Essential Turkey
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Take an adventure along the coast of Turkey
See some of the best bits of Turkey – a cultural melting pot that straddles Europe and the Middle East – on this 10-day trip with likeminded travellers. Indulge your senses with traditional Turkish food (don’t forget to try a coffee and some shisha, too!), explore ancient ruins and walk in the footsteps of Marc Antony and the Trojan army. Dip your toes in the Dardanelles Strait, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea and sail along the south coast, uncovering the mysteries of ancient sunken cities. With so much on offer, what more could you ask for.
4.8
86 reviewsStart: Istanbul, Turkey
End: Antalya, Turkey
- Duration
- 10 days
- Group size
- 1 to 16
- Ages
- Min 18 - Max 35
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Basix
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- 18 to 35s
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
This trip is for 18 to 35 year olds
Tick off all the popular spots and enjoy unique local experiences
Affordable trips with the freedom to choose how you spend your time
Connect to the places you go and the communities at the heart of every Intrepid experience
Why you'll love this trip
- Eat, swim, chill, 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.
- Discover one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus and wander the ancient ruins – not all Roman ruins are in Italy!
- 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.
- Explore the city that straddles the continents and discover its incredible and varied history – the thriving metropolis of Istanbul is where East literally meets West.
- Learn the history of the Gallipoli Peninsula, and hear the harrowing stories of the ANZACs and one of the most infamous battles of World War I.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2026 - 31 December 2026
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.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free
- Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) - TRY200
- Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show - TRY1500
- Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) - EUR100
- Istanbul - Galata Tower - EUR30
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - EUR25
- Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - EUR15
- Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts - EUR17
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
If you have extra time in Istanbul, you may consider purchasing the Istanbul Museum Pass, which cost 2500TRY. The pass is valid for 5 days and includes 13 museums. Please be aware that some of the most popular ones like Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern and Galata Tower are not included by the pass though. Topkapi Palace is also closed on Tuesdays so please plan your visit accordingly. please check this website for more details of the validity of the pass https://muze.gen.tr/MuseumPasses
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.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
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).
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)
- Ayvalik – Orientation Walk
- Troy - Guided visit - EUR27
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
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!””
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (1 night)
- Breakfast
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.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
- Selcuk - Basilica of St John - EUR6
- Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) - EUR22
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
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. Take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and check out the 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.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has announced that Cleopatra’s Pool will be closed for renovations. Unfortunately, there is currently no confirmed timeline for completion.
Today, maybe get up early for a sunrise hot air balloon over Pamukkale before making 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.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Pamukkale - Hot Air Balloon - EUR180
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
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.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Kas - Turkish Coast day sailing
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.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour
- Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY250
- Antalya - Necropolis Museum - EUR5
- Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City (including transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR48
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Your adventure comes to an end today in the beautiful city of Antalya. Say your farewells to your new travel buddies and head off whenever you’re ready. Not ready to leave yet? Check in with your leader for any hot tips to make the most of your extended stay. If you need to organise extra accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
- Breakfast
Inclusions and activities
9 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Ferry, Local bus, Private Bus, Boat, Tram
Hotel (7 nights), Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights)
- Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
- Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)
- Ayvalik – Orientation Walk
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
- Kas - Turkish Coast day sailing
- Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free
- Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) - TRY200
- Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show - TRY1500
- Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) - EUR100
- Istanbul - Galata Tower - EUR30
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - EUR25
- Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - EUR15
- Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts - EUR17
- Troy - Guided visit - EUR27
- Selcuk - Basilica of St John - EUR6
- Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) - EUR22
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
- Pamukkale - Hot Air Balloon - EUR180
- Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY250
- Antalya - Necropolis Museum - EUR5
- Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City (including transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR48
This trip generates 39 kg of CO2-e per person per day
Learn more about our climate commitment.
When you travel with us, The Intrepid Foundation gives you more opportunities to support important causes in destinations you visit.
Before you book you should know
- You’ll get a taste of local life on this trip, with most travel done on public buses. This minimises our carbon footprint and gives you a real chance to interact with the local community. Most Turkish buses have wi-fi, in-seat entertainment and serve refreshments.
- Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but it does require a level of independence. Only are few meals are included, so mostly you'll find your own (with plenty of suggestions from your leader of course). This trip puts it in your hands with tonnes of free time. Maybe budget a little extra cash for activities that aren’t included.
- The cobblestone streets, narrow steps and tiny bridges of Turkey are very romantic. They’re also another good reason to pack light and leave the wheeled suitcase at home. You'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the buses, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential Trip Information’ section.
- Summer temperatures can be very high in Turkey (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. You’ll need walking shoes and a daypack to explore some of historical sites.The weather can be hot in July and August, but keep in mind that this is the best time to enjoy the clear water of the Mediterranean. It can also get cool in these destinations, particularly from October to April, so don't forget to pack extra layers if travelling at this time.
- This trip is a great way to see a lot in a short period of time and it can be part of a longer itinerary if you have more time to explore. You might like to check out Real Turkey.
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Centrum Hotel Istanbul
Hoca Paşa Mh. İbn-i Kemal Caddesi No:14
Istanbul
34080
TURKEY
Description
Hotel Centrum Istanbul is at the heart of the old city. Rooms are modern and with private bathrooms, in room safes, satellite TV and free Wifi. There are many restaurants and cafes nearby and the hotel is within walking distance to the Sultanahmet district and landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and Grand Bazaar. The hotel is well-serviced by nearby public transport.
Instructions
Intrepid can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport - enquire with your agent. Please advise your flight arrival details, including which airport in Istanbul, at least 14 days prior to your departure.
There are two international airports servicing Istanbul. Istanbul Airport (IST) is 50kms/30miles northwest of central Istanbul, on the European side. Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is 50kms/30miles southeast of central Istanbul, on the Asian side. From either airport you can take a metered taxi to the joining point hotel. The taxi fare will cost approx. TRY1500-2300.
We recommend screenshotting or printing the below details as wifi in both airports is unreliable.
If you cannot find your transfer representative, or if your flight is delayed, please call the number listed below in the ‘Problems and emergency contact information’ section.
Arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST)
If you have pre-booked an arrival transfer, you will be met outside the Arrivals Hall. After collecting your luggage, proceed through the Arrivals Hall and exit through Gate 8. On the left hand side, you’ll see a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign.
Due to airport regulations, drivers have to wait offsite so you will need to wait for a short period of time before they arrive at the pick-up area. Once the driver arrives, the transfer representative will escort you to meet the driver (two floors down).
The journey from the airport to the hotel will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour but can increase to 90 minutes or more during rush hour.
If you’d like to take public transport, you can use the HAVAIST bus service, which is located one level down from the Arrivals Hall. Please enquire at the information booths on the transport level for schedule times and to purchase prepaid tickets (TRY18). You will require the bus for Eminounu; it’s then a short walk to your hotel.
Arriving at Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
If you have pre-booked an arrival transfer, you will be met outside the Arrivals Hall. After collecting your luggage, proceed through the Arrivals Hall, exit, and cross the road between columns 9 and 10 to Simit Sarayi bakery. You’ll find a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign.
Due to airport regulations, drivers have to wait offsite so you will need to wait for a short period of time before they arrive at the pick-up area.
The journey from the airport to the hotel will take approximately 60 to 90 minutes but can increase to 2 hours or more during rush hour.
If you’d like to take public transport, we recommend using the HAVABUS bus service to Kadikoy and then taking the ferry to Eminounu. From there, it’s a short walk to your hotel.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. A single supplement is bookable if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip and is subject to availability. The single supplement excludes Day 3 & 4 (multi-share Guesthouse).
2. Some accommodation on this tour is is multi shared. Multishare typically includes triple and quad rooms with shared bathroom facilities instead of ensuite. You may be required to share with group members of same gender. People travelling together may occasionally be separated due to rooming configurations.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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