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Walking the Lycian Way trail in Turkey - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
Walking the Lycian Way trail in Turkey
Experience the unique landscape of Cappadocia - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
Experience the unique landscape of Cappadocia
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul
The Library of Celsus in Ephesus - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
The Library of Celsus in Ephesus  | Erin Williams
The proud history of the Anzac's at Gallipoli, Turkey - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
The proud history of the Anzac's at Gallipoli, Turkey  | Ian Williams
The famous spice markets in Istanbul - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
The famous spice markets in Istanbul  | Erin Williams
Inside the breathtaking Blue Mosque columns, Istanbul - Best of Turkey, Türkiye/Turkey
Inside the breathtaking Blue Mosque columns, Istanbul  | Richard I'Anson

Best of Turkey

Ancient wonders, coastal trails, and the rich layers of Turkey’s history

Türkiye/Turkey
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 13 reviews

14 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: BOT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 14 Days
Activities
  • Day Walking
Accommodation
  • 13 nights hotel
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 13 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
2 / 10

Adventure touring

Carbon Footprint  

48kg of CO2-e PP per day

(628kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Hike from the abandoned village of Kayaköy to the turquoise lagoon of Ölüdeniz, and experience the charm of coastal towns like Fethiye and Kas
  • Visit Gallipoli and Troy, reflecting on ancient legends and modern courage
  • Explore the ancient cities of Ephesus and Hierapolis, where Roman roads and marble temples reveal the grandeur of past civilisations
  • Journey into Cappadocia’s surreal landscape, discovering its cave dwellings and rock carved churches
  • Discover Istanbul’s iconic landmarks - Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar

Overview

Turkey is a land of striking contrasts, from the surreal rock formations of Cappadocia to ancient coastal ruins and vibrant city bazaars.

This 14 day guided tour reveals the full breadth of Turkey’s cultural and natural heritage. Discover Istanbul, taking in the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar - a feast for the senses and a glimpse into the city’s imperial past.

Cruise the clear waters off the Mediterranean coast at Kekova, stopping to swim, visit an ancient sunken city, and wander through quiet harbour towns scattered with Lycian tombs. Walk through the ruins of Troy and Ephesus and reflect at the moving memorials of Gallipoli.

The tour includes four walking days, with trails ranging from 2 to 5 hours, through forested coastlines and the sculpted valleys of Cappadocia, making this tour a perfect blend of cultural immersion, active travel and natural beauty.

Itinerary

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If you are arriving in Istanbul today, you will be met at Istanbul Airport (IST) and transferred to the group hotel. Please exit out of Gate 8 from the terminal building where you will meet your transfer driver outside. Rest of the day at leisure.

Meals: Nil

Meet with your tour guide after breakfast at your hotel's reception at around 9:00am/9:30am. An exciting day of discovery as your guide introduces you to Istanbul's famous sites; all are close to the old part of town - Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Covered Bazaar, and Binbirdirek Cistern. Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, was the hub of the Ottoman Empire, and many of the grand buildings of this period are present today. The markets too, would be little changed from early times, a chaotic mix of goods and wares brought by people near and far to trade. Foods, clothing, jewellery, leather goods can be found at reasonable prices if you bargain. Late afternoon is at your leisure.

Meals: B

Today we leave Istanbul and drive to Gallipoli (Gelibolu) located on the Dardanelles Peninsula. This is a moving place and one cannot help but wonder at the tragedies that occurred in such a stunning location. We wander the national park housing many relics of the naval and land battles that took place in 1915 during World War One. Amongst other places, we visit Anzac Cove, the site of the first bungled ANZAC landing and Lone Pine, the largest graveyard memorial to those buried in unmarked graves or at sea. Then we take the ferry across to Canakkale for overnight. Transfer Time: 5/6 h; Transfer Distance: 345 km.

Meals: B

Today we leave Canakkale and drive to Selcuk. Along the way we visit the famous site of Troy. This archaeological site is believed to be a series of cities built in succession and is the site of the Trojan War. With a little imagination it is not too difficult to establish what the city, now UNESCO World Heritage listed, would have been like during its peak. We continue to Selcuk for overnight. Transfer Time: 6/7 h; Transfer Distance: 395 km.

Meals: B

Today we visit the ancient city of Ephesus. With the exception of Pompeii, Ephesus is the largest and best-preserved ancient city around the Mediterranean. The first half of our morning at this exceptional site will be with our guide who will bring to life the various rooms and buildings, and following this there will be ample time to further absorb the site at your leisure. After visiting Ephesus, we drive to Pamukkale for overnight. Transfer Time: 3/4 h; Transfer Distance: 190 km.

Meals: B

After breakfast we explore Pamukkale. The travertines form shallow pools supported by stalactites created by lime deposits from thermal waters that have cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years. The resulting myriad of pools and terraces is extraordinary. As the water overflows from the pools, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that, from afar, resemble cotton or snow. White pools are full with hot-spring water that is said to have healing powers for circulation and digestive systems. Just next to Pamukkale are the ruins of Hierapolis, built in the 2nd Century B.C., and later became a health centre. In the afternoon we leave Pamukkale, and drive to Fethiye for overnight. Transfer Time: 4/5 h; Transfer Distance: 230 km.

Meals: B

The beginning of our hike is in Kayakoy, originally named “Karmilassos”. This is an old Greek village that was given up at the beginning of the 20th century. After the visit to the village we walk for about 2 to 3 hours along a forest trail which offers a splendid panorama. We walk directly down to the crystal clear waters and beaches of Oludeniz ‘Blue’ Lagoon before our transfer to Kas for overnight. Walking time: 2/3 h; Walking Distance: 6/7 km; Ascent: 200m; Descent: 300m (Kayakoy – Oludeniz Lagoon). Transfer Time: 2/3 h; Transfer Distance: 110 km.

Meals: B

In the morning, a short transfer to the Kekova area. Today we will enjoy the turquoise waters of Mediterranean by boat. We start cruising to the village of Kale where we plan to explore the ruins of ancient Simena and the medieval Byzantine fortress set above the village. Further time will be spent on Kekova Island where the shoreline boasts Byzantine foundations and ruins partly submerged in the sea. This is known as the sunken city. Following a swim and exploration of the sunken city by land we continue on to Ucagiz, an unspoilt fishing village with white washed houses dotted with Lycian tombs. Return to Kas for overnight.

Meals: B

We leave Kas after breakfast and drive to Antalya. Along the way we visit the township of Demre, famous for the ruins of Myra with its Lycian rock-hewn tombs and a Roman theatre. In the afternoon we continue onto the beautifully located ruined Lycian city of Phaselis. We overnight in the Mediterranean town of Antalya. Transfer Time: 3/4 h; Transfer Distance: 190 km.

Meals: B

After breakfast, we drive to Konya to visit the Whirling Dervishes Museum. Known to the west as the Whirling Dervishes, the members of the Mevlevi order had a prolific impact throughout the Ottoman Empire in classical poetry, calligraphy, visual arts and music. Afterwards we visit Sultanhani, the largest Caravanserai in the country. Overnight in Cappadocia. Transfer Time: 7/8 h; Transfer Distance: 560 km.

Meals: B

Cappadocia is an extraordinary geological area in central Turkey - reminiscent of a lunar landscape pitted with small volcanic craters, vast barren plateaus and steep jagged cliffs. Only an occasional oasis laying low in semi fertile valleys fed by mineral laden volcanic soil breaks its moonlike landscape. Several centuries ago the Christians hid from encroaching Arab, Persian and Roman forces by building underground cave-like cities linked by secret tunnels. Only when it was safe to surface did the people tend to their fields above. Some of the cities descend some 21 stories. We explore the Museum of Goreme, one of the area's most interesting sights with some of the best preserved frescoes in Cappadocia. Afterwards, we start walking in the Meskendir Valley, which is full with old cave houses and complexes from the old Christian civilisation. Next we cross over to the beautiful Red and Rose Valleys with its spectacular formations and colours where, time permitting, there is an opportunity to visit some hidden churches. Afterwards, optional visits can be made to a pottery centre to learn the 5000 yr old traditions of this craft; and to a carpet workshop, where the knotted or flat woven (kilim) carpets are among the best known art forms produced by the Turks. There are environmental, sociological, economic, and religious reasons for the art of carpet weaving among the Turkish people. Some of these are incorporated into the colourful carpet designs. Walking time: 4/5 h; Walking Distance: 9 km; Ascent: 85m; Descent: 135m (Meskendir Valley; Red & Rose Valley).

Meals: B

This morning we drive to Ihlara, enroute we visit the incredible underground city of Derinkuyu. Then we visit Ihlara Canyon area for a beautiful half day walk. Ihlara is one of the best hiking areas in the region and home to a river that has gouged a 100m vertical gorge through this valley. Here the trees, birds and acoustics of water offer a very pleasant walk as well as a good taste of ancient Christian life. We will have time to visit a couple of churches and have lunch at Belisirma before we visit the Selime Monastery, one of the largest in the region. Return to Cappadocia for overnight. Walking time: 3/4 h; Walking Distance: 8 km (Ihlara - Belisirma). Transfer time: 1/2 h; Transfer Distance: 95 km.

Meals: B

After breakfast, we continue our exploration of this fascinating region. First we climb Uchisar Fortress, which is the highest point of Goreme and has panoramic views of the surrounding area. Next we walk in the White Valley or ‘Love Valley’ as it is sometimes known. We continue to Cavusin, from where we start our walk amongst fascinating rock formations and with magnificent views to the fairy chimneys at Monk’s Valley (Pasabaglari) down below. Our walk concludes with a visit to the Zelve Monastery Valley and open air museum. Next we drive to the interesting triple capped fairy chimneys in Pasabaglari. Afterwards there is the option to enjoy a traditional Turkish bath or discover local handicrafts. Farewell Dinner with a local family in Cappadocia. Walking time: 2/3 h; Walking Distance: 6 km; Ascent: 0m; Descent: 280m; (White Valley). Walking time: 2/3 h; Walking Distance: 4 km; Ascent: 60m; Descent: 70m; (Cavusin – Zelve - Pasabaglari).

Meals: B,D

Trip arrangements conclude this morning after breakfast, with departure transfer from Cappadocia to Kayseri or Nevsehir airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

8 scheduled departures between 11 Apr 2027 and 7 Nov 2027.

  • Departs 11 Apr 2027 – ends 24 Apr 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 2 May 2027 – ends 15 May 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 13 Jun 2027 – ends 26 Jun 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 11 Jul 2027 – ends 24 Jul 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 8 Aug 2027 – ends 21 Aug 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 5 Sep 2027 – ends 18 Sep 2027 (14 days)
  • … and 2 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 13 nights in 2 to 3 star hotels on a twinshare basis with ensuite bathrooms
  • 13 breakfasts and 1 dinner
  • English speaking guide throughout
  • Day cruise Kekova Islands
  • Private transportation
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed
  • Arrival transfer from Istanbul Ataturk International Airport (IST) on Day 1 only
  • Departure transfer from Cappadocia to Kayseri or Nevsehir airport on Day 14 only

Not included

  • Airfares
  • Travel Insurance - compulsory
  • Visa if applicable
  • Arrival transfers (from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, or on any day other than Day 1) and departure transfers (on any day other than Day 14) - ask us for additional costs
  • Additional sightseeing, entrance fees, transport or meals
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as beverages, laundry, etc.
  • Tips

Reviews (13)

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Itinerary is good except that it would be good to have one more day at Istanbul.

Tour guide and the driver are helpful , knowledgeable and the tour guide Suat is delightful to deal with.

Rusli|NSW Australia
27 May 2025
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The World Expeditions team made our Turkey Adventure holiday an amazing and immersive experience. The combination of history, culture, natural beauty and cuisine made the holiday memorable. So grateful to Suat and Recep in particular - what a team!

Therese|NSW Australia
27 May 2025
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I have been on 3 World Expeditions trips, Laos and Cambodia, Madagascar and Turkey. Each one has been superb. The team which helps arrange the tour are really helpful and give excellent advise and then the guides and drivers are truly outstanding. This is the best tour group I have used and all my tour companions agreed that they are outstanding.

Fiona Paulus|London, United Kingdom
18 Jun 2024
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I want to let you know how pleased I was with all the arrangements your team made. Our guide was the best - very knowledgeable and skilled, kind, enthusiastic, caring, and attentive to our wishes. Both our drivers were great, and the buses deluxe. I loved the variety of accommodations, and the comfort and hospitality of each. There were many highlights, and we all really enjoyed the sights and sites of Turkey, the warm people and the excellent food!

S Thompson|Wisconsin USA
13 Jun 2024
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What a brilliant tour. Everything from the accommodation, food, transport and archaeological sites were perfect. Our guide, Tolga was exceptional with his knowledge of history, bird life, plants and his ability to make our trip run smoothly. Turkish hospitality was never ending. A wonderful experience.

Gael Jarvis|Witheren, QLD Australia
11 Jun 2024
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The itinerary was excellent, the accommodation very good, and the guide fantastic.

Graeme Nyberg|Kew, VIC Australia
5 Jun 2024
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Fantastic trip. We were shown a very informative and interesting view of turkey

Fiona Legge|Kew, VIC Australia
2 Jun 2024
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The Best Of Turkey is a visual splendor

David Brierley|Blackburn, VIC Australia
31 May 2024
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We had a great guide , who was very knowledgeable and energetic, also a very helpful and competent driver, we saw and did a lot in 14 days touring western Turkey, a highlight was having a meal on our last night with a local family

Margaret Neill|Mission Bay, Auckland
12 Oct 2022

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?Why Book With Us

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

  • We've been providing active and immersive adventures since 1975.
  • Our local guides have in-depth knowledge of the region, ensuring a richer understanding of the culture, history, and environment.
  • Full pre trip support from your local office to help with flight booking, travel insurance and any of those pre trip queries you might have.
  • We offer smaller group sizes, ensuring more personalised attention and authentic interactions with the destination.

Responsible Travel

Regenerative Travel Project

At AMP Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Romania, rescued brown bears are given a second chance to live as they should—free to roam, forage and explore within a protected forest environment. The sanctuary provides lifelong care for bears rescued from captivity, offering a safe haven for animals that can no longer survive in the wild. Support for this project helps provide nutritious food, expert veterinary care and ongoing habitat management, ensuring every bear can live in dignity and comfort. The sanctuary also plays an important role in raising awareness about wildlife welfare, ethical tourism and the lasting impacts of animal exploitation.

Your support will help care for Jimmy, one of the sanctuary’s rescued residents. For 11 years, Jimmy was confined to a small concrete cage at a bread factory, deprived of the opportunity to behave naturally. Since his rescue, he has experienced the freedom of a natural forest habitat for the first time, feeling the earth beneath his paws and living alongside other rescued bears. By contributing to Jimmy’s ongoing care, you are helping transform the life of an individual animal while supporting the broader mission of protecting bears from cruelty and promoting compassionate wildlife conservation.

Guaranteeing A Great Türkiye/Turkey Trip

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