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Wonders of Turkey Small Group

11 Day Turkey Tour to Istanbul & Cappadocia

From $3,595
Find this price
11 Days
1 Country

Turkey

14 Cities

Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Çanakkale, Ayvalik, Izmir, Ephesus, Hierapolis, Pamukkale, Saratli, Cappadocia, Göreme, Uchisar, Ankara

18 Meals

7 Dinners, 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 20
Premium Tours by Insight - Small Groups

Premium Small Group tours by Insight Vacations

If you prefer to travel with a smaller group of curious fellow travelers, Insight Vacations Small Group tours are the perfect choice. With a maximum of just 24 guests allowing for a more intimate, premium touring experience, enjoy all the premium features of Insight Vacations including 4 and 5-star hotels, one-of-a-kind inclusions, immersive local cultural experiences and superior dining.

Small Group Tours

Insight Vacations Small Group departures are limited to only 24 guests. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, more personalized attention from your Travel Director, and the opportunity to form closer connections with fellow travelers. Perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers who want to explore must-see destinations with like-minded people.

View Small Group Tours

Travel across Turkey with your Small Group, linking Istanbul’s mosques, bazaars and Bosphorus shores with the battlefields of Gallipoli, the ruins of Troy and the streets of ancient Ephesus. Meet women at a social enterprise, share a Farm-to-Table vineyard lunch and walk the travertine terraces of Pamukkale. In Cappadocia, step inside a cave house and watch a Sema ceremony. Along the way, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, enjoy a Small Group Exclusive experience at a backgammon lesson in a traditional coffee house and stand beneath the dome of Hagia Sophia.

Reviews
3
Average group size
average 20
Premium Tours by
Insight - Small Groups
Travel style
Small Group

Low Deposit & Flexible Booking Low Deposit from $200 + no change fees See flexible booking terms >

Best Value Why touring is the easiest way to travel Learn more >

Current Entry Requirements Check your destination View Entry Guide >

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul, the only major city set across two continents, shaped by the Bosphorus and a skyline of domes and minarets. You’ll transfer to Canopy by Hilton Istanbul, in the Beyoğlu district, and have time to settle in. If time allows, head out for a first look at the city’s waterfront life, watching ferries cross the strait and taking in views towards the historic peninsula. This evening, meet your Travel Director and your small group for dinner in a local restaurant and begin getting to know the travelers you’ll be exploring with.

Arrive Istanbul, Turkey
Arrival Transfer Depart Istanbul International Airport (IST) at 13:30, 16:30
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 18:30
Canopy by Hilton Istanbul (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Dinner

Canopy by Hilton Istanbul (or similar accommodation)

exterior-canopy-hilton-istanbul-turkey
Bar 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Reception Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Bar Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Reception 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Room 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Room Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
outside-lounge-canopy-hilton-istanbul-turkey

About the Hotel

Istanbul, Turkey

Stay at Canopy by Hilton Istanbul, your hotel in Beyoğlu near Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue. Housed in a restored building first constructed in 1830 as the Mkhitaryan Armenian School, the hotel also includes a wine bar set within a 150-year-old cistern.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Gym
  • Room Service
  • Concierge

Style

  • Contemporary
Authentic Dining Local Restaurant Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul Dinner

Meet your Travel Director and your small group for your first dinner together in Istanbul, marking the start of your journey through Turkey.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 2

Gallipoli, Anzac Cove and Troy

Follow the shores of the Sea of Marmara towards the Gallipoli Peninsula, a landscape defined by the 1915 campaign and the events commemorated each year on ANZAC Day. Visit ANZAC Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery, learning how the coastline and ridgelines shaped what happened here and how the memorial sites were established. Later, continue to Troy, the archaeological site linked to Homeric legend and later excavations that revealed multiple layers of settlement. See the replica Trojan Horse at Troy beside the excavated mound at Hisarlık, where archaeologists have identified nine main settlement layers dating from the Early Bronze Age to around A.D. 500.

Anzac Cove Gallipoli, Turkey
Kolin, Çanakkale (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Kolin, Çanakkale (or similar accommodation)

Lobby at the Kolin Hotel in Canakkale, Turkey
Exterior of the Kolin Hotel in Canakkale, Turkey

About the Hotel

The modern Kolin Hotel is located near the city center and is right on the shores of the Dardanelles Straits, facing Gallipoli Peninsula.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Anzac Cove Gallipoli, Turkey
Visit Anzac Cove in Gallipoli

Visit ANZAC Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula, the landing site for Australian and New Zealand forces on 25 April 1915. The site remains the focus of...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Trojan Horse Troy, Turkey
Visit the Trojan Horse in Troy

Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 3

Izmir

Start the day at Copmadam, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience where women turn recycled materials into handmade goods. The co-operative supports long-term employment in a part of Turkey where opportunities for women remain limited. Continue to Nif Bağları, a family-owned wine producer in the hills outside Izmir, for a Farm-to-Table vineyard lunch. Later, arrive in Izmir with time to explore the waterfront, visit the Kemeralti Bazaar or stop for a coffee in the Alsancak district before dinner with your Small Group.

Pergamon Theatre, Turkey
Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir (or similar accommodation)

Exterior of The Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir, Turkey
Lobby in The Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir, Turkey
Sky Bar in The Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir, Turkey
The Lobby at the Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir, Turkey
Guest Room at the Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir, Turkey
Aerial view of the Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir, Turkey

About the Hotel

Izmir, Turkey

The Swissotel Büyük Efes, the best hotel of Izmir, is centrally located and it is only minutes away from the promenade running along the Gulf of Izmir, offering spacious, comfortable rooms and luxury facilities.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Laundry
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Make Travel Matter Mtm Copmadam Workshop Ayvalik Turkey
Visit the Copmadam Workshop in Ayvalik

Visit the Copmadam workshop, where one-of-a-kind items are made from recycled packaging, creating employment opportunities for local women. Your vi...

See More
Included in Trip

Make Travel Matter

Authentic Dining Nif Bagları Farm To Table Lunch in Izmir, Turkey
Nif Bağları Farm-to-Table Lunch

Share a Farm-to-table lunch at Nif Bağları, a family-owned wine producer in the foothills near Izmir. Walk through the vines and learn how the land...

See More
Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 4

Ancient Ephesus

Travel to Selçuk for a visit to Ephesus, walking along ancient streets lined with monumental remains from the city’s Roman period. Continue to the House of the Virgin Mary, a small shrine above Selçuk visited by pilgrims. Later, learn about Turkish carpet weaving through a closer look at materials, natural dyes and knotting techniques. Arrive at a traditional coffee shop, learning the basics of tavla (backgammon) before sitting down for a game over Turkish coffee. Continue to İzmir for the night, where you could join an Optional Experience for dinner on the seafront promenade, sharing seafood and meze with drinks.

Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir (or similar accommodation)

Exterior of The Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir, Turkey
Lobby in The Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir, Turkey
Sky Bar in The Swissotel Grand Efes Izmir, Turkey
The Lobby at the Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir, Turkey
Guest Room at the Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir, Turkey
Aerial view of the Swissotel Grand Efes in Izmir, Turkey

About the Hotel

Izmir, Turkey

The Swissotel Büyük Efes, the best hotel of Izmir, is centrally located and it is only minutes away from the promenade running along the Gulf of Izmir, offering spacious, comfortable rooms and luxury facilities.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Laundry
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Ephesus, Turkey
Ephesus Archaeological Museum Visit

Visit the Archaeological museum housing many of the artifacts from Ephesus.Explore the Ephesus Archaeological Museum and come face to face with the...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Old Ruin Celsus Library Ephesus, Turkey
Ephesus City Tour

Walk through Ephesus with a Local Expert, following the Arcadian Way into the heart of the Roman city. You’ll stand before the Library of Celsus, t...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Backgammon Lesson Izmir Turkey
Backgammon Lesson at a Traditional Turkish Coffee House 

Join a backgammon lesson in a traditional Turkish coffee shop, learning the basic rules of tavla, a game played in Anatolia since Ottoman times. Si...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 5

The Pools of Pamukkale

Travel inland to Pamukkale, known for its white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Explore the site with your Travel Director, visiting the ruins of ancient Hierapolis, including the Roman theater and the remains of streets, tombs and bathhouses. See the pools that still flow across the terraces today. Later, check in to your hotel, the Doğa Thermal Health Spa, which draws its water from the same geothermal sources. You’ll have time to unwind in the thermal pools, try a traditional hammam or explore the wider spa facilities before dinner with your Small Group.

Ancient Ruins in Hierapolis Pamukkale, Turkey
Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale (or similar accommodation)

Lobby in The Dogma Thermal Health and Spa Denizli Pamukkale, Turkey
Lobby in The Dogma Thermal Health and Spa Denizli Pamukkale, Turkey

About the Hotel

Pamukkale, Turkey

A hotel which is only a few minutes drive away from the chalk-white limestone terraces and from Hierapolis archeological site. Its mineral-rich thermal waters make your stay an incredible one.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • Room Service
  • Spa
  • Gym
  • Pool

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Travertine Pools Pamukkale, Turkey
See the Travertine Pools at Pamukkale

Walk along the travertine pools at Pamukkale, where thermal waters have created white limestone terraces across the hillside. You’ll see how the ca...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 6

The Underground City and Cappadocia

Travel into central Turkey, following a route once used by traders and travelers on the Silk Road. Stop at the Sultanhani Caravanserai, a fortified roadside inn built in the 13th century to shelter caravans. Later, explore the underground city of Saratlı, where early communities carved out homes, storage areas and passageways beneath the ground. Arrive in Ürgüp in the early evening and settle into your hotel before dinner with your Small Group.

Uchisar Castle Cappadocia, Turkey
DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia (or similar accommodation)

Exterior of the Double Tree by Hilton Avanos Cappadocia, Turkey
Lobby of the Double Tree by Hilton Avanos Cappadocia, Turkey

About the Hotel

Istanbul, Turkey

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Avanos is the perfectly located hotel for travelers to experience the culture and heritage of the local area, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites and countless natural wonders. Plunge into the indoor or outdoor pool or indulge in a traditional Turkish bath at the hotel's spa.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Anatolia Seljuk Caravanserai in Anatolia, Turkey
Seljuk Caravanserai Visit

Step inside the Sultanhani Caravanserai, built in 1229 to support traders and travelers crossing the Anatolian plain. See how the space was designe...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Saratli Underground City, Saratli, Turkey
Saratli Underground City

Explore the underground city of Saratlı, where tunnels, rooms and passageways were carved out to provide shelter and storage. You’ll walk through t...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 7

The Cappadocia Experience

Start the day in Göreme, the heart of Cappadocia. You may choose to rise early for an Optional Experience to watch the region’s hot air balloons lift at sunrise. Later, explore the rock-cut churches of the Göreme Open-Air Museum, with frescoes that date back to the 10th century. Continue to Paşabağ Valley to see the region’s fairy chimneys and former cave dwellings. In the afternoon, meet a Cappadocian local who will show you their cave house and share how daily life has shifted over the decades. The day ends with a performance by the whirling dervishes before dinner in a local restaurant.

Sightseeing in Cappadocia, Turkey
DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia (or similar accommodation)

Exterior of the Double Tree by Hilton Avanos Cappadocia, Turkey
Lobby of the Double Tree by Hilton Avanos Cappadocia, Turkey

About the Hotel

Istanbul, Turkey

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Avanos is the perfectly located hotel for travelers to experience the culture and heritage of the local area, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites and countless natural wonders. Plunge into the indoor or outdoor pool or indulge in a traditional Turkish bath at the hotel's spa.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights City View Goreme, Turkey
Göreme City Tour

Explore the rock-cut churches of Göreme, carved into the soft volcanic rock of Cappadocia. Inside, you’ll see early Christian frescoes that have su...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Insight Experiences Cave House​, Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia Cave House Visit

Step inside a traditional cave house and meet a local Cappadocian who has lived there for decades. Hear how the home was shaped, how it has changed...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Experiences

Authentic Dining Whirling Dervishes, Cappadocia, Turkey
Sema Performance and Cappadocia Restaurant Visit 

Experience a Sema ceremony performed by the whirling dervishes, part of the Mevlevi Sufi tradition. You’ll watch the ritual unfold through music, m...

See More
Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 8

Ankara

Begin in Avanos, a town on the Kızılırmak River known for its pottery traditions. Learn about the craft and see how local clay is worked and shaped before firing. Continue on to Ankara, Turkey’s capital and the center of the modern republic. Visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, often referred to as the Hittite Museum, to see key finds from Anatolia’s early cultures. Then visit Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey and the Republic’s first President. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps head up to Ankara Castle for views across the city, explore the lanes of Hamamönü’s restored Ottoman-era quarter, or spend longer in Ulus around the historic center.

Anitkabir, Ankara, Turkey
Ankara HiltonSA (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Ankara HiltonSA (or similar accommodation)

Lobby and bar area of the Hilton Ankara, Turkey
Lobby of the Hilton Ankara, Turkey
Bar in the Hilton Ankara, Turkey

About the Hotel

Ankara, Turkey

This most popular centrally located hotel of Turkey’s capital is within walking distance to some of the city's most popular restaurants, bars, cafes, shopping centers and embassies. Its rooms have panoramic views of Ankara and all offer all kinds of comfort a modern hotel should have.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Avanos Pottery Making Avanos, Turkey
Avanos Pottery Making Lesson

Visit a pottery studio in Avanos, a town on the Kızılırmak River with a clay-working tradition that dates back to Hittite times. Watch how red rive...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Mausoleum of Ataturk Ankara, Turkey
Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara

Visit Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey and the Republic’s first President. You’ll walk through the cerem...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 9

To Istanbul

Leave Ankara for Istanbul, returning to the city where your journey began. On arrival, join a Bosphorus cruise to see Istanbul from the water, traveling between Europe and Asia as you pass Ottoman palaces, neighborhood mosques and busy quays along both shores. In the evening, explore at your own pace. You might walk through Karaköy and across the Galata Bridge, follow İstiklal Caddesi’s shops and cafes, or head towards the Spice Bazaar and Eminönü’s ferry piers.

Istanbul Skyline at Sunset, Turkey
Canopy by Hilton Istanbul (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Canopy by Hilton Istanbul (or similar accommodation)

exterior-canopy-hilton-istanbul-turkey
Bar 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Reception Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Bar Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Reception 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Room 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Room Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
outside-lounge-canopy-hilton-istanbul-turkey

About the Hotel

Istanbul, Turkey

Stay at Canopy by Hilton Istanbul, your hotel in Beyoğlu near Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue. Housed in a restored building first constructed in 1830 as the Mkhitaryan Armenian School, the hotel also includes a wine bar set within a 150-year-old cistern.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Gym
  • Room Service
  • Concierge

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Istanbul Cruise Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Cruise along the Bosphorus, the strait that links the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. You’ll watch ferries, fishing boats and cargo ships share ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 10

Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire

Spend your final full day exploring Istanbul’s historic peninsula. Start at the Blue Mosque, known for its six minarets and interior Iznik tiles, then cross the Hippodrome, the former chariot-racing ground of Constantinople. Continue to Hagia Sophia with Insight Choice: select the Hagia Sophia History Digital Experience, outlining its shift from basilica to mosque and museum, or visit Hagia Sophia itself with your Local Expert. Later, visit Topkapi Palace, once the seat of Ottoman sultans, and walk the covered streets of the Grand Bazaar. In the evening, share a final dinner with your Small Group and Travel Director as your journey through Turkey comes to a close.

Canopy by Hilton Istanbul (or similar accommodation) View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Canopy by Hilton Istanbul (or similar accommodation)

exterior-canopy-hilton-istanbul-turkey
Bar 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Reception Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Bar Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Reception 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Room 2 Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
Room Canopy Hilton Istanbul Turkey
outside-lounge-canopy-hilton-istanbul-turkey

About the Hotel

Istanbul, Turkey

Stay at Canopy by Hilton Istanbul, your hotel in Beyoğlu near Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue. Housed in a restored building first constructed in 1830 as the Mkhitaryan Armenian School, the hotel also includes a wine bar set within a 150-year-old cistern.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Gym
  • Room Service
  • Concierge

Style

  • Contemporary
Top Rated Highlights Turkish Lamps the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul City Tour

Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula with your Local Expert. You’ll move between the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and the former palace complex of ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Insight Choice Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey
Visit Hagia Sophia

Visit Hagia Sophia with your Local Expert. You’ll step beneath the central dome and see how elements from its time as a Byzantine basilica and as a...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Authentic Dining Turkish Pide, Istanbul, Turkey​
Istanbul Dinner 

Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant with your Small Group and Travel Director.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 11

Farewell Istanbul

our journey through Turkey comes to an end in Istanbul. After breakfast, take a moment to say goodbye to your Travel Director and Small Group, reflecting on the days spent traveling together, before transferring to the airport for your onward travel.

Blue Mosque Istanbul, Turkey
Departure Transfer Arrive at Istanbul International Airport (IST) at 06:00, 12:00
Included Meals Breakfast

Select your date

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Definite Departure
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Special Departure

Special Departure

Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Top Rated Highlights
Visit Anzac Cove in Gallipoli

Visit ANZAC Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula, the landing site for Australian and New Zealand forces on 25 April 1915. The site remains the focus of...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Visit the Trojan Horse in Troy

Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.

Included in Trip
Make Travel Matter
Visit the Copmadam Workshop in Ayvalik

Visit the Copmadam workshop, where one-of-a-kind items are made from recycled packaging, creating employment opportunities for local women. Your vi...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Ephesus Archaeological Museum Visit

Visit the Archaeological museum housing many of the artifacts from Ephesus.Explore the Ephesus Archaeological Museum and come face to face with the...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Ephesus City Tour

Walk through Ephesus with a Local Expert, following the Arcadian Way into the heart of the Roman city. You’ll stand before the Library of Celsus, t...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Backgammon Lesson at a Traditional Turkish Coffee House 

Join a backgammon lesson in a traditional Turkish coffee shop, learning the basic rules of tavla, a game played in Anatolia since Ottoman times. Si...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
See the Travertine Pools at Pamukkale

Walk along the travertine pools at Pamukkale, where thermal waters have created white limestone terraces across the hillside. You’ll see how the ca...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Seljuk Caravanserai Visit

Step inside the Sultanhani Caravanserai, built in 1229 to support traders and travelers crossing the Anatolian plain. See how the space was designe...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Saratli Underground City

Explore the underground city of Saratlı, where tunnels, rooms and passageways were carved out to provide shelter and storage. You’ll walk through t...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Göreme City Tour

Explore the rock-cut churches of Göreme, carved into the soft volcanic rock of Cappadocia. Inside, you’ll see early Christian frescoes that have su...

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Experiences
Cappadocia Cave House Visit

Step inside a traditional cave house and meet a local Cappadocian who has lived there for decades. Hear how the home was shaped, how it has changed...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Avanos Pottery Making Lesson

Visit a pottery studio in Avanos, a town on the Kızılırmak River with a clay-working tradition that dates back to Hittite times. Watch how red rive...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara

Visit Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Turkey and the Republic’s first President. You’ll walk through the cerem...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Cruise along the Bosphorus, the strait that links the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. You’ll watch ferries, fishing boats and cargo ships share ...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Istanbul City Tour

Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula with your Local Expert. You’ll move between the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and the former palace complex of ...

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Visit Hagia Sophia

Visit Hagia Sophia with your Local Expert. You’ll step beneath the central dome and see how elements from its time as a Byzantine basilica and as a...

See More
Included in Trip

About this trip

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Authentic Dining

7 Dinners, 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch

Istanbul Dinner

Meet your Travel Director and your small group for your first dinner together in Istanbul, marking the start of your journey through Turkey.

Nif Bağları Farm-to-Table Lunch

Share a Farm-to-table lunch at Nif Bağları, a family-owned wine producer in the foothills near Izmir. Walk through the vines and learn how the land is used, then sit down to seasonal dishes made with produce grown on the property, served in the vineyard setting.

Sema Performance and Cappadocia Restaurant Visit 

Experience a Sema ceremony performed by the whirling dervishes, part of the Mevlevi Sufi tradition. You’ll watch the ritual unfold through music, movement and costume, in a form of worship still practised across Turkey today.

Istanbul Dinner 

Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant with your Small Group and Travel Director.

Hand-Picked Hotels

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service and superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

Canopy by Hilton Istanbul
Kolin Hotel
Swissotel Büyük Efes
Doğa Thermal Health & Spa
DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos
Ankara HiltonSA

Low Deposit & Flexible Booking Low Deposit from $200 + no change fees See flexible booking terms >

Best Value Why touring is the easiest way to travel Learn more >

Current Entry Requirements Check your destination View Entry Guide >

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Official Language(s) in Turkey: Turkish
  • Currency used in Turkey: The Lira (₺)
  • Capital City: Ankara
  • Time Zone(s) in Turkey: Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Twin Room All listed pricing in the brochure and website is per person based on two people sharing a twin room (a room with 2 twin size beds). A double bed can be requested at time of booking if preferred.

Solo Supplement If you are traveling alone and require a single room, there will be an additional Solo Room Supplement added to your price.

Triple Room Rooms that sleep 3 people are available on some itineraries. The third bed is typically a pull out or cot.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Turkey has a diverse climate due to its vast size and varied topography. The coastal regions, particularly the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, have a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Inland areas experience a more continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters with significant temperature variations. The eastern regions, such as Eastern Anatolia, have a harsher climate with cold winters and mild summers. The Black Sea region has a temperate climate with high rainfall throughout the year. The central and southeastern parts of Turkey have a semi-arid to arid climate with hot, dry summers and relatively mild winters.

Passport, visa, and entry requirements for Turkey for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: You do not need a visa to enter Turkey
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Shengbai Zhang
Review date: Monday, January 5, 2026
Service
Vacation
It was wonderful and certainly one of the best vacations I have ever had.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We’re delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience and that your holiday with us ranks among your very best. We hope to welcome you back again soon.
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Delia
Review date: Sunday, September 28, 2025
Service
Booking with GET was easy to do. I've booked with them before without any problems.
Vacation
Turkey is an amazing country. Insight Travel went far and beyond my expectations. We had a fantastic guide! The hotels, the food the the experience were awesome!
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your feedback. We're pleased to hear that booking with GET was straightforward and that you've had positive experiences with them in the past. It's great to know that Turkey exceeded your expectations and that Insight Vacations provided a fantastic Travel Director, along with excellent hotels, food, and overall experience. Thank you for travelling with us, and we hope to welcome you on another memorable journey in the future.
Friday, December 12, 2025
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, September 22, 2019
Service
Excellent service
Vacation
Very well organized with excellent travel director and driver. Everything was perfect
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