Grand Turkey Tour

Turkey rewards travelers who keep moving. This 14-day private tour links Istanbul’s mosques and palaces with Cappadocia’s rock valleys, Pamukkale’s white terraces, Ephesus, Troy, the Lycian coast, and Bursa. I like the broad reach of the route and the fact that your transport, admissions, airport pickup, hotels, and daily planning are handled for you. I also like the private format, which gives your group a more personal experience than a large coach tour. The main consideration is the pace: you see a huge amount of Turkey, but several days involve long transfers and short visits.

The $6,250 per-person price is substantial, so this works best if you value convenience, private guiding, and 4 to 5-star accommodation over independent travel. Breakfasts are included, and the tour has earned a 4.8 rating with 97 percent recommendation, but you should confirm exactly which meals, domestic transfers, and hotel nights are covered before paying.

Key points at a glance

• Two very different faces of Istanbul: Explore Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Suleymaniye Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorus, Princes’ Islands, and Pierre Loti Hill.
• Cappadocia gets two full sightseeing days: You visit Goreme, the Open-Air Museum, Paşabağ, Devrent Valley, Uçhisar, Pigeon Valley, Kaymakli, Derinkuyu, and Ihlara Valley.
• The classical sites are well represented: Ephesus, Pergamum, Troy, Aspendos, Perge, Hierapolis, and the Gallipoli battlefields all appear on the route.
• The Mediterranean coast adds welcome variety: Kas, Kaputaş Beach, Kalkan, Saklikent, Ölüdeniz, and Antalya break up the museum-and-ruins schedule.
• Personal service is a major part of the value: Past trips have praised guides and staff including Ibrahim, Muhammet, Inci, Enver, Omer, Murat, and Guven for care, organization, and help with restaurant language.
• This is private, but not slow: Only your group participates, yet the itinerary still packs many stops into each day.

Istanbul begins with imperial treasures

Your arrival day is deliberately light. Sunnova Travel Agency meets you at Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, then takes you to your Istanbul hotel. The listed welcome program centers on Taksim Square, with a possible Taksim and Ortakoy city outing if you arrive early enough.

That flexibility is useful after a long flight. Taksim gives you a quick sense of modern Istanbul, while Ortakoy adds a waterside setting near the Bosphorus. Since this is described as a welcoming day, do not expect the full sightseeing program until the next morning.

Day 2 is the heavy historical day. Topkapi Palace deserves its two-hour visit. This former Ottoman court complex gives you a strong introduction to imperial life, with courtyards, palace rooms, and views toward the water. Admission is included, which helps at a site where a self-arranged visit can become costly.

Hagia Sophia follows with an hour inside the Grand Mosque. The building’s long religious history makes it one of Istanbul’s essential stops, but dress and behavior should respect its current use as a mosque. The Blue Mosque is free to enter and adds another major Ottoman landmark, while Suleymaniye Mosque offers a calmer architectural stop with only 30 minutes scheduled.

The Grand Bazaar gets two hours, enough time to wander without treating shopping like a military operation. You can browse jewelry, textiles, leather, ceramics, and souvenirs, but keep your bargaining muscles relaxed. The stop is also a practical chance to buy gifts before the long road journey begins.

Eyup Sultan Mosque and Pierre Loti Hill shift the day toward the Golden Horn. The mosque is an important religious site, and Pierre Loti Hill gives you a broad view over the water. The schedule is generous, but Day 2 is still crowded with seven stops. If you want longer inside Topkapi or Hagia Sophia, ask your guide how much flexibility is possible.

Bosphorus views and the city’s European side

Day 3 puts Istanbul on the water. The two-hour Bosphorus boat tour is one of the tour’s best choices because it shows how the city works geographically. You see Istanbul’s European and Asian sides from a moving viewpoint, with waterfront neighborhoods, bridges, and palaces spread along the strait.

Princes’ Islands add a change of pace. The visit lasts two hours and is listed as free admission. The itinerary does not specify which island or the exact boat arrangement, so confirm that detail before departure. Taksim Square and Istiklal Caddesi complete the day with one hour each. Istiklal is the city’s famous pedestrian street, and it is a good place to watch everyday Istanbul life after several days centered on monuments.

The Istanbul portion is thoughtfully divided between major sights, water, shopping, and ordinary city streets. That balance matters. You are not only moving from one ticketed site to another.

Cappadocia’s valleys and underground cities

Day 4 shifts to Cappadocia, though the supplied schedule does not explain the transfer from Istanbul. Ask in advance how you move between the two regions and whether the transport is by private vehicle or another arrangement.

Cappadocia begins with the chance to watch hot-air balloons from your hotel terrace or the Goreme View terrace. A balloon flight is not included, but the company can arrange one if requested early. That warning matters because balloon places often require advance planning, and weather can affect flights.

The day’s sightseeing covers the core of the Goreme area. The Goreme Open-Air Museum brings you into rock-cut churches and a compact group of historic sites. Paşabağ is known for its unusual mushroom-shaped rock formations, while Devrent Valley is a short stop for distinctive natural shapes and views.

Uçhisar Castle provides a high point over the region, and Pigeon Valley adds another scenic viewpoint. Most stops last only 30 minutes, so you will get a strong overview rather than long walks in each valley. Wear shoes suitable for uneven ground and keep water close, especially in warm weather.

Day 5 goes underground. Kaymakli and Derinkuyu are both included, with an hour at each. These subterranean cities are fascinating, but narrow passages and low ceilings can make them uncomfortable for anyone who dislikes tight spaces. Seeing both gives you useful comparison, although some people may find the second visit repetitive.

Ihlara Valley gets one hour, which allows a taste of its canyon setting without turning the day into a full hike. The route then continues to Sultanhani Caravanserai for 20 minutes. This old roadside inn connects the sightseeing with the practical story of long-distance trade across central Anatolia.

Konya brings faith, art, and Ottoman-era towns

Day 6 is based around Konya, home of the Mevlana Museum. The museum is linked with Jalal al-Din Rumi and the Whirling Dervish tradition, making it one of the most meaningful cultural stops on the route. The visit lasts an hour, so you have time to consider the setting rather than simply snap a photograph.

The Ince Minare Museum and Karatay Medrese Museum each receive 30 minutes. These shorter visits focus on Islamic art and architectural details. Konya Archaeological Museum adds 45 minutes and broadens the story beyond the city’s Islamic heritage.

Alaaddin Hill closes the day with 45 minutes outdoors. This is a useful pause after several enclosed museums. The Konya schedule is less frantic than some earlier days, though four museum-oriented stops may feel heavy if you prefer scenery to artifacts.

Antalya links Roman ruins with the sea

Day 7 moves into Antalya and its surrounding sites. Aspendos is the star, especially its remarkably preserved theater. One hour lets you appreciate the structure and its setting, though history fans may wish for more time.

Perge receives 90 minutes. Its streets, columns, and ruined public buildings give you a sense of how a Roman city was laid out. The combination of Aspendos and Perge is strong, but expect heat and exposed walking surfaces.

Lower Duden Waterfalls provide a short natural break. Then you enter Kaleici, Antalya’s old quarter, before seeing Hadrian’s Gate and the Yivliminare Mosque. The final three stops are brief, so think of them as a quick orientation to Antalya rather than a slow old-town exploration.

The Lycian coast is the tour’s scenic reset

Day 8 is one of the most varied days. In Kas, you see the yacht harbor and coastline, then continue to Kaputaş Beach and Kalkan. These stops bring bright water, steep coastal views, and small-town atmosphere after a run of archaeological sites.

Saklikent National Park adds a more rugged setting. The visit lasts an hour, and the park can involve uneven surfaces and water depending on what you choose to do. The route continues to Ölüdeniz and its famous blue lagoon, followed by Lycian rock tombs.

This is a lot for one day, and the short stops mean you should not expect beach time in the traditional sense. Still, the mix of harbor, beach, canyon, lagoon, and ancient tombs is excellent for breaking up the historical schedule.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis deserve your attention

Day 9 focuses on Pamukkale, where mineral-rich thermal water has formed white travertine terraces on the hillside. The visit lasts an hour, followed by two hours at Hierapolis, the ancient city above the pools.

This pairing works well. Pamukkale gives you the striking natural sight, while Hierapolis supplies the Roman setting and a better sense of why the location mattered. Cleopatra’s Pools are included as a 20-minute viewing stop, and the ancient theater gets another 30 minutes.

The white terraces can be dazzling in strong sun. Bring sun protection and expect some walking. The itinerary gives Hierapolis more time than the pools, which is a sensible choice for anyone who wants more than a quick photograph.

Ephesus is the classical high point

Day 10 is packed, but Ephesus is the reason for it. You get two hours in the ancient city, enough to see major streets and monumental remains while still allowing time for your guide to explain the site.

The House of the Virgin Mary comes first, followed by Ephesus. The Temple of Artemis is a brief stop, and the Ephesus Museum receives an hour. The museum helps put smaller sculptures and objects into context after you have seen the ruins themselves.

Kusadasi Castle and the marina offer a short coastal introduction. The Cave of the Seven Sleepers closes the day with another historical and religious site. The schedule includes seven stops, so you should be ready for a full day. If Ephesus is your priority, ask whether any minor stop can be shortened to protect your time there.

Pergamum, Troy, and Gallipoli

Day 11 continues north with Pergamum, where you spend an hour among the remains of an important ancient city. The route then reaches the Troy Museum and Troy itself. The museum visit is only 30 minutes, and the archaeological site gets 40 minutes, so this is more of a focused introduction than a slow exploration.

Çanakkale City Center appears as a one-minute stop in the schedule, likely a brief orientation or photo pause. That timing is too short for meaningful sightseeing, so do not count it as a major attraction.

Day 12 is devoted to Gallipoli National Park and Anzac Cove. Three hours at the battlefield gives the subject proper weight, while the separate hour at Anzac Cove allows time for reflection. This part of the tour is not light sightseeing. It is a serious historical visit, especially for anyone connected to the First World War story.

Bursa closes the circuit

Day 13 visits Bursa’s Great Mosque, Green Mosque, the tombs of Osman and Orhan, and Koza Han. The mosque visits are short but important, and the tombs connect Bursa with the founding period of the Ottoman state.

Koza Han adds a commercial and architectural note. The day has only four stops, so it should feel less rushed than the Ephesus or Istanbul days. Bursa is a fitting final stop because it gives you one more look at Ottoman religious and civic life before returning to Istanbul.

The final day provides airport transfer based on your departure time. A possible local bazaar stop is offered if you need last-minute shopping. Since airport timing is never a place to gamble, tell the company your flight details clearly and keep the final morning simple.

What the $6,250 price buys you

At $6,250 per person, this is not a budget tour. Its value depends on how much you would otherwise pay for private transport, airport transfers, guides, hotel bookings, entrance tickets, and the time needed to coordinate a route across most of Turkey.

The tour includes all-inclusive transportation, complimentary breakfasts, and admission to many major sites. Four to five-star hotels are specified for at least the Istanbul stay, though you should ask for the full hotel list and confirm the standard in every city.

The private format is important. You are not assigned to a large group, and the schedule can potentially be adjusted around your interests. Past customers have praised the agency’s attention to individual needs, including custom routes, support for large groups, and help communicating in restaurants. Guides and staff such as Ibrahim, Muhammet, Inci, Enver, Omer, Murat, and Guven have received repeated praise for organization, care, and clear explanations.

Still, ask for a written list of inclusions. The information provided confirms breakfasts, transportation, many admissions, and pickup, but it does not clearly spell out lunch, dinner, balloon flights, or every internal transfer. Those details can change the real value of the package.

Who should book this Turkey itinerary?

I would recommend this tour to you if you want Turkey’s major highlights without managing a complicated chain of hotels, drivers, tickets, and regional connections. It suits couples, families, and private groups who value comfort and personal attention.

It is also a good match for history-focused visitors. You get Ottoman Istanbul, Roman cities, Lycian tombs, Troy, Gallipoli, Islamic museums, and sites tied to several faith traditions.

You should think twice if you prefer long stays in fewer places. The itinerary covers a lot of ground, and several stops last only 20 to 40 minutes. Independent visitors may also create a cheaper trip, especially if they are comfortable using public transportation and booking hotels themselves.

The route is generally suitable for most people, but underground cities, ancient ruins, valleys, and archaeological sites involve walking and uneven ground. Ask about the day-to-day driving times, since those are not provided.

Cancellation and practical details

Confirmation is sent within 48 hours, subject to availability. You can cancel for a full refund up to three full days before the experience begins. Cancellations or changes made later are not accepted for a refund.

The experience depends on good weather. If poor weather forces cancellation, you are offered another date or a full refund. The tour also requires a minimum number of participants, despite being private for your group, and a cancellation for that reason brings the choice of another date, another experience, or a full refund.

FAQ

Where does the Grand Turkey Tour begin?

The tour begins with pickup from Istanbul Airport or Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The first day is primarily an arrival and welcome day.

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 14 days, with sightseeing scheduled from Day 1 through Day 14.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. Only your group participates in the private tour or activity.

Are airport pickups included?

Pickup is offered from Istanbul Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport on arrival. Airport transfer is also arranged on the final day according to your departure time.

Are breakfasts included?

Yes. Complimentary breakfasts are included during the tour.

Are entrance tickets included?

Admission is included for many major sites, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, the Goreme Open-Air Museum, underground cities, Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Ephesus, Troy, Pergamum, and Gallipoli National Park. Some mosques, squares, bazaars, and viewpoints are listed as free.

Is a Cappadocia balloon flight included?

No. Balloon watching from a hotel terrace or Goreme View terrace is included in the sightseeing plan, but a balloon flight must be arranged separately and requested early.

Does the tour visit Ephesus?

Yes. Day 10 includes the Ancient City of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, the Temple of Artemis, the Ephesus Museum, and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers.

Can most people participate?

The tour information says most people can participate. The route includes underground cities, valleys, ruins, and other sites where walking may be required.

What happens if weather cancels the tour?

If poor weather causes cancellation, you are offered a different date or a full refund. The same choice applies if the minimum number of participants is not met.

Should you book the Grand Turkey Tour?

Book it if you want to see a great deal of Turkey in two weeks and prefer someone else to handle the moving parts. The strongest reasons are the private setup, the wide range of sites, the included admissions, and the repeated praise for personal care from guides including Ibrahim and Muhammet.

Before booking, get the transport plan, hotel list, meal details, and optional-cost list in writing. If you accept the fast pace and the high price, this is a powerful introduction to Turkey, from Istanbul’s imperial monuments to Cappadocia’s rock valleys, the Mediterranean coast, Ephesus, Troy, Gallipoli, and Bursa.