Compare Heart of Turkey Family Adventure by Wildland Adventures vs Wonders of Turkey - Classic Group, Summer by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
5 | Excellent
|
| Duration | 15 days | 12 days |
| Price From | $ 4,550 | $ 2,450 |
| Price Per Day | $ 303 | $ 204 |
| Highlights |
|
|
| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
|
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
|
|
| Flights & Transport | No | Airfare included |
| Activities |
|
|
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
On this active family adventure to Turkey you amble among countless Roman, Greek, and Byzantine ruins, experience local daily life in vibrant Istanbul, white-washed seaside towns and rural villages, and explore the coastal turquoise waters where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. Starting and ending in one of the world's greatest cities of old you walk narrow cobblestone streets to the covered bazaar and ride a public ferry along the Bosphorus. Hike in the spectacular sandstone valleys of Cappadocia, then travel south across the Anatolian plateau where you'll experience village life staying in a guest house with a local family we've known for 20 years. Traversing the Taurus range to Antalya on the Mediterranean coast, you swim at beautiful beaches, hike to ancient sites in pine forests of the Lycian coastal range, including the natural eternal flames in Olympos. Our adventure culminates at the ancient city of Ephesus before returning to Istanbul. During your family Turkey tour, there’s plenty of time for additional activities including kayaking, snorkeling, hot air ballooning, and cycling adventures. |
Fall in love with Turkey on this 11-day guided tour. See Ephesus, an ancient city built in the 10th Century B.C. with an amphitheater that once sat 24,000 people. Drive through the Maender River Valley to an organic farm, where you can walk the lush lands, then feast on fresh produce during a mouth-watering lunch. See the turquoise travertine pools in Pamukkale where ancient Romans used to soak — then dip into the spa at your hotel to indulge in its Turkish baths. Take a tour of a traditional cave house in Cappadocia with the local who lives there, then dine as you watch whirling dervishes dance nearby. Visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the resting place of the country’s first president, in Ankara. Travel to Istanbul, where you’ll see the infamous Blue Mosque before bargaining at the electric Grand Bazaar, which boasts more than 4,000 shops. |
DAY 1: ISTANBUL
Upon arrival in Istanbul, you are met and transferred to our hotel in the historic Sultanahmet District. Meet your guide in the afternoon and stroll through the streets of the Old City to an open -air terrace restaurant for dinner. Your meal is an authentic introduction to Turkish cuisine and culture with an unbeatable view from your restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus and Golden Horn.Stay overnight in the Istanbul Sultanahmet District. [D]
DAY 2: ISTANBUL
Today explore the grandeur of one of the world’s most important historical cities, Istanbul. Visit a selection of splendid relics of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires including Topkapi Palace, Aya Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Roman Hippodrome, and the Underground Cistern. If time permits, visit the Kapali Carsi (covered bazaar). Around sunset hop onto a commuter ferry joining local residents returning home from work. The boat offers a grand view of the historic mosques and bridges and
restored antique homes. Enjoy dinner at one of the lovely seafood restaurants in an upscale neighborhood on the other side of the Bosphorus. Overnight Istanbul Sultanahmet District.[BLD]
DAY 3: ISTANBUL –KAYSERI—CAPPADOCIA
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Kayseri (1 hr) where you are met and driven to your accommodation in Urgup village of Cappadocia (50 min). Visit Uchisar Castle, a natural rock formation of former residences carved out of the soft tuft, and the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a complex of medieval cave churches carved and elaborately painted by Orthodox monks. This evening, see a Whirling Dervish performance in a restored Caravan Serai. Overnight at a boutique cave hotel in Cappadocia cave hotel.[BLD]
DAY 4: CAPPADOCIA
Start the day with a hike or bike ride through one of the lovely valleys of Cappadocia amidst the beautiful geological formations rich with orchards and family farms. Look for hidden churches, cave rooms, and pigeon roosts in the sandstone cliffs.You can walk or bike for as long as you prefer as there are multiple trails in this hikers’ paradise.Cappadocia is the heartland of Turkey and rich with local produce. Enjoy a local lunch before exploring the small charming towns of the area such as Avanos where you visit a master potter's workshop to study pottery and have a chance to throw a pot. The potter's the wheel was invented in Anatolia. Return to your hotel.We highly recommend an optional hot air balloon ride in the early morning(cost not included). Overnight in Cappadocia cave hotel.[BL]
DAY 5: CAPPADOCIA –KONYA –URUNLU
After breakfast, descend into the honeycomb depths of either Kaymakli or Derinkuyu underground cities where the people of Cappadocia escaped from marauding invaders and survived in tunnels and caverns for several months. En route to Konya (2 hrs), stop to view a 13thcentury Selcuk Turk Caravanserai, similar to those made famous by Marco Polo.In Konya visit the Mevlana Museum, home of the Whirling Dervishes. Continue to the remote mountain village of Urunlu via Beysehir Lake on seldom-used back roads(3 hrs). Black goat-haired yurts of Yuruk nomads can be seen in the green meadows surrounded by cedar-covered mountains. Ubuntu is a traditional community rarely visited by western travelers. Villagers who participate with us in this authentic cross-cultural encounter have added beds, plumbing, and more privacy so you feel comfortable as their guests. Relax with your hosts and get to know village life in rural Turkey. Stay overnight in a village B&Bhomestay. [BLD]
DAY 6: URUNLU
Today enjoy time in the village and hiking to Golden Grotto Cave. Hike to a picnic lunch spot where you can swim and explore the cave.Stay overnight in a village B&Bhomestay. [BLD]
DAY 7: TAURUS MOUNTAINS –ANTALYA
Scenic morning drive over the Taurus Mountains to the Mediterranean coast, stopping at Perge and Aspendos, the best preserved, and one of the largest Roman theaters in the world (100 miles 2-3hrs). Relax and explore the old town of Antalya where Attalus II, the king of Pergamon, founded a port in 2ndcenturyBC. Stay overnight at Pudding Marina in the heart of Antalya's old district near the harbor. [BL]
DAY 8: ANTALYA –OLYMPOS –CHIMAERA
This morning drive to Termessos National Park (40m) a protected biodiversity hotspot and the archaeological site of Termessos, famous in the ancient world as the only city in Anatolia which did not surrender to Alexander the Great. An uphill 3hour hike leads to the prominent acropolis of Termessos. Pass through dense and diverse coastal range vegetation rewarded by spectacular views and an impressive intact site with theater, the Odeon, agora, the phenomenal necropolis, and other temples of this ancient settlement. Continue to Olympos and end the day in Çıralı, which is the home of the eternal flames of Chimaera. Bellerophon, the legendary hero of Lycian, is said to have killed Chimaera, the fire-breathing monster here. Spend the night in the village called Çıralı(meaning“flames” in Turkish), near the Olympos beach. Spend the afternoon enjoying the beach, then take a late afternoon hike through the beautiful pine forests to the Eternal Fires of the Chimaera (1.5 hrs) where the mythological hero, Bellerophon, road his winged white horse Pegasus, and killed the three-headed monster, Chimaera. Today, 15-20 gas-produced flames burn perpetually from holes in the ground. Stay overnight at Blue and White Pension in ÇıralıVillage by the sea. [BL]
DAY 9: OLYMPOS –KAŞ
After breakfast depart on the coastal road to Kaş(3 hrs) with stops along the way such as in Demre to see where St. Nicholas spent his life 1700 years ago. Then it’s on to Kaş, a charming Mediterranean seaside village with its well-preserved Greek theater, narrow cobblestoned streets, and white-washed houses festooned with colorful bougainvillea and wooden balconies. Enjoy the family-friendly town with pedestrian-friendly streets where kids can run and plenty of swimming beaches(pebble/rock). Meet your guide for dinner at one of the open-air restaurants here where seafood is a specialty. Overnight in Kaş. [BLD]
DAY 10: KAS: SEA KAYAKING OR CRUISE TO GREEK ISLAND OF MEIS
Free day in Kaş-you may opt (for additional cost) to go out in the bay for snorkeling, diving, or kayaking to the nearby sunken cities. Those who are brave can try paragliding. Enjoy swimming in some of the best water on the Mediterranean or spend time in town tracking the ancient Lycian tombs and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Overnight Kaş.[B]
DAY 11: KAŞ–DALYAN
Drive to Dalyan (100 miles / 2 hrs) with stops in ancient sites. In the afternoon stretch your legs at Turtle Beach, well-known as the place where the rare sea-turtle species Caretta Carettas lay their eggs. Board a fishing boat and cruise up the Dalyan River through a maze of bamboo and cattails. Hike amongst the magnificent 4thcentury rock cut tombs and the Carian ruins at Caunos, and then cool off with an optional mud bath by the river! Overnight at Dalyan Resort.[BL]
DAY 12: DALYAN –ŞIRINCE VILLAGE
Drive to Şirince stopping at ancient sites of Priene and Didyma. Priene is known for its sweeping view of the Meander River, a well-preserved theatre and the Temple of Athena. Didyma holds a gigantic Temple of Apollo which was one of the most famous oracles in the ancient world, equal in importance to the oracular temple at Delphi in Greece. Leave the coast and drive a short distance into the hills above the city to overnight in the village of Şirince, once used by residents of Ephesus as a cool mountain retreat. There is time to wander the cobblestone streets amongst the charming stone cottages, where local inhabitants sell homemade fruit wine, herbal soaps, olive oil, and delicious natural foods. Overnight in an Ottoman-style cottage in the village, one of the boutique guest houses of NişanyanEvleri. [BL]
DAY 13: EPHESUS –ŞIRINCE
Wake up in the morning in the heart of the village to the tickling sounds of bells as shepherds take their goats to graze and fresh Turkish breakfast is delivered to your porch. Walk throughout the impressive ancient city of Ephesus. One of the most impressive Roman ruins and important coastal cities, Ephesus attracted the world’s merchants, artists, and statesmen for centuries. Also, visit the relics of Hellenistic, Roman, biblical, Byzantine and Ottoman interests such as the ancient residential area rarely seen by most visitors, the Archeological Museum, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.Overnight houses of Nişanyan Evleri.[BLD]
DAY 14: ISTANBUL GALATA DISTRICT
Transfer to the airport for your 1-hour flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival meet and transfer to your hotel located in the bustling Galata District close to the pedestrian promenade of Istiklal Caddesi where you can walk through the lively neighborhood of Beyoglu up to Taksim Square offering an abundance of restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops in close proximity. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax, explore, and reflect on your experience in Turkey. Enjoy farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant. Stay overnight in the Galata District at Adahan Hotel. [BD]
DAY 15: DEPARTURE
After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for international departure. [B]
Day 1: Welcome to Istanbul
Welcome to Turkey. You’ll start in vibrant Istanbul, where a representative will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Located in the heart of the city, you’ll be close to Taksim Square, which is famous for its Republic Monument, dining and shopping options. Join your Travel Director at 18:30 for a Welcome Dinner, where you’ll get to know your fellow travellers.
Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Gallipoli and Anzac Cove
Marvel at breathtaking coastal views as you make your way along the shores of the Sea of Marmara to historic Gallipoli. Located in the southern part of East Thrace, it was here that for nine months during the Great War, Anzac troops fought in an in an attempt to gain control of the Dardanelles Strait. Learn more about these events as you visit Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery. Later, join your group as you head from Eceabat across the sea to Çanakkale. Home to famous archaeological site, Troy, this historic destination will be your home for the night.
Kolin Hotel, Canakkale.
Breakfast
Day 3: Troy, Pergamon and Izmir
Begin your day of legends with a trip to Homer’s city of Troy, the focal point of the Trojan War and the backdrop to one of history’s most famous love stories, that of Paris and Helen of Troy, the face that launched 1000 ships. A replica of the mighty Trojan horse, which helped the Greeks capture the city in 1200 B.C., can be seen beside the city’s walls. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Copmadam, a women's co-op turning recycled materials into unique items, and addressing women's employment issues. Continue on to Pergamon, once a powerful ancient Greek city, you’ll find the Asklepion temple here. A famous shrine and healing centre, it was built in honour of Asklepios, the god of medicine. After some time exploring, continue your journey to the coastal city of Izmir.
Swissotel Büyük Efes, Izmir.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 4: Ancient Ephesus and Kusadasi Relaxed Start
Start your morning with a trip to the nearby town of Selçuk. Home to the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Artemis, you’ll begin with an educational visit to the Archaeological Museum. Once here, delve into the area’s history as you explore the museum’s exhibits, many of which have been retrieved from the nearby Ephesus excavation site. Later, explore the famous site itself. Walk through the colonnaded Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and the huge Amphitheatre, before visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, situated above the Ephesus ruins.
Charisma De Luxe Hotel, Kusadasi.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 5: The Pools of Pamukkale
This morning, following the winding Maender River Valley, with its twists and turns, head to a local organic farm. Once here, you’ll meet the agricultural director who will take you on a walking tour of the eco-friendly lands. You’ll have the satisfying task of picking fruits and vegetables from his fields. Delight in a mouth-watering Farm-to-Table lunch, prepared with fresh produce from the farm. Continue to Pamukkale. Famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters and chalk-white limestone terraces, explore the area with your Travel Director. See the ruins of the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis, founded in 190 B.C. You’ll see the city’s well-preserved theatre and its turquoise travertine pools. Later, head back to your hotel, the esteemed Doğa Thermal Health & Spa. Take full advantage of its indoor and outdoor thermal pools, steam room and its Turkish bath complex.
Doğa Thermal Health & Spa, Pamukkale.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine
Day 6: Konya, the Whirling Dervishes and Cappadocia
Today, you’ll travel to Konya. The home of the Whirling Dervish, this city offers tradition in abundance. Noteworthy buildings line its streets, with beautiful mosques and modern buildings providing a delightful contrast. Visit the Mevlana Tekke museum, with its recognisable turquoise dome. See the Karatay Madrasa, built in 1251, before moving on to the Ince Minaret, a 13th century madrasa. Continue your journey to Urgup, an historic town in the heart of Cappadocia. You will recognise this famous area from the bright balloons that decorate its sky and the striking golden, volcanic landscapes that surround it. Your abode for the night is the unique Alfina Cave Hotel Cappadocia, built in old cave dwellings. Get some rest here before your travels continue in the morning.
Alfina Cave Hotel Cappadocia.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 7: The Underground Cities of Cappadocia Experience
Move on to Göreme, a striking town in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. Explore its rock-hewn churches decorated with ancient wall paintings before moving on to the Pasabag Valley. Located on the road to Zelve, you’ll find otherworldly earth pillars here, ‘fairy chimneys’ and troglodyte dwellings. Later, visit the underground city of Özkonak, where you’ll have time to explore its tunnels and caves with your Travel Director before joining a Cappadocian local who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house. You’ll learn more about their unique way of living, local traditions and family life. Complementing the day’s events, dinner tonight will be accompanied by a performance of Whirling Dervishes.
Alfina Cave Hotel Cappadocia.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 8: Ankara
One for art lovers, this morning, you’ll learn about the art of pottery making in Avanos. A town based in Cappadocia, it is famous for its earthenware pottery. On your way, stop off at one of the best-preserved Seljuk Caravanserais in Anatolia. Continue your journey to Ankara, where you’ll visit the Hittite Museum and Anit Kabir, the Mausoleum of Atatürk—Turkey's greatest modern leader and the first President of the Republic of Turkey. Perhaps relax in the spa and wellness centre at your hotel this evening.
Ankara HiltonSA, Ankara.
Breakfast
Day 9: To Istanbul
It’s time to head to Istanbul. A glorious fusion of east and west, this popular city offers something for everyone, with history, culture, modernity, delicious cuisine and of course, the friendliest of faces. Board a cruise along the Bosphorus. As you make your way from Eminönü to the Black Sea, witness the area’s beautiful Ottoman palaces and fortresses lining the waterfront. Your evening is at leisure, why not ask your Travel Director for suggestions on places to dine.
Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Breakfast
Day 10: Istanbul & the Ottoman Empire
Today you’ll take in the sites of Istanbul. In the morning, visit the historic Blue Mosque with its tiled interiors. See the Hippodrome, where Roman chariot races were held, before exploring Hagia Sophia. Built in A.D. 537, it is famous for its domed roof. Visit the Topkapi Palace, perched above the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the primary inlet of the waterway. Enjoy the excitement of bargaining in the bustling Grand Bazaar. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 11: Farewell Istanbul
It’s time to say goodbye to your new friends, as your trip comes to an end. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flights, or for those extending their stay in Istanbul, speak to your Travel Director for tips and tricks on where to head.
Breakfast
