Highlights of Turkey
From the whimsical turrets of Cappadocia's sand-stone rock-dwellings and underground cities to the time-forgotten villages of the Lycian Way and the breathtaking scenery of the Turquoise Coast, our small group tours to Turkey will create memories to last a lifetime. Here are just a few of the highlights from our adventure holidays to Turkey.
Cappadocia
Transport yourself to a fairytale land of cone-shaped rock dwellings on our two-week Turkey Discovery Tour. Duck your head as you descend into a myriad of subterranean caverns and tunnels that once formed Kaymakli Underground City. This otherworldly city was built by Christians escaping Arab oppression and was home to over 3,500 people. This troglodyte cave-metropolis is one of the largest of 34 similar excavations in Cappadocia, and, even now, some of the grottoes are still used as hotels, storage areas, stables and cellars.
Turquoise Coast
Turkey’s sun-drenched Turquoise Coast is renowned for its glistening aquamarine waters and golden sandy beaches. Glide through the reeds of the Koycegiz River on a riverboat trip to view the rock-cut tombs of ancient Caunos and look out for loggerhead turtles bobbing on the water’s surface on our Highlights of Turkey Tour. Hop on a bike on our Cycle Turkey trip and ride along the shores of beautiful Lake Koycegiz. Or make a splash on our Turkey Activity Holiday with a sea kayaking trip to the eerie sunken city of Kekova. Rise early to avoid the crowds and have the tranquil bay to yourselves before paddling through a labyrinth of rocks alongside the shoreline necropolis of Teimiusa.
Lycian Way
Follow your local tour leader for a walking trip along the Lycian Way on our Turkey Hiking Tour. From stunning vistas of glistening turquoise blue waters and golden sandy beaches to time-forgotten ancient villages and age-old relics from a bygone era, there is plenty to see along this spectacular coastal trail. Explore the deserted streets of ghostly Kayakoy, peer over limestone cliff tops for far-reaching views across the ocean, hike through lush pine forests and open farmland, swim in the calm waters of Patara Beach and kick-back in a waterfront cafe in the beautiful port of Kas.
Solo travel in Turkey
Our small group trips to Turkey are popular with couples, friends and solo travellers alike. Everyone who travels with us is looking for a fun and authentic adventure so whether you’re travelling alone, with friends or with family, you’ll most likely make friends along the way. Your local tour leader will ensure you see all of the must-see sights and well as the lesser-known hidden gems of Turkey during the trip and they’ll also look after all of the every-day logistics.
Best time to go to Turkey
Turkey is a year-round destination. But, as a large country, the seasons can vary significantly from north to south and between coastal and inland areas.
Discovery Tours
Typically, the best time to visit Turkey for cultural and discovery tours is in late spring/early summer and September. These months boast beautifully warm yet comfortable temperatures that are perfect for swimming in the glistening turquoise seas. You’ll also benefit from fewer tourists in the cities and at popular ancient sites. Even Winter on the Turquoise Coast can be comfortable for swimming, and this coastline is temperate year-round with drops of snow on the tops of the mountains.
Multi-Activity and Family Tours
For blazing hot summer days, travel to Turkey’s sun-drenched Turquoise Coast in June, July or August. Temperatures can soar into the late 30°C’s, but sea breezes will make it feel cooler. Feel the sun on your back as you kayak around craggy inlets on our
Turkey activity holiday and take a refreshing dip in the warm, crystal-clear waters of a deserted bay.
Cycling and Walking Tours
April, May, September and October are great times to visit Turkey if you’re joining one of our Cycling or Walking tours. The temperatures are a bit cooler, so Spring and Autumn are perfect for exploring by bike or on foot. Follow quiet, dusty trails along the
Lycian Way for stunning vistas of glistening turquoise blue waters and golden beaches. Or join our
Cycle Turkey trip to pedal through deserted rural farmland and uncover ancient ruins without the crowds.