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Cultural Triangle of Turkey - 8 days

Cultural Triangle of Turkey - 8 days

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Cultural Triangle of Turkey - 8 days | 2451/CTOT | Map

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~~$3025~~

$2881

Cultural Triangle of Turkey - 8 days

8 Days Starting and ending in Istanbul, Turkey

Visiting: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2451/CTOT

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 14

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

Not recommended for under 5yrs.

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, History, Ruins-Archaeology, Special Guest Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $3025 $2881 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$144

NB: Prices correct on 29-Jan-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Turkey's Cultural Triangle, exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes of this captivating country. Begin in Istanbul, where you'll marvel at iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and wander through the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Fly to Cappadocia to discover its unique rock formations, cave churches, and the fascinating Derinkuyu Underground City. Continue to Ephesus, home to the ancient Temple of Artemis and the impressive Library of Celsus. Relax in the thermal pools of Pamukkale and explore the ancient Roman spa town of Hierapolis. With comfortable 4-star accommodations, guided tours, and internal flights included, this small group tour offers an enriching cultural experience in Turkey's most iconic destinations.

Highlights

Istanbul - Explore the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
Cappadocia - Discover the unique landscape, rock-cut churches, and cave cities, with an option for a hot air balloon ride.
Ephesus - Visit the remains of the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsus.
Derinkuyu Underground City - Explore the intricate subterranean network of dwellings and churches.
Pamukkale - Walk along the stunning white calcium terraces and enjoy the thermal pools.
Hierapolis - Explore the ancient Roman spa town and swim in Cleopatra's Pool.

Itinerary

tourhub | On The Go Tours | Cultural Triangle of Turkey - 8 days | 2451/CTOT | Route Map

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Day 1: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation Name: Kent Hotel

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer from the airport to the hotel. The rest of today is free for you to relax in the hotel or head out and explore the only city in the world to straddle two continents!

Day 2: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Accommodation Name: Kent Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy a full-day guided sightseeing tour of the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople. You will see highlights of the city including the iconic exterior of Hagia Sophia, which was built by Emperor Justinian in the year 537 AD and was the largest church in Christendom for a thousand years!

Take in the Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, and the beautiful Blue Mosque before venturing into the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, which is a delightful assault on the senses. The evening is at leisure, or you could opt for a dinner cruise on the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Europe and Asia (book and pay locally).

Day 3: Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation Name: Dilek Kaya

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Istanbul - Kayseri - Cappadocia. Say goodbye to Istanbul as you are transferred to the airport for your included flight to Kayseri in central Turkey. From here you will be transported to Cappadocia, the land of subterranean cave cities and rock castles.

Our first stop in this remarkable region will be the Devrent Valley, which is often called the Imaginary Valley because thousands of years of erosion mean that many of the rock formations here look like animals - keep your eyes out for the camel, alligator, and dolphin! You'll also see the mushroom-shaped pinnacles at Pasabagi (Monk's Valley). After visiting Pasabagi, drive to Avanos which is known for pottery, a craft dating back to the Hittite period. The red clay used by the local craftsmen comes from the residue in the Kizilirmak River, the longest river of Turkey.

After lunch, visit the incredible open-air museum at Goreme, where you will explore some of the centuries-old rock-cut cave churches and other settlements. Following this visit, you'll be transferred back to your hotel.

Day 4: Cappadocia

Location: Cappadocia

Accommodation Name: Dilek Kaya

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning there's the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sail serenely over Cappadocia on an optional hot air balloon ride (book and pay locally).

Later, enjoy a scenic hike through the Ihlara Valley, a stunning landscape shaped by the volcanic activity of Mt. Hasan. The valley, nourished by the meandering Melendiz River near Belisirma, offers a serene and picturesque trail. Continue to Selime to explore its remarkable hollowed-out citadel and ancient churches, where fairy chimneys gracefully dot the steep hillsides. Also, visit Yaprakhisar village, a perfect spot to capture memorable photos of this enchanting region.

The journey also includes stops at the picturesque Pigeon Valley and the fascinating Derinkuyu Underground City. This remarkable subterranean complex features dwellings, stables, cellars, storage rooms, refectories, churches, and even wineries. Once used as a refuge by Christian communities, it offers a glimpse into a unique and resilient way of life.

Day 5: Kusadasi

Location: Kusadasi

Accommodation Name: Marina Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cappadocia - Kayseri - Izmir - Kusadasi. Say goodbye to Cappadocia as you are transferred to the airport for your included flight west to Izmir. From here you will be transported to the popular beach resort town of Kusadasi. The evening is at leisure.

Day 6: Ephesus

Annesha Bhowmik

Location: Ephesus

Accommodation Name: Marina Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today there is a full-day tour of the legendary ancient city of Ephesus. The city dates back centuries and there are relics from the ancient Greek and Roman empires. One of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World was once found here, the Temple of Artemis. Sadly it has been completely destroyed apart from a single column which you will see. The main highlights of Ephesus are the striking colonnaded Library of Celsus and the amphitheatre. This had a capacity of 25,000, which made it the largest amphitheatre in the ancient world.

There's also a visit to the House of Mother Mary, where the Virgin Mary is alleged to have spent her final years. After the tour, you will return to Kusadasi.

Day 7: Pamukkale

Location: Pamukkale

Accommodation Name: Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Kusadasi - Pamukkale. Leave Kusadasi and travel to Pamukkale, a jaw-dropping region where white calcium formations have built up over thousands of years due to the chemical properties of water in the area. The results are the 'cotton castles' and thermal pools of Pamukkale. Take a walk along the white water terraces known as travertines and enjoy a dip in the man-made pools at the bottom.

There is also a visit to the Roman spa town of Hierapolis, which was built by this historic civilization to make the most of the travertines. Explore the ruins and opt for a swim in Cleopatra's Pool. It was reportedly a gift to the Egyptian pharaoh from Marc Anthony and is the only place in the world where you can swim amongst real Roman columns; an earthquake hit the site in the 7th century which caused a nearby Temple of Apollo to collapse into the pool.

Day 8: Istanbul

Location: Istanbul

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pamukkale - Istanbul. Transfer to Denizli Airport today for your included flight back to Istanbul, where your tour comes to an end.

Alternatively, if you would like to extend your stay in Istanbul then we would be happy to arrange this for you. You can also opt to exclude the flight back to Istanbul if you wish.

What's Included

Accommodation
4-star hotels (5-star available)
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners

The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners.
7 nights 4-star hotels

Accommodation for 7 nights in 4-star hotels is included.
3 internal flights

The tour includes 3 internal flights: Istanbul to Kayseri, Kayseri to Izmir, and Pamukkale to Istanbul.
Private airport transfers

Private airport transfers are provided on days 1, 3, 5, and 8.
Shared sightseeing

Shared sightseeing tours in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Pamukkale with a maximum group size of 14 passengers are included.
English-speaking tour guide

An English-speaking, degree-qualified Turkish tour guide is provided for all included sightseeing.
All relevant transfers

All relevant transfers in private modern air-conditioned vehicles are included, as well as transportation for sightseeing tours in a modern air-conditioned touring vehicle/coach.
Entrance fees

Entrance fees for all included sightseeing are covered.

What's Not Included

International flights and visas

International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
Tipping

Tipping is not included and is considered an entirely personal gesture.
Optional activities

Optional activities such as a Bosphorus dinner cruise and Cappadocia hot air balloon ride are not included.

Accommodation

Experience a blend of contemporary design and comfort at the Kent Hotel in Istanbul, the charming Dilek Kaya in Cappadocia, the modern Marina Hotel with sea views in Kusadasi, and the Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel in Pamukkale, each offering unique amenities and prime locations.

Age Policy

Not recommended for under 5yrs.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with private airport transfers and modern air-conditioned vehicles for sightseeing. Enjoy three internal flights between Istanbul, Kayseri, and Izmir, ensuring a seamless journey across Turkey's cultural triangle.

Check out our Q&As

What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

The tour includes stays at 4-star hotels such as the Kent Hotel in Istanbul, Dilek Kaya in Cappadocia, Marina Hotel in Kusadasi, and Colossae Thermal Spa Hotel in Pamukkale. These hotels offer modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, pools, and spa facilities.
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

Yes, there are optional activities such as a Bosphorus dinner cruise in Istanbul and a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, which can be booked and paid for locally.
What meals are included in the tour package?

The tour package includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners.
Is there a guide provided for the sightseeing tours?

Yes, an English-speaking, degree-qualified Turkish tour guide will accompany you for all included sightseeing tours.
What is the maximum group size for the shared sightseeing tours?

The shared sightseeing tours are conducted with a maximum group size of 14 passengers.

Are airport transfers included in the tour?

Yes, private airport transfers are included on days 1, 3, 5, and 8 of the tour.
What is the policy regarding children on this tour?

The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years of age.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Since 1998
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot

Norma Sullivan

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10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free. Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions. The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too. On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places. I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace. If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 08, 2025

~~$3025~~ $2881 (USD)