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Best of Turkey Overview

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Uncover Turkish mysteries from iconic Istanbul to ancient Ephesus

Explore the mysterious land of the Ottomans Intrepid-style. Marvel at Mehmet Aga's masterpiece, the Blue Mosque, and bargain for trinkets in Istanbul's massive Grand Bazaar. Try delicious Turkish snacks, be mesmerised by the Whirling Dervishes and discover the underwater treasures of the Mediterranean on a relaxing boat cruise. From the laneways of ancient Ephesus to the bizarre landscapes of Cappadocia - take the plunge and discover a unique travel adventure waiting for you in Turkey.

  • Admire the travertine pools of Pamukkale
  • Enjoy a home-cooked meal with a Cappadocian family
  • Explore the ruins of Ephesus
  • Sail over a sunken city on Turkey's Mediterranean coast
  • Taste traditional Turkish fruit wines
  • Travel across the Turkish plains to the Anatolian Steppe
  • Trek along part of the Lycian Way
  • Visit Konya, home to the mesmerising Whirling Dervishes

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Best of Turkey Summary

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Days 1-2 Istanbul

Adorned with treasure from all periods of human history, Istanbul is not only one of the world's most fascinating places, it's also one of its most mesmerising.

Day 3 Bursa

Once the capital of the Ottoman State, Bursa has a rich architectural heritage. It's also famous for being the home of the Iskander (doner) kebab.

Days 4-5 Selcuk

Selcuk's claim to fame is its proximity to the amazing ruins of Ephesus, although it has its own charm with its orchards, forests and strong cultural roots.

Day 6 Pamukkale

The arresting cascade of travertines and nearby hot springs have attracted visitors to Pamukkale since ancient times.

Days 7-8 Kayakoy

Once a small Greek town, Kayakoy is now virtually a ghost town and maintained as a museum with fascinating ruins, especially of the two churches.

Days 9-10 Kas / Boat Cruise / Kas

Sunken cities, Mediterranean beaches, a whitewashed Old Town, spectacular cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere are all found in delightful Kas. The clear, aquamarine waters off Kas are ideal for swimming, snorkelling and exploring the coast from a different angle - see Lycian tombs, a sunken city and secluded bays. Sloping down the hillside to reach the sea, Kas is a lovely Turkish town with cobblestone streets, quiet cafes, great diving and beautiful bays and beaches.

Day 11 Konya

Home to the mesmerising Whirling Dervish sect of Islam, Konya has strong theological roots, remarkable architecture, a historical market district and excellent museums.

Days 12-14 Goreme

Sculptured by millenniums of erosion and centuries of human craftsmanship, Goreme is a truly magical place with fairy chimneys, rock-hewn churches and underground cities.

Day 15 Istanbul

The wonderful city of Istanbul has an incredibly rich history, amazing array of architectural styles, a delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife, fascinating culture and oodles of style.
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What's included in this trip

  • Start:

    Istanbul, Turkey

  • Finish:

    Istanbul, Turkey

  • Group size:

    Min 1 , Max 12

  • Ages:

    Min 12

  • Meals:

    9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

  • Accommodation:

    Guesthouse (2 nts), Hotel (8 nts), Overnight boat (1 nt), Overnight bus (1 nt), Pension (2 nts)

  • Transport:

    Bus, Dolmus, Ferry, Gulet, Overnight bus, Private Bus, Taxi

  • Included activities:

    Bursa - Dervish Lodge, Goreme - Home-cooked dinner, Goreme - Valley walk, Istanbul - Leader-led walking tour, Kayakoy - Lycian Hike, Kayakoy - Oludeniz Blue Lagoon, Leader led orientation walk, Leader-led orientation walk, Pamukkale - Hierapolis & Travertines National Park, Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological site, Selcuk - Gozleme making demonstration and lunch, Selcuk - Sirince visit & fruit wine tasting

  • Carbon emissions offset:

    536kg pp per trip

  • Notes:

    1 single supplement is available on this trip. See under the Single Traveller section of your Trip Notes for more information.
    2. Please note that's since 2012 brochure was printed a change to this itinerary was necessary due to the unexpected closure
    of the Ankara to Istanbul train line. Please refer to trip notes for further information.
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About Turkey

    • 15
    • ERSI
    • 4.75 out of 5
    • Contact us Discontinued trips tool tip
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    • Original
Contact us

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