Turkey Delights Private 10 days Guided Tour

Discover the Best of Turkey in Just 10 Days for $2,999

The Turkey Delights Private 10 days Guided Tour offers a comprehensive journey through Turkey’s most famous sights, priced at $2,999 per person. Designed for small groups of up to 10 people, this tour balances guided exploration with flexible, stress-free logistics. It covers iconic landmarks such as Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, and the natural wonder of Pamukkale, alongside historical sites like Ephesus and Gallipoli. The tour includes all transportation, accommodations, and entrance fees, making it ideal for travelers who prefer an organized, detailed experience without the hassle of separate bookings.

While this tour is quite complete, it involves some walking and moderate physical activity, especially at sites like Hierapolis and Uchisar Castle. The all-inclusive nature truly helps reduce planning stress, and the small group size enhances personalized attention and interaction with the guide. This tour is especially suitable for those eager to see a broad swath of Turkey’s highlights in a short time, enjoying a well-paced itinerary with plenty of historical and natural sights.

Key Points

• All-inclusive 10-day guided tour covering Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Troy, Gallipoli, and Konya
• Price of $2,999 per person, including accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and domestic flights
• Small group experience with a maximum of 10 participants for personalized attention
• Visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and natural wonders like Pamukkale’s travertines
• Includes domestic flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia, with luggage limits of 15 kilos check-in and 8 kilos cabin

The Tour Begins in Istanbul: Historic Landmarks and Cultural Hotspots

The first days in Istanbul set a lively tone with visits to Hippodrome Square, where chariot races and Byzantine riots once took place. The Hagia Sophia, built in 532 AD, stands as a masterpiece of architecture and history, with access to its interior provided via a modern audio-guided system due to recent changes. The Blue Mosque impresses with its signature Iznik tiles, creating a calming blue ambiance. Tour participants then explore the Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman sultans’ residence and administrative hub, including its weapons section. The day concludes with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling covered market with over 1,200 shops, offering jewelry, pottery, spices, and carpets.

This segment provides a deep dive into Istanbul’s layered history while allowing for some flexibility at each site. The guided commentary enhances understanding, and the free admission to major landmarks helps keep the experience engaging without extra costs.

Exploring Cappadocia’s Unique Landscape and Underground Cities

On Day 3, the tour transitions to Cappadocia via a domestic flight, with the transfer from Kayseri or Nevsehir airports to the region around 50 minutes. The first stop is the iconic Three Sisters Fairy Chimneys in Urgup, where rock formations showcase nature’s artistic flair. Next, the Pigeon Valley walk reveals the centuries-old pigeon houses carved into soft volcanic rock—an insight into local life and agriculture.

The Ozkonak Underground City offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient subterranean architecture, descending into tunnels over 1 hour 15 minutes. The Fairy Chimneys at Pasabag further demonstrate Cappadocia’s surreal terrain, with their twin and triple rock caps often called mushroom-shaped. The day concludes with a stop at Uchisar Castle, the highest point in the region, providing breathtaking panoramic views.

This part of the tour emphasizes natural beauty and historical ingenuity, with entrance fees pre-paid and guided commentary ensuring a rich experience without the need for additional planning.

Cappadocia’s Cultural Workshops and Rock-Cut Churches

Days 4 and 5 expand on Cappadocia’s landscape with visits to Goreme Open-Air Museum, showcasing ancient rock churches adorned with frescoes from various periods. The Avanos town offers a chance to see pottery workshops, an age-old craft still thriving today, with a lunch break there.

The trip continues with a visit to Uchisar Castle, providing an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding terrain. After the morning explorations, the group departs for Pamukkale, with a stop at Mevlana Museum in Konya to learn about Rumi’s spiritual influence. The day ends with check-in at a thermal hotel near Pamukkale, where the natural thermal pools are open for swimming until late in the evening.

The combination of cultural visits, scenic landscapes, and relaxing thermal baths makes this segment well-rounded, with all transportation and hotel stays included.

Pamukkale’s Natural Wonder and Ancient City of Hierapolis

The highlight of Days 6 and 7 is the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters creating stunning cotton-like formations along the hillside. The Hierapolis ancient city complements this natural spectacle, featuring its theatre, Apollo Temple, and Necropolis.

Visitors have the chance to walk among the terraces and swim in the thermal pools, enjoying the soothing mineral waters. The entrance fees are covered, and the tour guides provide insights into the geological and historical significance of the site. After exploring Pamukkale, the trip continues to Kusadasi for overnight stays, with time to relax or explore at leisure.

This segment combines natural beauty with archaeological interest, offering a comprehensive view of Turkey’s diverse heritage.

Ephesus and the Virgin Mary’s House: Ancient Roman Legacy

On Day 7, the tour visits Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most famous ancient cities. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, offers a glimpse into early religious architecture. The Ephesus archaeological site impresses with its well-preserved marble streets, the Curetes Street, the Great Theatre, and the Celcus Library—each telling stories of Roman urban life.

A visit to Meryemana (House of Virgin Mary) provides a spiritual dimension, as the house is believed to be where Mary spent her final days. The guided tour includes all entrance fees, with plenty of time to absorb the historical atmosphere.

This leg combines archaeological marvels with a pilgrimage site, enriching the overall experience of Turkey’s ancient civilizations.

Ancient Pergamum and Troy: Mythology and History

On Day 8, the tour heads to Pergamum, where the Acropolis stands atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding plain. The site features famous ruins such as the Zeus Altar and well-preserved theatre.

Next, the journey continues to Troy, revealing the legendary city linked to the Trojan War and the famous Trojan Horse. The archaeological site offers insights into mythology and early urban life, with 1 hour 30 minutes allocated for exploration.

Both stops are guided with pre-paid entrance fees, ensuring a smooth transition between sites packed with historical and mythological significance.

Gallipoli’s Battlefield and Commemorations

On Day 9, the tour visits the Gallipoli Battlefield, with key sites including Anzac Cove, Chunuk Bair, and Lone Pine Cemetery. The visit lasts around 2 hours, providing context and reflection on the historical significance of the battles fought there.

Afterward, the group departs for Istanbul, with a lunch stop en route. The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours, allowing for rest and scenic views as the tour concludes its historic exploration of Turkey’s wartime sites.

Final Day: Returning from Istanbul to Home or Cruise

The 10th day involves a private transfer from the hotel to Istanbul Airport, marking the end of a comprehensive 10-day journey. The tour’s inclusion of all transportation, accommodations, meals, and entrance fees helps streamline the departure, ensuring travelers leave well-informed and satisfied.

This final step underscores the tour’s convenience and thoroughness, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive Turkish experience.

Turkey Delights Tour: Who Will Appreciate It Most?

This private guided tour is perfect for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and natural beauty lovers eager to see Turkey’s top destinations without the stress of planning. The small group size enhances interaction with guides and offers a more personalized experience. The all-included package is especially valuable for travelers who prefer a hassle-free trip, with domestic flights and hotel stays sorted ahead of time.

While the itinerary covers many highlights, expect some moderate walking at sites like Hierapolis and Uchisar Castle. The tour’s well-paced schedule allows ample time at each attraction but involves some long travel days, especially between Pamukkale and Kusadasi.

This experience suits those seeking an in-depth, organized overview of Turkey’s most iconic sights, with the added comfort of professional guiding and pre-paid admissions. It’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to tick multiple UNESCO sites and historical landmarks off their list in a single trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $2,999?
The price covers accommodations in boutique and cave hotels, all entrance fees, domestic flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia, guided tours, all transportation, and meals including 9 breakfasts and 4 dinners.

Are there any physical requirements or limitations?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some sites involve walking and climbing, such as Uchisar Castle and Hierapolis. The tour is designed for comfortable pacing, but travelers should be prepared for some moderate activity.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Changes less than 6 days before are not accepted; cancellations less than 2 days before are non-refundable.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Small Group (Max. 10 Pax) & Private Tours in Turkey, with contact at +905553127947 or [email protected].

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
While the tour is private and small-group, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and historical site visits. Families with older children or active seniors will find it manageable, but very young children may face challenges at some sites.

This 10-day Turkey Delights Guided Tour combines historical exploration, natural wonders, and culture, all in a stress-free, organized package. It offers a solid way to see Turkey’s highlights with the convenience of all logistics handled and a knowledgeable guide leading the way.