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Hot-air balloons at sunrise in Cappadocia

Nearby routes

Turkey

Turkey is a destination worth exploring with its cultural riches and natural beauties.

Best time
April–June, September–October
Daily budget
70–130 €
Language
Turkish
Currency
Turkish Lira

Turkey is a country where different cultures meet and fascinates with its historical texture. It is recommended to visit this country between April and October, which can be explored in about 5-7 days. Traveling by plane provides easy access to many points in Turkey. It is generally suggested to start the first day in Istanbul; this way, you can experience both historical and modern life together.

Istanbul, being Turkey's largest and most cosmopolitan city, is ideal as a starting point for group trips. When you arrive in Istanbul by plane, there are many alternative transportation options available to explore the city's historical and cultural riches. It is recommended that the group decides together to visit Istanbul's iconic places on the first day. This strengthens group dynamics and makes the travel plan more enjoyable.

Accommodation options in Turkey are quite diverse. You can find hotels, guesthouses, or alternatives like Airbnb in popular areas such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. When choosing a place to stay as a group, you should consider your budget and comfort. For those who prefer to stay in Istanbul, central areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet are ideal. These areas are the most suitable points to explore the city.

When traveling in Turkey, it is important to determine your budget per person. The budget range varies between 70-130 €. This budget is sufficient to cover basic needs such as accommodation, meals, and transportation. As a group, deciding on your budget together and planning expenses in advance helps you avoid unnecessary costs.

This period is when Turkey's climate is most pleasant. Temperatures generally range between 20-30 degrees, and crowds are fewer. This period is especially preferred for coastal areas to avoid the summer heat and participate in local events.

Places to see

The Galata Tower and the rooftops in Istanbul

Marmara

Istanbul

Istanbul is the richest city in Turkey in terms of culture and history. With iconic structures like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, it is ideal for group trips. Local transportation is quite easy; you can comfortably explore using public transport and taxis. Generally, you can start gathering here on the first day and begin visiting historical sites as a group.

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul

Central Anatolia

Cappadocia

Cappadocia is famous for its natural beauties and unique fairy chimneys. Taking a hot air balloon ride here will be an unforgettable experience for the group. Additionally, accommodation options with underground cities and cave hotels are quite interesting. Generally, allocating 2-3 days to explore Cappadocia is sufficient.

Fairy chimneys and balloons in Cappadocia

Aegean

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is famous for its white travertines and hot springs. Here, you can see both natural beauties and enjoy the thermal baths. Spending a day here as a group offers a relaxing experience. Transportation to Pamukkale is generally provided by bus or private vehicle.

The Library of Celsus in Ephesus Ancient City.

Aegean

Ephesus Ancient City

Ephesus is one of the most important settlements of ancient times. Visiting historical structures here as a group offers a very educational experience. It is sufficient to allocate a day to explore Ephesus Ancient City. Transportation from Izmir is easy; you can reach it quickly by bus.

Antalya's blue flag beaches and historical ruins.

Mediterranean

Antalya

Antalya is one of Turkey's most popular holiday resorts. With its beaches, historical ruins, and natural beauties, it is ideal for group trips. Here, you can enjoy a seaside holiday and explore historical ruins. Transportation to Antalya is generally provided by plane, and local transportation is quite comfortable.

Bodrum's beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Aegean

Bodrum

Bodrum is a popular holiday destination in the summer months. It is filled with nightlife, beautiful beaches, and historical ruins. You can enjoy the sea and sun here as a group. Transportation to Bodrum is generally provided by plane, and local transportation is easy.

Things to do

Hot Air Balloon

This is the most popular activity to do in Cappadocia. It offers an unforgettable experience for groups, allowing you to see the region's unique landscapes from the air. The activity usually starts early in the morning and lasts about 1 hour. The price range per person varies between 150-250 €.

Historical Walking Tour

This is an ideal activity for exploring historical sites in Istanbul. These tours, conducted with a guide, are both fun and educational. Participating in this tour as a group usually lasts 3-4 hours. The price range per person is around 30-50 €.

Sea Enjoyment

Enjoying a seaside holiday in regions like Antalya and Bodrum is a great activity for the group. You can sunbathe on the beach, swim, and do water sports. This activity not only allows the group to have a good time but also offers relaxation opportunities. Daily spending per person for beach entries and water sports can vary between 20-50 €.

Thermal Spring Visit

The thermal springs in Pamukkale offer a relaxing experience for the group. You can relax in pools filled with hot water springs and find health. This activity usually lasts half a day and requires a cost of 20-40 € per person. Spending time here as a group is quite enjoyable.

Ancient City Tour

Visiting ancient cities like Ephesus is an educational activity for the group. While exploring historical structures, you can gain more information by receiving guidance. This tour usually lasts 3-4 hours, and the cost per person is around 25-45 €. It is a great opportunity for the group to gain experience together.

Food

Kebab

One of Turkey's most famous delicacies, kebab is found in different varieties in every region. In cities like Istanbul and Gaziantep, dining at a kebab restaurant as a group is enjoyable. Kebab is usually served in skewer or döner form and accompanied by rice or flatbread. Additionally, you can share appetizers at the kebab restaurant to experience more flavors.

Baklava

Baklava is one of the most beloved desserts of Turkish cuisine. Gaziantep baklava is particularly famous. You can visit the best pastry shops in the city to taste baklava as a group. Serving baklava with tea or Turkish coffee offers a sweet experience. This delicacy will be an unforgettable part of your trip to Turkey.

Pide

Pide is another popular dish made in various regions of Turkey. It is usually baked with various ingredients placed on thin dough. You can find different varieties, especially in Kayseri and Trabzon. You can go to a pide restaurant as a group and share different varieties. Pide is a very delicious meal when served with ayran.

Meze

Mezes, an indispensable part of Turkish cuisine, are a great option to share as a group. You can prepare a meze platter filled with olive oil dishes, yogurt mezes, and various salads. Mezes are particularly served in restaurants in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions. You can choose to drink alcohol or ayran with meze, which makes your dining experience more enjoyable.

Getting around

Transportation in Turkey is quite easy with intercity buses, trains, and planes. You can transition to other cities starting from Istanbul. Planning your transportation as a group saves you money and makes your journey easier.

  • Traveling by bus from Istanbul to Cappadocia usually takes 10-12 hours. During this journey, you can have a pleasant time together on the bus. Buying your tickets in advance eliminates the problem of finding seats.
  • Traveling by plane from Istanbul to Antalya takes about 1 hour. By purchasing plane tickets as a group, you can benefit from discounted prices. This fast mode of transportation saves time and allows you to extend your holiday.
  • Transportation to Bodrum is possible by both bus and plane. Traveling by plane is faster and takes about 1 hour. By reserving seats as a group, you can travel at more affordable prices.
  • Renting a car or using a taxi for local transportation in Cappadocia is a good option. This way, you can easily reach the places you want as a group. Car rental prices vary between 30-50 € per day.
  • Using buses or trams for local transportation is quite common. In Istanbul, by purchasing a public transport card, you can travel more economically as a group. These cards are valid on all transportation vehicles.
  • Intercity travel by train is also possible. Especially, there are high-speed train services between Izmir and Ankara. These journeys offer a comfortable and fast travel opportunity.

Where to stay

Accommodation options in Turkey are quite diverse. You can find hotels, guesthouses, or alternatives like Airbnb in popular areas such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya. When choosing a place to stay as a group, you should consider your budget and comfort.

Central Istanbul

Staying in central areas of Istanbul is ideal for exploring the city. Areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet stand out with their proximity to restaurants and tourist attractions. These areas, which are also lively in terms of nightlife, offer various hotel and guesthouse options. Accommodation prices generally range between 80-150 €.

Cave Hotels in Cappadocia

Cave hotels are quite popular for accommodation in Cappadocia. These hotels offer a unique experience while preserving the natural structure. They also provide accommodation with a view of the fairy chimneys. Prices generally range between 100-200 €, and discounted prices can be obtained when staying as a group.

Near Antalya Beach

Staying close to the beaches in Antalya enriches your holiday experience. Three and four-star hotels are located within walking distance to the beach. These hotels usually have pools, restaurants, and various activities. Prices generally range between 70-150 €, and more affordable prices can be offered when preferred as a group.

Central Bodrum

Staying in central areas of Bodrum provides an advantage in terms of proximity to nightlife. There are many hotels, restaurants, and bars in these areas. Additionally, these accommodation areas are also close to the beaches, making them ideal for group trips. Prices generally range between 80-160 €.

A working travel budget

This budget range covers daily expenses per person, including accommodation, meals, and local transportation. Additional budget may be needed for extra tours or activities. By making decisions as a group, it is possible to find more affordable accommodation and meal options. A mid-range day: 70–130 €.

Economical

70 €

The daily cost per person covers accommodation, meals, and local transportation. Economical accommodation options are generally found in guesthouses or hostels. Eating at local restaurants helps you maintain your budget.

Comfortable

130 €

The daily cost per person covers comfortable accommodation, meals at local restaurants, and local transportation. Staying in mid-range hotels offers more comfort for the group. Also, don't forget to allocate your budget for extra tours or activities.

Luxury

200 €

The daily cost per person covers luxury hotel accommodation, gourmet restaurants, and private transportation options. In a luxury trip, you can find more activities and tour options as a group. This budget is ideal for a comfortable holiday.

Sample routes

7 days · Ideal for those who love history and nature.

Explore Turkey: 7-Day Route

  1. Day 1 Istanbul Arrival in Istanbul, check into the hotel, and visit historical sites on the first day. Visit important places like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. It’s a good idea to go to a local restaurant for dinner as a group. At the end of the day, you can take a Bosphorus tour to see the lights of Istanbul.
  2. Day 2 Istanbul Dedicate your second day to exploring other important points in Istanbul. You can shop at the Grand Bazaar and climb the Galata Tower. Additionally, you can walk in Taksim Square to feel the atmosphere of the city. For dinner, dining at a kebab restaurant as a group will be a great experience.
  3. Day 3 Cappadocia Early in the morning, head to Cappadocia. Start the day with a hot air balloon tour to see the region's magnificent landscapes from the air. Then, visit the fairy chimneys and explore the underground cities. For dinner, you will have the opportunity to taste local flavors of Cappadocia at a local restaurant.
  4. Day 4 Cappadocia On your second day in Cappadocia, you can take a nature walk in Ihlara Valley. Additionally, visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum will help you understand the historical and cultural significance of the region. For dinner, you can taste local wines at a wine house as a group.

5 days · Suitable for those who want a seaside holiday and historical exploration.

Aegean and Mediterranean Tour: 5 Days

  1. Day 1 Bodrum Arrival in Bodrum, relax on the beach, and go to a local restaurant for dinner. You can visit Bodrum Castle to explore the historical texture. In the evening, you can experience Bodrum's vibrant nightlife.
  2. Day 2 Antalya Early in the morning, head to Antalya. You can relax on the beaches of Antalya and do water sports. For dinner, you can choose a seafood restaurant as a group. At the end of the day, you can take a walk in Kaleiçi to experience the historical atmosphere.
  3. Day 3 Pamukkale Head to Pamukkale for relaxation in the travertines and visit the thermal springs. You can find relaxation by benefiting from the hot water springs. At the end of the day, you can have dinner at a local restaurant as a group.
  4. Day 4 Ephesus Dedicate your day to visiting Ephesus Ancient City. While exploring historical structures, you can gain information with a guide. For dinner, you might consider dining at a kebab restaurant as a group. At the end of the day, return to Bodrum to continue your holiday.

Good to know

  • The weather in Turkey can vary, so it's good to check before your trip.
  • Respecting local culture enriches the experiences you will gain during your trip.
  • Using simple English when communicating with locals is usually sufficient.
  • The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira; don't forget to exchange currency.
  • When using public transport, don't forget to buy your tickets in advance.
  • Trying local dishes is one of the best ways to understand Turkey's culture.
  • The hot air balloon experience in Cappadocia is a great activity for the group.
  • Be careful in crowded places to ensure your safety.