enthusiasm reflects in the hotel’s quality and service.
We try to steer clear of the “luxury” 4- and 5-star resorts. By catering to large tour groups, these hotels usually have mediocre service, poorer-quality rooms, and offer buffet-style meals that are picked-at by dozens of travelers each day. The hotels we work with, albeit smaller/boutique, have earned our trust due to their consistent quality, safe and central locations, authenticity, and friendly service. All of our accommodations have free wifi and offer fresh breakfasts with a variety of options.
See sample hotels we use for this itinerary:
2 nights Istanbul: Centrum hotel or similar
1 night Trabzon: Panagia Suite hotel or similar
1 night Erzurum: Rafo hotel or similar
1 night Kars: Katerina Sarayı hotel or similar
1 night Van: Double Tree by Hilton or similar
2 nights Mardİn: Yay Grand hotel or similar
1 night Adiyaman: Hilton Garden Inn or similar
2 nights Cappadocia: Sofa hotel Avanos or similar
1 night Antalya: Eski Masal hotel or similar
1 night Kas: Linda Hotel or similar
1 night Fethİye: Perdikıa Hıll hotel or similar
2 nights Selcuk: St. John hotel or similar
1 night Pamukkale: Melrose View Point hotel or similar
1 night Çanakkale: Büyük Truva hotel or similar
Professional guide
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
- More
Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel in the historic old city, such as the Sultanahmet Palace Hotel (or similar). Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the charming streets and iconic landmarks of Istanbul's old city.
Day 2 – Day 2: From Istanbul to Kars
- Istanbul
- More
- Ani Harabeleri
- More
Start your day with an early transfer to the airport for a flight to Kars, a city rich in Russian, Ottoman, and Seljuk heritage. Upon arrival, meet your guide and embark on a short drive to explore the ruins of the medieval Armenian capital, immersing yourself in the region's fascinating history.
Day 3 – Day 3: Scenic Drive to Van
Day 3: Scenic Drive to Van
- Armenian Church of Akdamar Island
- Ishak Pasha Palace
- Akdamar Adası
- More
Embark on a picturesque six-hour drive from Kars to Van, passing through the town of Doğubayazıt. En route, visit the stunning Ishak Pasha Palace, a unique blend of Ottoman and Middle-Eastern architectural styles. Arrive in Van and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 4 – Day 4: Lake Van and Mardin
Day 4: Lake Van and Mardin
- Hasankeyf Castle
- More
Take a scenic boat trip on Lake Van, visiting Akdamar Island and its 10th-century Armenian Holy Cross Church. Continue your journey with a six-hour drive around the lake to Mardin. Upon arrival, stroll through the enchanting streets of Mardin's old city, known for its captivating limestone architecture.
Day 5 – Day 5: Discover Mardin
Day 5: Discover Mardin
- Mor Hananyo Monastery
- Dara Mesopotamia Ruins
- More
In the morning, visit the Dayrulzaferan Monastery and the ancient Dara ruins. Enjoy a unique vine tasting experience at the monastery. Spend the afternoon exploring Mardin's old town, renowned for its intricate limestone architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Day 6 – Day 6: Göbekli Tepe and Şanlıurfa
- Şanlıurfa
- More
- Haleplibahçe Mozaik Müzesi
- Göbekli Tepe
- More
Day 7 – Day 7: Journey to Mount Nemrut
- Adıyaman
- More
- Mount Nemrut
- Cendere Bridge
- Karakuş
- More
Embark on a four-hour drive to Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colossal statues and tomb-sanctuary complex. Witness the breathtaking sunset from the summit. On the way, visit the Cendere Bridge and Karakus Tumulus. Spend the night in Adıyaman.
Day 8 – Day 8: Arrival in Cappadocia
- Göreme
- Uçhisar
- Adıyaman
- Çavuşin
- Urgup
- More
- Zelve Open Air Museum
- Çat Kasabası
- Uchisar Castle
- More
Travel to the enchanting region of Cappadocia, known for its unique landscapes and fairy chimneys. Check into your hotel in Ürgüp and enjoy an afternoon panorama tour of the Cappadocia region. Spend the night in the charming town of Ürgüp.
Day 9 – Day 9: Explore Cappadocia
- Göreme
- Urgup
- More
- Zelve Open Air Museum
- Efe Nevşehir Cappadocia Rent A Car Car Rental
- Güray Müze
- More
Spend a full day exploring the wonders of Cappadocia. Visit the fascinating Underground City, the Open Air Museum, and the historic Çavuşin Castle. Wander through the picturesque town of Göreme and immerse yourself in the region's unique charm. Return to Ürgüp for an overnight stay.
Day 10 – Day 10: Journey to Antalya
- Antalya
- Urgup
- More
- Mevlâna Museum
- More
Embark on a scenic seven-hour drive to Antalya, passing through the majestic Taurus Mountains. Stop to visit the Mevlana Museum along the way. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a guided night walk through Antalya's charming old city. Spend the night in Antalya.
Day 11 – Day 11: Explore Kaş
- Kaş
- More
- Kekova Adası
- Ucagiz Kekova Castle
- More
Travel to the picturesque coastal town of Kaş, a four-hour drive from Antalya. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Kaş by foot. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stunning coastal views. Overnight in Kaş.
Day 12 – Day 12: Discover Pamukkale
- Pamukkale
- More
- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Denizli Gondola
- More
Drive to Pamukkale, a four-hour journey from Kaş. Check into your hotel and embark on an afternoon tour of the ancient city of Hierapolis and the stunning White Cliffs. Marvel at the natural beauty and historical significance of this unique destination. Overnight in Pamukkale.
Day 13 – Day 13: Ancient Wonders of Selçuk
- Pamukkale
- Selçuk
- More
- El Heykeli
- Milet Museum
- More
Travel to the town of Selçuk, a three-hour drive from Pamukkale. After checking into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring the ancient city of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, and the St. John Basilica. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this remarkable area. Overnight in Selçuk.
Day 14 – Day 14: Explore Priene, Miletus, and Didyma
- Selçuk
- More
- Milet Museum
- Priene Ruins
- More
Embark on a full-day tour of the ancient sites of Priene, Miletus, and Didyma, including the magnificent Temple of Apollon. Discover the rich history and architectural wonders of these ancient cities. Return to Selçuk for an overnight stay.
Day 15 – Day 15: From Selçuk to Çanakkale
- Selçuk
- Çanakkale
- More
- Bergama Museum
- More
Travel to Çanakkale, a four-hour drive from Selçuk. En route, enjoy guided tours of the ancient cities of Pergamon and Troy. Discover the historical significance and archaeological treasures of these legendary sites. Arrive in Çanakkale and spend the night by the historical Dardanelles.
Day 16 – Day 16: Gallipoli and Return to Istanbul
- Çanakkale
- Istanbul
- More
- Gallipoli War Museum
- More
Embark on a guided tour of Gallipoli, visiting the war cemeteries and learning about the historical significance of this site. Afterward, enjoy a scenic five-hour drive back to Istanbul. Spend your final night in the old city of Istanbul, reflecting on the incredible journey.
Day 17 – Day 17: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
- More
Conclude your unforgettable multi-day tour with a final breakfast at your hotel in Istanbul's old city. Reflect on the diverse experiences and memories created throughout your journey before departing for your onward travels.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.