Best of Turkey Small Group Tour

11 days
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
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Small Group Tour
Experience the Best of Turkey with our comprehensive tour, seamlessly connecting major destinations via short flights. Explore Istanbul's ancient wonders, from grand mosques to Roman-influenced architecture. Dive into Cappadocia's surreal landscapes, staying in luxurious cave hotels while exploring unique attractions like Uchisar Fortress and Goreme Open Air ...
From$3,980
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

    • Hippodrome: Step into the grandeur of ancient entertainment at this colossal arena, where iconic monuments like the Egyptian Obelisk and the Bronze Serpentine Column stand as silent witnesses to centuries of spectacle.
    • Blue Mosque: Marvel at the timeless elegance of this architectural masterpiece, its azure tiles shimmering under the Istanbul sun, casting a spell of enchantment over the skyline.
    • Hagia Sophia: Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring magnificence of Byzantine architecture at this timeless symbol of divine wisdom. Adorned with breathtaking mosaics, it stands as a testament to the ingenuity of human craftsmanship.
    • Basilica Cistern: Descend into the depths of history at this subterranean marvel, where ancient whispers echo amidst ornate columns and tranquil waters, offering a glimpse into Byzantine engineering genius.
    • Grand Bazaar: Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of this bustling marketplace, where the aroma of exotic spices mingles with the vibrant tapestry of goods, beckoning adventurers and treasure seekers alike.
    • Topkapi Palace: Journey through the opulent halls of power that once housed mighty sultans and their harems, where whispers of intrigue and romance still linger in the air, amidst lavish courtyards and majestic chambers.
    • Spice Market: Awaken your senses in this fragrant haven of sensory delights, where the intoxicating scents of spices from distant lands weave a tapestry of flavor and aroma, tantalizing the palate and stirring the soul.
    • Bosphorus Straits: Embark on a voyage of discovery along this legendary waterway, where the timeless beauty of Ottoman palaces, elegant mansions, and modern villas unfolds against the backdrop of breathtaking natural scenery.
    • Ephesus: Wander through the hallowed streets of this ancient city, once a beacon of Roman glory, now a testament to the enduring legacy of a bygone era, its ruins whispering tales of conquest and splendor.
    • Hierapolis: Surrender to the healing embrace of nature at this ancient spa town, where thermal springs cascade in cascades of sparkling white, amidst the haunting beauty of a vast necropolis and the echoes of ancient amphitheaters.

What's this trip about?

    Experience the Best of Turkey with our comprehensive tour, seamlessly connecting major destinations via short flights. Explore Istanbul's ancient wonders, from grand mosques to Roman-influenced architecture. Dive into Cappadocia's surreal landscapes, staying in luxurious cave hotels while exploring unique attractions like Uchisar Fortress and Goreme Open Air Museum. Continue to Izmir for Aegean culture and a visit to Ephesus, a magnificent Roman city. Marvel at Pamukkale's natural wonders before journeying to Antalya for seaside relaxation amidst stunning mountain vistas. Conclude your journey back in Istanbul, savoring the city's charms before departing on your international flight.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeIntimate group - 12 max
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityIstanbul
End CityAntalya

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Education / Learning
  • Family Friendly
  • Hiking & Walking
  • Local Immersion & Homestays
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Turkey

Attractions

  • Antalya
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Bosphorus Strait
  • Cappadocia
  • Ephesus
  • Hagia Sophia
  • Istanbul
  • Pamukkale
  • Topkapi Palace

Activities

  • Caving
  • Culture
  • Educational/ learning
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Homestays & Cultural Immersion
  • Nature
  • Ruins & Archaeology

Trip includes

    • Accommodation: Sultanhan, Kale Konak, Doubletree by Hilton Kusadasi, Dogan Antalya
    • Meals: 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches
    • Services of a private licensed professional English speaking tour guide
    • Airport Transfers: with air conditioned transportation with driver
    • Air conditioned transportation with driver in Cappadocia, Izmir, Antalya
    • Domestic flights: Istanbul-Cappadocia, Cappadocia-Izmir
    • Admission fees to sites and museums
    • Parking, portage, tipping (except guide & driver), toll roads
    • Coordination and attentive customer service throughout the tour by Sojourn staff

    • Required Association of Turkish Travel Agencies Foreign Visitors Insurance 
(a basic mandatory policy and not an adequate replacement for purchasing your own travel insurance.)

Itinerary

Day 1: Istanbul

Your private guide will welcome you at the Istanbul Airport and take you to your hotel in the heart of Istanbul (All our hotel options sit atop the tallest of the seven hills of Istanbul in the historic Sultanahmet district.) You will have time to become acquainted with the celebrated historic district of this bustling city before turning in for the night.

Day 2: Istanbul

Today your guide will meet you at your hotel, and you will first visit the Hagia Sophia to explore it's incredible architecture and remarkable story. Later you will also visit one of the Ottoman Empire’s greatest architectural achievements: the Blue Mosque. Following ...

Day 3: Istanbul

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and you will take off to the Topkapi Palace! After conquering Constantinople in the 15th Century, the Ottomans built Topkapi Palace. You'll have the opportunity to explore the palace and its treasures, including the hidden chambe...

Day 4: Istanbul to Cappadocia

Enjoy breakfast in Istanbul and then get ready for your flight to Cappadocia! A private driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the Istanbul airport for a one hour flight to Cappadocia. Your private guide and driver will will welcome you to Cappadocia a...

Day 5: Cappadocia

You may choose to rise today or day 6 before dawn for an hot-air balloon ride over the picturesque Cappadocian valleys. Let us know if you would like to add this addition experience to your tour.

Today, your Cappadocia guide will take you to explore Pasabaglari...

Day 6: Cappadocia - Ephesus

In the morning you will be transferred directly to Cappadocia Airport for your flight to Izmir. Once here, you will be met again by a guide and driver and have a tour of Sirince village as you make your way to your hotel on the coast in Kusadasi.

Day 7: Ephesus

Today will meet you at your hotel and you will visit the magnificent ancient city of Ephesus. You will enjoy a leisurely exploration of the city, including the Terraced Houses, followed by trip to the Ephesus Archeology Museum. Following lunch you will visit St. John’...

Day 8: Pamukkale - Antalya

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and a morning departure will take you overland to the much desired and highly photographed site of Pamukkale. With an optional chance to swim in the thermal waters of Cleopatra's baths, you'll see the beautiful white travertines ...

Day 9: Antalya

Your guide will meet you in the morning and you will visit two amazing sister cities - Perge and Aspendos. Enjoy a relaxing day at both of these locations. You may also visit an optional local waterfall before returning to your hotel in Antalya.

Day 10: Antalya

Today, you will tour Termessos, one of the best located historical sites in Turkey located on top of a mountain overlooking the sea. Your guide will meet you for an early morning departure.

After a morning outdoors, you'll return to see the magnificent Antalya Museum before touring the old town of Kaleici where you may choose to enjoy the nightlife, restaurants, or bars at your leisure.

Day 11: Departure

A private driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the Antalya airport for your international flight home.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,980
Price per day$362
Last Updated: 5/3/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Sojourn Turkey.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Sojourn Turkey Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5  Excellent
Excellent
121
Great
2
Average
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Other Sojourn Turkey Reviews

M

M Abu-Harb

Mar 2024

Provided bySojourn Turkey

Excellent service

Excellent service

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Response from

thank you

S

SH

Mar 2024

Provided bySojourn Turkey

Perfect service, we enjoyed the time in turkey

Perfect service, we enjoyed the time in turkey

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Response from

We are so glad you had a wonderful time in our beautiful country! Thank you for your review and feed...

P

Peter

Feb 2024

Provided bySojourn Turkey

Our visit to Istanbul was all we hoped it would be.

Our visit to Istanbul was all we hoped it would be. My communication with Sojourn was excellent and their itinerary, hotel choice and travel guide made the trip memo...

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Response from

We love to hear this! Thank you for your review

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Tour Operator

Sojourn Turkey

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Sojourn Turkey is a Turkish-American team creating custom trips for travelers who value personal service. A fully licensed tour operator in Türkiye, it was founded by Americans and Turks who are dedicated to curating custom designed private and small group tours that immerse you in the most beautiful aspects of Turkish culture, history, and cuisine. Sojourn specializes in trips that seamlessly blend classical and special interest sightseeing with experiences of local cuisine, art, and culture. Their niche lies in providing the best of both worlds, a team of Turkish guides and planners who have close local connections, and American owner-operators who intuitively understand your expectations and aim to exceed them.
 
Established by the dynamic duo, Chris and Angela, who have made Turkey their home since 2001, they formed a team of great local guides and tour designers, committed to serving each traveler with high standards. This fusion of American customer service and Turkish hospitality makes Sojourn unique. As Americans working alongside exceptional Turkish staff and the country's best guides, they all take pride in delivering the best quality, customized tours. They have earned a reputation for flexibility, personal service, and trustworthiness among their travelers, as well as local suppliers.
 
By choosing the finest guides, hotels, and restaurants, they set the stage for an unparalleled travel experience. This commitment is ingrained in every aspect of your journey. Sojourn’s experienced staff, trained by Chris and Angela themselves, work collaboratively to bring every detail to life. With core values of Innovation, Integrity, Fun (because enjoying life fuels what we do), Valuing People, Optimism, and Excellence, they are set apart and it shows in their many 5-star reviews.
 
Plan your travel with Sojourn Turkey, where every trip is designed to give you a wonderful experience of the best the country has to offer!

Why we love this operator
For their reputation for flexibility, personal service, and trustworthiness throughout the planning process and during every moment of your trip
What they’re known for
Sojourn is a Turkish-American team working together in the country to plan and operate the best customized private tours

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • International flight tickets (Arrive to Istanbul, Depart from Antalya)
    • Beverages at lunch
    • Optional gratuities to your guides and drivers
    • Travel insurance
    • Visas, laundry, and personal items
    • Entry visas to Turkey (purchased online before arrival)
    • Optional programs listed in itinerary
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  • Breakfast daily, lunch on all Full Day Tours
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Optional Activities
  • Whirling Dervish Ceremony: $75 per person
  • Trekking Tour: $60 per person
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: 60 Minutes: $390 per person 75 Minutes in VIP basket: $620 per person
  • Horse Riding Tour: 2 Hours: $100 per person
Additional Information

Starting at $3980 per person with 6 people as the start rate 

Trip ID
sojour1-sojour1-BeToSmGrTo

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