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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.

See more Turkey tours & itineraries

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....

Read more about planning your time in Turkey

Turkey Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
See more Turkey travel advice

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.

See all Turkey content

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
See all Turkey maps

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Turkey
Travel specialist Berat Ornek
active 39 mins ago

Berat Ornek

Having worked in the museum sector for quite some time, I have honed my skills in creating valuable experiences for visitors who want to explore a new collection of artifacts, a cultural site or a...

read more...
Travel specialist Murat Ornek
active 4 hours ago

Murat Ornek

Thanks to my Turkish and Guatemalan family spread around the world, when I was younger traveling was all about visiting relatives in different countries. Since my early 20s I have been doing trips...

read more...
Travel specialist Zehra Alper
active 3 days 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 Burcu Kisakurek
active 1 day ago

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...
See all Turkey travel agents

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Trip Reviews for Turkey

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Perfect Trip to Turkey
Turkey | Oct 13 - Oct 24, 2025

Catherine
Catherine S.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Oct 31, 2025
Berat collected information about what was important to us and then planned an amazing 12 days in Turkey. She took the work and worry out of trip planning. Every detail was executed without a hitch, including pickups, hotel stays, private guide, meal reservations, and activities. Our guide, Volcan, helped us to understand the long history of Turkey and the many sites we visited from Istanbul to Cappadocia to Konya to Pamukkale. He demonstrated a profound understanding and communicated easily. Read more

Berat collected information about what was important to us and then planned an amazing 12 days in Turkey. She took the work and worry out of trip planning. Every detail was executed without a hitch, including pickups, hotel stays, private guide, meal reservations, and activities. Our guide, Volcan, helped us to understand the long history of Turkey and the many sites we visited from Istanbul to Cappadocia to Konya to Pamukkale. He demonstrated a profound understanding and communicated easily.

Hotel Reviews
Mövenpick Izmir
Izmir

A large hotel, one block from the water, near many restaurants, and a short walk to city sites. We were welcomed with alacrity.

Authenticity & Character
This is a large hotel that so less about character and more about functionality, which is fine.
Location
Ocean in front and city everywhere.
Staff
Our check in was thorough and welcoming.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super clean room and common areas. Heating system was turned on and air conditioning was turned off, so the room was warm despite open window.
Doğa Thermal Hotel & Spa
Denizli

Pamukkale’s draws visitors to thermal waters and ancient ruins. The Doğa Hotel was located nearby and had pools for guests.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The sites are a short drive away.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Novotel Konya
Konya

Standard large hotel on the outskirts of Konya.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Taskonaklar Cappadocia
Nevsehir

The decor of this hotel was more like a gorgeous curated home. With an entry, spacious bathroom, and bedroom with a sitting area, it was enormous. Breakfast was authentic Turkish cuisine, delicious. Staff gave us tips on where to eat nearby.

Authenticity & Character
Turkish rugs and decor and local building materials made this hillside hotel fit into the local landscape.
Location
What a view of the Pigeon Valley!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Bank Hotel
Istanbul

The Bank Hotel is in a former bank building on the financial street, so it has lots of character and it is beautifully designed and decorated inside. The location allowed easy proximity to many areas in the city. The room was comfortable and the breakfast was delicious. Staff was attentive.

Authenticity & Character
Lovely details throughout the hotel: high ceilings, crown moldings, original elevators and staircases.
Location
Many areas were within walking distance and the above ground train to The Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar was nearby.
Staff
Front desk, dining room, housekeeping, and doormen were friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Visit Zeyrek Cinili Hamam: Relaxing Turkish Bath + Beautiful Museum
Visit Zeyrek Cinili Hamam: Relaxing Turkish Bath + Beautiful Museum
İstanbul

Organized and thorough bathing experience. My skin was smooth and moisturized afterwards. The refurbished building is gorgeous.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our driver took us from the hotel to the hamam and back. He was on time and knew his way around the city.
Transport
Clean van.
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
Explore the Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia
İstanbul

A trip to Istanbul would be incomplete without a visit to these sites. The above ground train got us there easily and our guide, Volcan, gave us the history of the place as well as key spots for pictures. A nearby restaurant was suggested and it was delicious.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Volcan was a wealth of information.
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Photo taken by Catherine S
Photo taken by Catherine S
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 31, 2025

Dear Catherine,
Many thanks for your review, we appreciate it! So glad to hear you had a great time in Turkey with us. We look forward to hosting you in the future for a second round!
Best,
Berat

Read all Turkey reviews

Turkey
Turkey | Oct 8 - Oct 21, 2025

A
Ada H.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Oct 24, 2025
Thank you very much for your kind message and for organizing such a wonderful trip. My experience in Turkey was truly exceptional, and I would like to express my sincere appreciation for our guides — Cihan, Ugur, and Zebned — who made the journey so enriching and enjoyable. Their professionalism, deep knowledge of Turkey’s history and culture, and genuine care for every detail made each moment memorable. I am truly grateful for their dedication and the excellent service provided throughout... Read more

Thank you very much for your kind message and for organizing such a wonderful trip. My experience in Turkey was truly exceptional, and I would like to express my sincere appreciation for our guides — Cihan, Ugur, and Zebned — who made the journey so enriching and enjoyable.

Their professionalism, deep knowledge of Turkey’s history and culture, and genuine care for every detail made each moment memorable. I am truly grateful for their dedication and the excellent service provided throughout the trip.

Warm regards,
Ada Morales

Hotel Reviews
The Marmara Pera
Istanbul
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Swissôtel Resort Bodrum Beach
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
LaVista Boutique Hotel & Spa - Boutique Class
Kusadasi
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Divan Cave House Hotel
Nevsehir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Celal Sultan Hotel
İstanbul
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Zehra Alper
Read all Turkey reviews

Exceptional planning and guides made our trip to Turkey unforgettable
Turkey | Oct 2 - Oct 11, 2025

Janine
Janine F.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Oct 22, 2025
Our trip to Turkey was absolutely amazing! Berat and Murat ensured that every detail of our itinerary was perfectly planned and executed. We were in great hands from start to finish. Sumer, Alp, and Zekiye were incredibly knowledgeable about each site we visited. Their insights brought the history and culture of Turkey to life, and we learned so much from them. On top of that, they were all so kind, gracious, and welcoming—it was a true pleasure getting to know them. Turkey is a... Read more

Our trip to Turkey was absolutely amazing! Berat and Murat ensured that every detail of our itinerary was perfectly planned and executed. We were in great hands from start to finish.

Sumer, Alp, and Zekiye were incredibly knowledgeable about each site we visited. Their insights brought the history and culture of Turkey to life, and we learned so much from them. On top of that, they were all so kind, gracious, and welcoming—it was a true pleasure getting to know them.

Turkey is a stunning country with so much to offer, and thanks to this incredible team, our experience was unforgettable. We’re already looking forward to our next visit!

Hotel Reviews
Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
Fatih Istanbul

Don’t stay in one of the mansions near the trolly tracks.. loud.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Olympos Mountain Lodge

Unique experience

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Akra Antalya Hotel
Antalya

Loud at night.. but beautiful location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Argos in Cappadocia
Nevsehir

Amazing hotel!! Beautiful and impeccable service.

Authenticity & Character
S
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Turkish Bath and Spa at Hürrem Sultan Hammam
Turkish Bath and Spa at Hürrem Sultan Hammam
İstanbul

Do this!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Oct 22, 2025

Dear Janine,
Many thanks for this positive review! We appreciate your valuable feedback and are happy to hear you had a great time in Turkey.
Thanks for choosing us as your travel companions and we look forward to hosting you here again.
Best,
Berat

Read all Turkey reviews
See more trip reviews by kimkim travelers

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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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.

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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.

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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.