Best of Turkey – 10 Days

Traveling through Turkey in just 10 days sounds ambitious, but this guided tour from Tour Altinkum Travel aims to do just that—covering the country’s most captivating sights with a blend of history, natural wonders, and local culture. With a small group capped at only 12 participants, it promises an intimate experience, guided commentary, and stress-free logistics like hotels, flights, and transfers included in the price of $1,687 per person.

What immediately catches the eye is how well-organized this adventure appears—reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the seamless flow between diverse locations, and the opportunity to see both iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems. We particularly appreciate the mix of structured sightseeing and free time, which allows for personalized explorations.

A possible consideration is that, despite the all-inclusive nature, some sites require an extra fee for entry. Plus, the pace is quite full, so travelers should be prepared for long days. This tour suits those with a curiosity for history, stunning scenery, and culture looking for a balanced, hassle-free way to see Turkey’s top highlights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary that balances must-see landmarks with unique local experiences.
• Expert guides with deep knowledge who enhance the understanding of each site.
• All-inclusive package covers hotels, domestic flights, transfers, and many meals—offering great value.
• Small group size ensures an intimate, engaging experience.
• Diverse sights from Istanbul’s historic mosques to Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and Pamukkale’s thermal terraces.
• Well-organized logistics with pre-paid skip-the-line tickets and smooth transitions.

Exploring Istanbul: The First Impressions

Your journey begins with a warm greeting at Istanbul Airport, followed by smooth transfers to your hotel. The city itself is the perfect opener—layered with history, vibrant markets, and iconic architecture. The guided tours of Sultanahmet include Istanbul’s most treasured landmarks: the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar.

From the start, guides like Kerem and others prove their worth—sharing insights that bring these historic sites alive. Reviewers highlight that the guides are extremely knowledgeable, often staying with the group from start to finish, and making sure everyone is comfortable. The Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern** are particularly memorable, with one reviewer noting how the cistern’s 336 columns create an almost mystical atmosphere.

The experience of wandering the bustling Grand Bazaar is an eye-opener—over 4000 shops, 18 entrances, and an endless variety of textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Reviewers have enjoyed browsing here, with some recommending keeping track of your belongings due to the busy environment.

Day 2 & 3: From Byzantine Marvels to Bosphorus Beauty

The next day features a half-day tour of the Spice Market and a scenic Bosphorus cruise. The Spice Bazaar fills the air with fragrant scents of herbs, saffron, and spices—this sensory overload is a highlight, especially if you’re into tasting and shopping for authentic Turkish flavors.

The Bosphorus cruise offers unparalleled views of Istanbul’s waterfront palaces, mosques, and fortresses. Reviewers mention how the boat ride provides a leisurely way to see the city’s European and Asian sides, with plenty of photo opportunities. The boat tour is included, giving an authentic experience of how locals and visitors alike enjoy Istanbul’s waterways.

Post-tour, travelers fly from Istanbul to Izmir, with airport transfers included, making the transition between cities seamless. The journey continues with a visit to Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House)—a place of quiet reflection that many find meaningful—and then the legendary Ephesus ruins. Walking among the well-preserved ancient streets, the Library of Celsus, and the Great Theatre feels like stepping into history. Reviewers emphasize how Ephesus’s scale and preservation make it uniquely immersive.

Day 4 & 5: Pamukkale’s Thermal Terraces and Antalya’s Coastal Charm

The journey takes travelers to Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its thermal terraces formed by calcium-rich mineral waters. You’ll love walking barefoot on these “cotton castle” pools—some reviewers say it’s like stepping into a natural spa. The nearby ancient city of Hierapolis adds a layer of historical curiosity, with Roman ruins and the Sacred Pool, where thermal waters ripple over the remnants of the past.

From there, the tour heads to Antalya, a city with a lively old town, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe. Travelers rave about the Tunektepe cable car ride, where you’ll ascend to panoramic views of the coastline and mountains—perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. The Upper Duden Waterfalls offer a peaceful escape, with lush greenery and the soothing sound of falling water.

In Kaleici, Antalya’s old town, you’ll find narrow stone streets, historic city walls, and landmarks like Hadrianus Gate and the Clock Tower. Reviewers appreciate the free time here to explore boutiques or simply enjoy Turkish tea in a cozy café.

Days 6 & 7: Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys and Underground Cities

Traveling from Antalya to Cappadocia involves a scenic drive and an optional land upgrade—where you can choose to fly instead of drive, adding a bit of flexibility. Once in Cappadocia, the landscape transforms into a surreal wonderland of rock formations, fairy chimneys, and cave dwellings.

Highlights include the Rose and Red Valleys, especially stunning at sunset, and the Pigeon Valley, famed for its carved dovecotes. Reviewers love the views here, describing the colors as “spectacular” and the terrain as “otherworldly.”

A visit to Kaymakli Underground City reveals a labyrinth of tunnels, rooms, and tunnels once used as refuges by early Christians. Guides explain that these settlements could shelter 15,000 people and were full of past life essentials—food storage, churches, bedrooms—all carved from volcanic rock.

The Uchisar Castle offers sweeping vistas of the region, with its fortress-shaped rocks providing a perfect vantage point.

Days 8 & 9: More Cappadocia & Return to Istanbul

The second full day in Cappadocia includes stops at Devrent Valley, where animal-shaped rocks and quirky formations spark the imagination, and Goreme Open-Air Museum, with its stunning frescoed churches cut into the rocks. Reviewers note how the museum’s colorful frescoes and the rock-cut church architecture make it a highlight.

A stop at Avanos, famous for pottery-making, adds a hands-on experience, where visitors can try their hand at traditional ceramics. The panoramic Goreme Viewpoint and Uchisar Castle provide breathtaking photo moments.

Later, a domestic flight takes travelers back to Istanbul, concluding the adventure with a final transfer to the hotel.

The Value and Experience

What sets this tour apart is how it combines structured sightseeing with the convenience of all-in-one planning. With pre-paid entry tickets, transportation, hotel stays, and flights included, you can focus on enjoying the experience rather than stressing over logistics.

Reviewers highlight the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, describing them as crucial to the trip’s success. One reviewer, Ronita Sinha, called it “one of the best tours we’ve taken,” appreciating the relaxed pace and depth of historical insights.

While the itinerary is packed, the group size of 12 ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction. The meals included also add value, allowing you to sample local cuisines without extra planning.

The tour’s price reflects its comprehensive nature, but many reviewers think it offers good value for money, especially considering the flights, accommodations, and skip-the-line tickets.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 10-day guided adventure suits travelers eager to see Turkey’s highlights without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It’s ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who appreciate comfortable transfers and knowledgeable guides. The small group setting means you’ll get personalized attention, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a more intimate experience.

However, be prepared for long days and a full schedule. If you prefer a slower pace or more free time, this might feel a bit rushed. But if your goal is to maximize sights and learn about Turkey’s diverse regions in a short period, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the physical demands of walking through ancient sites and uneven terrain, especially at places like Ephesus and Cappadocia.

Are flights included in the package?
Yes, the tour includes two domestic flights—one from Istanbul to Izmir and another from Kayseri back to Istanbul.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 12 travelers, which fosters a more personal and flexible atmosphere.

Are entrance fees to sites included?
Entry tickets are pre-paid and skip-the-line, but the cost is paid to guides in cash—either in Lira, USD, or Euro.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the itinerary is fixed, the small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you can ask questions and possibly enjoy extra insights or optional stops.

What’s the accommodation like?
The trip includes 3 nights in Istanbul, 2 in Kusadasi, 2 in Cappadocia, and 2 in Antalya. Hotels are centrally located, comfortable, and include breakfast.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, especially in old towns like Kaleici and Avanos, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace or shop for souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Turkey tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances must-see sights with cultural authenticity. The inclusion of hotel stays, flights, and skip-the-line tickets makes it a practical choice for travelers who want a well-organized, hassle-free adventure.

The guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach, which enhances the storytelling at each stop. The varied landscapes—from Istanbul’s historic splendors to Cappadocia’s otherworldly views—ensure you leave with a diverse collection of memories.

While the schedule is busy, it’s perfect for those eager to see as much as possible in a limited time, especially if you value comfort, expert guidance, and a good mix of historical sites and natural wonders. This tour is particularly suitable for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Turkey’s highlights in a reliable, enjoyable package.

Whether you’re passionate about history, love scenic landscapes, or just want a smooth, guided experience, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers excellent value and a chance to truly absorb Turkey’s vibrant culture and stunning sights.