tuuur.com - Worldwide Trips

Basix

18 to 35s

Real Turkey

4.8

Excellent

68 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 (11 nights), Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights), Overnight Bus (1 night)

From £1,216(15 days)

Trip Informations

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, head into a home of a local family, where you’ll be treated to a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal.

Wander ancient sites with a local leader – thought all the best Roman ruins were in Italy? Think again! Turkey is home to one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus.

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

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

Want to see the real Turkey with a small group of likeminded travellers? On this 15-day adventure, you'll discover the cultural melting pot of the landscape that 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 and the Trojan army, making strong connections along the way. 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!

DAY 1
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.
Optional 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
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
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours. 
DAY 3
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
Optional activities
Troy - Guided visit - EUR27
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours. 
DAY 4
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
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
Optional activities
Selcuk - Basilica of St John - EUR6
Selcuk - Meryemana (Mary's House) - EUR22
Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. 
DAY 6
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. Take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and check out the 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
Optional activities
Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. 
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has announced that Cleopatra’s Pool will be closed for renovations. Unfortunately, there is currently no confirmed timeline for completion.
DAY 7
Day 7 • Kas
Today, maybe get up early for a sunrise hot air balloon over Pamukkale before making your way south to the coast of Turkey to see the whitewashed buildings of Kas. Right on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll be able to explore this area and its Old Town this afternoon. You could be lazing by the beach and taking in the views out over the sea, 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 and feast on local delights in a restaurant tucked away in a corner of the Old Town.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Optional activities
Pamukkale - Hot Air Balloon - EUR180
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours. 
DAY 8
Day 8 • Southern Coast Sailing / Kas
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 Kas for a free evening.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Lunch
Included activities
Kas - Turkish Coast day sailing
DAY 9
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
Optional activities
Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY250
Antalya - Necropolis Museum - EUR5
Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City (including transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR48
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours. 
DAY 10
Day 10 • Antalya / Konya
This morning, say goodbye to those leaving and meet your new travel buddies at a second welcome meeting at 8 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. Here, you can visit the mausoleum of Rumi, a famous Sufi poet. For dinner, ask your leader 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
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
DAY 11
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. You'll also make a stop at Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley. Then, check out a traditional pottery demonstration with a local artisan, revealing all the secrets to creating the perfect ceramics. 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
Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
DAY 12
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. Today is free for you to explore on your own. Maybe check out one of the picturesque valleys in the area or park up at a cafe and take in the views. Your leader will know the best places to see! Then, why not take a hike and find a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset.
Accommodation
Hotel (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Included activities
Cappadocia - Sunset Hike
Optional activities
Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath - EUR60
Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight - EUR200
Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight - EUR230
Goreme - Turkish Night with Dinner (min. 4 participants) - EUR40
Goreme - Whirling Dervish Performance (including transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR50
Special information
You can only book the optional hot air balloon activity with your trip leader. Your leader will discuss this with the group early in the trip.

The price of the hot air balloon activity is indicative only as the prices may fluctuate between different seasons. Your leader will advise you of the correct rate at the time of booking.

Due to local regulations, hot air balloon flight times vary. This means that your flight may be before or just after sunrise. This is subject to the activity provider’s discretion and is not within our control.
DAY 13
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
Optional activities
Goreme - Bike Riding - EUR230
Goreme - Open Air Museum (including entrance & transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR30
Goreme – Mosaic Lamp Workshop (including transport) (min. 2 participants) - EUR50
Special information
Your travel time today will be approximately 12 hours. We’re committed to reducing our carbon emissions. One way we’re doing this is by assessing our transportation options and selecting a lower-carbon alternative where possible. Flights are generally the highest carbon-emitting transport on our trips, so we’ve included an overnight bus on this trip instead. The bus has reclining seats, air con and power outlets. At a minimum, there will be two stops during the drive.
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
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. 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
Optional activities
Istanbul - Kadikoy Taste Tour (including public transport) - EUR46
DAY 15
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 (11 nights), Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights), Overnight Bus (1 night)

Included activities

Gallipoli - Battlefields Tour

Ayvalik - Copmadam Visit (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)

Ayvalik – Orientation Walk

Ephesus - Archaeological site visit

Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park

Kas - Turkish Coast day sailing

Antalya - Kaleici Walking Tour

Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City

Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home

Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration

Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley

Cappadocia - Sunset Hike

Istanbul - Historical Peninsula Tour

Optional 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) - EUR22

Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - EUR15

Pamukkale - Hierapolis Museum - Free

Pamukkale - Hot Air Balloon - EUR180

Antalya - Mermerli Beach Kaleici - TRY250

Antalya - Necropolis Museum - EUR5

Antalya - Aspendos Ancient City (including transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR48

Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath - EUR60

Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight - EUR200

Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight - EUR230

Goreme - Turkish Night with Dinner (min. 4 participants) - EUR40

Goreme - Whirling Dervish Performance (including transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR50

Goreme - Bike Riding - EUR230

Goreme - Open Air Museum (including entrance & transport) (min. 4 participants) - EUR30

Goreme – Mosaic Lamp Workshop (including transport) (min. 2 participants) - EUR50

Istanbul - Kadikoy Taste Tour (including public transport) - EUR46

Dates and availability

Starting

Ending

Remaining

Prices From

Saturday Nov 01, 2025

Saturday Nov 15, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - Sold Out

Saturday Nov 08, 2025

Saturday Nov 22, 2025

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,430£1,216

Saturday Mar 14, 2026

Saturday Mar 28, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,441

Saturday Mar 21, 2026

Saturday Apr 04, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 13 spaces left

£1,458

Saturday Mar 28, 2026

Saturday Apr 11, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 14 spaces left

£1,458

Saturday Apr 04, 2026

Saturday Apr 18, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,496

Saturday Apr 11, 2026

Saturday Apr 25, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,441

Saturday Apr 18, 2026

Saturday May 02, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,496

Wednesday Apr 22, 2026

Wednesday May 06, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,441

Saturday Apr 25, 2026

Saturday May 09, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,496

Saturday May 02, 2026

Saturday May 16, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 15 spaces left

£1,496

Saturday May 09, 2026

Saturday May 23, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,524

Saturday May 16, 2026

Saturday May 30, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,524

Saturday May 23, 2026

Saturday Jun 06, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,441

Wednesday May 27, 2026

Wednesday Jun 10, 2026

Trip size max: 16 - 16 spaces left

£1,546

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 with shared bathroom facilities instead of ensuite. You may be required to share with group members of same gender. People travelling together may occasionally be separated due to rooming configurations.

Reviews (0)

No review found

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS

TRIP STARTS

TRIP ENDS