Turkey Vacation & Tour Packages

Tour guide riding with guests through the landscape in Cappadocia, on a sunny cloudless day

Overflowing with Mediterranean energy and Middle Eastern hospitality, Turkey feels like a continent unto itself.

With Greco-Roman ruins, a sun-drenched Turquoise Coast , tiny hillside villages, delicately decorated minarets, and the world’s most spectacular historic mosques – Turkey is impossible to pigeonhole. If you know where to look among the shifting mountain backdrops, you’ll find one-of-a-kind sights and experiences that will set up camp in your heart. Break bread (and the fast) with new friends during Ramazan in the courtyard of the 17th-century Blue Mosque. Explore the hand-forged cave churches of Cappadocia in a landscape of towering wind-carved fairy chimneys. Sink your teeth into a gozleme filled with veggies you pulled from the dirt yourself. Discover Turkey with a local who is passionate about the land they call home.

Our Turkey trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Turkey tour reviews

Filter by rating

Turkey Uncovered

Turkey Explored

Turkey Highlights

Cappadocia Short Break

Articles of Turkey

Don’t miss these top destinations in Turkey

Turkey’s most underrated experience: mountain biking in Cappadocia

6 family holidays with a difference

Morag was left disabled after a hit and run. But that won’t stop her from seeing the world.

Hamams and hot-air balloons: What it’s like getting around Turkey as a plus-size traveller

Travel is back and we just dropped 10 new Premium adventures

6 unique places you can stay on an Intrepid Premium trip

The top 8 destinations to travel to (and give back to) in December 2024

Turkey departures by month

Popular regions, turkey at a glance, capital city.

Ankara (5.6 million)

(GMT+02:00) Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Turkey

Culture and customs.

Turkey has a strong national identity and both its location and the legacy of the Ottoman Empire have contributed to a cultural mix of influences from  Europe ,  Asia  and the  Middle East . Cultural practices vary significantly depending on which region of Turkey you are travelling in. It's important to remember that while most Turkish cities are modern metropolises, Turks can still be quite traditional.

Travelers will find Turkish people to be polite and quite formal in their greetings, kind and hospitable as hosts and friendly as new acquaintances. While bars and nightclubs are common in big cities like Istanbul, outside of these environments it’s a good idea to take your cues from the locals and behave in a subdued manner. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, but raucous behavior should be contained to the appropriate venues and kept off the street.

While Turkey is nominally secular, the vast majority of the population identifies as Muslim and Islamic holidays like Ramazan (Ramadan) and Eid are widely observed and recognized as public holidays.

How to be a respectful traveler in Turkey

  • Clean your plate If you’re eating with locals (particularly as a guest in their home), you’ll make them very happy if you eat multiple servings and finish everything on your plate. Plan ahead and arrive on an empty stomach for extra points.
  • Know when to haggle Remember the first rule of bartering is to decide how much you’re willing to spend beforehand and use that as your guide. In regular shops – as opposed to markets – don’t attempt to haggle over prices.
  • Respect the elderly Small gestures like letting elderly folks go ahead of you through doors, offering them your seat on public transport and generally being considerate and respectful of older people will be greatly appreciated.
  • Keep criticism private It’s a good rule of thumb not to criticize the culture, government or politics of Turkey. While not all Turks are strict nationalists, you could cause a lot of trouble and offense. You should especially avoid discussing topics related to the Kurdish or Armenian people. When in doubt, follow the conversational lead of the locals. If you’re traveling with Intrepid, ask your leader for guidance. If you’re after a little insight into the geopolitical complexities of Turkey, check out the 'further reading' list below for some perspectives from Turkish authors.

History and government

Ancient history.

There is evidence of hominin habitation in the region known as Anatolia, or Asian Turkey, that dates as far back as 500,000 years and ample evidence of numerous Neolithic settlements popping up between 8000 and 10,000 years ago. 

Notable civilizations who occupied the prehistoric Anatolian region were the Hattians (circa 2500 BC to 2000 BC), the Hittites (circa 1700 BC to 1200 BC) and the Assyrians. From around 2000 BC, Greeks began settling in north-western Anatolia and the southern coasts, establishing individual city-states.

Pre-modern history

The majority of Anatolia was conquered by Alexander the Great in 334 BC. After his death, a succession of various Greek-Macedonian rulers controlled the area until 133 BC when the region was given to the Roman Republic.

Roman control had little impact on the dominant classical Greek culture, which continued to thrive in Anatolia until the region’s absorption into the Byzantine Empire.

Between the sixth and 11th centuries a massive wave of what is known as the ‘Turkic migration’ occurred, and millions traveled across Central Asia into Europe and the Middle East . Among this migratory wave were various Turkic tribes who brought the Islamic religion and Turkic languages that dominate modern Turkey.

The Byzantine Empire sustained a number of invasions and limped forward before finally collapsing in the 14th century, by which point much of Anatolia was already controlled by tribal micro-kingdoms. One of these Turkic tribal groups, the Ottomans, emerged as the dominant regional power during the 15th century and enjoyed a few hundred years of expansion and growth until territorial losses forced its eventual decline in the 19th century.

20th century

The final dissolution of the Ottoman Empire after defeat at the hands of the Allies in WWI was followed by a brief period of Allied occupation before the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk became the republic’s first president and introduced radical reforms to modernize Turkey and imbue it with a unique identity that was separate from that of the former empire. His ideas continue to be influential in contemporary politics today.

In the decades since the death of Ataturk in 1938, Turkey has seen a number of swings between democratic and autocratic governance, interrupted by brief periods of military governance and occasional political chaos.

Turkey today is a presidential republic where the ruling political parties have historically been nationalist and somewhat economically liberal, with a varying amount of Islamic influence. 

Far-left political activist groups and minority rebel groups have waxed and waned in terms of public and political influence. The most notable is the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a militant political group originally formed with the intention of creating a Kurdish separatist state. The arrest of PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan in 1999 was a crushing blow to the once-powerful group, though they continue to operate with the stated aim of ensuring the rights and autonomy of the Kurdish people in Turkey and beyond.   

More recently, Turkey has experienced relative prosperity and political stability, though the economy – based on mineral mining, agriculture, tourism and construction – continues to fluctuate between growth and stasis.

Eating and drinking

Home to some of the tastiest produce you can get your hands on, traditional cooking methods and influence from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Turkey’s food is surprising, delicious and delightful (pun definitely intended).

Plant-based options

Many Turkish favorites are already non-meat. Gozleme, simit and cig kofte are all vegetarian and easy to find in markets, street corner food stands and restaurants. Vegans will have a trickier time finding pre-made dishes that contain no animal products. However, Turkey has an abundance of markets selling fresh produce, bread and extras like hummus and fava bean dip. With a little planning, vegans will be able to assemble meze-style lunches when pre-made options aren’t available.

In dishes like soups and stews it’s a good idea to watch out for beef stock – called et suyu – as it is used frequently even in ‘vegetarian’ dishes.

Must-try Turkish dishes and beverages

  • Gozleme This spinach and cheese pastry is a tasty budget-friendly bite that will satisfy everyone (especially vegetarians).
  • Lokum Love it or hate it, this divisive treat (known internationally as Turkish delight) can be found in shops, bazaars and street stalls nearly everywhere in Turkey. Made from rosewater, lemon, sugar, cornflour and water, it's relatively easy to make… and even easier to eat.
  • Simit As far as quick and easy snacks go it’s hard to pass up simit, a bread similar to a sesame-encrusted bagel. Carts selling simit can be found at bus and train stations, main streets and other busy thoroughfares in most cities.
  • Cig kofte Made with bulgur, onion, tomato paste and spices, this south-eastern specialty is essentially a big ol’ vegetarian ‘meatball’. The traditional kind (made with raw meat) is now banned, so you can eat without fear of food poisoning.
  • Fish sandwiches Particularly if you’re spending time in the Bosphorus, a fish sandwich (or balik ekmek) is a must-try local dish. Made with white fish, onion and salad, it’s a simple classic that hits the spot.
  • Manti Though the ingredients that fill these handmade dumplings vary, the best kind are filled with lamb and served with yogurt and butter. It’s hard to move after polishing off a plate, but so worth it.
  • Turkish coffee Turkish coffee is known around the world for its unique brewing method. It's made with arabica beans which are ground into a fine powder and boiled with cardamom and water in a cevze – a pretty copper or brass pot with a long, thin handle.

Learn more about what to drink in Turkey

Turkey travel highlights

One of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, the ruins of Ephesus are essential viewing for amateur historians.

Turkey Highlights, 8 days

Turkey: Bike & Kayak, 12 days

Boasting incredible Roman ruins and a harbor that proves the term ‘Turquoise Coast’ is well-deserved, Antalya is a sophisticated slice of Mediterranean Turkey.  

Turkey Encompassed, 15 days

Essential Turkey, 11 days

3. Istanbul

People are passionate about Istanbul. Allow at least a few days to explore the sights of this continent-straddling city and discover the indefinable quality that inspires such devotion.

Taste of Istanbul, 3 days

Turkey Real Food Adventure, 11 days

 The main base for exploring stunning Cappadocia, Goreme has many buildings that are carved into the same soft volcanic rock that forms the fairy chimneys and spires the region is famous for.

Turkey Uncovered, 14 days

5. Mt Nemrut

Hike to the summit of this remote mountain and you’ll be rewarded with the ruins of an ancient mausoleum, including gigantic stone heads which are all that remain of epic statues of various gods.

Turkey Backroads, 5 days

Turkey Explored, 18 days

Cruise to the sunken city of Kekova, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal blue waters, taste fabulous local cuisine, float over an ancient sunken city or explore Lycian tombs.

Geography and environment

A fairly mountainous country sharing borders with Bulgaria , Greece , Syria, Iraq, Iran , Armenia , Georgia and Azerbaijan , Turkey also has wide stretches of coastline along the Aegean, Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Blessed with large tracts of fertile soil, Turkey is one of the world's biggest agricultural producers, and visitors can expect to see many farms, orchards, plantations and areas of permanent crops occupying certain regions.

Due to its location, Turkey is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from the rocky, forested coastline of the Black Sea region to the fertile plateaus of the Marmara, the white sand beaches of the Aegean and the limestone formations of the Mediterranean. Adding further environmental diversity, the Anatolia highlands (considered the heartland of the country) feature rugged snow-capped peaks and crystalline lakes.

With one of the biggest bazaars in the world, flea markets aplenty and a cutting-edge contemporary fashion scene in the bigger cities, shopping in Turkey is more diverse than you might think.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country, particularly perishable items. Australia and New Zealand, for example, generally have strict quarantine laws.

A note on ceramics

While beautifully decorated tiles and ceramics overflow from Turkey’s market stalls, you should keep in mind that their point of origin can be hard to decipher. In other words, watch out for fakes. The real deal tends to be pretty expensive (but worth it, if you ask us). Of course, if you’re just after something pretty to remind you of your travels, don’t feel too bad about reaching for the inexpensive option.

Things to buy in Turkey

  • Handwoven carpets Turkish carpets are a worldwide phenomenon and represent centuries of artistic tradition woven into a beautiful work of art. Go in with an idea of how much you’re willing to pay and don’t be afraid to bargain a little. Just keep in mind that quality craftsmanship deserves to be rewarded with a fair price. A lot of vendors and stores will give you the carpet in a bag suitable to transport as luggage, or you might consider shipping it back home.
  • Nazar boncuk (evil eye talisman) Want to bring home a little piece of Turkey and ward off evil spirits and intentions at the same time? An evil eye talisman is a perfect thing. You’ll see these little blue ‘eyes’ in every shop and the majority of Turks carry one with them wherever they go.
  • Jewelry Turkey's artisan-made gold and silver earrings, rings and bracelets are good buys. Bazaars, boutiques, museum gift shops and silversmiths offer a wide range of designs from modern to Ottoman-inspired.
  • Brass and copper You can find an assortment of brass and copper decorative objects for the home in the bazaars of Turkey. Serving platters, pitchers, trays, pots and urns will add some souvenir flair to your kitchen.

Festivals and events

If you want an adventure with a point of difference, consider planning your travels to coincide with these popular events.

Whether or not you want to travel during Ramazan (Ramadan) will depend on what kind of adventure you’re after. If you love immersing yourself in local culture and religious practices (and don’t mind a little inconvenience) you might just find traveling during this holy month a fascinating and enriching experience. While the days are dedicated to fasting and contemplation, the evenings are full of colorful celebration and, of course, feasting! Plus, there are fewer tourists around to compete with.

Anniversary of the Anzac campaign

Thousands of people head to Gallipoli every year to pay their respects to fallen Australian , New Zealand and Turkish soldiers who died during the bloody Gallipoli campaign of WWI. The moving dawn ceremony is an iconic event that grows in popularity each year, so if you're hoping to head to Gallipoli in April for Anzac Day, plan ahead.

Efes Pilsen One Love Festival

This annual summer music festival held in Istanbul presents two days of rock, pop, folk and electronic entertainment for masses of locals and visitors keen on soaking up some tunes and summer love.

Kirkpinar Oil Wrestling Championships

Want to see thousands of oiled-up men wrestle and grapple with each other? Then this is the festival for you! This wrestling championship is held over several days, usually in late June, when Turkey's national sport is celebrated with gusto and fanfare. Apart from the one-on-one wrestling bouts, there’s Romani bands, traditional food and belly dancers providing the perfect sideshow attractions.

Cappadox Festival

Set in the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, this eco-friendly music festival features artists and musicians performing on solar-powered stages and inside the ancient caves that the region is famous for. Held around June, the festival was originally an annual event but has moved to a biennial timetable.

Learn more about festivals in Turkey

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Turkey adventure, check out these books:

  • Turkey: A Short History – Norman Stone
  • The Bastard of Istanbul – Elif Shafak
  • Last Train to Istanbul – Ayse Kulin
  • Poems of Nazim Hikmet – Nazim Hikmet
  • Istanbul: Memories and the City – Orhan Pamuk
  • Portrait of a Turkish Family – Irfan Orga
  • A Fez of the Heart – Jeremy Seal
  • Turkish Coast Through Writers' Eyes – Rupert Scott (ed.)

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Turkey but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to the crossroads of Europe and Asia and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

  • Greece tours
  • Cyprus tours
  • Bulgaria tours

Turkey travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Turkey?

You may need a visa to enter Turkey depending on where you’re from. Foreign nationals from several countries will need an e-visa that allows stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, including:

  • South Africa

Travelers from many countries – including  New Zealand , the  United Kingdom , Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,  Japan , Norway, Sweden and  Switzerland  – don’t require a visa for stays of less than three months if the trip is for tourism or business purposes.

When is the best time to visit Turkey?

The best time to visit Turkey is typically during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October when the temperatures are still warm and there aren't yet large summer crowds.

For the best beach weather, the hottest time of year is June and July, however, this collides with the summer holidays, so it will be busy.

The cooler months are quieter and accommodation (when still open) is cheaper.

If you are planning to travel to the eastern reaches of Turkey during Ramadan/Ramazan, it’s important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours. However, the carnival atmosphere that erupts when the fast breaks in the evening is magical, so travelers who enjoy immersive cultural experiences might prefer to travel during the holy month.

What's the weather like in Turkey?

The weather in Turkey depends on the time of year and region you're visiting. The southern coastlines typically experience a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and wet winters, while the interior regions can experience drastic temperature changes and even snow.

If you're planning on swimming, the water is generally still warm up until the start of November and October is great as it's much quieter.

Weather in Istanbul is fairly temperate, sheltered from severe weather by its proximity to the coastlines.

Is tipping customary in Turkey?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Turkey, a cash tip that equals a small percentage of the total bill is very much appreciated in restaurants.

It's also customary to tip staff while visiting hammams (bathhouses). It's not necessary to tip taxi drivers, although rounding up the fare for convenience is commonplace.

What is the internet access like in Turkey?

Free wi-fi is common in Turkey’s cities, but the quality of connection varies. Alternatively, Turkey has an abundance of internet cafes in large cities, and most of them serve coffee and snacks so you can refuel while you catch up with folks back home.

Internet access can be spotty or non-existent in rural areas, so it’s best to treat travel in these regions as an opportunity for a digital detox. 

Can I use my mobile phone while in Turkey?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Turkey, especially in large cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile.

What are the toilets like in Turkey?

Turkey has a mix of Western-style and squat-style toilets, sometimes with a jug of water for manual flushing. The latter becomes more common the more remote the region, however, there's typically a Western-style toilet in every bathroom.

Toilets are known as WCs (short for water closets) in Turkey.

Many public toilets require a small payment of roughly 2-10 TRY for use, so make sure you carry change when out and about.

You may find the standards of hygiene and sanitation in Turkey are laxer than you are used to so it's a good idea to carry toilet paper and hand sanitiser if you are concerned.

What will it cost for a…?

Turkey's unit of currency is the lira (TRY). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

  • Half-litre of beer = 50-60 TRY
  • Simit (local bread roll) = 10 TRY
  • Casual restaurant meal = 300 TRY
  • Mid-range restaurant meal = 600 TRY
  • Basic hammam visit = 1000 + TRY/50 EURO

Can I drink the water in Turkey?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Turkey. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water or carry water purification tablets with you. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist shopping areas and large hotels in Turkey, but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors, in remote towns and rural areas. We recommend carrying cash for purchases to avoid being caught out.

What is ATM access like in Turkey?

ATMs are available in large cities in Turkey but are not common in rural areas and smaller towns. Be prepared for this by having enough cash before traveling out of the city.

What to wear in Turkey

Turkey can get quite warm in summer and during the shoulder seasons but it’s important to remember that clothing that covers you from elbows to below the knee is appropriate in (or even around) mosques. Think linen pants, lightweight tops/shirts and long dresses. Female travelers should also carry a scarf on them to wear when visiting mosques.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Turkey?

  • 1 January New Year's Day
  • 23 April National Sovereignty and Children's Day
  • 1 May Labour Day
  • 19 May Youth & Sports Day
  • 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day
  • 30 August Victory Day
  • 29 October Republic Day

View a full list of public holidays in Turkey .

The 30-day Islamic holy month of Ramazan (Ramadan) is widely observed in Turkey. The exact dates change every year, so it’s important you check when Ramazan will take place in the year you plan to travel. As a general rule, there are five consecutive public holidays observed at the beginning of the month and a few observed at the end.

The level of celebration varies considerably depending on what part of Turkey you are in. The east has a larger Muslim population and therefore a more devoutly observed Ramazan, whereas the southern and western coasts will be less affected.

Kurban (Eid al-Adha)

A four to five-day public holiday is observed during Kurban (Eid al-Adha), though like Ramazan the exact dates of this observation change every year.

Is Turkey safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

LGBTQIA+ travelers should be aware that while Turkey is nominally secular it can also be very conservative. As such, negative attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals are common, particularly outside major cities.  

While same-sex relationships and non-normative gender presentation are not against the law in Turkey, LGBTQIA+ people have no legally enshrined protection from discrimination. Legal prohibitions against ‘ offenses against public morality’ can and have been used to persecute LGBTQIA+ folks, though the likelihood of this being used to target travelers is low.

Transgender travelers, in particular, should be aware that trans people in Turkey report being the targets of violence and overt discrimination. 

Istanbul and Ankara have established queer scenes, both of which are primarily oriented around cisgender gay men and to a lesser extent cisgender gay women. However, same-sex couples are still unlikely to engage in public displays of affection in these cities.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Turkey accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

While infrastructure is improving, much of Turkey remains difficult to navigate for wheelchair users and people with mobility concerns. Many cities in Turkey have been occupied for thousands of years and their design reflects that, with little regard given to making streets and attractions accessible. Travelers with impaired mobility will find that while tourist locales in Istanbul, such as hotels and mosques, are fitted with ramps and connected by an accessible tram, getting around the rest of the city can be challenging. Rural regions like Cappadocia will be difficult for travelers with mobility impairment to navigate independently. 

Squat toilets remain the norm in many parts of Turkey, which can pose problems for travelers with certain disabilities.

Traffic in Turkey can be chaotic, and even when traffic lights and pedestrian crossings exist drivers do not always obey them. Taxis are, for the most part, not wheelchair-friendly.         

Travelers who use battery-operated hearing aids should consider bringing a stash of extra batteries, as they can be difficult to locate in Turkey.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Does my trip to Turkey support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Turkey directly support our foundation partner, C ontemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) . 

Contemporary Life Support Association (CYDD) provide scholarships and educational programs for economically disadvantaged youth in Turkey. Donations from our trips fund a program where young scholarship awardees undertake outreach workshops with marginalized children in regional villages. Workshops include information sessions on gender equality, health, law, culture, and other human rights topics.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Turkey you may find yourself staying in a:

These locally run guesthouses are the perfect blend of a comfortable homestay and a hotel, combining well-situated and authentic Turkish accommodation with modern conveniences.

Immerse yourself in local village life and enjoy Turkish hospitality (and food) during a homestay. Share a home-cooked meal with your hosts and embrace the slow life.

How will I be traveling around Turkey?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending what trip you're on while in Turkey, you may find yourself traveling by:

Explore the rugged beauty of Turkey’s coast on a traditional Turkish sailing gulet. Spend days exploring submerged ruins and nights cozied up on deck under the stars.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

7 Day Turkey Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Turkey tour with TourRadar. Choose from 195 trips with 588 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

Filters applied

195 turkey 7 day tour packages with 588 reviews.

Exploring the Spiritual Heritage: A 7-Day Seven Churches of Asia Minor Tour Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Christmas & New Year

Exploring the Spiritual Heritage: A 7-Day Seven Churches of Asia Minor Tour

Aegean Prelude Tour Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Aegean Prelude Tour

Tour and Itinerary were comprehensive and good. Driver was very good at his job, but would have preferred if the Guide and Driver didn't have loud, animated conversations during our drives, as that was when we were all resting. There were a few extras along the way, that we were not informed about as an option from the guide, until I asked. Also, there was a Museum with relics, etc. in Efesus, that we were not told about either. I understand one has to pay extra for it, but we should have been told about the option to visit it. When I asked what the building was, we were already quite far from it, and the little free time at the end, would not have allowed for enough time to go all the way back. Would have worked well if the guide had given us a little free time in between as the distances are large, but I guess he didn't want to wait for us, and instead wanted to finish off his tour and go back to the van. Logistically, this was not to the advantage of the clients. Also, accommodations in Kudasadi were below average. The hotel is really run down and we were expecting to be put up at the Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel (or similar) as per the itinerary, which was much nicer. Lastly, the guide was extremely professional, pleasant, knowledgeable and factual, but lacked a personality and the ability to make the information he was giving us, less dry and more interesting. If these few things could be improved on, I think it would be a very good tour.

7 Days Gallipoli & Turkey Classics Tour Tour

7 Days Gallipoli & Turkey Classics Tour

Very well organized, excellent guides, Good hotels, Friendly staff
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7 Days Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Tour Tour

7 Days Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Tour

I just came from my vacations from Turkey and everything was booked with this agency. Very impressed by their profesionalism and good organization. The guides knew their jobs very clear to explain the history of Istanbul and Cappadocia. Besides very nice people,warm and took care of everybody with great enthusiasm. I recomend to who's interesting to travel to Turkey with complete confidence.

Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia | 7 Days with 1 flight Tour

  • Photography

Istanbul - Ankara - Cappadocia | 7 Days with 1 flight

Highly recommend this tour !! The hotels were clean and their location were good. Our driver was a very careful and sound driver. Our tour guide Nadir taught us a lot, I was very impressed by his knowledge about Turkey and its history. Also communication with eskapas was superb, they were responding to our messages very fast. Overall excelent tour had the time of our lifes.

Turkey in a Nutshell 7 Day Tour Tour

Turkey in a Nutshell 7 Day Tour

It was a marvellous adventure and worth every single minute. Also our guide was awesome.

7 Days - Best Seller of Turkey Package Tour

  • Sightseeing

7 Days - Best Seller of Turkey Package

Our tours with Iglesias, especially with guides Utku and Josh were excellent! They were knowledgeable, friendly and organized. My only gripe was on my last day of the tour with Mel, who guided us around Pammukale and Hierapolis. I dont want to sound too harsh on someone so young, but it felt a bit like being guided by a sullen high school student. She needs a microphone, because she mumbles and lot of us sitting at the back couldnt make out what she was saying. On walking tours, she only spoke to those that walked next to her, so if you stopped to read the written plaques on sites you just missed out. She seemed unexperienced and overwhelmed- she often didn't have an answer when others in group would ask what was next, and would often respond 'We can do whatever you guys want to do'. Like ??? Aren't we on a guided tour..? She would repeatedly crack jokes about how she was going to take a break and come back in 2 hours, which I thought seemed bit immature. Some of us in the group have vested interests in history and her unprofessional demeanor soured our experience on the last day.

Absolutely Turkey Tour

Absolutely Turkey

Exelente Thank you very much Great experience

7 Days Best of  Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Package Tour

7 Days Best of Istanbul and Best of Cappadocia Package

Would highly recommend City of Sultans. The itinerary was excellent and I was kept up to date at all times about what was happening, meeting and pick up times etc. well done to Ozgur and the team!

Turkey Classics Tour Tour

Turkey Classics Tour

The tour was perfect about everything I can say it was perfect the hotels and especially the tour Mr Eget he did a great job and he was having tremendous amounts of information that was beneficial one thing I can recommend or prefer is to take the flight from cappadocia instead of the bus going back to Istanbul

Silk Road Explorer Tour Tour

Silk Road Explorer Tour

Magnificent Turkey-7 Days Tour

Magnificent Turkey-7 Days

I did the 7 day Magnificent Turkey Tour in Nov 2021, and had a wonderful time! The thing that really impressed me, and made a difference for me with this trip, was how flexible and customizable the itinerary is. The tour can start on any day because its not one group tour, but a bunch of independent day tours with transfers and accommodations between tours arranged and included. At the end of this tour, I was planning on spending two extra days in Istanbul, which the company arranged for me at minimal extra cost (there would have been no economic benefit to me in booking this separately on my own, especially since it still included the airport transfer on the last day). My first full day tour, however, was Hagia Sophia/ Grand Bazaar / Topkapı Palace / Hippodromes/ Blue Mosque in Istanbul. These places were very amazing and important to visit, but as a solo female traveler, I quickly discovered I did not like how hectic and chaotic Istanbul was--after a couple days, i decided I did not want to return to Istanbul, so Tour Altınkum help me arrange to stay in Izmir on my last two days instead (so much better for me!) at no extra cost, and still make it to my departure flight from Istanbul on time. All of the other tour sites and cities were amazing for me, however, and as described in the itinerary. I loved Cappadocia, Kusadası, Pamukkale, and Efes very much! The hotels (Recital in Istanbul, Heaven Cave in Cappadocia, and Efe Boutique in Kusadası) were all excellent, and all of the transfers and flights were so well coordinated with no flaws--the logistical organization blew my mind; I definitely would not have been able to coordinate so many tours and trips in the same amount of time on my own. I traveled solo, and the single supplement was not too much, but for a couple or a group, i cant believe what a deal this trip would be! I think travelling as a couple or group would be even better, because the one downside i experienced as a solo traveler (other than overwhelm by İstanbul!) was a bit of loneliness and boredom in the three evenings where i had flights after the tours--travelling with a friend or family will give you someone to laugh with and discuss your adventure with while you are in transit! The evenings in which i had free time were all fine, though, as there is much to explore--shops, restaurants, etc--around the hotels in the various cities. I would definitely recommend Tour Altinkum to anyone planning a visit to Turkey, especially if it is their first time or if they want to see as much as possible in a short amount of time! I would also recommend taking advantage of the ability to customize your tour, too. The company is so flexible, and I think maybe if I went again, I would like to spend extra days just to relax and rest in Cappadocia and Kusadası! Thank you, Tour Altınkum, i had a wonderful time in Turkey!

7 DAY TRIANGLE TOUR Tour

7 DAY TRIANGLE TOUR

Aegean Explorer - 7 Days Tour

Aegean Explorer - 7 Days

It was a most enjoyable tour. I was able to get an insight into Turkey's history, culture and lifestyle in a safe way. Burhan was our friendly guide who was organised, knowledgeable and had the local knowledge, ensuring that we ate at all the best restaurants with the freshest foods (and not get food poisoning), and that we were at the front of the queue for all the tourist spots. Hanka was our friendly trusted driver who made sure our luggage was safely stored and got us to our destinations quickly and safely. The hotels on this tour were really impressive and each had their own character. They were all spacious and had excellent facilities. So after a day of sightseeing, it was nice to either swim at a beach (one of the hotels was literally next to the sea), or soak (or swim) in a hot thermal spa pool. We enjoyed free dinners at all these hotels so thanks for that. I was enjoying the tour so much that when there was an opportunity to extend it, to visit the sights of Cappadocia, I didn't hesitate to grab it with both hands. So, my recommendation here is to do the 10 day tour, not the 7 day tour here from this tour operator. I had to cancel my hotel stay in Istanbul at my expense, but it was worth it, because you just have to check out Cappadocia priceless strange landscapes. I did everything I set out to do, namely see most of the wonderous important historical sights of Turkey, haggle for merchandise, like carpet, leather and jewellery, and even dance with a belly dancer :). Thanks guys for a most enjoyable tour. I do not hesitate to recommend you.

Turkey Experience Tour Tour

Turkey Experience Tour

Fantastic experience! Highly recommend! The tour was amazing visiting beautiful places with absolutely perfect organization by Canan from Fez Travel. The choices of hotels was wonderful with a very good value for money. The excursions were planned very well and the tour guides Burak in Istanbul, Dilek in Cappadocia, and Ulas in Kusadasi were just absolutely fantastic. We are very grateful and happy we choose this tour with this company. Could not have been better! Thank you very much for everything!

What people love about 7 Day Turkey Tours

Tour and Itinerary were comprehensive and good. Driver was very good at his job, but would have preferred if the Guide and Driver didn't have loud, animated conversations during our drives, as that was when we were all resting. There were a few extras along the way, that we were not informed about as an option from the guide, until I asked. Also, there was a Museum with relics, etc. in Efesus, that we were not told about either. I understand one has to pay extra for it, but we should have been told about the option to visit it. When I asked what the building was, we were already quite far from it, and the little free time at the end, would not have allowed for enough time to go all the way back. Would have worked well if the guide had given us a little free time in between as the distances are large, but I guess he didn't want to wait for us, and instead wanted to finish off his tour and go back to the van. Logistically, this was not to the advantage of the clients. Also, accommodations in Kudasadi were below average. The hotel is really run down and we were expecting to be put up at the Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel (or similar) as per the itinerary, which was much nicer. Lastly, the guide was extremely professional, pleasant, knowledgeable and factual, but lacked a personality and the ability to make the information he was giving us, less dry and more interesting. If these few things could be improved on, I think it would be a very good tour.
I just came from my vacations from Turkey and everything was booked with this agency. Very impressed by their profesionalism and good organization. The guides knew their jobs very clear to explain the history of Istanbul and Cappadocia. Besides very nice people,warm and took care of everybody with great enthusiasm. I recomend to who's interesting to travel to Turkey with complete confidence.

Regions in Turkey

  • Western Turkey (89)
  • Anatolia (43)
  • Aegean (40)
  • Cappadocia (34)
  • Thrace (26)
  • Eastern Turkey (12)
  • Black Sea (9)
  • Turquoise Coast (5)

Other Regions in Turkey

  • Western Turkey 7 day Tours (89)
  • Western Turkey 10 day Tours (68)
  • Anatolia 7 day Tours (43)
  • Aegean 10 day Tours (40)
  • Aegean 7 day Tours (40)
  • Cappadocia 7 day Tours (34)
  • Marmara 7 day Tours (31)
  • Thrace 7 day Tours (26)
  • Western Turkey 3 day Tours (23)
  • Anatolia 10 day Tours (21)
  • Anatolia 3 day Tours (21)
  • Cappadocia 3 day Tours (18)
  • Turquoise Coast 10 day Tours (14)
  • Eastern Turkey 7 day Tours (12)
  • Western Turkey 2 week Tours (10)
  • Marmara 3 day Tours (9)
  • Turkey Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Travel Planning Guide

10 Days in Turkey: The Best Tours

Fethiye, Turkey

Looking for the perfect 10-day getaway to Turkey with a fantastic tour? We've carefully analyzed all of the possible tour options to Turkey based on price, comfort, service, guest ratings, cuisine, and activities in order to find the absolute best 10-day tour options available. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed expedition, these guided tours offer the perfect length to indulge in the best of both worlds. From captivating excursions to tantalizing cuisine, get ready to experience the ultimate 10-day escape to Turkey that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of wanderlust. So, check out our curated list of tours below to get started!

  • Turkey Unplugged - 10 Days 10 Days, $2275.00
  • Classical Turkey 10 Days, $1249.00
  • Magic Carpet Tour 10 Days, $1965.00

Which 10-day tour options are available in Turkey?

Turkey

Here are the important factors:

  • 38 trip options analyzed
  • $175 average price per day (USD)
  • 4.71 of 5 average rating
  • 26 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of tours lasting 10 days? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.71 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 26 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. As for physical activity options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as easy and moderate, with the most being easy. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 38 tours lasting 10 days, you can rest assured that Turkey has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey

Turkey unplugged - 10 days.

  • On Sale: 35% Off See Prices
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 10 days.

This exceptional trip offering by On The Go Tours has received a 4.6 out of 5 rating. On this 10-day trip you can unwind while also making new memories. Along the way, this journey encompasses 9 destinations, including Cappadocia, Gallipoli, Troy, and Pergamum. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Istanbul. With a group size of 24 people, it's suitable for travelers from 18 to 80 years old. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $148 per day. Act quickly to seize the current limited-time sale and reserve your spot now.

  • Coach / Bus
  • Sightseeing
  • In-depth Cultural

Classical Turkey

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4.7 out of 5 rating. This itinerary covers 8 captivating destinations, with stops in Konya, Pamukkale, Izmir, and Pergamum, among others. Istanbul will be both the start and end of your journey. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. Spanning across 10 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 35 participants, and it's great for travelers from 8 to 90 years old. Brought to you by the renowned Indus Travels , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $125 per day - an unbeatable value.

Magic Carpet Tour

  • On Sale: 15% Off See Prices

This 10-day journey is ideal for travelers from 12 and up. And priced at only $167 per day, it's a great value, too. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 11 destinations, featuring Konya, Cappadocia, Goreme, and Gallipoli. Your adventure starts and ends in Istanbul. It's offered by Fez Travel , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

Amazing Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

  • On Sale: 45% Off See Prices

Priced at just $157 per day, this terrific 10-day journey is ideal for travelers from 18 to 59 years old. Uncover the beauty of 10 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamum, and Kusadasi. Istanbul will be the beginning and end of your trip. Organized by the reputable Travel Talk , this is one of the best tours on this list. It's currently on a special discounted offer.

Timeless Cities in Modern Transportation: Turkey Unleashed 10 Day Tour

  • On Sale: 30% Off See Prices
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. With a duration of 10 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 35 people, and is good for travelers from 8 and up. Traverse through 10 enchanting destinations, with Troy, Pergamum, Kusadasi, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum among the must-see stops along the route. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Istanbul. This fantastic option, organized by Dorak Tours , presents an unbeatable value at just $84 per day. Act quickly to seize the current limited-time sale and reserve your spot now.

The Seven Churches Trail – Biblical Tour Turkey 10 Day Tour

Spanning over 10 days, this trip has a maximum size of 35 individuals. Welcoming travelers from 8 and up, it is organized by Dorak Tours , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip visits 9 destinations, including Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, and Bursa along the way. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Istanbul. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Available at an unbeatable price of only $88 per day, this option also has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from previous guests. Hurry and secure your spot while this incredible sale lasts!

Sacred Pathways: Tracing the Legacy of the Seven Churches 10 Day Tour

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 10 days, this jouney will have 35 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers from 8 and up. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Expertly organized by Dorak Tours , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $89 per day. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

Turkish Delight with Cappadocia

This memorable voyage is offered by Destination Services Turkey which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $142 per day. Explore 9 incredible locations on this trip, including Konya, Izmir, Kusadasi, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Istanbul marks the starting point, while Cappadocia stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. The maximum group size is 40 people, welcoming travelers from 10 and up.

10 Days Turkey Escapades Tour

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 4.9 out of 5 stars by previous guests. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. With a duration of 10 days, this voyage offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 8 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers from 8 to 89 years old. Discover a journey that spans 10 destinations, with notable stops in Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Pamukkale, Konya, and Gallipoli. Istanbul will be both the start and end of your journey. Brought to you by Turkey Escapades , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $179 per day.

Easymade Turkey Tour

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 10 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 20 participants at most. This trip takes you on an adventure to 8 destinations, including Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Gallipoli, and Troy. Your adventure starts and ends in Istanbul. Fez Travel , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers from 8 and up. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $208 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Turkey , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Turkey , The Best Historical Tours in Turkey , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey , The Best 3-Day Tours in Turkey , The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Turkey , The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Turkey , The Best Adventure Tours to Turkey , The Best Eco Tours in Turkey , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Turkey , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Turkey , The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Turkey , The Best Walking Tours in Turkey , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Turkey , The Best Luxury Tours to Turkey , The Best Budget Tours to Turkey , The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Istanbul , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Fethiye , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Antalya , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bodrum , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Kas , The Best 10-Day Tours from Istanbul , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Istanbul for more package tour options.

How much do 10-day tours to Turkey cost?

After analyzing 38 tours lasting 10 days in Turkey, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $175 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for tours lasting 10 days with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Turkey .

And for more information on Turkey, see Turkey Travel Costs and Turkey Hotel Costs .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Budget Your Trip

day tours in turkey

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

  • Privacy / Terms of Use
  • Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

The Turkey Traveler

An Epic 7-Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus Option For 10 Days)

Photo of author

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

This website uses affiliate links. For more information, click here .

If you’re planning for a week in Turkey, you’re in for a fantastic trip. In this 7 day Turkey itinerary , you’ll get to see some of the most fascinating historical landmarks, and unique and unspoiled natural landscapes and get familiar with the warm-hearted Turkish culture.

If you want to see all the highlights of the country, this itinerary will show you the best of the country. We’ll also show you how to travel from A to B and which order to see things in, to avoid spending too much time traveling and spend more time exploring.

Are 7 Days Enough for Turkey?

day tours in turkey

But first, the question we always get asked is; are 7 days in Turkey enough? The truth is, Turkey is a big country, 783,562 km² to be exact, and to really see all of it, you’re going to need more than 7 days.

Even to see the highlights, we recommend at least 10-14 days so you don’t have to rush around and exhaust yourself seeing everything.

However, if you only have 7 days in Turkey we totally understand that not everyone is blessed with time. You can see the highlights of Turkey in seven days, but you do need to sacrifice some landmarks unless you want to burn out with all the traveling.

This is why we have prepared two 7 day itinerary options. This is so you can decide which attractions to sacrifice and which side of Turkey you want to see most.

The Best Turkey Itinerary for 7 Days

Colonaded Street Ancient City of Perge

Fitting everything into 7 days is no easy task. So to help you pick the right itinerary for you, we’ve given you two options.

The first option is a history and culture tour of Turkey, taking you to some of the oldest and most beautiful historical landmarks in the country.

The second option covers some history, natural landscapes, and the iconic Turkish Riviera for some beach days.

Whatever brings you to Turkey, you’ll find our 7 day Turkey itineraries will cover it all. Let’s take a look…

Suggested Itinerary 1: Istanbul > Cappadocia > Izmir

Below you’ll find our first option for this 7 day Turkey itinerary. This is what we consider to be the best itinerary for seven days and covers the most iconic Turkey landmarks .

Galata-Tower-Sunset

Day 1: Istanbul

Our itinerary begins in the enchanting city of Istanbul. This once capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empire, named then as Constantinople, is brimming with history and culture. It’s also the biggest city in the world to span two continents; Europe and Asia.

On the first day of your visit to Istanbul, you’re going to want to explore the neighborhood of Sultanahmet . This is where you’ll find the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern.

This day will do a lot of walking but it’s all within the same area, so you won’t need to travel far today, but you’re going to see exactly why Istanbul is a city worth visiting .

Stop 1: The Blue Mosque

The-Blue-Mosque-Turkey-Landmark

The Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the most beautiful work of architecture in Istanbul, so it makes sense to visit this attraction first. It was built between 1609 and 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I. It became famous for its hand-painted Iznik blue tiles that you can see inside.

The mosque features more than 200 stained glass windows, as well as a stunning carved marble mihrab that’s worth checking out. It’s also the resting place of Sultan Ahmed I.

The Blue Mosque has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and is one of Turkey’s most famous sites.

Stop 2: Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia Istanbul Landmark

The Hagia Sophia is just across Sultanahmet Park from the Blue Mosque and is another one of the most important mosques in Turkey. It was built in 537 by the Roman Emperor Justinian. It was originally used as a cathedral for Constantinople, where it remained the largest Christian church in the Eastern Roman Empire for over 1,000 years.

After Constantinople was seized by the Ottoman Empire, it was converted into a mosque. It was a museum for a short time between 1935-2000 but was converted back into a mosque. It has some of the most stunning architecture, mosaics, and artistic coverings of all the mosques in the city.

📚 Read more: The Most Beautiful Churches in Istanbul

Stop 3: Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace Istanbul Turkey

Around the corner from the Hagia Sophia is the Topkapi Palace . The palace was the former home of the Ottoman sultans in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Today, it is a large museum, showcasing artifacts from the Ottoman era. Not all rooms are open to the public, but the most beautiful ones are. The Ottoman Imperial Harem and the treasury are the main reasons to visit this palace in Istanbul .

The Topkapi Palace was also declared a UNESCO site in 1985 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Stop 4: Basilica Cistern

Basilica-Cistern-Istanbul-Turkey

During the Byzantine Empire, the Byzantines built several cisterns under the city as a water storage system for the city’s palaces. The largest and best-preserved cistern in the city is the Basilica Cistern .

The cistern is approximately 138 meters long by 64.6 meters wide, covering a total area of 9,800 square meters — roughly the size of two football fields. It has the capacity to store 100,000 tons of water. It is one of the greatest engineering achievements of the East Roman Empire.

It is just 150 meters away from the Hagia Sophia, so it makes sense to see this historical landmark on the same day.

Stop 5: Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar Istanbul

Another one of the major landmarks in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar. It is the largest and oldest covered market in the world, with 61 streets and over 4,000 shops. It began operating in 1455 after the Ottomans captured Constantinople.

The vibrant Grand Bazaar is the best place to pick up Turkish souvenirs , from Turkish delights to Turkish lamps, rugs, towels, and clothes.

Around the corner from Grand Bazaar is the Spice Bazaar. This is another souk market where you can shop for various teas and spices. The spices are said to help with certain medical conditions, from diabetes control to weight loss, and mood enhancers.

Stop 6: Turkish Hamam

After all this walking around, you’re going to want to relax a little. We recommend finishing off the day in a Turkish Hamam, which is similar to a Roman Bath. It’s not just a public bathing space, but a spa where you can get massages and beauty treatments.

Located next to the Hagia Sophia is the Hurrem Sultan Hamam, which was built in the 16th century. It’s a little pricey, but if you’re going to enjoy a Turkish bath in Istanbul , you might as well go to an authentic one!

Day 2: Istanbul:

On the second day we’re going to cross the Galata Bridge and explore the Kabataş neighborhood. This is still part of Europe and features many iconic attractions that should not be missed.

Stop 1: Galata Bridge

day tours in turkey

We’ll begin at Galata Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that crosses Istanbul’s Golden Horn channel. The bridge is famous because of the fishermen who cast their lines here, attracting hundreds of seagulls.

The bridge has two parts, the top part is where the cars cross the bridge and also where you’ll find the fishermen, and along the bottom part you’ll find many restaurants serving fresh seafood meals. Though as scenic as it sounds, we cannot recommend you to eat at one of the restaurants underneath the bridge – they are pricey and not the best in terms of quality.

Stop 2: Galata Tower

Galata-Tower-Istanbul

Next, we’ll visit the iconic Galata Tower. By now you have probably noticed the tower in the skyline, given that it is the city’s watch tower.

It was built as a part of the Walls of Galata in 1348 by Byzantine Empire. The Galata Tower has had a tumultuous past, having caught fire in 1794 and 1831. It was also badly damaged in a storm in 1875.

The tower was renovated in the 1960s to look like the original but using concrete instead of wood. You can climb to the top of the tower and witness 360-degree panoramic views of the city. The museum and exhibition hall inside the tower is also one of the best museums in Istanbul .

Stop 3: Istiklal Street

Istiklal-Street-Tram

Istiklal Street is the most famous street in Istanbul and is where you’ll find a blend of historic and modern. It was historically known as Grand Avenue of Pera, and is a pedestrian street made famous for its red tram that rides from one end to the other.

There are many high-street brands setting up shops here in the old buildings that were once apartments for the Romans. It’s a great place to pick up some street food or find a traditional Turkish restaurant down one of the side streets. If you’re into nightlife, you’ll find vibrant bars and clubs in this area.

This area also has some of the best rooftop restaurants in Istanbul , offering patrons sweeping views of the area around it, including Sultanahmet and even the Asian side on a good day.

Stop 4: Bosphorus Cruise

day tours in turkey

If your legs are a little tired from all this walking, then a Bosphorus cruise is a great way to enjoy the sunset.

The cruise takes you through Istanbul’s Golden Horn and out into the Bosphorus Strait, the body of water separating the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It goes as far as the Bosphorus Bridge before returning back to the harbor, which is usually in Eminönü.

It gives you a unique perspective of the city from the water, and it’s also the best way to see the palaces in Istanbul . Many of the palaces were built next to the water, and their beautiful decoration and architecture are best seen from the water.

If you want the nicer cruises, we highly recommend that you book your tickets online in advance. You can get some of the lower quality ones at the harbor, but you’ll want to reserve the better ones.

Stop 5: Whirling Dervishes Show

day tours in turkey

If you went for a sunset cruise, then you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a whirling dervishes show in the evening. This is a traditional Turkish dance where dancers look as though they are floating across the floor.

As well as being a dance, it’s an active meditation exercise, which originated from the Sufi tribes in the 13th century. This is one of our favorite things to do in Istanbul at night .

Day 3: Istanbul

No Istanbul visit is complete without exploring the Asian side, which is what you’ll be doing on the third day in Istanbul. We’ll be visiting the largest mosque in Istanbul, the hip and vibrant area of Moda, and tasting delicious Istanbul street food .

Stop 1: Çamlıca Mosque

day tours in turkey

The first stop is Çamlıca Mosque, located at the top of Çamlıca Hill. To get here from the historic center, you must first take the metro to Üsküdar and then change to the metro to Kısıklı. From here, you simply walk up the hill.

The Camlica Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul and measures 72 m (236 ft) tall. The six minarets measure even higher to 107.1 m (351 ft). This stunning mosque is a sprawling complex large enough to house 63,000 worshipers at one time.

There’s also an art gallery, library, and conference hall. It was designed by two female architects, Bahar Mızrak and Hayriye Gül Totu, and was said to have cost $110 million USD to make.

Stop 2: Kadikoy and Moda

After spending time admiring the mosque, head over to the area of Kadikoy. Here you’ll find bustling markets and fishermen on the waterfront. This is the perfect place to sample some street food. We highly recommend the balık ekmek (fish sandwich). There are also plenty of cute cafes and restaurants.

After wandering the neighborhood of Kadikoy, head further south to Moda. This is a residential neighborhood with street art, boutique stores, cool coffee shops, and a relaxing park. If you haven’t tried Turkish ice cream, dondurma, yet, this is the perfect place to do so!

Stop 3: Uskudar

Uskudar is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Istanbul’s Asian side. It is situated adjacent to the Bosphorus, and facing west, naturally offers some of the best sunset views in Istanbul.

There are many things to do in Uskudar; if you have some time, we recommend you to walk around the neighborhood and check out some of the fresh fish markets. If it’s closer to sunset time, make sure you grab a spot by the promenade with a great view of the Maiden’s Tower!

Uskudar-Maiden's-Tower-Most-Beautiful-Places-Istanbul

After exploring Istanbul for the third day, you’re going to need to get to Cappadocia. To do this, you’ll want to take an evening flight to Cappadocia as the bus is 12 hours overnight. Flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia take just over 1 hour and flights run regularly every day. There are two airlines that regularly operate this route:

  • Turkish Airlines
  • Pegasus Airlines

There are two airports in Cappadocia – Kayseri Airport (ASR) and Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV). Both are quite similar in terms of distance to Goreme, the historic center of Cappadocia, so we recommend just booking the cheapest one.

Similarly, there are two airports in Istanbul – Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Both offer flights to Cappadocia but IST is usually easier to get to, but it depends on where you are staying.

When planning your route to the airport, just keep in mind that the traffic in Istanbul can be terrible, so allocate your time accordingly.

When you arrive in Cappadocia, we HIGHLY recommend you to have an airport transfer to your hotel. This is because the taxi drivers at the airports in Cappadocia are known to overcharge tourists. You’ll definitely save money with the airport transfer!

Day 4: Cappadocia

Zemi-Valley-Cappadocia-Hike

Cappadocia is a vast desert landscape in the Anatolia region of Turkey. It’s set at 1,050m above sea level, so the temperature gets cold at night, even in the summer. You’ll want to base yourself in Goreme, one of the best areas to stay in Cappadocia . From Goreme, a lot of the places to visit in Cappadocia will be within walking distance away.

The entire region is famous for its fairy chimneys, which are ancient cave dwellings that people used to live in, as well as its unique rock formations that are unlike anything else in the world. You can stay in a cave hotel in Cappadocia , which is a unique experience in itself.

Renting-a-Car-In-Cappadocia-Featured

Cappadocia is notoriously hard to get around, so most travelers decide to take tours or rent a car in Cappadocia . This is the best way to see a lot of attractions in just a short time. Public transport in Cappadocia is unreliable, and it takes 2 hours on a bus to cover a distance that can take 30 minutes by car.

📖 Read More: Most Stunning Hotels In Cappadocia With Views Of Hot Air Balloons

Stop 1: Hot Air Balloon Flight

Cappadocia-Hot-Air-Balloon-Ride

Without a doubt, Cappadocia is most well known for its hot air balloons that float through the skies during sunrise. Since the hot air balloons fly depart at sunrise, you’ll want to book this in advance so you can try and do this on your first day.

The reason we recommend doing it on the first day is that the flights are weather-dependent, so if the weather isn’t good for flying the trip can be moved to the following day.

You will only have two days in Cappadocia on this itinerary, so you do need to understand hot air balloon flights are really a stroke of luck.

Assuming you were able to have your hot air balloon flight in the morning, you’ll be back at your hotel by 9 am and ready to have breakfast. After breakfast, you can start exploring some of the best Cappadocia’s attractions .

Stop 2: Red and Rose Valley

Red-Valley-Rocks

There are many valleys in Cappadocia worth visiting, but if we had to choose just one (or two) then we would definitely say to visit the Red Valley and Rose Valley . These two valleys are located right next to each other, so it’s easy to visit both.

The valleys are some of the easiest hikes in Cappadocia and take you through stunning landscapes. You’ll pass fairy chimneys, cave churches, ancient cave dwellings, and impressive rock formations.

If you have more time, you can also visit Love Valley or Pigeon Valley , which are located just outside Goreme’s town center.

Stop 3: One of the Underground Cities

Kaymakli Underground City

There are several underground cities in Cappadocia, but the main ones are the Kaymakli Underground City and the Derinkuyu Underground City. These underground cities were built in the 7th and 8th centuries as a way for the local Christians to hide from the Arab invaders.

The Derinkuyu Underground City is the most popular one as it’s the largest underground city open to the public. It is eight levels deep and once housed 20,000 people. Only four levels are open to the public.

Kaymakli is the oldest underground city and also allows visitors to explore four levels, but it is much smaller than Derinkuyu.

The two cities are only a 15-minute drive from one another so it’s possible to see both, but they offer much of the same experience so we recommend you pick one. If you’re not sure which one to visit, we have a guide on which is better; Derinkuyu or Kaymalki.

Stop 4: Sunset Viewpoint

REd-Valley-Sunset-Viewpoint-Cappadocia

By now you’re probably feeling a little tired from all the exploring, so we recommend you take a trip to one of Cappadocia’s famous sunset viewpoints . There is one in the center of Goreme town called Lover’s Hill , if you don’t feel like driving far. These sunset viewpoints give you the best views of the valleys, fairy chimneys and rock formations of the region.

Alternative itinerary:

If you don’t want to rent a car and drive, you could do one of the red tours or green tours of Cappadocia.

These are popular tours that allow you to see as much of the region as possible, from the underground cities to the vast valleys in Cappadocia. Both tours have different attractions, so it’s best to look up which one is best for you.

Luckily, we have a helpful guide on this; red tour vs green tour .

There’s also the blue tour , which is a small group tour that also visits some of the best sights in Cappadocia, but the itinerary for the blue tour differs depending on the company you book with.

Day 5: Cappadocia

On the second day in Cappadocia, you’re going to need to go slow as you’ll have a flight to catch later in the day.

We suggest you explore the Goreme Open Air Museum in the morning, followed by one of the valleys after lunch.

Pigeon Valley or Love Valley is a good choice because they are close to Goreme. But if you have the extra time, we recommend heading to Ihlara Valley , a stunning canyon that stretches for 15 kilometers and reaches depths of up to 150 meters.

We don’t recommend hiking the entirety of it because it’ll take too long, but check out some of the landscape, cave churches, and especially the iconic Selime Monastery .

Hiking-Love-Valley-Cappadocia

If you don’t have a long time to spend, then you can see Devrent Valley or Monks Valley , which take about 30 minutes to see.

Take an evening flight to Izmir. There are no direct flights from Cappadocia to Izmir. You’ll first need to catch a flight to Istanbul and change. Flights take around 4-5 hours with the change over in Istanbul but remember you need to get to and from the airport.

📖 Note: It is also possible to catch a flight tomorrow morning from Cappadocia to Izmir, because Izmir Airport has a direct train to Selcuk, which is where Ephesus (your next destination) is located.

Day 6: Izmir (Ancient City of Ephesus)

Izmir-to-Ephesus-Tour

One of the biggest reasons to visit Izmir is to visit the ancient ruins of Ephesus. This well-preserved city dates back to the 10th century BC at the time of the Ancient Greeks. The city is huge, spanning an area of 6.6 square kilometers.

Visitors can still see the well-preserved Greco-Roman architecture from the remains of the city which gives you a glimpse of what life would have been like many years ago.

The most notable landmarks in Ephesus Turkey are the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World, as well as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Roman Amphitheater that was once large enough for 24,000 spectators.

You can get to Ephesus directly from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. We recommend getting an early flight to Izmir, storing your luggage in the airport, then going to Ephesus by train. It is the most time-efficient way to see Ephesus, especially since the train departures aren’t too frequent.

📖 Read More: How to Get from Izmir to Ephesus

day tours in turkey

You could easily spend a day exploring Ephesus, but if you have time to spare we recommend visiting the nearby village of Sirence, which is a quaint market village that only has 600 residents.

It’s located about 8 kilometers from Ephesus and features many small houses dating back to the Hellenistic period. It’s also a great place to pick up handmade crafts to take home as souvenirs.

Day 7: Izmir

On your final day in Izmir, you’ll want to explore Izmir before you head back home. We suggest visiting the ancient ruins of Smyrna Agora Ancient City in the morning, followed by one of the green parks in the city.

The Kültürpark İzmir Park is a nice and relaxing area to wander around before getting a flight. Make sure to check out the stunning Izmir Clock Tower before you go, too. The Kemeraltı Bazaar is the perfect place to grab some Turkish souvenirs, if you haven’t done so already!

Don’t miss out on the Alsancak district . It is one of the busiest districts in town and where you can truly feel the spirit of Izmir!

day tours in turkey

Are you reading this from Turkey? Maybe you need a VPN!

day tours in turkey

If you’re already in Turkey, there is one thing you absolutely NEED: a reliable VPN .

You may find some of your favorite websites and apps are blocked in Turkey , such as popular hotel site booking.com

A VPN allows you to get passed this ruling and enables you to browse these sites without any hassle, and it’s completely legal.

We use Express VPN when we’re in Turkey and we’d recommend it to anyone. It’s affordable, quick, and easy to use.

Suggested Itinerary Option 2: Istanbul > Cappadocia > Antalya

For the second option of our 1 week Turkey itinerary, we have swapped out Izmir for Antalya. Izmir is definitely worth a visit if you love history, but another reason to visit Turkey is for the iconic Turkish Riviera.

If you would like some time by the beach, then you should make a stop by Antalya instead, one of the best coastal cities in Turkey . Don’t worry though, there’s still plenty of history to explore here, you just will have to miss the famous Ephesus.

For this itinerary, we would recommend you spend two days in Istanbul, two days in Cappadocia , and three days in Antalya .

You can follow the same itinerary as option one up until Cappadocia, but instead, follow these three days at the end.

is antalya worth visiting

Day 5-7: Antalya

The great thing about Antalya is not only its beaches but its location. Nestled in the center of Turkey along the coast, it’s possible to take day trips from Antalya to other areas that you might want to visit, such as Pamukkale, Alanya, Kemer and Side.

During these three days in Antalya, we’ll be exploring its incredible history, stunning surrounding nature, and beaches. We’ll also give you one day to pick a day trip of your choice.

Here’s where you can find airport transfers to make this part of the trip smooth:

  • To Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV)
  • To Kayseri Airport (ASR)
  • From Antalya Airport to hotel

Day 5: Antalya Beaches

Kaputas-Beach-Turkey

After all the exploring you’ve done so far, you deserve a rest. We recommend you take the first day in Antalya to explore one (or two) of Antalya’s beaches.

If you are staying in Antalya’s historic center (Kaleici), which you totally should, then the city’s most popular beach – Konyaalti Beach, is only a short 30 minutes away by public transport. It is a beautiful beach with the famed Taurus Mountain Range in the background, however, it is quite a rocky beach.

Konyaalti Beach is one of the best beaches if you are traveling as a family in Turkey because it is super accessible and easy to get there.

If you want something more sandy, you can check out:

  • Lara Beach – an hour away from Antalya historic center
  • Kaputaş Beach – 3 hours away from Antalya in Kas, only recommend if you have the time.
  • Cleopatra Beach – 2 hours away from Antalya in Alanya, super beautiful.

Day 6: Day trip from Antalya

day tours in turkey

We mentioned earlier that Antalya is a great location for day trips. It’s possible to take a day trip to Ephesus and Pamukkale from Antalya, but there’s a lot of travel involved.

If you want to take a day trip to somewhere historic, then the Ancient City of Perge or the Lycian Rock Tombs of Myra are only a short drive away.

Alternatively, you can take a boat tour from the historic Roman harbor. This is a great way to explore the turquoise blue waters of the Turquoise Coast and admire the stunning Lower Duden Waterfalls , one of the greatest attractions in Antalya.

Another popular day trip is to Antalya’s stunning nature spots. The Taurus Mountains and Koprulu Canyon are all a short distance from Antalya city center and provide excellent hiking, biking, and white water rafting facilities.

Day 7: Antalya Old Town

Roman Harbor Antalya

On the last day, you will need to fly back home, so you won’t want to travel too far that day. This is why exploring the Old Town of Antalya is best kept to the end. Antalya has a long and fascinating history, having been conquered by many tribes – from the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and even Egyptians.

The Old Town is the best place to see all that history come to life. Make sure to include the old Roman Harbor, Hadrian’s Gate, and the beautiful Antalya Clock Tower on your Antalya itinerary .

Extend to 10 Days Turkey Itinerary

You might be realizing by now that 7 days is not a lot of time to see the whole of this massive and diverse country. If you would like to extend your Turkey trip from 7-10 days, here’s what we recommend you do.

For a 10 day Turkey itinerary, we recommend you combine our two options. We recommend you spend three days in Istanbul , two days in Cappadocia, two days in Antalya, and then fly to Izmir for the final three days, spending one of those days taking a day trip to Pamukkale .

Your 10 day Turkey itinerary would look something like this.

  • Day 1-3: Istanbul
  • Day 4-5: Cappadocia
  • Day 6-7: Antalya
  • Day 8: Izmir
  • Day 9: Pamukkale
  • Day 10: Izmir to home

Pamukkale Travertine Terraces

📚 Read More: The Ultimate Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale Itinerary!

Getting Around Turkey

Turkey has quite a decent transport system, especially for internal flights. You can fly directly from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Cappadocia to Antalya , Antalya to Izmir, and Izmir to Istanbul, which really reduces the amount of travel time you spend. Especially as you only have 7 days.

You can also take long-distance night buses. The advantage of this is that you don’t lose a day of traveling by traveling overnight. The downside is it’s exhausting. After trying to sleep on a 12-hour bus journey, you’re going to feel very drained exploring all the attractions.

The same goes for if you are driving. It’s quite inexpensive to hire a car and drive, however, we don’t recommend this option for getting around Turkey for a 7 day itinerary. This is because you will be far too exhausted to see and do anything.

Long Distance Buses Turkey

In Cappadocia, there is a minibus network that connects you to all the main attractions, and it’s also possible to hire a car in Cappadocia or take taxis from A to B. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive from one another so if you hire a car in Cappadocia you can see more, and also won’t be too tired after driving.

To get around the cities – Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya have a great internal transport service, including a tram service that connects you to many of the main attractions.

For each city, you don’t need to buy a ticket, you can simply use your contactless payment card to pay for any public transport.

📖 Note: Contactless cards are now accepted in most of the major cities in Turkey, including Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, Fethiye, Marmaris, Bodrum, Oludeniz, Alanya, and more.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

We know that we’re not all lucky enough to pack our bags and zip off at a moment’s notice, so if you’re planning a trip to Turkey in advance, then you’ll need to consider when is the best time to visit.

Fortunately, any time would be a good time to visit. Even in the winter! During the winter, temperatures in Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya are mild at a comfortable 15°C on average. Winter in Cappadocia is a sight that you’ll never forget.

hot air balloon in winter cappadocia

Cappadocia is at a much higher elevation than the other spots on our itineraries, so you can expect it to be much colder. In fact, it even snows here.

Imagine seeing a desert in the snow? Magical. If Cappadocia is one of the main reasons for your trip to Turkey, then check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Cappadocia .

The wettest months of the year are December – February. This is when Turkey receives most of its rainfall, with a 19% chance of rain most days.

The hottest months are July and August. The temperatures can reach as high as the low 40°C’s in August, so if you’re visiting this time of year then make sure to prepare for it to be hot and bring plenty of sun protection.

Perhaps the best time of year to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April, October, and November), as the weather is dry, a comfortable temperature, and nearly always sunny. Plus they are considered the quiet season so you can visit without the crowds. This is the best time to visit Bodrum and destinations on the coast.

Tips for Visiting Turkey

Cleopatra-Beach-Alanya-Antalya

Before you start packing your suitcase and booking places to stay in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, or Antalya, we have just a few words of advice to help you make the most out of your trip to Turkey,…

  • Get your e-Visa before you fly – Americans now need a visa to enter Turkey. Though you can get one on arrival, it is much cheaper to get it ahead of time on the government’s official site. If you’re not from America, it’s a good idea to check the entry requirements from your country, which you can also do at the official site .
  • Pick up a Turkish SIM card or an eSIM – Make sure you are always connected and have plenty of data, as you’re going to need to use Google Maps to find your way to attractions.
  • Get a museum pass if you want to see more than one museum – If you’re interested in seeing more than one museum, you can save money by using the city pass which allows you to enter multiple museums. There is a city pass for Istanbul and Antalya.
  • Get the museum pass for Cappadocia if you are doing independent sightseeing – The Cappadocia Museum Pass covers 13 attractions in Cappadocia, including the underground cities and Goreme Open Air Museum. You could potentially save some money by getting the Cappadocia Musuem Pass.
  • Book internal flights early – You can typically save a bit on your travel budget for Turkey if you are prepared and book your flights in advance.
  • Be prepared for disappointment with hot air balloons in Cappadocia – The hot air balloons can only fly when weather conditions are optimal, which is not every day. As you only have a short time in Turkey, you would need to be lucky for the weather to be good on your trip. For hot air balloons, it’s best to visit Cappadocia in June – August.
  • Drink plenty of water – Turkey is hot pretty much all year round, so be prepared for this and carry plenty of water with you.
  • Wear appropriate clothing when traveling in Turkey – You should cover your shoulders and knees when entering a mosque, and women need to cover their hair.

How Many Days In Turkey To Spend?

Hidirlik-Tower-Antalya

Generally speaking, you can spend as many as a few weeks to as little as a few days in Turkey . As we mentioned, Turkey is a massive country with plenty of things to do and see. Each region of Turkey provides a different experience for travelers – from rich historic cities like Istanbul to beautiful beaches in the Turkish Riviera.

If this is your first trip to Turkey, we recommend you to spend at least a week to two weeks. This will give you enough time to explore one region of Turkey thoroughly and understand its cultural significance as part of the Republic of Turkey.

For people with only a few days, it is best that you spend it in one city or part of Turkey, whether that would be Istanbul, Cappadocia, or Antalya.

FAQs About This 7 Day Turkey Itinerary

Here’s what people usually ask us about this 7 day Turkey itinerary…

Is 7 Days Enough to Visit Turkey?

7 days is not enough time to see all of the highlights in Turkey. We recommend to spend at least 10-14 days to see it all comfortably. But if you only have limited time on your itinerary, you can However, you can see many of the top landmarks in 7 days.

Where Should I Go in Turkey for a Week?

If you have one week in Turkey, you should focus your time on Istanbul, Cappadocia, and either Antalya or Izmir. This way, you can experience some of the best our every region in Turkey.

Which is better Bodrum or Antalya?

Antalya and Bodrum are both amazing places to visit in Turkey. We recommend Antalya over Bodrum since it is a little bit more historical, cultural and affordable.

Final Thoughts on Turkey Itinerary 7 days

So there you have it, this is how you can spend a week in Turkey. As you can see, there’s a lot to pack into a 7 day Turkey itinerary, which is why we have given you two options. We hope that this Turkey itinerary helps you plan your adventure.

If you have any questions, let us know in the comments.

day tours in turkey

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Louisa Smith

Louisa is a professional travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust for exploring the captivating country of Turkey. With a deep appreciation for the country’s diverse history and natural beauty, Louisa has made it her mission to share the wonders of Turkey with the world. Born in the UK and raised by two Travel Agent parents, she was born with a perpetual case of the travel bug and now travels full time as a travel writer. Louisa has embarked on numerous adventures across Turkey, and shares her first-hand expertise and experience about her favorite destinations in Turkey, such as Antalya, Alanya, Fethiye and Bodrum.

18 thoughts on “An Epic 7-Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus Option For 10 Days)”

Excellent and detailed itinerary . Thanks a ton for the efforts. If you could share the 14 day itinerary recommendation, that would be very helpful

Thank you! We will prepare a 14 day itinerary in the future. But in the meantime, if I had 14 days, I would do something like this:

Day 1-3: Istanbul Day 4-6: Cappadocia Day 7-10: Antalya Day 11: Pamukkale Day 12-14: Izmir

Honestly, I wouldn’t add any more places to this as there are so many great day trips you can take from Izmir and Antalya, so I would prefer to spend more time there.

Thanks a ton.

Many thanks for such a detailed itinerary.

I am planning to visit Turkey during Eid holidays for 7 days in April and was actually struggling with the various tour agents to finalize the places. But this is very concise and informative.

I will definitely consider this.

Best comprehensive summary on visiting Turkey and to visit all the historical sites in 7-10 days itinerary.

Is there a ballpark budget you have for the 10 day trip (excluding flights)?

Hi Khadija, we have a complete guide on budgeting in Turkey. You can view that here: https://theturkeytraveler.com/is-turkey-expensive

hi planning to do a solo travel to turkey In Aug (12th-19th) with the following iternary.

3 days-Istanbul 2 days – capadocia 2 days- Antalaya

just wanted to know should i do bookings in advance for tours, ( i know balloon rides needs to be booked in advance). need some help and clarification on following:

1. is it safe to use the metro and tram for commuting in city? 2. should i book tours in advance since i heard its peak tourist season in Aug

Hi Sheetal, since you’re traveling in August I would recommend you book tours and hotels in advance as this is one of the busiest seasons in Turkey. If for any reason a tour can’t happen, you will be refunded. The hot air balloon rides for example can only fly when weather conditions are optimal so if the weather isn’t on your side you can reschedule or be refunded the full price of the ticket. Yes it’s safe to use the metro in Istanbul, it’s much safer than using public taxis in our opinion. You can use the tram in Istanbul and Antalya as well which is also safe. However, be aware of your belongings and keep an eye out for pickpockets when they are crowded. I recommend you get the Istanbulkart and Antalyakart, which are travel cards that you can top up and use on all public transport in the city.

I have 7 days and I want to visit – Istanbul, Cappadocia and Pamukkale. My in and out flights are from Istanbul. I have planed Istanbul and Cappadocia but I am struggling to plan beyond Cappadocia to Pamukkale. Any suggestions?

It’s quite a long distance from Cappadocia to Pamukkale, so because you are short on time your best option is to either take the night bus from Cappadocia to Denizli and then a bus to Pamukkale so you can save a day of your itinerary for exploring (assuming you can sleep on a night bus), or you can fly to Denizli and take a bus. Here is a complete guide on how to get from Cappadocia to Pamukkale that has more detail on how to do this.

hi guys, i have a trip to Turkey next week (20 Sept onwards). My planned route is Istanbul – Alacati – Cesme – Ephesus – Pammukale – Cappadocia – Istanbul.

I’m having trouble finding the right info for my travel from Izmir-Ephesus-Pammukale . 1. If i were to take the train in the morning from Izmir to Selcuk & then a taxi/minivan to Ephesus, is there any luggage storage place at the Selcuk Train station ? 2. From Selcuk in the late noon/evening, what is the best public transport to get me to Pammukale and stay the night there? 3. Early morning visit Pammukale pools and is there a bus to Cappadocia ? or any other suggested public transport?

kindly advise.

Hi D, there is no luggage storage at Selcuk train station, but there is luggage storage at Selcuk bus station which you can use for a fee. You can then get a train to Denizli after exploring Ephesus from Selcuk (I believe there are several throughout the day and the last one is around 8pm, but do check with the ticket office when you arrive). I suggest you stay in Denizli overnight and then get the minibus to Pamukkale the next morning. After exploring Pamukkale you should return to Denizli and then you can then get a night bus from Denizli bus station to Cappadocia, or you can fly from Denizli to Cappadocia if you don’t like long-distance buses. I hope this helps!

Hello Sean and Louisa! I came across your page while planning for my 12 days Turkey itinerary, which is happening end of Oct 2023. This would be my first time to Turkey and your page has been really helpful. Would like to get your thoughts & advice on my planned itinerary.

My planned route currently looks like this:- Istanbul – 3 days Cappadocia – 3 days Antalya – 3 days Pamukkale – 1 day Izmir – 3 days

Questions: 1. Is it advisable to rent a car to travel between Cappadocia > Antalya > Pamukkale > Izmir? I’m planning to fly from Istanbul > Cappadocia, and from Izmir > Istanbul on the final day. Can you recommend a good car rental contact? Are public transportation ie. buses frequent and reliable in this route? What would be the best way to get around? 2. Is it worth spending a night in Pamukkale or should I travel directly from Antalya to Izmir, and plan a separate day for Pamukkale? 3. Should I make a stop in Fethiye, in between Antalya and Pamukkale?

Thanks in advance 🙂

Hi Ade, we’re pleased you found this guide helpful. Your itinerary plan looks good! You can rent a car which is the easiest way to get around, but it’s also possible to get from place to place via bus. Buses are frequent between these places and you also have the option of taking night buses, which helps to give you more time for exploring. The bus company we like is Metro, and you can find bus tickets from their website here . If you prefer to rent a car, we recommend using Discover Cars. We have found the best prices with them and we have used them ourselves and know them to be reliable. You can browse car rental options here . If I were you, I would get the bus from Cappadocia to Antalya and take a day tour from Antalya to Pamukkale so you don’t need to worry about traveling yourself and spending the money on a car hire. Here is a link to a great tour from Antalya to Pamukkale . Then you can fly from Antalya to Izmir directly. I don’t think you will have time to fit Fethiye in on this trip, as it’s about 3-4 hours from Antalya to Fethiye depending on whether you drive or take a bus, and also not really on the route to Pamukkale. If you get the day tour as we mentioned then you should have plenty of time to fit everything in.

Thanks for the advice and reco! Would definitely consider them. Can I opt to take the bus from Antalya to Pamukkale (spend a night here) and then take another bus to Izmir the following day?

You can take the bus from Antalya to Denizli, and then there is another bus to Pamukkale. If you spend the night in Pamukkale, I recommend you get up early in the morning and visit the Travertine Terraces at sunrise, and explore the ruins and swim in the hot spring pools. Then you can leave late morning and catch a bus from Pamukkale to Denizli, and then another bus from Denizli to Izmir. It’s a lot of road travel, but it’s possible. I recommend you check out this guide on how to visit Pamukkale for sunrise .

This has been really helpful. Thank you so much!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

This website uses affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through a link at no extra cost to you. TheTurkeyTraveler is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our full affiliate disclosure .

© 2024 The Turkey Traveler

One Nation Travel logo with text highlighting Turkey tours, combining iconic imagery and vibrant colors.

No products in the cart.

Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul

10 Days in Turkey Itinerary: The Perfect Trip for First-Timers

Explore the best of turkey in 10 days.

Ever dreamt of wandering through ancient markets, soaring above unique landscapes, lounging on gorgeous beaches, or soaking in otherworldly natural pools? If yes, then let’s embark on a 10-day journey across enchanting Turkey. A place where the traditions of the East blend with the modernity of the West, Turkey truly offers a myriad of experiences for every traveler.

Experience the Ultimate 10-Day Tour of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Pamukkale – Unmatched in Excellence!

Why Choose Turkey?

Turkey travel map

Why, indeed? Isn’t the promise of rich history, delectable cuisine, diverse culture, and dramatic landscapes enough? Well, if you’re still pondering, let me assure you, a trip to Turkey is like stepping into a time machine, where each city offers a different epoch to explore.

Day 1-3: Istanbul

Arrival and check-in.

Touchdown Istanbul ! The city straddles two continents and marries the past with the present. Check into your accommodation, refresh, and get ready to discover Istanbul.

Exploring Istanbul

Visit the grand bazaar.

Start your journey in the heart of Istanbul, the Grand Bazaar. A labyrinth of stalls selling everything from spices to exquisite carpets, isn’t it reminiscent of Aladdin’s Agrabah?

Explore the Hagia Sophia

Next, make your way to Hagia Sophia , an architectural marvel that has stood as a church, a mosque, and now, a museum. Can you imagine a more visible testament to Istanbul’s layered history?

Roam around the Blue Mosque

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the stunning Blue Mosque . Its six minarets piercing the skyline are a sight to behold, aren’t they?

Stroll along the Bosphorus

Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the Bosphorus . The sea breeze and the twilight view of the city, isn’t it a perfect ending to your first day?

Day 4-6: Cappadocia

Travelling to cappadocia.

Bid farewell to Istanbul and board your flight to Cappadocia . Known for its distinctive “fairy chimneys,” Cappadocia feels like stepping onto another planet, doesn’t it?

Discovering Cappadocia

Hot air balloon ride.

Rise early and take to the skies in a hot air balloon. Seeing the sunrise over the surreal landscape, isn’t it worth waking up early for?

Visit to the Göreme Open-Air Museum

Next, head to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the ancient rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes. Are you feeling like an explorer already?

Walking through the Fairy Chimneys

Finish your day with a walk amongst the famous fairy chimneys. You can even explore inside some of them. Isn’t that a fascinating experience?

Day 7-8: Antalya

Journey to antalya.

Wave goodbye to Cappadocia and set off to Antalya , the Turkish Riviera. Get ready for some sun, sand, and sea!

Experiencing Antalya

Relax on the beach.

First things first, hit the beach! Feel the sand between your toes and the sun on your skin. Can you think of a better way to relax?

Explore the Old Town

Afterwards, wander through Antalya’s picturesque old town, Kaleiçi. With its narrow winding streets, and quaint shops, doesn’t it feel like a journey back in time?

Day 9-10: Pamukkale

Heading to pamukkale.

From Antalya, embark on your final leg to Pamukkale . Known for its white terraces, formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, Pamukkale is like a cotton castle, right?

Marvel at Pamukkale

Visit the travertines.

Spend your day wandering around the stunning travertines. Don’t forget to dip your feet in the warm waters. Isn’t it soothing?

Explore the Hierapolis Ancient City

Next, explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis located atop Pamukkale. The well-preserved Roman theater, Necropolis, and the ancient pool, don’t they take you back in time?

So, that’s your 10-day journey through Turkey , packed with history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. It’s like a rollercoaster ride through time, isn’t it? Whether it’s the buzzing streets of Istanbul, the enchanting landscape of Cappadocia, the beachside charm of Antalya, or the natural beauty of Pamukkale, there’s something for every traveler in Turkey.

  • The best time to visit Turkey is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.
  • The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
  • Visa requirements for Turkey depend on your nationality. Be sure to check with your local embassy or consulate for the latest information.
  • Yes, Turkey is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about the local situation and follow safety precautions.
  • English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major cities in Turkey. However, learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance your travel experience.

Discover Turkey: Our Top 3 Recommended Tour Packages

Panoramic view of iconic landmarks from the 10 Days Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, and Cappadocia Tour, showcasing the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, ancient ruins in Ephesus, the white terraces of Pamukkale, the stunning coastline of Antalya, and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

Similar Posts

Explore the ancient ruins of Gobekli Tepe

Explore the ancient ruins of Gobekli Tepe

Uncover the mysteries of Gobekli Tepe on this enlightening tour. Delve into the heart of ancient civilization, where monumental stone pillars tell tales of a bygone era

10 Best Things To Do In Cappadocia: A Traveler’s Guide

10 Best Things To Do In Cappadocia: A Traveler’s Guide

Experience Cappadocia’s top 10 essential activities, from hot air balloon adventures to unique cave accommodations. Dive into the region’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.

Visiting and Traveling in Turkey: A Mesmerizing Blend of East and West

Visiting and Traveling in Turkey: A Mesmerizing Blend of East and West

Embark on a journey through Turkey’s enchanting landscapes and historical wonders. Experience the perfect blend of culture and nature. Explore Turkey now!

Top 5 Turkey Packages for Every Type of Traveler

Top 5 Turkey Packages for Every Type of Traveler

Embark on a 7-day journey through Turkey’s heart, exploring Istanbul’s historic charm, Pamukkale’s thermal wonders, the ancient city of Ephesus, and Cappadocia’s lunar landscapes.

Top Travel Agencies in the USA: Leading Choices for Your Trips

Top Travel Agencies in the USA: Leading Choices for Your Trips

Explore leading travel agencies in the USA for a smooth, memorable trip. Evaluate their offerings, experiences, and value to identify the ideal match for your travel requirements.

How to Go from Istanbul to Pamukkale: A Complete Guide

How to Go from Istanbul to Pamukkale: A Complete Guide

Discover the best ways to travel from Istanbul to Pamukkale and explore the Cotton Castle, ensuring a safe, affordable, and unforgettable Turkish adventure.

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

Made in Turkey Tours Logo

Destinations

  • Blue Cruise
  • Plan My Trip

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

Already a member.

Username or E-mail

Forget Password?

Don't have an account? Create one.

lab-pin

Looking for something different?

Why book with us.

  • Best value-for-money guarantee
  • Easy booking process
  • Hand-picked tours & activities
  • Team support 24/7 available

Please do not hesitate to give us a call. We love pre-booking questions and we are always here to help!

+90 384 341 40 44 [email protected]

The First-Timer’s 11 Night Turkey Itinerary

  • 11 Nights / 12 Days
  • Private Tour
  • All Year Round
  • Leisure & Laid Back
  • Family, Couple, Friends

Highlights of the Itinerary

Venture out on an epic 12-day journey across Turkey’s most captivating highlights as you enjoy a selection of spectacular experiences designed to delight you every step of the way.

  • Explore Istanbul’s history as whispered by its never-ending list of stunning architectural marvels from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Visit iconic mosques, churches, and a spectacular art museum.
  • Embark on a scenic cruise up the Bosphorus strait for a different perspective of the historical city.
  • In Cappadocia, explore one of the most striking regions in the world. Take a scenic balloon ride across its expansive skies for a bird’s eye view of the area.
  • Tour the beautiful port city of Izmir and uncover its grandest treasures.
  • Take a trip back in time to an ancient Greek city in the 3000-year-old ruins at the ruins of Ephesus.
  • Spend three days exploring the vibrant port city of Bodrum.

Departure & Return Location

Approx. pick-up time.

Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir, Ephesus, Bodrum

Price Includes

  • Boutique Style Accommodation
  • All Private Transfers
  • Professional Tour Guide
  • Local (Non-Touristy) Lunches
  • Private Bosphorus Cruise Luxury motor-yacht / 2 hours
  • Hot-air balloon ride Deluxe +/- 1hr 30min flight
  • Entrance Tickets/Fees

Price Excludes

  • Room Upgrade
  • Turkish Bath (Hamam) Experience
  • Optional activities

What to Expect

Taking this journey will give you a glimpse of everything magical about Turkey. From ancient but well-preserved ruins, breathtaking churches and mosques, to beautiful cities both above and below the ground, this tour takes you on an epic adventure across one of the top destinations in the world. On some days, you’ll walk through bustling city streets, markets, and ruins and enjoy breathtaking boat and balloon ride on others.

Tour Photos Hagia Sophia Aerial View of the Old City

Itinerary Details

Day 1 istanbul.

Touchdown at the airport in Istanbul and an escorted transfer to your hotel. Spend the night in Istanbul.

Overnight at Istanbul | Meals: None

Day 2 Explore Istanbul

On the first day, delve into some of the city’s most iconic locations. Officially start your tour by exploring the splendid Topkapi Palace, where the sultans stayed for almost three centuries. Sitting between the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus, this 15th-century palace gives you some insight into the extravagant lives of royalty. Alongside its striking architectural style and stunning views of the Bosphorus, it displays magnificent Chinese and Japanese porcelain collections, Ottoman weapons, and delicate fabrics.

Next up is the exquisite Blue Mosque with its famed Blue Iznik tiles. The mosque’s six minarets are one of the most iconic sights in Istanbul’s skyline, but it’s the dazzling interior that steals the show; around 20,000 Iznik tiles illuminated by 260 colorful windows decorate the mosque.

Opposite the Blue Mosque is the world-famous Hagia Sophia. This 6th-century structure is a breathtaking testament to Istanbul’s incredible blend of different styles and cultures. Fourteen centuries ago, it was the most stunning church in all of Christendom until Sultan Mehmet II conquered Constantinople and ordered its conversion into a mosque. The result was a delicate blend of Islamic and Christian decorations, creating a timeless architectural marvel that will enchant you when you set foot.

Last but not least will be the largest and oldest market in Turkey, the Grand Bazaar. Here, you have the opportunity to shop for some of the finest wares from all over the country. In addition, you can find cheap and impressive souvenirs to remind you of your magnificent adventure in Istanbul.

Overnight at Istanbul | Meals: B

Day 3 More of Istanbul & Private Cruise of the Bosphorus

Start the third day with a touch of art at the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, founded in 2004 and is the country’s first museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Enjoy impressive displays serving as the finest examples of modern Turkish creativity and cultural identity during the tour. Apart from the art, the museum also has a growing collection of over 11,500 books in Turkish and other languages.

From the museum, you will then embark on a private two-hour cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. As you sip your wine or soft drink, enjoy magnificent views of the city’s skyline from the waters, and witness the harmonious blend of Ottoman architecture with modern architecture. If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of dolphins accompanying you on your journey upstream. The tour will then lead you to the classy district of Nisantasi for upscale shopping and fashion experiences in its elegant cafes and boutiques. Our final stop for the day will be at the heart of the city in the Pera district.

Overnight at Istanbul | Meals: B, L

Day 4 Istanbul to Cappadocia

In the morning, fly from Istanbul to Nevsehir or Kayseri, and drive to Cappadocia.

Overnight at Cappadocia | Meals: B

Day 5 Cappadocia

Start your day with the most scenic experience of your life; an early-morning hot-air balloon flight at sunrise. As your rise with the sun and gently drift across the Cappadocian skies, enjoy breathtaking views of the region’s incredible landscape. Getting a bird’s eye view of the region’s spectacular valleys dotted with multicolored fairy chimneys and impressive monasteries as the sun slowly paints the land orange is an experience of a lifetime.

After your flight, head over to Cappadocia’s most visited site in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Goreme Open Air Museum. Here, you will explore impressive rock-cut churches from the dark ages. Inside these churches are what are arguably the finest examples of Christian rock art in the world. Enjoy these impressively preserved frescoes in the Dark Church, Apple Church, St. Barbara Church, Snake Church, Buckle Church, and the Sandals Church.

Our tour will take you underground to the most expansive subterranean town in the region; Kaymakli underground city. Believed to have been dug out in the Hittite period, this impressive town extends eight levels below ground, but only four are open to the public. Inside, you will explore the living quarters, storage rooms, stables, schools and churches, wine presses, and ventilation shafts. These features allowed the city to support a population of thousands of ancient Cappadocians at a time. After a day of exploring this magical land, return to your Cappadocia hotel for the night.

Overnight at Cappadocia | Meals: B, L

Day 6 Izmir

Early morning flight to the beautiful port city of Izmir, where you will spend the rest of the day exploring some of its finest attractions. Set on the Aegean coast, one of the best places in this beautiful city is the iconic seafront Kordon (promenade). The seafront is grassed and has bicycle and walking paths lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is an excellent place to relax and watch breathtaking sunsets. In addition, there are a couple of museums, bicycles for hire, and even horse-drawn carriages.

Another excellent attraction in the area that you can explore is the Izmir Museum of History & Art, which boasts one of the richest repositories of ancient artifacts in turkey. From there, proceed to other impressive sites like the remains of the 4th century BCE agora, constructed in the ancient Roman city of Smyrna’s.

Overnight at Sirince | Meals: B, L

Day 7 Ephesus

You will spend this day on a memorable journey through history in the ancient city of Ephesus, home to the best-preserved ruins of an ancient city in Turkey. Founded in 6000 BCE, the city was once the capital of Roman Asia and the second-largest city in the ancient world. Here, you will explore the awe-inspiring ruins of one of the wonders of the ancient world; the Temple of Artemis.

The site indeed surrounds one with an impressive history, as it is also home to the Great Theatre and the Celsus Library. This theatre was the largest in ancient Rome and accommodated up to 24,000 spectators eager to witness the valiant gladiator battles, sporting competitions, and art performances.

Today, Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches for about 8 square kilometers. Spend the day walking the cobblestone streets of this magnificent city, followed by a visit to the House of Virgin Mary before returning to Sirince for a night’s stay.

Overnight at Antalya | Meals: B, L

Day 8 Bodrum

After Ephesus, proceed to another charming port city, Bodrum. On the way to Bodrum, the tour will pass through the ruins of three ancient Greek cities; Priene, Miletus, and Didyma.

Overnight at Bodrum | Meals: B, L

Day 9 Bodrum

The final stop of this scenic adventure will be Bodrum. With an impressive marina full of yachts ready to embark on a Mediterranean cruise, the city is vibrant with tourist activity. Away from its white sandy beaches and elegant seaside resorts, the old town’s streets are lined with gorgeous, old whitewashed houses. For the next three days, you will spend your time exploring the beautiful city and its incredible attractions.

Overnight at Bodrum | Meals: B

Day 10 Bodrum

Suggested activity for the day: when not enjoying the warm sun at the exquisite beaches, you should take time to explore some top sites in the city. These include the Castle of St. Peter and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

Day 11 More of Bodrum

Enjoy some more sunbathing and exploration, and spend the night here.

Day 12 Departure

Private transfer to Bodrum airport for your flight back home via Istanbul or next destination(s).

Should I book pre/post tour accommodation?

As on any other itinerary sample on our website, we can combine this package with any other destinations on demand.

Related Tours

Pamukkale (Hierapolis) Day Tour

Full-Day Hierapolis and Pamukkale Tour

Istanbul Cappadocia 7 Days Tour

Turkey’s Most Iconic Destinations: Istanbul & Cappadocia

' src=

Thank you to Made in Turkey Tours and Ismail for planning the most spectacular 2 week trip of Turkey for us. He is very professional, responsive, and great to work with to customize the itinerary for us. It was our first trip to Turkey and we visited Istanbul, Cappadocia, Kusadasi, and Bodrum. All of the flights, drivers, guides, and hotels were excellent and we would highly recommend. We enjoyed everything about this trip and look forward to planning our next visit to Turkey with MTT.

' src=

We began our 12 day trip to Turkey with a blank sheet of paper. Fortunately we connected with Ismael of Made In Turkey Tours. We knew we wanted a luxury experience. Ismael not only met, but exceeded our expectations. We went to Istanbul, Cappadocia and Alacati. From the moment we landed in Istanbul to our departure from Izmir, every driver and tour guide was on time and professional. ‘We especially enjoyed the Hammam in Istanbul and the hot air balloon in Cappadocia. Alacati had hundreds of restaurants in charming narrow streets. The hotels Ismael chose were indeed a luxury experience. Although we had an outline of our day to day itinerary, Ismael gave us the flexibility to change as we learned more about our likes and dislikes. We even diverted to Chios, a Greek Island off the coast of Cesme. Ismael and our guide made the plans for that trip within an hour. It was a great day on the island and our guide joined us for the experience. They arranged an english speaking taxi driver and tour guide to meet us at the ferry in Chios. I have been fortunate to travel the world using companies located in the countries I wanted to see. Ismael and his group are at the top of the list of great experiences.

' src=

My daughter and I went for 12 days and had a great time. We had a different private guide in each location which made a world of difference. In Capoddocia we were scheduled to go on s hot air balloon ride but the weather did not cooperate. Very disappointing but Ismail, our travel agent, reimbursed me. He was very thorough and answered all of my questions promptly. The last couple of days we spent on the Bodrum peninsula at a gorgeous resort hotel called Edition right on the Aegean Sea. Please be aware that this is a very active private tour and you should be in very good physical condition since there is a lot of walking on uneven levels and lots of stair climbing.

' src=

We both remember this as the best trip we’ve ever taken.

  • +90 532 450 8227
  • [email protected]

day tours in turkey

Top Destination

Best Bosphorus Dinner Cruise in Istanbul

From: 39  €

2 Days Istanbul Tours Without Hotel

From: 155  €

3 Days Istanbul Diamond Tour Package

From: 229  €

Dolmabahce Palace & Bezmi Alem Valide Sultan Tour

From: 45  €

2 Day Exotic Istanbul Tours Package

From: 249  €

Bosphorus Cruise & Two Continents Tour

From: 70  €

Package tours.

2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul

From: 315  €

3 Days Cappadocia Tour Package with Ihlara Valley Tour

From: 389  €

3 Day Gallipoli Troy and Ephesus Tours From Istanbul

From: 479  €

3 Days Cappadocia and Ephesus Tour from Istanbul

From: 670  €

3 Days Istanbul to Ephesus and Pamukkale Tours

From: 390  €

6 Days Cappadocia and Antalya Tour

From: 589  €

Tour From Istanbul to Troy and Ephesus

From: 369  €

Do you know.

There are so many places to visit in Turkey?

Why Choose Us?

Competitive pricing, award-winning service, tour search.

IMAGES

  1. 6 Epic Places to Visit in Turkey

    day tours in turkey

  2. 5 Days Turkey Tour Package

    day tours in turkey

  3. 5 Days Istanbul Package » Unique Tailor Made Turkey Tours

    day tours in turkey

  4. Antalya Boat Trip

    day tours in turkey

  5. 20 Days Best Turkey Tour

    day tours in turkey

  6. The Best Turkey Tours & Vacation Packages 2021/2022

    day tours in turkey

VIDEO

  1. Beautiful Day In Antalya Turkey 2023

  2. The Best Street Food In Turkey

  3. 10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

  4. Custom design Turkey vacations

  5. Türkiye awaits you in all seasons⎮Go Türkiye

  6. Unveiling Turkey. A Comprehensive Travel

COMMENTS

  1. THE TOP 10 Turkey Day Trips (w/Prices)

    The best Day Trips in Turkey according to Viator travelers are: Pamukkale Hierapolis and Cleopatra's Pool Tour with lunch from Antalya; EPHESUS 4 to 6 Hours 4 Tours with Private Options NO HIDDEN COSTS; Full Day Private Cappadocia Tour (Car & Guide ) Suluada Boat Tour From Antalya (Maldives of Turkey) with Lunch & Hotel Transfer

  2. THE TOP 10 Full-day Tours

    A: The best Full-day Tours in Turkey according to Viator travelers are: Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour. Pamukkale Hierapolis and Cleopatra's Pool Tour with lunch from Antalya. Small Group Tour: Essential Istanbul.

  3. THE TOP 10 Istanbul Day Trips (w/Prices)

    Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour. 4,667. Prepare to be awed by Istanbul's magnificent architecture, rich history, and eclectic bazaars as you discover the unmissable highlights of the Old City on this 1-, 2-, or 3-day private tour. Marvel over the glorious Hagia Sophia, learn how the Blue Mosque earned its famous ...

  4. Turkey Vacation & Tour Packages

    Cosmopolitan cities brimming with modern delights, archaeological sites filled with ancient splendor, curious landscapes straight out of a storybook and picture-perfect coastlines frequented by the jet set… this is tantalizing Turkey! Book a tour today with Intrepid Travel to experience this majestic country.

  5. THE 10 BEST Istanbul Tours & Excursions

    per adult. 5. Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Stopover on the Asian Side - (Morning or Afternoon) 768. Coffee Cruises. 2-3 hours. Morning Bosphorus Cruise on Luxury Yacht See both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul on a 2.5-hour boat cruise of …. Free cancellation. Recommended by 98% of travelers.

  6. 10 Best Fully Guided Tours in Turkey 2024/2025

    Turkish Breeze-10 Days. 4.7 (7 reviews) Took the full 10 day tour with my wife including istanbul, izmir, Pamukkale, Antalya and cappadocia. Cannot thank them enough. Incredibly well organized and professional. We even booked the night before the tour started and they set up everything for you so you don't have to think.

  7. 10 Best 7 Day Turkey Tours & Trips

    7 Day Turkey Tours & Trips. Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day Turkey tour with TourRadar. Choose from 199 trips with 574 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

  8. The Ultimate 6 Day Turkey Itinerary: Historic & Cultural Gems

    By onenationtravel February 25, 2024. Embarking on a 6 to 7 Day Turkey Tours adventure offers an unparalleled experience through the heart of Turkey, blending the rich tapestry of history with the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes. This meticulously curated itinerary ensures that travelers soak in the essence of Turkey's most iconic ...

  9. THE 10 BEST Türkiye Multi-Day Tours (Updated 2024)

    2 days. Fly from Istanbul to Cappadocia for a 2-day tour with the option to add a sunrise hot air balloon flight. By coordinating…. Free cancellation. 9. Adventure Tours. 2 days. Cappadocia is an amazing wonderland in the middle of Turkey. Being world famous for the incredible rock formations it is….

  10. THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Türkiye (UPDATED 2024)

    Cappadocia is a large region in the middle of Turkey. It is approximately 1 hour flight distance to Istanbul and is one …. 22. Bursa City and Uludag Mountain Day Trip with Pick up & Cable Car. You will have a chance to discover one of the most popular cities in Turkey, Bursa, and Enjoy heights by a cable car ride…. 23.

  11. 12-Day Turkey Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus

    Discover the magic of Turkey on our 12-Day Turkey Tour Package, exploring the cultural richness of Istanbul, the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, Antalya's ancient wonders, Pamukkale's thermal waters, the historic ruins of Ephesus, and the vibrant city life of Ankara. Obtain your tour price in USD by selecting tour dates and specifics ...

  12. THE TOP 10 Turkey Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    The best tours in Turkey according to Viator travelers are: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour Over Fairychimneys. Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour. SKIP THE LINES:Best Seller Ephesus PRIVATE TOUR For Cruise Guests. Cappadocia Balloon Flight (Official) by Discovery Balloons.

  13. 17 Exciting Day Trips From Antalya, Turkey!

    Distance from Antalya: 411 km (255 miles) Travel time: 5 hours by car, 7 hours by bus, 7 hours 25 minutes by train, 1 hour 10 minutes by plane plus an additional train for 1 hour. Best way to get there: To get to Ephesus, you must first get to Izmir. From Izmir, there are three ways to get to Ephesus.

  14. 10 Days in Turkey: The Best Tours

    After analyzing 37 tours lasting 10 days in Turkey, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $175 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for tours lasting 10 days with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors.

  15. An EPIC 7-Day Turkey Itinerary in 2024 (+10-Day Option)

    Day 1-3: Istanbul Day 4-6: Cappadocia Day 7-10: Antalya Day 11: Pamukkale Day 12-14: Izmir Honestly, I wouldn't add any more places to this as there are so many great day trips you can take from Izmir and Antalya, so I would prefer to spend more time there.

  16. 10 Days in Turkey Itinerary: The Perfect Trip for First-Timers

    Experience the Ultimate 10-Day Tour of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, and Pamukkale - Unmatched in Excellence! ... A Journey Beyond the Beaten Path Embarking on a turkey tour package offers more than just a visit to the well-trodden attractions of Istanbul and Cappadocia. Turkey, a country rich with history, culture, and stunning landscapes ...

  17. THE TOP 10 Full-day Tours

    The best Full-day Tours in Istanbul according to Viator travelers are: Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour. Small Group Tour: Essential Istanbul. Istanbul Must See:Hagia Sophia Bluemosqu Topkapı Basilica Cistern Bosphorus Tour. Istanbul City Tour and Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Lunch.

  18. 9 Days in Turkey

    Between history-focused activities, enjoy unique experiences like an olive oil tasting, a local winery tour, and a day hopping between thermal spas in Pamukkale. Ruins of the Ancient Greek city of Pergamon, Turkey. Day. Highlights. Overnight. Day 1. Arrive in İstanbul, Guided Tour of the Beyoğlu or Sultanahmet District.

  19. 6 Days in Turkey

    Six days in Turkey is enough time to explore 2-3 regions. Foodies can taste their way around Istanbul on a street food tour and indulge in a Michelin-star meal. History buffs will appreciate visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum in Cappadocia, wandering around the ruins of Troy and Pergamon, and touring Ephesus. Active travelers can bike around Antalya and hike on the Lycian Way, while sun ...

  20. The First-Timer's 11 Night Turkey Itinerary

    Highlights of the Itinerary. Venture out on an epic 12-day journey across Turkey's most captivating highlights as you enjoy a selection of spectacular experiences designed to delight you every step of the way. Explore Istanbul's history as whispered by its never-ending list of stunning architectural marvels from the Byzantine and Ottoman eras.

  21. THE TOP 10 Turkey Multi-day Tours (UPDATED 2024)

    A: The best Multi-day Tours in Turkey according to Viator travelers are: 2 Day All Inclusive Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Optional Balloon Flight. Best Of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3 Day Private Guided Tour. Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia 8 Day Package.

  22. Istanbul Day Tours

    Many options for Istanbul Tours and Turkey Tours. Istanbul Day Tours are one of the biggest online booking websites. Best Price Guaranteed! Great Service! Many options for Istanbul Tours and Turkey Tours. +90 532 450 8227 [email protected] Contact. Istanbul Day Tours.

  23. Turkey Full Day Istanbul City Tour 2024

    Istanbul Highlights Half Day Small-Group Guided Tour with Drinks. 182. from $60.83. Price varies by group size. Istanbul, Turkey. ISTANBUL BEST : Iconic Landmarks FullDay Private Guided City Tour. 386. from $125.00. Per group.