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Turkey Tours & Travel Packages 2025/2026
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Top Turkey Attractions
Turkey offers a plethora of diverse experiences for every type of traveler. From exploring ancient ruins and stunning landscapes to indulging in world-class cuisine and engaging with local traditions, our Turkey tours promise unforgettable adventures that cater to all interests and preferences.
- Gazing in awe at the massive Ottoman Empire treasures in Istanbul’s Topkapi Museum
- Marveling over the Byzantine architecture of Hagia Sophia
- Dining at a rooftop restaurant situated between Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Istanbul, as the sun sets and the iconic, exotic structures are illuminated
- Kayak above the underwater, ancient ruins of Kekova, off Turkey’s south coast along the Lycian Trail
- Riding the ferries across the Bosphorus while crossing from Europe to Asia or vice versa
- Wandering through the seemingly endless market stalls in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar
- Attending a Sufi dance performance of whirling dervishes twirling and swaying for hours on entrancing rhythms of Sufi music
- Relishing the fresh grilled fish sandwich sold at a sidewalk stand near the Bosphorus
- Taking a hot air balloon ride over the amazing landscape at Cappadocia
- Staying overnight in a Cappadocia cave hotel in Göreme
- Taking a self-driving tour through the mountains of Kaçkar, Karçal, and Yalnızçam
- Exploring the old town Antalya, Turkey’s largest beach resort, situated on a dramatic cliffside perch overlooking the Mediterranean
- Exploring the underground city of Derinkuyu and its cave system
- Visiting the ancient city of Ephesus, one of Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a frequent cruise-ship stop
- Sailing down the Turkish coast in a traditional gulet, a two- or three-masted wooden vessel
- Soaking in the hot springs at Pamukkale and exploring the nearby Hierapolis ruins
- Touring the historic Basilica Cistern underground colonnade
Turkey Tours & Travel Guide
Turkey Attractions & Landmarks Guide
Turkey, officially the Republic of Türkiye, straddles two continents — Europe and Asia — but even the smaller European section, on the western side of the Bosporus, has a strong Middle Eastern feel.
The star attraction of the European side is Istanbul, with its iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
The Asian side features classical ruins at Ephesus, cave dwellings at Cappadocia, and beach resorts along the coasts.
Istanbul alone is worth the trip to this fascinating country that spans two continents. Greater Istanbul spans two continents, with ferry boats making continual trips across the Bosphorus between the western and eastern sides of the city.
Why Take a Turkey Tour?
Turkey is a treasure trove of East and West culture, history, archaeology, adventure, and cuisine — a delightful way to experience both Europe and the Middle East.
Among the top reasons to consider Turkey for a small-group guided tour are the incredible hospitality of the Turkish people, the legendary cuisine, the ancient sites (including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites), varied and awe-inspiring landscapes, historic landmarks, and a gorgeous Mediterranean shoreline.
The country sits on the border of Europe and Asia and, as a 99 percent Muslim nation, is home to a huge number of religious sites (it continues to be a top place of pilgrimage for both devout Muslims and Christian pilgrims).
Among travelers’ favorite experiences in Turkey are cruising the Black Sea, learning to cook baklava, watching the sunset over the Blue Mosque, swimming in blue lagoons and soaking in thermal hot springs, taking a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia, exploring underground cave systems and much more.
Turkey is a must-visit destination for history buffs, foodies, lovers of culture and tradition, and adventure travelers. Soak it all up on a thoughtfully planned, immersive Turkey itinerary from a reputable tour operator — and consider adding other Eastern European countries, such as Slovenia and Croatia, to make it a grand tour!
Why Join a Guided Tour to Turkey?
Turkey is best explored with a guided tour instead of planning an itinerary yourself. The country is so unique, fascinating, diverse, and different from any other European country that it’s worth researching a tour operator who can help you navigate your way through and ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
Today’s most reputable guided tours of Turkey won’t herd you around with 50 other travelers. Instead, you can choose from small-group tour companies focusing on senior travel, millennial travel, adventure travel, cuisine, culture, history, photography, and more.
You’ll travel with like-minded people from around the world, guided by local residents and experts eager to share the best of Turkey with you with our exclusive turkey tour packages.
Additionally, with smaller groups and the cache the tour company can provide, you’ll get behind-the-scenes sightseeing privileges and access to more intimate dining establishments and characterful accommodations.
Whether you’re seeking a two-week, all-inclusive luxury tour package that highlights the best of Turkey or need help for a weekend excursion to Istanbul, joining a small-group tour will not only likely save you money over making the arrangements yourself but take away the headache of said arrangements and any ensuing problems that may arise.
Top Museums in Turkey
Discover the many excellent private and state museums the Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism runs. These museums are a treasure trove for history, art, and culture lovers and are often included in tour packages focused on Turkish culture.
The Best State Museums in Turkey
Turkey's state museums offer a deep dive into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. These museums house some of the most significant artifacts and exhibits, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of Turkey’s past and present.
- Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul: Once the primary residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace Museum showcases opulent rooms, sacred relics, and imperial collections. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur and intrigue of the Ottoman Empire.
- Hagia Sophia Museum, Istanbul: Originally a cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Its stunning mosaics and immense dome have captivated visitors for centuries, reflecting Istanbul's diverse religious history.
- Mevlana Museum, Konya: Dedicated to the famous poet and mystic Rumi, the Mevlana Museum is a spiritual and cultural landmark. The museum houses Rumi’s tomb and various artifacts related to his life and the Mevlevi Sufi order.
- Istanbul Archaeological Museum, Istanbul: Home to over a million artifacts, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum offers an extensive collection ranging from ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to Mesopotamian artifacts. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, Ankara: This museum in Ankara is renowned for its impressive collection of artifacts from the Paleolithic era to the Ottoman period. It provides an in-depth look at the diverse cultures and civilizations that have shaped Anatolia.
The Best Private Museums in Turkey
Turkey’s private museums offer unique and specialized collections, often reflecting the personal passions of their founders. These museums provide intimate and curated experiences highlighting different aspects of Turkish culture and history.
- Sakip Sabanci Museum, Istanbul: Located in a beautiful mansion overlooking the Bosphorus, Sakip Sabanci Museum features an extensive collection of calligraphy, manuscripts, and fine arts. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions of international and Turkish artists.
- Rahmi Koc Museum, Istanbul: Dedicated to the history of transport, industry, and communications, the Rahmi Koc Museum is a fascinating place for those interested in engineering and technology. It showcases Turkey's history in these fields. Its exhibits include vintage cars, submarines, and aircraft.
- Istanbul Museum of Modern Art: As Turkey’s first modern art museum, it showcases contemporary Turkish art alongside international works. The museum’s dynamic exhibitions and educational programs make it a vibrant cultural hub in Istanbul.
- Pera Museum, Istanbul: Pera Museum is known for its Orientalist paintings, Anatolian weights and measures, and Kütahya tiles and ceramics. It offers a rich and diverse collection that highlights Turkey’s artistic heritage.
- Rezan Has Museum, Istanbul: Housed in a restored Byzantine building, Rezan Has Museum features archaeological finds and contemporary art. The museum's unique setting and diverse exhibits provide a fascinating blend of ancient and modern culture.
Discover Turkey’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Small-group tour operators specializing in Turkey typically include several of the country’s numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in their itineraries.
Among the top UNESCO cultural sites in Turkey, you’ll see:
- Great Mosque and Hospital of Divrigi, Sivas: This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and architectural grandeur. Built in the 13th century, it exemplifies Seljuk art and architecture and offers a glimpse into the region’s Islamic heritage.
- Historic Areas of Istanbul: The key landmarks of this area include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. These sites reflect the city’s rich history as a cultural crossroads between Europe and Asia, showcasing Byzantine and Ottoman architectural marvels.
- Hattusha, the Hittite Capital, Corum: The ancient capital of the Hittite Empire features impressive ruins, including city walls, temples, and royal residences. This archaeological site provides valuable insights into the Hittite civilization and its contributions to early history.
- Mount Nemrut, Adiyaman: Mount Nemrut is famous for its colossal statues and the tomb sanctuary of King Antiochus I. Located in southeastern Turkey, this UNESCO site offers a unique blend of Greek and Persian influences, with stunning sunrise and sunset views over the statues.
- Xanthos, Antalya: This ancient Lycian city is known for its monumental tombs and inscriptions. It played a significant role in Lycian history and mythology, and its well-preserved ruins illustrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Archaeological site of Troy, Canakkale: Immortalized in Homer’s epic poems, this site reveals layers of ancient settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. Visitors can explore the remnants of this legendary city and its significance in both history and mythology.
Turkey’s UNESCO cultural/natural sites include:
- Goreme National Park and Rock Sites of Cappadocia: This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and ancient churches. The stunning landscape of Cappadocia, shaped by volcanic activity, offers visitors an otherworldly experience.
- Hierapolis, Pamukkale: Hierapolis-Pamukkale combines ancient ruins with natural thermal springs, creating a unique UNESCO World Heritage site. The travertine terraces of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis attract visitors for their beauty and historical significance.
The newest UNESCO treasures in Turkey include:
- Ephesus, Izmir: Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, featuring landmarks like the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman urban life and early Christian history.
- Diyarbakir Fortress: The massive black basalt walls of Diyarbakir Fortress are a testament to the city’s strategic importance throughout history. It encompasses various historical periods, from Roman to Ottoman, reflecting a rich cultural heritage.
- Archaeological Site of Ani, Kars: Ani, once a thriving medieval city, is known for its well-preserved ruins, including churches, mosques, and city walls. Located on the Turkish-Armenian border, Ani offers a poignant glimpse into the region’s diverse historical influences.
- Aphrodisias, Aydin: Aphrodisias, named after the goddess Aphrodite, is an ancient city famed for its sanctuary, sculptures, and well-preserved stadium. The site offers a deep insight into Greco-Roman art and architecture.
- Gobeklitepe, Sanliurfa: This is one of the world’s oldest temples, dating back to the 10th millennium BCE. With its massive stone pillars and intricate carvings, this archaeological site has transformed our understanding of early human society.
Turkey’s Top Religious Sites
One of the top draws for travel to Turkey is its religious sites and faith centers. Among Istanbul's most popular Islamic religious sites are Topkapi Palace, Eyup Sultan Mosque and Tomb, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Blue Mosque.
For those who would like to explore the Jewish traditions in Turkey, Izmir is a must-see. This is the only city in the world with many synagogues in medieval Spanish architectural style clustered together, creating a unique architectural complex.
Guided tours of Istanbul focusing on Jewish history include visits to the Ancient Ephesus Synagogue, the Beth Israel Synagogue, and the Rosh Ha-Har Synagogue, among others. Istanbul is home to several Jewish sacred sites, so make sure your tour includes visits to the Jewish Museum of Turkey.
Christians consider Turkey the second holy land, although it’s a minority religion in the country. Christianity is noted in its stunning sacred sites, including almost 240 churches.
Among the most well-known sacred Christian sites in Turkey are St. Nicholas’ birthplace and church in Antalya, Ancient Nicaea in Bursa, the early Christian settlement in Cappadocia, and the Seven Churches of the Revelation (Ephesus, Pergamum, Smyrna, Laodicea, Sardis, Philadelphia and Thyatira).
What to Know About Turkey’s Whirling Dervishes
A top bucket list item for a Turkey vacation is seeing a whirling dervish performance. This iconic dance is based on Sufism and the Mevlevi Order, which was first formed in Konya, Turkey, in 1312.
What’s a Sufi? A Sufi is a practitioner of Sufism, a mystical Islamic belief system focused on the inward search for God and the cultivation of spiritual closeness to the divine.
Sufis are often associated with the 13th-century Sufi Muslim mystic and poet Jalaluddin Rumi, who first created the whirling dervish ceremony as a form of meditation.
If you simply can’t leave Turkey without experiencing the whirling dervishes, a few to look for include:
- Galata Mevlevihanesi, Istanbul: This is Istanbul’s first Sufi lodge, where you’ll find informative exhibits, art, photographs, Sufi instruments, and more, as well as weekly whirling dervish performances (Sundays).
- Sirkeci Train Station, Istanbul: The Oriental Railway built this striking station on the European side of Istanbul in 1890. Whirling dervishes perform several days a week in the evening.
- Hodjapasha, Sirkeci: A former hammam with a visually interesting whirling dervish show, complete with exhibits and a performance.
Turkey’s Top Ancient Cities and Archaeological Sites
One of Turkey's biggest draws for tourism is its wealth of ancient ruins and impressive archaeological treasures. Anatolia, the land that is Turkey today, has a history of more than 10,000 years and is the origin of countless civilizations and empires.
Your in-depth guided tour of Turkish history will unveil the marks these cultures have left on the region over time.
Turkey’s most visited ancient cities near the Aegean Sea include Ephesus, Kaunos, Knidos, Letoon, Pergamum, and Teos.
Near the Mediterranean, must-see ancient cities include Aspendos, Olympos, Perge, Phaselis, Termessos, and Xanthos.
In central Anatolia, visit the underground cities of Cappadocia, and in eastern and southeastern Anatolia, look for tours of the Ani ruins, the Dara Mesopotamia ruins, and the Gobeklitepe Temple.
Istanbul’s Glories
Istanbul is rich in architectural and historic treasures. The city’s two iconic landmarks, the enormous Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia — a one-time Greek Orthodox basilica turned mosque and museum — stand near each other within easy viewing distance of the Bosphorus.
With their minarets and domes, especially when illuminated at night, the two help create as distinctive a skyline as any city in the world.
You could easily spend days examining the wealth of jewelry, china, costumes, and carvings at the Topkapi Palace Museum. Most of them date from the era of the old Ottoman Empire, which at one point dominated much of Europe and the Middle East. A jeweled dagger featured in the 1964 Peter Ustinov heist film Topkapi remains the top draw.
Beyond Istanbul
For the most comprehensive experience, look for Turkey travel tours beyond Istanbul. While Istanbul is undoubtedly a must-see Turkish city, there is so much more to experience throughout the country, which is roughly the size of Texas.
While Turkey is modernizing rapidly, its culture and tradition are sufficient to ensure an authentic experience wherever you travel.
Look for small-group tours of Turkey that include:
- Cappadocia: The city is famous for its unbelievable land formations, cave dwellings, and the opportunity to glide above it all by hot-air balloon. This is a popular activity in Cappadocia; up to 80 balloons take flight any morning.
- Aphrodisias: It’s an ancient city in homage to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty.
- Troy Ruins: The ruins of Troy, famously chronicled in Homer’s Iliad, offer a fascinating glimpse into the legendary city's ancient history and its role in epic Greek mythology.
- Pergamum: It’s home to Hellenistic ruins that overlook the town of Bergama in the Aegean region. Don’t miss the Pergamum Acropolis, Asclepion (spa) area, and Red Basilica.
- Turkish Riviera: The azure waters of Turkey’s southwest coast are where wooden boats day cruise from Bodrum, and swimming and lazing about are the most effort you might put into your day.
- Konya: The birthplace of Sufism and perhaps the most traditional place to see the whirling dervish — look for Turkey tours that allow for time to visit the Mevlana Museum to learn more about Rumi, Sufism and the former dervish school that used to be on the premises
- Kaş: It’s one of the most charming villages in Turkey, located on the Mediterranean coast. Visit Kas with a local guide to get the most out of your visit. They’ll be able to point out their favorite shops and restaurants and set up boat tours to Kalekoy Castle and the Sunken City of Kekova.
The Turkish Coast
Much of southwestern Turkey is lined with Aegean and Mediterranean Sea beach resorts, which are often packed with Europeans on holiday.
- Antalya: The largest is Antalya, whose old section of winding cobbled streets sits on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean and is the site of numerous boutique hotels and chic shops. Antalya is said to be the third most visited city in the world after Paris and London. This is mainly due to cruise ship stops and packaged flights from northern Europe.
- Kusadasi: It’s another popular resort on the Aegean coast, but many foreign visitors go there to see the nearby ruins of Ephesus, a 3,000-year-old Greek commercial center that was the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (a single column remains).
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Ephesus: This well-preserved Roman port city is famous for the Temple of Artemis (in Selçuk), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Take time to explore Selçuk, perfect for Turkey history buffs. The Basilica of St. John, where the youngest apostle is buried, is also here.
- Ephesus later played important roles in the Roman Empire and early Christianity, and the ruins of the House of the Virgin Mary are said to be the last home of Jesus’ mother.
The most striking ruin is probably the Library at Celsus, whose dramatic facade is still standing, though vast streets lined with ruins of temples and ancient house foundations can keep you interested for hours.
Cappadocia
Cappadocia, a World Heritage site in central Turkey’s Goreme Valley, has become a must-stop on many Turkish tour itineraries. Not only does it contain strange volcanic rock formations produced by age-old forces of wind and rain, but dwellings and even churches have been chiseled out of the soft rocks.
You can also find entire troglodyte cities connected by underground tunnels — some dating from as early as the 5th century AD. Ancient monks decorated many of the chapels with striking Byzantine art.
Pamukkale
Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Turkey's most mesmerizing natural wonders. It is known for its dazzling white terraces formed by the calcium-rich thermal springs.
The name Pamukkale translates to "Cotton Castle." This surreal landscape lives up to its name with its brilliant white travertine terraces cascading down the mountainside. These terraces are filled with warm, mineral-rich waters revered for their healing properties since ancient times.
Adjacent to this natural spectacle lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, founded as a thermal spa. Here, visitors can explore well-preserved ruins, including a grand theater, temples, and the extensive necropolis – the city of the dead — one of Turkey's largest.
Outdoor Adventure Travel in Turkey
If your idea of an excellent Turkey vacation includes more days on a trail, on a bike, or in the water than in a fancy hotel room, an active travel tour is for you.
Fortunately, Turkey has many outdoor, active opportunities for travelers who want to move, from multi-day treks along long-distance trails to horseback riding in Cappadocia.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to experience Turkey on an active travel small-group tour:
- Hike the Lycian Way: This renowned hiking trail is beloved for its amazing views of the Mediterranean, the limestone peaks of ancient Lycia, the ghost village of Kaya Köyü, the remote Seven Capes peninsula, the ruins of Sidyma, and so much more. Your hiking tour through this picturesque region of Turkey wanders from Ottoman routes to forested paths to ancient roads while offering a glimpse of traditional Turkish life.
- Horseback Ride in Cappadocia: Saddle up and take a horseback tour of the Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia, one of the world’s most dramatic and exciting landscapes. If you’ve experienced the Big Sky of Montana, you’ll love the similar vastness of this Asia region. Most horseback riding tours in Cappadocia will take a circular route into seldom-visited spots away from heavy tourist traffic.
- Walk the Carian Trail: This southwest coastal Turkey hiking trail is a bucket-list favorite of trekkers worldwide. Its 800 kilometers wind through the Mugla and Aydin provinces, following in the footsteps of the ancient Carian civilization. It’s one of the best hiking tours in Turkey to see traditional boat building, visit historical ruins, gaze out at the Aegean Sea, learn about the region’s agriculture, swim in turquoise waters, and experience a gorgeous Mediterranean climate.
- Cycle Along Turkey’s Southwest Coast: Cover miles of Turkish coastline and hinterland per day on a guided bike tour between Dalyan and Kas, perhaps combining your cycle trip with a walking tour of the Lycian Way.
- Try Kitesurfing: What to try something new on your Turkey trip? The best place to try kitesurfing in Turkey is Alaçati. Your outdoor adventure tour operator can bring you up to speed and help you sign up for a first-timer’s course. You’ll be soaring over the Aegean before you know it.
- Go Diving in Kas: Considered one of the best dive sites in the Mediterranean, Kas is a must for those who take their adventure travel under the waves. Even if it’s your first time, your tour guide can arrange certification. Explore rainbow-hued fish, caves, and rock formations under the glistening surface of the Mediterranean.
- Kayak Along the Lycian Coast: Guided kayak tours of the Lycian region in Turkey will take you around the remote Seven Capes peninsula, to white-sand Patara Beach, past caves and blowholes, and through the islands of Fethiye Bay, with plenty of opportunity to jump into the heavenly Mediterranean waters for a refreshing swim.
- Visit a Turkish Nature Park: There are countless protected nature parks throughout Turkey, perfect for outdoor activities. Depending on your interests, look for active travel companies in Turkey that utilize these picturesque spots for everything from angling and rafting to wildlife observation and mountain biking.
The opportunities for active adventure travel in Turkey are limitless. Take a yoga class facing the Aegean, hike one of the 22 long-distance hiking, biking, or horseback-riding trails throughout the country, or go mountain biking or rock climbing.
Upscale outdoor adventure tour companies specializing in Turkey have all the insider tips you’ll need to discover the country’s natural landscape on your terms and in the way you feel most comfortable.
Nature and Wildlife Attractions in Turkey
Beyond its whirling dervishes and Turkish Delight, beyond Istanbul and Cappadocia, Turkey is brimming with natural attractions and wildlife unlike anywhere else in the world. Discover the country’s 43 national parks and 300 wetland areas on a Turkish vacation focused on active travel, nature, and wildlife.
Among Turkey’s favorite national parks — and its most beautiful — are:
- Goreme: Explore the mysterious and captivating landscapes of Turkey’s Goreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia.
- Kackar Mountains: The Kackar Range is one of the best places in Turkey for ecotourism and a favorite of nature-loving travelers.
- Dilek Peninsula: Not only is the Diley Peninsula National Park breathtaking, but it is also one of Turkey’s most important natural heritage sites. Located in the Aydin province in the Aegean region, it is also a world heritage site.
Turkish Wetlands
Turkey is also home to more than 300 wetlands, making it the European and Middle Eastern country with the most wetlands. The country is located on the migration path between Europe, Asia, and Africa, so birdwatchers flock to the wetlands to view the birds resting from their long flights.
Ask your Turkey tour guide to point out some of the 460 bird species in the wetlands, many of which are hosted and protected by the country’s “Bird Sanctuary Project.”
Turkey’s natural landscapes are as popular with visitors as its cultural and religious landmarks. If venturing out into volcano country, thermal hot springs, beaches, and unique land formations is high on your must-see list, look for a Turkey vacation package that includes some of the following:
- Mount Erciyes in Cappadocia: This now-extinct volcano is in central Anatolia. Your small group’s local Turkish guide can help you navigate the mysterious lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia, famous for its fairy chimneys.
- Thermal Springs: Turkey is rich in thermal springs thanks to an ancient volcanic landscape. Tours focused on active adventure travel in Turkey will tell you where to see and soak in these healing waters.
- Pamukkale: With its gleaming white tiers over which blue hot springs cascade gently, Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Turkey’s most famous natural wonders. The ancient Romans living near Hierapolis visited the pools for their mineral-rich, healing properties.
- Mount Ararat: Adventure travelers on vacation in Turkey will love rugged, snow-capped Mount Ararat, the country’s highest mountain and source of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers.
- Aegean Sea: The Aegean region is one of the most photographed spots in Turkey, thanks to the flower-bedecked Butterfly Valley. Look for the rare Jersey tiger butterfly.
- Nemrut Lake: Turkey tours that visit Eastern Anatolia will highlight Nemrut Lake, the world’s second-largest crater lake and Turkey’s largest. There are steam chimneys, ice caves, hot and cold water to plunge into and soak in, a unique caldera landscape, and excellent birdwatching.
Turkey is home to several animal species, many of whom originated here. Wildlife lovers on tour in Eastern Europe will want to ask about the opportunity to view wild Yilki horses, red deer, Mediterranean monk seals, Caretta Caretta turtles, Northern bald ibis birds, Anatolia leopards, and Anatolian wild sheep.
Food Tours in Turkey
You’ve made it to Turkey… what to eat? Traditional Turkish cuisine tops the country's many highlights your expert tour guide will enthusiastically share. There’s no cookie-cutter description of Turkish food — instead, you’ll find a melting pot of flavors stemming from Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Balkan region.
Here are a few of the most well-known staples of Turkish food:
- Kebaps — Grilled meat on a skewer, most likely lamb or beef, but chicken is also widely available.
- Döner — Meat mixed with local herbs and spices, then skewered and grilled vertically.
- Köfte meatballs — Typically ground lamb or mutton with breadcrumbs, onions, and spices; Izgara Köfte is a favorite, served with green peppers, dried red peppers, and rice or bread
- Mantı dumplings — Doughy dumplings filled with ground lamb or beef, onion, and spices
- Sade pilav — A popular side dish, essentially rice and tiny pasta (şehriye) cooked with various vegetables, meats, or chickpeas, with a variety of spices
- Cacık — A refreshing blend of cucumber, yogurt, garlic and mint
- Leblebi — roasted chickpeas with salt, spices, cloves or candy-coated
- Meze platter — Small dishes or appetizers like dips, purees, salads, meatballs, pastries, cheeses, olives, and more
- Imam Bayildi — Entire eggplant stuffed with onion, garlic and tomato
- Börek pastries — ranging from plain to spinach-filled to meat-filled
- Pide — slightly leavened bread similar to pizza, with a variety of meat and cheese toppings
- Mısır — boiled or grilled corn on the cob
- Balık ekmek — fish bread — truly, it’s grilled or fried fish stuffed inside a large hunk of bread
- Simit — a savory sesame-covered roll (think: Turkish bagel)
- Midye dolma — stuffed mussels
- Kokoreç — grilled sheep intestines with a heavy dose of spices, roasted on a skewer
Souvenirs to Buy in Turkey
What’s a long-anticipated tour of Turkey if you don’t bring home a piece of nostalgia to remind you of your fantastic and enriching days spent visiting this fascinating Eastern European country?
Look for these fun, quirky, and traditional items to buy when you’re in Turkey:
- Turkish Delight: Don’t head home from your Turkey vacation without these traditional sweet treats. Choose from several flavors, including rose, cinnamon, and lemon, of this gummy treat. If you’re in Istanbul, stop by Hacir Bekir Efendi’s family shop — the original inventor of the Turkish delight.
- The Evil Eye (Nazar Boncugu): Ward off bad luck with this ancient Turkish talisman. If your Turkey tour visits Nazarkoy in western Izmir, you can see the workshops where many of these evil eyes are manufactured.
- Turkish Carpets: Bring a long-lasting Turkish carpet home to remind you of your travels to Turkey. Ask your tour guide for tips before shopping because many copycat carpets are flooding the market. Your expert local guide can point you in the right direction and help you navigate the traditional carpet choices. Given the high price tags, it’s worth it to take the time to do your research.
- Cappadocia Clay Pottery: Many Turkey vacation packages visit the intriguing Cappadocia region — shop for red clay pottery, particularly in Avanos on the Red River town. Want to give pottery a try yourself? Look for Cappadocia tours that include a trip to a workshop where you can sit down with the artists and provide the potter’s wheel a spin yourself.
- Apple Tea: The Rize area is Turkey’s tea capital, and although apple tea is a favorite Turkish souvenir, the locals drink black tea. Turkish coffee is another go-to souvenir for caffeine lovers — grab one of the small copper cups the locals use for it.
- Spices: You’ll be trying a whole range of Turkish cuisine during your small-group tour and, no doubt, looking forward to replicating the flavors when you return home. Shop at the Spice Market and Istanbul Grand Bazaar for red chili flakes and sumac. Just don’t fall for saffron because most of what you’ll find stems from Iran, not Turkey.
- Gourd Lamps: Less likely to break in your luggage than mosaic glass lamps, gourd lamps are readily available for purchase along the Turkish coastline and are made from dried squash, then decorated with sparkling jewels.
Turkey Reviews & Ratings
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Highlights of Turkey
Wonderful introduction to this huge and beautiful country. Ancient history, beautiful coastlines, Turkish Baths, friendly people, gorgeous food The Wow moment was t...
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A great trip!
Overall, the trip was wonderful! It was my first time doing a trip where we covered so many kilometres which made it tiring, but I expected that at the outset. Som...
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A varied tour...history,culture,swimming,great food...what more could you want!
This was our ninth Exodus tour and it didn’t disappoint. We saw so much in 2weeks..Gallipoli,Cannukale, Pammukale,Ephesus,Troy,Antalya and Kas, Capadoccia........t...
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Great mix!
This trip is a great mix of man-made and nature-made. If you like ruins and nature it's an amazing trip! The scenery was great, you can't get bored and the ruins i...
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A Comprehensive Tour
This is a very interesting and comprehensive tour of all the major sites in Turkey though with 11 different hotels in 14 days it's not particularly "leisurely" and...
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Travelstride membership is absolutely free. You receive special benefits including saving up to $700 on select tours with top tour operators. The main requirement is to write a review after your trip to access the savings.
3. Can I trust the tour operator and trip reviews on Travelstride?
Yes. Travelstride has both expert reviews, written by Travelstride staff and local experts as well as traveler reviews written by people like you who have used the company and traveled to that destination.
4. What does ‘Stride Preferred’ mean?
Stride Preferred and Stride Premier are status categories to help you sort quickly through known and reliable travel companies. Since there are thousands of tour operators around the globe, Preferred or Premier badges are awarded to companies that Travelstride has determined meet the highest standards of professionalism, customer satisfaction, and quality.