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Real Turkey

Real Turkey

From $ 2,330 AUD

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Description

See the real Turkey on this 15-day adventure through the best bits. Discover the cultural melting pot that is this fascinating landscape, which straddles both Europe and the Middle East. Indulge in some incredible local bites (and maybe some shisha, too), explore ancient ruins and walk in the footsteps of Marc Antony, Cleopatra and the Trojan army. Wander Istanbul at your own pace, then hit the coast to swim and sunbake in the Dardanelles Strait, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, sailing along the south coast. Learn about the practices of Sufism and the art and performance of the whirling dervish, then spend a few days getting to know otherworldly Cappadocia. Wander the fairy chimneys, get up early to see the iconic sight of hot air balloons floating along the city’s skyline and maybe even treat yourself to a ride at sunrise! This trip is all the best bits of Turkey and more! What more could you need?

Trip Name
Real Turkey
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
15
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Eat, swim, sunbake, repeat – that’s what will happen when you get cruising along Turkey's Mediterranean coastline. The choice is yours if you’d like to go exploring or just relax on deck. 
  • Delight your tastebuds with exceptional Turkish cuisine, from kebabs to coffee and the famous Ayvalik tost – a Turkish-style toasted sandwich. Then, dine in the home of a local family, where you’ll be treated to a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal.
  • Thought all the best Roman ruins were in Italy? Think again! Turkey is home to one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus – so discover it just like Anthony and Cleopatra did 2000 years ago. 
  • Explore the weird and wonderful world of Cappadocia – this might be the most unusual place in Turkey. Learn all about its fairy chimneys and sprawling rock formations from your expert local leader. 
  • Wade through the scenic hot springs at Pamukkale – pure white calcium deposits that cascade down the cliffs overlooking the town, are said to have magical healing properties.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Istanbul
Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul – the metropolis where European and Middle Eastern culture meet. You’ll have an important welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, maybe get out into the city streets and wander around or go hunting for a real doner kebab and some authentic Turkish delight (which pairs nicely with a cup of Turkish coffee). If you arrive a day or two early, maybe consider taking a day trip to Princes’ Islands. After the meeting tonight, why not head out for dinner with your group and get a taste of the fabulous local cuisine.
Day 2 - Canakkale
This morning, jump on a bus and ferry to the shores of Gallipoli – a significant peninsula for Australians and New Zealanders. A place of pilgrimage for many, it’s hard to imagine the now calm waters and peaceful landscape as the site of such a brutal battle back in World War I. Take in the reverence and serenity of the area and hear the stories of heroism and mateship that shone through the tragedies of war. You'll spend tonight in Canakkale – a popular university town – so you won’t have a hard time finding something fun to do tonight. Whether you’re chilling on the shore of the Dardanelles with a drink or checking out a local band with some of your travel pals, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in this coastal city.
Day 3 - Ayvalik
Up for learning a little about ancient history and mythical heroes? This morning, you’ll have the option to take an excursion out to the ruins of Troy – the famed walled city infiltrated by the Greeks after they hid in the enormous Trojan Horse. Explore the ancient walls, climb around the 4500-year-old ruins and look out across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Later, drive down the coast to Ayvalik, where your leader will take you on a walk to discover the town's fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish cultures. You’ll also visit the ladies at Copmadam – a local social enterprise that employs local women who upcycle waste and produce accessories and homewares. For lunch, snack on a local Ayvalik tost (a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings).
Day 4 - Ayvalik
Today is yours to explore Ayvalik. On the edge of the Aegean Sea, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to hang out in your free time. Stroll through the cobblestone backstreets and check out the rows of terracotta-roofed houses and lively cafes. Kucukkoy’s Greek stone houses, art galleries and delicious pastries are worth checking out. You could also head out to one of the many beaches in the area (like Sarımsakli and Badavut) or head out to Cunda Island, filled with Greek Orthodox churches. Tonight, you can join your group for an optional dinner where you could try some raki or balik with some of your travel crew. Set around a harbour, what better way to kick off the evening than with a drink at a harbour-side bar looking out to the Aegean Islands? As the locals say, “raki, balik, Ayvalik!””
Day 5 - Selcuk
This morning, take a local bus to the town of Selcuk. When you arrive, take an orientation walk to get your bearings. Later, you can head out to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Marc Antony and Cleopatra. This is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. You’ll be amazed by the sophistication of this ancient city, which had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a medical institute and Roman baths. The theatre is also well preserved, but it’s the library that’s perhaps the coolest structure. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Day 6 - Pamukkale
Travel east inland to Pamukkale, which literally translates to 'cotton castle'. Here, spectacular natural hot springs with a high calcium content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, creating bright white terraces, or ‘cotton’. Why not take a dip and snap some pics – these springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC and its waters are said to have healing properties. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy a dip in what used to be her old pool, soaking in the transparent springs that were sculpted for her as a gift from Marc. You can also check out the other ruins of the city – Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheatre shouldn’t be missed. If you're lucky, tonight you might catch an epic sunset from the acropolis.
Day 7 - Kas
Today, make your way south to the coast of Turkey to see the whitewashed buildings of Kas. Right on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll be able to explore this area and its Old Town this afternoon. You could be lazing by the beach and taking in the views out over the sea, swimming in the clear turquoise waters or wandering through the Ancient City of Antiphellos. This area has been inhabited since the 4th century, so make sure to soak in some of the incredible history while you’re here. As the sun sets, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations and feast on local delights in a restaurant tucked away in a corner of the Old Town.
Day 8 - Southern Coast Sailing / Kas
Sailing in the Mediterranean is on a lot of people’s bucket lists for a reason, and today you get to tick it off yours. Jump in a boat and sail along the Turkish coast for the day, discovering the mysterious sunken ruins of an ancient Lycian city, exploring rock tombs, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and cruising along this incredible coastline. After a day of swimming, soaking up the sun, eating a delicious homemade meal and exploring ancient lost worlds, head back to Kas for a free evening.
Day 9 - Antalya
After breakfast, hop on a public bus to Antalya – the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya with its cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. Head around town with your group leader, maybe jump on the old Nostalgic Tram or go to Konyaalti Beach for some more time chilling out beachside. If you are in the mood for some last-minute history, check out some of the best museums in the country, or get theatrical at Aspendos ancient city with a beautiful, intact theatre from Roman times. Tonight, why not stake out some food and shisha with your group – Antalya has a thriving nightlife scene, so take advantage.
Day 10 - Antalya / Konya
This morning, say goodbye to those leaving and meet with your new travel buddies at a second meeting at 11 am. Then, jump straight on the bus and go north to the charming city of Konya. The birthplace of Sufism (a religious belief and practice seeking the truth of divine love and knowledge) and the home of the famous whirling dervish, Konya is busting at the seams with history and culture. While you’re here, maybe check out the Mevlana Museum – the former dervish school turned museum – where you can visit the mausoleum of Rumi, a famous Sufi poet. For dinner, your leader can give you the best insider recommendations, so ask them where to find the tastiest kebab or where the best place for drinks is to celebrate stage two of your journey.
Day 11 - Cappadocia
Today, say farewell to Konya and hop on a bus to Cappadocia – home to strange rock formations, fairy chimneys and underground cities. Later in the morning, head underground and explore some of the 36 underground cities – these rabbit-warren metropolises were carved into the earth thousands of years ago. You’ll also have the opportunity to check out a traditional pottery demonstration with a local artisan, revealing all the secrets to creating the perfect ceramics. Tonight, a local family will welcome you and your group into their home for a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal. After, you might like to check out the nightlife in Goreme, or hit up a traditional sema performance of whirling dervishes.
Day 12 - Cappadocia
You may have seen the iconic hot air balloons over Cappadocia online, and this morning will be your chance to tick that epic sunrise experience off your bucket list. If you’re up for it, rise bright and early and head out and up as the sun rises over the otherworldly city. Heights not for you? There are tonnes of great viewing points around the city where you can grab some pics or a few selfies as the sky fills with balloons. Later in the day, discover the highlights of the region this afternoon, checking out Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley – your group leader will know all the best places to stop. Then, why not grab some wine and find a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset.
Day 13 - Cappadocia / Overnight Bus
Today is your day to explore all that Cappadocia has to offer. If you’re keen to get out and stretch your legs, why not head out on the Red Valley Hike, which takes you through Meskindir and Rose Valley. The natural sharp sandstone structures glow in the sun, and the trail takes you through a cave church with excellently preserved wall frescoes. If hiking is not your thing, why not explore the markets and street vendors in town. There is a wealth of incredible Turkish handiwork on display, from ceramics to intricately woven carpets. Don't forget to check out the Goreme Open Air Museum, where you can explore the fairy chimneys, cave churches and ancient villages. Tonight, you’ll be hopping on an overnight bus to take you to Istanbul, so settle in and snooze the night away.
Day 14 - Istanbul
Rise and shine in Istanbul. Your overnight bus will arrive in the capital city of Turkey early this morning, so after dropping your bags at your hotel, the day is yours to explore. With your group, you’ll be heading off on a historical peninsula tour, where you’ll be shown all the best bits of Istanbul and get a lay of the land. Your tour includes all the essential highlights for every new traveller, including the Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. After hunting down some lunch (borek and Turkish coffee, anyone?), why not explore this incredible city on foot and uncover some hidden gems. Tonight, check in with your leader for the best spots to grab dinner, and maybe rally the group to toast your adventure.
Day 15 - Istanbul
This morning your adventure comes to an end. Say goodbye to your group leader and travel pals. If you would like to spend more time checking out all Istanbul has to offer, your leader will be able to give you the best tips for making the most of your time in the city. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
15-03-202529-03-2025AUD $ 2,330-
05-04-202519-04-2025AUD $ 2,330-
19-04-202503-05-2025AUD $ 2,330-
26-04-202510-05-2025AUD $ 2,330-
30-04-202514-05-2025AUD $ 2,330-
03-05-202517-05-2025AUD $ 2,330-
10-05-202524-05-2025AUD $ 2,330-
17-05-202531-05-2025AUD $ 2,330-
24-05-202507-06-2025AUD $ 2,330-
31-05-202514-06-2025AUD $ 2,330-
07-06-202521-06-2025AUD $ 2,330-
14-06-202528-06-2025AUD $ 2,330-
21-06-202505-07-2025AUD $ 2,330-
28-06-202512-07-2025AUD $ 2,425-
02-07-202516-07-2025AUD $ 2,425-
05-07-202519-07-2025AUD $ 2,425-
09-07-202523-07-2025AUD $ 2,425-
12-07-202526-07-2025AUD $ 2,425-
16-07-202530-07-2025AUD $ 2,425-
19-07-202502-08-2025AUD $ 2,425-
26-07-202509-08-2025AUD $ 2,425-
30-07-202513-08-2025AUD $ 2,425-
02-08-202516-08-2025AUD $ 2,425-
09-08-202523-08-2025AUD $ 2,425-
13-08-202527-08-2025AUD $ 2,425-
16-08-202530-08-2025AUD $ 2,515-
23-08-202506-09-2025AUD $ 2,515-
27-08-202510-09-2025AUD $ 2,515-
30-08-202513-09-2025AUD $ 2,515-
06-09-202520-09-2025AUD $ 2,515-
10-09-202524-09-2025AUD $ 2,515-
13-09-202527-09-2025AUD $ 2,515-
17-09-202501-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
20-09-202504-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
24-09-202508-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
27-09-202511-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
01-10-202515-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
04-10-202518-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
08-10-202522-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
11-10-202525-10-2025AUD $ 2,515-
18-10-202501-11-2025AUD $ 2,515-
22-10-202505-11-2025AUD $ 2,425-
25-10-202508-11-2025AUD $ 2,425-
01-11-202515-11-2025AUD $ 2,425-
08-11-202522-11-2025AUD $ 2,425-
14-03-202628-03-2026AUD $ 2,795-
28-03-202611-04-2026AUD $ 2,795-
04-04-202618-04-2026AUD $ 2,795-
11-04-202625-04-2026AUD $ 2,795-
18-04-202602-05-2026AUD $ 2,795-
22-04-202606-05-2026AUD $ 2,795-
25-04-202609-05-2026AUD $ 2,795-
02-05-202616-05-2026AUD $ 2,795-
09-05-202623-05-2026AUD $ 2,795-
16-05-202630-05-2026AUD $ 2,795-
23-05-202606-06-2026AUD $ 2,795-
30-05-202613-06-2026AUD $ 2,795-
06-06-202620-06-2026AUD $ 2,795-
13-06-202627-06-2026AUD $ 2,795-
20-06-202604-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
27-06-202611-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
01-07-202615-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
04-07-202618-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
08-07-202622-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
11-07-202625-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
15-07-202629-07-2026AUD $ 2,795-
18-07-202601-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
25-07-202608-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
29-07-202612-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
01-08-202615-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
08-08-202622-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
12-08-202626-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
15-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 2,795-
22-08-202605-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
26-08-202609-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
29-08-202612-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
05-09-202619-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
09-09-202623-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
12-09-202626-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
16-09-202630-09-2026AUD $ 2,795-
19-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
23-09-202607-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
26-09-202610-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
30-09-202614-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
03-10-202617-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
07-10-202621-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
10-10-202624-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
17-10-202631-10-2026AUD $ 2,795-
21-10-202604-11-2026AUD $ 2,795-
24-10-202607-11-2026AUD $ 2,795-
31-10-202614-11-2026AUD $ 2,795-
07-11-202621-11-2026AUD $ 2,795-

Accommodation

Hotel (8 nights),Pension (3 nights),Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights),Overnight Bus (1 night)

Transport

Ferry,Local bus,Private Bus,Boat,Overnight Bus

Map

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