Istanbul and the Bosphorus in Turkey

Destination guide

Turkey

Istanbul, Cappadocia, classical ruins and the Aegean coast create a journey between continents, cultures and landscapes.

At a glance

Why Turkey belongs on a considered itinerary

Turkey offers far more than one city break. Istanbul introduces the country’s imperial scale, while Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale and the coast reveal different histories and landscapes.

Domestic flights and private transfers can make a multi-region route practical. A strong itinerary chooses fewer bases and protects time for early starts, guided visits and unhurried evenings.

Practical overview

CapitalAnkara
LanguageTurkish
CurrencyTurkish lira
Travel characterImperial cities, archaeology, landscapes and coast

Historical context

Layers of history, still visible today

Anatolia has been home to Hittite, Greek, Roman and Byzantine civilizations. Constantinople became the capital of the Byzantine Empire and later of the Ottoman Empire after 1453.

The Republic of Turkey was founded in 1923. Today, Ottoman mosques and palaces, classical archaeological sites, modern cities and living regional traditions create a remarkably layered destination.

Places to know

Highlights to consider first

These well-known places form a strong first route. The final order and pace should match your dates and interests.

01

Istanbul

Explore Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, bazaars and the Bosphorus.

02

Cappadocia

Discover rock-cut churches, underground cities, valleys and the region’s distinctive cave hotels.

03

Ephesus

Walk one of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated classical archaeological sites.

04

Pamukkale

Pair the white travertine terraces with the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Trip inspiration

Three ways to begin planning Turkey

Published itineraries link to their full tour pages. Custom concepts link to the destination or tailor-made planning page and are confirmed individually.

Published itinerary

Turkey Itinerary 10 Days

A published route through Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus and Pamukkale.

Custom trip concept

Istanbul and Cappadocia

A custom shorter concept that gives Turkey’s two best-known regions enough time.

Custom trip concept

Aegean and Cultural Turkey

A tailor-made route adding Ephesus, Pamukkale or the coast to an Istanbul stay.

Shape your private Turkey journey

Tell us your dates, priorities and preferred pace. We will help you build the right route.