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Introducing Turkey

Discover Turkey.
Go for the food and culture, stay for the sun and sand. Turkey offers one of the best archaeological and culinary experiences in the world—not to mention world-class beaches and sailing along its Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

Where should you go?

In the words of Napoleon, "If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital." Turkey's most famous city is filled with impressive Ottoman and Byzantine sites, excellent restaurants, and maze-like bazaars—you could easily plan an entire five-day trip around it. Another must-visit is moon-like Cappadocia, where "fairy chimneys" and underground cities decorate two otherworldly valleys. Other top picks include ancient Ephesus, the mineral spas of Pamukkale, and coastal Antalya.

When is the best time to visit?
There's a Turkish destination for every season—and in fact, much of the country is enjoyable year-round. Weather is dependably good in Antalya and Izmir, along with a number of notable small towns: Fethiye, Marmaris, Göcek, and Bodrum, to name a few. If you're heading north to Istanbul, know that it can get quite cold in winter (December-March). 

How many days do you need?
Nine to ten days is a great trip length for most travelers—it's enough time to cover the highlights and spend some time getting off the beaten path. Consider this classic 9-day tour that starts in Istanbul and continues to Cappadocia, Izmir, ancient Ephesus, and the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Or, you might combine Istanbul and Cappadocia with Konya, Antalya, and Fethiye. See more itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Turkey Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Sail over Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon ride
Map of Explore İstanbul & Cappadocia - 6 Days
Explore İstanbul & Cappadocia - 6 Days

In under a week, you can discover two of Turkey's most popular destinations—the bustling capital of Istanbul and the lunar-like valleys of Cappadocia. Explore the capital's Ottoman and Byzantine sites with guided walking tours, a trip to the Grand Bazaar, and a boat cruise along the Bosporus Strait. Then, fly to Cappadocia to admire its stunning valleys with a hot-air balloon ride over the "fairy chimneys" and visit to the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum and the underground city of Kaymaklı.

İstanbul's Ortaköy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge
Map of Highlights of Turkey - 10 Days
Highlights of Turkey - 10 Days

Over 10 packed days, you'll experience the highlights of Turkey, from the Ottoman and Byzantine monuments in Istanbul to the lunar valleys of Cappadocia. It's an itinerary that includes adventurous hot-air balloon rides and explorations of ancient city ruins. Plus, you'll have time to relax in a natural spa between the fun city tours and outdoor excursions.

Famous Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia
Explore Classic Turkey From Istanbul to Pamukkale - 9 Days

This 9-day tour will explore the diverse regions of Turkey, starting with a guided tour and a boat cruise in the vibrant city of Istanbul, discovering the famous Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman sites. Next head to the lunar-like terrain of Cappadocia where you can take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning valleys, visit a historical caravanserai, and explore the underground city of Kaymakli. After discovering Izmir and the ancient city of Ephesus, end your trip at a spa hotel near the famous white travertine terraces of Pamukkale.

Adorned Fishing Boats in Istanbul
Explore the Sites of Istanbul - 5 Days

Channeling the words of Napoleon, "If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital", this tour explores the Ottoman and Byzantine sites of the city, including the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. View these grandiose structures by boat by cruising along the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara, stopping on the island of Buyukada for a peek into the posh life of the 19th century. Peruse the Spice Market, explore the hip neighborhood of Beyoğlu, and climb the Galata Tower for amazing views of the city.

Hikers on the Lycian Way
Map of Hiking the Lycian Way in Turkey: Kas, Adrasan & Antalya - 9 Days
Hiking the Lycian Way in Turkey: Kas, Adrasan & Antalya - 9 Days

On this 9-day tour, you'll hike the famous Lycian Way, an ancient trade along Turkey's Mediterranean coast. You will be completing the trail from west to east, beginning in Kas, continuing to through Adrasan, and finally ending in Antalya. On the way, you will pass through ancient Lycian cities like Phellos,  Aperlai, Phaselis, and Cirali. You will also tour remote Mediterranean villages by boat, visit sites featured in Greek mythology, and enjoy some of southern Turkey's most beautiful scenery.

Ruins of the ancient city of Perge
Map of Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Konya - 9 Days
Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Konya - 9 Days

Embark on a trip through Turkey's history and discover why this country was one of the most important forces of the ancient world. Begin in Istanbul, a melting pot of east and west which straddles the European and Asian continental border, and end in Antalya, home of some of the world's best-preserved ancient sites. Along the way, you'll visit the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, cruise down the Bosphorus River, and visit the tomb of famed Sufi mystic and poet Rumi.

Make the Most of Your Time in Turkey

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Hagia Sophia Mosque mosque, Istanbul
How Many Days to Spend in Turkey

Turkey is a huge country, so unless you have three weeks or more, it's wise not to spread yourself too thin. How long to spend will depend on whether you're on a quick,...

Facade of the ancient Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey
Map of 1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With seven days in Turkey, you can experience the best of the country's highlights on a classic tour of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Izmir. Alternatively, take a deep dive into...

Istanbul
Map of 10 Days in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, you can mix and match adventures to create the perfect vacation in Turkey. A highlights tour will take you from the Ottoman monuments of Istanbul to the fairy tale...

Sail high above Turkey's iconic Cappadocia on a sunrise hot air balloon tour
Map of 2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Turkey gives you carte blanche to explore high and low, from the historic streets of Istanbul to the lunar valleys of Cappadocia to the sun-kissed Turquoise Coast....

Turkey Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Turkey Content

Active travelers can include a stretch of the Lycian Way in their 15-day Turkey itinerary
Map of 15 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
15 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Given Turkey's small size, you can visit at least five regions in 15 days. Foodies will enjoy sampling Istanbul's street food and cooking with a chef in Cappadocia. Those interested in history and heritage will appreciate a whirling dervish performance and guided tours to archaeological sites such as Ephesus. Travelers eager to unwind can indulge in a Turkish spa treatment and relax on Antalya's beaches, while those who prefer an active itinerary can trek the Lycian Way or dive along the Turquoise Coast.

With just under two weeks, you'll have time to combine must-visit landscapes like Cappadocia with city and coastal highlights
Map of 13 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
13 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 13 days in Turkey, you can hit the highlights at a slower pace or delve deeper into your interests with a more focused itinerary. Foodies can taste street eats in Istanbul and learn to cook with a stone oven in Cappadocia. History buffs should check off numerous archaeological sites like Troy, Ephesus, and Aspendos. Active travelers can hike amid Love Valley's rock formations and tackle a section of the Lycian Way, while the Turquoise Coast beckons to those looking for a relaxed adventure on land and sea.

With 12 days you can get beyond the standard highlights and see Turkish gems like Antalya, with its distinctive minarets
Map of 12 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
12 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

The availability of domestic flights makes it possible to visit at least five regions of Turkey in 12 days. Get an introduction to Turkish history with guided tours that include Ephesus and Istanbul's Hagia Sophia. Culinary travelers will enjoy an Eminonu street food tour and wine tasting in Sirince. Those keen on cultural experiences can join a pottery demonstration in Avanos and a cooking class in Cappadocia, while adventurers will appreciate e-biking in Antalya, scuba diving near Kas, and hiking the Lycian Way.

Turkey Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 5 Days in Turkey - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Turkey - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Turkey
Travel specialist Berat Ornek
active 10 hours ago

Berat Ornek

Having worked in the museum sector for quite some time, I have honed my skills in creating valuable experiences for visitors who want to explore a new collection of artifacts, a cultural site or a...

read more...
Travel specialist Murat Ornek
active 56 mins ago

Murat Ornek

Thanks to my Turkish and Guatemalan family spread around the world, when I was younger traveling was all about visiting relatives in different countries. Since my early 20s I have been doing trips...

read more...
Travel specialist Zehra Alper
active 1 min ago

Zehra Alper

I have been more like a traveler until I met Unison Turkey. In my college years, I was a traveler, mostly exploring Turkey. After gaining enough experience, I wanted to make use of my experiences,...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Turkey

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing trip!
Turkey | Oct 27 - Nov 5, 2024

L
Linda A.
North Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Nov 13, 2024
The trip to Turkey was such an amazing trip and exceeded all my expectation. My initial planning was with Murat. He was very patient and responsive to all my questions. My dates had not finalized yet and he was very patient throughout the process. I then got a chance to work with Berat who was amazing with all her recommendations and planning. She was very responsive to all my questions and was very accommodating. There was an issue with travel plans but she was very patient and made all... Read more

The trip to Turkey was such an amazing trip and exceeded all my expectation. My initial planning was with Murat. He was very patient and responsive to all my questions. My dates had not finalized yet and he was very patient throughout the process. I then got a chance to work with Berat who was amazing with all her recommendations and planning. She was very responsive to all my questions and was very accommodating. There was an issue with travel plans but she was very patient and made all the necessary changes needed which was greatly appreciated. While in Turkey, all the suggested tours, guides and drivers were amazing. The hotels were great and I feel like the itinerary showed the best of Turkey. Special shout out to both Hatice and Oguzhan who were both great guides and very informative as well as very attentive. The trip was so amazing because of this. Thank you so much. I would highly recommend Berat and her team to anyone.

Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Nov 13, 2024

Dear Linda,

Thank you so much for your positive review!

We are so glad to hear you had a great time with us in Turkey -- look forward to welcoming you again to our country.

Best regards,
Berat

Turkey was amazing and Berat and team did an incredible job.
Turkey | Oct 19 - Nov 2, 2024

Ed
Ed H.
Greenwood Village, CO | Reviewed on Nov 12, 2024
This was my second booking with KIMKIM and it didn't disappoint. Both times I have used this service I have been blown away. Our guide was amazing (I must start there). Hatice traveled with us for the entire 11 days and she was absolutely fabulous. She was knowledgeable, friendly and wonderful. She was like part of the family before we left. We shared meals, met her family and had just an incredible time. She made reservations at restaurants, knew the best times to visit each... Read more

This was my second booking with KIMKIM and it didn't disappoint. Both times I have used this service I have been blown away. Our guide was amazing (I must start there). Hatice traveled with us for the entire 11 days and she was absolutely fabulous. She was knowledgeable, friendly and wonderful. She was like part of the family before we left. We shared meals, met her family and had just an incredible time. She made reservations at restaurants, knew the best times to visit each attraction and treated us like she knew us forever. It was an incredible experience. Of course, Berat and her team did an amazing job with all the arrangements. The hotels, food and locations were exactly what we wanted and needed for our vacation. Turkey is a magical safe place that everyone should enjoy at least once in their life. You will see amazing historical places, eat too much (watch the ice cream) and love living life there.

Hotel Reviews
Kale Konak Hotel

Great hotel in an incredible location. Do get up early and walk down the street to watch the balloons float by!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Olympos Mountain Lodge

This lodge is in a wonderful natural setting with a great breakfast buffet. The bread is fresh baked and the dinner was magical. Chef Mehmet Ali Bortucene is so talented. The food was absolutely amazing. Do yourself a favor and walk around the little village outside the gate and enjoy the local people (and especially the goats). What a fabulous experience. This is definitely a place to come back to. It was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The staff is wonderful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nisanyan Houses
Selçuk

The Nisanyan Houses Hotel was the best place we stayed in Turkey! The staff was amazing! The food was awesome and the locality to the local town was great. We walked through the stone alleyways down to the town and shopped, ate and enjoyed the local culture. If you visit Turkey you should absolutely staff here. It was truly an amazing place (also visit the tower on the property). Our hosts and staff made us feel like we lived there. Truly amazing stay!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Antalya
Antalya

This hotel is in a great location. it is a typical ramada but the breakfast room has an amazing view! I would recommend eating there

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Bank Hotel
Istanbul

Great hotel in a great location. The staff was amazing and we truly enjoyed the dinning experience and the rooftop bar!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Nov 13, 2024

Dear Ed,

Thanks so much for this great review!

It was a joy to host you and we are glad to hear you had a nice time in Turkey.

Kind regards,
Berat

Wow! Kimkim did a wonderful job putting toget...
Turkey | Oct 15 - Oct 22, 2024

JAMES L
JAMES L W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 04, 2024
Wow! Kimkim did a wonderful job putting together a trip tailored to our specific interests and needs. The guides made Turkey’s fascinating history come alive and exciting. Kimkin’s accommodating our last minute requests for a hot air balloon ride and cooking class was especially appreciated.
The only suggestion I have is to rethink the “sunset wine tasting.” Because it was too cold, we had to move that activity indoors. Rather than the alternate location chosen you might consider a venue ...
Read more

Wow! Kimkim did a wonderful job putting together a trip tailored to our specific interests and needs. The guides made Turkey’s fascinating history come alive and exciting. Kimkin’s accommodating our last minute requests for a hot air balloon ride and cooking class was especially appreciated.
The only suggestion I have is to rethink the “sunset wine tasting.” Because it was too cold, we had to move that activity indoors. Rather than the alternate location chosen you might consider a venue other than an enclosed space without windows. Maybe the courtyard of Murat’s hotel?
Overall, Kimkim made this a great vacation and provided seamless service. Thank you!

Hotel Reviews
The Marmara Pera
Istanbul
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Armada Hotel
Istanbul
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Millstone Cave Suites
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Nov 05, 2024

Many thanks, James for your positive review! We are glad to hear you had a nice time with us.

Best regards,
Berat