Turkey
Discover the Rich History & Culture
Sample Itinerary - 11 Days & 10 Nights
This Customizable Journey is Available Year-Round
Best Travel Seasons: March - July & September - October
Tour is led by a Licensed English Speaking Local Guides
Tour Introduction & Journey Map
Turkey, a vital bridge between Europe and Asia, offers an unforgettable cultural and historical journey through ancient antiquity. The Sea of Marmara region, a historic intermediary connecting continents, has significantly shaped world history from ancient times to today, linking the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas with the Black Sea through strategic seaway straits. Begin your Istanbul cultural heritage tour in a city renowned for its fascinating history, vibrant cultural heritage, and warm Turkish hospitality. Continue your Cappadocia adventure tour to explore breathtaking moonscape landscapes, iconic fairy chimneys, and ancient caves. Join us for a fascinating Turkey discovery tour, immersing you in the rich tapestry of ancient history and diverse cultures.
Tour Itinerary
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Welcome to your 10-day cultural heritage tour of Turkey! Arrive at Istanbul Airport and proceed through Passport Control for immigration, followed by baggage collection and customs clearance. Upon exiting, meet our representative in the arrival lounge who will assist with your transfer to a comfortable 3-star hotel in Istanbul. Check-in is available from 3:00 PM. Spend your evening exploring nearby attractions or relaxing at your leisure in the vibrant city of Istanbul, known for its rich history and cultural landmarks.
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Start your Istanbul historical walking tour with breakfast at your 3-star hotel. Visit the iconic Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), renowned for its stunning blue Iznik tiles and unique six minarets. Next, explore the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the ancient center of chariot races and political events. After a delightful lunch, marvel at Hagia Sophia, a 6th-century architectural masterpiece built by Emperor Justinian. Continue to the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, one of the world’s largest museums, housing over one million Greek, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts. Conclude your day at Topkapi Palace, including the Harem and Hagia Irene, spanning nearly 350,000 m² of historical grandeur. Overnight in a 3-star Istanbul hotel.
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After breakfast, visit Dolmabahce Palace, a significant Ottoman-era site that served as Ataturk’s Presidential Palace. Stroll through Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, stopping at a famous dessert shop to savor authentic Turkish delights. Admire the panoramic views from Galata Tower, a historic symbol of Istanbul. Then, immerse yourself in the Grand Bazaar, Turkey’s largest covered market with over 4,000 shops offering handicrafts, carpets, and souvenirs. End your day at the Spice Market, a 17th-century market filled with spices, dried fruits, and local delicacies. Overnight in a 3-star Istanbul hotel.
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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a short flight to Cappadocia, a region famous for its unique rock formations and fairy chimneys. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will take you to Kaymakli Underground City, a fascinating network of caves used by early Christians to escape invaders. Visit the Three Beauties, Cappadocia’s most iconic fairy chimneys, and explore Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley, for its whimsical rock formations. Overnight in a 3-star Cappadocia hotel.
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Begin your day with an optional hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, offering breathtaking views of the region’s volcanic landscapes and fairy chimneys (additional cost). After breakfast, visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, home to rock-cut chapels and monasteries adorned with Byzantine frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Continue to Pasabag and Uchisar, known for their stunning rock formations and panoramic views. Overnight in a 3-star Cappadocia hotel.
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After an early breakfast, fly to Izmir, a vibrant coastal city. Meet your guide and driver and head to Sirince Village, a charming Turkish-Orthodox village known for its cobblestone streets and local handicrafts. Sample Sirince’s famous sweet and fruity wines at a cozy café. Afterward, transfer to Kusadasi, a beautiful coastal town. Overnight in a 3-star Kusadasi hotel.
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Enjoy breakfast before heading to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Walk along the Marble Road, admiring structures like the Temple of Hadrian and the Library of Celsus, a stunning Roman architectural marvel. Explore the Great Theater of Ephesus, the largest surviving Roman theater, and the luxurious Terrace Houses. Return to Kusadasi for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
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After breakfast, travel to Aphrodisias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient marble quarries and the Temple of Aphrodite from the 3rd century BC. Explore the city’s well-preserved theater, agora, and bath complexes. Continue to Hierapolis, an ancient cure center in Pamukkale, featuring the Necropolis, the largest ancient cemetery in Anatolia, and a Roman-style theater. Transfer to Izmir for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
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After breakfast, drive to Pergamon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Attalid dynasty. Visit the Athenaeum Library and the Temple of Athena, marveling at their historical significance. Explore the Sanctuary of Asclepius, a renowned healing center. After lunch, continue to Troy, another UNESCO site famous for the Trojan Horse and legends of Achilles and Helen. Transfer to Canakkale for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
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Visit the Gallipoli battlefields, including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine Australian Memorial, Chunuk Bair New Zealand Memorial, and the 57th Regiment Turkish Memorial. Reflect on the historical significance of the Dardanelles and ANZAC sites, including Brighton Beach and Johnston’s Jolly. Afterward, return to Istanbul for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
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After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your return flight to the US, concluding your unforgettable 10-day Turkey cultural and historical tour.
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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 solo or double occupancy. 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 $3,950 per person (Double Room Occupancy)
Single Room Supplement: $750 per person (Applies to all nights of the tour for those opting for a single room.)
Tour Includes:
One-on-one virtual tour briefing prior to the tour.
The final documents packet will be mailed before the trip.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Ten (10) nights of accommodation at 3* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
Service of a licensed local English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are as per the itinerary.
All meals mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.
Porterage at the hotels.
Tour Does Not Include:
International Air USA – Istanbul - USA.
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. $250-300 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 Istanbul – Nevsehir, Nevsehir – Izmir.
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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