Complete Turkey - 15 Days



Who is this trip for
Age range
12 - 100Start / End
- Istanbul
- Kars
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 15Meals included
19Highlights
- Immerse in Istanbul's Grandeur: Begin your epic journey in Istanbul, the iconic gateway between East and West, where vibrant bazaars, historic sites, and the option for a serene Bosphorus cruise unveil the city's unique charm and rich heritage.
- Witness Cappadocia's Dreamlike Vistas: Venture into the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where ancient "fairy chimney" formations create a breathtaking backdrop, offering the unforgettable experience of hot air balloons floating dreamily across the horizon or invigorating treks through stunning valleys.
- Journey Through Ancient History: Step back in time at hallowed grounds like Gallipoli, bearing witness to WWI battlefield tales, and explore the magnificent Roman ruins of Ephesus and the legendary city of Troy, where millennia of history come to life.
- Ascend to Mount Nemrut's Majestic Sunset: Experience a truly awe-inspiring sunset from the summit of Mount Nemrut, surrounded by colossal ancient statues, followed by a visit to the profoundly historic archaeological site of Gobekli Tepe.
- Discover the UNESCO Charm of Mardin: Wander through the enchanting, UNESCO-protected old town of Mardin, an open-air museum boasting perfectly preserved limestone architecture and fascinating historical landmarks, rich in cultural tapestry.
- Explore Eastern Turkey's Hidden Gems: Uncover the wonders of Eastern Turkey, from a serene boat ride to Akdamar Island on Lake Van and a visit to the ancient Van Citadel, to the breathtaking "City of 1001 Churches" in Ani, revealing a tapestry of untold stories and stunning vistas.
- Begin your adventure in Istanbul, the captivating crossroads where East meets West. Immerse yourself in a city brimming with historic sites, vibrant bazaars, and delectable cuisine, perhaps even cruising the majestic Bosphorus for breathtaking views that connect two continents.
- Step back in time as you explore the legendary city of Troy, where epic tales of heroes and battles unfold. Continue your historical journey by wandering through the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Ephesus, imagining life in a bustling ancient metropolis thousands of years ago.
- Marvel at the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, a truly otherworldly region where whimsical 'fairy chimneys' punctuate the horizon. Experience the magic with an optional hot air balloon ride at dawn, or explore the intricate Kaymakli underground city and picturesque valleys by bike or on foot.
- Ascend to the majestic Mount Nemrut to witness a truly unforgettable sunset, surrounded by colossal stone heads guarding an ancient funerary monument. Unearth even older secrets at Göbekli Tepe, an archaeological site that continues to redefine our understanding of early civilization.
- Discover Mardin, a UNESCO-protected 'open-air museum' where ancient limestone architecture and historic landmarks tell tales of centuries past. Then, journey to the vast expanse of Lake Van, Turkey's largest lake, and explore the captivating Akdamar Island with its historic church.
- Journey to the mystical 'City of 1001 Churches,' Ani, to explore its magnificent ancient religious buildings, palaces, and forts, echoing tales from a bygone era. Afterwards, take in the awe-inspiring views of the legendary Mount Ararat, believed to be the resting place of Noah's Ark, adding a touch of biblical wonder to your adventure.
- Begin your adventure in Istanbul, the enchanting gateway where East meets West. Immerse yourself in a city brimming with historic sites, vibrant bazaars, and delectable cuisine. Consider a pre-booked Bosphorus cruise to witness the city's iconic skyline from the water, truly capturing its unique grandeur.
- Journey to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, a region famed for its 'fairy chimney' rock formations. Spend two days exploring this surreal terrain, perhaps by hiring a bike or embarking on a thrilling hot air balloon ride at dawn for a truly unforgettable panoramic view.
- Step back in time as you explore the solemn battlefields of Gallipoli, a site of immense historical significance. Continue to the legendary city of Troy, uncovering its ancient secrets, before marveling at the magnificently preserved Roman ruins of Ephesus, a vibrant city from antiquity.
- Discover the ancient wonders of Eastern Turkey with a visit to Mount Nemrut. Witness colossal stone heads at sunset, an awe-inspiring spectacle, then delve into the profound history of Göbekli Tepe, one of the world's oldest known archaeological sites, predating Stonehenge.
- Experience the charm of Mardin, a UNESCO-protected open-air museum town, where historic limestone buildings tell tales of centuries past. Afterwards, unwind with a serene boat trip on Lake Van, Turkey's largest lake, and explore the captivating Akdamar Island.
- Conclude your journey in the historic city of Kars, where you'll explore the ancient Van Citadel and the majestic Ishak Pasha Palace. A final highlight is the mystical 'City of 1000 Churches,' Ani, an ancient Armenian capital, offering a breathtaking glimpse into a bygone era of architectural splendor.
Talk to a travel expert
Our experts are ready to perfect your trip with personalised advice on itineraries, transfers, and local tips.
Email UsCall Us: 0208 004 8886
Free Brochure
Uncover insider tips, see a packing list and view a detailed itinerary and accommodation information.
Summary
If you’ve got 15 days and a craving for adventure, this epic journey through Turkey is calling your name. Start in Istanbul — the iconic gateway between East and West — before venturing into the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, where hot air balloons float dreamily across the horizon. Walk the hallowed grounds of Gallipoli, where battlefield tales bring history to life, then trade the well-trodden path for hidden gems. Explore an open-air museum town with perfectly preserved limestone buildings, step into the ancient “City of 1000 Churches” in Ani, and stand atop the mighty Van Castle, a fortress etched into the landscape since the 9th century BC. A perfect blend of history, culture, and awe-inspiring scenery, this adventure through Turkey is one you won’t soon forget.
Itinerary
Day 1
Istanbul
Get the most out of your time in Istanbul by pre-booking the following activity to experience before your tour starts: Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night pre-tour.
And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. This activity is available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, while any of the optional activities listed can be booked independently upon arrival in Istanbul.
Day 2
Istanbul/Çanakkale
Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story.
It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly.
Day 3
Çanakkale/Selçuk
Visit the nearby historic and world-famous city of Troy and then visit the G-supported Cöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation, which support the local women who work in the workshop. Continue south to Selçuk for the next couple of nights.
Day 4
Selçuk/Izmir
Tour the nearby ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus for a glimpse into what life was like thousands of years before in this part of what is now Turkey. After driving back to Selçuk, learn all about how to make "Turkish pizza," called pide before transferring north to the city of Izmir for some exploration before hopping on the overnight train.
Day 5
Konya/Cappadocia
Transfer to Cappadocia for 2 days of exploring the surreal and spectacular landscapes of the area.
Day 6
Cappadocia
Outdoor enthusiast? Hire a bike to get around on two wheels or join your CEO on an optional trekking tour through one of the beautiful valleys of the region.
Day 7
Cappadocia/Istanbul
Continue on to İstanbul for the opportunity to finish up your sightseeing or get in some last minute shopping.
Day 8
Istanbul
Enjoy a full free day to explore Istanbul's many historic sites, vibrant bazaars and incredible restaurants. Head out in the evening for an optional dinner with your CEO and fellow travellers.
Day 9
Istanbul/Adiyaman
Transfer to the airport this morning for the flight from Istanbul to Adiyaman. Settle in for lunch by the lake of the Ataturk Dam before continuing on to the Mt. Nemrut area. Visit the funerary monument, Karakus, the Cendere bridge, then ascend to the summit of Mt. Nemrut for sunset. Continue on to Adiyaman where you can settle in for the night and enjoy dinner in the hotel.
Day 10
Adiyaman/Sanliurfa
After an early breakfast, transfer to Ataturk Dam to enjoy the viewpoint, then continue to Karahantepe. You'll be welcomed into a local home for lunch before continuing on to the ancient and impressive archaeological site of Gobekli Tepe. Afterwards, transfer to the nearby town of Urfa for the night and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 11
Sanliurfa/Mardin
Travel to Mardin after breakfast this morning. Mardin's old town is protected by UNESCO and is considered to be an open-air museum. Explore the historic limestone architecture and learn about the interesting landmarks throughout. The rest of the day is free for individual exploration or time to relax before joining the CEO for an optional dinner in the evening.
Day 12
Mardin/Van
Settle in for a drive to Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey. Upon arrival to the lakeside town of Gevas, board a boat to Akdamar Island for a CEO-led walk, then head back to your hotel in Van. Enjoy a free evening to end the day.
Day 13
Van/Kars
Visit the Van Citadel this morning, built by the ancient kingdom of Urartu. From there transfer to the previous capital of the Republic of Ararat, Dogubeyazit. Explore Ishak Pasha Palace then take in views of Mt. Ararat and across the mountains where the possible resting place of Noah's Ark is said to be located. Continue on to Kars for a brief orientation walk, then settle in for the evening with free time.
Day 14
Kars
Drive to Ani this morning, known as the city of 1001 churches,. Explore the Ani complex with your CEO, seeing the many religious buildings, palaces and forts before heading back to Kars for a free evening and optional final dinner out with the group.
Day 15
Kars
Depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (13 nts), overnight train (1 nt).
Meals
Breakfasts: 14, Lunches: 3, Dinners: 2
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
May 26
from £2,694Jun 26
from £2,547Jul 26
from £2,547Aug 26
from £2,547Sep 26
from £2,694Oct 26
from £2,400Nov 26
from £2,400Apr 27
from £2,400May 27
from £2,400Jun 27
from £2,400Jul 27
from £2,400Aug 27
from £2,400Sep 27
from £2,400Oct 27
from £2,400Nov 27
from £2,400
- Save 2%Fri 2 Oct 2026 > Fri 16 Oct 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£2,749£2,694Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Fri 9 Oct 2026 > Fri 23 Oct 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£2,749£2,694Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Fri 16 Oct 2026 > Fri 30 Oct 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£2,449Best offer£2,400Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Fri 23 Oct 2026 > Fri 6 Nov 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 15 leftPay Monthly£2,449Best offer£2,400Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.
Why book with us
Help Change The World
We collaborate with local businesses and communities.
Best Price Guaranteed
We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!
You're In Good Hands
We work with trusted tour operators around the world.
You're spoilt for choice
We have the best choice of adventures on the market.