Treasures of Turkey
Treasures of Turkey
This tour is no longer available, here are some similar tours:
Tour Overview
Descend into a local resident’s cave house in Cappadocia, uncover Ephesus’ finest archaeological sites, and visit the UNESCO-listed Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Istanbul: Delve into the captivating history of Hagia Sophia through an immersive digital experience.
- Istanbul: Experience the rich cultural and religious heritage of Istanbul at Hagia Sophia.
Top Rated Highlights
- Istanbul: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, where you'll pass Ottoman palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
- Bursa: On your orientation with your Travel Director visit the town’s mosques, bazaars and famous Silk Market.
- Cumalikizik: Visit the over 700 year-old village to get glimpse into what Ottoman villages away from the capital looked like.
- Ankara: Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk and discover the mysterious Hittite civilisation.
- Ankara: Discover Roman and Byzantine heritage by visiting the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Mausoleum of Ataturk.
- Goreme: With your Local Expert, explore the underground cities, rock-cut churches, fairy-tale chimneys and the Pasabag Valley.
- : Visit the narrow passages and interconnecting rooms of this Stone Age underground city dug out from the hills and built to block invaders and defend against attacks.
- : Learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos.
- Konya: Visit a well preserved Seljuk Caravanserai.
- Konya: Accompanied by your Local Expert, visit the beautiful Mevlana Tekke museum for an insight into the mystic Whirling Dervishes. See the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret.
- Aspendos: Visit the world's best preserved Roman Theatre in Aspendos.
- Antalya: Visit the historic Old Town and wander through its charming narrow streets, discovering souvenir markets and sweeping sea views.
- Pamukkale: See the cascading Cotton Castle of milky white travertine pools and the ancient ruin of Hierapolis.
- Corinth: Visit the open-air Aphrodisias Museum, dedicated to Aphrodite, and see the well-preserved ancient city and statues.
- Ephesus: Walk the Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and Amphitheatre and visit the Palace of Knossos.
- Troy: Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.
- Troy: See the wooden Trojan Horse and hear about myths and legends connected to this UNESCO-listed archaeological site.
- Gallipoli: Pay your respects at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery.
- Istanbul: Visit the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Topkapi Palace, then explore the Grand Bazaar.
Make Travel Matter
Uchisar: Visit Uchisar Kadineli Restaurant, a women-owned establishment where women are empowered through employment and skills training. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Authentic Dining
Istanbul: Begin your travels savouring traditional flavours over dinner at a local restaurant.
Cappadocia: Watch a Whirling Dervishes performance and indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Istanbul: Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant.
Insight Choice
Istanbul: Delve into the captivating history of Hagia Sophia through an immersive digital experience.
Istanbul: Experience the rich cultural and religious heritage of Istanbul at Hagia Sophia.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Wyndham Levent
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Turkey. Your journey begins in vibrant Istanbul, the only city in the world that spans two continents: Europe and Asia, where a representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner.
Day 2: Bosphorus Cruise and Bursa
Location: Istanbul, Bursa
Accommodation: Mövenpick Bursa Hotel and Thermal Spa.
Accommodation Name: Mövenpick Bursa and Thermal Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a cruise along Bosphorus Strait, passing Ottoman palaces and fortresses along the waterfront of the old city. Later, leave Istanbul for Bursa, the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire, to visit the Green Mosque, the Grand Mosque and the Mausoleum complex.This evening, venture to a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 3: Cumalikizik and Gordion
Location: Cumalikizik, Gordion, Ankara
Accommodation: Ankara HiltonSA, Ankara.
Accommodation Name: Ankara HiltonSA
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day in the village of Cumalikizik, with its traditional wooden houses and narrow cobblestone streets. Then, head to Gordion, which was once the capital city of ancient Phrygia, as you make your way to Turkey’s modern capital, Ankara.
Day 4: Sophisticated Ankara
Location: Ankara, Cappadocia
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Sightseeing includes a visit to the Hittite Museum and the Mausoleum of Atatürk. Later, head to Avanos in Cappadocia. Famed for its unique geological formation, Cappadocia is a scenic delight with golden hills and panoramic views.
Day 5: The Underground Cities of Cappadocia Experience
Location: Göreme, Uçhisar, Pasabag Valley, Özkonak
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Göreme’s rock-hewn churches adorned with ancient wall paintings. Savour the flavours of Anatolia with a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Uçhisar Kadineli Restaurant. Continue to the Pasabag Valley and visit the underground city of Özkonak. Step into the home of a local Cappadocian living in an authentic cave house to discover their unique lifestyle, traditions, and family life. Witness a performance of Whirling Dervishes before dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6: Konya
Location: Avanos, Konya
Accommodation: Novotel Konya Hotel.
Accommodation Name: Novotel Konya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Learn more about traditional pottery making in Avanos before journeying along the famous Silk Road to visit a 13th-century caravanserai. Later, travel to Turkey’s most religious city, Konya. See the Karatay Medrese and Ince Minaret, and visit the Mevlana Museum.
Day 7: Through the Taurus Mountains
Location: Antalya
Accommodation: Akra Barut Antalya.
Accommodation Name: Akra Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take a scenic drive down the Taurus Mountains to Aspendos, an ancient city in Antalya province. Known for having the best-preserved Roman theatre anywhere in the world. Visit Antalya's pretty Old Town, with its souvenir markets and sweeping sea views.
Day 8: Antalya's Old Town
Location: Antalya
Accommodation: Akra Barut Antalya.
Accommodation Name: Akra Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to relax and enjoy the leisure facilities at your hotel. Alternatively, explore Antalya at your own pace.
Day 9: The Pools of Pamukkale
Location: Pamukkale
Accommodation: Doga Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale.
Accommodation Name: Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the Taurus Mountains to see the remains of the ancient city of Hierapolis. Next to the ruins, you can see the gleaming white travertine terraces of Pamukkale.
Day 10: Kusadasi
Location: Geyre, Kusadasi
Accommodation: Charisma De Luxe Hotel, Kusadasi.
Accommodation Name: Charisma De Luxe, Kusadasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your morning with a trip to the Temple of Aphrodite, dedicated to the goddess of love, beauty and fertility, in Geyre. Based in the ruins of the ancient city of Aphrodisias, it was the focal point of the city in its heyday. Arrive into the coastal resort of Kusadasi for an evening at leisure.
Day 11: Ancient Ephesus
Location: Ephesus
Accommodation: Charisma De Luxe Hotel, Kusadasi.
Accommodation Name: Charisma De Luxe, Kusadasi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Discover one of the world's finest archaeological sites, Ephesus. Walk through the colonnaded Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and the huge Amphitheatre, before visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, situated above the Ephesus ruins and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
Day 12: Troy and Çanakkale Relaxed Start
Location: Troy, Çanakkale
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale, Canakkale.
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Homer’s city of Troy, the focal point of the Trojan war and the backdrop to one of history’s most famous love stories, you can find a replica of the mighty Trojan Horse beside the city’s walls. After some time exploring, continue your journey to Çanakkale.
Day 13: Gallipoli and ANZAC Cove
Location: Gallipoli, Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Wyndham Levent
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Dardanelles Strait by ferry to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Located in the southern part of East Thrace, it was here that, for nine months during the Great War, Anzac troops fought, in an attempt to gain control of the Dardanelles Strait. Learn more about these events as you visit Anzac Cove and pay your respects at the Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, return to Istanbul.
Day 14: Istanbul and the Ottoman Empire
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Wyndham Levent
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Sisli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the historic Blue Mosque and see the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held. Explore Hagia Sophia with Insight Choice. Choose between visiting Hagia Sophia History Digital Experience, or alternatively, visit Hagia Sophia, built in A.D. 537 and famous for its domed roof. Visit Topkapi Palace, perched above the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the primary inlet of the waterway. Enjoy the excitement of bargaining in the bustling Grand Bazaar. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Farewell Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to your newfound friends as your Treasures of Turkey journey comes to an end.
What's Included
-
Airport Transfer
A representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the hotel in Istanbul.
-
Bosphorus Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, passing Ottoman palaces, old mansions, and fortresses.
-
Guided Tours
Guided tours in various locations including Istanbul, Bursa, Ankara, Cappadocia, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Troy, Gallipoli, and more.
-
Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels throughout the tour, including Radisson Blu Sisli in Istanbul and Movenpick Bursa Hotel and Thermal Spa.
-
Meals
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 9 dinners are included in the tour.
-
Cultural Experiences
Experience local culture with activities such as a Whirling Dervishes performance and a visit to a traditional pottery workshop in Avanos.
-
Make Travel Matter Experience
Enjoy a meal at Uchisar Kadineli Restaurant, which provides employment for women in the village and supports their financial freedom.
What's Not Included
-
Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related expenses are not included in the tour package.
Dining Summary
- 9 Dinner (D)
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Insight Experiences
- Cappadocia: Join a Cappadocian local for a tour of their cave house to learn about their unique way of life.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy seamless transportation with airport transfers, a scenic Bosphorus cruise, and travel through Turkey's historic cities and landscapes, including a ferry crossing of the Dardanelles Strait.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Radisson Blu Sisli in Istanbul, Movenpick Bursa and Thermal Spa, Ankara HiltonSA, DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos in Cappadocia, Novotel Konya, Akra Antalya, Doga Thermal Health & Spa in Pamukkale, Charisma De Luxe in Kusadasi, and DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale.
Summary
- Travel by cruise along Bosphorus • Ride a ferry across the Dardanelles.
- Visit Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar in Istanbul • Grand Mosque, Green Mosque and Mausoleum in Bursa • Mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara • Pasabag Valley in Goreme • Mevlana Tekke Museum in Konya • Seljuk Caravanserai in Anatolia • Roman Theatre in Aspendos • Archaeological Museum in Ephesus • Troy • Asklepion in Pergamon • Gallipoli Peninsula.
- City tours of Goreme, Konya, Pergamon and Istanbul, all with Local Experts.
Check out our Q&As
-
What unique experiences are included in the Treasures of Turkey tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as an immersive digital experience at Hagia Sophia, a cruise on the Bosphorus, a visit to the underground cities of Cappadocia, and a performance of Whirling Dervishes. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to learn about traditional pottery making in Avanos and explore a cave house with a local in Cappadocia. ...more ...less
-
How does the tour support local communities?
The tour supports local communities through a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Uchisar Kadineli Restaurant, which provides employment for over 65 women from the village. The restaurant is owned by women and focuses on empowering them through various roles such as administrators, teachers, cooks, and waiters. ...more ...less
-
What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour visits numerous historical sites including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the ancient city of Ephesus, the Roman Theatre in Aspendos, and the ancient city of Troy. You will also explore the Gallipoli Peninsula and pay respects at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery. ...more ...less
-
What cultural activities are included in the tour?
Cultural activities on the tour include a visit to the Mevlana Museum in Konya, a tour of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and a Sema performance of Whirling Dervishes in Cappadocia. You will also have the chance to explore the traditional village of Cumalikizik and learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos. ...more ...less
-
What are some of the scenic highlights of the tour?
Scenic highlights of the tour include a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, the travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the fairy-tale chimneys of Cappadocia, and the sweeping sea views from Antalya's Old Town. The tour also includes a drive through the Taurus Mountains and visits to the picturesque Pasabag Valley. ...more ...less
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Treasures of Turkey
15 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey
Visiting: Istanbul, Bursa, Cumalikizik, Gordion, Ankara, Cappadocia, Göreme, Uçhisar, Pasabag Valley, Özkonak, Avanos, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale, Geyre, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Troy, Çanakkale, Gallipoli ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
I949ZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, History, Religion and Spiritual, Ruins-Archaeology
