Treasures of Turkey (Small Groups, Base, 15 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day journey through Turkey, a land where history and culture intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Istanbul, the only city straddling two continents, to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, this multi-day tour offers an immersive experience into Turkey's rich heritage. Discover the architectural wonders of the Ottoman Empire in Bursa, explore the spiritual heart of Konya, and relax in the thermal waters of Pamukkale. Traverse the historic Silk Road, witness the poignant history of Gallipoli, and savor the vibrant flavors of Anatolia. With expert guidance and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Turkey's most iconic destinations and hidden gems.
Included
3 nights: Grand Hyatt Istanbul
1 night: Sheraton Bursa Hotel
1 night: Ankara HiltonSA, Ankara
2 nights: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
1 night: Novotel Konya Hotel
2 nights: Akra Barut Antalya
1 night: Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pammukale
2 nights: Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir
1 night: Kolin Hotel, Canakkale
9 Dinner (D)
14 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
Istanbul: Begin your travels savouring traditional flavours over dinner at a local restaurant.
Cappadocia: Watch a spectacular Sema performance of Whirling Dervishes and discover the flavours of Cappadocia as you indulge in a regional dinner of colourful dishes.
Istanbul: Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant.
Bursa: On your orientation with your Travel Director visit the town’s mosques, bazaars and famous Silk Market.
Ankara: On your orientation with your Travel Director of the capital of modern Turkey discover its Roman and Byzantine heritage, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Mausoleum of Atatürk.
Troy: On your orientation with your Travel Director hear about the nearly 4000 year-old settlement, see the wooden Trojan Horse and hear about myths and legends connected to this archaeological site.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Istanbul: An immersive digital experience through the iconic structure's rich past, showcasing its transformation from a Byzantine cathedral to an Ottoman mosque and now a museum, with captivating exhibits and architectural wonders.
Istanbul: Journey through time with a visit to Hagia Sophia, take a unique glimpse into the complex layers of Istanbul's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Cappadocia: Join a Cappadocian local, who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house to learn more about their unique way of life.
Uchisar: Enjoy the unique flavours of Anatolia at Uchisar Kadineli Restaurant, where every dish is homemade with love. This remarkable establishment provides employment for more than 65 women from the village. The restaurant is owned by women and focuses on empowering women through employment. Some employed as administrators, some as teachers, some as cooks and some as waiters. Here they are taught how to sow clothes by using modern technology, how to knit, how to cook, how to make various kinds of artifacts, and how to merchandise their products and convert it to money for their families. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Istanbul: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, where you'll pass Ottoman palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
Cumalikizik: Visit the over 700 year-old village to get glimpse into what Ottoman villages away from the capital looked like.
Ankara: Discover the mysterious Hittite civilisation and visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk.
Göreme: With your Local Expert, explore the underground cities, rock-cut churches, fairy-tale chimneys and the Pasabag Valley.
Visit the narrow passages and interconnecting rooms of this Stone Age underground city dug out from the hills and built to block invaders and defend against attacks.
Learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos.
Konya: Visit a well preserved Seljuk Caravanserai.
Konya: Accompanied by your Local Expert, visit the beautiful Mevlana Tekke museum for an insight into the mystic Whirling Dervishes. See the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret.
Aspendos: Visit the world's best preserved Roman Theatre in Aspendos.
Antalya: Visit the historic Old Town and wander through its charming narrow streets, discovering souvenir markets and sweeping sea views.
Pamukkale: See the cascading Cotton Castle of milky white travertine pools and the ancient ruin of Hierapolis.
Corinth: Visit the open-air museum Aphrodisias dedicated to goddess Aphrodite, see the ancient city and statues that have survived preserving most of their originality.
Ephesus: Discover one of the world's finest ancient sites. Led by your Local Expert, walk the Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and Amphitheatre and visit the Palace of Knossos.
Troy: Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.
Gallipoli: Pay your respects at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery.
Istanbul: Visit the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. With your Local Expert, gain insight into the lives of the Ottoman Sultans during a visit to the fabulous Topkapi Palace. Then stroll through the Grand Bazaar.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to the enchanting city of Istanbul, where Europe meets Asia. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Take some time to unwind and get comfortable before meeting your Travel Director and fellow adventurers for a delightful dinner, setting the stage for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Istanbul to Bursa
- Bursa
- Istanbul
- More
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Green Tomb
- İstanbul Boğazı
- Sarıalan Campground
- More
Embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, soaking in the views of quaint fishing villages and majestic Ottoman palaces. Later, journey to Bursa, the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire. Discover the architectural beauty of the Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque, and the Mausoleum Complex. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant bazaars and silk markets before enjoying a delicious meal at a local restaurant.
Day 3 – Day 3: Bursa to Ankara
- Ankara
- Bursa
- More
- Mütareke Anıtı
- Gordion Museum
- More
Start your day in the picturesque village of Cumalikizik, renowned for its traditional wooden houses and cobblestone streets. Continue your journey to Gordion, the ancient capital of Phrygia, before arriving in Ankara, Turkey's modern capital. Relax at your hotel, the Hilton SA (or similar), and enjoy its luxurious amenities, including an indoor pool, jacuzzi, and hammam.
Day 4 – Day 4: Ankara to Avanos
- Ankara
- Avanos
- More
- Ankara Vakıf Museum
- Column of Julian
- More
Delve into Ankara's rich history with visits to the Hittite Museum and the Mausoleum of Atatürk, honoring Turkey's founding father. Later, travel to Avanos in the captivating region of Cappadocia, known for its unique geological formations and breathtaking landscapes. Spend the evening relaxing in this scenic town.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Cappadocia
- Avanos
- Göreme
- More
- Pigeon Valley
- Özkonak
- Güray Müze
- More
Discover the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, starting with the town of Göreme, famous for its rock-hewn churches adorned with ancient frescoes. Enjoy a unique dining experience at Uçhisar Kadineli Restaurant, supporting local women. Continue to Pasabag Valley and explore the intriguing Özkonak Underground City. End your day with a visit to a local's cave house and a mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes performance.
Day 6 – Day 6: Avanos to Konya
- Konya
- Avanos
- More
- Sille Baraj Parkı
- Sultanhanı Caravanserai
- Mevlâna Museum
- Karatay Madrasah
- More
Begin your day by learning about traditional pottery in Avanos. Travel along the historic Silk Road to a 13th-century caravanserai. Continue to Konya, Turkey's spiritual heart, and explore the Mevlana Museum, Karatay Medrese, and Ince Minaret. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture.
Day 7 – Day 7: Konya to Antalya
- Antalya
- More
- Aspendos Theater
- Antalya Archeology Museum
- More
Travel through the scenic Taurus Mountains to the ancient city of Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres. Continue to Antalya and explore its charming Old Town, filled with souvenir markets and stunning sea views. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal city.
Day 8 – Day 8: Leisure in Antalya
- Antalya
- More
Today is yours to relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel or explore Antalya at your own pace. Consult your Travel Director for recommendations on local attractions, take a leisurely stroll around the harbor, or embark on a boat trip along the coast.
Day 9 – Day 9: Antalya to Pamukkale
- Pamukkale
- More
- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Pamukkale Turkey
- More
Cross the Taurus Mountains to the ancient city of Hierapolis, a Roman spa city. Marvel at the stunning white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, renowned for their mineral-rich thermal waters. Enjoy the facilities at your hotel, the Doğa Thermal Health & Spa (or similar), including indoor and outdoor thermal pools.
Day 10 – Day 10: Pamukkale to Kusadasi
- Izmir
- Pamukkale
- More
- The ancient city of Tripolis
- More
Visit the Temple of Aphrodite in Geyre, part of the ancient city of Aphrodisias. Witness the grandeur of the temple's re-erected columns. Later, arrive in the coastal resort town of Kusadasi, where you can enjoy an evening at leisure.
Day 11 – Day 11: Discovering Ephesus
- Izmir
- More
- El Heykeli
- House of Virgin Mary
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
- More
Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the world's most impressive archaeological sites. Walk along the Arcadian Way, admire the Library of Celsus, and visit the grand Amphitheatre. Discover the House of the Virgin Mary and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, gaining insight into the area's rich history.
Day 12 – Day 12: Kusadasi to Çanakkale
- Çanakkale
- More
- Bergama Museum
- More
Travel to the legendary city of Troy, the setting of the Trojan War and the famous love story of Paris and Helen. See the replica of the Trojan Horse and explore the ancient ruins. Continue to Çanakkale, a gateway to the historic Gallipoli battlefields.
Day 13 – Day 13: Çanakkale to Istanbul
- Istanbul
- More
- Akbas cemetary
- Gallipoli War Museum
- Lone Pine
- More
Cross the Dardanelles Strait to the Gallipoli Peninsula, a poignant site of World War I history. Visit Anzac Cove and pay your respects at the Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, return to Istanbul, where you'll spend the next two nights, reflecting on the journey's historical significance.
Day 14 – Day 14: Exploring Istanbul
- Istanbul
- More
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Irene
- Grand Bazaar
- Topkapı Palace
- More
Immerse yourself in Istanbul's rich history with visits to the iconic Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome, and the magnificent Hagia Sophia. Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar. In the evening, celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15 – Day 15: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
- More
As your unforgettable Turkish adventure comes to an end, bid farewell to your fellow travelers. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward journey. For those extending their stay in Istanbul, your Travel Director will be happy to provide recommendations for further exploration.
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.