Real Turkey

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Our Price From 1,801 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 339 Per Person
 Trip Length
15 Days
 Trip Starts
Istanbul
 Trip Finishes
Istanbul
15 Day Real Turkey Itinerary (Intrepid)
Countries Explored: Turkey
Trip Styles
Basix , 18 to 35s
Departures
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
ERYOC

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 15 Day Real Turkey. 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....read more />
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?

Itinerary

Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul – the metropolis where the best bits of European and Middle Eastern culture meet and the perfect place to start your adventure. Take some time today to explore the capital city before you join up with your travel crew and group leader for an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. 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 come to Istanbul before the start of the tour, maybe consider taking a day trip to Princes’ Islands. After the meeting tonight, your leader will take you on an orientation walk of the city, showing you all the best bits of Istanbul. After, why not head out for dinner with your group and get a taste of the fabulous local cuisine.

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 some way to spend your evening. 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 do in this coastal city. (B)

Up for a little 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 stop by for a visit with the ladies at Copmadam – a local social enterprise that employs local women who upcycle waste and produce gorgeous accessories and homewares. For lunch, snack on a local Ayvalik tost – think a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings. (B/L)

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 is well worth checking out for its picturesque Greek stone houses, art galleries and to hunt down some delicious pastries. You could also head out to one of the many stunning beaches in the area (like Sarımsaklı and Badavut) or head out to Cunda Island, which is filled with Greek Orthodox churches. Tonight, you can join your group for an optional dinner while still on Cunda Island or head back to Ayvalik. 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? (B)

This morning, take a local bus to the town of Selcuk. Once there, 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 Anthony 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 magnificent 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. Chill out tonight in Selcuk, where you could try some Turkish meze and raki for dinner with some of your travel crew. (B)

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, it's been used as a spa since the second century BC, and its waters are said to have heaps of healing properties, so you’ll be glowing on your feed. 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 water-filled 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! (B)

Today, make your way south to the coast of Turkiye and explore the whitewashed buildings of Kas before you head out to Kekova. Right on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, today you’ll explore this area and its ruins as much as you like. You could be lazing by the beach and taking in the views out over the island, swimming in the clear turquoise waters, or making your way up to the ruins of Simena Castle, the ancient theatre, temples or the Lycian tombs. 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 look back up the hill towards the castle as it is brilliantly illuminated against the night sky. (B)

Island hopping 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 enjoying cruising along this incredible coastline. After a day of swimming, soaking up the sun, eating delicious food and exploring ancient lost worlds, head back to Kekova and enjoy the rest of your day in this idyllic town. (B/L)

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 charming 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 use it to your advantage. (B)

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.

Today, say farewell to Konya and hop on a bus to Cappadocia. Weird rock formations, fairy chimneys and underground cities – Cappadocia has it all. 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. Tonight, you’ll be treated to something truly special. 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 for something more mystical, hit up a traditional sema performance of whirling dervishes. (B/D)

You’ve seen the sunrise hot air balloons over Cappadocia on social media and this morning is your chance to tick that epic experience off your bucket list. If you’re up for it, rise bright and early to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience as the sun rises over the otherworldly city. Those who choose to opt in for this activity will have a seriously excellent time, getting high above the changing colours as the sun rises. 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 (your Turkey photo dump is about to be incredible!). 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. Later this afternoon, why not grab some wine and find a perfect vantage point to enjoy the sunset – your leader will be able to give you some excellent recommendations. (B)

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. (B)

Rise and shine in Istanbul! Your overnight bus will arrive in the capital city of Turkiye 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 Hagia Sophia, Hippodrome, Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar. After hunting down some lunch (borek and Turkish coffee, anyone?), why not explore this incredible city by foot, there are so many hidden gems to uncover. Tonight, check in with your leader for the best spots to grab dinner, and why not rally the group to toast your adventure together.

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. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • 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.

  • Hotel (9 nights)
  • Guesthouse (2 nights)
  • Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights)
  • Overnight Bus (1 night)

  • 12 Breakfasts included
  • 2 Lunches included
  • 1 Dinners included

  • Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Play Youtube Video

Brochure

Europe & Middle East

Intrepid Europe & Middle East (2022-24)

We know this is your European trip of a lifetime, and we’re committed to making it unforgettable. Our itineraries strike the perfect balance between the structured and the spontaneous, with a focus on experiences only made possible when you’re travelling with a local leader. You want freedom and flexibility as well as the highlights – that’s why we...more craft tours that give you both.

Availability

Saturday 30 Mar 2024
Saturday 13 Apr 2024
Status
From: $2,410
  N/A
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 13 Apr 2024
Saturday 27 Apr 2024
Status
From: $2,285 $2,239
Save $46 Enquire
Limited Time Sale
Saturday 20 Apr 2024
Saturday 04 May 2024
Status
From: $2,140 $1,801
Save $339 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 27 Apr 2024
Saturday 11 May 2024
Status
From: $2,285 $2,239
Save $46 Enquire
Limited Time Sale
Saturday 18 May 2024
Saturday 01 Jun 2024
Status
From: $2,184 $1,946
Save $238 Enquire
Saturday 25 May 2024
Saturday 08 Jun 2024
Status
From: $2,410
  Sold Out
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 01 Jun 2024
Saturday 15 Jun 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 24 Jun 2024
Monday 08 Jul 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 29 Jun 2024
Saturday 13 Jul 2024
Status
From: $2,425 $2,376
Save $49 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 13 Jul 2024
Saturday 27 Jul 2024
Status
From: $2,330 $2,283
Save $47 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 20 Jul 2024
Saturday 03 Aug 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 27 Jul 2024
Saturday 10 Aug 2024
Status
From: $2,270 $2,225
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 03 Aug 2024
Saturday 17 Aug 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 05 Aug 2024
Monday 19 Aug 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 10 Aug 2024
Saturday 24 Aug 2024
Status
From: $2,315 $2,269
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 12 Aug 2024
Monday 26 Aug 2024
Status
From: $2,315 $2,269
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 24 Aug 2024
Saturday 07 Sep 2024
Status
From: $2,355 $2,308
Save $47 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 31 Aug 2024
Saturday 14 Sep 2024
Status
From: $2,490 $2,440
Save $50 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 07 Sep 2024
Saturday 21 Sep 2024
Status
From: $2,315 $2,269
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 09 Sep 2024
Monday 23 Sep 2024
Status
From: $2,315 $2,269
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 16 Sep 2024
Monday 30 Sep 2024
Status
From: $2,355 $2,308
Save $47 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 21 Sep 2024
Saturday 05 Oct 2024
Status
From: $2,315 $2,269
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 28 Sep 2024
Saturday 12 Oct 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 05 Oct 2024
Saturday 19 Oct 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 12 Oct 2024
Saturday 26 Oct 2024
Status
From: $2,225 $2,180
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 19 Oct 2024
Saturday 02 Nov 2024
Status
From: $2,140 $2,097
Save $43 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 26 Oct 2024
Saturday 09 Nov 2024
Status
From: $2,140 $2,097
Save $43 Enquire
Saturday 30 Mar 2024
Saturday 13 Apr 2024
Status
From: $3,510
  N/A
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 13 Apr 2024
Saturday 27 Apr 2024
Status
From: $3,385 $3,339
Save $46 Enquire
Limited Time Sale
Saturday 20 Apr 2024
Saturday 04 May 2024
Status
From: $3,240 $2,890
Save $350 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 27 Apr 2024
Saturday 11 May 2024
Status
From: $3,385 $3,339
Save $46 Enquire
Limited Time Sale
Saturday 18 May 2024
Saturday 01 Jun 2024
Status
From: $3,284 $3,035
Save $249 Enquire
Saturday 25 May 2024
Saturday 08 Jun 2024
Status
From: $3,510
  Sold Out
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 01 Jun 2024
Saturday 15 Jun 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 24 Jun 2024
Monday 08 Jul 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 29 Jun 2024
Saturday 13 Jul 2024
Status
From: $3,525 $3,476
Save $49 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 13 Jul 2024
Saturday 27 Jul 2024
Status
From: $3,430 $3,383
Save $47 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 20 Jul 2024
Saturday 03 Aug 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 27 Jul 2024
Saturday 10 Aug 2024
Status
From: $3,370 $3,325
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 03 Aug 2024
Saturday 17 Aug 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 05 Aug 2024
Monday 19 Aug 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 10 Aug 2024
Saturday 24 Aug 2024
Status
From: $3,415 $3,369
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 12 Aug 2024
Monday 26 Aug 2024
Status
From: $3,415 $3,369
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 24 Aug 2024
Saturday 07 Sep 2024
Status
From: $3,455 $3,408
Save $47 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 31 Aug 2024
Saturday 14 Sep 2024
Status
From: $3,590 $3,540
Save $50 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 07 Sep 2024
Saturday 21 Sep 2024
Status
From: $3,415 $3,369
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 09 Sep 2024
Monday 23 Sep 2024
Status
From: $3,415 $3,369
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Monday 16 Sep 2024
Monday 30 Sep 2024
Status
From: $3,455 $3,408
Save $47 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 21 Sep 2024
Saturday 05 Oct 2024
Status
From: $3,415 $3,369
Save $46 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 28 Sep 2024
Saturday 12 Oct 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 05 Oct 2024
Saturday 19 Oct 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 12 Oct 2024
Saturday 26 Oct 2024
Status
From: $3,325 $3,280
Save $45 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 19 Oct 2024
Saturday 02 Nov 2024
Status
From: $3,240 $3,197
Save $43 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Saturday 26 Oct 2024
Saturday 09 Nov 2024
Status
From: $3,240 $3,197
Save $43 Enquire
Show more dates...
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Intrepid. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Intrepid. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar Tours

16 Day Premium Greece in Depth (Intrepid)

16 Days Athens Santorini

Operated By: Intrepid

From 10,451
Save 1,304
16 Day Premium Turkey & The Cyclades Islands (Intrepid)

16 Days Istanbul Santorini

Operated By: Intrepid

From 11,775
Save 1,441
15 Day Best of Greece (Intrepid)

15 Days Athens Santorini

Operated By: Intrepid

From 6,679
Save 166
15 Day Highlights of Turkey & the Greek Islands (Intrepid)

15 Days Istanbul Santorini

Operated By: Intrepid

From 7,017
Save 167