Highlights of Turkey with Istanbul City Stay - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the Highlights of Turkey with Istanbul City Stay tour?

  The main highlights include walking through time on a day tour of the Old City, experiencing traditional Turkish foods and flavours on a culinary tour, enjoying an authentic street food dinner, discovering historic cities and exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Troy, visiting the historic WWI battlefield of Gallipoli, marveling at the extraordinary scenery of Cappadocia, and enjoying dinner in a local family home.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels) for 9 nights, plus 1 overnight train. These accommodations are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations. Some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum number of travelers on this tour is 15.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will accompany you throughout the trip.

• What forms of transportation are used during the tour?

  This tour uses a mix of private vehicles, ferries, trains, planes (internal flights), and walking. Public buses in Turkey are comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all required local flights are included in the cost of your tour. This tour includes internal flights with a check-in allowance of 15 kg (33 lbs) and a carry-on allowance of 8 kg (17.5 lbs).

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

  The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are found within main cities and generally accept Visa and Mastercard. It is recommended to travel with both card types if possible. Cash is advisable for times when ATMs are not accessible. Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are easy to exchange. US Dollar notes older than 1996 or with tears/blemishes may not be accepted.

• What emergency funds should I have access to?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances outside of the tour operator's control, such as a natural disaster requiring a route change.

• What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory. At a minimum, you must be covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects. Ensure your policy covers all included activities.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more to travel, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with exceptions for overnight train accommodation.

• What are the general safety tips and free-time guidelines I should follow?

  Check your government's travel advice before departure. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A luggage lock is recommended. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During free time, use your own judgment when selecting optional activities. In major cities, especially at night, stay in small groups and consider taking taxis. Water-based activities have an element of danger; participate only when accompanied by a guide, and swimming is always at your own risk.

• Are there any specific safety considerations for this itinerary?

  Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others; use common sense, be aware of your surroundings, and mind your personal belongings.

• What health considerations should I know before traveling?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Turkey. Consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes, and any personal medical requirements. Our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  While visiting mosques and other religious monuments, you should dress modestly, cover your shoulders, and avoid short shorts or skirts. Outside of capital cities and more touristic centers, local dress is often more conservative, and as a matter of respect, we recommend loose-fitting clothes with your shoulders covered. Ask your CEO for more specific advice.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include: In Istanbul: Turkish Bath (50-70EUR), Archaeological Museum (15EUR), Dolmabahçe Palace (1200TRY), Basilica Cistern (900TRY), Topkapi Palace Visit (1500TRY), Galata Tower (30EUR), Hagia Sophia Visit (25EUR). In Göreme: Pottery Center Visit (Free), Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Ride, Turkish Bath (75EUR). In Cappadocia: Carpet Demonstration (Free).

• Where can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels for a charge, or your CEO can advise on the nearest laundromat. It is suggested to bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal laundry.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  It is customary in Turkey to leave a small tip (10%) for service providers like waiters. For drivers, recommendations range from €15-20 per week. For your CEO (who also serves as the tour guide for ancient sites), a tip of €6-8 per person per day is appreciated, though the amount is entirely a personal preference.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses, integrating their projects into tour operator itineraries globally. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs.

• What special arrangements are made for LGBTQ+ travelers?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Travelers are encouraged to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and utilize the Equaldex tool for specific destination information to ensure comfort and safety throughout the trip.