Eastern Turkey 12-Day Sightseeing Tour from Trabzon

Planning a trip to the eastern part of Turkey? There’s a lot to see and experience—ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant local culture—and if you prefer your adventure organized and hassle-free, this 12-day guided tour from Trabzon might just be worth considering. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to give you the honest scoop, so you can decide if it fits what you’re after.

What we love most about this tour? First, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of Eastern Turkey’s diverse history and scenery—from the monumental Sumela Monastery hanging on a cliff to the ancient ruins of Ani. Second, the expert local guides seem to elevate the experience, making history come alive and sharing insider knowledge you wouldn’t get alone.

One potential downside? The itinerary involves a good amount of driving—there’s a lot of distance between sites—so if you’re not comfortable on long bus rides, this might feel tiring. Also, at around $3,850 per person, it’s on the pricier side, but when you consider the included flights, hotels, entrance fees, and meals, many travelers find it offers decent value for a comprehensive experience.

This trip is probably best suited for history lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those who appreciate guided tours that cover a lot of ground without the stress of planning every detail. It’s also good for travelers who want a mix of cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and some outdoor adventures, all led by knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major sites across Eastern Turkey, including UNESCO-listed ruins and natural wonders
• All logistics handled, including two domestic flights, transportation, breakfasts, and dinners
• Expert guides with local knowledge greatly enhance the experience and storytelling
• Long drives are part of the itinerary, so physical comfort and patience are helpful
• Good value considering the number of sites, meals, and flights included
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and some travel time

Deep Dive into the Eastern Turkey 12-Day Tour

This guided tour is designed to give a broad yet detailed picture of Turkey’s eastern regions, combining history, nature, and local culture into one package. It’s clear that the tour operator, ALKANS TOUR, has crafted an itinerary that balances must-see highlights with enough downtime to appreciate each location.

Starting Strong: Trabzon’s Historic Roots

Your journey begins in Trabzon, a city with a deep Christian past. The Hagia Sophia Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Byzantine architecture, with its impressive frescoes and history of religious transformation. It’s a solid start that sets the tone for a trip full of ancient sites.

From there, heading into the Altindere National Park to visit the Sumela Monastery is a highlight. Hanging from a 1200-foot cliff, the monastery’s location alone makes it a memorable stop. Originally a monastic site from the 4th century, it’s now a symbol of Christian perseverance and awe-inspiring scenery. Visitors consistently rave about the views, and reviews mention how the monastery’s dramatic setting “hangs from the side of a cliff,” making it perfect for photos and reflection.

Venturing into the Mountain Valleys and Ancient Churches

After Trabzon, the tour takes you through the Coruh Valley, known for its unspoiled landscapes and rugged beauty. Visits to Ishan Church and Tortum Waterfall add historical and natural layers to your experience. The Tortum Waterfall is Turkey’s tallest waterfall and offers an opportunity for a walk down to the base—good for stretching your legs and soaking in the scenery.

Erzurum, a city with a lively historical ambiance, is next. Here, you’ll see the Yakutiye Medrese—a 14th-century madrasa turned museum—giving insight into local Islamic culture and architecture. The city’s central sites, including the Great Mosque and bazaar, help you feel the pulse of local life, as travelers noted they enjoyed walking around and observing everyday activities.

The Ancient City of Ani and Mount Ararat

Kars introduces you to the Ani Ruins, often called the “City of 1001 Churches.” These remains, dating from the 10th century, showcase the once-glorious Armenian capital. Visitors often talk about the stunning frescoes and defensive walls, which still evoke a sense of grandeur. The Ani Cathedral stand as a testament to medieval craftsmanship, and many mention that exploring these ruins felt like walking through history.

From there, you get to Mount Ararat, famed for its biblical connection and commanding presence. The tour offers a view around the mountain’s western edge—an opportunity to appreciate the towering peak from a safe distance, with free access to the area.

Palaces, Castles, and Volcanic Wonders

In Dogubeayzit, the Ishak Pasha Palace offers an intricate mix of architectural styles—Ottoman, Persian, Georgian—that reflect the crossroads of civilizations. Even in ruins, the palace’s details and grandeur stir the imagination.

Driving along Lake Van, the tour visits Akdamar Island and its beautifully restored Church of the Holy Cross, notable for its relief sculptures and serene setting. Many find this site to be a highlight, praising its “superb architecture” and peaceful surroundings.

Hosap Castle and Van Castle provide a glimpse into Urartian and medieval history, with fortress walls that have stood for centuries. Travelers have told us these sites are both photogenic and historically significant, offering fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.

Unique Geological and Archaeological Sites

Nemrut Golu is a volcanic caldera with five lakes—an otherworldly landscape that deserves a full day’s exploration. The legend of the Tombs of Antiochus and the iconic colossal statues make it an unforgettable place for history buffs and sunrise or sunset watchers alike. As one reviewer put it, watching the sunset from the summit “made the trip worth every penny.”

The recent discovery of Göbekli Tepe is also a game-changer for archaeology enthusiasts. This site, dating back to 11,000-13,000 years ago, shows humanity’s earliest known religious architecture. Visiting during ongoing excavations adds a sense of being part of something historic.

Cultural and Religious Landmarks

The tour also covers Hasankeyf, with its ancient caves and Byzantine ruins along the Tigris River. Many reviews note the charm of this town and its significance as a cultural crossroads.

In Sanliurfa, you visit the Holy Pools of Abraham and the cave believed to be the Prophet Abraham’s birthplace. The Sanliurfa Museum exhibits findings from nearby archaeological sites, offering a deeper understanding of this region’s long-standing spiritual and cultural history.

Concluding in Gaziantep

Finally, the journey concludes in Gaziantep, well-known for its culinary scene. The Zeugma Mosaic Museum displays astonishing mosaics from the ancient city of Zeugma, submerged under the Ataturk Dam. Visitors often mention that the mosaics alone make the trip worthwhile. Gaziantep’s food, heavily influenced by the blending of cultures, is another highlight—think spicy kebabs and unique local specialties.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Most travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—with many citing Sabahattin and Cemil as the kind of guides who bring history and culture to life. Several reviewers emphasize how the tour’s organization, from flights to accommodations, runs smoothly and makes everything feel effortless.

For some, the long drives are a minor inconvenience, but most seem to accept this as part of exploring such a vast and remote area. Many reviews mention the stunning vistas and the variety of sites—from ancient ruins to natural wonders—that make the trip feel diverse and fulfilling.

On the food front, travelers particularly enjoy the local cuisine, noting that Gaziantep’s spicy dishes are a standout. The tour’s inclusion of breakfasts and dinners adds convenience, allowing you to indulge without worry.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the price point—$3,850 per person—yet many feel the combination of flights, guided narration, entrance fees, and meals offers good value for such an extensive itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history and culture buffs who love exploring ancient sites and learning stories behind them. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and long bus rides, you’ll likely enjoy the pace. It’s also a good pick for travelers who want a guided experience that takes care of travel logistics while offering expert insights.

If you’re after a relaxing, leisurely vacation with plenty of downtime, this might be a bit busy. But for those hungry to see a broad spectrum of Turkey’s eastern regions—without the stress of planning every detail—it’s a compelling option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 12 days, covering a wide spread of sites across Eastern Turkey.

Are flights included?
Yes, the tour package includes two domestic flights, which help reduce the travel time between distant sites and ensure smooth logistics.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all airport transfers, transportation, breakfasts, dinners, museum entrance fees, and the flights mentioned. Basically, most logistics are handled for you, so you mostly just enjoy the journey.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour is capped at a maximum of 8 travelers, making it intimate enough for personalized attention and a more flexible experience.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly geared towards children, the tour’s moderate physical activity and historical focus might suit older kids if they’re interested in history and comfortable on long rides. Always check with the provider if traveling with younger children.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked around 160 days in advance, so planning early is recommended to secure your spot.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. After that, the full amount is non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-structured, culturally immersive experience that takes you through some of Turkey’s most compelling sites, this 12-day tour from Trabzon offers a lot of bang for your buck. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and expert guidance makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to understand and appreciate Eastern Turkey’s complexity.

While the long drives might not suit everyone, the overall value, variety, and depth of the experience are likely to resonate with those who want to really get a feel for this lesser-visited part of Turkey. It’s especially recommended if you enjoy history, architecture, and stunning natural scenery—and if you prefer your travel organized so you can focus on enjoying each moment.

Happy planning, and if you decide to go, I hope you fall in love with the incredible stories and sights of Eastern Turkey just like many others have!