12 Days Best of Turkey Tour

The 12 Days Best of Turkey Tour offers a well-organized journey through some of Turkey’s most iconic sights, all for $2,250 per person. This small-group experience, limited to 10 travelers, emphasizes comfort, culture, and efficient scheduling over 12 days. The tour is highly rated with a 5.0 out of 5 from 62 reviews, and consistently recommended by 100% of participants.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of history, natural wonders, and vibrant city life will find this tour perfectly balances sightseeing and relaxation. The itinerary includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ephesus and Troy, alongside highlights such as Istanbul’s Topkapi Palace and Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys. The tour’s practical approach—covering major attractions without the hassle of planning—appeals to those seeking a comprehensive, stress-free adventure.

A key strength is the variety of destinations, but participants should be prepared for some early mornings and multiple transfers, including internal flights. The tour offers comfortable accommodations and transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. This experience suits those eager to see Turkey’s highlights in a structured yet intimate setting.

Key Points

• Small group size of maximum 10 people ensures personalized attention.
• Visit multiple UNESCO sites like Troy and Ephesus.
• Includes transportation, hotels, and guided tours, removing planning stress.
• Highlights Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Antalya with diverse landscapes and history.
• Flight connections between regions streamline travel.
• Rated 5/5 based on 62 reviews, with high satisfaction.

Discovering Istanbul’s Historic Landmarks in a Full-Day Tour

The tour begins with a full-day exploration of Istanbul‘s most renowned sites, including the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. The Hagia Sophia, once the largest church of the Roman Empire, now functions as a museum showcasing Byzantine architecture. The Topkapi Palace served as the Ottoman Empire’s seat of power in the 15th century, offering stunning views over the Bosphorus. The Blue Mosque, famous for its blue tiles and six minarets, provides a striking visual experience.

The tour also visits the Roman Hippodrome, once the site of chariot races, and concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, Turkey’s largest covered market with around 4,000 shops. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours and is designed to give a thorough introduction to Istanbul’s rich history and lively markets.

The Bosphorus Cruise and Transition to Antalya

On the third day, the tour leads to the Bosphorus Strait, where a boat cruise offers scenic views of the Palaces, bridges, and waterfront houses that line Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. This Bosphorus cruise captures the essence of the city from the water, with sights like Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque.

Following the cruise, the group is transferred to the airport for a flight to Antalya, a coastal city known for its beach resorts and historical sites. Upon arrival, guests are transferred to their hotel, setting the stage for the next leg of the journey along Turkey’s southern coast.

Exploring Antalya’s Historic Kaleici and Waterfalls

The fourth day highlights the Old City of Antalya, known as Kaleici, with its Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman influences. Key sites include Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman triumphal arch, and the Korkut Mosque, originally a Roman temple with its Broken Minaret. The tour then visits the enchanting Duden Waterfalls, where streams plunge over the Taurus Mountains into the Mediterranean, creating a peaceful setting.

This 8-hour tour combines history, scenic beauty, and leisure, offering a well-rounded experience of Antalya’s charms. Travelers can enjoy the blend of ancient architecture and natural waterfalls in a single day.

Pamukkale’s White Terraces and the Ancient City of Hierapolis

Traveling by local bus, the group heads about 4 hours north to reach Pamukkale, famous for its thermal mineral-rich terraces that resemble a cotton castle. Visitors can walk along the white calcium deposits, experience the thermal waters, and enjoy stunning views of the terraces.

Adjacent to Pamukkale, the ancient city Hierapolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its hot springs and well-preserved ruins. The site includes theatre, baths, and temples dating back to the 2nd century BC, believed to have healing properties. The thermal pools and hot springs make it an ideal spot for relaxation, and this day offers both natural beauty and history.

Ephesus and the Greek Village of Irince in Kusadasi

After staying overnight in Kusadasi, the tour explores Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities. Highlights include the large theatre, the Celcius Library, and the ruins of the agora, giving insight into Roman urban planning and architecture.

Next, the group visits Irince, a charming Greek village where Turkish-Greek culture merge. Here, visitors stroll narrow streets lined with old houses and local handicrafts, capturing a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. This combination of archaeological and cultural sights provides a well-rounded look at Turkey’s diverse history.

The Wonders of Cappadocia’s Unique Landscapes

Flying from Izmir to Cappadocia, the journey shifts to one of Turkey’s most distinctive regions. The Devrent Valley showcases fantastical fairy chimneys, while Love Valley features mushroom-shaped pinnacles perfect for photos.

In the town of Avanos, known for its pottery, visitors can see traditional craftmaking. The Zelve open-air museum reveals rock-cut churches and Christian settlements, and Uchisar Castle offers panoramic views. The day ends in Pasabag Valley, famous for its mushroom-shaped rocks.

This 8-hour exploration highlights natural formations shaped over centuries and the human history intertwined with the landscape.

Visiting Red Valley and Özkonak Underground City

The next day, the tour takes guests to Red Valley, where they can walk among rock-carved churches and enjoy the striking red-colored cliffs. The visit to Çavusin Village reveals historic Christian houses, adding to the area’s spiritual feel.

After lunch, the group visits the Özkonak underground city, where early Christians sought refuge from persecution. The tunnels and rooms demonstrate a complex subterranean habitat used for centuries. This day balances impressive natural scenery with historical ingenuity.

Returning to Istanbul and Final Departure

On the tour’s last days, the group flies back from Cappadocia to Istanbul, returning to the city for a final overnight stay. The last day involves a transfer to Istanbul airport, ending the comprehensive journey through Turkey’s highlights.

The Practical Aspects and Booking Details

This tour includes air-conditioned transportation, hotels, and all fees and taxes. It also offers pickups, group discounts, and the convenience of mobile tickets. Participants are picked up at 8:00 am on the first day, with most activities scheduled during daytime hours.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received upon booking. It’s recommended to book around 90 days in advance to secure a spot, given its popularity. The maximum group size of 10 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, and guides are described as knowledgeable and engaging.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The itinerary covers seven major regions, including Istanbul, Antalya, Pamukkale, Kusadasi, and Cappadocia, delivering a rundown of Turkey’s natural and historical riches. The inclusion of UNESCO sites like Ephesus, Troy, and Hierapolis adds significant cultural value, while the small group size ensures a more intimate and flexible experience.

The tour’s balanced pace allows ample time at each stop, with comfortable accommodation and transportation making the journey smooth. The option to skip bookings and planning saves time, and the positive reviews highlight the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, especially mentioning Irem, Ayshe, and Tariq.

12 Days of Turkey in a Nutshell

This 12-day tour provides an efficiently paced introduction to Turkey’s most famous sights and hidden gems. It offers stunning views, especially in Cappadocia and Pamukkale, along with immersive cultural experiences like exploring Irince or wandering through Kaleici.

While some days involve long drives or flights, the overall structure keeps the experience manageable and enjoyable. The hotel stays are comfortable, and the inclusion of local guides adds depth to each visit.

Final Thoughts on the Best of Turkey Tour

For those seeking a comprehensive, well-organized journey through Turkey’s highlights and lesser-known treasures, this tour offers exceptional value. The $2,250 price point includes most essentials, with expert guides and carefully curated stops.

Its small-group format ensures more personalized attention and fewer crowds, making it a suitable choice for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience. The positive ratings and detailed itinerary confirm that this tour meets the expectations of most visitors eager to explore Turkey’s diverse landscapes and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, though some walking and outdoor activities may require moderate physical activity. It’s best suited for those comfortable with daily excursions and transfers.

Are flights between regions included?
Yes, the tour covers internal flights, such as from Izmir to Cappadocia, to save travel time and maximize sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which encourages a more personal and flexible experience.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, this tour provides hotels throughout the itinerary, ensuring comfortable stays in key locations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the start are not eligible for refunds.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provider, Top Turkey Tours, with confirmation received immediately upon booking. It’s recommended to reserve around 90 days early for availability.