Flying Carpet 15-Day Tour from Istanbul

Experience Turkey’s Heart and Soul on the Flying Carpet 15-Day Tour

This 15-day journey from Istanbul through some of Turkey’s most iconic and lesser-known sites is perfect for travelers eager to see the country’s layered history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Starting and ending in Istanbul, the tour covers Gallipoli, Troy, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, and Ankara — a comprehensive route that balances ancient ruins, natural wonders, and bustling cities. A standout feature is the small group size, often just 8 travelers, which makes for a more personal experience with guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.

What we love about this experience is the way it combines authentic sites — like walking in the footsteps of Alexander at Troy, exploring the underground city of Cappadocia, or swimming in the thermal waters of Hierapolis — with the comfort of well-chosen accommodations and smooth transportation. The tour’s price of around $3,915 might seem steep at first glance, but the value becomes clear when you consider the all-inclusive nature, guided insights, and access to sites that often require private tours.

A possible consideration is the intensive pace — with many hours on the road and several sites each day, it’s ideal for travelers with good mobility and a love of history. If you’re seeking a relaxed, slow-paced vacation, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re excited to cover a lot, this tour offers a bucket-list experience that’s hard to beat.

This tour is especially suited for those who love history, archaeology, and culture. If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys guided tours, small groups, and authentic cultural interactions, you’ll find this experience engaging and rewarding. Plus, the enthusiastic guides often receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Turkey’s major highlights in 15 days
• Small group sizes for a more personalized and engaging experience
• Expert guides passionate about sharing Turkey’s stories and secrets
• Well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture
• All-inclusive access to key sites, with entrance fees included
• Value for money considering the extensive itinerary and guided expertise

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Istanbul: The Gateway to Turkey

Starting in Istanbul, the tour gives a perfect introduction to the city’s dual identity — straddling Europe and Asia. The guided tour covers Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia (St Sophia Museum), Topkapi Palace, and the iconic Hippodrome. We loved the way the guides unpack the stories behind these landmarks, making history come alive and giving us context we could remember.

In the afternoon, an optional Bosphorus cruise offers panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline and the chance to see the city from a waterway that divides two continents. This flexibility is appreciated; some travelers opt in while others prefer to explore at their own pace.

Gallipoli: A Site of Reflection

Next, the journey takes us to Gallipoli, a place of significant WWI history and remembrance. We visited ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, and original trenches, gaining insight into the sacrifices made here. Reviewers praise the attentiveness of guides like Fatih Karci, who shares stories with respect and depth.

Troy and Pergamon: Walking Through Legends

The visit to Troy brings homemade storytelling to life, complemented by exploring the Troy Museum, which showcases artifacts from the ancient city. Later, ascending to the Pergamon Acropolis reveals impressive temples and libraries, echoing Turkey’s historic importance as a cultural hub.

Ephesus and Local Traditions

Ephesus remains one of the most celebrated stops, where the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theatre highlight the city’s grandeur. Beyond the ruins, the tour includes a visit to a carpet village — an opportunity to see traditional hand-weaving and learn about the craftsmanship behind Turkish carpets. Attendees often comment on the authenticity and the chance to support traditional artisans.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis: Natural and Ancient Wonders

The white calcium terraces at Pamukkale are a highlight, with their surreal appearance and the chance to soak in thermal waters. Visiting Hierapolis adds a layer of history, as the Roman-era city dating back to the 2nd century AD. Reviewers frequently mention how relaxing and visually stunning this stop is.

Fethiye and Saklikent Gorge

In Fethiye, travelers can enjoy free time or optional boat trips among the 12 islands, or explore Saklikent Gorge — a favorite for lovers of nature and adventure.

Kayakoy and Antalya

The hauntingly beautiful Greek village of Kayakoy offers evocative photo opportunities, with its abandoned stone houses and peaceful atmosphere. In Antalya, the Necropol Museum displays ancient tombs and artifacts, giving a deeper understanding of the region’s history.

Aspendos and Perge

In Perge and Aspendos, the well-preserved 2nd-century amphitheatre is a major draw, showcasing Turkey’s impressive ancient engineering. Most travelers find these ruins a highlight, especially those passionate about classical architecture.

Konya: Sufism and the Silk Road

A visit to Mevlana’s mausoleum introduces the spiritual side of Turkey — the whirling dervishes and the teachings of Rumi. Also, the Çatalhöyük Museum provides insights into one of the world’s oldest settlements, adding depth to the journey.

Cappadocia: A Fairy Tale Landscape

The highlight here is exploring the Goreme Open Air Museum, with its fairy chimneys and cave churches. The underground city and the scenic valleys are unforgettable. Many reviews emphasize the passion of guides like Fetih Karci, whose enthusiasm makes the sites even more compelling.

Ankara and the End of the Tour

The final stop in Ankara includes a visit to Anitkabir, Ataturk’s mausoleum, a fitting conclusion that reflects Turkey’s modern history. Returning to Istanbul, the tour wraps up after two weeks of travel, leaving many travelers feeling like they’ve truly experienced the country.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Guides: Many reviews highlight guides like Fatih Karci and Tamer, praising their depth of knowledge, passion, and ability to make complex history accessible. Their storytelling often elevates what might otherwise be just ruins or sites into meaningful experiences.

A Well-Curated Itinerary: The combination of famous sites and hidden gems offers a balanced view of Turkey. The tour includes both archaeological marvels like Ephesus and natural wonders like Pamukkale and Salda Lake (the “Turkish Maldives”). Travelers can enjoy crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes along with history.

Value for Money: At just over $3,900, the tour covers most expenses, including entrance fees, accommodations, and guided tours. For those wanting a full, guided experience of Turkey’s highlights in just two weeks, it’s a solid investment.

Small Group Experience: The intimacy of small groups fosters more interaction with guides and fellow travelers. This often leads to memorable conversations and a more personalized experience.

Flexibility and Comfort: The tour provides pickup and drop-off transfers, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel stays carefully chosen for their location and quality. Optional activities like boat trips or wine tastings give travelers some freedom.

Practical Considerations

With a packed itinerary, expect long days on the move — often 8 hours or more on the road or at sites. This means good walking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are advisable. Although the tour is suitable for most, those with mobility issues should note the amount of walking and site exploration involved.

The price includes most major costs, but tips for guides and drivers are extra, and optional activities are not included. Travelers should also plan for optional dining or extra souvenirs.

The reviews suggest that hotels are generally well-rated and in good locations, but it’s worth double-checking the specifics if you have particular preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for history buffs, culture seekers, and those who enjoy guided group travel in small, engaging groups. If you’re eager to see Turkey’s archaeological sites, scenic landscapes, and enjoy local food and wine, you’ll find this tour fulfilling. Travelers who appreciate having experts explain the significance of each site will particularly value the guides’ storytelling.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more free time to explore on your own, this might feel a little rushed. Also, those who dislike long travel days should be prepared for some extended hours on the road.

The Sum Up

The Flying Carpet 15-Day Tour is a well-rounded way to experience Turkey’s diverse appeal — from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, and the WWII history at Gallipoli. The high praise for guides like Fatih Karci underpins the value of knowledgeable hosts who bring stories alive.

The itinerary offers a thorough look at Turkey’s past and present, with enough optional activities to tailor the experience. The value is clear when considering the comprehensive access to sites, quality accommodations, and expert guidance packed into two weeks.

If you’re someone who loves history, archaeology, scenic landscapes, and authentic cultural exchanges, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to see Turkey’s highlights with an engaging group and knowledgeable guides.

In short: expect a memorable, rewarding adventure that balances storytelling, scenery, and culture, all at a fair price for the depth of experience offered.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle, with pickups and drop-offs arranged in Istanbul and other sites.

Are entrance fees covered?
Most entrance fees are included, giving you access to key sites like Ephesus, Hierapolis, and Aspendos without extra charges.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
The itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and site exploration, so while most travelers can participate, those with mobility concerns should check specific site accessibility.

What’s the group size?
The tour generally accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, fostering a more intimate and engaging experience.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included across the tour, and dinner is optional for some nights, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine on your own.

What is the best time to book?
Confirmation is usually quick, but booking at least 9 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Overall, the Flying Carpet 15-Day Tour from Istanbul delivers a well-paced, insightful, and engaging way to uncover Turkey’s many treasures. It’s a journey that combines history, scenery, and culture with the comfort and expertise that make travel truly memorable.