Set out on a captivating 12-day journey through the heart of Turkey, enjoying the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. This comprehensive tour starts in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. As you venture beyond the capital, you’ll discover ancient wonders, serene coastal towns, and the otherworldly terrain of Cappadocia. With expert guidance and comfortable lodging, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Turkey’s remarkable treasures.
Key Points
• Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar, to immerse in the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
• Discover the Bosphorus Strait and coastal city of Izmir, with visits to ancient Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Temple of Artemis.
• Uncover the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Hierapolis, including the Pamukkale travertine terraces, to gain insights into Greco-Roman civilization.
• Relax in Fethiye’s 12 Islands, with opportunities for swimming, exploring hidden coves, and enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch.
• Journey to Konya and Cappadocia, exploring the Mevlana Museum, Seljuk Caravanserai, and the unique landscapes of fairy chimneys and rock-cut churches.
You can check availability for your dates here:
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Istanbul
Contents
- Key Points
- Explore Istanbul’s Iconic Landmarks
- Discover the Bosphorus and Izmir
- Uncover Ancient Ephesus and Hierapolis
- Relax in Fethiye’s 12 Islands
- Experience Antalya’s Natural Wonders
- Journey to Mystical Konya and Cappadocia
- Delve Into Cappadocia’s Unique Landscapes
- Departure From Istanbul
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
- Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
- Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?
- What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Istanbul
- More Tours in Istanbul
- More Tour Reviews in Istanbul
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Istanbul we have recnetly reviewed
Explore Istanbul’s Iconic Landmarks
The tour begins in Istanbul, where travelers can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome.
The Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, now a museum, impresses with its massive dome and intricate mosaics.
Next, they’ll visit the Blue Mosque, known for its stunning blue tile work and six minarets.
The Hippodrome, once the center of Constantinople’s civic life, features ancient obelisks and sculptures.
After touring these historic sites, travelers can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, with its endless stalls selling handicrafts, spices, and Turkish delights.
This introduction to Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage sets the stage for the rest of the thrilling Turkey highlights tour.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Istanbul.
Discover the Bosphorus and Izmir
On the third day, travelers embark on a Bosphorus Tour, gliding along the strait that divides Europe and Asia, before catching a flight to the coastal city of Izmir.
They’ll spend the night in the nearby resort town of Kusadasi. The Bosphorus Tour offers a unique perspective on Istanbul, showcasing its iconic landmarks from the water.
Upon arrival in Izmir, the group will have time to explore the charming seaside city, known for its vibrant culture and rich history.
The itinerary includes:
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Visiting the ancient ruins of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Stopping at the House of the Virgin Mary, a significant Catholic pilgrimage site.
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Exploring the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
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Enjoying the coastal views and lively atmosphere of Kusadasi.
Uncover Ancient Ephesus and Hierapolis
Typically, the tour continues with an exploration of the ancient ruins of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved Greco-Roman architecture.
Travelers then visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a significant Catholic pilgrimage destination, before uncovering the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Next, the tour heads to Pamukkale, known for its striking travertine terraces and the ruins of the ancient spa city of Hierapolis.
Visitors can swim in the warm, mineral-rich waters and explore the well-preserved Roman theater, necropolis, and other archaeological sites.
This immersion in Turkey’s rich history and cultural heritage is a highlight of the 12-day tour.
Relax in Fethiye’s 12 Islands
After exploring the ancient wonders of Ephesus and Pamukkale, the tour moves to the picturesque coastal town of Fethiye, where travelers can relax and enjoy a boat tour of its stunning 12 Islands.
The 12 Island Boat Tour takes visitors on a tranquil journey through a collection of small, uninhabited islands.
Highlights include:
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Swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise waters
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Discovering hidden coves and beaches
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Spotting diverse marine life and birdwatching
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Enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch on board
This leisurely excursion provides a perfect break from the busy sightseeing schedule, allowing guests to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of the Aegean coastline.
More Great Tours NearbyExperience Antalya’s Natural Wonders
The tour continues to the stunning coastal city of Antalya, where travelers can enjoy the region’s natural wonders.
Highlights include a cable car ride up to the Tahtali Mountains, offering panoramic views of Antalya’s lush landscapes and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below.
Visitors can also explore the captivating Duden Waterfalls, where cascading waters flow through verdant vegetation, creating a serene and breathtaking natural spectacle.
This city tour provides an opportunity to witness Antalya’s blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, leaving travelers with lasting memories of their Turkish adventure.
Journey to Mystical Konya and Cappadocia
Next, travelers embark on a journey to the mystical cities of Konya and Cappadocia, seeing the region’s rich cultural heritage and otherworldly landscapes.
In Konya, they’ll visit the Mevlana Museum, the former home of the famous Sufi philosopher Rumi, and explore the historic Seljuk Caravanserai, a relic from the Silk Road era.
The tour then ventures into Cappadocia, a land of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and ancient underground cities.
Highlights include:
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Exploring the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning rock-cut churches.
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Marveling at the surreal ‘fairy chimneys’ formed by volcanic eruptions.
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Descending into the subterranean world of the ancient Underground Cities.
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Witnessing the breathtaking views from a hot air balloon at sunrise (optional).
Delve Into Cappadocia’s Unique Landscapes
Travelers marvel at Cappadocia’s ethereal landscapes, a surreal testament to the region’s volcanic origins. Otherworldly rock formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys,’ dot the terrain, their tapered spires and caps formed by erosion over millennia. Visitors can explore this captivating natural wonder up close, discovering ancient cave dwellings and troglodyte villages hidden amid the unique geological formations.
| Highlights | Experiences |
|---|---|
| Fairy Chimneys | Hot Air Balloon Rides |
| Göreme Open Air Museum | Hiking Through Valleys |
| Underground Cities | Exploring Cave Dwellings |
Exploring Cappadocia is truly a one-of-a-kind adventure, where travelers can explore a land sculpted by the forces of nature over countless centuries.
Departure From Istanbul
After exploring the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, the tour concludes with a return flight to Istanbul, where travelers bid farewell to their Turkish adventure.
On the final day, participants enjoy one last opportunity to enjoy the vibrant energy of Istanbul before departing.
The tour package includes:
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Convenient airport transfers to ensure a stress-free departure.
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Opportunity to explore any remaining sights or shops in Istanbul on your own.
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Personalized support from the tour guide to ensure a smooth transition back home.
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Memories of the incredible 12-day journey through Turkey’s most iconic destinations.
With the tour’s conclusion, travelers leave with a deep appreciation for the country’s rich history, captivating culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?
Yes, this 12-day Turkey highlights tour can be booked for solo travelers. The tour operator offers a single supplement option, allowing solo travelers to enjoy the itinerary and activities with their own private room.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. Group sizes can vary, but many guided tours of this nature accommodate a range of group sizes from small to medium, typically between 10-20 travelers.
Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
The tour company offers a 10% discount for students and seniors. Participants can take advantage of the discounted rate, which brings the per-person price down from Kč 44,627 to Kč 40,164.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?
Yes, customers can customize the 12-day Turkey tour itinerary to include additional activities. The tour operator offers flexible options to personalize the experience based on individual interests and preferences.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Customers can easily cancel their booking and receive their money back if their plans change.
From Istanbul: 12-DAY Turkey Highlights Tour With Lodging
Recap
Set out on a captivating 12-day Turkey Highlights Tour, enjoying the nation’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
Explore iconic landmarks, ancient wonders, and tranquil islands, while indulging in the local cuisine.
With comfortable lodging and expert guidance, this tour promises unforgettable memories and cultural insights, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Turkey.
You can check availability for your dates here:
