Day 1: Depart to Istanbul

● Pack your bags and get ready for your flight to Istanbul!
- Cities: Istanbul

From $699 per adult (land only, flights not included)
From $1,235 per adult (including flights)
Embark on the ultimate Turkish adventure with this 12-day journey through the country’s most iconic destinations. From the vibrant streets of Istanbul, where East meets West, to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia and the ancient wonders of Ephesus, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sample delicious Turkish delights, and immerse yourself in the warmth of Turkish hospitality.
✔ International Flights
✔ 4-5 star accommodations with daily breakfast
✔ Airport pick-up/drop-off transfers available at scheduled times
✔ Transportation
✔ Activities
✖ Travel insurance
✖ Personal expenses
✖ Solo Occupancy Surcharge (US$500)
✖ Tips for services and experiences

● Pack your bags and get ready for your flight to Istanbul!

● Arrive in Istanbul, where you’ll be transferred to the hotel to check in. Or you can opt for our private airport transfers to ease your convenience.
* Pick up Transfer Note: There will be three scheduled arrival transfer times available for you to choose from: 11:00 AM, 16:00 PM, and 22:00 PM. If you require transfers outside of these scheduled times, additional charges will apply.
Did you know that Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents, Europe and Asia, divided by the Bosphorus Strait? This unique position gives it a rich blend of cultures and influences.

● Embark on a visit to the majestic Suleymaniye Mosque, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline.
● Take the day to wander Istanbul’s captivating bazaars and charming streets at your leisure.
● Or opt for our optional tour around Istanbul, visiting some of the iconic destinations around the city.
* Visitor Guidelines: To enter the monastery, all guests must adhere to the dress code: shoulders covered for everyone; women must wear knee-length skirts or dresses, and men should wear long pants.
Did you know that Istanbul has been the capital of three major empires: the Roman Empire (as Byzantium), the Byzantine Empire (as Constantinople), and the Ottoman Empire. Each era has left a significant mark on the city's architecture and culture.

● Start your day with the tantalizing aromas of the historic Spice Bazaar.
● Cruise the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus, marveling at Istanbul’s palaces, bridges, and traditional homes along this famous waterway.
● After disembarking, enjoy time exploring the city at your own pace, or join an optional Istanbul Asia Highlights Tour to discover the beauty of the Asian side, where East meets West.
● You can join us on an optional evening Bosphorus cruise with dinner and a live show.
Did you know? The city is surrounded by water—on one side, the Sea of Marmara, on the other, the Black Sea. The Bosphorus Strait runs through the middle, making water transport a significant part of the city’s identity.

● Travel through Turkey’s breathtaking Bolu Mountains to the cosmopolitan city of Ankara, the nation’s modern capital. (4-5 hours)
● Discover the grandeur of Anıtkabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.
Did you know: Ankara became the capital of Turkey in 1923, replacing Istanbul when the Republic of Turkey was established under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

● Embark on a scenic journey to Cappadocia (3.5 hours), a region famed for its otherworldly landscapes and whimsical rock formations. Along the way, marvel at the shimmering beauty of Tuz Gölü, one of Turkey’s largest salt lakes.
● Visit a traditional ceramic workshop and a precious stone shop, where you’ll learn the secrets of turning raw materials into beautiful art and jewelry.
● The rest of the day is yours to explore Cappadocia’s otherworldly scenery before a delicious dinner at the hotel.
● Join our optional and embark on an unforgettable journey through Cappadocia, exploring its unique landscapes in a thrilling jeep adventure.
Did you know? Many of the churches in Cappadocia are carved directly into the soft volcanic rock, offering both spiritual significance and an architectural marvel. These churches are adorned with beautiful frescoes, some of which date back to the 9th century.

● Discover the spectacular Goreme Valley Open Air Museum, home to ancient Byzantine frescoes.
● Wander through the enchanting Valleys of Avcilar, Pasabagi, and Güvercinlik, where you’ll find the famous “Fairy Chimneys.”
● Visit a local carpet workshop to see how these vibrant textiles are crafted, then return to your hotel.
● Feeling adventurous? Take to the skies with our optional Cappadocia hot air balloon experience!
● Ever visited an underground city? If not, join our optional to Ozkonak and enjoy a delicious beef cooked in a pottery lunch.
● Alternatively, join us for a mesmerizing experience and witness the famous Whirling Dervishes dance, a spiritual and captivating display of grace and tradition.
Did you know? Göreme Open-Air Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses some of the best-preserved Byzantine cave churches, many with stunning frescoes that date back to the 10th century, offering a glimpse into the region's religious history.

● Depart early for Pamukkale, stopping en route to admire the exterior of a historic Caravanserai, a timeless Silk Road oasis. (8-9 hours)
● After the tour, head back to the hotel.
Did You Know? Caravanserais were spaced roughly 30–40 kilometers apart—the distance a camel could travel in a day—offering food, shelter, and safety for merchants crossing vast and often treacherous trade routes.

● Explore the ancient Hellenistic city of Hierapolis and marvel at the surreal Cotton Castle, a natural wonder of white terraces and hot springs.
● Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Turkish textiles at a local shop, where you can admire the rich colors and intricate patterns of handwoven fabrics.
● Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site where Mary is believed to have spent her final years.
● Explore the ancient city of Ephesus, a treasure trove of Greco-Roman ruins, including the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, and the iconic Theatre.
● Check out an artisan leather shop to see how the local craftsmen work with this material.
● Set off towards the charming coastal town of Kusadasi, where stunning vistas and a laid-back atmosphere await.
● Don’t forget to stop by a famous Turkish delight shop for a sweet souvenir!
● Afterwards, we will head back to the hotel.
Did you know? The name "Kusadasi" means "Bird Island" in Turkish. This is due to the small island located just off the coast, which was historically home to many birds. The island is now connected to the mainland by a causeway and is home to a fortress built by the Ottomans.

● Travel to the ancient city of Pergamon (1.5 hours), once a center of art and learning, and visit the Asclepion, the famed ancient medical center.
● Continue to the legendary city of Troy, where you’ll uncover ruins from the epic saga of the Trojan War.
● Finish your journey in Canakkale, a strategically located city with fascinating historical sights related to its importance in the Dardanelles.
● Head back to the hotel and call it a night.
Did you know? Pergamum, once a powerful ancient city, was home to the first known use of parchment, a material made from animal skins that became an essential medium for writing. It was also renowned for its impressive library, which rivaled Alexandria’s, holding over 200,000 scrolls at its peak. Additionally, the Asklepion in Pergamum was one of the most famous healing centers of the ancient world, attracting patients from all over the Roman Empire seeking treatment.

● Head to Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, and explore the Ulu Camii Mosque, the Koza Han Silk Bazaar, and the Green Tomb.
● Cross the Gulf of Izmit, either by ferry or via the Osmangazi Bridge, depending on operational conditions.
● Continue back to Istanbul for the final leg of your journey, where you can relax and enjoy the vibrant city at your leisure.
Did you know? With over 4,000 shops spread across 61 covered streets, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. It’s a maze of stalls selling everything from spices to jewelry to Turkish carpets.

● Your incredible Turkish journey comes to a close today. After a delightful breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back home, taking with you unforgettable memories from this grand adventure.
* Note: There will be two scheduled departure transfer times available for you to choose from: 08:00 AM and 12:00 PM. If you require transfers outside of these scheduled times, additional charges will apply.
Currency
Turkish Lira (TRY)
Electricity
Turkiye operate on 230 volts at 50 Hertz. The plug types used are the European standard Type C and Type F plugs. Type C plugs have two round pins and Type F plugs have two round pins with two earth clips on the side.
Etiquette Turkiye has strong religious traditions (Islam in Turkiye). Showing respect for these traditions, such as observing silence and modesty in places of worship, is important. Dressing modestly is valued in both countries, especially when visiting religious sites. In Turkiye, women should cover their heads when entering mosques.
AccessibilitySome tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For more information, please contact our customer support team.
* This fast-paced itinerary is designed to showcase the very best of Turkiye, featuring a rich variety of sights and experiences. Be prepared for early mornings and full days of discovery.
Language
Turkish is the official language of Turkiye, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
HealthConsult a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations and health precautions.
Weather
Spring (March to May): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
Summer (June to August): 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
Fall (September to November): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
Winter (December to February): 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
Travel Restrictions: Goods & Items
Learn more about customs rules and travel regulations when visiting Turkiye. Travelers can find updated information on entry restrictions, prohibited items, and duty-free allowances by visiting the official Turkish Customs (Trade Ministry) website. In Turkiye, drones weighing 500 g or more must be registered with the civil aviation authority, and foreign operators need prior permits to fly. Flights are restricted near airports, military zones, and crowded areas, with a maximum altitude of 120 m and only allowed during daylight hours.
Türkiye Visa Requirements (Updated 2025)
● U.S., Canada, and most Schengen passport holders: No visa needed for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
● Republic of Cyprus: Visa required. Apply for an e-Visa before travel.
● Australia, Mexico, and the following countries still need an e-Visa: Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, East Timor, Grenada, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Palau, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Taiwan, Tonga, and Tuvalu.
Passport Requirements
● Canadian passport must be valid for at least 60 days beyond your intended stay (e.g., 150 days total if staying 90 days).
● U.S. passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
● Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp.
If an e-Visa is required
● Apply online at least 30 days in advance: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/
● Present your e-Visa on arrival for verification.
Important Notes
● All application details must match your passport exactly.
● Entry may be denied if there are any errors or mismatches.
● Travelers from other countries should check the official website for current visa rules.
All balances are due 140 days before the start of your trip. The amount is fully refundable before the balance due date for Voyager, Adventurer, and Elite members at the time of booking, whereas Pathfinder, Insider members and lower will incur a cancelation fee equal to the initial amount (equal to the full value of the voucher).
If your invoice shows an outstanding balance after the Balance Due date, please contact us through our online chat support to discuss the next steps regarding your travel services. Cancelations submitted after the final payment due date may still be eligible for a refund in accordance with the applicable cancelation policy.
Instant Purchase Airfare: Full airfare payment is due at the time of booking.
Value Airfare: Voyager, Adventurer, and Elite members at the time of booking qualify for a full refund of the amount if canceled before the balance due date, Pathfinder and Insider members will incur a cancelation fee equal to the amount. The amount for other aspects of the itinerary may vary depending on the supplier’s terms and conditions. Final payment is due by the specified balance due date.
To check the latest visa and travel requirements, please click here.
Value airfare:
TripToGo's vendors collaborate with selected airline partners to provide a flight itinerary that aligns with your trip's arrival and return dates, with flight times determined by the vendors. When booking with value airfare (mixed cabins), the higher class will be guaranteed for long-haul segments lasting more than 7 hours. For value airfare, tickets will be issued after the final payment is made. You will receive your ticket confirmation 30 to 45 days prior to the departure date of your trip.
Airfare with instant purchase:
TripToGo offers a selection of airlines and airfares for your convenience. For instant purchase airfare, full airfare payment is due at the time of booking. Your ticket confirmation will be sent within 24 to 72 business hours after it has been issued.