Best of Turkey Small Group Tour

The Best of Turkey Small Group Tour offers an immersive 11-day journey through Turkey’s most iconic sights, all for $4,300 per person. With a rating of 5.0 based on 14 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 100% of travelers, reflecting its strong appeal among those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s history, culture, and landscapes. The tour features luxurious accommodations, expert guides, and well-organized logistics, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate detailed planning and personalized attention. While the tour is slightly longer with a moderate physical activity level, it is especially suitable for those eager to experience Turkey’s diverse regions in a well-paced manner.

A key strength of this tour is its balanced itinerary, starting in Istanbul with visits to its breathtaking mosques, palaces, and markets, then flying to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. Here, travelers stay in luxury cave hotels and explore fairy chimneys, rock-cut churches, and underground cities. The adventure continues with a quick flight to Izmir and the historic ruins of Ephesus, before winding down in Antalya, where mountain views meet the sea. The combination of guided visits, flights, and leisure time offers a rich, layered experience.

Key Points

• 11 days of guided touring across Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Antalya.
• Includes flights between regions for efficient travel and maximizing sightseeing time.
• Luxury cave hotels in Cappadocia provide a unique overnight experience.
• Expert guides lead through Istanbul’s historic mosques and palaces, and Cappadocia’s landscapes and underground cities.
• The tour maintains a moderate physical activity level, suitable for most travelers with average fitness.
• Group size limited to 12, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Starting in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet District

The tour begins in Istanbul, with a pickup from Istanbul Airport and check-in at a hotel located on one of the city’s iconic seven hills, in the historic Sultanahmet district. This prime location offers instant access to notable sights like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque on the first day, giving travelers a head start in exploring the city’s ancient core. The hotel’s placement simplifies sightseeing and provides stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline.

In the evenings, travelers can stroll through the lively streets of Sultanahmet, with options to browse local markets or enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine nearby. The first day includes a 3-hour introductory tour, giving a relaxed start to the Istanbul experience.

Exploring Istanbul’s Iconic Mosques and Markets

Day 2 delves into Istanbul’s architectural masterpieces with visits to the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. The guide explains the fascinating stories behind these structures, emphasizing their historical and cultural significance. After a traditional lunch, the tour continues to the Hippodrome and Basilica Cistern, where the Roman influence is evident in Istanbul’s landscape.

In the afternoon, visitors explore the bustling Grand Bazaar, providing a lively atmosphere to browse jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. The full-day tour, lasting 7 hours, offers a comprehensive look into Istanbul’s most famous sites with admission tickets included.

Discovering Top Ottoman Highlights at Topkapi Palace

Day 3 centers on the Topkapi Palace, the seat of Ottoman sultans and a treasure trove of historical artifacts. Visitors explore the palace’s harem, treasury, and courtyards, gaining insights into Ottoman royal life. Following this, the Spice Market/Egyptian Bazaar provides a sensory overload with fragrant spices and local foods.

A scenic Bosporus Strait tour offers views of Istanbul from the water, highlighting the city’s unique position spanning two continents. The day’s activities are flexible in timing, based on guide discretion, ensuring the best possible experience. The day ends with a relaxed evening in Istanbul to prepare for the next flight.

Transitioning from Istanbul to Cappadocia’s Surreal Landscapes

Day 4 marks the transition to Cappadocia via a one-hour flight. Upon arrival, a private guide leads an introduction to the region’s extraordinary scenery, starting with Uchisar Fortress, OrtaHisar, and Red Valley. These areas showcase the lunar-like terrain and natural formations that make Cappadocia famous.

After the day’s exploration, travelers check into a luxurious cave hotel, where they can relax and enjoy the distinctive ambiance of a room carved into the rock. The overnight stay in a cave hotel is a highlight for many guests, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

Exploring Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys and Underground Cities

Day 5 emphasizes Cappadocia’s geological and archaeological sites. The guide takes visitors to Pasabaglari (Fairy Chimneys), where tall rock formations dominate the landscape. The day also includes visits to Zelve Open Air Museum, featuring houses carved into stone and remnants of a former settlement.

After lunch, the tour continues to Goreme Open Air Museum with its rock-cut churches and frescoes, and Kaymakli Underground City, where visitors explore tunnels and chambers once used as shelters. The day ends back at the hotel, with views of the landscapes and a chance to unwind.

Traveling to the Aegean Coast via Izmir and Kusadasi

Day 6 involves a flight from Cappadocia to Izmir, followed by a guided tour of Sirince Village, renowned for its local wines and traditional house architecture. This stop offers a taste of Aegean culture before continuing to Kusadasi, a scenic seaside town where the hotel is located on the coast, offering access to stunning sea views and potential swimming.

This segment provides a comfortable blend of sightseeing and relaxation, with 4 hours of touring en route. The region’s mild climate and coastal scenery are ideal for unwinding after days of exploration.

Visiting Ephesus and the Basilica of St. John

Day 7 is dedicated to Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most celebrated archaeological sites. The guide leads a leisurely exploration of the well-preserved Ancient City, including the Terraced Houses and the Ephesus Archaeology Museum. The site’s impressive ruins vividly illustrate ancient urban life.

In addition, visits to Mary’s House and St. John’s Basilica enrich the story of early Christianity. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, completes the day’s culture. The tour concludes with restful evening time in Kusadasi.

Moving to Antalya and Pamukkale’s Thermal Waters

Day 8 begins with a visit to Pamukkale, famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters and white travertine terraces. Optional swimming at Cleopatra’s Baths adds a relaxing element. After lunch, the journey continues over mountain roads to Antalya, a vibrant coastal city, where the hotel offers panoramic sea views and pool facilities.

This day combines natural beauty with historic sites, setting the tone for the relaxing days ahead in Antalya.

Exploring Perge and Aspendos Ancient Cities

Day 9 focuses on Perge and Aspendos, two of the most significant ancient cities near Antalya. The guide highlights Perge’s well-preserved stadium and agora, as well as Aspendos’ remarkably intact Roman theater. These sites showcase the engineering prowess and cultural richness of the region.

Optional visits include a local waterfall, offering additional outdoor enjoyment. The day ends with leisure time in Antalya’s old town, Kaleici, where guests can enjoy local restaurants, shops, or nightlife.

Touring Termessos and Antalya Museum’s Collections

Day 10 takes travelers up to Termessos, a mountain-top city overlooking the sea, renowned for its dramatic setting and well-preserved ruins. After exploring, the tour visits the Antalya Museum, which houses artifacts from the region’s long history, providing context for the sites seen earlier.

Later, a walk through Kaleici offers opportunities to experience Antalya’s modern charm, with options for dining or exploring at leisure. The day combines outdoor exploration with cultural insights, wrapping up the trip’s highlights.

Departure from Antalya

Day 11 is reserved for return travel, with a private driver picking up from the hotel to transfer travelers to the airport. The short transfer time of around 3 hours makes for a smooth end to the tour, with all logistics handled professionally.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Journey Through Turkey

The Best of Turkey Small Group Tour delivers a comprehensive experience of the country’s most compelling sights, from Istanbul’s historic monuments to Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes and Ephesus’s ancient ruins, finishing with the scenic beauty of Antalya. The inclusion of flights between regions maximizes time spent at each destination, offering convenience and efficiency.

The tour’s focus on expert guides, luxury accommodations, and well-organized logistics results in a trip that appeals to travelers seeking a deep and comfortable exploration of Turkey. The limitation of 12 participants enhances the personal experience, making it easier to connect and learn.

While the itinerary involves moderate physical activity, the pace remains manageable, and the variety of stops keeps the experience engaging. This tour offers exceptional value for those looking to see Turkey’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and seamless planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guided tours, admission tickets to key sites, flights between regions, hotel accommodations, and lunches.

Are flights between regions arranged?
Yes, the tour includes scheduled flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia and from Cappadocia to Izmir, facilitating efficient travel.

What is the physical fitness level required?
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level to comfortably manage walking and exploring the various archaeological and natural sites.

Can I expect luxury accommodation?
Yes, the tour features luxury cave hotels in Cappadocia and high-quality hotels in other locations, emphasizing comfort and distinctive experiences.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 12, ensuring a more personalized and intimate touring experience.

Is transportation provided throughout the trip?
Yes, all transfers, flights, and ground transportation are included, with professional guides and drivers managing logistics.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancelling less than 6 days before incurs no refund.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Sojourn Turkey, known for their attentive planning and knowledgeable guides.