Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Lohanna Reis

13 excellent and different guided tours around Türkiye. Tours with a variety of prices, days, destinations, themes, age, luxury level, and adventure.

Türkiye has a rich historical heritage dating back thousands of years. For history lovers, it would be fascinating to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, walk through the streets of Istanbul and admire the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia. Türkiye offers an authentic experience, immersing visitors in a mix of eastern and western cultures, with majestic mosques alongside lively bazaars.

Furthermore, the natural beauty of Türkiye is simply breathtaking. From the snowy peaks of the Taurus Mountains to the paradisiacal beaches of the Mediterranean coast, the country offers an impressive diversity of landscapes. You’ll enjoy hiking along the famous Lycian Trail, exploring Cappadocia’s unique rock formations or sailing through the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. The nature of Türkiye is an invitation to adventure and discovery.

 

 

Finally, Turkish hospitality is legendary. Turks are known for their generosity, warmth and willingness to share their culture with visitors. I would love to try delicious Turkish cuisine, taste the famous Turkish tea and maybe even learn a few Turkish words to communicate with the locals. Turkey offers a complete tourist experience, combining history, nature and hospitality in a unique way.

In summary, choose to visit Türkiye because of its rich history, natural beauty and warm hospitality. The country offers a fascinating mix of culture, stunning scenery and welcoming people, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable tourist experience.

 

 

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Türkiye

Before delving into the main theme of this article, it’s relevant to highlight some of the most popular tourist destinations in Türkiye to facilitate your search for tours, itineraries, and excursions that match your preferences.

As mentioned before, Türkiye is a fascinating country. Below is a list of the top 10 tourist destinations and cities that deserve a visit in the country:

1. Istanbul: The most populous and vibrant city in Türkiye, featuring the famous Hagia Sophia Basilica, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
2. Cappadocia: Known for its unique rock formations, hot air balloon flights, underground cities, and rock-carved churches.
3. Ephesus: An ancient Greek and Roman city with the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, the Roman Theater, and the House of the Virgin Mary.
4. Pamukkale: A natural wonder with white travertine thermal pools, known as “cotton castles,” and the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis.
5. Antalya: A stunning coastal city with beautiful beaches, Roman ruins, the ancient city of Perge, and the Antalya Museum.
6. Bodrum: A popular summer destination with gorgeous beaches, Bodrum Castle, the ancient theater of Halicarnassus, and the Mausoleum of Mausolus.
7. Troy: The legendary site of the Trojan War, featuring archaeological ruins including city walls, the Roman Theater, and the Trojan Horse.
8. Pergamon: An ancient Greek city known for its great library, the Altar of Zeus, the Pergamon Theater, and the Temple of Trajan.
9. Konya: The city of whirling dervishes, home to the Mausoleum of Rumi, the Mevlana Museum, and the Alaaddin Mosque.
10. Ani: A ruined city near the Armenian border, renowned for its medieval churches, cathedrals, and fortified walls.

 

 

Is it better to travel independently or in group tours in Türkiye?

Regardless of the chosen option for traveling in Türkiye, whether independently or in a group tour, each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Opting for independent travel offers greater flexibility to plan your own itinerary and choose activities according to your preferences. You’ll have the freedom to decide when and how to engage in activities, allowing you to explore Türkiye at your own pace. Additionally, this option can be more budget-friendly, as you have control over expenses based on your choices.

 

 

However, independent travel requires detailed planning, including research on accommodation, transportation, and activities. It’s important to be prepared to handle potential challenges, such as language barriers, and take extra precautions regarding safety, especially in more remote areas.

On the other hand, a group tour with a guide provides the companionship of fellow travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. Additionally, traveling in a group can provide a sense of security, especially if accompanied by an experienced guide familiar with Türkiye.

However, this option might somewhat limit your freedom to explore Türkiye independently, as you’ll be following a predetermined itinerary and schedules set by the group.

In summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Türkiye depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, available time, budget, and comfort level when making your decision. Both options have their charms, and it’s up to you to decide which one aligns better with your travel style.

 

Pros of traveling on a group tour	Pros of traveling on your own
Company and opportunity to meet people with similar interests	Flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose activities
Peaceful and fun group experience	Autonomy to follow your own schedule
More safety when riding in a group, especially with an experienced local guide	Freedom to explore Iceland without having to stick to a schedule
Less need for planning and research as the tour already provides accommodation, transport and activities	Potential savings, since depending on the choices it can be cheaper
Possibility of access to places or activities that may be difficult or impossible to reach alone	Greater challenge and opportunity to learn and grow with the experience of planning and conducting your own trip

 

 

13 Best Tours and Itineraries to Explore Turkiye

Best Tours and Itineraries in Türkiye for Guided Small Group Adventures

 

   1. G Adventures – The Best of Turkey (8 Days)

This trip is perfect for travelers who are short on time but want to experience as much of Türkiye’s stunning landscapes and fascinating history as possible. Start your journey on the WWI battlefield of Gallipoli and delve into Greek myths as you explore the remains of the legendary city of Troy.

Then, walk the streets of Ephesus and discover its rich history. Be sure to visit the stunning white cliff pools at Pamukkale before taking a comfortable and convenient flight back to Istanbul. Upon your return, be refreshed and ready to explore the city’s charming bazaars, mosques and teahouses.

 

 

   2. G Adventures – Absolute Turkey (15 Days)

This comprehensive journey through Türkiye combines history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, and a vibrant and welcoming culture. Start your trip by exploring Istanbul’s palaces and mosques, before embarking on a surreal journey through the unique region of Cappadocia.

From the stunning waterfalls off the white cliffs of Pamukkale to the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, our experienced Local Experience Guides will point out the region’s hidden gems and ensure your trip remains bright in your memory long after you leave this crossroads between Asia and the Europe.

 

   3. Encounters Travel – Anatolian Adventure (10 Days)

Starting and ending in the bustling, cosmopolitan city of Istanbul, we explore both modern and ancient aspects of this great metropolis. Then it’s off to Gallipoli’s WWII battlefields and memorials, including ANZAC Bay.

Continuing south, we follow the Mediterranean coast and visit the ancient sites of Troy, Pergamum and the incredibly well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, before arriving at the coastal city of Kusadasi. We then head inland to see the impressive stepped limestone formations at Pamukkale, where we can enjoy a dip in the hot springs.

There are more historic ruins at Hierapolis, which we visit before we follow the ancient Spice Route towards central Türkiye, towards Konya, where we learn about the art of Sufi dance and celebrate the poetry of Rumi.

The journey into the picturesque landscape of Cappadocia stops at Sultanhani’s Caravanserai, and then we have several excursions to explore the amazing rock formations, cave churches, underground cities and the famous “fairy chimneys” of Cappadocia.

The tour concludes with a journey (or flight option) back to Istanbul, with a stop in the modern capital Ankara along the way.

 

 

   4. Intrepid – Walk the highlights of the Lycian Way (8 Days) 

 

Best Tours and Itineraries in Türkiye for Groups of Young Singles (18-35 Years Old)

 

   5. Contiki – Turkish Sailing (8 Days) 

The Turquoise Coast of Turkiye is a surprisingly underrated holiday destination. Charming seaside towns, bush-covered mountains and private coves with a sparkling blue sea are being completely ignored by the crowds.

This makes it perfect for us to explore. Imagine yourself aboard a traditional Turkish gulet boat, enjoying home-cooked meals and soaking up the sun between snorkeling dives.

 

 

   6. Contiki – Ultimate European + Turkey & Greek Islands (45 Days)

Two weeks of vacation is limited, and you’re not someone who settles for less. A month and a half will take you on a complete journey across Europe from end to end. From Romania to Switzerland to Istanbul to Amsterdam, you are about to explore a vast expanse of land.

With flights and ferries included, plus exciting activities that will take your breath away, this is truly the trip of a lifetime. And to crown it all, a visit to the beautiful lands of Türkiye will complete this unforgettable experience.

 

 

   7. Topdeck – Deep Delve: Turkey (13 Days)

TRIP VIBE = Iconic attractions and detailed adventures with a local Trip Leader. An engaging mix of continents, cultures and cuisines, Türkiye is everything you’ve heard about… and more.

Go beyond the balloon-filled skies of your Instagram account and discover the real Türkiye – from dining with a local Cappadocian family to wandering the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, paying your respects at Lone Pine or sailing the aquamarine waters off the coast clipped from Fethiye. Oh, and there’s a lot more to eat here than just Turkish Delight (Lokum) and kebabs.

 

 

Best Luxury and Comfort Tours and Itineraries in Türkiye for Small Groups with Guides

 

   8. Trafalgar – Best of Turkey Tour (14 Days) 

 

   9. Trafalgar – Highlights of Turkey (10 Days)

 

Tourradar’s Best Turkiye Tours (Best site to search and compare Turkiye tours of different durations, styles, prices, and operators)

 

   10. Tourradar – Classic Turkey (7 Days) 

 

   11. Tourradar – Mini Stay Kusadasi (4 Days)

 

   12. Tourradar – Aegean Explorer Tour (5 Days)

 

   13. Tourradar – Sultan Style Turkey (Luxury Private Tour) (12 Days) 

 

Concluding

Planning your next trip?

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 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.