Turkey Highlights – 12 Days / 11 Nights Itinerary

Tour Overview

Discover the very best of Turkey on this immersive 12-day journey through vibrant cities, ancient civilizations, breathtaking coastlines, and extraordinary natural wonders. From the iconic landmarks of Istanbul to the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, the ancient city of Ephesus, and the stunning Mediterranean coast of Antalya, this itinerary showcases Turkey’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking for a more in-depth adventure, this tour offers the perfect balance of guided sightseeing, authentic cultural experiences, and leisure time. You can also explore our Turkey Highlights: 5-Day Itinerary for a shorter getaway or the Turkey Highlights: 3-Day Istanbul & Cappadocia Itinerary if you’re planning a quick escape before embarking on this comprehensive 12-day journey.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore Istanbul’s UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Topkapi Palace
  • Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait
  • Shop at the Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar
  • Discover Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys
  • Optional sunrise hot air balloon ride
  • Explore underground cities
  • Visit the Mevlana Museum in Konya
  • Walk on Pamukkale’s white travertine terraces
  • Explore the ancient city of Ephesus
  • Experience the Mediterranean beauty of Antalya
  • Visit Düden Waterfalls
  • Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine and culture
Price: € 3185
Duration: 12 Days 11 Nights
Seasonal Availability: Jan- Dec
Places You'll See
Tour Itinerary
Price Includes
  • 11 nights accommodation
  • Daily breakfast
  • 3 dinners
  • Airport transfers
  • Domestic flights (Istanbul–Cappadocia & Antalya–Istanbul)
  • Private air-conditioned transportation
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to all listed attractions
  • Bosphorus Cruise
  • Guided sightseeing tours
Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul

Welcome to Turkey! Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be greeted by your local representative and transferred to your hotel.

Spend the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring the nearby streets of the historic Sultanahmet district.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Istanbul

Day 2 – Historic Istanbul

After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul's most famous landmarks.

Visit the magnificent Hagia Sophia, admire the elegant Blue Mosque, stroll through the historic Hippodrome, and tour the grand Topkapi Palace. End your day shopping in the colorful Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest covered markets.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Istanbul

Day 3 – Bosphorus Cruise & Spice Bazaar

Begin your day at the lively Spice Bazaar, where aromatic spices, Turkish delights, teas, and handcrafted souvenirs fill the market.

Later, enjoy a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between Europe and Asia while admiring Istanbul's impressive skyline, Ottoman palaces, and waterfront mansions.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Istanbul

Day 4 -Fly to Cappadocia

Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Cappadocia.

Visit the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum, explore Pasabag (Monks Valley), and admire the region's famous fairy chimneys before checking into your unique cave hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Cappadocia

Day 5 -Cappadocia Exploration

Enjoy an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride (weather permitting).

Continue exploring Devrent Valley, Avanos, and one of Cappadocia's remarkable underground cities before attending an optional Turkish cultural evening.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Cappadocia

Day 6 -Konya & Pamukkale

Travel through central Turkey to Konya, home of the famous Whirling Dervishes.

Visit the Mevlana Museum before continuing to Pamukkale, renowned for its dazzling white travertine terraces.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Pamukkale

Day 7-Pamukkale & Hierapolis

Explore the spectacular terraces of Pamukkale, where mineral-rich thermal waters have flowed for thousands of years.

Visit the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, including its amphitheater, Roman baths, and historic necropolis.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Pamukkale

Day 8-Ancient Ephesus & Kuşadası

Travel to the legendary city of Ephesus, one of the world's best-preserved ancient Roman cities.

Discover the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, Marble Street, and the Temple of Hadrian. Continue to the coastal town of Kuşadası.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Kuşadası

Day 9-Antalya

Journey along Turkey's beautiful Mediterranean coastline to Antalya.

Explore the charming Kaleiçi (Old Town), picturesque marina, and lively streets filled with cafés, boutiques, and historic architecture.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Antalya

Day 10-Antalya Waterfalls & Coastline

Spend the day discovering Antalya's natural beauty.

Visit the spectacular Düden Waterfalls, relax along the Mediterranean coast, or enjoy optional activities such as a boat cruise or cable car ride.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Antalya

Day 11-Return to Istanbul

Fly back to Istanbul.

Enjoy free time for shopping, visiting local cafés, or exploring neighborhoods such as Galata and Karaköy before your farewell dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Istanbul

Day 12-Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Istanbul Airport for your onward journey.

Depart Turkey with unforgettable memories of its magnificent history, warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Meals: Breakfast

 Not Included:

  • International flights
  • Turkey visa (if required)
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional hot air balloon ride
  • Optional excursions
  • Lunches and beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities

 Ideal For

  • International or first-time USA visitors
  • Leisure travelers, cultural groups, school/college alumni
  • Families, small group tour operators, incentive groups
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