Experience Overview
Spend six days discovering some of the best bits of central Turkey and Cappadocia. From the Mediterranean Sea in the south to the northern capital city of Istanbul, immerse yourself in the culture and history of a truly unique country. Explore Konya and maybe learn about the practices of Sufism and the art and performance of the whirling dervish. Spend three days in Cappadocia among the fairy chimneys and hot air balloons. Hike through the rocky landscape and natural sandstone monoliths, then make your way to Istanbul – the city that melds European and Middle Eastern cultures into one.
Highlights
- Dine in the home of a local family, where you’ll be treated to a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal and have the opportunity to learn about life in the desert.
- Explore the weird and wonderful world of Cappadocia – this might be the most unusual place in Turkey. Learn all about its fairy chimneys and sprawling rock formations from your expert local leader.
- Wander the warrens of underground cities, homes and churches carved straight into the sandstone of the Cappadocian desert, and maybe opt to gaze down at the city from above on a sunrise hot air balloon ride.
- The thriving metropolis of Istanbul is where East literally meets West. Discover the highlights and the history of this incredible city that melds the cultures of two continents.
- Learn about the history and culture that was born in Konya, from the teachings of Sufism to the art and skill of the whirling dervish.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1810
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Public Bus,Overnight Bus,Tram
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ERYC
Starts: Antalya / Konya, Turkey
Finishes: Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 6 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (4), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (4 nights),Overnight Bus (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $605 ($101 /day)
Itinerary
Merhaba! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure starts in Antalya where you’ll meet with your leader and new travel buddies for a welcome meeting at 8 am. When you’re all acquainted, jump on a bus with your group and make your way north to the city of Konya – the birthplace of Sufism (a religious belief and practice seeking the truth of divine love and knowledge) and the home of the famous whirling dervish. While you’re here, make sure you check out the Mevlana Museum – the former dervish school turned museum – where you can visit the mausoleum of Rumi – a famous Sufi poet. For dinner, your leader can give you the best insider recommendations, so make sure to ask them where to find the tastiest kebab.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, say farewell to Konya and hop on a bus to Cappadocia – home to strange rock formations, fairy chimneys and underground cities. Later in the morning, head underground and explore some of the 36 underground cities – these rabbit-warren metropolises were carved into the earth thousands of years ago. You’ll also have the opportunity to check out a traditional pottery demonstration with a local artisan, revealing all the secrets to creating the perfect ceramics. Tonight, a local family will welcome you and your group into their home for a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal. After, you might like to check out the nightlife in Goreme, or hit up a traditional sema performance of whirling dervishes.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
- Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home
- Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You may have seen the iconic hot air balloons over Cappadocia online, and this morning will be your chance to tick that epic sunrise experience off your bucket list. If you’re up for it, rise bright and early and head out and up as the sun rises over the otherworldly city. Heights not for you? There are tonnes of great viewing points around the city where you can grab some pics or a few selfies as the sky fills with balloons. Later in the day, discover the highlights of the region this afternoon, checking out Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley – your group leader will know all the best places to stop. Then, why not grab some wine and find a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset.
Included Activities:
- Cappadocia - Sunset Hike
- Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley
Optional Activities:
- Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath (60 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (260 EUR)
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (310 EUR)
- Goreme - Whirling dervish performance (30 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is your day to explore all that Cappadocia has to offer. If you’re keen to get out and stretch your legs, why not head out on the Red Valley Hike, which takes you through Meskindir and Rose Valley. The natural sharp sandstone structures glow in the sun, and the trail takes you through a cave church with excellently preserved wall frescoes. If hiking is not your thing, why not explore the markets and street vendors in town. There is a wealth of incredible Turkish handiwork on display, from ceramics to intricately woven carpets. Don't forget to check out the Goreme Open Air Museum, where you can explore the fairy chimneys, cave churches and ancient villages. Tonight, you’ll be hopping on an overnight bus to take you to Istanbul, so settle in and snooze the night away.
Optional Activities:
- Goreme - Open Air Museum (20 EUR)
- Goreme - Bike Riding (230 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Overnight Bus (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise and shine in Istanbul. Your overnight bus will arrive in the capital city of Turkey early this morning, so after dropping your bags at your hotel, the day is yours to explore. With your group, you’ll be heading off on a historical peninsula tour, where you’ll be shown all the best bits of Istanbul and get a lay of the land. Your tour includes all the essential highlights for every new traveller, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. After hunting down some lunch (borek and Turkish coffee, anyone?), why not explore this incredible city on foot and uncover some hidden gems. Tonight, check in with your leader for the best spots to grab dinner, and maybe rally the group to toast your adventure.
Included Activities:
- Istanbul - Historical Peninsula Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your group leader and travel pals. If you would like to spend more time checking out all Istanbul has to offer, your leader will be able to give you the best tips for making the most of your time in the city. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
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
Ching Hei - Traveled, March 2024
Would not recommend. This trip is like an RyanAir or Jetstar Flight. You'll think it's a good deal and sign up for it, but then you'll find anything that's worth adding to the trip will come out of your pocket and will end up costing a fortune. You won't be doing anything in Antalya and Konya as you'll end up there at night - so forget doing anything there. The Ceramics Workshop section is rip-off - you'll find the things they sell elsewhere for a fraction of the price. They have original piece but those cost as much as the tour. Just plan a trip yourself and start in Cappadocia or Istanbul, you'll probs get more for your money that way.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/04/2024
Chelsea - Traveled, October 2023
Our experience in Cappadocia was incredible, it is a magical place. Unfortunately the entire first day is on a bus (12 hours), which was very exhausting and boring. The last day doesn’t include official tour time in Istanbul, so the ‘5-Day Cappadocia tour’ is really only 3 days plus 2 very long bus-rides. Most activities require additional cost, so became very expensive. Overall it was a great experience!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/30/2023
Catherine - Traveled, October 2023
A lovely trip and amazing way to see Cappadocia. We joined in with a tour from Istanbul but our host and the people were really welcoming. Taha (host) was amazing. Would recommend!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Amber - Traveled, September 2023
The trip was incredible! I would definitely recommend going! The location is stunning, and the hot air balloon is a once in a lifetime experience, the underground city was incredible to see, but above all that our tour guide llter was amazing!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2023
Rachel - Traveled, August 2023
This tour is a great way to spend time in Cappadocia and do the sunrise balloons. Be aware that you are joining onto an already established Intrepid trip however it is still a good way to meet new people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/30/2023
Maxim - Traveled, July 2023
The Real Turkey tour, was a great experience to learn the intricate culture and history of Turkiye. The tour guide Ziver provided an exceptional service and was a very welcoming individual to talk to on the tour, his knowledge on the sites was great and that too made the tour great.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/27/2023
Mika - Traveled, September 2022
Tour leader Beykan was not very thorough for this trip, seemed like we were organizing everything, seemed like we were taking care of him instead of the other way around. We did not enjoy him as our tour leader. Seemed like we were frequently left questioning what the plan was, he seemed a bit absent as a tour leader. He didnt seem to care about the enjoyment of the group, just doing the bare minimum possible. The cappadocia hot air balloon ride was cancelled, and when we asked if we could try again for the next two days, he said it was fully booked for the next month. But when we went directly to the booking agents they told us there were spaces available and were able to take the balloon ride despite what our tour leader had said. The airport transfer that he organized did not come. I waited for an hour for the transfer and during this time he was not answering his phone at all. I had to discuss and organize another ride to the airport with the hotel staff (thankfully they were very helpful). Was very stressed about missing my flight at this time. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but to be honest the tour leader made it less enjoyable than it could have been.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/25/2022
Emma - Traveled, September 2022
My tour to cappadocia turnt into a joyful experience with our tourleader Ekrim! Extraordinary engaged and full of knowledge.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2022
Tori - Traveled, August 2022
Cheap, but some things are worth paying more. Overnight bus was a 15 hour bus that went overnight. Pretty uncomfortable and were told there would only be 2 stops. If you needed to use the toilette that was your problem because the bus isnt stopping. “Just don't drink any water for the day”. Plans changed every day. The sunset with cheese and wine you actually pay for yourself. First thing tour leader asks you is for more money. Very all over the place. Would think twice before booking
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2022
Elaine - Traveled, July 2022
What an opportunity to experience the beautiful, unique scenery of Cappadocia. The landscape and sightseeing were definitely the highlight of the trip. A close second would be meeting the locals who were so warm and friendly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/02/2022
Teanu - Traveled, April 2022
I really enjoyed my trip to Cappadocia. The other people on the trip were very friendly and fun. Our guide, Alp, was excellent. He had good food recommendations for the duration of our trip. And, he did a great job coordinating the included and extra activities. Goreme and Cappadocia were beautiful. The cave hotel was a very unique experience that distinguished Cappadocia from many other places I've been to. The five-day trip was well-paced. Our days were full but not overwhelming.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/19/2022
WINGGA - Traveled, July 2024
My first every solo trip was unforgettable! I knew Intrepid will nail it but this is just beyond my expectation! Beykan is the best Tour Guide I ever had!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2024
Katrina - Traveled, July 2024
Short but sweet trip! Really loved my first Intrepid experience in Türkiye, lots of fun, fascinating history and the beautiful Cappadocia and magical Istanbul were both incredible. The experience wouldn't have been the same if it was not led by the passionate Beykan, who really ensured complete satisfaction, by going above and beyond. I hope to return to Türkiye soon to discover more of what the beautiful country has to offer. Thank you Intrepid and Beykan for such pleasurable memories!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/21/2024
Etta - Traveled, July 2024
This was a great trip! Bucket list items were ticked off ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/20/2024
Charlie - Traveled, July 2024
This trip was such a unique experience which I would totally recommend to anyone looking to solo travel or travel in a group without having to think about what to do or where to go! Great service
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/19/2024
Grace - Traveled, July 2024
Amazing to meet lots of likeminded travellers. This trip is good if you want to see a different side of Turkey however there is a lot of time on buses and travelling to each destination. I would recommend this trip and had an amazing time
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/14/2024
Hafsah - Traveled, July 2024
An unforgettable trip and a great way to explore Turkiye in a short period of time. Our guide, Kivanç, was amazing! He was really charismatic, kind, and helpful with all his knowledge and recommendations. It’s a well-paced trip and Cappadocia was definitely a highlight. I would highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2024
kerri - Traveled, May 2024
This tour was incredible. 100% worth the money especially if you get the discount price but even the full price is worth it. Tour guide Beykan was absolutely incredible! really recommend this to anyone wanting to see turkey! Just be wary of the overnight bus as it was not for everyone!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/01/2024
Ashley - Traveled, May 2024
This trip was the perfect introduction to Turkey. Our guide Beykan was also very knowledgeable and approachable. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a nominal, authentic, and culturally driven tour to Turkey.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/31/2024
Irshaad - Traveled, April 2024
This is great tour that provides a good mix of included activities and free time. This is a great amount of time to see the places listed on the tour. Well worth it, and highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/13/2024
Amanda - Traveled, March 2024
Amazing trip and unforgettable memories in a country which is full of deep history, with an Intrepid community that was incredibly friendly for a solo traveller! I would like to thank Ata for making this trip memorable evoked through his passionate storytelling of Turkish culture and history. Rather than a tour guide, it felt like we had a friend on board with us!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
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