Turkey: A Tapestry of Ancient Wonders and the Land of Roses

Location: Asia
Duration: 12 Days
Price: From $6,995
Activity Level: Moderate

Turkey: A Tapestry of Ancient Wonders and the Land of Roses

Location: Asia
Duration: 12 Days
Price: From $6,995
Activity Level: Moderate

Overview

Explore the architectural splendor of Istanbul and the natural beauty of the Turkish countryside in this 12-day adventure with AdventureWomen! From Istanbul to Ephesus and the villages in between, experience the life and culture of modern and ancient Turkey. Istanbul, a cultural and ethnic melting pot at the crossroads of East and West, is steeped in historical legends that reach back thousands of years. The soaring tips of minarets define the city skyline while below, bustling marketplaces, ancient monuments, and non-stop water traffic are part of Istanbul’s modern charm. A trip highlight is the unique opportunity to take part in the annual rose petal harvest in Isparta, aptly named “The Land of the Roses”, which accounts for 65% of the country’s annual rose production.

Main Attractions

Istanbul’s Historical Marvels

Experience Istanbul, where history comes alive. Wander through the majestic Hagia Sophia, marvel at the intricate designs of the Blue Mosque, and explore the bustling Grand Bazaar. Each site offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past and vibrant culture.

Private Cruise

Wonder at the magic of the Bosphorus Strait on a private cruise. Enjoy the stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline, dotted with minarets and palaces. As you sail, indulge in a seaside dining experience, savoring delicious Turkish cuisine while the gentle waves lap against the boat.

Ephesus Exploration

Step into the ancient world with a visit to Ephesus. Walk through the well-preserved ruins of this once-thriving city, where history echoes in every corner. From the grand Library of Celsus to the impressive Great Theatre, Ephesus offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the grandeur of ancient civilizations.

Map of Turkey showing flight paths, road routes, and key locations including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Pamukkale. Includes an inset of airline symbol, a car symbol, and a distance scale.
Two people smiling and posing inside an ornate, historic room with decorative patterns, high ceilings, and large windows.
Ornate interior arches and domes of a decorated mosque ceiling, featuring intricate patterns and geometric designs in muted colors.
A person in a pink shirt stands smiling, giving a thumbs-up in front of a historic mosque with domes and arches.
Three people smiling in front of an ornate historic building with tall columns and intricate carvings.
Two people joyfully toss pink petals in the air, standing in front of a large heart-shaped display filled with roses.
Two people smiling and posing inside an ornate, historic room with decorative patterns, high ceilings, and large windows.
Ornate interior arches and domes of a decorated mosque ceiling, featuring intricate patterns and geometric designs in muted colors.
A person in a pink shirt stands smiling, giving a thumbs-up in front of a historic mosque with domes and arches.
Three people smiling in front of an ornate historic building with tall columns and intricate carvings.
Two people joyfully toss pink petals in the air, standing in front of a large heart-shaped display filled with roses.

Itinerary

A group of people dining at a restaurant with wooden decor. Plates with food and drinks are on the table. Several people are smiling at the camera.

Welcome to Istanbul!

Arrive in Istanbul, Turkey (IST) by 1:00 PM today, where you’ll be met by your guide at the airport and transferred to your hotel. (There will be one group transfer provided to align with most common departures). Check into your hotel and relax before dinner tonight, where you’ll enjoy a lively welcome dinner at a local restaurant as you get to know your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and learn about why everyone is excited to explore Turkey

Meals dinner
A large mosque with multiple domes and minarets overlooks a cityscape and body of water, with autumn foliage and buildings in the foreground.

Istanbul Historical City Tour

Today, explore Istanbul on foot and stop for lunch along the way as you take in some of the ancient sites. Enter Topkapi Palace, administrative headquarters of Ottoman Sultans for 400 years. Then, see the Hippodrome, where you can still see the arched curving brick wall and the standing monuments. Finally, venture to the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar which was built in 1460 and is home to thousands of shops and workshops. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Ancient ruins of the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey, with stone columns, steps, and surrounding debris under a blue sky.

Journey to Ephesus

Today, head to the airport where you will board your flight to Izmir, the largest city on the Aegean Sea. Enjoy lunch in Selcuk as a group after arrival. Then, tour glorious Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Marble paved avenues, wonderfully preserved homes, temples, theaters, baths, markets, brothels, libraries, and gymnasiums bring us back to the splendor of the ancient world. Enjoy dinner as a group this evening.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
View of a hillside village with numerous white and red-roofed houses surrounded by green trees. A mosque with a minaret is visible among the houses.

Ismir Province

Begin your day with an authentic hands-on cooking workshop set in a beautiful garden kitchen near Kusadasi. Guided by an expert chef, you will learn the secrets of traditional Turkish cuisine and enjoy a delicious meal you’ve created. After lunch, visit ancient sites including the Temple of Artemis, which dates to the 4th century BC and an ancient cottage on the slopes of the mountains believed to be Mary’s last home. Walk along the stone-paved streets of Sirince Village, an abandoned settlement now occupied by Turks who continue the Greek tradition of wine production.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Terraced pools with turquoise water and white sediment formations at sunset, with a vast landscape in the background.

Marble Quarries in Aphrodisias and Whirling Dervishes

Drive this morning to explore Aphrodisias, named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, an ancient Hellenized city known for marble sculpture that today is an archeological site and a marble quarry. Enjoy an authentic Turkish lunch restaurant with a dancing parrot. Then, drive to Pamukkale, famous for its natural travertine pools, channels, and fascinating ruins with an optional Whirling Dervish performance in the early evening.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
People sitting and taking photos on ancient stone steps in a historic amphitheater with weathered arches under a partly cloudy sky.

Archeological Discovery in Cibrya

Drive to the ancient city of Cibyra today. Listen to an informative talk with a local assistant professor about excavations underway in the area as you try your hand at excavation under the watchful eye of local archeologists. Enjoy lunch as a group near the town of Golhisar. Next, head to Isparta, where you’ll check in at your hotel. In the evening, gather for a group dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A field of blooming pink roses under a clear sky, with green foliage surrounding the flowers.

Rose Harvest

Drive to Güneykent (or Ardıçlı) Village in the mountains, one of the many rose growing places in Isparta province. Learn the proper method to pick and handle the flowers from a local woman before trying your hand at harvesting roses. See the process first-hand at a local distiller and have the chance to buy rose products before lunch at a local restaurant. Then, pass through Isparta on your way to Golcuk, a volcanic lake where you’ll hike 2.5 miles around the lake. Join your fellow travelers for dinner at the hotel tonight

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Aerial view of a small peninsula with houses and greenery, surrounded by blue water and mountains in the background.

Traveling to Cappadocia

Today will be travel day to Cappadocia with several riveting stops along the way. Your first stop is at the beautiful freshwater lake of Egirdir. Next, stop in Konya, where you will visit the Mausoleum of the mystic Rumi, famous for founding the Order of the Whirling Dervishes. Then enjoy lunch as a group at a local restaurant. Reach the Sultanhani Caravanserai, one of the major medieval inns that sheltered caravans and travelers along the famous Silk Road trade route and stop in Agacli. Reach Urgup and enjoy dinner as a group upon arrival.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A group of nine people stand smiling in front of unique rock formations under a cloudy sky.

Trip to Goreme Outdoor Museum

Visit Devrent where you will explore the surroundings on foot and view naturally shaped statues. Next, explore the Goreme Open Air Museum, a collection of renowned churches and monasteries amidst the rocky landscape. Take in the beautiful frescoes and art displayed in the churches that are a part of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a delicious lunch in Red Valley before driving to Uchisar, a huge outcropping of tufa rock, used as a shelter and fortress in old times. Enjoy an afternoon hike through Red Valley, another captivating landscape dotted with hidden rock-carved churches. After the hike, make your way to the hotel and enjoy dinner as a group

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Two people smiling in a field with hot air balloons in the sky. They are wearing green jackets.

Underground Cities

Start your day with an optional early morning hot air balloon ride available for an additional fee.
Then, visit amazing stone architecture hidden beneath the ground among the underground cities. Next, journey to Soghanli Valley, where you can marvel at 11th- century rock-cut churches adorned with vibrant frescoes, as well as ancient refectories and dormitories carved into the stone. Enjoy lunch at a unique family-run restaurant located in an apple orchard and see some beautiful examples of Turkish pottery this afternoon before you head back to the hotel for dinner.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Exterior view of Hagia Sophia, featuring its grand dome and four minarets under a clear blue sky, surrounded by greenery.

Istanbul’s Historic Destinations

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll head to the airport for your morning flight back to Istanbul. Once you land, explore various architectural wonders, including Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and the Spice Bazaar. In the early evening, take a private boat trip along the Bosphorus, the natural strait forming the boundary between the Asian and European continents. Along the shores of the Bosphorus are Ottoman villas, old palaces, fortresses, and parks. Share your favorite moments of your trip during a celebratory farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Six people sit around a round table in a cozy cafe, clinking glasses and smiling. Coffee cups and a small tray are on the table. Wine bottles and posters decorate the background.

Depart Istanbul

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll transfer to the airport for your flight home. The group transfer will be provided when most guests depart (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at other times are available for purchase. Depart Istanbul, Turkey (IST).

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Ancient stone amphitheater with rows of seating, a central stage, and surrounding ruins under a clear sky.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

A grand mosque with multiple domes and minarets sits behind modern buildings and trees, reflected in a calm body of water under a partly cloudy sky.

Kalyon Hotel

Kalyon Hotel Istanbul, a charming four-star boutique hotel, offers an ideal location in the heart of Sultanahmet, Istanbul’s historic peninsula. Easily accessible from the city’s airports, the hotel is within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace. Set along the scenic shores of the Sea of Marmara, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and watch ships traverse the ancient maritime route that links the Mediterranean to the Black Sea.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, minibar, safe, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

A cozy stone room with arched ceilings, featuring a patterned rug, cushioned bench, two mirrors, and a small fireplace. Warm lighting illuminates the rustic setting.

Kalehan Hotel

The Kalehan Hotel is a family-owned property that was built in the style of a traditional Ottoman Inn.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, minibar, bottled water, safe, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

A tall, modern office building with large windows and trees in the foreground.

Colossae Thermal

Just adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage Pamukkale Hierapolis, the Colassae Thermal features a spa and pool.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, minibar, coffee / tea maker, electric kettle, safe, flatscreen TV, cable / satellite TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Aerial view of a resort surrounded by trees and mountains, featuring a large central swimming pool and several buildings with red-tiled roofs. Sunlight filters through the top left corner.

Barida Hotels

Located in Isparta’s city center, the Barida Hotels are comfortably elegant. The property features a spa with both a sauna and a Turkish bath as well as an indoor pool.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, minibar, safe, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

A two-story house with peach-colored walls is covered in vibrant bougainvillea. Surrounded by a lush garden, it features shuttered windows and a decorative iron fence.

MDC Hotel (or similar)

Located in a historical building in Ürgüp’s Old Town, this cave hotel features panoramic valley views and offers spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and spa baths. Rooms also have heated marble floors, arched ceilings and stone fireplaces.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, minibar, bottled water, tea/coffee maker, safe, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

What People Are Saying

This has been one of the best experiences of my life. There was compatibility between the women and our guide was simply a treasure. Lastly, our group size was just right!

What People Are Saying

I loved being treated so well on my AdventureWomen trip. Beautiful accommodations, great food and busy itineraries are what I look for. This trip delivered! I’m so so impressed with it and by the wonderful group of women I traveled with.

What People Are Saying

Fabulous experience! The guide, guests, and trip were superb. I loved learning about the culture, history, and food of Turkey. As someone who has used many travel companies – AdventureWomen is top-rated.

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
May 15 May 26
Space Available
$6,995*
Standard Room, Single
$8,595 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$6,995 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2026 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,600

Arrival: Arrive in Istanbul, Turkey (IST) by 1:00PM on Day 1

Depart: Depart Istanbul, Turkey (IST) on Day 12

What's Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • One group transfer on arrival and departure
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • All gratuities except for head guide

What's Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Gratuities for head guide

FAQs

Absolutely! We happily welcome all women as long as you are physically capable of doing the activities on your chosen trip. Our guests range from 18-85+! It is important to us to talk to each guest to make sure each woman chooses the right trip for her physical ability and interest.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. However, internal flights are included in some itineraries so please read the itinerary carefully.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Moderate: These adventures exercise your mind more than your body and are designed for women who prefer a leisurely, less rigorous experience. For example, you could walk up to 2 miles per day through cities and villages, stand in museums for a few hours, relax on a boat, or view wildlife from a vehicle.
  • Active: Adventures that get you on your feet! You should be in good physical condition where you are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone streets, biking manicured nature trails or kayaking calm waters.
  • High Energy: These adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on a rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing.
  • Challenging: Adventures that get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain.