Best of Turkey
Best of Turkey
Best of Turkey
11 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Türkiye
Visiting: İstanbul, Ankara, Göreme, Kaymaklı, Sagalassos Archaeological Site, Pamukkale, Ephesus Archaeological Site, Troy, Gelibolu
Tour operator:
Tour code:
298
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Age range:
8-95
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Turkey is a truly magical destination. Steeped in history and filled with important ancient sites and historical landmarks, it offers a deeply captivating experience. This 11-day tour takes you from Istanbul, the grand capital, to many of the country’s best destinations, before ending again in Istanbul. See the ruins of ancient cities and visit the resting places of important men in history. You explore the unique and bizarre natural landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale. We then travel down the ancient Silk Road, just as the ancient traders did before returning to modern life feeling as through you had journeyed through time!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Istanbul
Location: İstanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Istanbul 4-star hotel
Meals Included: No Meals
Your 10 day adventure starts with your arrival in Istanbul. This is a grand and ancient city of mosques and museums, winding roads and historical landmarks.
Perched at the intersection of two continents, Istanbul features a unique blend of European and Asian culture, history, and architecture. After being transferred to your hotel, you will have the rest of the day to yourself in Istanbul.
Day 2 : Tour Of Istanbul's Old City
Location: İstanbul
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Istanbul 4-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day two includes a tour of Istanbul’s Old City. Here we will visit some of the city's most famous and captivating sites. The Blue Mosque is world-famous and is arguably Istanbul’s most iconic landmark.
The majestic Hagia Sophia is breathtaking in its grandeur, while the Topkapi Palace and Museum is filled with fascinating relics and artefacts.
This afternoon, you have the option of experiencing a cruise on the Bosphorus River, the channel that separates Europe from Asia.
Day 3 : Ankara, Anitkabir, Cappadocia
Location: Ankara
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Cappadocia boutique hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After departing Istanbul, we head today towards Ankara. This is Turkey's capital, and is also the resting place of one of the country's most celebrated leaders. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the leader of the Turkish War of Independence and was the republic's first president. His mausoleum is called Anitkabir.
We continue on until we reach Cappadocia. This magical place has emerged as one of the most popular destinations in Turkey. Its unique landscape is made up of hundreds of volcanic rock formations in strange and peculiar shapes.
Day 4 : Goreme, Pasabag, Uchisar Castle, Folklore Evening
Location: Göreme
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Cappadocia boutique hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The fourth day of the tour is filled with visits to several intriguing natural and cultural sites. First, we tour the Goreme Open Air Museum. Here you will find a beautiful collection of churches and monasteries that have been sculpted into the rock formations. In many, you can still see colourful paintings and frescoes on the walls.
We then visit the aptly-named fairy chimneys of Pasabag, and the majestic castle of Uchisar. In the evening, there is an optional Turkish folklore experience, belly dancers included- a chance to end off the day in a memorable way.
Day 5 : Kaymakli, Konya, Sultan Hani Caranvansary, Mevlana Museum, Alaeddin Mosque
Location: Kaymaklı
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Konya 4-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We start off day five with a visit to Kaymakli Underground City, where we explore the fascinating tunnels and mazes. We then set off towards our next destination, Konya, by taking the famous ancient Silk Road.
En-route, we stop off at the Sultan Hani Caravansary. This is a type of roadside inn, which was frequented by travellers of old as they traversed the Silk Road. This is a wonderful stop that will give us an insight into what the ancient traders might have experienced.
When we reach Konya, we pay a visit to the Mevlana Museum, the mausoleum of the world-famous philosopher and poet Jalaluddin Rumi, as well Alaeddin Mosque, the largest and oldest mosque in Konya..
Day 6 : Sagalassos
Location: Sagalassos Archaeological Site
Accommodation Name: Pamukkale 4-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Our destination today is Pamukkale, one of Turkey's most popular destinations. On our way, we stop to explore the ancient city of Sagalassos. Extremely well-preserved, this city was conquered in 33BC by Alexander the Great as he made his way towards Persia. It thrived for a time as an important exporter of pottery and agricultural products, before eventually falling into ruin after an earthquake and plague epidemic.
Day 7 : Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Temple Of Apollo
Location: Pamukkale
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kusadasi boutique hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we explore the travertines of Pamukkale. This remarkable natural site is made up of white calcium steps that are dotted with bright blue pools and hot springs, creating a magical contrasting landscape.
We then head to the ruins of the city of Hierapolis, which features many temples and other religious sites, earning it the name "The Sacred City". We see its impressive theatre, which is beautifully preserved, as well as the Necropolis, the enormous graveyard.
We continue to the Temple of Apollo. This was built in dedication to the famous Apollo, the Greek god of poetry, music, healing, and medicine. We can also see the beautiful leather goods that are handcrafted by the local people.
Day 8 : Ephesus, Temple Of Artemis, Carpet-Weaving Village
Location: Ephesus Archaeological Site
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kusadasi boutique hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we head to the ancient city of Ephesus. This ancient landmark has been excellently preserved and restored, and you are able to walk its streets and explore it much as its original inhabitants might have done.
We also visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, before stopping at a carpet weaving village. This is an important traditional craft in Turkey, and we get to see first-hand how the process works.
Day 9 : Mediterranean Coast, Pergamum Acropolis, Troy
Location: Troy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Cannakale - 5-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We enjoy a scenic drive today heading north up the Mediterranean coast before we visit the magnificent acropolis of Pergamum. The impressive temples and library here made this a renowned cultural and political centre in its time. Our next stop is the ancient site of Troy, famous for Helen of Troy and the wooden Trojan Horse. We spend the night at a hotel overlooking the Dardanelles Strait near Cannakale.
Day 10 : Gallipoli Battlefield Site And Memorials
Location: Gelibolu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Istanbul 4-star hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After crossing the Dardanelles Strait by ferry, we make a tour of the important World War 1 battlefield sites on the Gallipoli Peninsula, including ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, original tunnels and trenches and the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials. We'll then drive back to Istanbul to finish the tour.
Day 11 : Istanbul, Departure
Location: İstanbul
Accommodation Name: N/A
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour comes to an end today. After breakfast in Istanbul, your time is free until you are transferred to the airport for your departing flight.
What's Included
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Accommodation
6* -
All accommodation in 4 to 5-star & boutique style hotels
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All transport and transfers in AC vehicles
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All transport and transfers in AC vehicles
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24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
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Entrance fees for sights mentioned in itinerary
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Services of a local tour guide throughout
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Meals as indicated in the itinerary
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Tipping kitty
What's Not Included
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International flights (available on request)
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Visa fees (e-visa or visa on arrival for most nationalities)
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Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
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Meals not indicated in the itinerary
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Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
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Tips for guide & driver
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Any other items not mentioned above
More Info
Turkey is a truly magical destination. Steeped in history and filled with important ancient sites and historical landmarks, it offers a deeply captivating experience. This 11-day tour takes you from Istanbul, the grand capital, to many of the country’s best destinations, before ending again in Istanbul. See the ruins of ancient cities and visit the resting places of important men in history. You explore the unique and bizarre natural landscapes of Cappadocia and Pamukkale. We then travel down the ancient Silk Road, just as the ancient traders did before returning to modern life feeling as through you had journeyed through time!
Mode of Transport
AC minibus/coach
Domestic flight
Accommodation
4-star, 5-star & boutique hotels
Check out our Q&As
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What should I know before traveling?
It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters. General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not. You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds. Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
In Turkey we provide a fully trained, local English-speaking guide for all of the sightseeing tours. Our local reps in some of the towns and cities en-route are also at your service. At Encounters Travel we try to use local Turkish guides and reps as much as possible. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing.
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities. Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Turkey, and need to obtain it in advance online through http://www.evisa.gov.tr. Applicants just need to log on to the following link, provide the requested information, (after the application is approved) make online payment and download their e-Visa. More information is available here http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa From the 2nd March 2020 all UK nationals will not need to obtain a visa for Turkey (for visits of up to 90 days in each 180 day period). This will also apply to citizens of the Schengen area countries Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Poland.
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation. Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for Turkey are Hepatitis A and Tetanus. More information is available here: Turkey Malaria map - there is low risk malaria in some south eastern regions, not visited on our tours. Yellow fever certificates are not required.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
All our Turkey tours (except tours which feature Gulets) include an airport meet and greet and transfer service on the first day of your tour. This is available from/to both of Istanbul's airports; Istanbul Ataturk (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen (SAW). Our representative will be holding an Encounters Travel signboard with your name displayed for easy identification. If you can't find our representative, our emergency contact numbers are given in your tour confirmation voucher. No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to incorrect flight details being provided or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense. If your flights arrive/depart before/after the tour starts/ends then we will be very happy to arrange additional accommodation and airport transfers for you. We will aim to book these in the same hotel as the main tour, though this will be subject to availability (upgraded hotels are also available on request). If you do not book your additional accommodation through us, then our arrival/departure service is not included and you will need to make your own airport transfer arrangements. Welcome meeting: Our group tours will commence with a welcome meeting at 7pm in the reception of your hotel, where you will have the chance to meet your guide and the rest of your tour group. For those arriving after 7pm, details regarding Day 2 activities will be left at reception.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
In Turkey we provide a fully trained, local English-speaking guide for all of the sightseeing tours. Our local reps in some of the towns and cities en-route are also at your service. At Encounters Travel we try to use local Turkish guides and reps as much as possible. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing.
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Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
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Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.