Eastern Turkey 12-Day Sightseeing Tour from Trabzon

Experience the Wonders of Eastern Turkey on a 12-Day Guided Tour from Trabzon

Setting out on a 12-day journey through Eastern Turkey offers a chance to explore a region full of contrasts—climate zones, civilizations, and landscapes that span from ancient ruins to breathtaking natural scenery. This tour, offered by ALKANS TOUR, combines cultural highlights, natural wonders, and historical sites, all while taking the stress out of planning with included flights, accommodations, and meals.

What truly stands out about this trip is the depth of experience it offers, with expert guides who bring the sites to life. You’ll enjoy not just sightseeing but also authentic local food, meaningful interactions, and a good dose of adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of driving—something to consider if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace. Nevertheless, for those eager to see a lesser-known part of Turkey with a knowledgeable guide, this is a fantastic option.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love history, culture, and scenic landscapes, and who are comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience without the hassle of logistics.

Key Points

• In-Depth Itinerary: Visits to iconic sites like Sumela Monastery, Mount Ararat, and Gobekli Tepe.
• Expert Guides: Local guides with extensive knowledge that enrich your understanding of the region.
• Comfort and Convenience: All transportation, most meals, and entrance fees included for a hassle-free experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to taste regional food, explore ancient ruins, and enjoy natural scenery.
• Balanced Pace: Well-organized days with a mix of sightseeing and leisure, albeit with some long drives.
• Limited Group Size: Tours are capped at 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

A Deep Dive into the 12-Day Eastern Turkey Tour

First Impressions and Overall Value

From the get-go, this tour appears to be a well-rounded package, balancing culture, history, and stunning vistas. Priced at $3,850 per person, it may seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusion of flights, meals, entrance fees, and a private guide, it offers good value—especially for those craving an all-in-one experience without the logistical headaches of planning independently.

Several reviewers highlight that they found the tour to be “well thought out and balanced,” offering a rundown of Eastern Turkey’s highlights. The presence of a knowledgeable guide, Sabahattin, was often praised for his expertise and friendly approach. One reviewer shared, “His passion and insight made every site come alive,” which speaks volumes about the quality of guiding.

Day 1: From Trabzon to Sumela Monastery

Starting in Trabzon, the tour kicks off with a visit to the Hagia Sophia Museum, an important Byzantine church that offers a glimpse into the region’s complex religious past. The frescoes here are noted as being of particular significance, with some reviewers calling the site “spectacular.”

Next, the highlight is the Sumela Monastery, perched on a cliffside in Altindere National Park. The setting alone makes it worth the trip—imposing, dramatic, and steeped in history dating back to the 4th century. Visitors often mention the “remarkable location” and the monastery’s seven stories hanging from the cliff. One traveler noted, “The view from Sumela is breathtaking, and walking through the ancient halls makes you feel like you’ve stepped into history.”

The day concludes with a trip to Altindere Vadisi National Park, giving a taste of the region’s natural beauty and a chance to stretch your legs after a day of travel.

Day 2: From Trabzon to Erzurum via Artvin

The journey continues with stops at the Ishan Church, and the drive through the Coruh Valley—famous for its wild landscapes and Georgian castles. The Ruins of Ishan are fascinating, especially for history buffs, with some reviewers noting the site’s origins as both Armenian and Georgian bishoprics.

The highlight here is the Tortum Waterfall, Turkey’s tallest waterfall. Visitors often mention how close they can get to the falls—walking down to the bottom is a memorable experience. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic and photos.

Arriving in Erzurum, the city’s central sites like the Yakutiye Medresesi showcase Ottoman architecture and offer a glimpse into the region’s scholarly past. Reviewers appreciated strolling around the medrese and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Day 3: Exploring Erzurum and Ani Ruins

The day starts with sightseeing in Erzurum, including the Great Mosque and Ulu Cami, giving you a chance to observe local life and historical architecture. Several travelers commented on the lively bazaars and the chance to see how locals go about their day.

The afternoon is spent exploring Ani Ruins, once a thriving medieval Armenian city. The remains of churches, the cathedral, and the defensive walls are remarkably well-preserved, offering a sense of how grand this city must have been. One reviewer described Ani as “a city that rivals any in Europe in terms of size and splendor,” with fresco remnants still visible despite centuries of exposure—a testament to its historical importance.

Day 4-6: Mount Ararat, Van, and Mount Nemrut

The tour’s natural highlights include Mount Ararat, which you’ll skirt around, and the Ishak Pasha Palace, a fusion of architectural styles that reflect the diverse influences in the region. The palace’s grandeur even in ruins leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Next, you’ll visit Van Castle and the Urartian site of Cavustepe, both offering a window into ancient civilizations. The Akdamar Island visit allows you to see the beautifully restored 10th-century Armenian church, decorated with unique reliefs and motifs—perfect for architecture buffs.

The climb to Mount Nemrut is a highlight, with its giant statues and tumulus of Antiochus. Several reviews mention that watching the sunset there is unforgettable, with some describing it as a “highlight of the trip.” The site’s influence on travelers is evident; one said, “The statues are colossal, and the views are breathtaking,” adding that the experience of being at the summit during sunset is well worth the effort.

Days 7-8: Cross into Mesopotamia and South-eastern Turkey

Moving toward Hasankeyf and Mardin, you’ll explore ancient caves, medieval ruins, and stunning architecture. Reviewers emphasize the mystique of Hasankeyf, with its caves and the fortress on the Tigris, while Mardin’s stone buildings and old town charm make it feel like an open-air museum.

In Diyarbakir, the city walls and Grand Mosque showcase the region’s Islamic history. Visitors mention the impressive breadth of the city walls—”second only to China’s Great Wall” in length—and the lively atmosphere of the bustling bazaars.

Days 9-11: The Ancient Kingdoms and Gobekli Tepe

The journey up to Mount Nemrut during sunrise remains a highlight, with several reviewing it as a “must-see.” The colossal statues and the tumulus of Antiochus evoke a sense of wonder, and many mention the panoramic views from the summit as spectacular.

A special highlight is Gobekli Tepe, one of the most significant archaeological sites in recent years, dating back 11,000-13,000 years. We loved the way the ongoing excavations reveal how early humans might have practiced religion and built monumental structures long before other known sites like Stonehenge. “It’s like walking into the dawn of civilization,” one reviewer exclaimed.

The visit to Sanliurfa completes the experience with the Holy Pools of Abraham and the local bazaar, giving a sense of daily life in this ancient city.

Days 12: Farewell in Gaziantep

The final day involves exploring the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, which houses stunning ancient mosaics from the submerged city of Zeugma. Travelers appreciated the chance to see these exquisite artworks, describing them as “a testament to the artistry of ancient craftsmen.” Afterwards, you can enjoy the vibrant old town, famous for its spicy cuisine.

The tour concludes with transport to Gaziantep Airport, making it easy to connect to your onward journey.

Practical Considerations and Review Highlights

Transportation and Group Size
The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a maximum of 8 travelers—ideal for those who value personalized attention but expect some long drives between sites. Multiple reviews mention that the drives are not too lengthy, yet be prepared for several hours on the road, especially when traveling between distant sites like Mount Nemrut and Gobekli Tepe.

Guides and Local Knowledge
The guides—like Sabahattin and Cemil—are frequently praised for their depth of knowledge and friendly manner. Reviewers note that guides are skilled at explaining complex histories and making the sites engaging. Sabahattin, in particular, is described as passionate and eager to tailor the experience, even in private tours that some guests received due to last-minute cancellations.

Meals and Entrance Fees
Most meals, including breakfast and dinner, are included, allowing you to enjoy regional dishes without extra planning. The food is often highlighted as a notable part of the trip—think spicy kebabs, regional rice dishes, and local desserts. Entrance fees to major sites are also covered, removing surprises and making budgeting easier.

Cost and Value
At $3,850 per person, the price might seem high, but considering the scope, inclusions, and expert guidance, many consider it a worthwhile investment. The convenience of flights, hotel stays, and the curated itinerary means travelers can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Reviewer Insights
Multiple reviews commend the tour for its well-organized itinerary and the knowledgeable guides who make history accessible and fun. One reviewer summed it up: “This is a trip for anyone who wants a comprehensive, authentic look at Eastern Turkey without the hassle of planning everything independently.”

Potential Drawbacks
The main consideration is the amount of time spent in transit. Some guests mention long drives and the need for moderate physical fitness, especially when climbing sites like Nemrut or navigating uneven terrain at archaeological sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 12-day adventure is perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, and those craving authentic experiences in Turkey’s lesser-known eastern regions. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours, are comfortable with some long drives, and want a comprehensive look at the area’s ancient sites, natural wonders, and diverse cultures. Foodies will enjoy regional specialties, and those with a keen interest in archaeology or religious history will find this trip particularly rewarding.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for someone with limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking around sites like Ani and Gobekli Tepe, most of the itinerary is accessible with some moderate physical activity. However, certain sites with uneven terrain may pose challenges, so travelers should be prepared for some walking.

Are flights included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour covers two domestic flights, which helps streamline travel between distant regions and saves time.

What meals are included?
Breakfasts are provided every day, with dinners also included on most nights, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

Can I expect to have free time?
The itinerary is quite packed, but many reviewers mention that there are opportunities to explore markets or relax in the evenings. The tour is designed for immersive sightseeing rather than leisure.

Is the group size small?
Yes, tours are limited to 8 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with guides.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start. After that, cancellations are not refunded.

Who is the tour provider?
ALANS TOUR, with contact at +905303492793 and [email protected], is the tour operator behind this experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to explore a Turkey that few travelers see, this 12-day guided tour offers exceptional value. From the ancient ruins of Ani to the surreal statues of Mount Nemrut, every day offers a new chapter in a region steeped in history and natural beauty. The guides’ expertise and the thoughtfully curated itinerary help make Eastern Turkey accessible and unforgettable.

It’s an especially good choice for those who love history, archaeology, and authentic regional cuisine—and who don’t mind a bit of travel time in between. With the comfort of all logistics handled and a small group setting, it’s a deep dive into one of Turkey’s most fascinating corners.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, this tour promises a memorable adventure filled with stunning sights, engaging stories, and plenty of good food. Just be ready for some long drives, and you’ll come away with a true appreciation for the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures.