THE COLORS OF TURKEY

The Colors of Turkey: A Deep Dive Into a 9-Day Journey

Traveling through Turkey is like flipping through a living, breathing history book, filled with vivid sights, ancient ruins, and cultural surprises around every corner. This 9-day tour offers an excellent opportunity for those eager to discover the country’s diverse landscapes, fascinating sites, and bustling cities—without the stress of planning each step.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the seamless blend of city exploration with awe-inspiring natural wonders. Second, the thoughtful inclusion of key highlights like Istanbul’s architectural treasures and the underground cities of Cappadocia. And third, the chance to walk through UNESCO World Heritage sites, offering authentic glimpses of Turkey’s layered past.

That said, consider that some dinners in Istanbul are not included, which might add to the overall cost if you prefer hotel dining. Also, the itinerary’s pace can be quite full, especially for travelers who prefer a more relaxed experience.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, culture seekers, and first-time visitors eager to see Turkey’s most iconic sights with a trusted guide. It’s perfect for those who appreciate organized travel but still want meaningful, immersive experiences.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Izmir, and Bursa, offering a well-rounded view of Turkey.
• Expert Guides & Included Fees: French-speaking guides enhance the experience, with all attraction entrance fees covered.
• Accommodation & Meals: Hotel stays are included with breakfasts, plus dinners in most locations, providing good value.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transportation, Wi-Fi, and bottled water keep the journey comfortable.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to underground cities, rock churches, and the House of Virgin Mary add unique, memorable moments.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance provide peace of mind.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1 & 2: Istanbul – The City of Sultans

Starting in Istanbul, the tour offers a smooth arrival with assistance and hotel transfer. The first day is free for you to settle in—perhaps explore the vibrant streets of Sultanahmet or indulge in local cuisine (dinners are on your own). The city’s skyline, topped with domes and minarets, immediately sets the scene for a city full of surprises.

Day 2 features a relaxed start, allowing you to wander at leisure. This helps travelers acclimate without feeling rushed, and you can choose to visit places like the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque independently if you wish.

Day 3: From Istanbul to Ankara

Traveling across the Bosporus Bridge provides a scenic route from the historic heart of Istanbul to the modern capital, Ankara. The visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations is a highlight, showcasing artifacts from the Hittite empire—an excellent introduction to Turkey’s ancient roots. The visit to Anitkabir, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s mausoleum, means stepping into the story of modern Turkey’s foundation.

Day 4 & 5: Cappadocia – Fairy Chimneys and Underground Cities

Cappadocia is a crowd favorite—and for good reason. The tour’s visits include the Goreme Valley, where rock-cut churches and fairy chimneys make for surreal landscapes. The Uçhisar troglodyte village offers panoramic views, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

A visit to an underground city reveals how early communities built complex, hidden refuges—an extraordinary feat of architecture and ingenuity. Reviewers note that “the underground city was fascinating, especially the way it was carved out of the soft volcanic rock,” and many appreciate the opportunity to see a different side of Turkey’s history.

The next day, the journey continues with a stop at the Derbent Valley and a carpet and onyx workshop, providing insights into local crafts and traditions. Travelers often enjoy watching artisans at work and learning about centuries-old techniques.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 6: Pamukkale – The Cotton Castle

Crossing the Salt Lake, you’ll arrive at Pamukkale, famed for its stunning, terraced limestone pools. The natural thermal waters create a surreal landscape that’s both relaxing and photogenic. The tour’s timing allows you to enjoy the site during the day, capturing those perfect shots of the white mineral terraces.

Day 7: Ephesus & the Virgin Mary’s House

Ephesus is a highlight, with its well-preserved ruins including Celsus Library and the Theatre of Ephesus—the largest in the ancient world. The House of the Virgin Mary adds a spiritual dimension, and many pilgrims visit annually. Expect to walk through ancient streets, imagining life in Roman and Greek times. Reviewers often mention that “the scale of Ephesus was breathtaking,” and “the guide brought the ruins to life with stories and context.”

The leather workshop visit offers a taste of Turkey’s craftsmanship, and many travelers find browsing local products an enjoyable way to end the day.

Day 8: Bursa & Return to Istanbul

Bursa, Turkey’s first Ottoman capital, showcases early Turkish architecture. Highlights include the Green Mosque and the Green Mausoleum. The silk market in the Yesil district provides a glimpse into historic trade and textile craftsmanship—a nice balance between history and shopping.

The journey back to Istanbul allows travelers to reflect on the trip’s highlights while enjoying the comfort of air-conditioned transport. Reviewers appreciate the Wi-Fi and bottled water, which help pass the time on this busy day.

Day 9: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, a transfer to the airport wraps up the adventure. The tour’s structure ensures a smooth end to your trip, with assistance to make check-in effortless.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This tour offers a carefully curated mix of iconic sights and authentic experiences. The inclusion of entrance fees and guided visits means less hassle and more insight. The French-speaking guides are a notable plus, especially for travelers who prefer clear, nuanced explanations.

The hotels appear comfortable, with breakfasts included—helping you fuel up for busy days. Dinners are mostly included in Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Bursa, which adds convenience. However, Dinners in Istanbul aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for those evenings.

The transportation, with air-conditioned vehicles and Wi-Fi, ensures comfort during long drives, which are often unavoidable in such a wide-ranging itinerary. The small group size and professional guides contribute to a personalized experience, with many reviewers noting the helpfulness and friendliness of guides like the French-speaking tour leader.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $685 per person, this tour offers solid value considering all the included accommodations, guided visits, entrance fees, and transportation. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a rundown of Turkey without the hassle of organizing each piece. The tour strikes a good balance between structured sightseeing and free time, and the variety of locations—from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia—captures Turkey’s essence.

While the pace might be rapid for some, especially with so many sites packed into just nine days, it’s perfect for those eager to maximize their time. The hotel stays are centrally located in tourist-friendly areas, and the guided approach means you won’t miss out on key stories and details.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to Turkey. History enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully chosen highlights, while those looking for a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty will find plenty to love. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, this tour will keep you engaged.

Travelers who prefer more leisurely exploration might find the itinerary a bit packed, but for those interested in seeing the highlights efficiently, it’s a very practical option.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes 3 nights in Istanbul, 1 night in Ankara, 2 nights in Cappadocia, 1 night in Pamukkale, and 1 night in Izmir, all with breakfast. Dinners are included in some locations, and guided visits with entrance fees are covered.

Are flights to and from Turkey included?
No, the tour starts and ends in Turkey, and flights need to be arranged separately. The package covers transfers from the airport to the hotel and vice versa.

How is transportation arranged during the tour?
All transfers are done using air-conditioned minibuses or coaches, depending on group size. Travelers also enjoy free Wi-Fi on the bus between Ankara and Istanbul.

Can I book a single room?
Yes, single rooms are available with a supplement of 340 euros. The price listed is based on double or triple occupancy.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a hat or sunscreen for outdoor visits. Dinners in Istanbul are not included, so plan for some meals out.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is quite full, with many sites visited over the nine days. Some free time is included, but expect most days to be activity-packed.

Is this tour suitable for kids or families?
While not explicitly tailored for children, most of the sites are family-friendly. Keep in mind the pace and walking involved, and consider the age of your kids.

What is the travel group size?
The exact group size isn’t stated, but the use of Wi-Fi and air-conditioned vehicles suggests a comfortable, well-organized group that’s not overly large.

Overall, this tour offers a practical, engaging way to see Turkey’s diverse allure in just over a week. It’s best for those who want a guided, structured experience with plenty of cultural and historical highlights, balanced with moments to soak in the scenery and local flavor.

You can check if your dates are available here: