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The Blue Mosque at sunset with birds flying in the sky, reflected in tranquil water, surrounded by greenery.

Turkey: History and Culture of the Past and Present

Location: Asia
Duration: 11 Days
Price: From $5,995
Activity Level: Moderate
Book Now
Sample Itinerary

Turkey: History and Culture of the Past and Present

Location: Asia
Duration: 11 Days
Price: From $5,995
Activity Level: Moderate
Book Now
Sample Itinerary

Call us with questions

1.800.804.8686

Overview

Explore the architectural splendor of Istanbul and the natural beauty of the Turkish countryside in this 11-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 highlighting major destinations: Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Ephesus, and others. Features flight routes and 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.
Three people in casual outdoor clothing stand against an ancient stone wall, wearing hats and sunglasses. Two are in front, smiling, and one is in the background.
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.
Three people in casual outdoor clothing stand against an ancient stone wall, wearing hats and sunglasses. Two are in front, smiling, and one is in the background.

Itinerary

Please note that the 2026 itinerary follows the reverse order of the 2025 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.

Arrive in Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul, Turkey (IST) by 1:00 PM today. You’ll be met by your guide at the airport and transferred to the hotel. There will be one group transfer provided (time TBD based on flights).

Transfers for other arrival times can be purchased for an additional fee. Check into your hotel and relax before dinner tonight. 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 the Turkish sites (and sights!).

Meals dinner
People walk through a bustling arched marketplace with shops and stalls on either side, selling various goods.

Explore Istanbul by Foot and Private Cruise

Today, you’ll walk throughout the city of Istanbul, stopping for lunch along the way as you take in the ancient sites including Topkapı Palace and the ancient Hippodrome. Then, venture on to the Grand Bazaar which was built in 1460 and is home to thousands of lively shops and workshops. In early evening, you’ll take a private boat trip along the Bosphorus, the natural strait that forms part of the boundary between Asian and European continents. Along the shores of the Bosphorus are old Ottoman villas, old palaces, fortresses and parks that contribute the beauty of the strait. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight after the cruise

Meals breakfast, lunch
A grand mosque with six minarets and a large dome is illuminated at dusk, surrounded by trees and overlooking the sea.

Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Spice Bazaar

After breakfast today you’ll visit Hagia Sophia, a monument to the golden age of the Byzantine Empire dating from 537 CE. Next is Basilica Cistern which was the largest underground cistern of Byzantine Istanbul erected in the 530’s. Finally, visit the Spice Bazaar that dates to the 1600’s when it was the last stop for the camel caravans that travelled the Silk Road from China, India, and Persia. Spices were also brought by ships from Alexandria in Egypt and docked just in front of the Bazaar. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening.

Meals breakfast, lunch
A group of people sit and stand in a rocky alcove, posing for a photo. They are wearing casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities.

Istanbul to Cappadocia

After breakfast, head to the airport for a 90-minute flight to Cappadocia, a historical region in Turkey. Upon arrival, drive for 90 minutes to Uchisar, known for its many rock-cut structures, churches, dwellings, and castles. Enjoy lunch in Goreme town. Continue to Pashabag, a monastic settlement within a unique landscape filled with fairy chimneys. Then visit Devrent to explore the lunar surroundings and view naturally shaped statues on foot.

Set off on an afternoon hike through Red Valley, another captivating landscape dotted with hidden rock-carved churches, then, make your way to the hotel and check in.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Colorful, intricate religious frescoes cover the arched ceiling of an ancient chapel, depicting various figures and scenes.

Mesmerizing Cappadocia

Today you’ll visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a collection of churches and monasteries set amidst the rocky landscape for which this area is famous. 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 the village of Ayvali.

There are several ancient underground cities in Cappadocia, and you will have the chance to explore some of the amazing stone architecture hidden beneath the ground. You’ll also see beautiful examples of Turkish pottery this afternoon before you head back to the hotel for dinner.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A group of people standing in front of an ancient stone building with three flags on top under a partly cloudy sky.

Travel Day: Cappadocia to Isparta

Today you will travel just over 300 miles to Isparta with several stops along the way. First visit the Sultanhani Caravanserai, a major medieval inn that sheltered travelers along the famous Silk Road trade route. Built in 1229, this massive structure is decorated in ornamental marble and stonework. You will also stop in Konya to visit the Mausoleum of the poet and mystic Rumi, founder the Order of the Whirling Dervishes. Enjoy lunch as a group in a local restaurant before traveling to the town of Egirdir, home to a beautiful freshwater lake. You’ll explore the town by the lake and walk around the Yesilada (Green Island). After your walking tour, you’ll drive just over 20 miles to Isparta where you’ll dine at the hotel as a group.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Person in a blue jacket and pink headscarf stands in a field of pink flowers, holding a bag of petals.

Traditional Rose Harvest

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a quick drive to Güneykent (or Ardıçlı) Village one of many rose-growing centers in region. Try your hand at harvesting roses alongside a village woman who will demonstrate the proper method to pick and handle the delicate flowers. Then visit a traditional distiller to view the process first-hand and have the chance to buy rose products like rose oil and rose water. Enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant in the village.

After lunch, you’ll pass through Isparta on your way to Golcuk, a volcanic lake in the middle of the caldera. Set out on a 2.5-mile hike around the lake and take in the scenic views. Join your fellow travelers for dinner at the hotel tonight.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Three women sitting at a round table with a sand coffee maker, holding cups of coffee, in a casual setting.

Isparta to Pamukkale

Today you will explore the ancient city of Cibyra along with Associate Professor Sukru Ozudogru, who will give an informative talk about the many excavations that are underway in the area. You can try your hand at excavation under the watchful eye of local archeologists. After lunch in a local restaurant, drive for about 90 minutes to Pamukkale. This town is famous for the thermal waters which flow over the breathtaking travertine terraces that line the hillside. Check into your hotel before enjoying dinner with the group tonight.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Three people in headscarves pose for a selfie inside a historic building with arches and an ornate interior.

Pamukkale to Selcuk

Enjoy your visit to Hierapolis-Pamukkale, famous for its self-built travertine pools and channels and its fascinating ruins. Today’s lunch will be at a restaurant along the way. After lunch, you’ll visit historic Artemision, the Temple of Artemis, which dates to the 4th century BC. Then walk along the stone-paved streets of Sirince Village, abandoned by the Greeks during the population exchange of 1923 and now occupied by Turks who continue the Greek tradition of wine production.

Check in your hotel in Selcuk after your day of exploration, and enjoy dinner at the hotel tonight. After dinner, you will be joined by the hotel owner who will share her grandparents’ experiences, detailing their migration from Greece to Turkey during one of the significant episodes of relocation between the two countries.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Ancient stone facade of the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey, with tourists exploring the site.

Tour Esphesus

After breakfast, you’ll tour glorious Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Marble-paved avenues, wonderfully preserved homes, temples, theaters, baths, markets, libraries, and gymnasiums bring us back to the splendor of the ancient world.

After lunch, you’ll visit an ancient cottage on the slopes of the mountains that is believed to be Virgin Mary’s last home. Head to the airport this afternoon for your flight back to Istanbul for a celebratory farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Three people smiling in an indoor market with shops and other people in the background.

Depart Istanbul

All great adventures must one day come to an end. This morning, enjoy your last breakfast in Turkey and say “hoşça kalin” to your new friends before departing for the airport.

Meals breakfast
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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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!

Martha K.

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.

Jamie P.

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.

Karen H.

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
May 16 May 26
Space Available
$5,995*
Select Room
Standard Room, Single
$6,995 total, $800 deposit
Book Now
Standard Room, Double
$5,995 total, $800 deposit
Book Now

*Additional Pricing Information: 2025 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,000

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

DepartURE: Depart Istanbul, Turkey (IST) any time after 1:00 PM on Day 11.

On arrival and departure days, an airport group transfer will be provided (time TBD based on flights). Should guests require transfers outside of these designated times, we are available to arrange additional transfers at the passengers’ expense.

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 regardless of race, creed, or sexual preference, 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.

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