Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Intrepid's 10 Day Essential Turkey. See some of the best bits of Turkey – a cultural melting pot that straddles Europe and the Middle East – on this 10-day trip with likeminded travellers. Indulge your senses with traditional Turkish food (don’t forget to try a coffee and some shisha, too!), explore ancient ruins and walk in the footsteps of Marc Antony and the Trojan army. Dip your toes in the Dardanelles Strait, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea and sail along the south coast, uncovering the mysteries of ancient sunken cities. With so much on read more offer, what more could you ask for.
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Our Price From
US$1,005 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $335 per person
Trip Length
10 Days
Trip Starts
Istanbul
Trip Ends
Antalya
Departures
Mar 2026 to Nov 2027
Countries Visited:
Operator
Intrepid
Trip Style
Basix
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-35 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
ERYT
Itinerary
Hos geldin! Welcome to Turkey. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Istanbul – the only city in the world to straddle two continents. 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.
Discover the Old Town of Istanbul on a walk along the historical peninsula with your local leader. See some of Istanbul’s landmarks and learn about the region’s history along the way. The rest of today is then free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe wander through the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, visit the Galata Tower or head to a local tea house for a drink and to partake in some nargile (also known as a waterpipe, shisha or hookah) smoking. (B)
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. (B)
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 today, drive to Selcuk. The evening is free for you to spend how you like. Maybe grab a couple of your new friends and wander through town to find a great spot for dinner. (B)
This morning, head out to the 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. Discover the ancient city which had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a medical institute and Roman baths. While the theatre is also well preserved, it’s perhaps the library that’s the coolest structure. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In your free time this afternoon, maybe head to the town of Kusadasi and hang out at one of the many sparkling beaches. You could also head to the hilltop village of Sirince and wander the cobbled lanes in search of some local fruit wine. (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 – these springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC and its waters are said to have healing properties. Take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and check out the 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, maybe get up early for a sunrise hot air balloon over Pamukkale before making 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. (B)
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. (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 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. (B)
Your adventure comes to an end today in the beautiful city of Antalya. Say goodbye to your new friends and head off whenever you’re ready. If you’d like to stay in Turkey longer, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Eat, swim, chill, 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.
- Discover one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus and wander the ancient ruins – not all Roman ruins are in Italy!
- Wade through the steaming hot springs at Pamukkale and enjoy the health benefits from the water which is said to have magical healing properties.
- Explore the city that straddles the continents and discover its incredible and varied history – the thriving metropolis of Istanbul is where east literally meets west.
- Learn the history of the Gallipoli Peninsula and hear the harrowing stories of the ANZACs and one of the most infamous battles of World War I.
- Hotel (9 nights)
- 9 Breakfasts included
- 1 Lunches included
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Intrepid regularly update their itineraries throughout the year based on feedback and local conditions. Therefore the itinerary you see now may differ from when you booked. Global Journeys will provide you with detailed trip notes at the time of quoting, along with a finalised itinerary and trip notes before your trip departs.
Operator
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers off the beaten track to discover the world's most amazing places for 30 years. Every trip is designed to truly experience local culture - to meet local people, try local food, take local transport and stay in local accommodation. Led by a local leader, our small group tours offer more a sustainable way to travel off the beaten track, while giving back to the places and people that travellers visit.
Trip Style: Basix
Our Basix trips are designed for travelers of any age on a budget. Using simple, clean and centrally located accommodation (typically with a 2-to-2.5-star average rating), local transport where we can, along with plenty of free time. This means you can do the things that suit your budget and interests, rather than paying for inclusions you don’t want. Meals are generally not included, but your experienced local leader will have some great suggestions!
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Intrepid 18 to 35's (2025-26)
Travel with a small group of like-minded 18 to 35-year-olds who care about the world and want to experience it deeply. Intrepid’s youth adventures balance must-see highlights with plenty of free time, all led by passionate local leaders who know every hidden gem. With small groups, big energy, and a strong commitment to responsible travel, these trips more are designed for connection, fun, and meaningful discovery.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Flexible Deposit
Cancel up to 56 days before departure and your deposit becomes a credit for future travel.
GJ Loyalty Discount
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Saturday
21 Mar 2026
21 Mar 26
Istanbul
Monday
30 Mar 2026
30 Mar 26
Antalya
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $1,290
US$1,161
Save $129
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
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 Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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 Inquire. Additional savings may apply. 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. Pricing and trip details are correct 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 the cruise-line and 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.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct 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 the cruise-line and 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.
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