Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, where the Toros (Taurus) mountain range sweeps down to meet the sea, broadly divides into three parts. The stretch from Antalya to Alanya is the most accessible tourist region, although intensive agriculture, particularly cotton growing, and package tourism have taken a toll on the environment. East of Alanya, the mountains meet the sea head-on, making for some of Turkey’s most hair-raising roads, curving around jagged stretches of coastline. As a result, this is the least developed and unspoilt section of the Mediterranean shore. Further east the mountains finally recede, giving way to the flat, monotonous landscape of the Ceyhan river delta. South and east of here, turning the corner towards Syria, the landscape becomes more interesting, as the Amanus mountain range dominates the fertile coastal plain, with citrus crops and olives the mainstay of the economy.
The bustling, modern city of Antalya is the prime arrival and junction point. East of here, in the ancient region of Pamphylia, the ruins of three cities – Perge, Aspendos and Side – testify to the sophisticated civilization that flourished during the Hellenistic period, and are well-established day-trip destinations from Antalya. The more isolated Termessos, a Pisidian city north of Antalya, is the most spectacularly sited, with its rugged hilltop terrain peppered with stone ruins.
Seventy kilometres east along the coast from Side, the former pirate refuge of Alanya – now a bustling package-tour destination – is set on and around a dramatic headland topped by a Selçuk citadel. Continuing east, the best places to break your journey are Anamur, where a ruined Hellenistic city abuts some of this coast’s finest beaches, and Kızkalesi, whose huge Byzantine castle sits 200m from the shore of a sandy bay. Kızkalesi also makes a good base from which to explore the ancient city of Uzuncaburç, a lonely ruin high in the Toros Mountains.
Beyond Kızkalesi, in the fertile alluvial delta known as the Çukurova, the Ceyhan River spills down from the mountains and meanders sluggishly into the eastern Mediterranean. This end of the coast – characterized by concentrations of industry and low-lying cotton plantations – has very little to recommend it. Mersin offers regular ferry connections to northern Cyprus; Tarsus, the birthplace of St Paul, holds a few surviving reminders of its long history; and Adana, one of the country’s largest urban centres, is a hectic staging post for journeys further east.
From Adana, routes head north to the central Anatolian plateau, or east to the Euphrates and Tigris basins; this chapter turns its attention south, towards the area formed by the curve of the coast down towards Syria. This is the Hatay, a fertile, hilly region where different cultures have met – and often clashed – in their efforts to dominate the important Silk Route trade. Antakya, the Hatay’s main centre, is the best starting point for explorations, though cosmopolitan İskenderun makes for a surprisingly agreeable base. Antakya has frequent dolmuş connections to Harbiye, site of the Roman resort of Daphne, and to the town of Samandağ, from where you can visit Armenian Vakıflı.
Tailor-made travel itineraries for Turkey, created by local experts

4 days / from1050 USD
Sensational landscapes of Cappadocia
3 different modes of transportation to explore Cappadocia - by hot air balloon, on the back of a camel as well as on an ATV quad. Why choose if you can have it all? Four days filled with fun and adventure in the volcanic valleys around Cappadocia make an unforgettable trip.
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City & culture - Istanbul and Cappadocia
Explore two absolute highlights in Turkey - Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with its many landmarks. After a few days in the city, fly to Cappadocia and explore the surreal surroundings, either on day tours or from above in a hot air balloon.
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Magical Turkey
Visit Gobekli Tepe and Mount Nemrut in Southeastern Anatolia before proceeding to Cappadocia with its volcanic scenery. After a few days in the valleys, continue to Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus. Your tour starts and ends in Istanbul.
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Delightful Turkey
A fast-paced itinerary for those who want to discover as much as of Turkey as possible in under one week. Highlights include the Old Town of Istanbul, the valleys of Cappadocia, the birth of Sufism and the historical city of Ephesus.
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22 days / from7879 USD
Cultural Turkish Odyssey
Embark on a 22-day journey through Turkey's rich tapestry of culture and history. From Istanbul's enchanting blend of Asia and Europe to ancient wonders, coastal gems, and the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, this tour immerses you in the treasures of Turkey.
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Discovering Turkey
Discover Turkey's treasures in 10 unforgettable days. Explore Istanbul's heritage, walk the ancient streets of Ephesus, and soak in the natural wonders of Pamukkale and Cappadocia. An epic journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes awaits.
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7 days / from1850 USD
A week in Istanbul
Explore Istanbul's treasures in 6 captivating days. From historic landmarks to culinary delights and cultural experiences, immerse yourself in this enchanting city.
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8 days / from1965 USD
Hiking in the valleys of Cappadocia
Embark on a 7-day Turkish odyssey filled with breathtaking hikes, cultural immersion, ancient marvels, and blissful relaxation. Your unforgettable adventure begins here!
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Turkish Treasures: A Journey through History, Culture, and Natural Wonders
Embark on a captivating journey through Turkey's treasures. Explore Istanbul, and ancient Ephesus, marvel at Pamukkale's surreal terraces, savor local delights, and unwind in Bodrum's vibrant nightlife. An unforgettable adventure awaits.
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