Turkey
Explore Istanbul, Troy, Ephesus & Cappadocia
Sample Itinerary - 9 Days & 8 Nights
This Customizable Journey is Available Year-Round
Best Travel Seasons: March - July & September - October
Tour is led by a Licensed English Speaking Local Guide
Tour Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable Turkey tailor-made tour from Istanbul to Cappadocia! Explore the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, adorned with blue Iznik tiles, and Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural gem. Wander the vibrant Grand Bazaar Istanbul and historic Hippodrome. Discover Bursa’s Green Tomb and Great Mosque in Bursa. Visit the ancient city of Troy and Ephesus’ Roman ruins, including the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. Join a pide-making demonstration in Selçuk. Explore Konya’s Mevlana Museum, Sultanhanı Caravanserai, and Cappadocia’s Göreme Open-Air Museum with Karanlık Kilise. Admire Pasabag Valley and Avanos pottery heritage for a magical adventure.
Tour Itinerary
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Welcome to an unforgettable journey through Turkey! Arrive at Istanbul International Airport and complete immigration at Passport Control, followed by baggage claim and customs clearance. At the arrival lounge, our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to a comfortable 3-star hotel in Istanbul for check-in. Spend your evening at leisure, exploring the vibrant neighborhoods near your hotel and savoring your first authentic Turkish dinner. Overnight at a cozy 3-star hotel in Istanbul.
Note: Hotel check-in is available from 3:00 PM on Day 1. -
Embark on a guided half-day walking tour of Istanbul’s historic treasures. Begin at the iconic Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, famous for its intricate blue Iznik tiles and unique six minarets. Next, visit the Hippodrome, the ancient heart of Istanbul’s sporting and political life, once hosting chariot races and grand events. After a delightful lunch, explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural marvel built by Emperor Justinian, renowned as the Church of Divine Wisdom. Spend your afternoon at leisure, wandering Istanbul’s charming streets and discovering authentic local cuisine. Overnight at Royan Hagia Sophia or a similar 4-star hotel.
Optional Afternoon Activities:
Visit the historic Galata Tower for panoramic views of Istanbul.
Explore the mysterious Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir.
Discover ancient artifacts at the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.
Immerse yourself in culture at the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts.
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After a delicious Turkish breakfast, set out on your own to explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, including the Harem and Hagia Irene. Spanning nearly 350,000 m², this historic palace offers a glimpse into Ottoman grandeur (excluding Gülhane Park, now a public park). Enjoy a leisurely afternoon discovering Istanbul’s vibrant culture. Overnight at Royan Hagia Sophia or a similar 4-star hotel.
Optional Afternoon Activities:
Shop for handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar, Turkey’s largest and oldest covered market with over 4,000 shops.
Visit the Spice Market, a 17th-century market offering spices, dried fruits, nuts, and more.
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Depart Istanbul for Bursa, where a local guide will lead you through the city’s highlights, including the Muradiye Complex, the Green Tomb, and the Great Mosque of Bursa. Stroll through the historic Tophane district, home to the tombs of Osman Gazi and Orhan Gazi, founders of the Ottoman Empire. Afterward, travel to Çanakkale, a vibrant harbor town known for its lively student scene and scenic waterfront. Spend your evening exploring the bustling promenade. Overnight at Canakkale Buyuk Truva or a similar 4-star hotel.
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Journey from Çanakkale to the legendary ancient city of Troy, where a local guide will bring its history to life. Continue to Ayvalık for a relaxing lunch stop before heading south to Selçuk, a charming town near Ephesus. Overnight at Kalehan hotel or a similar 4-star lodging.
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Enjoy a full-day guided tour starting with the ancient city of Ephesus, home to some of the world’s best-preserved Roman ruins. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and immerse yourself in its rich history. Back in Selçuk, participate in a hands-on pide-making demonstration, learning to craft traditional Turkish flatbread and enjoying it for lunch. In the afternoon, head to Izmir for an orientation walk through the vibrant Kemeraltı Bazaar, a bustling marketplace filled with local flavors. Later, board an overnight train to Konya for a unique travel experience.
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Arrive in Konya and enjoy breakfast on your own. Begin your guided exploration with a visit to the Mevlana Museum, the spiritual heart of Sufism and the resting place of the poet Rumi. Continue to Sultanhanı, home to a remarkably preserved 13th-century Seljuk Caravanserai along the Silk Road. Stop at Selime to explore the stunning rock-cut Selime Cathedral before arriving in Cappadocia, a region famed for its fairy-tale landscapes. Overnight at Mustafa Cappadocia or a similar 4-star hotel.
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Set off for a guided half-day tour of Göreme, visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to the frescoed Karanlık Kilise and Tokalı Church. Drive through the striking Pasabag Valley to Avanos, where you’ll enjoy lunch and visit a local ceramic museum to explore Cappadocia’s pottery heritage. Continue to Devrent Valley, then visit Urgüp and Uchisar, marveling at the region’s surreal landscapes. Overnight at Mustafa Cappadocia or a similar 4-star hotel.
Optional Afternoon Activity:
Explore the Kaymakli Underground City, a fascinating network of caves with living quarters, kitchens, and more.
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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul, connecting to your international flight to the US. Bid farewell to Turkey with memories of an incredible journey.
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We offer Tailor-Made Itineraries & Custom Quotes for Your Journey to Turkey
All itineraries can be tailored to match your interests and budget for a truly personalized experience. Pricing is based on double occupancy. Rates for solo travelers are available upon request. The pricing listed below is for 2025 travel dates and may vary depending on your preferred itinerary and seasonality. Contact our travel consultant today to receive a personalized quote and begin designing your ideal Turkey journey!
Land Tour Price Only (International airfare, taxes & fuel surcharges are not included)
Two Travelers: From $3,825 Per Person (Double Room Occupancy)
Single Room Supplement: $400 Per Person (Applies to all nights of the tour for those opting for a single room.)
Tour Includes
One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
The final documents packet will be mailed before the trip.
Transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants arriving & departing with the group.
Eight (8) nights of accommodation at 4* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
Izmir - Konya train ride (economy class).
Service of a licensed local English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are as per the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Tour Does Not Include
International round airfare.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Personal expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, items from hotels mini bars, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Optional Hot Air Balloon Tour (approx. $300-350 per person).
Travel Insurance (Recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodation, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the US and overseas.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, and waiters.
Domestic flights Nevsehir - Istanbul.
Any item not mentioned as included.
Tour Fitness Level
Moderate: Suitable for travelers of all ages in good health, with a moderate level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. The tour will include some long walking days and periods of standing while exploring various sites. Some attractions may involve walking on uneven terrain or navigating steep staircases. Expect a few elevation changes, a well-paced but busy schedule, and several long overland drives. If you have any questions or would like more details about the trip, we’re happy to discuss it with you.
Lodging Level
Comfortable (3/4-stars): Stay in cozy lodges and hotels with comfortable rooms and en-suite bathrooms. While the services may be more straightforward, you’ll still enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, with essential amenities and on-site facilities that provide a comfortable, hassle-free experience, all meeting international standards.
Visa & Passport
U.S. citizens can enter Turkey without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to ensure they have the correct and valid visa for entry. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your departure date from Türkiye and should have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
What to Expect on This Journey
This journey through Turkey will take you on a fascinating exploration of the country's rich history, culture, and natural wonders. Expect to embark on scenic drives and daily sightseeing tours across iconic landmarks and archaeological sites. The journey involves moderate walking and some travel through areas with uneven or cobblestone streets, especially in ancient sites like Ephesus and Cappadocia. Many of these sites are historic, and while elevators are not always available, the experience of exploring them on foot is an integral part of the tour.
Throughout the trip, transportation will be in air-conditioned vehicles for your comfort. Some routes may include longer travel distances between cities, but frequent rest stops will give you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the breathtaking landscapes of Turkey’s diverse regions. As you visit places like the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia or the historic city of Ephesus, you’ll encounter both paved and rough terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Expect early mornings for activities like hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia or visits to the ruins of Aphrodisias and Troy.
By signing up for this tour, participants confirm that they have read and understood all terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health. A spirit of adventure, patience, and flexibility will enhance your experience as we explore the rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Turkey. Undiscovered Frontiers strives to deliver a seamless travel experience. However, adjustments to the itinerary or activity order may occasionally be necessary to accommodate local conditions or unforeseen events. In rare cases of Force Majeure, changes or cancellations may be required to prioritize the safety and comfort of all participants.
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