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Basix

18 to 35s

Real Turkey

15 Days | Coastal cruising to city schmoozing – see it all, Turkish style

4.8

Excellent

53 reviews

15 days

Start

Istanbul, Turkey

Finish

Istanbul, Turkey

Trip Code

ERYOC

Min Age

Trip Size

1 - 16

Physical Rating

Meals

12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner

Transport

Ferry, Local bus, Private Bus, Boat, Overnight Bus

Accommodation

Hotel (8 nights), Pension (3 nights), Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights), Overnight Bus (1 night)

From £1,306(15 days)

Trip Informations

See the real Turkey on this 15-day adventure through the best bits. Discover the cultural melting pot that is this fascinating landscape, which straddles both Europe and the Middle East. Indulge in some incredible local bites (and maybe some shisha, too), explore ancient ruins and walk in the footsteps of Marc Antony, Cleopatra and the Trojan army. Wander Istanbul at your own pace, then hit the coast to swim and sunbake in the Dardanelles Strait, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, sailing along the south coast. Learn about the practices of Sufism and the art and performance of the whirling dervish, then spend a few days getting to know otherworldly Cappadocia. Wander the fairy chimneys, get up early to see the iconic sight of hot air balloons floating along the city’s skyline and maybe even treat yourself to a ride at sunrise! This trip is all the best bits of Turkey and more! What more could you need?

Why you’ll love this trip

Eat, swim, sunbake, repeat – that’s what will happen when you get cruising along Turkey's Mediterranean coastline. The choice is yours if you’d like to go exploring or just relax on deck. 

Delight your tastebuds with exceptional Turkish cuisine, from kebabs to coffee and the famous Ayvalik tost – a Turkish-style toasted sandwich. Then, dine in the home of a local family, where you’ll be treated to a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal.

Thought all the best Roman ruins were in Italy? Think again! Turkey is home to one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus – so discover it just like Anthony and Cleopatra did 2000 years ago. 

Explore the weird and wonderful world of Cappadocia – this might be the most unusual place in Turkey. Learn all about its fairy chimneys and sprawling rock formations from your expert local leader. 

Wade through the scenic hot springs at Pamukkale – pure white calcium deposits that cascade down the cliffs overlooking the town, are said to have magical healing properties.

Is this trip right for you?

You’ll get a taste of local life on this trip, with most travel done on public buses. This minimises our carbon footprint and gives you a real chance to interact with the local community. Most Turkish buses have wi-fi, in-seat entertainment and serve refreshments.

Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but it does require a level of independence. Only are few meals are included, so mostly you'll find your own (with plenty of suggestions from your leader of course). This trip puts it in your hands with tonnes of free time. Maybe budget a little extra cash for activities that aren’t included.

The cobblestone streets, narrow steps and tiny bridges of Turkey are very romantic. They’re also another good reason to pack light and leave the wheeled suitcase at home. You'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the buses, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential Trip Information’ section.

Summer temperatures can be very high in Turkey (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. You’ll need walking shoes and a daypack to explore some of historical sites.The weather can be hot in July and August, but keep in mind that this is the best time to enjoy the clear water of the Mediterranean. It can also get cool in these destinations, particularly from October to April, so don't forget to pack extra layers if travelling at this time.

Itinerary

DAY 1
Istanbul
Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul – the metropolis where European and Middle Eastern culture meet. You’ll have an important welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, maybe get out into the city streets and wander around or go hunting for a real doner kebab and some authentic Turkish delight (which pairs nicely with a cup of Turkish coffee). If you arrive a day or two early, maybe consider taking a day trip to Princes’ Islands. After the meeting tonight, why not head out for dinner with your group and get a taste of the fabulous local cuisine.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Add on activities
Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free
Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) - TRY200
Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show - TRY1500
Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) - EUR100
Istanbul - Galata Tower - EUR30
Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - EUR25
Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - EUR15
Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts - EUR17
Special information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
If you have extra time in Istanbul, you may consider purchasing the Istanbul Museum Pass, which cost 2500TRY. The pass is valid for 5 days and includes 13 museums. Please be aware that some of the most popular ones like Dolmabahce Palace, Basilica Cistern and Galata Tower are not included by the pass though. Topkapi Palace is also closed on Tuesdays so please plan your visit accordingly. please check this website for more details of the validity of the pass
DAY 2
Canakkale
This morning, jump on a bus and ferry to the shores of Gallipoli – a significant peninsula for Australians and New Zealanders. A place of pilgrimage for many, it’s hard to imagine the now calm waters and peaceful landscape as the site of such a brutal battle back in World War I. Take in the reverence and serenity of the area and hear the stories of heroism and mateship that shone through the tragedies of war. You'll spend tonight in Canakkale – a popular university town – so you won’t have a hard time finding something fun to do tonight. Whether you’re chilling on the shore of the Dardanelles with a drink or checking out a local band with some of your travel pals, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in this coastal city.
Accommodation
Pension (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours. 
DAY 3
Ayvalik
Up for learning a little about ancient history and mythical heroes? This morning, you’ll have the option to take an excursion out to the ruins of Troy – the famed walled city infiltrated by the Greeks after they hid in the enormous Trojan Horse. Explore the ancient walls, climb around the 4500-year-old ruins and look out across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Later, drive down the coast to Ayvalik, where your leader will take you on a walk to discover the town's fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish cultures. You’ll also visit the ladies at Copmadam – a local social enterprise that employs local women who upcycle waste and produce accessories and homewares. For lunch, snack on a local Ayvalik tost (a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings).
Accommodation
Guesthouse (multi-share) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Included activities
Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)
Ayvalik – Orientation Walk
Add on activities
Troy - Guided visit - EUR27
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours. 
DAY 4
Ayvalik
Today is yours to explore Ayvalik. On the edge of the Aegean Sea, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to hang out in your free time. Stroll through the cobblestone backstreets and check out the rows of terracotta-roofed houses and lively cafes. Kucukkoy’s Greek stone houses, art galleries and delicious pastries are worth checking out. You could also head out to one of the many beaches in the area (like Sarımsakli and Badavut) or head out to Cunda Island, filled with Greek Orthodox churches. Tonight, you can join your group for an optional dinner where you could try some raki or balik with some of your travel crew. Set around a harbour, what better way to kick off the evening than with a drink at a harbour-side bar looking out to the Aegean Islands? As the locals say, “raki, balik, Ayvalik!””
Accommodation
Guesthouse (multi-share) (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
DAY 5
Selcuk
This morning, take a local bus to the town of Selcuk. When you arrive, take an orientation walk to get your bearings. Later, you can head out to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Marc Antony and Cleopatra. This is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. You’ll be amazed by the sophistication of this ancient city, which had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a medical institute and Roman baths. The theatre is also well preserved, but it’s the library that’s perhaps the coolest structure. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
Add on activities
Selcuk - Basilica of St John - EUR6
Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) - EUR15
Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. 
DAY 6
Pamukkale
Travel east inland to Pamukkale, which literally translates to 'cotton castle'. Here, spectacular natural hot springs with a high calcium content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, creating bright white terraces, or ‘cotton’. Why not take a dip and snap some pics – these springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC and its waters are said to have healing properties. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy a dip in what used to be her old pool, soaking in the transparent springs that were sculpted for her as a gift from Marc. You can also check out the other ruins of the city – Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheatre shouldn’t be missed. If you're lucky, tonight you might catch an epic sunset from the acropolis.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Add on activities
Pamukkale - Cleopatra Ancient Pool - TRY340
Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. 
DAY 7
Kekova
Today, make your way south to the coast of Turkey to see the whitewashed buildings of Kas before you head out to Kekova. Right on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll explore this area and its ruins this afternoon. You could be lazing by the beach and taking in the views out over the island, swimming in the clear turquoise waters or wandering through the Ancient City of Antiphellos. This area has been inhabited since the 4th century, so make sure to soak in some of the incredible history while you’re here. As the sun sets, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations in Kekova, and look back up the hill towards the castle as it is brilliantly illuminated against the night sky.
Accommodation
Pension (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours. 
DAY 8
Southern Coast Sailing / Kekova
Sailing in the Mediterranean is on a lot of people’s bucket lists for a reason, and today you get to tick it off yours. Jump in a boat and sail along the Turkish coast for the day, discovering the mysterious sunken ruins of an ancient Lycian city, exploring rock tombs, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and cruising along this incredible coastline. After a day of swimming, soaking up the sun, eating a delicious homemade meal and exploring ancient lost worlds, head back to Kekova for a free evening.
Accommodation
Pension (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Included activities
Kekova - Turkish Coast day sailing
DAY 9
Antalya
After breakfast, hop on a public bus to Antalya – the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya with its cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. Head around town with your group leader, maybe jump on the old Nostalgic Tram or go to Konyaalti Beach for some more time chilling out beachside. If you are in the mood for some last-minute history, check out some of the best museums in the country, or get theatrical at Aspendos ancient city with a beautiful, intact theatre from Roman times. Tonight, why not stake out some food and shisha with your group – Antalya has a thriving nightlife scene, so take advantage.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour
Add on activities
Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY250
Antalya - Antalya Museum - EUR15
Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City - EUR15
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours. 
DAY 10
Antalya / Konya
This morning, say goodbye to those leaving and meet with your new travel buddies at a second meeting at 11 am. Then, jump straight on the bus and go north to the charming city of Konya. The birthplace of Sufism (a religious belief and practice seeking the truth of divine love and knowledge) and the home of the famous whirling dervish, Konya is busting at the seams with history and culture. While you’re here, maybe check out the Mevlana Museum – the former dervish school turned museum – where you can visit the mausoleum of Rumi, a famous Sufi poet. For dinner, your leader can give you the best insider recommendations, so ask them where to find the tastiest kebab or where the best place for drinks is to celebrate stage two of your journey.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Special information
This is a combo trip, meaning your trip leader and group members will most likely change today.
In 2025, today's group meeting will take place at 8am.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
DAY 11
Cappadocia
Today, say farewell to Konya and hop on a bus to Cappadocia – home to strange rock formations, fairy chimneys and underground cities. Later in the morning, head underground and explore some of the 36 underground cities – these rabbit-warren metropolises were carved into the earth thousands of years ago. Tonight, a local family will welcome you and your group into their home for a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal. After, you might like to check out the nightlife in Goreme, or hit up a traditional sema performance of whirling dervishes.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Dinner
Included activities
Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
DAY 12
Cappadocia
You may have seen the iconic hot air balloons over Cappadocia online, and this morning will be your chance to tick that epic sunrise experience off your bucket list. If you’re up for it, rise bright and early and head out and up as the sun rises over the otherworldly city. Heights not for you? There are tonnes of great viewing points around the city where you can grab some pics or a few selfies as the sky fills with balloons. Later in the day, discover the highlights of the region this afternoon, checking out Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley – your group leader will know all the best places to stop. You’ll also have the opportunity to check out a traditional pottery demonstration with a local artisan, revealing all the secrets to creating the perfect ceramics. Later this afternoon, why not grab some wine and find a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Cappadocia - Sunset Hike
Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley
Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
Add on activities
Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath - EUR60
Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight - EUR260
Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight - EUR310
Goreme - Whirling dervish performance - EUR30
Special information
Hot air balloon in Cappadocia can only be booked directly with your trip leader locally. Please speak to your Turkish group leader on early on your trip to secure a spot for this popular activity. Due to local regulations, sunrise hot air balloon excursion times do vary which may result in your excursion beginning just after sunrise. This is subject to the tour provider’s discretion and is not within our control. The price of the hot air balloon activity is indicative only as the prices may fluctuate between different seasons. Your tour leader will advise you the correct rate at the time of booking.
DAY 13
Cappadocia / Overnight Bus
Today is your day to explore all that Cappadocia has to offer. If you’re keen to get out and stretch your legs, why not head out on the Red Valley Hike, which takes you through Meskindir and Rose Valley. The natural sharp sandstone structures glow in the sun, and the trail takes you through a cave church with excellently preserved wall frescoes. If hiking is not your thing, why not explore the markets and street vendors in town. There is a wealth of incredible Turkish handiwork on display, from ceramics to intricately woven carpets. Don't forget to check out the Goreme Open Air Museum, where you can explore the fairy chimneys, cave churches and ancient villages. Tonight, you’ll be hopping on an overnight bus to take you to Istanbul, so settle in and snooze the night away.
Accommodation
Overnight Bus (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Add on activities
Goreme - Open Air Museum - EUR20
Goreme - Bike Riding - EUR230
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 12 hours. 
Some optional activities vary in price based on the number of people who want to participate. Prices listed are a guide only and will depend on group numbers.
DAY 14
Istanbul
Rise and shine in Istanbul. Your overnight bus will arrive in the capital city of Turkey early this morning, so after dropping your bags at your hotel, the day is yours to explore. With your group, you’ll be heading off on a historical peninsula tour, where you’ll be shown all the best bits of Istanbul and get a lay of the land. Your tour includes all the essential highlights for every new traveller, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. After hunting down some lunch (borek and Turkish coffee, anyone?), why not explore this incredible city on foot and uncover some hidden gems. Tonight, check in with your leader for the best spots to grab dinner, and maybe rally the group to toast your adventure.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
There are no meals included on this day.
Included activities
Istanbul - Historical Peninsula Tour
DAY 15
Istanbul
This morning your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your group leader and travel pals. If you would like to spend more time checking out all Istanbul has to offer, your leader will be able to give you the best tips for making the most of your time in the city. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
Meals
Breakfast

Inclusions

Meals

12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner

Transport

Ferry, Local bus, Private Bus, Boat, Overnight Bus

Accommodation

Hotel (8 nights), Pension (3 nights), Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights), Overnight Bus (1 night)

Activities

Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour

Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)

Ayvalik – Orientation Walk

Ephesus - Archaeological site visit

Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park

Kekova - Turkish Coast day sailing

Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour

Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City

Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home

Cappadocia - Sunset Hike

Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley

Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration

Istanbul - Historical Peninsula Tour

Add on activities

Istanbul - Blue Mosque Visit - Free

Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) - TRY200

Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show - TRY1500

Istanbul - Turkish Hamam (inc. massage) - EUR100

Istanbul - Galata Tower - EUR30

Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - EUR25

Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - EUR15

Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts - EUR17

Troy - Guided visit - EUR27

Selcuk - Basilica of St John - EUR6

Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) - EUR15

Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15

Pamukkale - Cleopatra Ancient Pool - TRY340

Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free

Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY250

Antalya - Antalya Museum - EUR15

Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City - EUR15

Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath - EUR60

Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight - EUR260

Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight - EUR310

Goreme - Whirling dervish performance - EUR30

Goreme - Open Air Museum - EUR20

Goreme - Bike Riding - EUR230

Dates and availability

Starting

Ending

Remaining

Prices From

Saturday Oct 12, 2024

Saturday Oct 26, 2024

Trip size max: 16 - Sold Out

Monday Oct 14, 2024

Monday Oct 28, 2024

Trip size max: 16 - Sold Out

Saturday Oct 19, 2024

Saturday Nov 02, 2024

Trip size max: 16 - Sold Out

Saturday Oct 26, 2024

Saturday Nov 09, 2024

Trip size max: 16 - Sold Out

Saturday Mar 15, 2025

Saturday Mar 29, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 15 spaces left

£1,375£1,306

Saturday Mar 29, 2025

Saturday Apr 12, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Saturday Apr 05, 2025

Saturday Apr 19, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Saturday Apr 12, 2025

Saturday Apr 26, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Saturday Apr 19, 2025

Saturday May 03, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Wednesday Apr 23, 2025

Wednesday May 07, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,491

Saturday Apr 26, 2025

Saturday May 10, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 14 spaces left

£1,375

Wednesday Apr 30, 2025

Wednesday May 14, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Saturday May 03, 2025

Saturday May 17, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Saturday May 10, 2025

Saturday May 24, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,375

Saturday May 17, 2025

Saturday May 31, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 14 spaces left

£1,375

Important notes

1. A single supplement is bookable if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip and is subject to availability. The single supplement excludes Day 3 & 4 (multi-share Guesthouse) and Day 13 (Overnight Bus).

2. Some accommodation on this tour is is multi shared. Multishare typically includes triple and quad rooms. You may be required to share with group members of same gender. People travelling together may occasionally be separated due to rooming configurations.

Reviews (1398)

5 stars

1128

4 stars

180

3 stars

Ashley Orgain

Jul 14, 2024

Amazing sites! The trip is travel heavy to get to the various places but very worth it. Everyone on my trip except one couple was also travelling solo and I met some great friends.

Ashley Orgain

Jul 14, 2024

Amazing sites! The trip is travel heavy to get to the various places but very worth it. Everyone on my trip except one couple was also travelling solo and I met some great friends.

Ashley Orgain

Jul 14, 2024

Amazing sites! The trip is travel heavy to get to the various places but very worth it. Everyone on my trip except one couple was also travelling solo and I met some great friends.

Lili Robinson

Jul 12, 2024

This tour was amazing. I was so surprised with how in depth and authentic our experience was. The itinerary is a perfect balance of culture, history, coast lines, food and bucket list items. I would 100% recommend this tour to anyone. There are a few budget friendly factors with hotels and modes of travel but they are all part of the experience and worth it for the amazing sights along the way. Our guide Ilter had so much knowledge of Turkey and played a big part in my amazing experience.

Alana Clapperton

Jul 12, 2024

The Real Turkey tour was amazing, the locations and the included experiences were must do’s. İlter was the best tour guide and added so much value with his knowledge and guidance throughout the trip! I would recommend allowing a few more days either at the start or the end to see more of Istanbul 😊

Alana Clapperton

Jul 12, 2024

Lili Robinson

Jul 12, 2024

Alana Clapperton

Jul 12, 2024

Lili Robinson

Jul 12, 2024

Daniel Shmakov

Jun 14, 2024

Nehir was an awesome tour guide, he is a knowledgeable and reliable tour guide. Thanks to his personality, he helped the group get to know each other well.

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