Discover the diverse heritage and natural beauty of Turkey on this 12-day journey across the country’s most iconic destinations. From ancient ruins to coastal towns, from mystical valleys to vibrant city streets, this itinerary brings together the cultural richness and scenic splendor of Turkey in one comprehensive experience.
What’s Included
- 3 nights accommodation in Istanbul
- 2 nights in Kusadasi
- 2 nights in Fethiye
- 2 nights in Antalya
- 2 nights in Cappadocia
- Domestic flights between cities
- Airport and hotel transfers
- Professional English-speaking tour guides
- Entry fees for scheduled visits
- Daily breakfasts and lunches on tour days
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Turkish entry visa
- Dinners and beverages during lunch
- Optional tours or balloon rides
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides and drivers
Highlights
- Starts and ends in Istanbul with 2 domestic flights included
- Explore Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar
- Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis
- Bathe in Pamukkale’s thermal pools and visit Hierapolis
- Sail through turquoise waters on a 12 Islands Boat Tour in Fethiye
- Ride the Tunektepe Cable Car and explore Antalya’s Old Town
- Visit the Mevlana Museum and a historical Silk Road caravanserai
- Explore Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, rock churches, and underground cities
- Capture stunning views from Uchisar Castle and Goreme Panorama
- All guided tours, airport transfers, and intercity transport included
Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW), a private driver will meet you for transfer to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy free time to relax or take a short walk in the area. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2: Old City Walking Tour
Begin your exploration in Sultanahmet, the historic center of Istanbul. Visit Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque for centuries. Continue to Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans and home to important relics and artifacts.
Walk through the ancient Hippodrome, once a center of social and political life in Byzantine times. Admire the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and blue Iznik tiles. Conclude the tour at the Grand Bazaar, where thousands of stalls offer handmade goods, spices, and souvenirs. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 3: Bosphorus Cruise and Flight to Izmir
After breakfast and checkout, begin your day with a visit to the Spice Bazaar, one of the oldest marketplaces in Istanbul. Next, board a Bosphorus cruise to enjoy views of Ottoman mansions, palaces, and waterfront neighborhoods.
Following the cruise, transfer to the airport for a short domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, your driver will take you to your hotel in Kusadasi. Overnight in Kusadasi.
Day 4: Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary
Start your day with a visit to the House of Virgin Mary, a peaceful shrine believed to be her final residence. Then, explore Ephesus, one of the best-preserved cities of the Roman world. Walk through ancient streets lined with temples, theaters, and baths.
See the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, which once hosted performances and gatherings of over 20,000 people. Finish the tour with a stop at the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Return to your hotel in Kusadasi.
Day 5: Pamukkale Tour and Transfer to Fethiye
After breakfast and hotel checkout, travel to Pamukkale, famous for its white travertine terraces created by mineral-rich thermal waters. Visit Hierapolis, an ancient city that includes a necropolis, Roman theater, and ancient baths.
You’ll also have time to experience the Cleopatra Pool, where submerged columns lie beneath thermal waters. After the tour, continue to Fethiye and check into your hotel. Overnight in Fethiye.
Day 6: 12 Islands Boat Tour
Set sail from Fethiye harbor on a full-day boat trip exploring the scenic 12 Islands. Swim in crystal-clear bays, relax on deck, and enjoy a freshly grilled lunch onboard. The tour includes several stops where you can snorkel, sunbathe, or explore small islands.
This boat tour offers a relaxing way to experience the Mediterranean coastline. Facilities on board include sunbeds, shaded areas, restrooms, and a bar. Return to your hotel in the evening. Overnight in Fethiye.
Note: Boat tours are available from May 1 to October 15. Outside this period, alternative tours can be arranged.
Day 7: Transfer to Antalya
After breakfast, check out and take a public bus from Fethiye to Antalya. The four-hour journey offers scenic views of the coastline and countryside. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel in Antalya. Enjoy free time in the afternoon. Overnight in Antalya.
Day 8: Antalya City Tour and Cable Car
Begin your day with a cable car ride to Tunektepe, offering panoramic views over Antalya and the Mediterranean. Next, visit the upper Duden Waterfalls, surrounded by lush parkland and walking paths.
After lunch with a scenic view, head to Kaleici, Antalya’s old town. Explore historical landmarks such as Hadrian’s Gate, the Clock Tower, and the Yivli Minaret. Enjoy free time for shopping or strolling through narrow streets before returning to your hotel. Overnight in Antalya.
Day 9: Konya and Journey to Cappadocia
Depart Antalya and travel to Konya. Visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the poet Rumi and his teachings of love and tolerance. Then, explore a centuries-old caravanserai, a resting place for travelers along the Silk Road.
Continue to Cappadocia and check into your hotel. The evening is free to rest or explore the village surroundings. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 10: Cappadocia North Tour
Start your guided tour at the Goreme Open-Air Museum, home to early Christian rock churches decorated with colorful frescoes. Visit Devrent Valley, known for its animal-shaped rock formations, and Pasabag (Monk’s Valley), where fairy chimneys tower over the landscape.
In Avanos, watch a pottery demonstration and try the craft yourself. Stop at scenic viewpoints like Goreme Panorama and Uchisar Castle, the highest point in the region. Return to your hotel and overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 11: Cappadocia South Tour and Return to Istanbul
Today’s tour starts in Red and Rose Valleys, popular for their colored rock layers and hiking trails. Continue to Cavusin Village, with ancient cave houses and churches. Walk through Pigeon Valley, famous for dovecotes carved into the cliffs.
Then, explore an underground city such as Kaymakli or Ozkonak. These multi-level shelters were built to protect local populations during times of danger.
Visit Ortahisar for its traditional homes and rock fortress. After the tour, transfer to the airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, your driver will take you to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 12: Departure from Istanbul
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Istanbul Airport. This concludes your 12-day tour of Turkey.
