Turkey Cultural Exploration Tour (8 Days)

Trip Highlights

  • Historic and Modern Istanbul: Visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, experiencing the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and the vibrant city life.

  • Fairy Tale Cappadocia: Explore underground cities, Red Valley, and Pigeon Valley, and witness the beauty of Cappadocia’s unique landscapes.

  • Pamukkale's Natural Marvel: Walk among the white terraces of Pamukkale and explore the ancient city of Hierapolis.

  • Ancient Ruins of Ephesus: Discover the ancient city of Ephesus and the Temple of Artemis, and immerse yourself in ancient history.

Reference Itinerary

Time

Itinerary

Day 1

  • Istanbul Arrival

Day 2

  • Visit Hippodrome, Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar

Day 3

  • Fly to Cappadocia, visit Imagination Valley and the panoramic view of Goreme.

Day 4

  • Discover the underground cities, Red Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Love Valley, and view Uchisar Castle

Day 5

  • Drive to Pamukkale, visit the Mevlana Museum.

Day 6

  • Explore Pamukkale and Ephesus, visit the ancient city, Pamukkale Terraces, and the Temple of Artemis.

Day 7

  • Return to Istanbul,enjoy a Bosphorus cruise

Day 8

  • Head Home and conclude the tour.


*The schedule may be adjusted according to weather, participant numbers, and conditions at the destination. Final details will be confirmed before departure to ensure a smooth and safe trip

International Travel Notes

1.Weather:

Turkey has a combination of Mediterranean and continental climates, with variations depending on the region.

Summer (June to September): Daytime temperatures usually range between 30°C and 35°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to around 20°C to 25°C. In inland areas such as Cappadocia, there can be a significant temperature difference between day and night.

Winter (December to February): Daytime temperatures are around 10°C to 15°C, and nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C to 5°C. Snow is possible in inland regions like Cappadocia.


2.Time Difference:

Turkey operates on Eastern European Time (EET, UTC+3) and is 5 hours behind Hong Kong. Turkey follows the same standard time year-round with no daylight saving time.


3.Cuisine:

Turkish cuisine is diverse, featuring grilled meats, stews, seafood, and bread. Common dishes include Turkish kebabs, lamb stews, and a variety of vegetable dishes. Popular desserts include Turkish delight and baklava. Don't miss trying Turkish tea and coffee, which are staples of the local culture.


4.Language:

Turkish is the official language. In major tourist areas, English is commonly spoken.


5.Currency:

The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the official currency. In some tourist areas, U.S. dollars or euros may be accepted. The exchange rate should be checked on the day of departure.

Itinerary notes

1. Accommodation and Safety Precautions

  • Toiletries: While Turkish hotels generally provide basic toiletries, it is recommended to bring a full set of personal toiletries (e.g., toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, body wash) for comfortable use.

  • Medications: Bring commonly used medications (e.g., cold medicine, pain relievers, stomach medicine) and any special medications you may need. It's also helpful to carry some band-aids for emergencies.

  • Clothing: Turkey has diverse climates with significant temperature differences between winter and summer. Pack according to the season——short sleeves and light jackets for summer, and warm clothing for winter. As there are many outdoor attractions, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

  • Other Items: It's advisable to bring rain gear (e.g., umbrella or lightweight raincoat), as well as slippers, a travel folding hanger, and a small amount of laundry detergent.


2. Communication and Internet

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and some public places in Turkey, but the signal may be unstable. It is recommended to purchase a local Turkish SIM card or activate international roaming services before departure for communication and internet access.


3.Cash and Credit Cards:

The primary currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY), though U.S. dollars and euros may be accepted in some tourist areas. Most stores and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard, and in some regions, UnionPay may be accepted. It's advisable to carry a small amount of cash for minor expenses and keep your belongings secure, avoiding the display of large amounts of cash.



3.Voltage and Power Adapters:

The voltage in Turkey is 220V, and the plug type is the European two-round-pin plug (Type C or F). It's recommended to bring a suitable power adapter to ensure your devices can be used properly.