International Multi-day Tour

Turkey Active Adventure

Join Adventurous Women for an immersive two-week journey through Turkey, experiencing the landscapes, legends and living traditions of this fascinating country.

Destination Turkey

Duration 14 Days

Price From $5,840

Departs 03 Oct 2027

Group Size 14 Max

Overview

Explore Turkey with AW

Spend 14 days discovering the many sides of Turkey (Türkiye), from the historic streets of Istanbul to the Mediterranean coast and the extraordinary landscapes of Cappadocia.

The journey takes in some of the country’s most significant highlights, including Gallipoli, Ephesus and the ancient cities of the Aegean, alongside bustling markets, traditional villages and coastal towns. Hiking a section of the Lycian Way and exploring the valleys of Cappadocia on foot add an active element, while a boat trip and plenty of local experiences bring variety along the way.

Travelling overland offers a real sense of the changing landscapes, with a mix of cities, smaller towns and coastal villages. Comfortable accommodation and local guides make this a great introduction to Turkey, combining history, culture, food and active adventure.

Fitness/Walk Grade

This is an active trip, covering a lot of ground over the course of two weeks. You’ll need to be comfortable spending several hours on your feet each day, getting on and off transport and managing your own luggage. There are also a few opportunities for longer walks, although none are technical.

You’ll need to be independently mobile and ready to embrace the adventure with a positive and flexible attitude.

Pack-free hiking - your luggage moves with you
Wineglass Bay sunrise lookout walk
Freycinet National Park kayak with playful seals
Local Tasmanian produce at every meal
Comfortable lodge accommodation, not camping
Small group of like-minded women, max 14

Other- Istanbul grand bazaar — Explore Istanbul’s landmarks and vibrant bazaars

Day 1 Sat 03 Oct Istanbul Arrival

Welcome to Türkiye!

Arrive in Istanbul and settle into your hotel before meeting the group and your Tour Leader at 5:30 pm for a tour briefing and introductions. We’ll then head out for a welcome dinner, your first chance to enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine and get to know your fellow travellers before the adventure begins.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Istanbul

Day 2 Sun 04 Oct Istanbul: Explore the Old City

Today is all about discovering Istanbul’s rich history and culture with our local guide. We’ll explore some of the city’s most celebrated landmarks, including the magnificent Hagia Sophia and the elegant Blue Mosque.

We’ll also visit the Hippodrome, once the social and sporting centre of ancient Constantinople, with plenty of time to take in the sights, hear the stories behind them and experience some of the character that makes Istanbul such a fascinating city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Istanbul

Day 3 Mon 05 Oct Istanbul: Markets and Waterways

Today continues the exploration of Istanbul, with time to discover some of the city’s famous markets and lively waterfront neighbourhoods. There’ll be a chance to wander through the colourful Spice Bazaar and Grand Bazaar, with their maze of shops, stalls and local treasures, as well as explore the streets around Eminönü.

We’ll then take to the Bosphorus on a public boat, enjoying views of Istanbul from the water as we pass between Europe and Asia.

The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Çanakkale

Day 4 Tues 06 Oct Istanbul - Gallipoli- Çanakkale

Leaving Istanbul behind, we travel toward the Gallipoli Peninsula for a guided tour of this deeply significant site. Here we’ll explore the memorials, battlefields and stories that shaped one of the most poignant chapters in Australian and New Zealand history. Our local guide will help bring the past to life, offering insight into the events of 1915 and the enduring spirit of those who served.

We’ll then cross the Dardanelles Strait to Çanakkale. If time allows, we’ll visit the replica Trojan horse used in the movie Troy before heading to dinner.

Distance: Driving time appx 4 hours plus stops

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Çanakkale

Day 5 Wed 07 Oct Çanakkale to Assos to Şirince

Today we leave Çanakkale behind and continue south along Turkey’s Aegean coast, stopping along the way in the ancient seaside town of Assos and visiting a local olive oil factory.

We continue to the charming hilltop village of Şirince, our home for the next two nights. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Şirince is the perfect place to unwind after our long day of travel.

Distance: Driving time appx 6 hours plus stops

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Şirince

Day 6 Thu 08 Oct Şirince: Explore Ephesus

Today we visit one of Türkiye’s most extraordinary archaeological sites: the ancient city of Ephesus. We’ll wander its marble streets and explore the remains of grand temples, theatres and the magnificent Library of Celsus, gaining an insight into life in one of the great cities of the ancient world.

Later, we return to Şirince to explore the village itself with its narrow lanes, stone houses, shops selling handmade crafts and more.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Şirince

Day 7 Fri 09 Oct Şirince- Aphrodisias - Kaş

Our journey continues today, driving south towards the Mediterranean coast. Along the way, we will stop at the ancient city of Aphrodisias. Once an important centre of art and culture, Aphrodisias is renowned for its well- preserved ruins, including its stadium, theatre and Temple of Aphrodite.

After exploring the site, we continue towards Kaş, a beautiful coastal town overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. We’ll settle into our hotel and have the evening free to wander through the atmospheric old town.

Distance: Driving time appx 6 hours plus stops

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Kaş

Day 8 Sat 10 Oct Kaş: Boat trip to Kekova

We explore the spectacular coastline around Kaş from the water, with a boat trip to Kekova, one of the most picturesque areas of the Turkish Mediterranean.

Cruise over crystal-clear waters, discover the sunken city of Kekova and stop for swimming breaks in quiet coves. We’ll return to Kaş in the late afternoon, with the evening free to explore on your own.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Kaş

Day 9 Sun 10 Oct Kaş: Hike on the Lycian Way (12 km)

After breakfast, we head out for a scenic half-day hike along the Lycian Way.
Following the trail through the rugged coastal landscape, we’ll enjoy beautiful views across the Mediterranean before returning to Kaş for the afternoon.

The rest of the day is free to explore the town or by relax by the water.

Hiking Distance: appx 12 km; elevation gain 300 m, elevation loss 330m

Meals: Breakfast, Snacks

Accommodation: Hotel, Kaş

Day 10 Sun 12 Oct Kaş - Antalya: Explore the Old City

After breakfast we leave Kaş and continue along the Mediterranean coast to Antalya. Once we arrive, we’ll explore the city’s historic Old Town, Kaleiçi, on a walking tour with our local guide.

Wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with Ottoman-era houses, historic landmarks and lively cafés as we discover the stories behind this fascinating part of the city. We’ll also see Hadrian’s Gate and the old harbour, with time to take in the atmosphere and enjoy views across the Mediterranean.

After the walking tour, the rest of the day is free to explore Antalya at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Antalaya

Day 11 Mon 13 Oct Antalya - Konya - Cappadocia

We leave the Mediterranean behind and travel inland towards Cappadocia, with a stop in Konya along the way
Known as the spiritual heart of Sufism, Konya is closely associated with the 13th-century mystic and poet Rumi. We’ll visit the Mevlana Museum and learn more about the Sufi tradition and its place in Turkish culture.

From Konya, we continue east towards Cappadocia, arriving in time to settle into our hotel and take in our first views of the region’s extraordinary landscape.

Distance: Driving time appx 6.5 hours plus stops

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Cappadocia

Day 12 Tue 14 Oct Cappadocia: Göreme, Hike Kılıçlar Valley (6km)

Today is all about exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. We’ll start with a visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum, home to a collection of rock-hewn churches dating back to the Byzantine Empire.

After lunch, we’ll explore Cappadocia’s Kılıçlar Valley on foot. This approximately 2.5-hour hike takes us into the heart of the region’s moon-like landscapes before finishing in the village of Çavuşin.

Note: there are two optional activities today - booking and pricing details will be provided a few months before the trip. If you’re up for an early start, there’s the option to take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, floating above the valleys as the sun comes up over the region’s distinctive rock formations.

In the evening, there’s an optional one-hour performance of the Whirling Dervishes at the historic Saruhan Caravanserai, which dates back to 1249.

Distance: Approx. 5.5 km; Grade 2, with a few gentle inclines and some uneven terrain but not technical

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Cappadocia

Day 13 Thu 15 Oct Cappadocia: Underground City - Uçhisar - Wine Tasting - Farewell Dinner

On our final day in Cappadocia, we’ll discover more of the region’s fascinating history and culture. We’ll head underground at Kaymaklı, one of Cappadocia’s remarkable subterranean cities, before continuing to Uçhisar, where we’ll take in the views from this impressive hilltop village.

After lunch, there’ll be an opportunity to enjoy a local wine tasting before visiting Avanos, a town known for its pottery traditions and its location along the Kızılırmak River.

We’ll finish our Cappadocia adventure with a farewell dinner, sharing one last evening together and reflecting on the incredible places we’ve experienced along the way.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Cappadocia

Day 14 Fri 16 Oct Cappadocia - Departure day

There are no scheduled activities or services included today, so you may depart at your convenience.

Meals: Breakfast

Important Notes

Every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as planned, but please remember this is adventure travel and conditions can change unexpectedly. Weather, road conditions, vehicle issues, or the health of fellow travelers may require adjustments. We’ll do our best to keep things on track, but a flexible and easy-going attitude is essential for the best experience.

Occasionally, certain experiences or activities may need to be modified or skipped due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, refunds will not be provided for any missed components of the itinerary.

Adventurous Women Tour Leader
English speaking local guide
Accommodation on a twin share basis with optional single rooms at a surcharge
Private Air-Conditioned vehicles for included transfers and sightseeing
Included activities (with entrance fees) as per daily itinerary
Meals as listed in the itinerary with purified drinking water

"Loved every minute of the trip! Organisation was great, tour leader (Jazzy) was fabulous, and the other women on the walk were just lovely"

Celia Nepal

"So well organised by the team nothing was a problem so helpful lots of fun with the other Adventurous Women"

Lorrie Ningaloo Reef

"I loved the great group of women and the variety of activities. We hiked, cooked, kayaked, met elephants, laughed, swam and ate. Marie’s knowledge of her homeland made this a memorable experience"

Michelle Cambodia

"Loved the week hiking with Anna & an inspiring group of women. Really well organised, fun, delicious food, amazing scenery. Highly recommend"

Sue Bibbulmun Track

"A stunning part of the world to hike with a special group of awesome women, led by our wonderful leader Lyn"

Tammy Japan

Good to know

Cancellation & Refunds

Cancellation by Adventurous Women:
In the event that we cancel a tour or are unable to guarantee the departure due to not meeting minimum numbers, we will provide a full refund.

Cancellation by you:

90+ days before departure - Loss of deposit (partial voucher available*)
75-89 days before departure - Loss of deposit
74 days or less before departure - Loss of all payments
No refund is available once a tour has commenced

*Multi-day tour cancellations made 90+ days before departure are eligible for a $250 voucher

We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance with trip cancellation cover for peace of mind.

View our full booking terms & conditions

The Adventurous Women Way

The magic of our trips comes from travellers bringing a supportive mindset, a go-with-the-flow attitude, and a genuine spirit of adventure.

We explore beautiful, often remote places where life moves at a different pace. Flexibility, a little humour and positivity go a long way in creating an atmosphere where everyone feels free to be themselves and make the adventure far more rewarding.

Find more about the Adventurous Women Way and travelling with AW

Exclusions

The following is not included in the cost of the tour:

International Flights
Arrival and Departure transfers
Any visas required
Services not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips for local guides and drivers
Expenditure of personal nature
Personal Travel Insurance (mandatory)

Solo Travellers

If you’re travelling solo not to worry, you’re in good company! Many of our travellers join solo and our trips are designed to feel welcoming and supportive from the moment you arrive. It’s a great way to meet like-minded women, and friendships often form quickly along the way.

When on the tour , we have you sharing with different women from the group at different times - great for group bonding and also for alleviating any potential annoyances that may occur as a result of travelling with the same person throughout a tour. Or, if you’d prefer your own room on the trip, this is available for an additional supplement. You can select this option at the time of booking.

Arrival & Departure Details

The trip begins in Istanbul at 5:30pm on 2 October. Istanbul has two main airports, Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), and either works for this trip.

The trip ends in Cappadocia after breakfast on 15 October. You can fly from either Kayseri (ASR) or Nevşehir (NAV) back to Istanbul to connect with an international flight, or onwards to regional destinations.

Who will be leading the trip?

All AW trips are accompanied by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and help you get the most out of your experience, while embracing the Adventurous Women way.

You’ll also be joined by English-speaking Turkish guides for sightseeing visits and excursions.

Do you accommodate dietary requirements?

We do our best to accommodate dietary requirements and food allergies wherever possible. Please ensure any dietary requirements are advised in advance so we can confirm what can be accommodated and let you know of any limitations before you travel.

Accommodation

We’ll stay in comfortable hotels and guesthouses, with a mix of modern and more traditional properties. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms. The trip price is based on twin-share accommodation, with two people per room. Single rooms may be available for a surcharge.

How will we be travelling?

This is an overland trip, with some longer travel days. We’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned bus throughout the tour.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is mandatory for AW's international trips. If you haven't done so already, we recommend taking out a policy early. Most good travel insurance policies offer an upgrade option to cover trip cancellation and interruption, which can come in handy.

If you are looking for a recommendation, we suggest Go Insurance. Through an affiliation with this insurer, AW receives a financial benefit. As a way of passing value back to our guests, if you purchase a policy for an AW trip through Go Insurance using this link, you will receive a 10% discount on the premium. You can learn more about this offer by clicking here.