Highlights of Turkey Trip Notes

Trip Overview

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Highlights of Turkey tour takes you to the most essential sites to see over 8 days. Start off with vibrant Istanbul and discover the diverse history and incredible monuments before a cruising on the Bosphorus. Ride to the magical Cappadocia and watch the fairy-chimneys unfold from a hot-air balloon. Splash into white-washed thermal pools of Pamukkale and walk the impressive ruins of Ephesus. Then fly back to Istanbul in comfort.

Duration : 8 Days

Destination : Turkey

Start/Ends in : Istanbul/Istanbul

Group Size :13-35 People

Age Req. : 18+

Trip Theme : Discovery, Overland

Hotels : 5 & 4 Star

Departs : October to June

Why you will love this tour

• * Explore bustling cities, ancient ruins, seaside towns and unique landscapes on this 7-day Turkish adventure, with all breakfasts and four dinners included.

• * Travel in private air-conditioned coaches, stay in 5 & 4-star hotels and enjoy an included domestic flight to save on travel time between Pamukkale and Istanbul.

• * This tour includes a domestic flight between Izmir and Istanbul to cut-down on transit time.

• * Get ready for pinch-yourself moments at the Ancient City of Ephesus. Be sure to check out the beautiful Library of Celsus and tick off a Wonder of the Ancient World – Temple of Artemis!

• * Explore the world-famous fairy chimneys of Cappadocia! Then, join your local guide as you wander through underground cities and check out ancient churches hidden within caves.

• * Snap the ultimate Insta-worthy pics at the cotton-like natural springs of Pamukkale.

• * Start and end your trip in the bustling city of Istanbul. Visit the historical old town to explore the iconic Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and other hidden local gems.

• * Shape your adventure the way you’d like with optional activities – From hot-air ballooning over Cappadocia, to experiencing a traditional Night Show, a Bosphorus River boat cruise or relaxing like a local with a traditional Turkish bath experience.

Arrival Details

The group welcome meeting with your guide and other travelers is held around 18:30 at the hotel lobby on Day 1 of your tour unless otherwise notified.

Meeting Point:

The meeting point for the Highlights of Turkey tour is:

Legacy Ottoman Hotel – ISTANBUL

Address : Hobyar Mahallesi, Hamidiye Cd. No:16, 34112 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey

Phone : +90 (0212) 527 67 67

Emergency Number: +44 203 14 99 200

Airport Transfers :

Complimentary arrival airport transfer is available between 05:00 and 23:00 on the first day of the tour (Day 1) from both international airports in Istanbul. Arrival airport transfer is also available if you book pre-accommodation with us.

To arrange your airport transfer please email us the following information at least 2 weeks before your departure date. [email protected]

Travel Date, Flight Number, Local Arrival Time, Name/s of the Passengers

Making Your Own Way to the Starting Point

The Istanbul Airport (ISL) is located 45 km North-west of Old Town. Before you exit the terminal you will need to go down below Level 2 for the Havaist shuttle which will take you to Sultanahmet (Old town) for 18TL and the drive takes approx. 80 minutes. The payment method for the shuttle is IstanbulKart. You can easily get it from the machines at the airport (works for all public transportation in Istanbul & can be refilled). From Sultanahmet, you will need to take the tram to Eminönü. The arrival hotel is only a couple of minutes’ walk from Eminönü tram station. The total cost is approximately 25TL. You can also take a taxi from the airport directly to the hotel and can expect to pay around 150-200 TL.

The journey from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) to Istanbul is straightforward and inexpensive. After you leave the terminal you will see the Havabus shuttle which will take you to Taksim for 18TL (cash accepted) and the drive takes approx. 90 minutes. From Taksim, you will need to take the funicular to Kabatas, then catch the tram to Eminönü (will require IstanbulKart to ride the tram). The total cost is approximately 28TL. If you prefer to take a taxi straight to the hotel, it will cost around 160TL.

Finishing Point

The finishing point for the Fantastic Turkey tour is: Istanbul Airport.

Highlights

Istanbul: Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects the cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here.

Blue Mosque: The exterior features a beautiful cascade of domes and six minarets and blue Iznik tiles adorn the interior giving the building its unofficial but commonly used name.

Topkapi Palace: Home of the Sultans, the heart of the Ottoman Empire… Roam through the royal palace of the Ottomans and follow in their footsteps to see their most valued treasures.

The Hagia Sophia: The Hagia Sophia, among the Seven Wonders of the World, awaits you with all its magnificence. The hundreds of years old structure will fascinate you on sight

Cappadocia: A region of exceptional natural and man-made wonders. Take the chance to discover underground cities carved into the rock, fairy chimneys, and many more…

Pamukkale: Home of the world-famous travertines, the cotton castle. You will witness the unusual and beautiful scenery just near the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Ephesus: The best-preserved ancient town in Turkey, Ephesus embarks you on a journey to ancient times while roaming the streets. Celcius Library is the most important remains of it.

Itinerary

Please note that the itinerary may be subject to small changes depending on the conditions during the tour. Alternative accommodation of similar standards may be used depending on the group size and hotel availability.

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour price covers the following services:

Accomodation : 5 and 4 star hotels

Airport Transfer : From Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (on day 1)

Meals : 7 breakfasts | 5 dinners

Transportation : Air-conditioned modern non-smoking coach or mini-buss, Domestic Flight

Guide : Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism

Sightseeing : Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace Museum, Derinkuyu Underground City, Goreme Open Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, Devrent Valley, Karatay Medresa, Mevlana Museum, Ephesus Ancient City, Cavusin, Pamukkale White Terraces

What is NOT included in the tour price?

• Any flights not mentioned above

• Travel insurance

• Meals not stated above

• Items of a personal nature

• Tips & gestures

• Entrance fees to the sights and museums

• Optional activities

• Other services not stated in the itinerary

Hotels & Accommodation

Please note that the hotels are subject to change depending on the group size and availability. Hotels of similar standards will be used where available in case of a change.

Solo travellers will be roomed with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin or triple room or can upgrade to a solo room by paying the single supplement. You may choose the solo room option when booking online or contact us to arrange a private room. Solo rooms are not available on gullets. Your tour leader will allocate rooms upon arrival at the starting hotel in accordance with the rooming lists, last minute changes may not be guaranteed.

LEGACY OTTOMAN HOTEL – ISTANBUL – 5 Star

The hotel continues its deep meaning that coming from its history which is adjacent to the most important historical monuments of the city, is the only five-star hotel in the region.

SIGNATURE BLUE RESORT – KUSADASI – 5 Star

Signature Blue Resort, a 5-star haven, redefines luxury with its impeccable service, lavish accommodations, and stunning amenities, promising guests an indulgent retreat in a picturesque setting.

HIERA PARK DELUXE HOTEL – PAMUKKALE – 5 Star

This hotel is located in the Karahayit region which is famous for its mineral hot waters and this hotel offers absolute relaxation with its hot thermal pools & spa center.

AVRASYA HOTEL – CAPPADOCIA – 4 Star

This is a very special place in Cappadocia which has been shaped by the magic hands of nature. The hotel is in the intersection of the real world and the world of fairies. Also in a very good location.

NOVOTEL – KONYA – 5 Star

A contemporary design hotel, located in the very center of the city. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center and a swimming pool.

Distances

Please find below the distances between the sights visited in Turkey and the approximate driving times. We will always strive to take a short break every few hours to enable passengers to stretch their legs, purchase snacks and use wash facilities during long drives.

Istanbul – Cappadocia: 760 km – 11 hours

Cappadocia – Konya: 237 km – 3 hours

Konya – Pamukkale: 390 km – 4.5 hours

Budgeting

Please note that entrance fees to sights and optional activities are not included in the tour price. Optional activities are not operated by Travel Talk and may require a certain number of attendees to run. Your guide will be happy to inform you further about the available optional activities at the start of your tour. Optional activities are also listed under each day in your tour itinerary.

Entrance Fees

Istanbul

Topkapi Palace — 1700 TRY

Blue Mosque — Free

Hagia Sophia — 25 EUR

Cappadocia

Underground City — 13 EUR

Goreme Museum — 20 EUR

Pigeon Valley — Free

Konya

Karatay Madrasa — 3 EUR

Pamukkale

White Terraces — 30 EUR

Ephesus Ancient City — 40 EUR

Karatay Madrasa — 60 TRY

Optional Activities

Please note that optional activities are not operated by Travel Talk.

Hot-Air Ballooning — 290 EUR

Turkish Night Show — 35 EUR

Turkish Bath Experience — 30 EUR

Bosphorus Cruise — 10 EUR

Updated on 27.07.2023

Personal Spending

The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the currency of Turkey. While every person has different spending habits, we have estimated your average daily expenses to help out with the planning. Please find below in USD the approximate spending to expect for meals not included and more.

Meals

Lunch at restaurant: US$ 5-7

Dinner at restaurant: US$ 10-15

Simit – Turkish Bagel: US$ 1-2

Sandwich at a Stall: US$ 0,15

Drinks

Bottle of water: US$ 0.15

Coffee: US$ 1-1.5

Tea: US$ 0.5-1

Bottle of beer: US$ 2-3

Tipping

Tipping good service is common in Turkey, typically ~ 10% for a restaurant meal. No need to tip taxi drivers,however you can round up the fare for convenience. Your guide and driver would also appreciate this kindof traditional gratitude at the end of your tour.

Shopping

With plenty of markets, stores, shops and bazaars to choose from you’re able to discover a wide range of beautiful unique crafts, textiles, jewellery, clothing and furniture. Turkey is also home to the Grand Bazaar; the biggest old covered bazaar in the world, with over 3,000 shops of all kinds. Haggling is also part of the experience, so brush up on your skills. Turkey is especially known for its:

Pottery & Ceramics

Famous for its fertile lands and other-worldly landscape, the volcanic soil of Goreme, Cappadoccia has allowed for marvellous works of pottery for centuries. A perfect souvenir that comes in many shapes and sizes! Prices may range from 1 to 100 USD.

Hand-woven carpets

Famously known for its high-quality hand-woven carpets, it might be the best souvenir to give yourself or to a loved one… Prices may range from 100 to 1000+ USD.

Evil-eye Talisman

Believed to ward of the evil, these bright blue eyes of glass (Nazar Boncugu) are found in many sights visited and come in various sizes as decorative items, keychains and more. Prices may range from 0.50 to 50 USD.

Opening Hours

There are no hard and fast rules for opening hours in Turkey, but banks and main post offices are generally open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 12.00 midday and 1.30pm to 5.30pm. Shops are usually open from around 9.00am to 6.00pm, later in bazaars and shopping malls. They are usually closed on Sunday

Essential Information: Turkey

Passport & Visas

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey, which can be applied for online via www.evisa.gov.tr. Travellers from the Australia, Canada, Ireland, South Africa and the USA can apply for a 90-day e-visa online. Although this process usually takes only several minutes, we recommend to obtain it at least 2 weeks before you arrive in Turkey.

Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa if staying for less than three months: United Kingdom, New Zealand, France, Germany, Japan, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland.

Passport validity entry requirements: Travellers entering Turkey must carry a passport or travel document valid for at least 60 days from the expiry date of their visa.

This information is provided as a guidance, we strongly advise that you check with the consulate or embassy as this information can change. Please note, visa costs can change at any time and with little notice depending on the political climate of the region. It is your responsibility to make sure that all the required travel documents are ready when travelling. For more details, check out our Turkey travel advice.

Travel Advice

We are closely monitoring the latest travel updates to Turkey and follow the advice of the UK Foreign Office. For the latest travel advice from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), please visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey

We recommend all travellers to check their Government National Travel Advisory prior to their departure:

Australia – https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Canada – https://travel.gc.ca/

New Zealand – https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

USA – https://travel.state.gov/

Travel Insurance

All passengers travelling with Travel Talk are required to have personal travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance for you in place, you may read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/travel-insurance

Health & Safety

The health and safety of our passengers, staff and communities visited is of utmost priority. As we monitor and comply with the official advice from the UK Foreign Office, as well as World Health Organization and government authorities regularly, we have implemented several policies and precautions on our tours for your wellbeing. You may find our Safe Travels Protocols at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels

Travel Talk Adventures has received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which allows travellers to recognise companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols – so consumers canexperience ‘Safe Travels’.

Please make sure to regularly check your Government’s travel advice before travelling and be well-informed of any requirements. Your tour guide will also notify you of the regulations and protocols to follow throughout your trip with us.

Please note that if any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary or possess a potential risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to remove them from all or part of a trip.

Please consult with your doctor for the latest medical travel information and any vaccinations you may need. We recommend that you bring any personal medical requirements and medications with you as these may be difficult to obtain while on tour.

Weather

Istanbul has wet, cold and often snowy winters and has the highest rainfall from November to February. Spring in Istanbul is damp with mild temperatures and it is relatively dry and hot in the summer. The city also tends to be windy. The southern, coastal regions of Turkey are warm and pleasant during the summer. In winter the temperatures rarely fall below 7°C making the Turquoise coast an ideal destination even in early spring and late autumn. Due to the high altitude of the central Anatolian plateau, Cappadocia can be cool in the evenings, even in the summer, but it remains hot during the day – often in the mid-thirties. Spring and autumn can be very crisp and suitable clothing is advised. Please find below the average temperatures for each month in different parts of Turkey.

Check out our weather guide for the best time to visit Turkey.

Money Matters

The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. Although you can pay with USD and EUR in some places, you’ll always get a better deal paying in the local currency.

Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted in Turkey. Some shops at small towns and rural areas may not accept cards, we would recommend carrying some cash with you for small purchases, just in case. ATMs can be easily found in many places in the cities however are not as common in rural areas. Avoid changing the bulk of your money at the airport as the exchange rates are usually more favourable in the major cities. Your tour leader will be happy to help if you need any assistance!

Please remember that everyone has different spending habits, some prefer to spend more on souvenirs, some on experiences and others on a night out! Make sure to budget your trip to your spending habits for shopping, drinking, and tipping.

Tipping is not compulsory, but is commonplace, with locals and tourists alike tipping good service. We recommend tipping ~10% of the total bill when dining in a restaurant, if a service fee has not already been applied. However, simply rounding up the fare in a Taxi for convenience is acceptable and appreciated also. Your guide and driver would also appreciate this kind of traditional gratitude at the end of your tour.

Eating & Drinking

The Turkish love to eat out and it’s easy to see why! Turkish cuisine is filled with a unique blend of Eastern European, Central Asian and Middle Eastern flavours. Don’t let the clichés fool you; there is more to Turkish cuisine than shish kebabs!

No one does breakfast, or Kahvalti, quite like the Turkish. Expect to see the table covered in a variety of meze dishes and gastronomic delights served on small plates including cheeses to olives, eggs. breads and pastries. There are two common restaurant styles in Turkey – A-La-Carte and ‘ready meal’. Ready meal restaurants offer a range of pre-prepared, buffet-style dishes and are a fantastic opportunity to sample a wide variety of traditional cuisines for reasonable prices. Meanwhile, in more upmarket restaurants, we recommend sampling a range of ‘Meze’ platters (appetizers) to get a taste for the unique local tastes. Searching for authentic dishes to your taste can be a challenge with so many incredible options, so here’s a few must-try dishes to get you started in Turkey. For more, check out our Turkish food guide.

Gozleme: Thin savoury Turkish pancakes filled with cheese, meat, mushroom, spinach or potato.

Pide: A savoury bread baked with feta cheese, parsley, and mozzarella, sprinkled with nigella seeds. You can also fill with lamb which is like Lebanese lamb fatayer

Simit: Bread ring studded with sesame seeds. Sold in bakeries and by street vendors.

Cig Kofte: A simple snack made from cracked wheat mixed with raw meat, tomato paste and lots of spices. Usually served on lettuce leaves with lemon juice, it is a spicy, crisp, and refreshing flavour

Adana Kebabs: Similar to the widely popular Shish and doner kebab, Adana is a spicy minded meat kebab sprinkled in purple sumac herb.

Baklava: Don’t forget to save room for traditional dessert… A deliciously rich, buttery, sweet dessert made from phyllo dough, finely ground pistachios, butter, and a syrup made from sugar, water and lemon juice.

Kadayif: Shredded pastry dough filled with nuts and drenched in syrup.

Lokum (Turkish Delight): A family of confections based on a gel of starch and sugar. Premium varieties consist largely of chopped dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, or walnuts bound by the gel and flavoured with rosewater.

There is a common misconception that Turkish Coffee is the nation’s traditional drink, brewed thick and powerful yet drank in just a couple of short sips. However, Tourists are often surprised to learn that tea (cay) is far more popular amongst locals. It is served in a small fluted glass with a small spoon and saucer. There are various flavours of tea to try from the traditional to sweet apple and lemon. You’ll also find a wide variety of alcoholic drinks on offer with Beer (bira) the most popular. Local beer brands include Efes and Tuborg. While ‘Raki’ is the national aperitif served with ice and water.

Essentials to Bring & Internet

-Face mask/cover and hand sanitiser enough for your personal use throughout the trip – See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/

-Travel Documents: Passport, Visa (if required), flight or transport ticket (and photocopies)

-Travel Talk Tour Voucher (printed or digital)Travel Insurance Policy (and photocopy)

-Personal medical kit and medicine

-Money (cash, credit card, travellers’ cheques)

-Power Adapter

-Reusable water bottle

-Ear plugs and eye mask

-Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

-Comfortable, closed walking shoes

-Wind/water proof jacket

-Warm clothes, hat, and gloves for cold weather

-Sandals, swimwear, shorts for warm weather

Internet Access

Free WIFI can be found throughout an abundance of cafes, shopping malls and restaurants in Turkey’s major cities and stopover, however quality of connection differs. While the Travel Talk Hotel accommodations almost always include WIFI, meaning there will be plenty of time to upload those travel pics and give your friends and family back home a call!

Culture, Religion and Etiquette

Turkish Culture has its share of interesting traditions that you are unlikely to find anywhere else in the world. Due to its proximity to diverse cultures and its vast history, you will discover remarkable samples of Ancient Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman influences around the country. Depending upon the region of Turkey you are travelling to, cultural practices dialect vary significantly. Turkish are renowned for being extremely friendly, polite and hospital. However, it is important to remember that while most Turkish cities are modern metropolises, Turks can still be quite traditional. The villages of Turkey tend to be more modest, with the sale of alcohol less common. Turkish bathhouses (Hamams) and Coffee Houses are popular pasttimes and traditions amongst the locals while nightclubs and bars are the standard form of entertainment for young Turks in the big cities.

Turkish people are seen to be polite and formal with both greetings and attire. The vast majority of the population in Turkey identify as Muslim and Islamic holidays, such as Ramadan, are recognised as public holidays. It is important to be aware and respectful of local customs. Please feel welcome to speak with your tour leader if you have any questions regarding local customs, religions, or appropriate clothing to wear while on tour. With this in mind, we strongly recommend wearing clothing that covers both from your shoulders to knees when visiting or nearby mosques and other religious complexes in Turkey. It is also recommended that female travellers carry a scarf on them to wear when visiting mosques.

Solo Travellers

We have many solo travellers joining our tours. Solo travellers will be roomed with another traveller of the same gender. If you would like a private solo room, please contact us. You may see out solo travels page for more details.

Rules to Follow

We are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), bullying or harassment involving customers, partners, Travel Talk staff or locals. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a passenger are forbidden.

We will not tolerate any illegal activity, including but not limited to: use and possession of illegal drugs, trespassing, and disrupting public order. If you consume alcohol, please ensure that you drink responsibly and follow the local laws and regulations.

You must follow the advice of your tour leader and local officials regarding health and safety measures. We operate all tours under Safe Travels protocols for the wellbeing of our passengers, staff and communities visited. Please ensure that you have read the https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/ and are fully prepared for your trip.

If someone is acting inappropriately regarding these matters, please notify your tour leader immediately or contact us on the emergency contact number provided below.

Your tour leader has the right to remove from the group anyone not abiding by these rules, with no right of compensation or refund. See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/booking-terms/

Please remember that our travellers come from different parts of the world and will have various needs and preferences. Be understanding and patient with your fellow travellers, and always strive to be on time.

Responsible Travel

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 you, we strive to make a positive impact on local people and economies, respecting the local culture, environment, social fabric and customs; encouraging respectful and meaningful cross-cultural exchange. Read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/responsible-travel/