16-Day Turkey Great Circle Tour, Explore the Whole of Turkey

This is a great circle journey that starts in Istanbul and takes you across Turkey to visit some of the most memorable destinations, including historical sites, the Aegean Sea, and geological wonders.

Tour Highlights

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Albee was great in booking our tour to

Albee was great in booking our tour to Indonesia Malaysia and Singapore.She was very friendly and responded to my request to change itinerary few times to fit our needs.

, Dec 2023

China is Amazing Wonders that do not stop coming at you.Great country

Great job,Loved every minute of it,Ethan did an amazing job,True Ambassador of China,Just like the Chinese people,Friendly, dignified and hardworking,Very happy.China Highlights exceeded expectations and then some,I will never even think of travelling with another company.

Philip Sardar /Maps10321171537, Dec 2023

Wonderful times with the pandas

The tour was amazing and we loved the pandas we got so many wonderful pictures and our guide Helen was great. She is super knowledgeable and always ready to help

Kavita, Dec 2023

Xi’an

During our trip around China, we spent three days in Xi'an. Thanks to our wonderful guide, Susan, who took us to visit the most beautiful places, explaining additional details about the dynasties. We especially enjoyed the Terracotta Warriors, where we had the chance to create one at a local workshop. Susan was very attentive; she tried to find a restaurant where everyone was happy with the food and found a pizza for our little son. She even made a gift for our daughter—a beautiful hairpin. Very positive experience!

Kamilya1818, Dec 2023

Wonderful trip to Beijing and Xian

Had a great trip to bejing n xian. Our guide lily liu is so well versed in english and we have no worry here at all. We managed to dine in great halal restaurants though out our trip. Highly reccomended to all muslims travellers.

Efen Reyes, Dec 2023

Great experience, highly recommended!

Additionally, she helped me with all my personal needs like getting a SIM card, finding an ATM, shopping, dining, checking in at the train station, hotel, suggested a couple additional very entertaining art events. Was also punctual and spoke good English.

Wayne S., Nov 2023

Chengdu and surrounding area tours

Our guide Helen was the complete package. She guided us every step with deep knowledge and energy. But, that's not all. She bought us snacks for the optional kungfu show. She helped us check into every hotel and inspected our room to ensure it was perfect. She translated at every need. She even bought a bamboo stick to help us ward off some aggressive monkeys. We had 4 lovely days with Helen and our excellent driver, Mr. Wu. Highly recommended!

Chris, Nov 2023

Like a dream come true, but better

The experience itself was above and beyond what was described. The driver and vehicle was spotless and on time, the lantern festival and seats were like something from a wonderful dream. The lesson to make kratong and the dinner after were perfect. This whole experience has been a dream come true and I cannot recommend it enough.

Diana B, Nov 2023

excellent communication

Bangkok guide Mr. Samart was great, and saw to all our needs. Mr. Chong in Chaing Mai was fun and very sweet. (5 Stars, Mr. Chong!) Finally, Nittaya is experienced, flexible to our needs, and took good care of us right to the flight out.

Abigail Kamelhair, Nov 2023

We really enjoyed touring Chiang Mai

She met us at the airport and accompanied us on hiking tours, market visits, temple and pagoda tours, and our Thai cooking class, and then returned us safely to the airport where she helped us navigate the check-in process.

Steve, Nov 2023

Excellent Siem Reap tour guide

He shared his vast knowledge about the Angkor temples, the Cambodian culture, the Khmer people, and the Khmer spirituality, in both historical and modern times. I appreciated how he connected Cambodia with other countries in Southeast Asia, as I had visited these countries prior to Sam's excellent tour.

Baha, Nov 2023

Everything worked very well

Everything worked very well, for the second time I used Asia Highlights' service, and I'm already planning the third time, I have to praise the attention given by Sharon and Amir, who went beyond the professional service, during the trip, my wife Teresa had to carrying out a surgical procedure in India, and Sharon and Amir were tireless so that we could have peace of mind during that urgent moment. We would like to express our gratitude to these two professionals, and see you soon.

William Roberto Guedes, Nov 2023

Accommodations by Asia highlights have

Accommodations by Asia highlights have been terrific so far. The Khmer Residence in Siem Reap as well as Eastin Grand hotel in Bangkok. Both had excellent pools and breakfasts.Tours in Siem Reap were particularly well given with an amazing mix of culture, history and humor throughout (Mr Poly). Tours in Bangkok by Mr Banks were informative and well organized with samples of Thai fruit and treats throughout.

Chris Williams, Nov 2023

Our guide Chhong was amazing

Our guide Chhong was more than knowledgeable about the many temples of Siemens Reap, he was passionate about them. My wife and him talked on and on about the myths, stories and Gods that adored the many temples. He knew so much about Cambodian history that it a pleasure to have him accompany us. His driver Jack knew how to pick us up at secret locations to shorten the walking (it was still a lot these temples are huge). We had a marvelous time and I’m definitely going to return as there are still so many things for Chhong to show us.

Brent Zadorozny, Nov 2023

Great experience from planning with Sharon

Great experience from planning with Sharon to all the guides, drivers, and adventurers we had in Thailand and Cambodia.

Deborah Hinerfeld, Nov 2023

Family tour

Claire set up our whole trip in just a few days. She listened to all our needs, and made sure it all fit our budget. She was also there 24/7 to answer any questions we had. Her service made us feel really looked after.

Kamila, Nov 2023

Vietnam November 2023

It was our second trip organised by Asia Highlights. After wonderful stay we had in South China in 2017 now we decided to go to Vietnam. Everything was perfectly organised and planned for our group by excellent advisor - Monica

Aneta Ignatowicz, Nov 2023

Vietnam and Cambodia

The variety of experiences provided by Asia Highlights was great. In every city we had many different types of tours and really learned about the culture.

Jodi Ralston, Nov 2023

Piseth was our guide and he was

Piseth was our guide and he was exceptional from beginning to end. So kind, courteous and very very knowledgeable. He made our stay in Cambodia a wonderful experience. His driver Bo was a great driver and courteous man. Would highly recommend Piseth for any traveller

Peggy, Nov 2023

ASTONISHING SE Asia with Asia Highlights Tours

Every detail was taken care of from flights, airport greeting, transportation, meals, hotels and tours. They were available for any concerns we had throughout the trip which was very reassuring in countries where we did not speak the languages.

Shelbee & Jerry, Nov 2023

Tour Map

Itinerary Details

The itinerary below is only a typical sample and you may alter anything to suit your preferences. Tell us your needs and our travel advisors will tailor-make the itinerary to meet your requirements.

Day 1

Istanbul Arrival

Upon your arrival in Istanbul, your private tour guide and driver will be ready to meet you. You will be transferred to your hotel where you can have a good rest ready to start your great circle tour.

Day 2

Istanbul Old City

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

You will explore the old city of Istanbul. Start from the Hippodrome of Constantinople — the place chariot races and competitive athletic events took place during the Roman period. Then continue to the Blue Mosque, which is a 17th-century Ottoman mosque famous for its six minarets and magnificent interior with blue tiles. Next, go to Hagia Sophia – the great Byzantine basilica built in the 6th century – which remained the largest cathedral in the world for almost a thousand years. Then your tour will take you to the Topkapi Palace, which was the residence of the Ottoman sultans and houses riches from 700 years ago. Finally, visit the Grand Bazaar and immerse yourself among the dazzling goods.

Special Notes

Hagia Sophia is closed on Mondays.
The Blue Mosque is closed on Fridays.
The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays.
The Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

Optional Trip to Enrich Your Tour

Bosphorus night cruise with dinner: Enjoy sightseeing at night with views of both Asia and Europe from the Bosphorus Bay. Your dinner will be served on the cruise.

Day 3

Istanbul to Canakkale, Visit Gallipoli

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

After having breakfast, drive to Gallipoli, which is historically famous for being the site of World War I. You will visit some of the famous sites including the Dardanelles Memorial, Brighton Beach, and Anzac Cove. At the end of the day, take a ferry to the other side of Dardanelles — Canakkale.

Day 4

Canakkale to Kusadasi, Visit Troy and Pergamum

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

You will start the day with Troy, the place where the legendary Trojan War took place in the historical works of Homer and Quintus of Smyrna. After lunch at a local restaurant, drive to the ancient city of Pergamum, which had one of the most important libraries in the ancient world and the Altar of Zeus.

Later in the day, you will arrive in Kusadasi.

Day 5

Kusadasi, Ephesus Ancient City

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

You will tour the ancient city of Ephesus.Ephesus is an ancient city that became famous for its well-preserved buildings. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world, the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, Marble Street, and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Day 6

Kusadasi to Pamukkale, Visit Aphrodisias and Hierapolis

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

In the morning, drive to Aphrodisias and then visit the ancient city of Hierapolis. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and used to be visited by people to soothe their ailments, retire, and also to die there. Have a break as you walk on the terraces or swim in Cleopatra's Pool (optional).

Optional Trip to Enrich Your Tour

Swimming in an ancient spring pool in Hierapolis is an amazing experience. Float in the natural warm water and gaze at pieces of ruins from the ancient city that are clearly visible at the bottom of the water. Please take your swimsuit with you at the start of this tour.

Day 7

Pamukkale to Fethiye

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

In the morning, have fun in the 'Cotton Castle', Pamukkale, which has hot springs and travertines, which are terraces of carbonate minerals left by the flowing and cooling water. After lunch in a local restaurant, drive to the beautiful coastal city of Fethiye. Relax for the rest of the day.

Day 8

Fethiye Free Day

Meal provided: breakfast

This is a free day. Why not enjoy some swimming, try food in the local old town of Paspatur, and visit some of the Lycian rock tombs dotted around the city.

Once the evening begins, Fethiye offers a range of dining from quick meals to fine dining followed by bars and nightclubs to relax with a drink.

Optional Trips to Enrich Your Tour

Island-hopping day trip: Hop on a pirate ship to explore the little islands! You will visit the Blue Cave, Butterfly Valley, Camel Beach, and more. Play high up on the deck and dance in the deck foam party!

Half-day diving trip: If you love diving, joining a half-day diving trip will be fun!

Day 9

Fethiye to Antalya via D400, the Most Beautiful Coastal Road

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

D400 is considered to be one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world and it lies between Fethiye and Antalya. You can sit back and enjoy a relaxing ride along the stunning coastline. Stop over at Kas, a lovely town on the way, and enjoy local food in a seaside restaurant.

You will arrive in Antalya in the afternoon.

Day 10

Antalya, Perge, and Aspendos City Tour

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

Explore the ancient sites of Perge and Aspendos, visit the beautiful Side, and see the natural Kursunlu and Manavgat waterfalls (depending on the season).

You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and the tour will begin with a visit to Perge. Tour the stadium, the Roman Gate, the Nymphaeum, the Roman baths, the Hellenistic Gate, the colonnaded main street, and the Agora. After lunch, there will be time to visit one of the waterfalls depending on the time of year. Aspendos is the next stop and it is known for its well-preserved theater.

Day 11

Antalya Free Day

Meal provided: breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a free day at leisure on your own. You can stroll along the coast or just do nothing.

Optional Trip to Enrich Your Tour

Paragliding: This experience will make your heart beat faster! Go paragliding from Babadag mountain to Oludeniz Beach landing point via a tandem flight (approximately 40 minutes). This offers a unique photo opportunity on your honeymoon in Turkey.

Day 12

Antalya to Cappadocia via Konya

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, say goodbye to Antalya, and then head to Cappadocia. After 4 hours of driving, you will reach Konya where you have the chance to visit the Mevlana Museum, a school of whirling dervishes. You will have your lunch in a traditional Turkish restaurant. Then, you will be driven for another 3 hours to reach Cappadocia.

We have selected a lovely cave hotel for you to have an intimate time.

Day 13

Northern Cappadocia Tour

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

Start your day at Goreme Panorama which offers a splendid view over the village of Goreme, the land of fairy chimneys. Then, you will be fascinated by the Goreme Open-Air Museum, which is the biggest monastery complex in the region. You will continue to Ortahisar, a typical village with a castle and caves for food storage.

Afterward, you will visit one of the most interesting places, Fairy Chimneys Valley – Pasabag – with its mushroom-like rock formations. Passing through Imaginary Valley (Devrent Valley), you will have the impression that animals are petrified in the rocks.

You will enjoy an open buffet for lunch in a restaurant.

Finally, you will walk along the Red River's flourishing Avanos town, which is famous for its pottery cave workshops dating back thousands of years to the Hittites. On the way back to your hotel, you will visit Love Valley, which offers a magnificent view.

Day 14

Cappadocia to Istanbul, Underground City

Meals provided: breakfast and lunch

Your visit will start with Uchisar Castle, the biggest fairy chimney used as a fortress by many civilizations. Next, you will be amazed by Kaymakli Underground City, which served for many centuries as a refuge for the local people and saved early Christians from Roman persecution.

Then, you will visit Pigeon Valley with its lovely pigeons still living in pigeon houses. It has a wonderful view of Uchisar Castle.

Take a late flight to Istanbul.

Optional Trip to Enrich Your Tour

Hot-air balloon ride: This experience will be a happy ending for your honeymoon! Ride in a hot-air balloon and have a full view of Goreme. Enjoy flying in the air with your loved one. We will make sure you get window seats in our balloon and we are certain your expectations will be met!

Day 15

Istanbul Free Day

Meal provided: breakfast

After having breakfast at your hotel, you will have a free day to explore the city on your own.

Day 16

Istanbul Departure

Meal provided: breakfast

According to your flight time, you will be transferred to Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) where you will wave goodbye to your guide and check in, ready for your flight back home.