T urkey—it’s magical and mystical, friendly, fun and fascinating. And it’s one of the Mediterranean’s best-kept travel secrets. For a family adventure, few destinations offer such a wide range of activities in so many geographically distinct landscapes. Our journey through this ancient and culturally diverse land will entertain your senses, challenge your inner explorer, and stoke the fires of your children’s imagination. Ultimately we know you’ll be wowed.

Istanbul, with its palaces, mosques and markets, reaches across the Bosphorus and connects two continents. Discover the fragrant spices first carried from the far ends of the Silk Road in the legendary Spice Market. Stand in awe beneath the soaring domed space of timeless Hagia Sophia. And bargain your way through the bustling, colorful, tempting Grand Bazaar.  

Venture into Turkey’s interior to hike through the lunar-like, geological wonderland of Cappadocia with its stone “fairy chimneys” and underground dwellings.

Aboard a private gulet—a traditional Turkish wooden yacht—discover the exquisite natural beauty of the Turquoise Coast and explore the ruins of the ancient Lycian and Lydean civilizations. Kids will love jumping into the warm waters, snorkeling above ruins claimed by the sea, and hiking to a real Crusader castle. Our day exploring magnificent Ephesus, from the Temple of Artemis to the façade of the Celsus Library, is yet another highlight in a country that was once the center of the known world’s greatest empires.

2012 Dates

*Photography Trip with Chris Gamel -- itinerary

Triple Discount: $100 for child under 12 sharing with 2 adults

Alumni Discount: if you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices

Large Group Discount, if the departure you choose has 11 or more travelers (including your family) a $600 per person discount will apply.

Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room; land transportation, private bi-lingual guide throughout, area specialists, all meals except 2 lunches and 1 dinner, bottled water & snacks, Comprehensive Travel Insurance.

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Days 1 and 2 – Depart U.S. / Arrive Istanbul

Welcome to Turkey! From Istanbul’s mosques to ancient ruins at Ephesus, and from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the warm waters that grace the Turquoise Coast, the mystery and magic of this extraordinary land are yours to discover in this memory-making family vacation.

Day 3 – Istanbul

At the crossroads of East and West and straddling two continents, Istanbul is a cultural and ethnic melting pot. Soaring minarets, bustling marketplaces and non-stop water traffic are part of the city’s daily scene.

Marvel at the Blue Mosque Built in the 17th Century, the Blue Mosque is the only Mosque in Turkey with six minarets. Thousands of hand-painted blue tiles cover the interior walls and ceiling. Its location, across from the Hagia Sophia, was intentional - so that visitors to Istanbul could compare the two and determine which is more impressive. What do your kids think? Tour Topkapi Palace Built by Ottoman Sultans, this 15th-century palace complex once housed more than 8,000 people. It was opened to the public as a museum in 1924 and its opulence is legendary—think glittering gold pavilions, colorful mosaics and tile work, and of course the legendary Topkapi diamond. Visit the Spice Market Inhale some of the fragrant culture at the colorful Spice Market, where you can buy countless kinds of exotic spices, seasonings, teas and candies—Turkish Delight anyone? Istanbul was the last stop on the ancient Silk Road, and this Spice Market was the final destination for Asian goods—which means bargaining and bartering has been going on here for almost 4,000 years! Explore Basilica Cistern This cavernous underground water cistern is a marvel of Byzantine engineering. Constructed in 532 A.D. during the reign of the Emperor Justinian, the Basilica Cistern boasts 336 columns, each standing 26 feet high, supporting a vaulted roof. Walk over water on raised walkways to the strains of music as you step back in time to the heyday of the Byzantine empire.

Days 4 and 5 – Cappadocia

Once an active volcanic region, Cappadocia has a landscape of surreal beauty, where strange and fanciful rock formations–known as the fairy chimneys–rise from the surrounding countryside. Entire underground villages, carved out of tuff, soft volcanic stone, are tucked into this region. We all turn into wide-eyed children here as we discover and explore the underground passageways and the mind-boggling numbers of connecting rooms.

Discover the underground city of Kaymakli Descend into the eight-story deep city of Kaymakli where thousands of Byzantines sought refuge in times of distress. Covering one square mile of underground space, and equipped with kitchens, store rooms, living quarters, water tanks and surprisingly good ventilation, it is said that 300 people could live here for months at a time! Hike the Valley of the Spears Walking through this geological wonderland of Baglidere feels like being on another planet! Wind your way along narrow paths between giant, yet delicate, pointed rocks, or “fairy chimneys” as the locals called them. This magical landscape was formed by centuries of elements that shaped the soft volcanic ash that lay beneath a cap of harder rock. Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum Roam through this incredible open-air museum where the conical hills were carved out centuries ago to create churches and monasteries for the monks who once inhabited the area. The Byzantine frescoes are brilliant! Meet local artisans Learn the local techniques as we watch how terra cotta pottery is made during a visit to a cave workshop, and then try your hand at imitating the process. Later local artisans offer up their tips on dying silk and tying knots to create rugs. Hike the Valley of Roses (optional) Take an optional hike through the Valley of Roses, exploring secret Byzantine cave churches along the way. If relaxing poolside this afternoon sounds more appealing... be our guest!

Day 6 – Ephesus

Exploring the wonders of Ephesus is a memory-making family travel experience. Kids will love the chance to imagine what the city looked like in its heyday, from its opulent baths and gymnasium to the Great Theater, which held 24,000 people. The Temple of Artemis, the largest known temple of its time, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. And the Library of Celsus once contained nearly 15,000 scrolls.

Fly to Izmir Fly nonstop, about 90 minutes, to Izmir, Turkey's 3rd-largest city and the birthplace of Homer. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary Located five miles from the center of Ephesus and perched atop Nightingale Hill, this modest stone house (now a Christian and Muslim shrine), is believed by many to be the site where the Virgin Mary spent her final days after being brought here by Saint John in 37 A.D. Ephesus Museum Anyone interested in art and history will be enthralled with this museum full of artifacts from Ephesus. From 1867 - 1923 the works or art were sent first to the British Museum, and then to Vienna, but eventually the Turks created their own museum. Visit the Temple of Artemis Only the foundations and some ruined remnants remain of the once-glorious Temple of Artemis in the ancient city of Ephesus. It is incredible to imagine what this Greek temple – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – was like in its prime.

Day 7 – Ephesus to the Mediterranean

Visit Ephesus This morning explore the ancient city of Ephesus, a blend of architecture and culture from thousands of years ago. Explore the incredible excavations and marvel at the sophisticated city planning, complete with every public building imaginable, from baths to shops and theaters to temples of worship. Highlights include the 24,000-seat amphitheater and the magnificent facade of the Celsus Library, and the Gate of Heracles. Drive to Göcek We’ll drive from Ephesus to the small coastal town of Göcek, neighbor to the city of Fethiye (situated on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos). Göcek is a mecca of yacht tourism, due to its location along the Turquoise Coast and its six major marinas. In this historical seaside port village, dazzlingly blue water surrounds the stone ruins that dip into the ocean and sink seamlessly into the current Mediterranean landscape. Göcek - Board your private gulet! In Göcek board your very own private yacht—a Turkish gulet—the traditional, double-masted wooden sailboat that's perfect for exploring Turkey's Turquoise Coast.

Days 8 to 10 – Yachting along the Mediterranean Coast

Enjoy three days aboard a traditional Turkish gulet, or private yacht, sailing along the fabled Turquoise Coast and dropping anchor in quiet coves, discovering sheltered beaches and calling at small harbor towns. Originally the land of the ancient Lydians (685-547 B.C.E.), the region was later colonized by the Greeks and the Romans. Along the way kids will love snorkeling and swimming in the warm waters.

Sail to Bedri Rahmi This is one of the most beautiful coves in the Fethiye Bay. Bedri Rahmi was named for the famous Turkish artist who painted a rock as a fish at the entrance of the cove. In the cover there are ancient rock tombs and ruins remaining from the Lycian period. Anchor at Cleopatra's Sunken Baths A sail across Fethiye Bay brings us to the gorgeous Göcek Lagoon this morning. Here we’ll drop anchor near Cleopatra’s Sunken Baths—part of Mark Antony’s wedding gift to the Egyptian queen in 41 B.C.E. Optional hike to Lydea If you wish, join us for a hike across a sublime terrain of beautiful seascapes, nomadic settlements and Byzantine cisterns as we set out for a hike to the ancient city of Lydea, once the home of the Lycian oracle. Explore Gemiler Island Discover the ruins of a 6th century Byzantine monastic settlement set against a brilliant cobalt blue lagoon and surrounded by breathtaking hilltop scenery. Investigate Kayaköy Traveling with teens is especially rewarding when you have the chance to explore sites together that bring history texts to life—such as the abandoned town of Kayaköy. Called “the eeriest place in Turkey,” Kayaköy was a bustling ethnic Greek village of more than 25,000 people until the population exchange of 1923 when it was completely and suddenly deserted. Trek through Soğuksu National Park Enjoy a hike through Soğuksu National Park on your way back to your private yacht.

Day 11  – Mediterranean to Antalya

Founded in 159 B.C.E. by a Pergamum king, clifftop Antalya has become one of Turkey’s most popular resort towns.

Disembark in Fethiye We will exit the traditional Turkish gulet in the historical Aegean city of Fethiye. Fethiye is located on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, which was the most important city of the Lycia region and is now known for its remaining Lycian rock-cut tombs. Drive to Antalya As we drive along the Mediterranean coast to Antalya we’ll stop to enjoy some adventurous fun and ancient history.

Day 12 – Antalya

Leisure day for family time Today is yours to relax, explore Antalya on your own, or join us for a hike (see one of the options Thomson has created for you below). Lunch and dinner are family time; there are so many great places to choose from, you may have to vote! Hike to Termessos If you’re up for a hike today, we’ll take you to Termessos—considered Turkey’s “Machu Picchu.” As you approach the top prepare to feast your eyes on a spectacular ancient village. This spot is also famous as the only town Alexander the Great never tried to conquer.

Day 13 – Depart Antalya / Arrive Istanbul

Tour the amazing Hagia Sophia First built in the 4th Century by Emperor Constantine, and then rebuilt in the 6th Century by Emperor Justinian, Hagia Sophia boasted the world’s largest enclosed space for a millennium. The interior mosaics, golden scrollwork and marble columns are dazzling to behold. Farewell dinner Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a local outdoor Istanbul restaurant. Say “hoşça kalin”—good-bye—to your guide and fellow travelers and don't forget to bring your journal!

Day 14 – Depart Istanbul  / Arrive U.S.

Please Note:   Thomson Family Adventures will attempt to adhere to this itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, cultural, or availability) may necessitate changes in the accommodations.

Why Turkey?

Gateway to the East and West Sitting astride the continents of Asia and Europe, Turkey is home to one of the world’s most unique and intriguing cultures. A blend of various elements of Ottoman, Anatolian, Oguz Turkic and western peoples, the unique culture was born from being located at the gateway for migrations from the east and west for centuries. History… Empires, Crusades, whirling dervishes Wow, what a history! Turkey is one of the oldest continually inhabited areas of the world and home to some of the earliest settlement in the world. From empires that date back to well before the 10th century BC, to settlements and invasions by Greeks, Romans and Mongols to the great Ottoman Empire, you’ll experience the great history of Turkey. You’ll also learn about Turkey’s Whirling Dervishes and other religious history such as the clashes with the Holy Roman Empire during the crusades. Istanbul Istanbul is one of Europe’s most populated cities and is Turkey’s financial and cultural capital. Discover firsthand why Istanbul is the coolest city in the world. At the crossroads of history for three millennia, Istanbul’s narrow streets are home to the Spice Market, Covered Bazaar, the historical Sultanahmet District, and such architectural treasures as the Basilica Cisterns, Topkapi Palace and the Hippodrome. Istanbul was the last stop on the ancient Silk Road, and this Spice Market was the final destination for Asian goods. That means this market has been in business for almost 4,000 years! Remarkable, beautiful cave dwellings You’ll experience the unbelievable beauty of Cappadocia, a region in Turkey's central highlands noted for its frescoed cave churches, remarkable underground dwellings and conical "fairy-chimneys." Here entire villages are carved from soft volcanic stone! From hiking though fantastic canyon landscapes to visiting villages where locals ride donkeys and dry apricots on their rooftops, you’ll witness a wonderful and timeless culture. The ruins of Ephesus Any history buff on our trip will be BLOWN AWAY by Ephesus, and anyone not particularly interested in world history will be converted by the ancient Greek city’s awe-inspiring sites. Founded long before the time of Christ, Ephesus was one of the twelve cities of the Ionian League during the Classical Greek Era, and later an important Roman city – the second-largest after Rome in the Roman Empire. The city contains several ancient marvels, like the ornate façade of the Celsus Library and the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Why Turkey with Thomson?

Diversity of Istanbul, Cappadocia, Taurus Mountains and the Turquoise coast With Thomson, you’ll experience the wide variety of places that Turkey has to offer! From enjoying the intricate beauty of the mosques of Istanbul to exploring the caves of Cappadocia, hiking the Taurus Mountains to sailing along the Turquoise Coast, your family will create memories to last a lifetime. The mystery and magic of this extraordinary place are all yours to experience, for an unforgettable family vacation. Explore the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Haghia Sophia of Istanbul The Blue Mosque is the only mosque in Turkey with six minarets reaching skyward and even more domes cascading down the exterior. It was built in the 17th century, across from the Haghia Sophia so that visitors to Istanbul could compare the two and determine which is more impressive. A great question to ask the kids!
The Topkapi Palace is more than just a palace. In its heyday this complex, located on the Golden Horn, was home to more than 8,000 people. It’s filled with courtyards, pavilions, halls and kiosks.
The architectural mastery of the Haghia Sophia was so far ahead of its time that it went unmatched for 1,000 years. Built in the 6th century, for 916 years it remained a church, then was converted into a Mosque for a few hundred years and in 1935 was transformed into a museum. Explore the caves of Cappadocia where the kids will be enchanted Located in a once active volcanic region, Cappadocia is known for its exceptional rock formations and valleys. As unusually beautiful as these are above ground, the limestone rock formations are even more impressive below the surface, as you and the kids will discover when you climb down four stories into one of the largest underground cities ever built – Kamala. Soccer game with the locals in the Taurus Mountains Driving out over the great Anatolian plains, we visit Sultanhan Caravanserai, where ancient camel caravans stayed, before reaching our destination, the forested Taurus Mountains. We'll sleep in a small mountain village, meet new friends, and perhaps engage in a soccer match. Exploring the area we'll discover the headwaters of the Manavgat River, and if you're bold enough you can enjoy an invigorating dip in the icy waters! Mediterranean yachting You’ve been trekking all over the lands of Turkey, now it’s time to hit the seas! In Finike you’ll board your very own private yacht – a Turkish gulet – the perfect vessel for exploring Turkey's Mediterranean Coast. Gulets are traditional double-masted wooden sailboats.
For the next four nights, you and your family meander slowly along the coast. Dropping anchor at quiet coves, sheltered beaches and small harbor towns, you have many opportunities to swim, snorkel, hike and explore. Enjoy an evening hike to a hilltop Crusader castle, visit Lycian Cliff Tombs and a Roman theater, snorkel over sunken ruins, hike through olive groves and fragrant herb gardens, visit Demre, home to Santa Claus, and where his legendary acts of kindness are said to have begun, and sail to the island of Gemiler for a hike around a monastery with breathtaking views.