Premium Turkey in Depth
Experience Overview
Get to right into the heart of Turkish culture on this 15-day Premium adventure. Discover stunning islands and a sunken city on a locally guided boat cruise, get hands-on in a Turkish cooking class using homegrown ingredients and join a local woman in her home for a specially prepared feast. Take guided tours of Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Antalya and more, and marvel at diverse landscapes, from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the glittering Mediterranean Coast. With the option to take a hot air balloon at sunrise over the incredible landscapes of Cappadocia and some free time to make your own discoveries, you’ll fall in love with Turkey in just two weeks.
Highlights
- Join an experienced local leader as you stroll the ancient streets of Ephesus, uncover the secrets of Phaselis, explore the legendary ruins of Troy and discover Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and the Million.
- Enjoy a cruise around the hidden coves and islets of Turkey’s southern coast during an Exclusive Experience guided by a local couple who have been navigating the waters for years.
- Feast your eyes on the best of Turkey's otherworldly sights, from the Cotton Castle of Pamukkale to the psychedelic rock-scapes of Cappadocia.
- Step into a fairy tale during your Feature Stay at a unique cave hotel in Cappadocia, where you’ll enjoy elegantly decorated rooms carved from stone. Then, if you like, take a hot air balloon over the otherworldly landscape at sunrise.
- Get to know the real Turkey on Exclusive Experiences, including a cooking class with an expert chef, a visit to an empowering carpet weaving cooperative and a traditional dinner at a local's home in Cappadocia.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, CYDD (Çağdaş Yaşamı Destekleme Derneği). Donations help them provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1794
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle,Boat,Plane
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ERPT
Starts: Istanbul, Turkey
Finishes: Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14), Lunch (1), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (11 nights),Feature Stay (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5,895 ($393 /day)
Itinerary
Hoş geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins in Istanbul – the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have all once called home. If arriving today, you’ll have a complimentary transfer to your hotel from the airport. If you arrive early, maybe grab lunch at one of the city’s many eateries. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 1 pm. After, you’ll head out with your local leader and small group to explore the Old City of Istanbul. Your leader will introduce you to some of the city’s historic treasures, including the dazzling Blue Mosque, the ancient Hippodrome and the Million – a stone road marker in use since the fourth century. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers over dinner at a stylish restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul - City Tour
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit
- Istanbul - Welcome Dinner
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities:
- Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) (2000 TRY)
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine for an early breakfast, then begin the drive to Canakkale – a port city located on the shores of the Dardanelles. Arrive in time to buy yourself some lunch, then head to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Thousands from across the world journey here each year to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the battles of 1915. Tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Head up to the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair while your leader explains the significance of the events across the landscape. Look down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for thousands of young men on both sides. After a day that will no doubt be full of sombre reflection, the evening is free for you to do as you wish in Canakkale.
Included Activities:
- Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair
Accommodation:
- Cura Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Drive to Selçuk and stop along the way in Troy, where history and mythology sit side by side. Your leader will take you around the ancient city walls – there will be time for a photo op with a replica Trojan horse. Learn how the site has confounded historians and archaeologists, then continue to Selçuk. Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, join your leader for an orientation walk around this sprawling town at the base of the ancient Ayasoluk Hill fortress. You’ll visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis, and the ancient aqueducts.
Included Activities:
- Troy - Archaeological site visit
- Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Celsus Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, visit one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world – Ephesus. Learn from your leader what life here was like as you tour the ancient theatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and restored Library of Celsus. Later, drive past apple and peach orchards to the quaint village of Sirince, where charming, red-roofed houses clamber up the hillside. Drop by a local wine house where you’ll taste locally produced fruit wines. Try a sip of kiwi, pear, peach, quince or all the above. Next, you’ll meet a local chef for a Turkish cooking class, using olive oil grown and made on-site and herbs and vegetables picked fresh from the garden. Learn how to make a range of small Turkish meze dishes using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labour with an evening dinner of the mouth-watering meze plates you’ve made together.
Included Activities:
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
- Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
- Selcuk - Cooking class
Optional Activities:
- Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum (10 EUR)
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Celsus Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast this morning, travel to the town of Pamukkale. Named after its incredible travertine terraces, Pamukkale means ‘cotton castle.’ This spectacular natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming a collection of pools and terraces. As the water overflows, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that, from afar, resemble cotton or snow. The pools are filled with waters that many believe have healing properties for circulation and the digestive system. Head up to the ruins of Hierapolis – an important Roman bath centre founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BC, where your leader will bring history to life and guide you through an ancient temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica, necropolis and an impressive theatre. You then have the evening free to spend how you wish.
Included Activities:
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Accommodation:
- Hierapark Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Make the journey to the coastal town of Kas (meaning ‘eyebrow’) and begin exploring on a walking tour. Now primarily a holiday town, Kas is strewn with the remains of Lycian tombs, iconic, whitewashed walls covered with climbing bougainvillea and an ancient theatre where you can watch a spectacular sunset. The walk is sure to inspire your appetite, and your leader will be on hand to show you where to grab a great gozleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread). The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this easy-going town – maybe sit back with a pomegranate cocktail or check out the local markets.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Payam Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off for a boat cruise around the islands today, with a local family who use their unique knowledge and love of the local waters to share a distinctly traditional way of cruising and eating with travellers. Cruise to their home village of Ucagiz, then to the village of Simena, where its friendly inhabitants sell ice cream in front of bougainvillea-covered houses. On board, you’ll enjoy a range of freshly prepared local greens, zucchini fritters and maybe even some Turkish raki. Sail from large bays to protected inlets where you can cool off with a swim in turquoise waters. Kick back with a cold beer or learn how to play backgammon – Turkey’s most beloved game. Look out for the ruins of an ancient city submerged under the clear water. Return to Kas for an evening at your leisure.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch
Accommodation:
- Payam Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel from Kas on a scenic route, stopping first at the ancient city of Phaselis. There you’ll have the chance to stretch your legs exploring the Roman ruins, or freshen up with a swim in the ocean. Then, continue to Anatalya. Your accommodation is tucked away near the beach, but you may want to get out to explore Kaleici (the Old City) once you settle in. Head out on an early evening walk to see Hadrian's Gate, the Old Roman Harbour and all the photo-worthy views. Soak up the city’s Mediterranean atmosphere and attitude over a fresh seafood dinner – your leader can recommend some superb spots.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Leader-led orientation walk
- Antalya - Phaselis Ancient City
Accommodation:
- Dogan Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Wake up in beautiful Antalya and start your day with a guided visit through the Antalya Museum. The province of Antalya includes dozens of important ancient Hellenistic and Roman cities, and some of the best artefacts are on display in the museum’s 13 exhibition halls and open-air gallery. The afternoon is then free for you to explore as you wish. If you’d like, your leader can help you to arrange your own trip to the ancient city of Perge. Or maybe wander the narrow cobblestoned streets of Kaleici with an ice cream in hand, beat the heat with a dip in the sea or chill out poolside.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Antalya Museum
Accommodation:
- Dogan Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to Antalya and take a morning drive to Konya – an ancient city important in the Roman era and where the Sufi practice of 'whirling' was born. When you arrive, discover the mystic resting place of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, the 13th-century mystic, poet and theologian whose teachings continue to inspire and influence Muslims worldwide. Visit the small museum dedicated to his life and work. The rest of the day is free to get to know the city. Konya offers a wealth of museums, mosques and monuments worth visiting, so be sure to ask your leader for recommendations. For a leisurely afternoon, head to Alaeddin Hill, where locals sip coffee, eat pastries and let the hours slip by in peace.
Included Activities:
- Konya - Mevlana Museum
Accommodation:
- Selcuk Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Konya and travel to Cappadocia, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk to get to know your new surroundings. Check in to your Feature Stay accommodation, where you’ll feel miles away from the modern world in a cave hotel that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. These unique rooms are carved into stone, featuring elegant décor and modern conveniences. Your leader can provide advice on exploring nearby villages. Keep an eye out for hot air balloons passing overhead and head out for a drink to watch the sunset over one of the world’s more iconic places. The rest of the evening is free for you to take it all in, or you could opt for a performance of whirling by local Dervishes in a restored han (caravansary).
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cappadocia - Sunset drinks
Optional Activities:
- Goreme - Whirling dervish performance (30 EUR)
Accommodation:
- HU of Cappadocia or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)
Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the ethereal Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. After a relaxing breakfast overlooking the valley, step back in time with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum. See the incredible houses, churches and monasteries carved out of the soft cliff face as your leader shares stories of the civilisations who lived here. Next, you’ll visit a carpet weaving cooperative that empowers women by giving them the tools to produce one-of-a-kind traditional rugs. Hear local insight into the history of traditional carpet weaving and see how the intricate pieces are made. Later in the afternoon, go on a short walk through the cheekily named Love Valley, which is famous for its phallic rock formations. Then, head back to your hotel and perhaps take an optional Turkish bath to unwind at the end of the day.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Valley walk
- Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
- Cappadocia - Carpet weaving co-op
Optional Activities:
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (275 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (325 EUR)
Accommodation:
- HU of Cappadocia or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a morning walk to see the fascinating rock formations of the Kizilcukur Valley. After lunch, head toward the red river of Avanos and descend to Ozkonak, where you’ll explore an underground city hollowed out of tufa rock that dates back to 400 BC. Return to the surface and visit the studio of a local ceramic master whose family have been in the pottery business for six generations. Speak with a local artist who will explain the history and techniques of traditional Turkish ceramics. Discover the rich clay from the red river and watch how it is moulded into exquisite pieces. This evening you’ll be warmly welcomed into the home of a local family who will prepare a special homecooked dinner for your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your affable host and top off the night with some Turkish delight.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
- Cappadocia - Ozkonak Underground City
- Cappadocia - Kizilcukur Valley
- Cappadocia - Home-cooked dinner
Accommodation:
- HU of Cappadocia or similar (Feature Stay) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, say goodbye to Cappadocia and return to where it all began – Istanbul. When you arrive, you may wish to explore the European side of the city or perhaps take trip across the Bosphorus to the Asian side of the city. Either way, you’ll find lively, close-knit communities and jumbles of cute cafes, markets and restaurants. Your Leader will be able to provide advice on things to see and do. This evening, consider rounding off your adventure by joining your group for an optional farewell dinner at one of Istanbul’s excellent restaurants.
Accommodation:
- Fer Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you wish to spend some more time in Istanbul, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Chloe - Traveled, October 2023
What a great way to spend another Thanksgiving with a different form of Turkey. We had an amazing and friendly guide, Pinar. Who always made sure the group was ok and was super knowledgeable about the history of Turkey and the ruins. Turkey is a huge country and you will be spending a lot of time in the car so be sure to be ready to sit. I left the trip smiling, with new friends and family. Thank you Pinar and Turkey!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Terry - Traveled, September 2023
The experiences and adventures in the itinerary were exceptional and significantly enhanced my appreciation, understanding and knowledge of Turkey. It was a special blend of history, geography, art and culture. Our guide, Tarik, was second to none and truly made the trip a standout. The tour was a lot of fun and very interesting.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2023
Bernadette - Traveled, September 2023
Tarik, our guide/leader, of Premium Türkiye Highlights made this 15 day experience magical and memorable. Each day was filled with history, culture, and carefully curated goosebump moments that we will forever cherish.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/13/2023
Derek - Traveled, September 2023
This itinerary offered an excellent insight into the cradle of civilisation. With a well informed guide and first rate hotels this tour had everything for the history buff without being too academic with the option of some adventurous side events. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Louise - Traveled, September 2023
I got to explore some great sites in Turkey and our guide, Ozgur, really knew how to present his country. Especially the food! The highlights for me, were the balloon ride in Cappadocia, the day on the boat in Kaz and seeing the ruins of Troy and many great Roman cities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Evan - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip with a great leader, great people and great views. Recommended to anyone
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2023
Sonia - Traveled, October 2023
A trip that would make you fall im love with turkey and leave you with wanting to go back again. The itinerary covers the best of the best giving you time to soak up the culture and history of turkiye. Semih the trip guide made it even better with his in depth knowledge about the history and culture of this amazing country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Ann - Traveled, October 2023
Turkey came as a delightful surprise. It is hard to describe the stunning living history of the various civilisations, sitting beside a modern clean safe friendly environment
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/07/2023
Susan - Traveled, October 2023
This trip was excellent. It was exactly as described in the Essential Trip information, with a couple long days driving which were well broken up with interesting sites and clean rest stops. Our guide Busra was excellent and made the trip an experience of a lifetime. Turkiye and a beautiful country and its people are warm and welcoming.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/11/2023
Pamela - Traveled, October 2023
Our guide, Tarik, is the gold standard in tour leaders. His historical knowledge is phenomenal. He always had excellent suggestion for lunch and dinner, and frequently accompanied us, instead of leaving us to find our own places to eat. He was always smiling, helpful, considerate and kind. I can't fault him in any way. Our driver Yilmas(not sure of the spelling) was accomplished and punctual.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/01/2023
Arantxa - Traveled, October 2023
Overall an excellent trip! Our guide Pinar, was knowledgeable, kind and always helpful. Turkey is a beautiful country - delish food, kind people, history, and I especially loved the Mediterranean part (Selcuk, Kas) as well as Cappadocia. The hotels (minus 2) were satisfactory, and could have been better selected! Would recommend this one for sure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Christine - Traveled, September 2023
This was an excellent trip. I would recommend it to anyone considering Turkey and wants as a well rounded, compete experience in the country. I would caution anyone signing up as a twin share to make sure that the hotels Intrepid has contracted are actually going to provide adequate accommodation. On our trip the signature stay was at Des Suites, a cave hotel. Our accommodation consisted of a palatial king bed and a cot or day bed. Not my idea of a twin share (2 beds of equal or similar quality!). I was not impressed…
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
Valerie - Traveled, September 2023
This tour is wonderful. Hits all the high points in Turkey. We had wonderful accommodations and the tour guide made the trip so much fun. Highly recommend it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2023
Maree - Traveled, August 2023
Had a fabulous 15 days on this Turkey tour with a fun , very knowledgeable and helpful guide Mete . Highly recommend this tour and guide
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
gayelene - Traveled, August 2023
My first experience with Intrepid is definitely not going to be my last. I was on the Turkey premium and the Amazing Mete made a huge impact upon the whole experience
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Kerry - Traveled, August 2023
First trip to Turkey our tour guide Can DEMIR opened our eyes to the beauty & history of this country . Accomodation , transport & meals supplied were excellent
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023
Kuganesan - Traveled, August 2023
Overall my journey i enjoyed the trip. Well prepared and safe trip. I never hesitate to use intrepid again for my next trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Lisa - Traveled, July 2023
Turkey exceeded all expectations. Highlights include the hot air balloons in Cappadocia, Istanbul (the whole city) such a vibrant place, the mediterrianean region (Kas and Antalya) the food was second to none and lastly the rich culture! A Intrepid tour made the logistics simple and easy, which only left one thing to do, sit back, relax and enjoy ??????????
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/02/2023
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