Essential Turkey
Experience Overview
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, Cleopatra 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.
Highlights
- 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 just like Cleopatra and Marc Antony did 2000 years ago – 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.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1813
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Ferry,Local bus,Private Bus,Boat,Tram
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ERYT
Starts: Istanbul, Turkey
Finishes: Antalya, Turkey
Duration: 10 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (9), Lunch (2),Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights),Pension (3 nights),Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,196 ($120 /day)
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.
Optional Activities:
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free
- Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) (200 TRY)
- Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show (1500 TRY)
- Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) (100 EUR)
- Istanbul - Galata Tower (30 EUR)
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
- Istanbul - Archaeology Museum (15 EUR)
- Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (17 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
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.
Included Activities:
- Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
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).
Included Activities:
- Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)
- Ayvalik – Orientation Walk
Optional Activities:
- Troy - Guided visit (27 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)
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!””
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)
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.
Included Activities:
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
Optional Activities:
- Selcuk - Basilica of St John (6 EUR)
- Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) (15 EUR)
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
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. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy a dip in what used to be her old pool, soaking in the transparent springs that were sculpted for her as a gift from Marc. 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. If you're lucky, tonight you might catch an epic sunset from the acropolis.
Included Activities:
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Optional Activities:
- Pamukkale - Cleopatra Ancient Pool (340 TRY)
- Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, make 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.
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
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.
Included Activities:
- Kas - Turkish Coast day sailing
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
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.
Included Activities:
- Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour
Optional Activities:
- Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici (250 TRY)
- Antalya - Antalya Museum (15 EUR)
- Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City (15 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
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.
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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
Gilda - Traveled, October 2023
Would highly recommend this tour. A great way to experience the Turkish coast and amazing historic sites. Taha was an incredible guide, going above and beyond to ensure we had the best possible experience and teaching us about the local culture and history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023
Alex - Traveled, October 2023
The trip was overall really great! We got to see a lot of places and the tour involved quite a few activities. Just be mindful that it is very fast pace with one night in each place for the first week or so, however the itinerary does specify this.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/26/2023
Bryan - Traveled, September 2023
Essential Turkey was an amazing tour. Loved the mix of history, adventure, and cultural experiences. The rest of the group and tour guide Taha were awesome people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2023
Arthur - Traveled, September 2023
Taha was the best guide, we didn’t have to worry about anything. I made a friend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2023
Dylan - Traveled, September 2023
The itinerary provided a mix of historical / cultural sites with relaxation and leisure. Our guide Cumhur Ilter provided excellent advice to authentic local restaurants and bars. He found the perfect balance of being a professional guide and a fellow traveller.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Isabelle - Traveled, August 2023
Trip exceeded all my expectations! So fun, had lots of busy days exploring and chill days on a boat and the beach. Ilter was the best tour guide, the tour definitely wouldn’t have been as perfect without him!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2023
Aidan - Traveled, August 2023
A full experience of Turkey, true views of the culture and country and I’m blown away with how well it was organised, I advise anyone to do this tour if you’re interested in Turkey.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/31/2023
Piper - Traveled, August 2023
This trip is incredible, I can’t recommend more highly! The itinerary is a perfect balance of beach, culture and stunning scenery, plus all of Türkiye’s very best food. Really well organised and the guides are so knowledgeable and prepared with all the best recommendations for things to do and places to eat (shoutout to Fey for being the absolute BEST in the business). 10/10 loved everything about this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/31/2023
Vanessa - Traveled, August 2023
This trip covers it all! An excellent intro to the west coast of Turkey. I loved the historical sites and sailing day. Exceeded expectations!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/30/2023
Brodie - Traveled, August 2023
The Essential Turkey tour was fantastic! It was fast paced but the transport was efficient and comfortable and it meant we got to see a lot of the country in a short time. All of the inclusions were great, particularly the tours of Ephesus and Pammukkale + the day boat trip. We had a fun group and our tour leader Pinar was amazing, very good at her job and made us feel at ease throughout.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2023
Conrad - Traveled, July 2023
Essential Turkey gives you the perfect lens into one of the most culturally fascinating countries in the world. Expect awesome history, amazing food, and beautiful seaside tourism. Our guide Emre was simply the best and our group couldn’t have been closer!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/31/2023
Andy - Traveled, July 2023
The intrepid tour was the first tour i have partaken in. Our guide, Ziver, made the entire two weeks feel like a 3 day tour. i cannot thank him more. love always Z xo
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2023
Anna - Traveled, July 2023
Awesome, fast paced trip. I would recommend doing this in cooler months as included activities and some transport were very hot. Our tour guide Zavir was super helpful and approachable. Accomodation was great and got to experience many sides of Turkey.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2023
Audrey - Traveled, July 2023
Turkey is by far one of the most beautiful countries I have traveled to - after this trip I have a new found appreciation for the friendly people and beautiful sights that Turkey offers! The county really does have everything! Also our guide Ziver was a delight - making us laugh and smile for the whole trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/22/2023
Devika - Traveled, June 2023
Had an amazing experience in this tour, our leader Oz and the group was amazing! The variety of activities and amount of free time was perfect, we explored a lot but never felt overwhelmed. Highly recommend this tour (try doing Real Turkey so you can visit Cappadocia too).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/09/2023
Zaid - Traveled, May 2023
What an amazing trip overall. Our tour guide Samih was excellent (set the bar high for other tour guides as it was my first guided trip aha) really fun group of people that came along. Also have to note that you might have to tag along for the optional tours due to transport arrangements- however you can always explore the cafes and markets around that area instead if you don't feel like doing the optional activity (as I did in my case) so very accommodating in that aspect. will definitely be doing more of these in future!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/05/2023
Isabella - Traveled, April 2023
On this trip, you get a local insight as you get to enjoy home cooked meals (vegan friendly), hang out with many dogs & cats and experience a piece of history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2023
Aasha - Traveled, April 2023
Overall good experience, turkey was an amazing county and I really enjoyed going in a smaller group with other travelers. However, the trip wasn't super organized and there was a lot of travel time. I also would not recommend getting an airport transfer this was a waste of my money, taxis are cheaper and will be organized better.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/02/2023
Brittany - Traveled, April 2023
My trip to Türkiye was absolutely amazing. It is such a beautiful country with so much rich history. Our guide and guides in training were fabulous - so helpful and knowledgeable. They kept us safe and made things fun. I also made some lovely friends and we were always laughing. I’ll never forget it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2023
Felipe - Traveled, August 2022
This was probably the best trip I’ve ever taken. Experienced so much more of Turkey than I would have on my own. This trip wouldn’t be the same without my tour guide, Ekrem Aydin, and my tour group. So glad I chose this tour, I learned so much about a place I knew so little about!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/07/2022
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