Treasures of Turkey

Treasures of Turkey

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Treasures of Turkey

12 Days Starting and ending in United Kingdom

Visiting: Istanbul, Canakkale, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, Ankara

Tour operator:

Travelsphere

Tour code:

FETKT

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

15 - 35

Physical rating:

Low, Classic Touring

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Please make us aware of any specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:
English

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Turkey dazzles your senses, from Istanbul's bustling Grand Bazaar with scents of spices to the incredible cave dwellings of Cappadocia and the shimmering tiles of the Blue Mosque – not to mention the delicious cuisine. This tour takes you far and wide to discover richly historical sites, such as the famous Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace and the legendary city of Troy.


Soak up culture and tradition with belly dancing and the heady scent of Turkish coffee. Travel along the Mediterranean past sparkling lakes and through sweeping valleys. This holiday is all about you, so choose optional excursions with expert Local Guides or let your wandering feet explore at your leisure.

Highlights

  • Tour of Istanbul including The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar

  • Coffee and Baklava-tasting in the Grand Bazaar

  • Visit the Gallipoli War Memorial

  • Troy tour and visit to the ancient city of Pergamon

  • Tour of one of the ancient wonders of the world, the Temple of Artemis, in Ephesus

  • Visit Sirince Village and discover Turkish agriculture

  • Picnic lunch in the ruins of Aphrodisias

  • Pamukkale hot springs and swimming opportunity 

  • Visit Konya – capital of the Seldjuk Empire

  • Cappadocia and the Goreme Valley rock with a glass of wine at sunset

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Uk - Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation Name: Maywood Hotel

Meals Included: D

Today you will fly to Istanbul, from where we'll transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy your first dinner in Turkey, relax and get set for your exciting journey.

Day 2 Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation Name: Maywood Hotel

Meals Included: B, L

Launch straight into action today on our Byzantine and Ottoman Relics tour where we explore Istanbul, the once capital of the Roman and Ottoman Empires. From Sultanahmet Square we'll explore the Hippodrome's stunning obelisks and intriguing history of chariot races. Prepare yourself for breathtaking sights as we visit the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

After savouring local flavours at a Turkish restaurant, we'll marvel over the priceless collections at the Topkapi Palace Museum. Once a Christian church then later a mosque, this is one of the largest buildings in the city. Sharpen your bargaining skills at the Grand Bazaar, the trading hub of the city where you can find everything from pots and carpets to fruit and spices. Taste baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and honey. This evening, dance to your own tune in the city tonight or join our optional excursion to watch a traditional Turkish show.

Day 3 Istanbul - Canakkale

Location: Canakkale

Accommodation Name: Buyuk Truva Hotel

Meals Included: B, D

After a leisurely breakfast, feel free to explore at your own pace or join our scenic Bosporus Cruise. You'll admire the city skyline and views of historic monuments, while experiencing the novelty of a quick crossing from Europe to Asia. We'll also hop off the boat for a glimpse of local life on Istanbul's Asian side.

Settle in for a relaxing afternoon drive to Canakkale, with sweeping views of the Marmara Sea coastline. We'll stop at the famous WWI battlefields of Gallipoli, the large and poignant resting site of Australian, New Zealand, British and Turkish soldiers. We then cross the historic Dardanelles channel for dinner and leisure time at our hotel.

Day 4 Canakkale - Kusadasi

Location: Kusadasi

Accommodation Name: Tusan Beach Resort

Meals Included: B, D

The myths and legends of Troy await this morning, so make sure you eat a hearty breakfast! The city of Homer's famous poem Iliad, which makes art of the real-life Trojan War, is an archaeological site that highlights more than 3,000 years of history and civilisation. Our journey continues through Ayvalik to Bergama and its impressive ruins. Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Pergamon, an open-air museum with striking remains of the Acropolis.

Day 5 Ephesus & Sirince

Location: Kusadasi

Accommodation Name: Tusan Beach Resort

Meals Included: B, D

Today's adventure begins at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus. One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, the excavation of Ephesus continues to this day, following a century of unearthing agoras, temples and churches. Get your camera ready for a shot of you and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

In the afternoon we'll visit a charming village known for its excellent wine production. Sirince sits at the top of a hill boasting vineyard and countryside views, with Greek heritage and plenty of gourmet food to feast on.

Day 6 Kusadasi - Pamukkale

Location: Pamukkale

Accommodation Name: Richmond Thermal Hotel - Pamukkale

Meals Included: B, L, D

We'll travel to Aphrodisias today to discover the beautifully preserved Greco-Roman settlement and museum. Dedicated to the goddess of love, Aphrodite, the temple here dates from the 3rd century BC. You'll enjoy a delicious picnic lunch before we travel to Pamukkale, celebrated for its startling white cliffs and mineral-rich thermal waters.

Day 7 Pamukkale - Konya

Location: Konya

Accommodation Name: Bera Hotel - Konya

Meals Included: B, D

Next, we'll take an exciting tour of Hierapolis. The ruins of this ancient spa city include a Roman theatre, the agora and a huge Necropolis, home to more than 1,000 tombs. You may choose to swim in the hot spring pool at the hotel before we drive to Konya, which was once the capital of the Seljuk Empire. On the way, we'll pass the glistening lakes of Egirdir and Beysehir, surrounded by lush landscapes.

Day 8 Konya - Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation Name: Perissia Hotel - Cappadocia

Meals Included: B, D

Konya is home to the Mausoleum of Mevlana, who was the founder of the sect of Whirling Dervishes, and it's our first stop after breakfast at the hotel today. We'll also admire the spectacular blue-tiled dome of Karatay Medrese, and visit the 13th century Caravanserai Sultanhani, once a popular stop for merchants along the ancient Silk Road trade route. Here, you can choose to join our optional excursion to watch a Whirling Dervishes performance - a unique spiritual ceremony.

Day 9 Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation Name: Perissia Hotel - Cappadocia

Meals Included: B, D

Awake amidst Cappadocia's other-worldly scenery for a full day of exploration ahead. Join us for a tour of Göreme Valley with its fairytale rock formations and network of man-made caves that house churches, storehouses and living quarters.

The incredible Kaymakli Underground City was used by the earliest Christian settlers. Of its eight levels, four are open to the public and feature a maze of tunnels and rooms. At sunset, relish a glass of local wine with stunning views over Love Valley.

Day 10 Cappadocia - Ankara

Location: Ankara

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Ankara

Meals Included: B, D

Enjoy an early breakfast today before our drive to the bustling capital city of Ankara. In the afternoon, delve into history at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, to discover Turkey's ancient past. You'll find relics from Neolithic, Bronze Age, Hittite and Lydian periods, among a staggering array of artefacts. We'll also visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, then enjoy an overnight stay with free time for relaxation or fun.

Day 11 Ankara - Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation Name: Maywood Hotel

Meals Included: B, D

A bright and early start takes you back to Istanbul to explore at your own pace in the afternoon. Alternatively, enjoy an optional half-day excursion to Golden Horn, Chora Museum and Pierre Loti café with pretty views over the Bosporus. Take advantage of free time in the evening for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing, then join us for a delicious farewell dinner together at the hotel.

Day 12 Istanbul - Uk

Meals Included: B

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before your airport transfer and flight home to the UK.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    4 star hotel

  • Return flights from London 

  • 11 nights in 4-star hotels 

  • 23 meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches ,10 dinners and welcome drink 

  • Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

  • Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide

  • Travelsphere Holiday Director

  • Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

  • Return flights from London

  • 11 nights in 4-star hotels

  • 23 meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches ,10 dinners and welcome drink

What's Not Included

Accommodation

    • Sapphire Hotel
    • Decorated in classic Ottoman style the 4-star Sapphire Hotel is located in the old centre of Istanbul, within walking distance to many major historical attractions.



      Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and indoor swimming pool. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, mini-bar and hairdryer.
    • Buyuk Truva Hotel
    • The Buyuk Truva hotel is situated centrally within the city of Canakkale, and has a quaint and traditional décor. The in-house restaurant serves a varied cuisine of both local and international options, whilst also offering a wonderful view of the Marmara Sea. Air-conditioned rooms are furnished with private facilities, and there is complimentary WIFI is available.
    • Tusan Beach Resort
    • The 5-star Tusan Beach Resort in Kusadasi has its own beach and is close to the area’s many historical attractions. All guest rooms have a balcony with a view of the sea or the hotel’s pretty gardens.



      Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, a balcony, air-conditioning, TV, mini-bar and hairdryer.
    • Richmond Thermal Hotel - Pamukkale
    • The 4-star Richmond Thermal Hotel is ideally located within reach of Pamukkale.



      Hotel facilities include a restaurant, a selection of bars, outdoor swimming pool, and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, complimentary wi-fi, TV, telephone, mini-bar and hairdryer.
    • Bera Hotel - Konya
    • The 4-star Bera Hotel is ideally located within Konya''s city centre.



      Hotel facilities include a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, complimentary wi-fi, safe, TV, mini-bar and hairdryer.
    • Perissia Hotel - Cappadocia
    • The 4-star Perissia Hotel is ideally located within reach of the centre of Cappadocia.



      Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and a spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, complimentary wi-fi, Satellite TV, safe, mini-bar and hairdryer.
    • Holiday Inn Ankara
    • This is a wonderful property where guests can really enjoy the array of fantastic facilities on offer. The hotel has an in-house restaurant serving international and local dishes, in addition there is a bar area for guests to relax in. Other excellent amenities include an indoor pool, a sauna and a gym. Rooms are furnished with a minibar, TV and WIFI access.
    • Sapphire Hotel
    • Decorated in classic Ottoman style the 4-star Sapphire Hotel is located in the old centre of Istanbul, within walking distance to many major historical attractions.



      Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and indoor swimming pool. Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, mini-bar and hairdryer.

Excursions Included


  • Tour of Istanbul including The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace and Grand Bazaar

  • Visit the Gallipoli war memorial

  • Troy tour and visit to ancient city of Pergamon

  • Tour of one of the ancient wonders of the world Ephesus

  • Visit Sirince Village and discover Turkish agriculture

  • Picnic lunch in the ruins of Aphrodisias

  • Pamukkale hot springs and swimming opportunity

  • Visit Konya – capital of the Seldjuk Empire

  • Cappadocia and the Goreme Valley rock with a Cocktail at sunset

  • Visit to Ankara including the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations

Optional Excursions


  • Istanbul by night tour including Turkish folklore show

  • Morning Cruise along the Bosporus

  • Visit the Golden Horn

Check out our Q&As

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    Requirements do change, and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure so that you have the correct documentation and are adequately vaccinated. Information on health is available from your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centre www.travelhealthpro.org.uk

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    Yes

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    No. Min age is 18 years.

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Yes

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Travelsphere’s Flexibility Promise has been created to give you complete peace of mind and make you feel confident when booking your holiday with us. We have also been awarded the WTTC safe travels stamp which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Travelsphere has been operating escorted touring holidays for 60 years

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travelsphere, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    You will receive Holiday conformation upon booking, and then several documents detailing any adddiotnal information and the optional excursions that you can book before you travel. The final information covering your flights, hotels and itinerary will be sent to you around 14 days before your departure date.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, we do not offer single share options

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, Im afraid not

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If we can accomadate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - and make sure you have your booking number to hand.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Our Travelsphere Cares programmes, in partnership with the Planeterra Foundation, support local projects and social enterprises by helping them earn an income from tourism. We simply donate a portion of the funds from our tours, so it’s great to know that when you travel with us you are helping to change lives and turn travel into real impact.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Like minded travellers

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Michael Johns  

Treasures of Turkey

Excellent tour, a good introduction to Turkey, goo

Excellent tour, a good introduction to Turkey, good mix of people and excellent tour manager

Mr and Mrs James  

First trip with Travelsphere was amazing

Just got back from my first trip with Travelsphere

Just got back from my first trip with Travelsphere. we went on the Treasures of Turkey Trip. We have been to turkey many times before for a sunshine holiday by the pool with our son but never have we spent time to explore the country itself. We were amazed by how much Travelsphere included in this tour and how much of Turkey we had missed out on, on all those other holidays. The blue Mosque, the Topkapi palace and the Gallipoli war memorial to name a few. My wife really enjoyed buying souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar and I loved watching the belly dancers! lol On a serious note, the Pamukkale hot springs were a favourite for us both, as was the wonderful coffee we tasted. The tour rep was brilliant, easy to follow and so knowledgeable. We thoroughly enjoyed this tour and will be shortly booking for a different trip.

Christalla Nicola  

Treasures of Turkey

Everything was taken care of From the pick up from

Everything was taken care of From the pick up from home Rep picked us from airport All hotels were booked in advance Tours were arranged Meals catered for No needs to make any travel plans Travelsphere did everything

Judith Plimmer  

Treasures of Turkey

Not a holiday to go on if you want to relax by the

Not a holiday to go on if you want to relax by the pool, it was very busy and energetic but if you want to see the sights it is wonderful. I think one of my favourite places was Cappadocia, just stunning scenary. Great value for money and content of itinerary. Wonderful tour manager (Ertan ) whose knowledge, friendly nature and professionalism made the trip a pleasure

Christine Stubbs  

Treasures of Turkey

We have travelled with you to China, Vietnam and C

We have travelled with you to China, Vietnam and Cambodia and Turkey. In all countries you have employed well informed local tour guides whose love for their country has shown through. They have all been eager to show their culture and have gone out of their way

David Gardner  

Treasures of Turkey

We saw all the sites we wanted to or expected to f

We saw all the sites we wanted to or expected to from the tour. What was even better was that Ertan, the tour guide, and our driver Murat, going above and beyond what was expected and squeezing extras for individuals when timetables allowed.

Anthony Brown  

Treasures of Turkey

attention to detail and value for money

attention to detail and value for money

Pamela Planchant  

Treasures of Turkey

The trip was very interesting and informative and

The trip was very interesting and informative and we saw a large part of the country. It was a very enjoyable and exciting holiday. Istanbul is a fantastic city with lots to see. The ancient cities, especially Ephesus, were mesmerising and the Turkish countryside is spectacular. Also, the food and the friendly people added to the enjoyment of the holiday.

Keith Routley  

Treasures of Turkey

You get to see so much.

You get to see so much.

Lorhine Rose  

Treasures of Turkey

Very good value for money. fabulous itinerary, gre

Very good value for money. fabulous itinerary, great tour guide and some nice hotels.

Read all 20 reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

  • Book with Confidence

    When you book your holiday with Just You, you can have complete peace of mind. Your money is 100% protected through our Independent Trust Fund, any money you pay to us is held by them & governed by 3rd?party trustees. It is also a condition of our ATOL license and is regularly monitored by the Civil Aviation Authority. We don’t receive any money until after you’ve come back from your holiday – so your money is 100% protected no matter what. If you have any questions you can speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable holiday advisors.

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