Highlights of Turkey – 12 Days

Unlock the Beauty of Turkey in 12 Days for $1,990

Travel through Turkey with a well-rounded 12-day tour that covers iconic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and scenic coastlines. Priced at $1,990 per person, this journey is designed for those seeking a rundown of Turkey in a manageable timeframe. The tour departs from Istanbul and includes domestic flights, accommodations, and guided visits to major attractions, making it a convenient way to see Turkey’s highlights.

This tour is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate small group sizes — limited to 12 people — ensuring a more personalized experience. It combines cultural sightseeing, historical sites, and a boat trip along the Turquoise coastline, offering a balanced mix of land and sea adventures. While the pace is busy, the tour provides time for restful moments and memorable scenery.

Key Points

• 12-day itinerary exploring Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and the Turkish coastline
• Includes domestic flights and central, characterful hotels in each region
• Small group size of up to 12 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Highlights include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Ephesus, Pamukkale thermal pools, and a boat trip in Fethiye
• Optional hot air balloon and land upgrade options are available for a more adventurous experience
• The tour is well-rated, with a 4.6/5 from five reviews, praising organization and guide expertise

Discover Istanbul’s Historic Sights and Vibrant Streets

The tour begins in Istanbul, where you visit Hagia Sophia, once the largest building on earth, and Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The Hippodrome, an ancient Roman gathering place, and the Blue Mosque, renowned for its six minarets and stunning dome, round out the city’s key attractions.

On the third day, a half-day tour takes you through the Spice Bazaar, known as Misir Carsisi, where the aroma of herbs and spices fills the air. This is followed by a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, offering views of Ottoman palaces, fortresses, and traditional wooden villas lining both European and Asian shores. The boat trip lasts approximately 2 hours and is a highlight for its scenic beauty and historical insights.

Seamless Transition from Istanbul to the Shores of Izmir

After exploring Istanbul, the tour includes a domestic flight to Izmir, where you check into a hotel and visit Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House). This site holds religious significance as the final residence of Mary, as declared by the church.

The visit continues with a guided tour of Ancient Ephesus, a remarkably preserved city that once housed over 250,000 residents. Walk along its ancient streets, see the Library of Celsus, and imagine life in this thriving Roman metropolis. Adjacent to Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, offers a glimpse into ancient religious practices.

Exploring Pamukkale’s Unique Thermal Pools and Hierapolis

On day five, the journey takes you to Pamukkale, famed for its terraced thermal pools, filled with warm, calcium-rich waters at 35°C. These natural pools have drawn visitors seeking healing for centuries and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nearby, the ruins of Hierapolis reveal a Roman spa town with a large necropolis, and the Sacred Pool offers a chance to relax in thermal waters flowing over ancient Roman ruins. The site’s historical remains make it a fascinating destination for history and nature lovers alike.

Coastal Adventure in Fethiye and the Mediterranean

The tour then moves to Fethiye, where a full-day boat trip showcases Turkish coastlines, bays, and islands. Travelers enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on deck, and savoring a BBQ lunch onboard the boat. The excursion lasts approximately 7 hours and emphasizes peace and comfort, with less crowded settings and amenities like toilets, showers, and bar facilities.

In Fethiye, the scenery is complemented by nearby natural attractions, making it an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying the sea life.

Visiting Antalya’s Scenic Landmarks and Old Town

From Fethiye, the tour proceeds via bus to Antalya, a journey of about 4 hours. Upon arrival, a visit to Tunektepe Teleferik offers spectacular views from 1365 meters above sea level, encompassing the coastline, mountains, and pine forests.

The Lower Duden Waterfalls provide a tranquil setting, with a walk through the park to listen to cascading water. Later, the historic Kaleiçi district presents narrow streets, ancient city walls, and landmarks like Hadrianus Gate and the Clock Tower. The old town’s boutiques and art galleries give ample opportunity for souvenirs and local flavor.

Exploring Cappadocia’s Fairytale Landscape

Moving inland, the tour visits Cappadocia, famous for rock formations, fairy chimneys, and underground cities. The Goreme Open-Air Museum features rock-cut churches with colorful frescoes from the 9th century.

The Devrent Valley showcases animal-shaped rocks and lunar landscapes, while Pasabag or Monks Valley displays mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys and a hermitage built into a fairy chimney. In Avanos, visitors experience traditional pottery making, engaging with local artisans.

The panoramic viewpoint at Goreme and Uchisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, provide sweeping vistas of the region’s unique terrain. The Rose Valley offers a stunning sunset view with pink-tinted cliffs.

Deep Dive into Cappadocia’s Underground and Cultural Sites

The adventure continues with a visit to the Kaymakli Underground City, once a refuge for 15,000 Christians. Its eight levels include living quarters, churches, and food storage rooms, connected by 30 km of tunnels.

Cavusin village features rock-cut houses and churches, while Pigeon Valley offers scenic walks among dovecotes carved into volcanic tuff. The day wraps up with visits to Ortahisar, known for its friendly villagers and scenic rock formations.

Final Day and Flight Back to Istanbul

On the last day, travelers visit the Rose and Red Valleys for vibrant pink and red-hued landscapes, especially striking at sunset. The tour concludes with a stop at Kayseri Airport for a domestic flight to Istanbul. The final transfer takes travelers to their hotel or airport, marking the end of this comprehensive Turkish experience.

The Practicalities and What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour offers central hotels in each region, with stays in characterful accommodations that highlight regional charm. Transportation between destinations occurs via domestic flights and air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during busy days. The group size of up to 12 travelers allows for personalized attention and flexibility.

Participants benefit from skip-the-line tickets for major sites, saving time and avoiding long queues. The tour includes meals (breakfasts and some lunches), airport transfers, and land transportation, but excludes entry fees to sites and beverages with meals.

While the schedule is packed, the tour is praised for its organization and expert guides. One review notes the guides’ knowledgeable storytelling and smooth logistics, although some mention variable customer service from third-party cruise staff.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This 12-day itinerary suits travelers who want an in-depth overview of Turkey with a mix of historical visits, scenic landscapes, and coastal relaxation. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a busy pace, multiple flights, and varied activities. The small group size enhances the experience for travelers seeking more personalized interactions and flexibility.

This tour is best for adventurous, culturally curious travelers who appreciate well-organized trips and authentic local experiences. It may be less suitable for those needing more leisure days or with mobility concerns, given the schedule’s pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include flights between regions?
Yes, the tour features domestic flights between Istanbul and Izmir, and between Kayseri and Istanbul, with 25kg baggage and 8kg cabin luggage included.

Are entrance fees to historical sites included?
No, the tour excludes entry fees, but guides provide skip-the-line tickets for many sites, helping travelers avoid long waits.

Is hot air ballooning part of the package?
No, hot air balloon flights are not included but can be booked separately upon request, with prices varying by season and availability.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience.

Can the land journey be upgraded?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade the flight from Antalya to Cappadocia at an additional $150 USD per person, which includes no visits to Konya but additional transfers.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially since children 8 years and below have free entry to many sites. However, the busy schedule may require some flexibility for younger children.