THE COLORS OF TURKEY

The Colors of Turkey is a well-rounded 9-day journey that takes you through some of the country’s most iconic sights, with a good balance of history, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. For $685 per person, you’ll explore bustling Istanbul, marvel at Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and underground cities, relax in the mineral-rich terraces of Pamukkale, and walk through the ancient ruins of Ephesus. This tour is especially appealing if you’re eager to see diverse landscapes and explore Turkey’s layered history without the hassle of planning each step yourself.

Two things we especially love about this experience: First, the selection of key sites, like the UNESCO World Heritage Cotton Steps and the ancient city of Ephesus, blend well with the scenic drives across Central Anatolia, giving you a full picture of Turkey’s cultural and natural diversity. Second, the local guides and included entrance fees make it easier for travelers to focus on the sights rather than logistics—plus, the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and Wi-Fi on the bus adds important convenience.

One consideration is that hotel dinners in Istanbul are not included, so you’ll want to budget for some evenings out. Also, the tour’s focus on major highlights means it’s a bit fast-paced and might leave those who love deeper, immersive experiences wanting more time at each site. This tour suits travelers who want a structured, well-organized overview of Turkey’s highlights without sacrificing authentic cultural encounters. It’s perfect for first-timers or those wanting a comprehensive introduction with a good value.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Bursa.
• Authentic sites like the underground cities, Goreme open-air museum, and House of the Virgin Mary.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and bottled water included, simplifying travel logistics.
• Guided experiences with local guides and entrance fees included, offering deeper insights.
• Flexible options for booking with free cancellation and pay later, making planning easier.
• Cultural and natural diversity packed into 9 days, ideal for a balanced Turkish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Richness of Turkey in Nine Days

When we think of Turkey, images flood in of vibrant bazaars, ancient ruins, and surreal landscapes. This tour, organized by Euromarmara Tours, packs in the highlights, giving you a taste of the country’s layered history, stunning scenery, and lively culture. For those who want a structured journey that balances major sights with some free time, this offering hits the mark.

Istanbul: The City of Contrasts

The journey kicks off in Istanbul, where we’re greeted with assistance from the airport and settled into a hotel. While the first day is free for you to explore, the real magic begins on the second day when you have the option for a full day at leisure. You might choose to stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district, admiring the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from outside, or wander into the bustling Grand Bazaar.

We love that the tour includes three nights in Istanbul, giving you enough time to get a feel for this sprawling city. The hotel stays here include breakfast, so mornings start with a hearty meal before heading out into the city’s labyrinth of streets.

From Istanbul to Ankara: The Heart of Turkey

Traveling across the Bosphorus Bridge to Ankara, Turkey’s modern capital since 1923, is a highlight. The drive offers scenic views of the strait and the cityscape. In Ankara, the tour visits the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, home to Hittite artifacts and other relics that showcase Turkey’s ancient past. The visit to Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, offers a moment of reflection on Turkey’s modern history.

Cappadocia: Surreal Landscapes and Underground Cities

Cappadocia is a standout, with its rock formations and underground cities that served as refuges in times of invasion. You’ll visit the Goreme Valley, an open-air museum filled with rock-cut churches decorated with frescoes, and meander through Uçhisar’s troglodyte villages. The fairy chimneys—tall, cone-shaped rock spires—are a photographer’s dream.

What we find particularly engaging is the visit to an underground city; it’s a tangible reminder of how early inhabitants adapted to their environment for protection. This part of the tour offers a glimpse into daily life centuries ago, which really adds a layer of authenticity.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner at the hotel, often with traditional Turkish cuisine, and have the chance to absorb the peaceful atmosphere of this ancient land.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pamukkale: Nature’s Terraces

Crossing the Central Anatolian plain, the tour stops at Sultanhan Caravanserai, a 13th-century stopover for Silk Road travelers—an evocative reminder of Turkey’s historic role as a crossroads. The highlight here is Pamukkale, the “Cotton Castle,” a natural wonder with surreal limestone terraces filled with mineral-rich thermal waters.

The experience of walking barefoot through these terraces is unforgettable. It’s a chance to relax in mineral waters that have been used therapeutically for centuries. We love that the tour includes an overnight stay here, so you can enjoy the site without rushing.

Ephesus: Ancient Roman Marvels

From Pamukkale, the journey takes you to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the eastern Mediterranean. You’ll stroll through colossal ruins: the Celsus Library, the Great Theater, and the House of the Virgin Mary, a spiritual site visited by pilgrims worldwide.

The guide explains the history of these ruins, making the stones and columns come alive. The visit to a leather workshop offers a chance to see Turkish craftsmanship firsthand, and the experience is highly rated by travelers who appreciate authentic local industries.

Bursa: Ottoman Heritage

On the last full day, the tour visits Bursa, the early Ottoman capital. Its Green Mosque and Green Mausoleum are exquisite examples of Ottoman architecture. Walking through the silk market provides insight into Turkey’s ongoing craft traditions.

Concluding in Istanbul

After returning to Istanbul, the tour ends with a final overnight stay, giving you a chance to see anything you might have missed at the beginning or just enjoy a leisurely evening in this lively city.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The value here lies in the well-paced itinerary that hits all the major highlights without skimping on details. The guides and included entrance fees mean you won’t have to worry about logistics—just focus on soaking in the sights and sounds of Turkey. The hotels are comfortable and centrally located, giving you a good base to explore.

Travelers have remarked on the smooth transportation and the convenience of Wi-Fi, which makes sharing photos and staying connected easier. The inclusion of local guides at each site adds a layer of depth that you wouldn’t get if you visited independently.

However, keep in mind that hotel dinners in Istanbul are not included, so you’ll need to budget for some evenings out. Also, the tour’s structure might feel a bit fast-paced for those who prefer to linger longer at each site.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Turkey or travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the country. It’s also perfect if you prefer a organized, worry-free trip with all logistics managed, yet still want authentic cultural encounters and stunning scenery.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Colors of Turkey offers a solid introduction to this fascinating country. With its mix of urban exploration, ancient ruins, and spectacular landscapes, it provides great value for the price and a good balance of guided touring and free time. Although it’s designed for those who prefer a structured experience, it manages to showcase Turkey’s diversity and depth without feeling rushed.

If you’re eager to tick the classic sights off your bucket list, want to see some of the most striking scenery Turkey has to offer, and enjoy traveling comfortably with knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers on all fronts. Perfect for travelers who want to see it all—without the hassle of planning each detail.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers 3 nights in Istanbul, 1 in Ankara, 2 in Cappadocia, 1 in Pamukkale, and 1 in Izmir, with breakfast each morning and dinners in Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Izmir. It also includes transfers, local guides, entrance fees, VAT, Wi-Fi on the bus, and bottled water.

Are flights included?
No, the tour does not include return flights from Izmir. You’ll need to arrange your own travel to and from Turkey.

What is the average group size?
While not explicitly stated, the experience typically involves scheduled group services with English-speaking guides, and the transportation is air-conditioned, suggesting a comfortable group size.

Can I book a single room?
Yes, singles are available for an additional €340, payable on the first day of the tour.

Are meals in Istanbul included?
No, hotel dinners in Istanbul are not included, so plan for some evenings out.

How flexible are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

What language are the tours guided in?
All guided visits are conducted in French, with local guides providing in-depth commentary.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and layered clothing suitable for various weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the pace and nature of the sights suggest it’s more suited for adult travelers or older children interested in history and culture.

Embarking on The Colors of Turkey is like opening a beautifully illustrated history book, full of vibrant photos, stories, and moments that will stay with you long after you return. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this tour offers a well-balanced, authentic taste of Turkey’s many treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: