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Affordable Travel Vacations

 

Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Tour, Escorted tour

Istanbul, Turkey to Dalaman, Turkey

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Discover the wonders of Turkey, a country boasting some of the most diverse and rich cultural heritage sites in the world. Sail between Asia and Europe in Istanbul and marvel at the Ottoman royal collections of the Topkapi Palace. Take a flight to Cappadocia to hike the moon-like valleys and go deep down to underground cities, while exploring the hidden rock-hewn churches of the Byzantine monks. From walking on the Lycian Way to swimming in the ancient city of Simena, this 12-day trip blends the very best of Turkey.

Highlights:
  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Topkapi Palace in Istanbul and Göreme Open Air Museum in Cappadocia
  • Marvel at the beauty of the river canyon at Ihlara, the 16th-century tiles in Istanbul, and the largest intact amphitheater of Asia Minor at Aspendos
  • Hike where Alexander the Great resided in the ancient city of Phaselis, swim among the ruins of the sunken city Simena, and enjoy every bit of changing colors in the Mediterranean Sea

Important Trip Details:
Easy to moderate hikes on 5 days of the itinerary. Hikes are on easy terrain with good trails and range from 2 – 6 miles. In the cities there is ample walking for sightseeing.

Minimum Age: 14

Interests
  • Adventure and Active
  • Educational and Learning
  • Local Experiences
11 Nights Starting At

CALL

May 03, 2025 through May 14, 2025
Book by:
April 29, 2025 7:00 PM
Internal Airfare not included
Itinerary Overview
Day 3
Eminonu Heritage Walk & Private Bosphorus Boat Tour
Day 5
Visit the Greek-Orthodox Village of Sinasos & Hike to Gorgoli Valley
Day 6
Kaymakli Underground City & Ihlara Valley Hike to Selime Monastery
Day 9
Drive to Kas via the Ancient Cities of Phaselis & Myra
Day 10
Hike from Phellos to Antiphellos
Day 12
Depart from Dalaman
Loading Itinerary Content...
Dates & prices
Additional
Offers
Starting From Additional Details
11 Nights from CALL
Internal Airfare not included
April 29, 2025 7:00 PM
11 Nights from CALL
Internal Airfare not included
April 08, 2025 7:00 PM
11 Nights from CALL
Internal Airfare not included
September 09, 2025 7:00 PM
11 Nights from CALL
Internal Airfare not included
October 07, 2025 7:00 PM
Additional
Offers




Accommodations
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Day: 1, duration: 3
Bank Hotel

The boutique Bank Hotel boasts stunning views of old Istanbul and is ideally located in the prominent Karakoy neighborhood. Rooms are beautifully designed with warm, organic colors, and come with parquet floors, high-end bath products, Wi-Fi, bathrobes, slippers, and much more. Enjoy the hotel's sophisticated design, rooftop restaurant, Turkish hammam, fitness center, sauna, and steam rooms.

Day: 4, duration: 3
Gul Konaklari Sinasos Hotel

Gul Konaklari Sinasos is comprised of two beautifully restored, late-19th-century Greek mansions and is the perfect place to rest after visiting Cappadocia. Set in the historically rich village of Sinasos (today known as Mustafapasa), the stone mansions offer guestrooms that beautifully blend traditional decorative elements with modern amenities. Amenities include a winery, a tandoori kitchen, a rose garden, a fireplace lounge, and a terrace and courtyard area.

Day: 7, duration: 2
Akra Hotel

The Akra Hotel boasts an enviable seaside location on the Mediterranean. Sleekly designed guestrooms offer city or water views and modern amenities, such as a wide balcony, wide-screen television, mini bar, and high-speed Wi-Fi. There is a full-service spa on-site, with a variety of innovative body treatments, Turkish and steam baths, and saunas. Several dining options are available, including healthful cuisine at Panora, local and international flavors at Asmani, and quick bites at Pablito Bistro.

Day: 9, duration: 3
Suna Sun Hotel
Perched on a rocky outcrop at the edge of the sea, Suna Sun Hotel is a delightful coastal getaway. Comfortable and stylish guest rooms overlook the ocean and are surrounded by lush gardens. Dine on international and Mediterranean cuisine crafted with organic produce from the hotel's own farm. Relax in the spa's sauna, mini-hammam, jacuzzi, and massage rooms. There is a heated outdoor pool and sunbeds at the ocean's edge to enjoy as well.
Guides
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Volkan Akoluk
Volkan has been a professional guide showing travelers the wonders of Turkey since 1999. He chairs an NGO, a professional association of tour guides who advocate for better conservation of the cultural and natural heritage of Turkey. He spent three years teaching university students about guiding topics. He is fascinated by mythology, history of religions, and archaeology and has a wealth of knowledge on these topics. He looks forward to sharing Turkey with you!





Ridvan Uyanik
Ridvan (Rudy) has been leading groups of travelers, including alumni associations such as Smithsonian and Cal Berkeley, since 2002. He was born in Manisa, located in western Turkey but was inspired to move to Mersin so he could study professional tour guiding and begin his career. He enjoys playing the saz, a stringed Turkish folk music instrument, studying archaeology and fine arts. He enjoys helping travelers understand his country’s traditions, history, and present.





Inclusions/Exclusions
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage

Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
What To Expect
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Reason #01

MT Sobek has been creating immersive cultural adventures for more than 50 years and we've been exploring Turkey for decades!

Reason #02

Join our local expert hiking guides to traverse hidden valleys and ancient cities and experience Turkey's splendid highlights in 12 days.

Reason #03

This trip blends cultural touring of UNESCO-listed wonders in Cappadocia and Istanbul with off-the-beaten track explorations of the ancient city of Phaselis and sunken city Simena.

Activities

Easy to moderate hikes and cultural tours that take in the region's stunning land- and seascapes, including Cappadocia.

Lodging

Comfortable historical and modern seaside hotels, perfectly located for your adventure.

Climate

The coastal areas of Turkey generally have a mild Mediterranean climate. The weather in Antalya is mild and somewhat rainy in winter, hot and humid in the summer. Cappadocia is at about 3,600 feet above sea level, with average temperatures between 72-84°F in July and August.

Who will meet me on arrival?

Arrive any time on Day 1 and meet an MT Sobek representative at Istanbul airport for a transfer to the hotel.

Is the water safe to drink in Turkey?

Although the water is considered safe, most people don't drink tap water in Turkey. We will provide clean, safe-to-drink water to our guests each day.

What can I expect to eat in Turkey?

Turkey's cuisine is vibrant, colorful and flavorful! There is an abundance of healthy and delicious options in Turkey, including soups, stews, assorted kebabs, mountains of bread, kofte (meatballs), pide (Turkish pizza), olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, salads, lentils, rice, yogurt soups, and more.

Is Turkey an Islamic country?

Islam is the largest religion in Turkey. Turkey is also a secular country, and there is freedom of religion. The Turkish Government recognizes three minority religious communities: Greek Orthodox Christians, Armenian Apostolic Christians and Jews.

Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?

Yes, U.S. citizens can obtain an e-Visa for Turkey is you are travelling for less than 90 days.

What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Day: 1, duration: 3
Bank Hotel

The boutique Bank Hotel boasts stunning views of old Istanbul and is ideally located in the prominent Karakoy neighborhood. Rooms are beautifully designed with warm, organic colors, and come with parquet floors, high-end bath products, Wi-Fi, bathrobes, slippers, and much more. Enjoy the hotel's sophisticated design, rooftop restaurant, Turkish hammam, fitness center, sauna, and steam rooms.

Day: 4, duration: 3
Gul Konaklari Sinasos Hotel

Gul Konaklari Sinasos is comprised of two beautifully restored, late-19th-century Greek mansions and is the perfect place to rest after visiting Cappadocia. Set in the historically rich village of Sinasos (today known as Mustafapasa), the stone mansions offer guestrooms that beautifully blend traditional decorative elements with modern amenities. Amenities include a winery, a tandoori kitchen, a rose garden, a fireplace lounge, and a terrace and courtyard area.

Day: 7, duration: 2
Akra Hotel

The Akra Hotel boasts an enviable seaside location on the Mediterranean. Sleekly designed guestrooms offer city or water views and modern amenities, such as a wide balcony, wide-screen television, mini bar, and high-speed Wi-Fi. There is a full-service spa on-site, with a variety of innovative body treatments, Turkish and steam baths, and saunas. Several dining options are available, including healthful cuisine at Panora, local and international flavors at Asmani, and quick bites at Pablito Bistro.

Day: 9, duration: 3
Suna Sun Hotel
Perched on a rocky outcrop at the edge of the sea, Suna Sun Hotel is a delightful coastal getaway. Comfortable and stylish guest rooms overlook the ocean and are surrounded by lush gardens. Dine on international and Mediterranean cuisine crafted with organic produce from the hotel's own farm. Relax in the spa's sauna, mini-hammam, jacuzzi, and massage rooms. There is a heated outdoor pool and sunbeds at the ocean's edge to enjoy as well.
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Volkan Akoluk
Volkan has been a professional guide showing travelers the wonders of Turkey since 1999. He chairs an NGO, a professional association of tour guides who advocate for better conservation of the cultural and natural heritage of Turkey. He spent three years teaching university students about guiding topics. He is fascinated by mythology, history of religions, and archaeology and has a wealth of knowledge on these topics. He looks forward to sharing Turkey with you!





Ridvan Uyanik
Ridvan (Rudy) has been leading groups of travelers, including alumni associations such as Smithsonian and Cal Berkeley, since 2002. He was born in Manisa, located in western Turkey but was inspired to move to Mersin so he could study professional tour guiding and begin his career. He enjoys playing the saz, a stringed Turkish folk music instrument, studying archaeology and fine arts. He enjoys helping travelers understand his country’s traditions, history, and present.





MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage

Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
MT Sobek: Turkey Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Coast Cultural Discovery

Reason #01

MT Sobek has been creating immersive cultural adventures for more than 50 years and we've been exploring Turkey for decades!

Reason #02

Join our local expert hiking guides to traverse hidden valleys and ancient cities and experience Turkey's splendid highlights in 12 days.

Reason #03

This trip blends cultural touring of UNESCO-listed wonders in Cappadocia and Istanbul with off-the-beaten track explorations of the ancient city of Phaselis and sunken city Simena.

Activities

Easy to moderate hikes and cultural tours that take in the region's stunning land- and seascapes, including Cappadocia.

Lodging

Comfortable historical and modern seaside hotels, perfectly located for your adventure.

Climate

The coastal areas of Turkey generally have a mild Mediterranean climate. The weather in Antalya is mild and somewhat rainy in winter, hot and humid in the summer. Cappadocia is at about 3,600 feet above sea level, with average temperatures between 72-84°F in July and August.

Who will meet me on arrival?

Arrive any time on Day 1 and meet an MT Sobek representative at Istanbul airport for a transfer to the hotel.

Is the water safe to drink in Turkey?

Although the water is considered safe, most people don't drink tap water in Turkey. We will provide clean, safe-to-drink water to our guests each day.

What can I expect to eat in Turkey?

Turkey's cuisine is vibrant, colorful and flavorful! There is an abundance of healthy and delicious options in Turkey, including soups, stews, assorted kebabs, mountains of bread, kofte (meatballs), pide (Turkish pizza), olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, salads, lentils, rice, yogurt soups, and more.

Is Turkey an Islamic country?

Islam is the largest religion in Turkey. Turkey is also a secular country, and there is freedom of religion. The Turkish Government recognizes three minority religious communities: Greek Orthodox Christians, Armenian Apostolic Christians and Jews.

Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?

Yes, U.S. citizens can obtain an e-Visa for Turkey is you are travelling for less than 90 days.

What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
About MT Sobek
MT Sobek logo

This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.

To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.

Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.

We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.

Read More

About MT Sobek

This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.

To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.

Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.

We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.

Read More

Prices are per-person based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted.