Wonders of Turkey - Small Group, Winter
Wonders of Turkey - Small Group, Winter
$2850
Wonders of Turkey - Small Group, Winter
11 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul
Visiting: Istanbul, Çanakkale, Troy, Ayvalik, Pergamon, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Ankara
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SW983ZM19
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Fall in love with Turkey on this 11-day guided tour. See Ephesus, an ancient city built in the 10th Century B.C. with an amphitheatre that once sat 24,000 people. Drive through the Maender River Valley to an organic farm, where you can walk the lush lands, then feast on fresh produce during a mouth-watering lunch. See the turquoise travertine pools in Pamukkale where ancient Romans used to soak — then dip into the spa at your hotel to indulge in its Turkish baths. Take a tour of a traditional cave house in Cappadocia with the local who lives there, then dine as you watch whirling dervishes dance nearby. Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, the resting place of the country’s first president, in Ankara. Travel to Istanbul, where you’ll see the infamous Blue Mosque before bargaining at the eclectic Grand Bazaar, which boasts more than 4,000 shops.
Top Rated Highlights
- Gallipoli: Pay your respects at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery.
- Troy: Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.
- Ephesus: Visit the Archaeological museum housing many of the artefacts from Ephesus.
- Ephesus: Discover one of the world's finest ancient sites. Led by your Local Expert, walk the Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and Amphitheatre and visit the Palace of Knossos.
- Pamukkale: See the cascading Cotton Castle of milky white travertine pools and the ancient ruin of Hierapolis.
- Konya: Visit a well preserved Seljuk Caravanserai.
- Saratli: Visit Saratli Underground city known for its fine arts architecture.
- Goreme: With your Local Expert, explore the underground cities, rock-cut churches, fairy-tale chimneys and the Pasabag Valley.
- : Learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos.
- Ankara: Discover the mysterious Hittite civilisation and visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk.
- Istanbul: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, where you'll pass Ottoman palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
- Istanbul: Visit the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. With your Local Expert, gain insight into the lives of the Ottoman Sultans during a visit to the fabulous Topkapi Palace. Then stroll through the Grand Bazaar.
Make Travel Matter
Ayvalik: Visit the Copmadam workshop, where one-of-a-kind items are made from recycled packaging, creating employment opportunities for local women. 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.
Nazilli: Head to a local organic farm where you will be treated to a farm-to-table lunch, made with the fresh local produce.
Cappadocia: Watch a spectacular Sema performance of Whirling Dervishes and discover the flavours of Cappadocia as you indulge in a regional dinner of colourful dishes.
Istanbul: Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent
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: Gallipoli, Anzac Cove And Troy
Location: Istanbul, Çanakkale, Troy, Çanakkale
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale Canakkale.
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale
Meals Included: Breakfast
Marvel at breathtaking coastal views as you make your way along the shores of the Sea of Marmara to historic Gallipoli. Located in the southern part of East Thrace, it was here that for nine months during the Great War, Anzac troops fought in an in an attempt to gain control of the Dardanelles Strait. Learn more about these events as you visit Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, join your group as you head from Eceabat across the sea to Çanakkale before arriving in the historic city of Troy, the focal point of the Trojan War and the backdrop to one of history’s most famous love stories, that of Paris and Helen of Troy, the face that launched 1000 ships. A replica of the mighty Trojan horse, which helped the Greeks capture the city in 1200 B.C., can be seen beside the city’s walls.
Day 3: Pergamon And Kusadasi
Location: Çanakkale, Ayvalik, Pergamon, Kusadasi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Charisma De Luxe, Kusadasi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Copmadam, a women's co-op turning recycled materials into unique items, and addressing women's employment issues. Continue on to Pergamon, once a powerful ancient Greek city, you’ll find the Asklepion temple here. A famous shrine and healing centre, it was built in honour of Asklepios, the god of medicine. After some time exploring, continue your journey to the coastal resort of Izmir.
Day 4: Ephesus - Kusadasi
Location: Kusadasi, Ephesus, Kusadasi
Accommodation: Hotel, Charisma De Luxe Kusadasi.
Accommodation Name: Charisma De Luxe, Kusadasi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your morning with a trip to the nearby town of Selçuk. Home to the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis, you’ll begin with an educational visit to the Archaeological Museum. Once here, delve into the area’s history as you explore the museum’s exhibits, many of which have been retrieved from the nearby Ephesus excavation site. Later, explore the famous site itself. 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.
Day 5: The Pools Of Pamukkale Relaxed Start
Location: Kusadasi, Pamukkale
Accommodation: Doga Thermal Health & Spa Pamukkale.
Accommodation Name: Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, following the winding Maender River Valley, with its twists and turns, head to a local organic farm. Once here, you’ll meet the agricultural director who will take you on a walking tour of the eco-friendly lands. You’ll have the satisfying task of picking fruits and vegetables from his fields. Delight in a mouth-watering Farm-to-Table lunch, prepared with fresh produce from the farm. Continue to Pamukkale. Famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters and chalk-white limestone terraces, explore the area with your Travel Director. See the ruins of the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis, founded in 190 B.C. You’ll see the city’s well-preserved theatre and its turquoise travertine pools. Later, head back to your hotel, the esteemed Doğa Thermal Health & Spa. Take full advantage of its indoor and outdoor thermal pools, steam room and its Turkish bath complex.
Day 6: The Underground City And Cappadocia
Location: Pamukkale, Cappadocia
Accommodation: Hotel, Alfina Cave Cappadocia.
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today your journey takes you to Urgup, a historic town in the heart of Cappadocia. Visit the 13th-century Sultanhani Caravanserai before exploring the underground city of Saratli. You will recognise this famous area from the striking golden, volcanic landscapes that surround it.
Day 7: The Cappadocia Experience
Location: Cappadocia
Accommodation: Hotel, Alfina Cave Cappadocia.
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Move on to Göreme, a striking town in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. Explore its rock-hewn churches decorated with ancient wall paintings before moving on to the Pasabag Valley. Located on the road to Zelve, you’ll find otherworldly earth pillars here, ‘fairy chimneys’ and troglodyte dwellings. Later, join a Cappadocian local who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house. You’ll learn more about their unique way of living, local traditions and family life. Complementing the day’s events, this evening you'll witness a performance of the Whirling Dervishes before dining at a local restaurant.
Day 8: Ankara
Location: Cappadocia, Ankara
Accommodation: Ankara HiltonSA Ankara.
Accommodation Name: Ankara HiltonSA
Meals Included: Breakfast
One for art lovers, this morning, you’ll learn about the art of pottery making in Avanos. A town based in Cappadocia, it is famous for its earthenware pottery. Continue your journey to Ankara, where you’ll visit the Hittite Museum and the Mausoleum of Atatürk, Turkey's greatest modern leader and the first President of the Republic of Turkey. Perhaps relax in the spa and wellness centre at your hotel this evening.
Day 9: To Istanbul
Location: Ankara, Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to head to Istanbul. A glorious fusion of east and west, this popular city offers something for everyone, with history, culture, modernity, delicious cuisine and of course, the friendliest of faces. Board a cruise along the Bosphorus. As you make your way from Eminönü to the Black Sea, witness the area’s beautiful Ottoman palaces and fortresses lining the waterfront. Your evening is at leisure, why not ask your Travel Director for suggestions on places to dine.
Day 10: Istanbul & The Ottoman Empire
Location: Istanbul
Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Grand Istanbul Levent
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll take in the sites of Istanbul. In the morning, visit the historic Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held, before exploring Hagia Sophia. Built in A.D. 537, it is famous for its domed roof. Visit the 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 11: Farewell Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends, as your trip comes to an end. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flights, or for those extending their stay in Istanbul, speak to your Travel Director for tips and tricks on where to head.
What's Included
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Meals
Includes 9 Breakfasts (B), 6 Dinners with Wine (DW), and 1 Lunch (L) featuring local specialties at select destinations.
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Unique Experiences
Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a local organic farm in Pamukkale, discover the flavors of Cappadocia with a regional dinner, and watch a Whirling Dervishes performance.
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Expert Guides
Benefit from the knowledge of Local Experts in destinations such as Ephesus, Konya, and Istanbul for an in-depth understanding of the local culture, history, and landmarks.
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Special Access
Gain special access to major sights without the crowds, including a private tour of the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.
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Cultural Insights
Learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos and explore the underground cities and fairy-tale chimneys of Cappadocia.
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Historical Sites
Visit significant historical locations such as Anzac Cove in Gallipoli, the ancient city of Ephesus, and the mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara.
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Scenic Cruises
Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, offering stunning views of Ottoman palaces, old mansions, and fortresses.
What's Not Included
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International Airfare
International airfare to and from the start and end point of the tour is not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Some Meals
Some meals are not included, providing the opportunity to explore local dining options.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar, and room service are not included.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Tips and Gratuities
Tips and gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visa Fees
Any applicable visa fees are not included.
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- 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.
Insight Experiences
- Cappadocia: Join a Cappadocian local, who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house to learn more about their unique way of life.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries does the tour visit?
The tour visits Turkey.
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How many meals are included?
The tour includes 9 Breakfasts (B), 1 Lunch (L), and 6 Dinners with Wine (DW).
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Highlights include a Welcome Dinner in Istanbul, a farm-to-table lunch in Pamukkale, a regional dinner and Whirling Dervishes performance in Cappadocia, a Celebration Dinner in Istanbul, visits to Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery in Gallipoli, the Archaeological Museum and ancient sites in Ephesus, the Cotton Castle in Pamukkale, Mevlana Tekke museum in Konya, underground cities and fairy-tale chimneys in Cappadocia, the Hittite civilization in Ankara, and a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The tour starts in Istanbul.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The tour ends in Istanbul.
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What type of accommodations are provided?
Accommodations include the Grand Wyndham Levent in Istanbul, DoubleTree by Hilton Canakkale in Çanakkale, Charisma De Luxe Hotel in Izmir, Doğa Thermal Health & Spa in Pamukkale, DoubleTree by Hilton Avanos in Cappadocia, and Ankara HiltonSA in Ankara.
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Are there any cultural experiences included?
Yes, cultural experiences include a farm-to-table lunch in Pamukkale, a regional dinner and Whirling Dervishes performance in Cappadocia, a tour of a Cappadocian local's cave house, and learning about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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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.
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Terms and Conditions
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