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Available: 7+ spaces

Secure your place on this program with a $350 deposit. Final payment is due 60 days before departure.

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      We are also offering this program on June 26–July 10 and July 6–20.

      • Hotels: Standard Class

      • 06/22/2025 - 07/06/2025

      • Max Participants: 15

      • 15 Days / 14 Nights

      Overview

      Turkey combines history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture. Begin your trip roaming the palaces and mosques of Istanbul before journeying into the bizarre as you explore otherworldly Cappadocia. From the amazing white cliff frozen waterfalls of Pamukkale to the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, Turkey will burn brightly in your memory long after you've left this crossroads of Asia and Europe. Visit Turkey with us, all while earning professional development credit with other educators.

      What's Included:
      • Istanbul city walking tour
      • Dinner with Local Family in Çavuşin
      • Visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum
      • Underground city exploration
      • Catalhoyuk neolithic city visit
      • Güneysinir Community Park visit
      • Turkish Village Homestay in Güneysınır
      • Afternoon boat trip (Mediterranean sea, weather permitting)
      • Ancient Hierapolis and Pamukkale entrance and guided walk
      • Ephesus entrance and visit
      • Çöp(m)adam handicraft workshop visit
      • Ottoman mansion stay
      • Troy entrance and guided visit
      • Gallipoli battlefields entrance and guided visit
      • G Adventures Tour Leader throughout and local guides
      • 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners – allow $275-$360 USD for meals not included
      • Hotels (13 nts), simple village homestay (1 nt)
      • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities by private air-conditioned van, boat
      What's Not Included:
      • International air travel
      • Incidentals
      • Travel health and cancellation insurance
      • Applicable visas
      • Tips or gratuities
      • Airport taxes
      • Beverages
      • Meals not mentioned in itinerary
      • Optional tours and admission tickets
      • Airport transfers

      Itinerary Download PDF

      You may arrive in İstanbul at any time today. The main international airport is Istanbul Airport (IST), but many airlines also use Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). We highly recommend arriving in Istanbul a day or two early to fully explore this amazing city. This will also give you time to adjust to the time difference, overcome any jet lag, and avoid any disruption to your trip due to flight delays or cancellations. We can book extra hotel nights for you in Istanbul before and/or after the trip, as well as an Istanbul day tour and Bosphorus cruise. Hotel Check-in and Welcome Meeting Please note that check-in at the hotel is usually around 2:00-3:00 p.m. There are no planned activities until an intro meeting around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m., usually in the hotel lobby. Check for a sign or ask at the reception desk about the exact time and location of the group meeting. Please make every effort to arrive in time for this meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your tour leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up tomorrow. After the meeting, you might choose to get dinner at a nearby restaurant with your traveling companions and your tour leader to further get to know one another. Joining Instructions A metered taxi from Istanbul Airport to the hotel will cost around: - Yellow Taxi: 850-1000 TL (around 30-35 USD) - Turquoise Taxi: 950-1100 TL (around 35-40 USD) - Black Luxury Taxi: 1200-1400 TL (around 40-50 USD) - Shuttle Bus: 60-70 TL (around 4-5 USD) It is possible to take the shuttle bus "HAVAIST" from the Istanbul Airport to the old city. The closest HAVAIST stop to our hotel is BEYAZIT (The area closed between 09:00 - 21:00 hrs so you will be dropped at Aksaray 1 further tram stop then Beyazit). Our hotel is around a 20-25 min walk from BEYAZIT SQUARE (30-35 Minutes walk from Aksaray). From BEYAZIT SQUARE, you can follow the tram line and walk through CEMBERLITAS, SULTANAHMET, and GULHANE tram stops. After the GULHANE tram stop, you will see the tram line is making a left. But you will need to continue walking straight and follow TAYA HATUN SOKAK to the end. Once you reach the end, a new street starts to the left, called ISTASYON ARKASI SOKAK. The hotel will be on this street, on your left after the Police Station. You can find the bus schedule from here https://www.hava.ist/en If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, drivers are Istanbul Airport are no longer permitted to present branded/company signs. At Istanbul Airport (IST), G Adventures has been allocated characters "M55." Since welcoming staff are not allowed to the airport, to get to M55, you need to exit the airport from GATE 14. If you are arriving to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW), G Adventures has been allocated characters "M55," and they will be waiting under column number 13 after exit. The holder of this sign will be responsible for transferring you to your first accommodation. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please call the emergency number. Accommodation: Golden Horn Sirkeci Istanbul (or similar) * For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

      Enjoy an orientation walk of Istanbul. Each walk varies, allowing your tour leader to show off their favorite spots around the city. Pass by city highlights such as the Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia (also known as the Aya Sofya), and the Blue Mosque. Walks may also include the atmospheric Spice Bazaar or breathtaking Grand Bazaar. We highly recommend that you actually go inside these sights, which would mean either arriving a few days early or staying a few days after the tour ends. Istanbul is a safe, tourist-friendly city. In the afternoon we will travel to Bolu, a small city where we will stop for the night to break up the long drive to Cappadocia. Approximate travel time: 4 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Soylu Hotel Bolu (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      We will continue our drive east with a stop along the way to visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the father of the Modern Turkish Republic. The Mausoleum of Atatürk is located in Turkey's capital city, Ankara, and has become one of the sprawling city's must-see locations. Later in the afternoon, we will arrive in the region of Cappadocia where we will spend the next two and a half days exploring. There will be plenty of time to tour the area by bike, visit neighboring villages, trek regional valleys, or try a hot air balloon ride. During one of the evenings, travel to a nearby village and enjoy dinner with a local family. Enjoy seasonal homemade dishes, and talk with friendly hosts about life in rural Cappadocia. Approximate travel time: 5.5 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Grand Uchisar Hotel Cappadocia (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      This morning we will visit the historic Göreme Open Air Museum, a complex of medieval painted cave churches carved out by Orthodox monks. Tour the more than 10 caves on site, and enjoy the color and vibrancy of many of the churches that are up to 1,000 years old. The rest of your day is free for optional activities, which are listed further below on this page. Outdoor enthusiast? Hire a bike to get around on two wheels or join your tour leader on an optional trekking tour through one of the beautiful valleys of the region. If you want to go further afield, take a local bus to explore nearby villages. Accommodation: Grand Uchisar Hotel Cappadocia (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      You will have another free day to explore the many sights of Cappadocia. Accommodation: Grand Uchisar Hotel Cappadocia (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Depart Cappadocia to the town of Derinkuyu. Here we visit one of the underground cities (there are approximately 30 in the region) that were famously used as hiding places for Christians escaping the persecution of the Roman Empire between the fifth and tenth centuries. See how people transferred their surface lives to this underground world – there are cellars, rooms for food storage, kitchens, churches, stables, wine and oil presses, and shafts for ventilation. Have a quick lunch before journeying to the region of Konya. In Konya, opt to visit the Mevlana Museum and the mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic, to learn more about the mystic Islamic sect known as the Whirling Dervishes. We will then visit the Neolithic proto-city settlement of Catalhoyuk. There are no streets, and houses are closely clustered with rooftop access for travel. Witness the cultural evolution from the first settlers in 7500 BC to the remnants of the urban center we see today. We'll then continue our drive to our village homestay where we will have the opportunity to learn about local Turkish life. We will first visit the Güneysinir Community Park. Located in a region prone to drought and economically-dependent on agriculture, Güneysinir is in need of diversified opportunities. Our partner G Adventures is investing in an almond plantation that doubles as a community park. While the park will be a beautiful place for travelers and locals to visit, it will also provide a source of shade and water retention, as well as a reliable source of income for the community. Afterward, enjoy a home-cooked meal before settling down for the night. Bathroom facilities and sleeping arrangements are multi-share. Approximate travel time: 4-4.5 hrs, including stops Accommodation: Konya Village Stay (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      We will start off early and arrive in Antalya around lunchtime. With a free afternoon, wander the charming cobbled hillside streets of the district of Kaleici, a great place to stop and have a drink with amazing views of the marina below. For a break from the hustle and bustle, head for the greenery and teashops at one of Antalya's beautiful parks or catch some sun at a nearby beach. Approximate travel time: 5 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Gurtas Hotel Antalya (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Spend the afternoon onboard a boat in the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner before disembarking the boat and driving to our hotel for the evening. Drive to the beautiful coastal village of Demre for lunch. After, board our boat for an afternoon on the Mediterranean Sea. The boat trip includes sailing around Kekova Island, with plenty of time to enjoy the sunshine and scenery. We'll have the chance to get off the boat and climb a hill to reach a medieval castle used by the Byzantines in Simena, a beautiful ancient city that dates back to the fourth century BC. Find ruins of a Roman settlement, including a small amphitheater. Take a few moments to look out at the gorgeous view of the quiet harbor below. Later, walk to Simena Castle to enjoy the views and archaeological ruins. Then opt to go for a swim in the crystal clear waters or just relax on deck. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle Accommodation: Kekova Hotel Kas (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

      Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Opt for a morning swim and some relaxation before returning to Demre and continuing on to the coastal town of Kaş. Spend some time in the afternoon exploring the cafés lining the cobblestoned streets of Kaş. Approximate travel time: 45 minutes by private vehicle Accommodation: Kekova Hotel Kas (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Leave the beautiful sea behind and head to Pamukkale, passing through fruit orchards on the way. Tour the white cliffs of Pamukkale to learn about this World Heritage-listed site and natural wonder. Made up of 17 hot water springs, the cliffs are formed when the calcium carbonate hardens with time. Explore the ancient site of Hierapolis built on top of the white "castle." See the large, ancient baths within the city (thought to be evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the second century BC). Later, opt to visit the Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, which is filled with works of art from excavations at Hierapolis and towns in the surrounding area, such as jewelry, sarcophagi and Bronze Age crafts. You might also choose to Take a plunge into an ancient swimming pool, preserved from the second century BC. Wade around in the thermally heated fresh mineral water around fallen marble columns, capitals, and plinths said to have come from the nearby Temple of Apollo. Kick back and relax, but don't forget admission is limited to two hours. Please bring a swimsuit if you wish to take part in this activity. Approximate travel time: 5 hrs by private vehicle. Accommodation: Anya Resort Hotel Pamukkale (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Journey from Pamukkale to Selçuk in the morning, and then have a free afternoon. Opt to pre-book a traditional Selcuk cooking class, walk to the remains of St John's Basilica, visit the Mosque of Isa Bey or wander the streets of this vibrant Turkish town. Or catch a local “dolmus” bus to the picturesque village of Şirince (8 km) to sample some local wine or shop for crafts. For dedicated sunseekers, the beach at Pamucaki is also within reach. Approximate travel time: 3 hrs by private vehicle. Accommodation: Cenka Hotel Selcuk (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      In the morning, tour the ruins of ancient Ephesus to get a feeling of what life must have been like during Roman times. Take in its massive, well-preserved theatre, which dominates the view down Harbour Street. See the two- story library, whose façade has been carefully reconstructed from all original pieces. Built in AD 125, it once held nearly 12,000 scrolls. Your free time is just that — yours. Use the afternoon to explore the area any way you like. Accommodation: Cenka Hotel Selcuk (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Settle in and enjoy the scenery as you travel from Selçuk to Bergama in a private vehicle (2 hrs). In Bergama, Enjoy an informative demonstration of one of the oldest art-forms in Turkish history. Gain a greater appreciation for the labour and workmanship involved in weaving rugs and carpets as you learn about the process. Next, travel from Bergama to Ayvalık (1-1.5 hrs) to participate in your G for Good Moment. At the the G-supported çöp(m)adam handicraft cooperation, all products are made out of recycled goods and by making a purchase it will directly support the local women who work in the workshop and over time has contributed to over 500 women who have been part of the project. After that, stop of to see historic Troy before ending the day in the port city of Çanakkale. Troy, made famous by Homer’s “Iliad,” (and more recently by Orlando Bloom and Brad Pitt). Tour the city that, for centuries, was regarded as just a myth, until its ruins were found in the mid-19th century. Don't miss the chance to have a photo taken with the Trojan horse. Finally, continue on to the port city of Çanakkale (approximately 45 min.). Approximate travel time: 6-6.5 hrs by private vehicle (with stops) Accommodation: Bogaz Hotel Canakkale (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      Travel by ferry to the Gallipoli peninsula, where we will have an early morning guided tour of the site of a dramatic series of World War I battles. Tour the grounds to see ANZAC Cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Learn how the Turks fought off the numerically superior, but badly commanded, Allied forces who were forced to withdraw nine months later; this battle holds special significance for Australians and New Zealanders, as both nations lost many soldiers. Afterward, continue on to İstanbul for the opportunity to finish up your sightseeing or get in some last-minute shopping. Approximate travel time: 5 hrs total via ferry (30 mins) and private vehicle (4.5 hrs) Accommodation: Golden Horn Sirkeci Istanbul (or similar) Meals included: Breakfast

      There are no planned activities today, so you may depart Istanbul at any time. If you wish to extend your stay in Istanbul, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please note that check-out time from the hotel is usually mid-morning, but luggage storage services are available at the reception desk. Want more adventure? Book two or more GEEO programs in the same school year and receive a discount! GEEO will give you 10% off of the lesser value program(s) (up to 3 programs per year). If you would like to extend your time abroad but don't see another GEEO program that interests you, let us know. We can work with you to find a trip from our tour operator’s much larger catalog. Their tours are open to the general public and not designed specifically for educators, but we can still offer you and your travel companions a discounted educator price on any additional tours that you book. Meals included: Breakfast


      *Itinerary Disclaimer: While it is our intention to adhere to the routes described on our website, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The information on our website is a general guide to the tour and region, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

      Details

      Frequently Asked Questions
      Please click here to go to our general FAQ, which has essential information that applies to all of our programs.
      Resources to Learn & Teach about Turkey
      Visit our recommended reading page to see the list of books GEEO recommends reading before your program (this is not required reading). We also have lesson plans and Pinterest boards that may be useful for you as you learn about your destination and prepare to bring lessons back to your classroom.
      Terms and Conditions
      It is very important for you to visit our Terms and Conditions page before signing up for this program.
      GEEO Program Confirmation Process
      We require a minimum of 6 participants for most GEEO programs. We officially confirm that a program will run once at least 8 people have signed up, which provides a margin for individual cancellations. Nearly all GEEO programs ultimately meet this enrollment quota, and in the rare event that a program does not meet the minimum requirement and GEEO cancels the program, we will work with you to find a suitable alternative or provide a refund of your deposit if you prefer. We encourage you to sign up for any program that interests you, and we will notify the entire group once 6 people are booked and again once 8 people are booked. We always emphasize the importance of exercising caution when making non-refundable travel arrangements, especially given the unpredictable nature of travel. For example, we typically recommend booking flights with flexible change/cancellation policies.
      Cancellation policy
      All cancellations must be submitted to GEEO in written form by emailing your request for cancellation to travel@geeo.org. If you do not receive a confirmation that we have received your written cancellation request, please call us at 1-877-600-0105. Verbal cancellation requests will not be honored.
      • If you cancel 60 days or more prior to the start of your program, all your program fee payments will be refunded excluding your $350 deposit, which is kept on file for future use and never expires. (Exception for participants who receive grants from our university partners: To address disruption caused by cancellation from grant recipients, deposits paid by grant recipients are forfeited upon cancellation.)
      • If you cancel between 30 and 59 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive a 50% refund and your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.
      • If you cancel within 30 days prior to the start of your program, you will receive no refund, but your deposit will be kept on file for future use and will never expire.

      Trip Notes & Expectations
      Before you decide to travel to with GEEO, it is important that you read all of the information about the program contained on this page. Our programs are quite adventurous, and we find that clients who read the trip details in full are happier with their experiences.
      1. ACCOMMODATION: On this trip, you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: Some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff, but most importantly, all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations. Below are details on some of our unique accommodation experiences on this itinerary. Day 6 Village Stay: During our village stay, we aim for you to experience local family life. We use two houses, with a shared bathroom and each bedroom sleeping up to three people. All bedding is provided. In the evening, we gather to enjoy a meal of fresh, local produce, with the menu dependent on what is in season. Day 12 Ayvalik: Located in a restored Ottoman house, our family-run pension is always a highlight for our travelers. This accommodation has shared bathroom facilities, and some rooms may be multi-share.
      2. TRANSPORTATION: We use a mix of transportation that gets our guests from location to location safely. Sometimes you will have full days and nights of transportation as our trips tend to cover a lot of ground. The transportation will often be an adventure in itself.
      3. TURKISH AIRLINES: If you decide to book a flight with Turkish Airlines, make sure that all connecting flights are through a codeshare partner. This means that the connecting airline is in the Star Alliance. We had multiple people have serious flight issues when they bought a flight with Jet Blue to connect with their Turkish Airlines flight on one ticket. These airlines functionally do not communicate with each other, making booking seats difficult, and if anything goes wrong with your flight, neither will take responsibility for rebooking you.
      4. ACTIVITY LEVEL & PACE: Many of our activities occur in locations where it is very hot during the day. Please make sure you have thoroughly read the itinerary and can handle the group activities. This trip includes light walking and hiking that is suitable for most fitness levels. In the cities, you can split apart from the group to go your own pace. We recommend always carrying snacks with you. Meals can sometimes be far apart.
      5. LUGGAGE: In Turkey, it is less common to find elevators in train stations, hotels, or other public places. We use some public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses, etc. and possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. You should be able to comfortably walk for 10-30 minutes at a time with your luggage. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage that is compact and lightweight. Carrying your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.
      6. GROUP LEADER: Please make sure you understand the role of your tour leader on this trip. All GEEO/G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of G Adventure's group leaders, which they refer to as Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local friends. Our itineraries often have plenty of free time to explore on your own. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it’s the best of both worlds.
      Single Travelers
      Half of GEEO’s participants travel by themselves, so please don’t worry if you do not have a travel companion for your trip. Our program fee is for one traveler in double-occupancy accommodation, and GEEO can find you a roommate of the same gender if you do not have a travel companion. Most of our programs have a “My Own Room” option, also known as a “Single Supplement,” which is an extra fee that you can pay to have a room to yourself. You will only incur an additional charge if you specifically request a single room. To see the price for the “My Own Room” option, please find your program on our extra services page. If you want to room alone, please email travel@geeo.org to request a single room. Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single accommodation for all night stops except Day 6 (local village stay) and Day 12 (Ayvalik).
      Emergency Contacts
      Should you need to contact G Adventures during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call their local G Adventures office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival transfer, it will be arranged based on flight information provided to G Adventures. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, they will do their best to rearrange your arrival transfer, but they cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area, please take a taxi to your hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS Arrival Transfer Company Viport: 90 544 642 80 66 G Adventures Local Representative (Turkey) During office hours: + 90 530 153 45 15 After hours emergency number +447817262559 (Yavuz) G Adventures Turkey Manager - Yavuz (Istanbul Turkey) Emergency number: +441858378000 If you are unable for any reason to contact G Adventures’ local office, they have a toll-free line which will connect you directly with their Toronto office: Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
      Packing List
      Please read this article on GEEO’s blog for our staff’s suggestions on the best gear to pack for your upcoming travels. You must be prepared to carry your own bags and be comfortable carrying them up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels. As a rule, we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 minutes with your bags, which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 22-30 lb. Most travelers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size. No XXL bags please! A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person plus a daypack per person. Suggested Checklist
      • Fleece top
      • Light windproof/waterproof jacket (it is unlikely to rain very much)
      • Sun hat
      • Personal clothing for mild to hot weather (t-shirts, shorts, etc.)—for women, we recommend having at least a few outfits that cover knees and shoulders.
      • Daypack
      • Sturdy walking shoes
      • Bathing suit
      • Travel towel
      • Sport sandals or flip-flops
      • Sunblock
      • Sunglasses
      • Watch or alarm clock (or use your phone)
      • Clothes for religious sites – knees and shoulders must be covered
      • Shawl or scarf- needed for mosque visits, but you can buy in Turkey
      • Toiletries (your hotels will have soap and shampoo)
      • Camera (or use your phone)
      • First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, bandaids, anti-histamine, Dramamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, electrolyte powder, insect repellent, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
      Optional Checklist
      • Lightweight silk sleep sheet
      • Travel pillow
      • Money belt
      • Water bottle
      • Phone/tablet for internet – most hotels have WiFi
      • Chargers for electronics as well as converters/adapters, if needed
      • AirTags or Tile trackers
      • Packing cubes
      • Earplugs
      • Snacks (Packing a few granola bars is a good idea. You can buy snacks when you get there too, so don’t go crazy here.)
      • Ziplock bags for wet clothing
      • Reading/writing material
      • Hand sanitizer/baby wipes
      Document Checklist
      • Passport (with photocopies)
      • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
      • Travel insurance ID card
      • Flight itinerary/boarding pass(es)
      • USD/EUR cash
      • Credit/debit card
      • G Adventures vouchers
      • GEEO Classroom action plans for your group – this is sent a few days before departure
      Laundry
      Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. If you want to do your own laundry, we suggest you bring your own non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
      Passports and Visas
      All GEEO programs require that the participant have a valid passport. Please see our general FAQ for information on obtaining a passport. As with all of our trips, we try to provide the most accurate information we can, but governments sometimes change visa rules. It is your responsibility to double check the information we provide below by searching here. U.S. citizens who are ordinary passport holders (i.e., not diplomatic or service passport holders) are exempted from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Please see more details by visiting the U.S. Department of State website. If your passport was issued in another country, you can check Turkey’s official Ministry of Foreign Affairs site for your specific requirements.
      Money Exchange
      The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Almost all local purchases in Turkey (meals, souvenirs, optional activities, etc) will be paid for in TRY. As currency exchange rates fluctuate, we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. We recommend that you obtain cash from ATMs while traveling; they will dispense the local currency. We do, however, recommend that you bring at least $200 USD in cash for emergency use or in case you have trouble with the ATMs. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops, but you may be charged an international transaction fee; ask your financial institution about their international fees. Please note that if you are carrying U.S. dollars, the bills should be in good condition (i.e., not torn, wrinkled, or marked on in any way) and dated recently.
      Tipping
      It is customary to leave a small tip for service providers, such as waiters, if you are pleased with the service. Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of this program and an expression of satisfaction with the people who assist you on your trip. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There will be opportunities during the trip to tip your local guides or drivers. You may do this individually, or your tour leader may offer to collect the money and give a tip on behalf of the group. Ask your tour leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and expectations. Also, at the end of your program, if you felt your G Adventures tour leader did an outstanding job, a tip would be appreciated. Tipping amounts are entirely your personal preference, but as a guideline:
      • Service providers/Waiters: $1-2 USD for snacks or 10% of a meal bill
      • Local guides and drivers: $15-20 USD per person per week
      • Tour Guide (CEO): $40-45 USD per person per week
      Vaccinations
      GEEO cannot provide any medical advice, so it is very important to consult your doctor or a travel clinic about which vaccinations you will need for your trip. We recommend contacting Passport Health (http://www.passporthealthusa.com/), which has travel clinics located throughout the United States. You can also check the CDC's recommended vaccinations for your destination. Please take this seriously!
      Flights
      We find the best prices for flights are often available around 90-120 days before departure, but of course this varies greatly from route to route and year to year. You should wait until this trip is confirmed before you book non-refundable flights. GEEO and G Adventures bear no responsibility for any flights purchased before the trip is confirmed. This program begins and ends in Istanbul. Please double-check our itinerary for the date by which you must arrive in Istanbul. You may want to arrive in Istanbul one or more days early in case you have flight disruptions. You can arrive at any time you choose, but try to make it in time for our 6:00 p.m. Welcome Meeting on Day 1. You can depart from Istanbul any time on the final day of the program.
      Plugs and Converters
      There are two components to provide external power to your device: adapters and transformers (also called electrical converters). The adapter is for your device's plug, adapting the prongs on a standard U.S. two- to three-pronged power cord to fit the local outlets. The transformer/converter changes the local voltage to the voltage used in the U.S. Turkey uses a European-style Type C plug with two circular prongs, and the voltage is 230 Volts. (Standard U.S. electrical outlets are 120V.) Most new devices, including phones and laptops, are made to work with the different voltage rates, but some devices, like hair dryers, may only work on the U.S. standard of 120V. Check your device's plug or manual to see what voltage range it requires. Most transformer blocks will have an “Input” line that defines its voltage capacity; for example, “Input: 100-240V” means that it will work with voltages between 100V to 240V. If your device can’t handle the higher voltage, you’ll need to purchase a transformer/converter. You can find world transformers/converters online or at many retail stores in the travel section.
      Weather
      Turkey’s climate varies by region, but summer means hot sunny weather all around. On the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, temperatures will typically be around 80º F, whereas in Cappadocia and other central parts of Turkey, the highs are typically over 100º F.
      Food
      Breakfast: Many breakfasts are included as part of your tour. Turkish breakfasts are very different from your usual cereal and toast morning fare - when was the last time you had olives for breakfast? They pretty much universally consist of large slices of fresh "french style" white bread accompanied by slices of tomato, cucumber, white and yellow cheeses, olives, jam, and honey. This is accompanied by tea (which a Turk would always choose!) or coffee (which is pretty much always instant coffee). You will of course want to sample the famous Turkish coffee, but it is usually taken after a big lunch or dinner, or in the late afternoon with a pastry. While we think these breakfasts are absolutely delicious, some travelers do find them a bit repetitive and enjoy buying market fruit the day before and eating this for breakfast. Lunches: ...will usually be simple and on the run. They are a great chance to try Turkey's delicious and healthy array of "fast foods". This may include, "gozleme", a type of Turkish savory crepe, "chorba", delicious lentil soup, and of course doner kebabs in both beef and chicken varieties. You won't want to miss the chance to try "pide", Turkish pizza, and lahmucan- thin crust pizza you fold greenery into You may also find "kumpir", Turkish stuffed potatoes. Dinner: Most Turks start their dinners with a couple of mezes- small taster dishes such as grilled octopus, aubergine salad, and many more. You could also choose a soup made of fresh local ingredients. Main courses tend to be based around fresh seafood if you are near the coast (expect to pay around 15 lira for a whole fish)or the ubiquitous kebab- skewers of charcoaled meat which comes on bread with salad. There are plenty of variations of the kebab-many regions have their own specialty so be sure to ask your leader. Desserts: Yum- it's all about the sugar. Baklava (about 2 TKL a piece for the good stuff) is something of a national obsession and it is believed the best comes from the East. There are endless varieties of pastries and milk-based deserts available and you are sure to spend at least some time in a Turkish bakery taste testing. Snacks Don't miss munching on a simit, a Turkish pretzel, or perhaps some grilled sweet corn to get you through between meals. Drinks: Tea, served in small tulip glasses, is the number one beverage of choice in Turkey. It is freshly brewed and a tea bag is a rare thing. Turkish coffee is a wonderful thing to try. The national beer is named Efes and is very good (usually 4-5 TKL a bottle) Wine is made in Turkey and is getting better every year. Expect to pay around 6-7 liras for a glass in a restaurant. Water is approximately 1 TRL for a 1.5-liter bottle, soft drinks and juices are around 2-3 TRL. Eating is a big part of traveling. Traveling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally, meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what, and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally, food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your tour leader will be able to suggest your favorite restaurants during your trip.
      🗣️ Advice from Past Travelers
      "I wish I would have utilized a SIM card, but have learned how to do that now for next trip. Also, be prepared for it to be hot- flowy dresses were great to have. Bring a neck pillow for long van rides. When using cabs in Istanbul, negotiate a price upfront or use Uber, if available. Try to limit cab usage and use public transport- it will save you hours of time in traffic." "I worried more about packing than I needed to. Somewhere I had gotten the impression that I should dress conservatively, but that wasn't the case. For almost every day of the trip, I was fine in my typical American shorts/tops and sundresses. Our guide let us know ahead of time the one day we needed to dress more conservatively." "Something to be aware of in terms of packing: Lots of sidewalks are slippery, as are some of the historic sites. I recommend shoes with good grip, such as Chaco sandals or sneakers. I wore tennis shoes that were sturdy but not grippy, and I slipped a few times. (Not badly, but it could be bad for someone with bad knees or something.)"

      Costs

      Please keep in mind that this trip offers some free time to pursue activities that interest you. Make sure you look over all of the optional activities and note these additional costs when deciding whether you can afford this program. The prices below are rough estimates for budgeting your trip.
      • Tour Company Fee: See our price in the top right corner
      • Optional Activities: $200-500 USD
      • International Airfare from the United States: Roughly $800-1,750 USD If you require assistance searching for international flights, we would be happy to help you.
      • Airport Transfers: $50-$100 USD.
      • Insurance: $79-200 USD Please note: It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD. We also strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance as an add-on.
      • Tipping: We recommend $80-90 USD for your tour leader and $30-40 for your driver.
      • Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary: $275-360 USD
      • Laundry, Drinks, Phone Calls, etc.: Make sure you budget for these types of expenses
      • Souvenirs: Variable. At your personal discretion.
      • Vaccines: Variable. Please consult with your primary care provider.
      • Non-Educator Donation: $100 USD (suggested donation) This is only for non-educator guests traveling with an educator on a GEEO trip. Educators and retired educators should not make this donation.

      Optional Activities

      We can book the following activities in advance. Alternative Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise: $90 USD per person Go even deeper into Istanbul, discovering diverse and lesser-visited districts with your tour leader, and some of the best photography spots in the city! Today we will walk along the ancient Constantinople city walls; see Istanbul's best Roman mosaics and frescoes at the Kariye Mosque (formerly the Chora Church); stroll through the photogenic Fener (Greek) and Balat (Jewish) districts, known for their colorful wooden houses; enjoy lunch together; and cruise the Bosphorus Strait for stunning views of Ottoman palaces and the city skyline. Please note: this is a full day (6+ hours) day excursion. Lunch is included. Your tour leader will collect you from the hotel lobby at 9 a.m. Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and modest clothing/coverings for shoulders and upper legs for visiting religious sites. Must be booked in Advance. Contact travel@geeo.org Selçuk Cooking Class: $27 USD per person Visit the nearby village of Selçuk and learn to cook a delicious traditional meal. Starting at the local market, you will learn about the fresh ingredients needed to create an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert! After creating your meal (with potential vegetarian options), sit down and share with the rest of the class. Must be booked in Advance. Contact travel@geeo.org Whirling Dervishes: 20 EUR per person Witness this spellbinding dance-like worship, practiced by followers of the Mevlevilik Sufi order. Must be booked in Advance. Contact travel@geeo.org

      Optional Activities Booked on Location

      Optional activities are booked and paid for locally in the local currency, other than the Alternative Istanbul Walking Tour and Selçuk Cooking Class, which can be purchased before departure. For the rest of these activities, you do not have to decide in advance which ones you would like to sign up for. The prices listed are based on the latest information we have received from our participants and G Adventures, but it may be outdated due to Turkey's recent high annual inflation rates.
      ISTANBUL
      Dolamabahçe Palace: ₺1050 TRY per person Built in the early 1800s, the Dolamabahçe Palace is the largest and the most important palace of the Ottoman Empire, after the Topkapi Palace. Marvel at its grandeur. Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts: ₺390 TRY per person This museum is home to treasures from the Ottoman and Seljuk periods and boasts one of the world's largest collections of Turkish carpets. Great Palace Mosaic Museum: ₺60 TRY per person See the intricate mosaics on display from the Byzantine period, excavated from the site of The Great Palace of Constantinople. Hagia Sophia: €25 EUR per person See the Hagia Sophia, one of the most important and breathtaking icons of ancient Byzantine architecture. The domes and buttresses of the mosque punctuate the skyline of Turkey's capital and stand tall as a symbol of national pride. Non-Muslims must visit outside of prayer times. Topkapi Palace: 1h-2h, ₺1500 TRY per person Take a step back in time with a visit to the Topkapi Palace. Once home to the Ottoman sultans and their harems, it's now a museum hosting a number of collections, ranging from porcelains found in Europe, Asia, and China to Ottoman-era weaponry. Basilica Cistern: ₺600 TRY per person Built in 532 AD, the Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern (underground water storage) of Istanbul. Spot the pillar bases carved in the likeness of Medusa. Istanbul Archaeological Museum: €15 EUR per person Opened in 1891, the Istanbul Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Home to a classical statuary, artifacts, and sarcophagi - including the stunning sarcophagus from the Royal Necropolis of Sidon - this museum presents one of the best opportunities to catch a glimpse into the life of ancient Turks. Galata Tower: ₺ 650 TRY per person Climb up the Galata Tower - one of Istanbul's oldest architectural landmarks - for an amazing panoramic view of the city. To get the full experience, time your visit with the call to prayer that happens at sunset.
      CAPPADOCIA
      Hot Air Balloon Ride (Göreme): €290 EUR per person Cappadocia is captivating from the ground, but that’s just the half of it. See the seemingly hand-painted landscapes of Cappadocia as they deserve to be seen, from the air aboard a hot air balloon. Get up early and enjoy a simple breakfast before climbing in the basket and taking to the skies in one of the most favoured places in the world to experience a hot air balloon ride. Turkish Bath: €50 EUR per person Take along a towel, soap, and shampoo, and enjoy a scrub like no other. Then experience a traditional foam massage, included in the entrance fee. Get some tips from the friendly locals – they’ll show you the correct protocol. Make sure to check the hours as the bathhouses are strictly segregated, usually being used by men in the morning and evenings, and women in the afternoons. Turkish Night: 2h30m-3h, €45 EUR per person Attend a "Turkish night" and enjoy a delicious multi-course meal followed by local entertainment. Pottery Center: 1h-2h, Free Learn more about the infamous local art of pottery making and take advantage of the opportunity to create your own masterpiece. Carpet Demonstration: 1h-2h, Free Enjoy an informative demonstration of one of the oldest art-forms in Turkish history. Gain a greater appreciation for the labor and workmanship involved in weaving rugs and carpets as you learn about the process.
      KONYA
      Mevlana Museum: Free Visit the Mevlana Museum and mausoleum of Mevlana Rumi, a Persian Sufi mystic. Learn more about the mystic Islamic sect known as the Whirling Dervishes.
      ANTALYA
      Antalya Archaeological Museum: 1h-2h, ₺150 TRY per person Take in some culture at the Antalya Museum, home to 13 exhibition galleries. See a wide range of exhibits, including great reconstructions of life under the Ottoman Empire.
      PAMUKKALE
      Hierapolis Archeological Museum: ₺700 TRY per person This museum displays works of art from excavations at Hierapolis and towns in the surrounding area, such as jewelry, sarcophagi, and Bronze Age crafts. Housed within a former Roman Bath and gymnasium, this museum will grab the interest of art, history, and architecture lovers alike. Swim in an Ancient Pool: ₺200 TRY per person
      SELÇUK
      Mosque of Isa Bey: 30m-45m, Free Visit the centuries-old Isa Bey Mosque on the outskirts of Selçuk to see one of the oldest and most impressive works of art remaining in this region. Saint John's Basilica: €6 EUR per person View St John's Basilica, once a grand basilica in Ephesus. Constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century, it was built in where John the Apostle is said to be buried. Şirince Village: 1h-2h Head out to scenic Şirince, a Turkish-Greek village that was settled when Ephesus was abandoned; it’s now 600 strong. Wander the narrow village streets filled with people selling handicrafts, olive oil, and local wine. Selçuk Cooking Class: €25 EUR per person Visit the nearby village of Selçuk and learn to cook a delicious traditional meal. Starting at the local market, you will learn about the fresh ingredients needed to create an appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert! After creating your meal (with potential vegetarian options), sit down and share with the rest of the class.
      AYVALIK
      Ayvalik Boat Tour: 2h-3h, ₺60-600 TRY per person Visit secluded bays, explore a nearby island, and, of course, have plenty of time for just relaxing and swimming in the turquoise waters. Drinks are available on board. Prices vary by season and group size.