6 Days | From the south coast to the north, explore central Turkey and Cappadocia
Spend six days discovering some of the best bits of central Turkey and Cappadocia. From the Mediterranean Sea in the south to the northern capital city of Istanbul, immerse yourself in the culture and history of a truly unique country. Explore Konya and maybe learn about the practices of Sufism and the art and performance of the whirling dervish. Spend three days in Cappadocia among the fairy chimneys and hot air balloons. Hike through the rocky landscape and natural sandstone monoliths, then make your way to Istanbul – the city that melds European and Middle Eastern cultures into one.
Trip overview
- Start
- Antalya, Turkey
- Finish
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Theme
- 18 to 35s
- Destinations
- Turkey
- Physical rating
- Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
- Style
- Basix
- Ages
- Min 18- Max 35
- Group size
- Min 1 - Max 16
- Trip code
- ERYC
- Dine in the home of a local family, where you’ll be treated to a traditional home-cooked Turkish meal and have the opportunity to learn about life in the desert.
- Explore the weird and wonderful world of Cappadocia – this might be the most unusual place in Turkey. Learn all about its fairy chimneys and sprawling rock formations from your expert local leader.
- Wander the warrens of underground cities, homes and churches carved straight into the sandstone of the Cappadocian desert, and maybe opt to gaze down at the city from above on a sunrise hot air balloon ride.
- The thriving metropolis of Istanbul is where East literally meets West. Discover the highlights and the history of this incredible city that melds the cultures of two continents.
- Learn about the history and culture that was born in Konya, from the teachings of Sufism to the art and skill of the whirling dervish.
- As this trip does not spend time exploring Antalya, we highly recommend staying a few extra days before your tour to enjoy all this great city has to offer.
- You’ll get a taste of local life on this trip, with most travel done on public buses. This minimises our carbon footprint and gives you a real chance to interact with the local community. Most Turkish buses have wi-fi, in-seat entertainment and serve refreshments.
- Lots of time allocated for optional activities means freedom and flexibility, but it does require a level of independence. Only are few meals are included, so mostly you'll find your own (with plenty of suggestions from your leader of course). This trip puts it in your hands with tonnes of free time. Maybe budget a little extra cash for activities that aren’t included.
- Summer temperatures can be very high in Turkey (over 40°C), which can make things uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat, and drink plenty of water. You’ll need walking shoes and a daypack to explore some of historical sites. It can also get cool in these destinations, particularly from October to April, so don't forget to pack extra layers if travelling at this time.
- This trip is part of a longer itinerary. You might be joining travellers who have already spent some time together. If you have more time to explore, you might like to check out Real Turkey
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025
Itinerary
Inclusions
4 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Public Bus, Overnight Bus, Tram
Hotel (4 nights), Overnight Bus (1 night)
- Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
- Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home
- Cappadocia - Sunset Hike
- Cappadocia - Pigeon Valley and Devrent Valley
- Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
- Istanbul - Historical Peninsula Tour
- Cappadocia - Hamam Turkish Bath - EUR60
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight - EUR275
- Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight - EUR325
- Goreme - Whirling dervish performance - EUR30
- Goreme - Open Air Museum - EUR20
- Goreme - Bike Riding - EUR230
Dates and availability
Important notes
1. Single supplement is bookable on this trip and is subject to availability. The single supplement excludes Day 4 (Overnight Bus).
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