Best of Turkey Small Group Tour

Traveling to Turkey is a fantastic idea for anyone craving a blend of ancient sites, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This 11-day small group tour from Sojourn Turkey promises to take you through the highlights—think Istanbul’s historic mosques and markets, the otherworldly terrain of Cappadocia, the ruins of Ephesus, and the scenic Mediterranean coast in Antalya. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear this experience resonates well with travelers.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances structured sightseeing with moments of relaxation and discovery. The inclusion of luxurious cave hotels in Cappadocia offers a memorable overnight experience, and the flight segments help keep the pace comfortable. Another highlight: the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey not just informative but also enjoyable.

One thing to keep in mind is the price—at $4,300 per person, it’s on the higher end. But considering the all-inclusive nature with hotels, entrance fees, and internal flights covered, many find it to be a good value for the convenience and depth of experience. Still, it’s worth noting that the trip requires a moderate physical fitness level, especially with walking and outdoor exploration.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Turkey with a guided touch—ideal for first-timers or travelers who prefer the comfort of a curated experience. If you enjoy learning from enthusiastic guides and have a curiosity for history, culture, and natural beauty, this one could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Turkish highlights, from Istanbul to Antalya
• Expert guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness
• Luxury accommodation, including cave hotels in Cappadocia, enhances the experience
• Flight logistics save time and keep the trip comfortable
• Small group setting offers personalized attention, with a maximum of 12 travelers
• Price point reflects the all-inclusive, curated nature of the tour

A Fully Loaded Overview of the Tour

This Best of Turkey Small Group Tour offers a well-crafted package that mixes history, culture, and scenery across 11 days. It’s designed for travelers who want to see Turkey’s essential sites without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Let’s break down what each part of the trip entails and what you can expect.

Starting in Istanbul: The Historic Heart

Your adventure kicks off in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, a hub packed with history. The tour begins with a private guide greeting you at the airport and escorting you to your hotel—situated atop one of the city’s iconic seven hills, which means fantastic views and proximity to key sights.

Your first day involves wandering through the Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture and storytelling, and the Blue Mosque, with its impressive domes and minarets. The Hippodrome and Basilica Cistern follow, giving you a taste of both Byzantine grandeur and Roman engineering. You also get time to explore the Grand Bazaar, a sprawling market that embodies Istanbul’s lively spirit. Reviewers have called the guides “knowledgeable, patient, helpful,” emphasizing how well they enhance the experience.

Diving Deeper into Istanbul’s Treasures

The next day focuses on Topkapi Palace, Ottoman grandeur and secret chambers. Visitors often marvel at its treasures and the hidden chambers of the Imperial Harem. Lunch at a local spot offers a break from the busy sights, and a cruise on the Bosphorus Strait adds a scenic touch. One reviewer mentioned that the guides are not only informative but also have “wonderful and unique senses of humor,” making the day engaging.

Transitioning to Cappadocia: An Otherworldly Landscape

After several days immersed in Istanbul, it’s time to fly to Cappadocia, a region celebrated for its lunar-like terrain and cave dwellings. The first day here includes visits to Uchisar Fortress, OrtaHisar, and the Red Valley. The landscape is striking—volcanic formations, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave sites.

Staying overnight in a luxurious cave hotel is a highlight, providing a truly unique lodging experience. The guides take pride in sharing interesting facts about the area’s geology and history, with many travelers noting the stunning views and tour guides’ friendliness as standout features.

Exploring Cappadocia’s Hidden Gems

The next day takes you to Zelve Open Air Museum, a complex of houses, churches, and mosques carved directly into the rock formations. Pasabag (Fairy Chimneys) and the Goreme Open Air Museum are also on the agenda, showcasing rock-cut churches with frescoes and underground cities like Kaymakli. The guides’ deep knowledge about the sites makes these moments more meaningful; one review praised the “well prepared” guides who explained the significance of each site clearly.

Moving Toward the Aegean Coast: Ephesus and Kusadasi

A quick flight to Izmir takes you to the Aegean region, where the historical city of Ephesus awaits. Here, you’ll walk through the well-preserved ruins and visit the Terraced Houses and the Ephesus Archaeology Museum.

The visit to Mary’s House and St. John’s Basilica adds layers of spiritual and historical context, while the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, offers a glimpse into ancient architectural achievement. Travelers have found the guides “friendly with wonderful and unique senses of humor,” making the experience engaging even during extensive walks.

Coastal Relaxation and Ancient Sites in Antalya

The journey continues overland to Antalya, with a stop at Pamukkale, famous for its thermal waters and white travertine terraces. The optional swim in Cleopatra’s baths is a bonus, often praised by travelers for its relaxing vibe. Afterward, you’ll settle into a hotel on the coast with sweeping views of the sea—perfect for unwinding.

In Antalya, the exploration continues with Perge and Aspendos, ancient cities with impressive ruins and well-preserved theaters. The Termessos site, perched high on a mountain overlooking the water, offers a unique outdoor experience and some of the best views in Turkey. The Antalya Museum and Kaleici old town round out your sightseeing, with many reviewers appreciating the balance of outdoor exploration and culture.

Final Day and Departure

On the last day, your private driver will transfer you back to the airport, concluding your Turkish adventure. The tour’s logistics aim to be smooth, with many reviewers highlighting how the flights, pickups, and accommodations all worked seamlessly, thanks to the tour operator’s careful planning.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention knowledgeable guides as a major plus. One said, “Sakis Leonidis was fantastic,” highlighting the importance of having guides who are both well-informed and personable. Others appreciated how the guides seamlessly adapted plans, especially when weather or other circumstances required flexibility—showing that the tour operators are attentive and responsive.

The luxury accommodations, especially in Cappadocia, seem to elevate the trip from standard sightseeing to a memorable experience. Several reviews describe the hotels as “lovely” or “exceptional,” indicating comfort and style are priorities.

While the price might seem high for some, many reviewers feel that the value is justified given the all-inclusive nature, the clarity of logistics, and the quality of guides and hotels. The small group size—capped at 12—ensures a more personalized approach, which travelers find beneficial.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 11-day tour is best suited to travelers who want a rundown of Turkey without the hassle of planning logistics or booking independent flights and hotels. It works especially well for first-time visitors eager to hit the highlights with an experienced guide by their side.

If you’re someone who appreciates great storytelling, stunning scenery, and comfortable accommodations, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. The pace involves some walking and outdoor exploration, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. It’s ideal for those who value a curated experience and don’t mind paying a premium for convenience and expert guidance.

FAQ

Is there pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from the airport, simplifying the start of your journey.

Are flights between regions included?
Yes, internal flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia and Cappadocia to Izmir are part of the package, helping save time and keep the trip moving smoothly.

What does the price include?
The cost covers accommodations, most entrance fees, some meals (including 8 lunches), and guided sightseeing.

Are the hotels luxurious?
Many of the hotels, especially in Cappadocia, are described as luxurious, including cave hotels that provide a truly unique and comfortable stay.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While families can enjoy Turkey’s sights, this tour is geared towards travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and outdoor exploration.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides are praised for their attentiveness and flexibility, with some reviews mentioning they can adapt plans due to weather or personal preferences.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind when booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comfortable, well-organized tour that hits all the major sights with the help of knowledgeable guides, this Best of Turkey Small Group Tour is worth considering. It’s especially appealing for those who value luxury accommodations, seamless logistics, and expert commentary.

While the price might be a consideration, the overall experience—highlighted by stunning scenery, historic sites, and the chance to relax in style—can justify the expense. For travelers eager to get a broad yet detailed view of Turkey’s treasures, this tour seems to offer a robust, thoughtfully curated package.

This experience is ideal for curious first-timers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a smooth, guided introduction to Turkey’s diverse landscapes and cultures. If that sounds like your kind of trip, this tour could be just the ticket.