Turkish Delight
Turkish Delight
Turkish Delight
14 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey
Visiting: Arrive In Istanbul, Turkey, Istanbul, Ankara, Ozkonak, Cappadocia, Cappadocia: Excursion To Goreme, Pigeon Valley & Red Valley, Sultanhani, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Izmir, Pergamum, Troy Area, Gallipoli
Tour operator:
Tour code:
QT-2026
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
Conquer your bucket list to walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans and the Turks themselves. Begin your escorted tour of Turkey in the historic city of Istanbul. Soak in the history and diverse cultures along its tree-lined boulevards, and in its cafés, and sophisticated eateries. Continue your Turkish vacation with indelible sights and historic Byzantine monuments that evoke an era of innovation. Discover rock-carved chapels, fortifications, and monasteries from Ozkonak and Goreme to the stories of the Silk Road in Sultanhani. Feel your head spin with a visit to the Mevlana Monastery Museum where 13th-century Whirling Dervishes were founded by the mystic Persian poet Rumi. Hear the tales of Troy where Trojans marched, and a magnificent wooden horse remains a legend worldwide. And take in the countless natural wonders of Turkey with dramatic landscapes, breathtaking views, rose-hued rock formations, and the serene, pristine beaches of the “turquoise coast” on the Turkish Riviera. Raise a cup of Turkish coffee, soak in the Mediterranean Sea, and toast your timeless vacation in Turkey!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Istanbul,Turkey
Location: Arrive In Istanbul, Turkey
Meals Included: Dinner
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner.
ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY Welcome to Istanbul! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner. (D)ISTANBUL-BAY.jpg
Day 2: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
ISTANBUL East meets West ISTANBUL A full day guided sightseeing includes visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and [LF] visit the underground Basilica Cistern. (B)LOCAL FAVORITEHISTORIC SPOT The Basilica Cistern, also known locally as “the sunken palace,” is the underground cistern built during the Byzantine Empire to supply water to parts of the then city of Constantinople. An incredible structure with 336 pillars holding up a magnificent vaulted ceiling over an artificial freshwater lake. It can be classed as an early example of recycling as the builders made use of stone structures from earlier temples – one of the most famous “recycled stones”, that can still be seen, is the upside down head of Medusa.ISTANBUL-HAGIA-SOPHIA.jpg
Day 3: Istanbul,Ankara
Location: Istanbul, Ankara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
ISTANBUL–ANKARA Heart of Turkey ISTANBUL Visit the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy [LF] a traditional Turkish coffee experience at an historical coffee roaster.ANKARA Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk. (B,D)277 mi / 445 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITIONS Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago, and finally called Istanbul after the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between Orient and Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent yet exciting history.ISTANBUL-GRAND-BAZAAR
Day 4: Ankara,Ozkonak,Cappadocia
Location: Ankara, Ozkonak, Cappadocia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
ANKARA–OZKONAK–CAPPADOCIA Going Underground ANKARA Visit the Museum of Anatolian CivilisationsOZKONAK Guided visit of the underground city.CAPPADOCIA Free-time this evening. (B,D) 217 mi / 350 kmLOCAL FAVORITEARCHITECTURAL FEATS In 1972 a local farmer was curious as to why the excess crop water disappeared so fast - it was the start of the discovery of Ozkonak underground city. Carved into the volcanic rock around the 4th century BC, this city was formed of 10 levels and built to protect about 60 000 people from religious persecution and war. To ensure they could all survive for up to 3 months the city had its own ventilation system, water supply and moving stone doors with a hot oil defence system. Any attackers trying to enter the city would be stopped in their tracks by the hot oil being poured over their heads!ANKARA.jpg
Day 5: Cappadocia: Excursion To Goreme,Pigeon Valley & Red Valley
Location: Cappadocia: Excursion To Goreme, Pigeon Valley & Red Valley
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
CAPPADOCIA: EXCURSION TO GOREME, PIGEON VALLEY & RED VALLEY Rock of Ages GOREME Visit the open-air museum to see the rock-cut chapels and monasteries. PASABAG VALLEY See the earth pillars in the middle of a vineyard.PIGEON VALLEY Enjoy views of this distinctive landscape.RED VALLEY Admire the beautiful valley with its rose-hued rock. Later stop to take photos of Uchisar Castle. (B,D)16 mi / 25 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDER Set on a high dry plateau in Central Turkey, the surreal landscape of Cappadocia looks like it comes straight from a Hollywood sci fi movie. Instead lava, volcanic ash and natural erosion caused by wind and rain have been forming it for millions of years - sculpting the famous fairy chimneys, the pigeon houses, the tabletop mountains and the badlands with the weaving rock formations. GOREME.jpg
Day 6: Cappadocia,Sultanhani,Konya
Location: Cappadocia, Sultanhani, Konya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
CAPPADOCIA–SULTANHANI–KONYA The Silk Road SULTANHANI Visit the Caravanserai, an historic stopover on the Silk Road.KONYA Visit Karatay Medrese and Mevlana Monastery of the Dervishes which is now a museum. (B,D) 149 mi / 240 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT MUSIC & MEDITATION Originating from Sufis, a mystical branch of Islam, Whirling Dervishes date back to the 13th century when they were founded by the mystic Persian poet Rumi, the Mevlana Monastery Museum was one of their original lodges. Instantly recognisable in their white gowns, they spin around with their right hand reaching for heaven. A form of active meditation this ritual allows them to abandon their ego, listen to music and focus on God. SULTANHANI-CARAVANSERAI.jpg
Day 7: Konya,Antalya
Location: Konya, Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast
KONYA–ANTALYA Pearl of the Mediterranean ANTALYA – Stop at Upper Duden Falls and guided walk of the Old Town. (B) 168 mi / 270 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL GEM Founded by the Greeks, and later an important Roman port, Antalya today is a popular resort, the gateway to the Turkish Riviera, known for its sunny weather, stunning coastline and beaches, and crystal blue waters from which it gains the nickname the “Turquoise Coast.” There are also plenty of cultural sites to visit such as Hadrians Gate and the Old Town. DUDEN-FALLS-ANTALYA.jpg
Day 8: Antalya
Location: Antalya
Meals Included: Breakfast
ANTALYA An Architectural Love Duel ANTALYA Free day to explore on your own. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE MORE The day is yours to do as you choose - discover more of Antalya, have a lazy day on the coast or why not take advantage of an excursion to Aspendos to see some fantastic examples of Roman architecture. Legend says it was founded by refugees from Troy and that two of its most prominent structures were built by two love rivals. The King announced that he who built the structure most useful to Aspendos could marry his daughter. One built the aqueduct and the other the theater, both are still standing today. Whilst the aqueduct was the most useful, the King was amazed that from the back of the theater he could hear the architect whisper, “You should let your daughter marry me,” and he did.ANTALYA-OLD-TOWN.jpg
Day 9: Antalya,Pamukkale
Location: Antalya, Pamukkale
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
ANTALYA–PAMUKKALE The Cotton Castle PAMUKKALE – Visit the ancient city of Hieropolis founded as a thermal resort around 190 BC. See the stunning travertine terraces with the thermal water pools. (B,D)149 mi / 240 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDER When the mineral rich thermal waters that flowed down the valley side, cooled, and hardened, a series of bright white travertine terraces were formed, each containing a thermal pool. This incredible sight gave the area its name – Pamukkale “Cotton Castle.” The Romans also took advantage of the thermal springs and founded the spa town of Hieropolis close by.PAMUKKALE.jpg
Day 10: Pamukkale,Ephesus,Izmir
Location: Pamukkale, Ephesus, Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
PAMUKKALE–EPHESUS–IZMIR Ancient Civilization Preserved EPHESUS Follow your Guide for a walk through the ancient ruins and the archaeological museum. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.IZMIR Orientation tour upon arrival (B,L)186 mi / 300 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOTS Ephesus was one of the most famous cities of the ancient Mediterranean. It was the second biggest city of the Roman Empire and today it is one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean. EPHESUS.jpg
Day 11: Izmir
Location: Izmir
Meals Included: Breakfast
IZMIR Elevated Views IZMIR Free day to explore on your own. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEM Considered one of Turkey’s hidden gems, Izmir is a cultural hub located on the Aegean Sea. It offers lots of cultural and historical sites to visit such as the Agora, the Hisar Mosque, the clock tower and Konak Square. Take a ride up the historical elevator to its terrace for a stunning view of the city and the coastline, do some shopping at the Bazaar or try out some of the local seafood specialities.IZMIR-KONAK-SQUARE.jpg
Day 12: Izmir,Pergamum,Troy Area
Location: Izmir, Pergamum, Troy Area
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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IZMIR–PERGAMUM–TROY AREA A Gift Horse & A God of Healing PERGAMUM Guided visit of the Asklepion, a shrine to the Greek God of medicine.TROY Guided visit of the excavations and see the symbolic wooden Trojan Horse that commemorates the Trojan War. (B,D)211 mi / 340 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT HEALING THE BODY &THE SOUL Nestled between hills, the Asklepion retains a sense of serenity and history. The sick approached the temple via the Sacred Way, a path that started their journey to health determined according to what dreams the patience experienced and which also included theatre shows. All of this was done in the belief that healing was a sacred art and that people’s souls needed to be mended as well as their bodies.TROY-TROJAN-HORSE.jpg
Day 13: Troy Area,Gallipoli,Istanbul
Location: Troy Area, Gallipoli, Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
TROY AREA–GALLIPOLI–ISTANBUL Bravery on the Beach GALLIPOLI Visit the WWI battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula, the Anzac Cemetery and the Lone Pine Memorial before crossing the Dardanelless by ferry.ISTANBUL Free time this afternoon. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)230 mi / 370 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORY & HERITAGE Visit the moving and inspirational sites, where Allied troops, mainly Australians and New Zealanders, suffered heavy casualties in a disastrous campaign. Pay tribute to the heroes of those tragic months of 1915 at the Anzac Cemetery and the Lone Pine Memorial.GALLIPOLI.jpg
Day 14: Istanbul
Location: Istanbul
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
ISTANBUL Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)ISTANBUL-BOSPHORUS.jpg
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Renaissance Istanbul Polat Bosphorus, Latanya Hotel in Ankara, Barcelo Cappadocia, Dedeman Konya Hotel Convention Center, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham in Antalya, Adempira Termal & Spa in Pamukkale, Renaissance Hotel in Izmir, Doubletree By Hilton Canakkale in Troy Area, and Titanic City Taksim in Istanbul.
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Meals
Meals included as per itinerary: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), and Dinner (D).
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Guided Sightseeing
Guided sightseeing tours including visits to the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Mausoleum of Ataturk, Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, underground city of Ozkonak, Goreme open-air museum, Pigeon Valley, Red Valley, Caravanserai in Sultanhani, Karatay Medrese, Mevlana Monastery, Upper Duden Falls, ancient city of Hieropolis, archaeological museum in Ephesus, Asklepion in Pergamum, and WWI battlefields in Gallipoli.
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Local Experiences
Local experiences such as a traditional Turkish coffee experience at a historical coffee roaster and a visit to the underground Basilica Cistern.
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Transportation
Transportation between cities and sites as per the itinerary.
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Tour Director
Services of a professional Tour Director and local guides.
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Small-Group Discoveries
Option for Small-Group Discoveries limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Archaeological Site of Troy, Goreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia, Hierapolis-Pamukkale, and the Historic Centre of Istanbul.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for the Tour Director, driver, and local guides are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and processing are not included.
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus Europe escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Archaeological Site of Troy|G?reme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia|Hierapolis-Pamukkale|Historic Centre of Istanbul
Accommodation
Istanbul: Renaissance Istanbul Polat Bosphorus, Ankara: Latanya Hotel, Cappadocia: Barcelo Cappadocia, Konya: Dedeman Konya Hotel Convention Center, Antalya: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham, Pamukkale: Adempira Termal & Spa, Izmir: Renaissance Hotel, Troy Area: Doubletree By Hilton Canakkale, Istanbul: Titanic City Taksim
Mode of Transport
The tour includes transportation between cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Konya, Antalya, Pamukkale, Izmir, and the Troy Area, covering distances up to 445 km in a day.
Notes
Uneven terrain of Ephesus' archaeological sites may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at various high-quality hotels such as Renaissance Istanbul Polat Bosphorus in Istanbul, Latanya Hotel in Ankara, Barcelo Cappadocia in Cappadocia, Dedeman Konya Hotel Convention Center in Konya, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham in Antalya, Adempira Termal & Spa in Pamukkale, Renaissance Hotel in Izmir, and Doubletree By Hilton Canakkale in the Troy Area.
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What are some of the key historical sites included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to several key historical sites such as the Roman Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Mausoleum of Ataturk in Ankara, the underground city of Ozkonak, the open-air museum in Goreme, the Caravanserai in Sultanhani, Mevlana Monastery in Konya, the ancient city of Hieropolis in Pamukkale, and the archaeological site of Ephesus.
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Are there any unique local experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes unique local experiences such as a traditional Turkish coffee experience at a historical coffee roaster in Istanbul and a guided visit to the underground city of Ozkonak.
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Will there be any free time to explore on my own?
Yes, there are several opportunities for free time to explore on your own, including evenings in Cappadocia and Antalya, and a full day in Izmir.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of meals such as breakfasts (B), dinners (D), and a lunch (L) at a local restaurant in Ephesus.
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What are some of the natural wonders included in the tour?
The tour includes visits to natural wonders such as the travertine terraces with thermal water pools in Pamukkale, the unique rock formations in Cappadocia, and Upper Duden Falls in Antalya.
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What is the significance of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul?
The Basilica Cistern, also known as 'the sunken palace,' is an underground cistern built during the Byzantine Empire to supply water to parts of the then city of Constantinople. It features 336 pillars holding up a magnificent vaulted ceiling over an artificial freshwater lake.
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What can I expect to see in Cappadocia?
In Cappadocia, you will visit the open-air museum in Goreme to see rock-cut chapels and monasteries, the earth pillars in Pasabag Valley, and enjoy views of Pigeon Valley and Red Valley. You will also have the opportunity to take photos of Uchisar Castle.
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What is the historical significance of the Mevlana Monastery in Konya?
The Mevlana Monastery, now a museum, was one of the original lodges of the Whirling Dervishes, a mystical branch of Islam founded by the Persian poet Rumi in the 13th century. The Dervishes are known for their white gowns and spinning ritual, which is a form of active meditation.
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What are some of the highlights of the visit to Ephesus?
In Ephesus, you will follow your guide for a walk through the ancient ruins and the archaeological museum. Ephesus was one of the most famous cities of the ancient Mediterranean and is one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean.
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What can I do during the free day in Antalya?
During the free day in Antalya, you can explore the city on your own, have a lazy day on the coast, or take an excursion to Aspendos to see examples of Roman architecture, including the theater and aqueduct.
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What is the significance of the Asklepion in Pergamum?
The Asklepion in Pergamum was a shrine to the Greek God of medicine. It was a place where the sick approached via the Sacred Way and underwent treatments that included dream interpretation and theatre shows, based on the belief that healing was a sacred art.
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What will I see during the visit to Gallipoli?
During the visit to Gallipoli, you will see the WWI battlefields on the Gallipoli peninsula, the Anzac Cemetery, and the Lone Pine Memorial. These sites commemorate the heavy casualties suffered by Allied troops, mainly Australians and New Zealanders, during the Gallipoli campaign.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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