Highlights of Turkey – 12 Days

Exploring the highlights of Turkey in a 12-day journey promises an immersive cultural experience. From the historic grandeur of Istanbul to the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, this itinerary showcases the country’s diverse offerings. Indulge in traditional cuisine, unwind on the Turkish Riviera, and customize your adventure with optional activities. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly getaway or a captivating exploration of Turkey’s rich heritage, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the mesmerizing wonders that await.

Key Points

• Explore the grand historic landmarks of Istanbul, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage.
• Discover the unique geological formations and underground cities of Cappadocia, offering a surreal landscape and hot air balloon experiences.
• Savor the flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine with 11 breakfast meals and 6 included lunches featuring regional specialties like kebabs and meze platters.
• Enjoy a family-friendly tour with complimentary admission for infants, activities catering to all ages, and accommodations for various dietary needs.
• Customize the 12-day itinerary with optional upgrades, such as a Hot Air Balloon Flight in Cappadocia and a land drive from Antalya to Cappadocia.

Discovering Istanbul’s Historic Gems

The tour in Istanbul begins with a captivating exploration of the city’s historic landmarks.

Visitors will enjoy the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent 6th-century Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque.

Next, they’ll wander through the opulent Topkapi Palace, once the seat of the Ottoman sultans.

The Blue Mosque, with its stunning interior and iconic six minarets, offers a serene respite.

The Basilica Cistern, an underground Byzantine water reservoir, showcases the city’s engineering prowess.

Throughout the journey, travelers gain insights into Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage and witness the seamless blend of ancient and modern influences.

Exploring the Enchanting City of Kusadasi

From the captivating history of Istanbul, the tour moves on to explore the enchanting city of Kusadasi.

Strategically situated on the Aegean coast, Kusadasi serves as a gateway to ancient wonders.

Strategically situated on the Aegean coast, Kusadasi serves as a gateway to ancient wonders.

Travelers will:

• Discover the ancient Greek and Roman ruins of Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the iconic Library of Celsus.

• Relax on the sun-kissed beaches, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

• Immerse in the vibrant local culture, browsing the lively bazaars and savoring authentic Turkish cuisine.

Kusadasi’s blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant energy makes it a must-visit destination on the 12-day Turkey tour.

Taking in Cappadocia’s Otherworldly Landscapes

What makes Cappadocia’s landscapes so captivating and otherworldly? The region’s unique geological formations, known as "fairy chimneys," are the result of volcanic eruptions and erosion over millennia.

These cone-shaped rock structures, some reaching up to 40 meters tall, dot the surreal terrain. Visitors can explore underground cities carved into the soft rock, hike through picturesque valleys, and witness the famous hot air balloons drifting over the lunar-like landscape at sunrise.

Cappadocia’s surreal beauty and historical significance make it a highlight of the 12-day Turkey tour, offering a chance to immerse in this truly enchanting destination.

Relaxing on the Turkish Riviera in Antalya

After exploring the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, the tour moves on to the stunning Turkish Riviera in Antalya.

Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Antalya offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Travelers can look forward to:

• Soaking up the sun on the area’s pristine beaches

• Discovering ancient Roman ruins, such as the magnificent Aspendos amphitheater

• Indulging in the region’s renowned cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties

With two nights in Antalya, the tour provides ample time to unwind and immerse in the relaxed coastal atmosphere of this Turkish gem.

Sailing the Turquoise Coast From Fethiye

As the tour reaches its final destination, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the stunning Turquoise Coast from the charming harbor town of Fethiye.

A full-day boat excursion takes visitors to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and the famous Blue Cave. Guests can spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and hiking to the ruins on St. Nicholas Island.

The tour includes a delightful lunch served on board, with beverages provided. This picturesque sailing adventure along the turquoise waters provides a serene conclusion to the 12-day exploration of Turkey’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Indulging in Mouth-Watering Turkish Cuisine

Travelers on this 12-day tour of Turkey are treated to a tantalizing culinary experience, savoring the rich flavors and vibrant diversity of traditional Turkish cuisine.

The tour includes:

• 11 breakfast meals, providing a sampling of Turkish breakfast staples like fresh-baked breads, cheeses, olives, and Turkish tea.

• 6 included lunch offerings, featuring regional specialties such as kebabs, meze platters, and hearty stews.

• Opportunities to explore local markets and sample street foods, allowing participants to fully enjoy the country’s vibrant food culture.

Throughout the journey, travelers delight in the complex spices, expertly grilled meats, and flavorful vegetable dishes that define the unique tastes of Turkey.

Hiking Through Butterfly Valley’s Natural Wonders

Nestled along the Turkish Riviera in Fethiye, Butterfly Valley is a breathtaking natural haven teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

As part of the 12-day tour, visitors can explore the valley’s hiking trails, which wind through lush vegetation and offer panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and the Aegean Sea.

The highlight is the chance to spot the valley’s namesake butterflies, which flutter among the wildflowers.

Hikers can also visit the remnants of St. Nicholas Island, uncovering the ruins and history of this ancient site.

The moderate difficulty trails make Butterfly Valley an accessible and rewarding experience for all travelers.

Uncovering the Ruins of St Nicholas Island

The ruins of St. Nicholas Island sit quietly amid the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera.

Amid the turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera, the ruins of St. Nicholas Island sit quietly.

Accessible only by boat, this historic site offers a glimpse into the island’s past.

Visitors can:

• Explore the remnants of a Byzantine monastery, including its stone walls and foundations.

• Discover inscriptions and carvings that hint at the island’s religious significance.

• Hike to the island’s highest point for panoramic views of the surrounding bays and coves.

While the island’s structures have weathered the centuries, the mystique of St. Nicholas Island continues to captivate all who venture there.

Enjoying the Convenience of Included Domestic Flights

Why settle for the hassle of booking separate domestic flights when a well-curated tour can handle that for you?

This Turkey tour includes two domestic flight tickets, allowing you to effortlessly travel between destinations. The flights are in economy class with a generous 25kg baggage allowance and 8kg cabin luggage, ensuring a seamless experience.

With airport transfers provided, you can sit back and enjoy the scenic landscapes as you move from Istanbul to Cappadocia and beyond.

This thoughtful inclusion eliminates the need to coordinate your own flights, making your Turkish adventure as convenient as it is memorable.

Experiencing the Optional Hot Air Balloon Adventure

For those seeking to elevate their Turkish adventure, the optional Hot Air Balloon Flight presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to soar over the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia.

This breathtaking experience allows travelers to:

• Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the ethereal rock formations and lunar-like terrain

• Enjoy a serene and tranquil bird’s-eye view of the region’s iconic fairy chimneys, valleys, and historic cave dwellings

• Capture stunning aerial photography and panoramic vistas to commemorate this unforgettable journey

While not included in the base tour package, the Hot Air Balloon Flight can be easily arranged for an additional cost, providing an unparalleled perspective of Cappadocia’s natural wonders.

Taking Advantage of Family-Friendly Amenities

Families traveling with young children will find the tour’s family-friendly amenities to be a valuable asset.

This 12-day journey across Turkey offers complimentary admission for infants aged 4 and under, making it an accessible option for families.

Plus, the tour’s activities, such as sunbathing, swimming, and exploring historical sites, cater to a wide range of ages, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.

The inclusion of vegetarian meal options and beverages during the boat trip also accommodates various dietary needs.

These thoughtful details contribute to making the tour a seamless and enjoyable experience for families.

Customizing Your Tour With Additional Upgrades

While the 12-day tour through Turkey offers a comprehensive itinerary, travelers may choose to further customize their experience through optional upgrades and add-ons.

For thrill-seekers, the Hot Air Balloon Flight in Cappadocia provides a unique perspective of the region’s stunning lunar landscape.

Those seeking a more personalized journey can opt for the land drive upgrade from Antalya to Cappadocia, allowing for additional stops and sightseeing along the way.

Plus, guests can request pre-post accommodation at the starting or ending points for added convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Length or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour length and itinerary can be customized. Travelers can work with the tour operator to extend the tour duration or modify the destinations and activities to suit their preferences and travel needs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy and Can I Get a Refund?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Refunds may be available depending on the cancellation policy, which should be confirmed with the customer service team prior to booking.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Entrance Fees or Activities?

The tour includes skip-the-line entry tickets to historical sites, but entrance fees are not covered in the tour price. Plus, the hot air balloon flight is an optional upgrade that incurs an additional cost. Children 8 and under get free entry to sites.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tour?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the boat tour. However, a light lunch with beverages is provided as part of the tour package. Outside food and drinks may be subject to limitations based on the boat’s policies.

Are There Any Discounts or Deals Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers group discounts for bookings of 4 or more travelers. The exact discount percentage varies depending on group size, but typically ranges from 5-10% off the per person rate. Interested customers should inquire with the customer service team for current group pricing details.

The Sum Up

The Highlights of Turkey tour offers a comprehensive 12-day journey that showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. From the historic grandeur of Istanbul to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, this itinerary provides a well-rounded exploration of Turkey’s most captivating destinations. Customizable options and family-friendly amenities ensure a seamless and memorable travel experience for all.