The Best of Turkey - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the main focus of 'The Best of Turkey' tour?

  This trip is ideal for travelers who want to experience as much of Turkey’s stunning scenery and fascinating history as possible, including WWI battlefields, ancient Greek and Roman cities, and unique natural wonders, ending with time to explore Istanbul.

• What is the age range for participants on this tour?

  The tour is suitable for travelers aged 12 to 100 years old.

• How large are the tour groups typically?

  Group sizes range from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 15 participants, with an average of 10 people.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for 7 nights, often small, family-run establishments or pensions. These accommodations are typically clean, safe, simple, and centrally located, though some may not have elevators or air-conditioning.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Seven breakfasts are included in the tour. Other meals (lunches and dinners) are generally not included to provide flexibility in dining choices, allowing you to experience the vast array of local cuisine.

• What is the physical activity level for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage for a minimum of 15-20 minutes.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes a mix of private air-conditioned vans, planes (for internal flights), and walking. Public buses in Turkey are noted as comfortable, resembling 'Greyhound' type coaches with reclining seats and air conditioning.

• What key attractions and historical sites are included in the tour?

  The tour includes guided visits and entrance fees to the Gallipoli battlefields (including ANZAC Cove, war cemeteries, and Lone Pine), the legendary city of Troy, ancient Ephesus, and the remarkable white cliffs and ancient city of Hierapolis in Pamukkale. An Istanbul city walking tour and an internal flight are also part of the inclusions.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, there are many optional activities available at an extra cost. These include an Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise, visits to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Spice Bazaar, and Basilica Cistern in Istanbul. Other options include an Ayvalik Boat Tour, visiting Şirince village for local wine tasting, and a traditional Selçuk cooking class or visits to St. John's Basilica.

• What is the local currency in Turkey and how should I handle money?

  The local currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are available in main cities and generally accept Visa and Mastercard. It is advisable to carry both card types if possible. Cash (new Euros, British Pounds, or US Dollars) is recommended for emergencies and can be easily exchanged to local currency.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD200,000). Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects is strongly recommended.

• What are the local customs regarding dress, especially when visiting religious sites?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, modest dress is required, meaning shoulders and knees should be covered. Outside major tourist centers, local dress is often more conservative, and it's recommended that both men and women wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered as a sign of respect.

• Do solo travelers have to pay extra for a single room?

  No, solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex in twin or multi-share accommodation without an extra cost. If you prefer your own room, you must book the 'My Own Room' option, which guarantees a single room for all night stops, with Night 3 in Ayvalik being a specific exception if the option is booked.

• Are there laundry facilities available on the tour?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge. Alternatively, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can direct you to the nearest laundromat. It is suggested to bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap for handwashing.

• What health considerations should I be aware of for this trip?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Turkey. You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations well before departure. Carrying a basic first-aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements is recommended, as leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• What should I know if my trip falls during Ramadan?

  If your trip falls between February 17 and March 19, 2026, it will coincide with Ramadan, a month of fasting observed by Muslims. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules, but tours generally operate effectively, and food is available to non-Muslims. It is important to display increased cultural sensitivity, wear loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect.

• What is Planeterra, as mentioned by the tour operator?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support small community-owned businesses, integrating their projects into itineraries globally to support Indigenous people, empower women, and protect the environment.

• What is the tipping custom in Turkey?

  It is customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) for service providers like waiters if you are pleased with the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of your tour. Recommendations for tipping drivers range from €15-20 per week, and for your CEO, a guideline of €6-8 per person per day can be used.

• Who will be my guide on this tour?

  This trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the tour. The CEO will provide information, offer suggestions for activities and eating, and introduce you to local contacts. Local guides are also used at specific sites to offer more specialized historical and cultural knowledge.

• What should I know about safety and security during the trip?

  Like anywhere, major cities have areas safer than others; use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings. A neck wallet or money belt is strongly recommended for valuables. Your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel parts of the itinerary if necessary due to safety concerns. During free time, use good judgment when selecting optional activities, travel in small groups, and consider taxis for night excursions.