Immerse yourself in Turkey’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This private, all-ground tour takes you through the country’s most iconic destinations and hidden gems, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey from start to finish.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Embark on an immersive 11-day journey through Turkey’s rich history and diverse landscapes. This private, all-ground tour ensures a seamless experience, guiding you from the vibrant streets of Istanbul to the ancient wonders of Ephesus, the surreal terrains of Cappadocia, and the tranquil travertines of Pamukkale.
With personalized service and flexible itineraries, you’ll delve deep into the cultural offerings of Turkey, exploring both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Each day offers a blend of guided exploration and free time, allowing you to connect authentically with the local heritage and savor the country’s culinary delights.
Detailed Itinerary
This 11-day private tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deep dive into Turkey’s history, culture, and breathtaking natural wonders. With all travel conducted in a comfortable private vehicle, you’ll enjoy scenic drives, personalized service, and the flexibility to tailor the experience to your pace and interests.
Day 1: Welcome to Turkey!
Your adventure begins upon your arrival in Istanbul, where you will be greeted by your private guide and driver. You’ll be escorted to your hotel for check-in and provided with an overview of the journey ahead. Spend the evening settling in, exploring the vibrant city streets, or relaxing at your leisure.
Highlights of the Day:
- Private airport transfer and welcome meeting
- Evening free for leisure
Includes: Airport Transfer | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2: Istanbul City Sightseeing
Dive into Istanbul’s rich history with a full day of exploration. Begin at Topkapi Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for centuries. Stroll through the Hippodrome, the heart of Constantinople’s social life during Byzantine times, and marvel at the iconic Blue Mosque. Finish the day with an exterior view of the Hagia Sophia, and if desired, visit its breathtaking interiors (additional fee applies).
Highlights of the Day:
- Touring Topkapi Palace
- Exploring the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque
- Optional interior visit to Hagia Sophia
Includes: Breakfast | Private Guided Tour | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Istanbul.
Day 3: Scenic Drive to Ankara
Enjoy a relaxing morning with an optional visit to the Bosphorus, where you can cruise between Europe and Asia while admiring the stunning Ottoman villas and fortresses along the shores. Later, embark on a scenic drive to Ankara, Turkey’s capital. Along the way, stop at picturesque viewpoints to stretch your legs and take photos.
Highlights of the Day:
- Optional Bosphorus cruise experience
- Scenic private drive to Ankara with stops for sightseeing
Includes: Breakfast | Private Vehicle | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Ankara.
Day 4: Discovering Ankara & Journey to Cappadocia
Begin the day by exploring Ankara’s top attractions, including the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which houses incredible artifacts from Turkey’s ancient past. Visit the Mausoleum of Ataturk, dedicated to the founder of modern Turkey, before setting off on a scenic drive to Cappadocia. Along the way, stop at Saratli Underground City, a fascinating network of subterranean tunnels.
Highlights of the Day:
- Visiting the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
- Touring the Mausoleum of Ataturk
- Exploring Saratli Underground City
Includes: Breakfast | Private Vehicle | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 5: Exploring the Wonders of Cappadocia
Start your day with an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s dramatic landscapes. After breakfast, visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, famous for its rock-hewn churches and ancient frescoes. Continue to Love Valley and Pasabag (Monks Valley) to see its unique fairy chimneys and the pottery town of Avanos for a hands-on workshop in a traditional cave setting.
Highlights of the Day:
- Optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise
- Touring Göreme Open Air Museum and Pasabagi
- Pottery workshop in Avanos
Includes: Breakfast | Private Guided Tour | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 6: Long Drive to Pamukkale
Embark on a scenic full-day drive to Pamukkale, passing through small towns and beautiful countryside. Take breaks at charming roadside cafes and enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel westward. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax for the evening.
Highlights of the Day:
- Scenic private drive with stops along the route
- Evening relaxation in Pamukkale
Includes: Breakfast | Private Vehicle | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Pamukkale.
Day 7: Pamukkale & Hierapolis
Begin the day exploring the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale, a natural wonder formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Visit the nearby ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city. After lunch, embark on a drive to the vibrant city of Izmir, located on the Aegean coast.
Highlights of the Day:
- Walking on Pamukkale’s travertine terraces
- Discovering the ancient city of Hierapolis
Includes: Breakfast | Private Vehicle | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Izmir.
Day 8: Ephesus & House of the Virgin Mary
Explore the world-famous ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Hadrian. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be where she spent her final years. Optionally, visit the charming village of Şirince for local wine tasting and scenic views.
Highlights of the Day:
- Touring the ancient city of Ephesus
- Visiting the House of the Virgin Mary
- Optional excursion to Şirince village
Includes: Breakfast | Private Guided Tour | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Izmir.
Day 9: Pergamum & Troy
Travel north to Pergamum and explore its ancient Acropolis, renowned for its dramatic hillside location. Continue to Troy, where you’ll discover its legendary ruins and see the iconic replica of the Trojan Horse. End the day in the seaside town of Çanakkale.
Highlights of the Day:
- Exploring Pergamum’s Acropolis
- Touring the ruins of Troy
Includes: Breakfast | Private Vehicle | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Çanakkale.
Day 10: Gallipoli Memorials & Return to Istanbul
Visit the historic Gallipoli Peninsula, where you’ll learn about the WWI battles fought here. See ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, and Chunuk Bair before returning to Istanbul for a farewell evening.
Highlights of the Day:
Includes: Breakfast | Private Guided Tour | Hotel Accommodation
Next Destination: Stay overnight in Istanbul.
Day 11: Goodbye!
Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before a private transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Includes: Breakfast | Airport Transfer
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is conducted entirely by private vehicle, offering a seamless and intimate travel experience. You’ll enjoy personalized service, flexibility in the itinerary, and the chance to soak in Turkey’s stunning landscapes during scenic drives. From Istanbul to Cappadocia, each day is designed to provide a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
No, this tour is conducted entirely overland by private vehicle. By skipping flights, you’ll experience more of Turkey’s stunning countryside and have the flexibility to stop at interesting sites along the way. This approach also allows for a more relaxed and immersive journey.
Yes! While the tour covers Turkey’s major highlights with a guide, you’ll also have free time in places like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale to explore at your own pace. Your guide will provide recommendations for dining, shopping, and local attractions.
The tour includes daily breakfasts, but lunches and dinners are not included. This allows you the flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own. Your guide will be happy to recommend great local restaurants at each destination.
The tour includes moderate physical activity, such as walking through ancient ruins, exploring underground cities, and short hikes in Cappadocia. There’s even the option of riding horses in these beautiful valleys. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, and the pace can be adjusted based on your preferences.
You’ll stay in carefully selected boutique hotels and comfortable accommodations that reflect the charm of each region. For example, in Cappadocia, you’ll experience staying in an authentic cave hotel for a truly unique experience.
The hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is an optional activity and is not included in the base tour price. However, we highly recommend it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your guide can assist with booking this unforgettable adventure.
Absolutely! This is a private tour, so the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you want to spend more time in a specific city or add unique activities like a visit to Şirince village or a local market, we can customize the experience to match your interests.
Tour Includes
- Private transportation in a comfortable vehicle
- Accommodation in carefully selected hotels
- Daily breakfasts
- Guided tours with an expert guide
Tour Excludes
- Lunches and dinners
- Entrance fees to optional sites
- Personal expenses and gratuities
Get in Touch with Us
At The Other Tour, we specialize in creating unique private tours tailored to your preferences. With seamless logistics, personalized service, and unforgettable destinations, this all-ground tour ensures a smooth and enriching experience.
Contact us today and let’s start planning your dream trip through Turkey!
🔹 Want to see even more of the country? Take a look at our 12-day Turkey tour to explore Turkey from Istanbul to the Aegean and beyond.
Hey there. I’m interested in an 8-day version of this tour without Ankara? Is that at all possible? We can also cut some days from Istanbul and/or Cappadocia. Please let me know. Thanks!
Hey Meryl! Thanks for the question. Yes, customization is welcome as long as it’s possible. We will send you a detailed itinerary of what an 8-day Turkey tour that covers Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Pergamon and Gallipoli tour might look like. One question: would you mind doing the tour in the opposite direction? So, start with Gallipoli and make the same loop in the opposite direction towards Cappadocia? That might make it easier now that we are removing Ankara.