Best of Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

Best of Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

1,058 Views
12 Days From

$3359

$1847

Best of Turkey by Land (5 & 4 Star Hotels)

12 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey

Visiting: Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Fethiye, Dalyan, Pamukkale, Cappadocia

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

TB1

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

0-0

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3359 $1847 Operator discount: -$1512 -45%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkey with the "Best of Turkey by Land" tour, staying in luxurious 5 and 4-star hotels. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Istanbul, exploring iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Pay homage at the historic shores of Gallipoli, and wander through the ancient ruins of Troy and Ephesus. Delight in the natural beauty of Fethiye's turquoise waters and the stunning travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Experience the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, with options for a breathtaking hot-air balloon ride. Enjoy guided tours, comfortable transportation, and delicious meals, all while soaking in Turkey's rich cultural heritage. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural wonders, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler.

Highlights

  • Feel the beating heart of Istanbul with visits to the Hagia Sophia and an optional Bosphorus Cruise.

  • Visit the shores of Gallipoli to honor the fallen and tour ancient cities like Troy and Pergamum.

  • Explore the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus and soak in the beauty of the Library of Celsus.

  • Enjoy the pristine bays and turquoise waters of Fethiye, and visit the wonderland of Saklikent Gorge.

  • Walk among the cotton-like pools of travertine in Pamukkale and soak in the magical landscape.

  • Experience Cappadocia with options for a hot-air balloon adventure and a Turkish Bath.

  • Join a boat trip to Dalyan, visit mud baths, and see the famous Caretta Caretta turtles at Iztuzu Beach.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star

Welcome to Turkey! At the Istanbul airport terminal keep your eyes peeled for the Travel Talk sign for your transfer to the hotel. Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates...

Day 2 : Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Ottoman Legacy Hotel – 5 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we begin to experience the magnificence of Istanbul. We will stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline.

Day 3 : Gallipoli

Location: Gallipoli

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Kolin Hotel - 5 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we depart for the shores of Gallipoli. A place of important significance for Aussies and Kiwis, we will visit the beach and cemeteries at ANZAC Cove, before paying our respects at memorial sites Chunuk Bair and Lone Pine.

Day 4 : Troy, Kusadasi

Location: Troy

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Marina Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

You may of heard of Troy from Greek mythology or maybe just watched the Brad Pitt movie, but now you will visit the ruins and archaeological site of the city of Troy, and of course the famous wooden horse. Spend the afternoon in the the seaside town of Kusadasi.

Day 5 : Ephesus, Fethiye

Location: Ephesus

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Greenland - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, our first stop is the spectacular, well preserved ancient city of Ephesus. Ephesus was cited in the book of Revelations, and historians believe the Gospel of John was written here. Famed for the Temple of Artemis which was completed around 550 BC and is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. In the afternoon we depart for Fethiye where we can explore the buzzing resort town.

Day 6 : Fethiye,Saklikent,Oludeniz

Location: Fethiye

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Greenland - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we make our way to Saklikent, one of the deepest canyons in the world. We will then continue our journey to Oludeniz. Besides its spectacular beaches, glittering waters and breathtaking natural scenery, Oludeniz is also popular for its water sport. Here you can relax on the exquisite beach or join one of the adventure activities including paragliding and microlighting. Late in the afternoon we depart for our overnight stay in Fethiye.

Day 7 : Fethiye, Dalyan, Fethiye

Location: Dalyan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Greenland - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Our next stop is Dalyan, a small town situated along the south-western coast popular for its natural and unspoiled beauty. We will join a boat trip to visit the most popular mud bath in Turkey, and we then continue to Iztuzu beach, homeland of world famous Caretta Caretta turtles. After a fantastic boat ride we will reach Iztuzu sandbar with fine sand and turquoise sea.

Day 8 : Fethiye, Pamukkale

Location: Pamukkale

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hierapark Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's time to get your cameras out, because today is a photographers dream! Today we will visit Pamukkale, or ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish. Pamukkale is a natural site that contains hot springs and travertine, giving the appearance of terraces made by carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. Spend time bathing in its pools, or explore the natural and unusual landscape.

Day 9 : Pamukkale, Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Avrasya Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we sit back and relax on the coach, as we head to Cappadocia. Watch the amazing Turkish scenery unfold before us and see small towns and villages as we pass on by. In the afternoon, we will visit Derinkuyu Underground City, a city complete with a church, wells, food stores, and even stables which is all located 60m under the ground. End the day with an optional traditional Hamman (Turkish bath).

Day 10 : Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Avrasya Hotel - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Goreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Goreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. In the afternoon we will visit local handicraft manufacturers and learn about traditional art. Tonight get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish night.

Day 11 : Cappadocia, Ihlara, Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Legacy Ottoman Hotel - 5 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we visit the dramatically beautiful Ihlara Valley before departing for Istanbul where we arrive late in the evening.

Day 12 : Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our trip will end after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast, bid you safe travels, and check-out of the hotel (11:00am).

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay in 5 and 4 star hotels throughout the tour.

  • Meals

    Enjoy 11 breakfasts and 8 dinners during the tour.

  • Transportation

    Travel in an air-conditioned, modern coach or mini-bus.

  • Airport Transfer(s)

    Receive transfers from Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport on day 1.

  • Tour Guiding

    Benefit from the services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

  • Free Wi-Fi

    Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi where available.

What's Not Included

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to various sites are not included.

  • Any flights

    Flights to and from the destination are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not provided and should be arranged separately.

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour price.

  • Items of a personal nature

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional meals are not included.

  • Visa fees

    Visa fees are not included and should be arranged separately.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities and excursions are not included in the tour price.

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with air-conditioned, modern coaches or mini-buses, ensuring a comfortable journey between destinations. Enjoy airport transfers from Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport on day 1, and a scenic boat trip in Dalyan.

Accommodation

Stay in luxurious 5 and 4 star hotels throughout your journey, including the Legacy Ottoman Hotel, Kolin Hotel, Signature Blue Resort, Hotel Greenland, Hierapark Hotel, and Avrasya Hotel, ensuring comfort and elegance at every stop.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 5 and 4 star hotels throughout the trip.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, airport transfers are included from Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport on day 1.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 11 breakfasts and 8 dinners.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned, modern coach or mini-bus.

  • Is there a guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

  • Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi is available where possible.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour price?

    No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are several optional activities such as a Bosphorus Boat Cruise, paragliding in Oludeniz, a Turkish Bath Experience, and a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

Scarlett Lily  

One of the best holidays I’ve had

25-Feb-2021

We went on a tour of the Balkans and it was above our expectations. Bojan was the best tour leader gave us so much information about the places we were visiting but also a great laugh! The tour ran so smoothly and was the perfect way to see the area in a little amount of time. It was one of the best holidays I have been on, I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to book another tour with travel talk. They are great value for money!

Trustpilot

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 19, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 07, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

May 03, 2025 - May 14, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

May 10, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

May 17, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

May 24, 2025 - Jun 04, 2025
$3359 $1847

Operator discount: -$1512

Saturday - Wednesday

May 31, 2025 - Jun 11, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 21, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 16, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jul 19, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 06, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 23, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 13, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Sep 27, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 11, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Saturday - Wednesday

Oct 25, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$3446 $1895

Operator discount: -$1551

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Similar Tours