Map of Essential Turkey including Turkey

Gettin’ quirky on the coast of Turkey.

You’ll be hard-pressed finding a country that can provide all the goods of a cultural crusade – ancient ruins to explore, alluring beaches to swim at, local food to indulge in, lively cities to discover, and plenty of time to travel at your own pace. Get the essential low-down of everything Turkish on this 11-day cultural adventure from Istanbul, through the peaceful Gallipoli peninsula, acclaimed Ephesus, traditional Selcuk, seaside Fethiye through to attractive Antalya. With some south coast cruising, hot springs and ghost towns all thrown in, you’ll be seeing Turkey in a whole new light.

This trip is for 18 to 29-year-olds

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Terms & Conditions

Start
Istanbul, Turkey
Finish
Antalya, Turkey
Destination
Turkey
Style
Basix
Theme
18 to 29s
Code
ERYT
Physical rating
Ages
Min 18, Max 29
Group size
Min 1, Max 16

Travel solo, together

You're never alone when travelling solo with Intrepid

Why you'll love this trip

  • Eat, swim, sunbake, 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.

  • Thought all the best Roman ruins were in Italy? Think again! Turkey is home to one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus – so discover it just like Anthony and Cleopatra did 2000 years ago.

  • Take a group hike from the deserted ghost town of Karakoy over the hills to check out the stunning Blue Lagoon – your group leader will know all the spots to go to get the best vantage points.

  • Pay your respects of the battles fought and lives lost in Anzac Cove in Gallipoli. This once war-torn stretch of coastline is now a peaceful reminder of times past.

  • 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.

Is this trip right for you?

  • You’ll get an extra taste of local life on this trip, with most travel done on public buses. There are loads of reasons why this is great, but here are just a few: it minimises our carbon footprint, gives you a real chance to interact with the local community, and these aren’t your regular buses. 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) – a great way to mingle with locals and discover unexpected delights! This trip puts it in your hands with the options of free time or taking optional tours. 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. Please note that you'll also have to carry your own luggage on and off the bus, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential Trip Information’ section.

  • Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! 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. 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.

  • While this trip doesn't require a high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to take part in all activities. You’ll need your walking shoes, a hat, some sunscreen, and a daypack to explore the historical sites. All site tours are guided, but you can wander at your own pace if you prefer.

  • Bring your best sweater along, as temperatures in April and October can be a bit cooler than you might expect, especially in the evenings.

Itinerary

Kick off your Turkish adventure in Istanbul – the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and now you – for one night, at least – have called home. You’ve got all of today to explore the capital city before you join up with your travel crew and group leader at an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. Until then, maybe get out into the city streets to see the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar and stunning Aya Sofya. Your accommodation is right in the thick of the action, so you won’t have to walk far for your first kebab. After the meeting, why not head out on an optional group dinner – a good introduction to some fabulous Turkish cuisine is in a street-side cafe.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts - TRY200
  • Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free
  • Istanbul - Galata Tower - TRY175
  • Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) - TRY50
  • Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - TRY200
  • Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - Free
  • Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show - TRY400
  • Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) - EUR100
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information 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 can't arrange a flight in time, you may wish to arrive a day early, so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Optional Activities listed are all entry only. Please note there is an Istanbul Museum Pass available for purchase at most Istanbul Museums. This card is valid for five days’ use and costs TL 185. This card is not available for entry at Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern and Galata Tower.
Today you’ll take a bus to the shores of Gallipoli (approximately 5.5 hours) – a significant peninsula for Australians and New Zealanders. It is a spot of pilgrimage for many to see the now calm waters and peaceful landscape that reside where such a brutal battle took place during the First World War. Take in the reverence and serenity of the region, and hear stories of heroism and mateship that shone through the tragedies of war. Continue onwards to Canakkale where you’ll spend the night. This city has a young local vibe due to it being a popular university town, so chill on the edge of the Dardanelles with a drink or check out a local band with some of your travel pals.
Accommodation
  • Guest house (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Today, there's the option this morning to take an excursion out to the ruins of Troy, where you can explore the ancient walls, climb around the 4500-year-old ruins, check out the Trojan horse statue and gaze across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Later on, drive down the coast to Ayvalik (approximately 3.5 hours). Head on a leader-led orientation tour to discover a town that’s a fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish cultures. For lunch, snack on a local Ayvalik tost – think a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings. Check out the cobblestone backstreets, beautiful houses and lively cafes. You could also hop on a boat from Ayvalik to Cunda Island, which is filled with Greek Orthodox churches and known for its dairy farming. The town is set around a harbour and looks out to the Aegean Islands, so what better way to kick off the evening than with a drink at a harbour-side bar.
Accommodation
  • Guest house (multi-share) (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Troy - Guided visit - EUR40
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
This morning, take a 4-hour journey by local bus to the traditional farming village of Selcuk. Once arrived, take an orientation walk to get your bearings – a town full of history and packed with artefacts and relics that reflect its past as an ancient fortress. Later you can head out to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Marc Anthony 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, a brothel and Roman baths. The theatre is also well preserved, but it’s the magnificent 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. Chill out tonight in Selcuk, where you could try some Turkish meze and raki for dinner with some of your travel crew.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
Optional Activities
  • Selcuk - Basilica of St John - TRY100
  • Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - TRY170
  • Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) entrance fee - TRY120
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Travel east inland to Pamukkale (approximately 4 hours), which literally translates to 'cotton castle'. Here, spectacular natural hot springs with a high calcium content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, leaving bright white terraces, or ‘cotton’. It's been used as a spa since the second century BC, and its waters are said to have heaps of healing properties. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, then maybe choose to head out to the ancient city of Hierapolis and take a dip in what used to be her old pool – the transparent water-filled springs sculpted as a gift from Marc to Cleo. You can also check out the other ruins of the city – Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheatre shouldn’t be missed.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Optional Activities
  • Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - TRY110
  • Pamukkale - Cleopatra Ancient Pool - TRY100
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Jump on a local bus bound for Fethiye (approximately 5 hours). Arrive in time to check out this seriously vibrant harbourside city, and if there’s time, catch a dolmus to Saklikent Gorge or explore the back streets of the Old Town of Fethiye and hunt for a bargain. The best thing is – you’ve got the power to decide. Tonight, enjoy a walk by the harbour with your group, try some local seafood and check out the thriving nightlife scene.
Accommodation
  • Hostel (multi-share) (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Saklikent National Park - Saklikent Gorge - TRY20
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
This morning, travel to the eerie ghost town of Kayakoy. Wander through deserted stone houses and through the overgrown countryside, and be sure to watch out for the goats. You’ll be setting off on a hike today, so make sure you’re wearing some good shoes. From Kayakoy, continue by foot over the hills to catch a glimpse of the amazing Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz. Once arrived in town, hang out for a bit, quench your thirst and take a swim in the sparkling Mediterranean before jumping back on a local bus and heading back to Kayakoy for tonight. Chill out and enjoy an included dinner in Koyakoy.
Accommodation
  • Guest house (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lycian Way - Hike from Kayakoy to Oludeniz Beach
  • Kayakoy - Ghost Village
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Special Information
Fires over the last few years have caused several temporary closures of sections of the Lycian Way at very short notice. Should this occur a different activity will be arranged.
This morning take a local bus back to Fethiye and then continue on local bus to Kas (approximately 3 hours), which is right near the southernmost point of Turkey. With its whitewashed buildings covered in bougainvillea and cobbled streets, Kas is one of the most attractive towns on the Turkish Mediterranean Coast. Spend an hour or two lunching and wandering the streets, before you transfer an hour down the road to Kekova. After arrival and settling down, follow your leader on an orientation walk around the town. Then it’s a free night to spend as you wish.
Accommodation
  • Guest house (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Get ready for a fascinating day out cruising and exploring off the Turkish coast. Cruise onwards to the sunken Lycian city of Simena, from where remains of a mysterious civilisation can be viewed, as earthquakes sunk this land almost 2500 years ago. Here you can walk up to nearby Simena Castle, swim in crystal-clear waters, or explore Lycian rock-tombs. More swimming, sunbaking, eating and repeating – cruising the Turkish coast is a dream. Get back to Kekova in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day in this idyllic town.
Accommodation
  • Guest house (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kekova - Turkish Coast day sailing
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
After breakfast, hope on a public bus (approximately 3.5 hours) to Antalya – the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya due to it's charming cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. Head around town with your group leader, 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 use it to your advantage.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Antalya - Walking Tour including Nostalgic Tram
Optional Activities
  • Antalya - Antalya Museum - TRY90
  • Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City - TRY100
  • Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY70
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation at any time after breakfast, provided you comply with your accommodation’s internal check-out times.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Meals

10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner

Transport

Ferry, local bus, Private Bus, Train, Boat

Accommodation

Hotel (5 nights), Guest house (3 nights), Multi-share guest house/hostel (2 nights)

Included activities

  • Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
  • Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
  • Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
  • Lycian Way - Hike from Kayakoy to Oludeniz Beach
  • Kayakoy - Ghost Village
  • Kekova - Turkish Coast day sailing
  • Antalya - Walking Tour including Nostalgic Tram

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Essential Turkey trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. A single supplement is bookable if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip, subject to availability. The single supplement exclude Day 3 and Day 6.
2. Some accommodation on this tour is is multi shared. Multishare typically includes triple and quad rooms. You may be required to share with group members of same gender. People travelling together may occasionally be separated due to rooming configurations.

Essential trip information

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.

View Essential Trip Information

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