About this trip
Twelve days across Turkey, moving from Istanbul's skyline and bazaars to the WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, the ruins of Troy, and the ancient cities of Ephesus and Pergamon. It's a history-heavy route that covers a lot of ground, built for people who want the big names rather than one slow base.
Along the way you'll take in Pamukkale's white terraces, the rock landscapes of Cappadocia, and Konya's Sufi heritage, before Ankara gives you a look at the modern republic. The trip loops back to Istanbul at the end for a second, closer look at the city.
Expect guided visits to major sites, group meals of Turkish food, and a fully escorted pace throughout — this is a group tour designed to string together Turkey's headline destinations in one go.
What you'll do
- Walk the Gallipoli battlefields and memorials
- Explore the ruins of Troy
- Wander the ancient cities of Ephesus and Pergamon
- See the travertine terraces at Pamukkale
- Explore Cappadocia's rock-cut landscapes
- Visit Konya, centre of Sufi tradition
- Covers a lot of ground over 12 days with frequent changes of base
- Fully guided throughout, suited to those who prefer a structured itinerary over independent exploration
- Heavy on history and ancient sites, good fit if that's your main interest
Worth it if you value historical depth and get a strong guide. Think twice if you're solo, want guaranteed group dynamics, or prefer transparency on what's included.
- Top guides like Utku and Yesra deliver genuine expertise on Turkish history with real warmth and professionalism.
- Small groups trigger itinerary changes without proper notice: flights substituted for promised overland travel, stops dropped, included meals removed.
- Compulsory visits to carpet, pottery, and leather shops with high-pressure sales tactics; shop owners can be rude if you decline.
- 2-3 days listed in package are unguided free time; upfront museum passes would save money but aren't mentioned until after booking.
Distilled from real traveller reviews on TourRadar — we don't edit out the bad bits.
The same-vibe trips, side by side — price, value per day, and how each is moving. Only we can lay two operators' trips out honestly.
Sorted by fit — never by who paid. Price moves and availability come from our own daily tracking.
Getting there
Opens Trip.com, pre-filled — one-way so you can book your return whenever. Prices & booking shown there.
Where to stay
A night before your tour in Istanbul · 20 Jul – 21 Jul
Booked on their own sites, separate from your tour. We may earn a commission — it never changes your price.
Sort the essentials
Partner offersWe may earn a commission from partner offers. It never changes your price or our ranking.
More trips like this
Ranked on real fit — in case this one isn't quite yours.
Booked with the operator via TourRadar · we may earn a commission.