On this 9-day group tour from Istanbul, discover the highlights of this historic city, including the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara and marvel at the white cotton castles of Pamukkale. This flexible tour allows you to join optional excursions in Cappadocia and Ephesus, or spend your leisure time relaxing at the hotel or on the beaches or Izmir, or exploring your way.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkey, where every destination has been thoughtfully curated to offer a luxurious and immersive experience. Begin in the captivating city of Istanbul, where East meets West in a dazzling display of history, culture, and elegance. Stroll through opulent palaces, admire the architectural wonders of grand mosques, and soak in the energy of vibrant bazaars. Continue to Konya, a city steeped in spiritual heritage, where you’ll delve into the mystique of Sufism and witness the enchanting Whirling Dervish ceremony. Then unwind along the glittering turquoise coast of Antalya, where golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stylish resorts create the perfect setting for indulgent relaxation.
Please Note: This tour is operated by our sister company Ciconia Exclusive Journeys, specializing in premium travel experiences.
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day odyssey through Turkey on our Crossroads of Turkey tour, a meticulously curated itinerary that seamlessly weaves together ancient cities, breathtaking coastlines, historical landmarks, and the vibrant tapestry of modern Turkish culture. Starting and ending in Istanbul, this comprehensive adventure promises travelers a diverse and enriching exploration of this remarkable country.
Your journey commences in the captivating metropolis of Istanbul, where East and West harmoniously converge. Immerse yourself in the city's cosmopolitan allure while marveling at its ancient treasures, providing a perfect introduction to Turkey's rich and storied heritage.
The tour takes a poignant turn as you visit the hallowed battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli, including the revered ANZAC Cove, paying homage to the historical significance of World War I.
As you venture south along the picturesque Mediterranean coast, you'll encounter the echoes of Turkey's ancient civilizations. Stops at the legendary site of Troy, the awe-inspiring ruins of Pergamum, and the remarkably preserved ancient city of Ephesus offer profound insights into the country's illustrious past.
Arriving in the charming coastal town of Kusadasi, you'll savor the delights of Turkish seaside life before embarking on an inland adventure. The otherworldly calcium travertines of Pamukkale beckon, inviting you for a rejuvenating dip in the thermal waters. The nearby ruins of Hieropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome.
The journey continues along the fabled Spice Route, leading you deeper into central Turkey. In Konya, you'll experience the mesmerizing art of Sufi whirling dervishes and celebrate the timeless poetry of Rumi, a profound cultural immersion.
Venturing further into the heart of Anatolia, the tour unveils the captivating landscape of Cappadocia, with a stop at the historic Sultanhani Caravanserai along the way. In Cappadocia, prepare to be enchanted by the surreal rock formations, ancient cave churches, subterranean cities, and the iconic 'fairy chimneys' that define this extraordinary region.
From Cappadocia, the adventure takes you to the majestic Mount Nemrut, where colossal statues of ancient gods and rulers stand sentinel over the surrounding landscape. Witness the breathtaking sunrise from this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a truly unforgettable experience.
Your journey then leads you to Sanliurfa, a city steeped in biblical history, believed to be the birthplace of Abraham. Explore its sacred Pool of Abraham and the fascinating archaeological site of Göbekli Tepe, considered one of the oldest temples in the world.
In nearby Harran, you'll encounter the unique beehive-shaped houses and ancient city walls that have stood for millennia. This evocative site offers a glimpse into life in ancient Mesopotamia.
Your next stop is Gaziantep, a culinary paradise renowned for its delectable cuisine and vibrant pistachio markets. Indulge in local specialties like baklava and kebabs while exploring the city's historic sites, including the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to stunning Roman mosaics.
As your extraordinary journey through Turkey draws to a close, you'll fly back to Istanbul, where you can extend your stay to further explore the city's myriad wonders or bid farewell to this enchanting land with cherished memories.
Throughout the tour, you'll be accommodated in a carefully curated selection of 3 to 4-star and boutique hotels, ensuring comfort and a taste of local hospitality.
History, culture, epic food, and a bunch of new friends? Yup, this is what 10 days of pure, in-your-face magic looks like! Dive into Turkey’s rich history and stunning beauty — cruise the sparkling coastline, soak in the ancient baths of Pamukkale, and wander the vibrant streets of Fethiye and Ephesus. Chat with locals, do as they do, and keep things nice and chill with public transport and cozy stays. Brace yourselves — every step brings you closer to where East meets West, unlocking a whole new world of adventure.
Explore the best of Greece and Turkey on this 14-day journey from Athens to Istanbul, blending ancient wonders, island beauty and cultural treasures. Begin with Athens’ iconic Acropolis before cruising to Mykonos, Patmos, Crete and Santorini, where whitewashed villages meet shimmering seas. Then fly to Ankara and continue through Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, and the ruins of Ephesus and Troy. Pay tribute at Gallipoli before ending in vibrant Istanbul, exploring Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkey's rich tapestry of history and culture with this engaging 13-day tour, starting with guided sightseeing in Istanbul. Visit Gallipoli's poignant battlefields, historic Troy and the ancient city of Ephesus, offering you a window into Turkey's illustrious past. Enjoy leisurely moments in the charming village of Behramkale and the atmospheric hot springs of Pamukkale, then uncover the lesser-visited eastern sites of Gobekli Tepe and Gaziantep, before heading back to Istanbul.
PARTIALLY GUIDED TOUR: Save time as you fly between Turkey's main destinations on this 8-day group tour. From Istanbul, discover the fairytale landscapes of Cappadocia, the legendary Graeco-Roman city of Ephesus and the white cotton castles of Pamukkale, before ending back in the city once known as Constantinople.
Discover Turkey on this 9-day tour from Fethiye to Istanbul, starting with a serene gulet cruise through turquoise bays and ancient ruins, including Cleopatra’s Baths and Dockyard Island. On land, explore the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale and the Greco-Roman wonders of Hierapolis. Journey along the Silk Road to Konya to visit Rumi’s resting place, then wander through Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, cave churches, and underground cities. In Ankara, stop at Atatürk’s grand mausoleum before arriving in Istanbul, where east meets west. From the Blue Mosque to Hagia Sophia and Dolmabahce Palace.
PARTIALLY GUIDED TOUR: Discover Turkey on this 7-day tour, beginning in Istanbul and travelling to Ankara to visit the Atatürk Mausoleum and Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. In Cappadocia, marvel at otherworldly rock formations, cave churches and artisan workshops. Continue to Pamukkale’s striking white travertines before exploring ancient Ephesus and the nearby House of the Virgin Mary. Visit the ruins of Pergamon and legendary Troy, then reflect at the WWI memorials of Gallipoli before returning to Istanbul.
Discover the grandiose beauty and charming chaos of Istanbul and delve into history while commemorating the fallen on Anzac day at the shores of Gallipoli. Visit ancient cities of Troy, Pergamon and the fascinatingly well-preserved Ephesus with your expert local guide. Soak in the healing waters of Pamukkale and witness the incredible white pool terraces from up close. Embrace Rumi’s timeless philosophy under the charm of the whirling dervishes of Konya. Roam among fairy-chimneys of the otherworldly Cappadocia, and explore the capital city, Ankara, where stands the mausoleum of Ataturk, the founder of the Modern Turkish Republic.
PARTIALLY GUIDED TOUR: Uncover the wonders of Anatolia on this 10-day tour through Turkey’s cultural heart. Start in Istanbul with the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and a Bosphorus cruise. Explore Topkapi Palace, then head to Ankara to visit Atatürk’s Mausoleum and the Anatolian Civilisations Museum. In Cappadocia, tour the Göreme Open-Air Museum and an underground city. Continue to Pamukkale’s thermal terraces, explore the ruins of Ephesus, and visit the House of the Virgin Mary. Discover Pergamon and Troy, then reflect at Gallipoli’s WWI battlefields before returning to Istanbul.
Discover Turkey on this 19-day tour from Istanbul to Istanbul, taking in the country’s rich history, varied landscapes, and cultural treasures. Explore the iconic sights of Istanbul before heading to Gallipoli, Troy, and the classical ruins of Ephesus. Soak in the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, cruise past mountain scenery to Fethiye, and delve into the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia. Venture east to Van and Kars, where highlights include Akdamar Island, Mount Ararat, and the medieval ruins of Ani, before returning to Istanbul.
Embark on an 18-day journey tracing the footsteps of Odysseus with this specially curated tour of Turkey and Greece. Begin in Istanbul, then explore Ankara, the underground cities of Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Gallipoli and legendary Ephesus. In Greece, explore the ancient treasures of Athens and unwind on the tranquil islands of Mykonos, Santorini and Crete. Experience an extraordinary adventure through ancient times, from the revered steps of the Parthenon to the remarkable ruins of Troy.
Experience the best of Turkey and Aegean Greece on this 11-day tour, starting in Istanbul with visits to the Spice Market, Bosphorus, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Continue through Ankara and Cappadocia to see ancient artefacts, underground cities, and fairy chimneys. Explore Pamukkale’s thermal terraces and the ruins of Ephesus, then fly to Athens to discover the Acropolis and enjoy a full-day cruise to the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, before concluding in Athens.
Alican KaptiTravel Expert in Turkey
Kadir Ismail KuscuTravel Expert in Turkey
Canan KaraarslanTravel Expert in Egypt, Greece, Jordan, Morocco & Turkey
