Personalized trips to Turkey
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

Introducing Turkey

Discover Turkey.
Go for the food and culture, stay for the sun and sand. Turkey offers one of the best archaeological and culinary experiences in the world—not to mention world-class beaches and sailing along its Aegean and Mediterranean coasts.

Where should you go?

In the words of Napoleon, "If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital." Turkey's most famous city is filled with impressive Ottoman and Byzantine sites, excellent restaurants, and maze-like bazaars—you could easily plan an entire five-day trip around it. Another must-visit is moon-like Cappadocia, where "fairy chimneys" and underground cities decorate two otherworldly valleys. Other top picks include ancient Ephesus, the mineral spas of Pamukkale, and coastal Antalya.

When is the best time to visit?
There's a Turkish destination for every season—and in fact, much of the country is enjoyable year-round. Weather is dependably good in Antalya and Izmir, along with a number of notable small towns: Fethiye, Marmaris, Göcek, and Bodrum, to name a few. If you're heading north to Istanbul, know that it can get quite cold in winter (December-March). 

How many days do you need?
Nine to ten days is a great trip length for most travelers—it's enough time to cover the highlights and spend some time getting off the beaten path. Consider this classic 9-day tour that starts in Istanbul and continues to Cappadocia, Izmir, ancient Ephesus, and the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. Or, you might combine Istanbul and Cappadocia with Konya, Antalya, and Fethiye. See more itineraries

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Turkey Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Sail over Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon ride
Map of Explore İstanbul & Cappadocia - 6 Days
Explore İstanbul & Cappadocia - 6 Days

In under a week, you can discover two of Turkey's most popular destinations—the bustling capital of Istanbul and the lunar-like valleys of Cappadocia. Explore the capital's Ottoman and Byzantine sites with guided walking tours, a trip to the Grand Bazaar, and a boat cruise along the Bosporus Strait. Then, fly to Cappadocia to admire its stunning valleys with a hot-air balloon ride over the "fairy chimneys" and visit to the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum and the underground city of Kaymaklı.

İstanbul's Ortaköy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge
Map of Highlights of Turkey - 10 Days
Highlights of Turkey - 10 Days

Over 10 packed days, you'll experience the highlights of Turkey, from the Ottoman and Byzantine monuments in Istanbul to the lunar valleys of Cappadocia. It's an itinerary that includes adventurous hot-air balloon rides and explorations of ancient city ruins. Plus, you'll have time to relax in a natural spa between the fun city tours and outdoor excursions.

Famous Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia
Explore Classic Turkey From Istanbul to Pamukkale - 9 Days

This 9-day tour will explore the diverse regions of Turkey, starting with a guided tour and a boat cruise in the vibrant city of Istanbul, discovering the famous Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman sites. Next head to the lunar-like terrain of Cappadocia where you can take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning valleys, visit a historical caravanserai, and explore the underground city of Kaymakli. After discovering Izmir and the ancient city of Ephesus, end your trip at a spa hotel near the famous white travertine terraces of Pamukkale.

Adorned Fishing Boats in Istanbul
Explore the Sites of Istanbul - 5 Days

Channeling the words of Napoleon, "If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital", this tour explores the Ottoman and Byzantine sites of the city, including the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. View these grandiose structures by boat by cruising along the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara, stopping on the island of Buyukada for a peek into the posh life of the 19th century. Peruse the Spice Market, explore the hip neighborhood of Beyoğlu, and climb the Galata Tower for amazing views of the city.

Hikers on the Lycian Way
Map of Hiking the Lycian Way in Turkey: Kas, Adrasan & Antalya - 9 Days
Hiking the Lycian Way in Turkey: Kas, Adrasan & Antalya - 9 Days

On this 9-day tour, you'll hike the famous Lycian Way, an ancient trade along Turkey's Mediterranean coast. You will be completing the trail from west to east, beginning in Kas, continuing to through Adrasan, and finally ending in Antalya. On the way, you will pass through ancient Lycian cities like Phellos,  Aperlai, Phaselis, and Cirali. You will also tour remote Mediterranean villages by boat, visit sites featured in Greek mythology, and enjoy some of southern Turkey's most beautiful scenery.

Ruins of the ancient city of Perge
Map of Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Konya - 9 Days
Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Konya - 9 Days

Embark on a trip through Turkey's history and discover why this country was one of the most important forces of the ancient world. Begin in Istanbul, a melting pot of east and west which straddles the European and Asian continental border, and end in Antalya, home of some of the world's best-preserved ancient sites. Along the way, you'll visit the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, cruise down the Bosphorus River, and visit the tomb of famed Sufi mystic and poet Rumi.

Make the Most of Your Time in Turkey

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Hagia Sophia Mosque mosque, Istanbul
How Many Days to Spend in Turkey

Turkey is a huge country, so unless you have three weeks or more, it's wise not to spread yourself too thin. How long to spend will depend on whether you're on a quick,...

Facade of the ancient Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey
Map of 1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With seven days in Turkey, you can experience the best of the country's highlights on a classic tour of Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Izmir. Alternatively, take a deep dive into...

Istanbul
Map of 10 Days in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, you can mix and match adventures to create the perfect vacation in Turkey. A highlights tour will take you from the Ottoman monuments of Istanbul to the fairy tale...

Sail high above Turkey's iconic Cappadocia on a sunrise hot air balloon tour
Map of 2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Turkey gives you carte blanche to explore high and low, from the historic streets of Istanbul to the lunar valleys of Cappadocia to the sun-kissed Turquoise Coast....

Turkey Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Turkey Content

Active travelers can include a stretch of the Lycian Way in their 15-day Turkey itinerary
Map of 15 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
15 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Given Turkey's small size, you can visit at least five regions in 15 days. Foodies will enjoy sampling Istanbul's street food and cooking with a chef in Cappadocia. Those interested in history and heritage will appreciate a whirling dervish performance and guided tours to archaeological sites such as Ephesus. Travelers eager to unwind can indulge in a Turkish spa treatment and relax on Antalya's beaches, while those who prefer an active itinerary can trek the Lycian Way or dive along the Turquoise Coast.

With just under two weeks, you'll have time to combine must-visit landscapes like Cappadocia with city and coastal highlights
Map of 13 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
13 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 13 days in Turkey, you can hit the highlights at a slower pace or delve deeper into your interests with a more focused itinerary. Foodies can taste street eats in Istanbul and learn to cook with a stone oven in Cappadocia. History buffs should check off numerous archaeological sites like Troy, Ephesus, and Aspendos. Active travelers can hike amid Love Valley's rock formations and tackle a section of the Lycian Way, while the Turquoise Coast beckons to those looking for a relaxed adventure on land and sea.

With 12 days you can get beyond the standard highlights and see Turkish gems like Antalya, with its distinctive minarets
Map of 12 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
12 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

The availability of domestic flights makes it possible to visit at least five regions of Turkey in 12 days. Get an introduction to Turkish history with guided tours that include Ephesus and Istanbul's Hagia Sophia. Culinary travelers will enjoy an Eminonu street food tour and wine tasting in Sirince. Those keen on cultural experiences can join a pottery demonstration in Avanos and a cooking class in Cappadocia, while adventurers will appreciate e-biking in Antalya, scuba diving near Kas, and hiking the Lycian Way.

Turkey Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 5 Days in Turkey - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Turkey - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Turkey
Travel specialist Berat Ornek
active 5 hours ago

Berat Ornek

At Trail Travel, I create journeys that let travelers experience Turkey through story, not just sightseeing, weaving together cultural heritage, gastronomy, and custom-built routes shaped around...

read more...
Travel specialist Zehra Alper
active 7 hours ago

Zehra Alper

I have been more like a traveler until I met Unison Turkey. In my college years, I was a traveler, mostly exploring Turkey. After gaining enough experience, I wanted to make use of my experiences,...

read more...
Travel specialist Murat Ornek
active 9 hours ago

Murat Ornek

Growing up with Turkish and Guatemalan roots scattered across the globe, my earliest travels weren't vacations—they were visits to family in different corners of the world. That early exposure to...

read more...
Travel specialist Burcu Kisakurek

Burcu Kisakurek

I have been a willing ambassador for my country for many years. I have started my professional life as a travel agent working in a youth hostel in 2000 and since then I have met many people, booked...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Turkey also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Turkey

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

My 2 sisters and I planned a trip to Turkey t...
Turkey | Oct 7 - Oct 22, 2026

W
Wendy F.
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada | Reviewed on Oct 25, 2026
My 2 sisters and I planned a trip to Turkey through KimKim and worked directly with Berat. We provided some overall criteria (cultural and historical) but left most of the planning up to Berat with a few changes. She did a terrific job meeting our expectations. At one point I had an unexpected surgery and we were able to easily postphone our trip for a year. The trip was 16 days, 6 of it in Istanbul with a guide for two days and the rest was with a guide and a couple of drivers.... Read more

My 2 sisters and I planned a trip to Turkey through KimKim and worked directly with Berat. We provided some overall criteria (cultural and historical) but left most of the planning up to Berat with a few changes. She did a terrific job meeting our expectations. At one point I had an unexpected surgery and we were able to easily postphone our trip for a year. The trip was 16 days, 6 of it in Istanbul with a guide for two days and the rest was with a guide and a couple of drivers. Communication was excellent, including all detailed information. We were met at airports (twice), drivers were all professional and had very good vehicles (one brand new) and always on time. We had a Hamam visit planned and were dropped off and picked up with no worries. One driver we had for 5 days even brought coffee and tea in thermoses for a long drive. Both guides were exceptional. The guide we had for most of the trip 9/10 days provided many spontaneous extra diversions ie: natural potato storage facility, women cooking down molasses and tomatoes by the side of the road etc and provided excellent overviews before visiting a place . And the ice cream we ate with a knife and fork!! We felt priviledged to have him.
All the places we visited were impressive. and memorable ...there were so many! Probably the most was the 9,000 year old Catalhukuk, the underground caves, Caravanseri on the silk road, Mosques for me.
Our hotels were exactly what we wanted .... lots of character and with comfort as well. Very memorable. The communication via the app was great. Everything was very timely and smooth. We had booked a balloon ride in Cappadocia for the first day but weather cancelled it. We were able to rebook for the day we were leaving but again it was cancelled due to weather. Then we were offered to book at Pamukkale if we wanted, which we did and were able to do. So easy to have it all arranged for us. And any changes fit in easily. A wonderful trip!!!

Hotel Reviews
Nisanyan Houses
Selçuk

Our last hotel. And what a special place. We did have the cooking class in a stone house with openfire/oven. when we arrived which was fun ...and then we ate the food which was great. I stayed in a little stone cottage which was really cool! The stars were very bright ...not something you see anymore. Lots of cats which we enjoyed. A very quaint beautiful spot. And wonderful people/staff. Lots of character but very different from all the other places. Gardens, fuit and olive trees. A really nice place to end our trip.

Doğa Thermal Hotel & Spa
Denizli

We had asked for a spa hotel to have a rest day near the end of our trip so this fit the bill. This hotel is used for large tour groups so is very large, has a huge dinner buffet and good size breakfast buffet. Licensed. The simming pool with hot water is nice and not crowded. I did not bother with the cold one which apeared empty. I did use the Hamam for a turkish bath. It was not up to the one in Istanbul which was terrific. The staff were all good. WE didn'tleave thehotel except for our tour,ballon ride so I do not know about the area.

Hich Hotel Konya
Konya

An excellent location with a view of the Mosques. A focus onbooks. We expected a restaurant for supper but a very small menu so we went out. Easy to find lots of restaurants close by. Lots of character. A good breakafst.

Kale Konak Hotel

We were looking for unique places with character to stay on our trip. This fit the bill! So many things to look at and every day you saw more. So much character. Lots of cats, as there are everywhere. A beautiful view. Wonderful breakfast and cake in the afternoon.

Armada Hotel
Istanbul

We enjoyed this hotel with views of the Bosphorus and the Blue Mosque. We visited the rooftop garden with herbs and fruit trees every morning and afternoon. The breakfast buffet was large with a great view and open windows. The turtles were also an added interest in the lobby. We were able to walk to places easily. We were there 6 nights and were very satisfied.

Location
We quickly learned our way around.
Activity Reviews
Visit Eflatunpınar: A hidden gem from the 13th century BC
Visit Eflatunpınar: A hidden gem from the 13th century BC
Konya
Konya: Explore the cultural heritage of Rumi
Konya: Explore the cultural heritage of Rumi
Konya
Step back in time at Çatalhöyük: The World’s First City!
Step back in time at Çatalhöyük: The World’s First City!
Konya

This was very interestingand highly recommend .

Explore the heritage of the wonderful Topkapi Palace + Harem
Explore the heritage of the wonderful Topkapi Palace + Harem
İstanbul
Visit to Ephesus Archaeological Museum + House of Virgin Mary
Visit to Ephesus Archaeological Museum + House of Virgin Mary
Turkey
Cooking Workshop at Nisanyan Houses
Cooking Workshop at Nisanyan Houses
Şirince

This was really fun and in such a nice place. The food which you get to eat is good too!

Visit Beautiful Red Valley + Çavuşin
Visit Beautiful Red Valley + Çavuşin
Cappadocia
Esrefoglu: A Unique Wooden Mosque from the 13th Century
Esrefoglu: A Unique Wooden Mosque from the 13th Century
Konya
Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Cappadocia
Beautiful Cappadocian Valleys: Zelve, Paşabağ and Uçhisar Fortress
Beautiful Cappadocian Valleys: Zelve, Paşabağ and Uçhisar Fortress
Cappadocia
Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus
İstanbul
Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai
Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai
Turkey
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
İstanbul
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Explore the Ancient City of Ephesus
Turkey

This Ancient City is quite Impressive. As it was the last day of our tour we were getting a bit overloaded. I liked how you could really see what it would have been like . And the library is very impressive.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Pamukkale

I was prepared to be disappointed with the terraces but was not. We were able to put our feet in and walk a bit. So there is still enough of it left to be beautiful and worthwhile. Hierapolis was impressive as well. One could imagine why the Romans settled here.

Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Cappadocia

This was interesting and the work is impressive. I bought a couple of very small dishes and when I got home I realized how exceptional they are.

Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklı Underground City
Cappadocia

This is an amazing place that I don't think you would find elswhere. A definite highlight for me.

Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Cappadocia
Explore the Basilica Cistern
Explore the Basilica Cistern
İstanbul
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 26, 2026

Hey Wendy,
Thanks so much for your review. So glad to hear you had a wonderful experience. We'll be here for whenever you'd like to visit Turkey again!
Warm regards,
Berat

We absolutely loved our trip to Turkiey! Ever...
Turkey | Oct 9 - Oct 17, 2026

Ned
Ned B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 24, 2026
We absolutely loved our trip to Turkey! Everything was seamless - transfers, meals, hotels - no problems. Our guides were tremendous- Zekiye in Istanbul, Efe in Cappadocia, and Mr. Ozan in Izmir. Zekiye whizzed us through lines and found wonderful local experiences for us. Efe gave us excellent historical context, and Ozan's enthusiasm for his home city and the historical sites was infectious. Every minute of this trip was a delight - we are already talking about returning to Turkey soon! Read more

We absolutely loved our trip to Turkey! Everything was seamless - transfers, meals, hotels - no problems. Our guides were tremendous- Zekiye in Istanbul, Efe in Cappadocia, and Mr. Ozan in Izmir. Zekiye whizzed us through lines and found wonderful local experiences for us. Efe gave us excellent historical context, and Ozan's enthusiasm for his home city and the historical sites was infectious. Every minute of this trip was a delight - we are already talking about returning to Turkey soon!

Activity Reviews
Discover Priene: A beautiful ancient Ionian town
Discover Priene: A beautiful ancient Ionian town
Turkey

Mr. Ozan brought us to this hidden gem... what an incredible spot with glorious Greek ruins! I can't believe more people weren't clamoring to see this amazing site!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kaymaklı Underground City
Kaymaklı Underground City
Cappadocia

What a fascinating place! Efe showed us all the best spots and navigated the nooks and crannies beautifully.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Cappadocia

Wow - that's all I can say. We were speechless throughout this amazing ride through the cliffs and valleys of Cappadocia. The ride was exceptionally well organized and run - we had the most precise landing on a small trailer and the coffee and pastries before takeoff and the champagne after landing were a wonderful touch. Truly we were in awe the entire time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul
Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul
İstanbul

Zekiye was the best guide! She zipped our way through the city - her knowledge helped us quickly navigate crowds and find wonderful local experiences.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 26, 2026

Thanks, Ned, for this positive review!
We are happy to see you had a great time in Turkey. Thanks for choosing us as your travel companion.
Warm regards,
Berat

12 Days in Turkey - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
Turkey | Oct 6 - Oct 18, 2026

Steven
Steven K.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 19, 2026
All of our guides, we had 4, were very helpful, they were especially helpful negotiating around weather and certain locations where there was mass tourism. The trip was well laid out and planned. Our contact in Turkey kept us up to date about each step of the way. We knew each tour guide, driver, including telephone numbers, as well as well as license plate numbers of drivers car. The hotels selected were all very good, with good locations. Well done. Read more

All of our guides, we had 4, were very helpful, they were especially helpful negotiating around weather and certain locations where there was mass tourism. The trip was well laid out and planned. Our contact in Turkey kept us up to date about each step of the way. We knew each tour guide, driver, including telephone numbers, as well as well as license plate numbers of drivers car. The hotels selected were all very good, with good locations. Well done.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Komana
Bengodi Boutique Hotel
The Bank Hotel
Istanbul
Millstone Cave Suites
Gullu Konaklari Sirince
Izmir
Perlacia Adatepe Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room not up to snuff. Bathroom tiny.
Activity Reviews
Crossing between Continents: Explore Kadıköy and Moda
Crossing between Continents: Explore Kadıköy and Moda
İstanbul

Lovely experience

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Ceramic Tradition in Avanos + Light Hiking in the Love Valley
Cappadocia

Very lovely tour through facility, but not into buying.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Troy: Explore Homer's Epic City
Troy: Explore Homer's Epic City
Turkey

Amazing history

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise
Cappadocia

Poor weather. Balloon ride canceled. We hiked thru the valley in place of ride.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul
İstanbul
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
İstanbul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 20, 2026

Thanks, Steven, for this positive review!

We are happy to see you had a great time in Turkey. Thanks for choosing us as your travel companion.

Warm regards,
Berat

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.