Home / Europe, Turkey Tours / Culture & Historical
9 day(s)
Private
1-40 people
easy
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey across 8 fascinating Turkish cities in just 9 days. This all-in-one program combines the rich history of Ankara, the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the lush green highlands of Trabzon, Ayder, and Uzungöl, and the cosmopolitan charm of Istanbul. Along the way, discover the Ottoman legacy in Bursa, and enjoy the natural wonders of Sapanca & Maşukiye. From the majestic Ataturk Mausoleum in Ankara to the dreamlike valleys of Cappadocia, from sipping tea in Black Sea villages to sailing on a magical Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, this itinerary blends culture, nature, and adventure. Perfect for travelers seeking variety, comfort, and authentic Turkish experiences, it’s the ultimate introduction to Türkiye’s beauty.
Duration
9 day(s)
Max Group Size
1-40 people
Tour Code
T8CTI
Departure Type
scheduled
Tour Category
Culture & Historical
Guiding Method
Fully guided
Operated In
Age Requirement
11 - 99

Ankara
10:00
Masukiye
In the afternoon, embark on a guided city tour of Ankara, the heart of modern Türkiye and a city where ancient heritage meets contemporary spirit:
· Walk among the ruins of the Temple of Augustus and admire the Julian Column, symbols of the Roman presence in Anatolia.
· Step into history at the Roman Baths, an open-air archaeological site reflecting daily life of ancient times.
· Enjoy panoramic views over the city from the historic Ankara Castle, a landmark standing proudly since medieval times.
· Conclude the tour with a moving visit to the Ataturk Mausoleum (Anıtkabir), resting place of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Türkiye.
In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. Overnight stay in Ankara
? Optional Experience – Hot Air Balloon Ride
Begin your day at sunrise with an unforgettable Hot Air Balloon flight (optional, pre-booking required). Float silently above the valleys and fairy chimneys, watching the first light of day transform Cappadocia into a golden dreamscape — a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tour Highlights:
· Pasabag (Monk’s Valley): Walk among giant fairy chimneys with twin and triple rock caps, once home to hermit monks seeking solitude.
· Devrent (Imagination Valley): Discover a natural rock gallery where centuries of wind and rain have shaped stones into animals, mythological figures, and whimsical shapes.
· Avanos Village: Explore this charming riverside town famous for its pottery tradition dating back to Hittite times — watch local artisans at work and perhaps try your hand at the wheel.
· Underground City (Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu): Venture deep underground into a labyrinth of tunnels, kitchens, chapels, and storage rooms. These incredible subterranean settlements once sheltered entire communities from invaders.
In the evening, return to Ankara for dinner and rest. Overnight stay in Ankara
Tour Highlights:
· Lake Sera Gölü: Take a leisurely stroll by this tranquil lake, framed by forested hills — a perfect spot for photos and fresh mountain air.
· Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum: Admire one of the finest Byzantine-era churches in Anatolia, richly decorated with remarkable frescoes and mosaics.
· Ataturk Mansion: Step inside the elegant villa presented to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, beautifully set among flower gardens and filled with historical memorabilia.
· Old City & Bazaar: Wander through the lively bazaars and cobbled streets of Trabzon, where you’ll find spices, dried teas, silverware, and a taste of authentic Black Sea life.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight stay in Trabzon.
Tour Highlights:
· Ayder Waterfalls: Marvel at cascading streams tumbling down forested slopes, creating postcard-perfect scenery at every turn.
· Tea Plantations & Wooden Houses: Visit lush tea fields and traditional Black Sea wooden homes, experiencing the simple charm of highland village life.
· Adventure on the Fırtına River: For thrill-seekers, optional activities include rafting through rushing mountain waters or trying a zipline ride across the valley for an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Return to Trabzon in the evening. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight stay in Trabzon
Tour Highlights:
· Sürmene Knife Workshop: Visit the town of Sürmene, renowned for its hand-forged knives. Watch local artisans demonstrate this centuries-old craft and see why these blades are prized across Türkiye.
· Local Tea Factory: Step inside a working tea factory to learn how Black Sea tea is grown, harvested, and processed — and enjoy a tasting of the region’s freshest brews.
· Uzungöl Lake: Take in the stunning beauty of the lake surrounded by towering peaks and waterfalls. Stroll along the shores, capture postcard-worthy photos, and soak up the tranquility.
· Free Time: Relax in cozy cafés overlooking the water, breathe the crisp mountain air, or enjoy a gentle walk through the lakeside paths.
Return to Trabzon in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay in Trabzon.
Evening Highlight:
· Embark on a magical Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, sailing between two continents — Europe and Asia.
· Savor a delicious Turkish dinner while admiring illuminated palaces, bridges, and waterfront mansions.
· Experience a vibrant cultural show on board, featuring folk dances, whirling dervishes, and traditional belly dance performances that bring the spirit of Türkiye to life.
After the cruise, return to your hotel. Overnight stay in Istanbul.
Tour Highlights:
· Historical Plane Tree (İnkaya Çınarı): Stand beneath the shade of this legendary tree, more than 600 years old, a living monument of Bursa’s past.
· Uludağ Mountain: Take the scenic cable car ride up the slopes of Uludağ, one of Türkiye’s most famous peaks. In winter, enjoy snow-covered landscapes and optional skiing activities; in summer, breathe the fresh alpine air and admire panoramic views.
· Silk Bazaar & Local Tastes: Explore Bursa’s traditional Silk Bazaar, once part of the Silk Road trade. Sample regional specialties such as Bursa honey and sweet chestnut delights (kestane şekeri).
In the evening, return to Istanbul. Dinner and overnight stay in Istanbul.
Tour Highlights:
· Sapanca Lake: Stroll along the peaceful lakeshore, enjoy the stunning reflections of the surrounding hills, and take in the fresh air of this tranquil setting.
· Maşukiye Village: Experience the charm of this picturesque village, famous for its waterfalls, wooden houses, and lush green landscapes.
· Optional Adventures: For those seeking excitement, try an ATV safari, glide across the valley on a zipline, or enjoy a relaxing horse ride through the forest.
Return to Istanbul in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay in Istanbul
At the scheduled time, meet your driver for a private transfer to Istanbul Airport for your international flight home.
2 nights in Ankara – Alya Boutique Hotel or smiller
3 nights in Trabzon – Sky Hill Hotel or smiller
3 nights in Istanbul – Farina Hotel By Cigno or smiller
Professional English-speaking licensed guides
8 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast & dinner
All airport & intercity transfers in private vehicles
Entrance fees to museums & attractions per itinerary
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with cultural shows (with soft drinks)
Uludağ Mountain cable car tickets
International flights
Domestic flights (Ankara → Trabzon, Trabzon → Istanbul)
Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia (optional, pre-booking recommended)
Lunches & beverages
Tips for guide & driver
Travel insurance
Exclusions
Copyright © 2026 All Rights Reserved