Treasures of Turkey, September 2025
From Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast
Duration
15 Days / 14 Nights
Expert Guides & Authentic Connections
Explore Turkey’s storied past and vibrant present with seasoned local guides, gaining deep insight into everything from Istanbul’s cosmopolitan charm to Cappadocia’s timeless cave dwellings.
Handpicked Accommodations & Luxury Gulet
Stay in boutique and cave hotels, then transition to a traditional teakwood gulet for seamless comfort. Enjoy ample space, a dedicated crew, and the soothing rhythms of the Turquoise Coast.
Comprehensive, Worry-Free Travel
Relax as we take care of details like airport transfers, domestic flights, and daily meals. Every aspect—down to private tours of iconic ruins and hidden gems—is handled so you can focus on creating lasting memories.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High (°F) | 57° | 58° | 64° | 68° | 76° | 85° | 92° | 90° | 85° | 88° | 64° | 58° |
| Low (°F) | 43° | 44° | 48° | 50° | 58° | 66° | 73° | 71° | 66° | 59° | 49° | 45° |
| Rain (in) | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 |
Highlights of the Tour
- Discover Istanbul’s Vibrant Blend of East and West: Stroll through lively bazaars and visit architectural gems like Hagia Sophia, soaking in a city where ancient empires once flourished.
- Cruise the Turquoise Coast Aboard a Luxurious Gulet: Unpack once and unwind on a beautifully crafted teakwood yacht with an attentive crew, gliding past secluded coves and azure waters.
- Indulge in Fresh Mediterranean Cuisine: Savor expertly prepared seafood, farm-to-table produce, and classic Turkish dishes—baked breads, savory mezes, and sweet baklava—all tailored to your dietary needs by your private chef.
- Explore Ancient History and Archaeological Wonders: Delve into legendary sites like Ephesus and smaller Hellenistic ruins along the coast, guided by a local expert who unveils the stories behind each landmark.
- Experience Cappadocia’s Otherworldly Landscape: Venture among fairy chimney rock formations, and optionally take flight in a hot air balloon at sunrise for unparalleled views.
- Engage with Authentic Local Culture: Wander through charming villages, meet welcoming locals, and immerse yourself in everyday Turkish life—from sipping tea in a bustling café to learning time-honored cooking techniques.
What is Included?
- 9 Nights Hotel Accommodations
Standard rooms (with some deluxe upgrades) as indicated in the itinerary (or similar) - 5 Nights Aboard a Luxury Turkish Gulet
Traditional wooden boat with dinghy, galley, sundeck, snorkeling gear, and water toys- Air-conditioned cabins with private showers and bathrooms
- Our on-board private cook can address all dietary restrictions
- Meals
14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, and 13 Dinners (with bottled water). Most meals served in restaurants or onboard with a private chef specializing in local cuisine - Soft Beverages Onboard
All local soft drinks included while on the gulet - Daily Wine/Beer Onboard
Two glasses of local wine or two bottles of local beer per person, per day, during the yacht portion - Professional Guidance
English-speaking, licensed local guide throughout the trip - Private, Air-Conditioned Transportation
With a professional driver and fuel included - Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips at included meals - Two Domestic Flights (Economy Class)
Istanbul to Izmir and Cappadocia to Istanbul- 44 lbs checked bag, 17 lbs carry-on allowance on Turkish Airlines or Pegasus
- Complete Tour Program
All entrance fees, admissions, parking fees, baggage handling, and yacht harbor embarkation - Taxes
Includes VAT and a 2% Accommodation Tax
What is Excluded?
- International Airfares
Including airport taxes and fuel surcharges - Alcoholic Beverages
During meals on land and on the yacht (beyond the two daily onboard beers or wines listed above) - Visa (If Applicable)
Some nationalities require a Turkish visa; can be obtained at evisa.gov.tr
(Note: Currently, USA, Canada, and UK citizens are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays up to 90 days within 180 days, but regulations may change.) - Gratuities
To guides, drivers, and gulet crew - Personal Expenses
Such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar costs, etc. - Personal Travel & Health Insurance
I had an absolutely positive experience in Turkey booking a custom trip with Runner Tourism. Mert organized an excellent itinerary for our group of six friends which included the highlights in Istanbul, Ephesus and Cappadocia. He was very thorough with communication and selection of hotels, restaurants, airport transfers, flights, and tickets into sights. Mert and Mehmet were extremely knowledgeable, helpful and delightful as our guides. I highly recommend Runner Tourism!
Our experience with Mert and Runners Tourism far exceeded my expectations. Mert was an absolute delight: knowledgeable, flexible, charming, conscientious, reliable with a great sense of humor. Every minute detail was flawlessly arranged, with plenty of kind reminders to keep us on schedule. When we parted , I felt I was saying goodbye to a very special friend. I can’t imagine a better experience.
