Highlights
Slide
Istanbul Istanbul
Kars Kars
Mt. Ararat Mt. Ararat
Van Van
Mt. Nemrut Mt. Nemrut
Göbeklitepe Göbeklitepe
Gaziantep Gaziantep

Eastern Turkey Tour

14 Days • Start City: Istanbul • End City: Istanbul • Meals: 13 Breakfasts
Unearth ancient secrets on our extraordinary 13-day Eastern Turkey tour, starting from vibrant Istanbul! Marvel at the cliff-perched Sumela Monastery and wander through the medieval ruins of Ani before witnessing the biblical silhouette of Mount Ararat. Cruise across Lake Van to Akdamar Island's historic church, then ascend to see colossal Commagene statues atop Mount Nemrut and discover humanity's earliest temple at Göbekli Tepe. Immerse yourself in the unique cultures of Mardin, Sanliurfa, and Gaziantep's world-renowned Zeugma Mosaic Museum, culminating your adventure back in Istanbul. This expertly guided journey offers unparalleled historical and cultural depth in Turkey's captivating east.
INCLUDES
  • Inbound Transfer - Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
  • Outbound Transfer - Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
  • Professional English-speaking local tour guides at each site
  • Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle
  • Domestic flight between Istanbul and Trabzon and transfers
  • Domestic flight between Gaziantep and Istanbul and transfers
  • Tips except Driver and Guide
  • Entrance fees
  • 13 nights - accommodation
  • 13 Breakfasts
EXCLUDES
  • Suggested optional activities
  • Tips - Driver and Guide
  • Compulsory Travel Insurance
ITINERARY
Day 1
Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul! You will be transferred to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours, free to explore.
Overnight : Istanbul Category : 4 star Hotel : Port Bosphorus Hotel

Day 2
Trabzon, Hopa Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 2

This morning you'll transferred to the airport for yor flight to Trabzon.

Once in Trabzon, we visit the 14th-century Byzantine church of Hagia Sophia, perched majestically overlooking the Black Sea. Then, delve into the serene ambiance of Altindere National Park to explore the cliff-side monastery of the Virgin Mary at Sumela.

Following this spiritual journey, our path winds along the captivating Black Sea coast, offering breathtaking views, until we reach Hopa near the Georgian border.
Overnight : Artvin Category : 3 star Hotel : Mitra Black Sea Hotel (Dates beetween : 24.05.2026 – 05.06.2026)
Overnight : Artvin Category : 4 star Hotel : Resort Arhavi Hotel (Dates beetween : 06.06.2026 – 31.12.2026)

Day 3
Artvin, Ishan, Erzurum Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 3

Our journey continues from Hopa as we set forth towards Erzurum, traversing through the picturesque landscapes of Artvin, Ishan, and the awe-inspiring Georgian Valleys. Along this route, nature unveils its breathtaking beauty, treating us to spectacular vistas and scenic wonders that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on our adventure.
Overnight : Erzurum Category : 4 star Hotel : Zade Hotel

Day 4
Kars, Ani Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 4

Prepare for a day filled with discovery in Erzurum before we head towards Kars. Our departure takes us through the captivating Aras River valley, passing by the poignant First World War battlefield site of Sarikamis.

Upon arrival in Kars, our itinerary unfolds with an exploration of the ancient Armenian city of Ani, situated along the Arpaçay River. This remarkable city is adorned with ancient ruins and steeped in historical significance.
Overnight : Kars Category : Boutique Hotel : Beylerbeyi Sarayı Kars

Day 5
Mt Ararat, Dogubayazıt, Van Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 5

Continuing our expedition, we journey towards Dogubayazit, tracing past the iconic Biblical Mount Ararat. Our visit includes the splendid Ishak Pasha Palace, an architectural gem steeped in history and cultural significance. Our voyage then leads us to the enchanting city of Van, where we'll settle for the night.
Overnight : Van Category : 5 star Hotel : Elit World Van Hotel

Day 6
Van, Lake Van, Akdamar Island Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 6

Embark on a day of exploration in the Van region, commencing with a visit to the 17th-century fortress at Hosap, a strategic landmark along the ancient Silk Road that connected Persia and the Orient.

Later in the afternoon, our journey takes us to Akdamar Island on Lake Van, Turkey's largest lake. Here, we'll discover the historic 10th-century Church of the Holy Cross, an architectural treasure adorned with intricate reliefs, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Overnight : Van Category : 5 star Hotel : Elit World Van Hotel

Day 7
Tatvan, Nemrut Crater Lake Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 7

Our journey progresses from Van along Lake Van's southern shore, leading us to Tatvan. From there, we'll venture to witness the impressive Volcano Crater of Nemrut, a natural marvel. Continuing our exploration, we'll visit the Seljuk monuments of Ahlat, significant remnants from the Seljuk era, offering insight into the region's historical and architectural legacy.
Overnight : Tatvan Category : 4 star Hotel : Kardelen Hotel

Day 8
Batman, Hasankeyf, Mardin Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 8

Our journey proceeds via Bitlis, traversing the picturesque Bitlis Gorge and passing through the city of Batman, leading us to Hasankeyf, poised for submersion under the lake formed by a new dam on the Tigris, offers a glimpse into its history through its caves and remnants of the medieval Byzantine city.

Continuing our westward route towards Mardin, we'll pause in Midyat to explore its captivating Silver Bazaar. Upon arriving in Mardin, our itinerary includes a visit to the Kasimiye Medrese, an architectural gem steeped in history that stands as a testament to the region's cultural richness and scholarly heritage.
Overnight : Mardin Category : 4 star Hotel : Gazi Konağı Hotel

Day 9
Mardin, Diyarbakir Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 9

Following breakfast, our itinerary leads us to the iconic Deir-Al-Zafaran (Saffron Monastery) which historically served as the core of the Syriac Christian Patriarchy. This ancient site holds centuries of religious significance, originally constructed over a 1000 BC temple dedicated to sun worship. Remarkably, the monastery's main buildings are situated upon the foundations of this ancient sun temple, showcasing a captivating architectural fusion highlighted by a distinctive flat arch roof.

Subsequently, we'll journey northwest from Mardin to Diyarbakir, where our sightseeing includes a visit to the 10 Arches Bridge spanning the majestic Tigris River. This historical bridge stands as a testament to ancient engineering and serves as a cultural landmark.
Overnight : Diyarbakir Category : 4 star Hotel : VE Hotels Diyarbakır

Day 10
Mt. Nemrut Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 10

Commence the day with sightseeing in Diyarbakir, beginning with a visit to the Ulu Cami (Mar Thoma), a significant religious site encompassing both a mosque and a church.

Subsequently, our journey proceeds as we depart for Nemrut via a ferry crossing over the Euphrates River, reaching Narlice Village in Nemrut National Park. Upon arrival, we'll ascend Mount Nemrut to explore the awe-inspiring Tombs of the Commagene Kingdom and the monumental Colossal Statues of Gods. Climbing further to the Tumulus of Antiochos, the capital of Kommagene, we'll witness the mesmerizing sunset from the summit of Nemrut.

This ancient funerary monument atop Mount Nemrut, lost and forgotten for nearly two millennia, stands as a testament to history and offers a breathtaking vista that captures the essence of time and memory.
Overnight : Adiyaman Category : 3 star Hotel : Karadut Hotel Nemrut

Day 11
Sanliurfa, Göbekli Tepe Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 11

Following breakfast, we continue towards Sanliurfa, with an extraordinary stop at Göbekli Tepe, a pivotal archaeological site of global significance. This groundbreaking excavation represents a paramount shift in comprehending early human history. Here, the remains of the earliest known religious structures crafted by humankind are unveiled, dating back approximately 11,000 to 13,000 years, preceding the advent of pottery, writing, Stonehenge, and even the Pyramids!

In the afternoon, our journey returns to Sanliurfa, where we'll visit the revered Holy Pools of Abraham (Balıklıgöl) and the sacred cave believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Abraham.
Overnight : Sanliurfa (Urfa) Category : 5 star Hotel : El Ruha Hotel

Day 12
Gaziantep, Zeugma Mosaic Museum Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 12

Following breakfast, our day unfolds with a visit to Sanliurfa's vibrant Ottoman Bazaar, a bustling marketplace offering a glimpse into the region's cultural tapestry. Our exploration continues at the Archaeology Museum, delving into the rich history and artifacts that chronicle Sanliurfa's captivating past.

Subsequently, our journey proceeds to Gaziantep, where we'll be captivated by the incredible Zeugma Mosaic Museum. This remarkable museum houses an exquisite collection of ancient mosaics, showcasing the artistry and cultural heritage of the Zeugma region. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate designs and historical significance preserved within these mosaic treasures.
Overnight : Gaziantep Category : 4 star Hotel : Şirehan Hotel

Day 13
Gaziantep, Istanbul Breakfast
Eastern Turkey Tour Day 13

Today you will be transferred to the airport for u flight to Istanbul where the remainder of the day is free to explore.
Overnight : Istanbul Category : 4 star Hotel : Port Bosphorus Hotel

Day 14
Istanbul Breakfast

After breakfast our tour concludes and we say goodbye to our new friends before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

MAP
Eastern Turkey Tour
ACCOMMODATIONS

This is intended to give an idea of the type of accommodation that may be expected. The actual hotels used for any given tour may change due to many reasons such as group size, availability, time of year, hotel standard has dropped or simply we found a better hotel. We update the website immediately if and when any changes take place. If and when we do change hotels it will be to a hotel of equal or higher standard and will be at no extra cost.

Where more than one hotel is shown for a given an overnight stop this means that one of those hotels will be used.

Istanbul - 4 star - Port Bosphorus Hotel
Port Bosphorus Hotel
Port Bosphorus Hotel
Port Bosphorus Hotel
Erzurum - 4 star - Zade Hotel
Zade Hotel
Zade Hotel
Zade Hotel
Tatvan - 4 star - Kardelen Hotel
Kardelen Hotel
Kardelen Hotel
Kardelen Hotel
Mardin - 4 star - Gazi Konağı Hotel
Gazi Konağı Hotel
Gazi Konağı Hotel
Gazi Konağı Hotel
Sanliurfa (Urfa) - 5 star - El Ruha Hotel
El Ruha Hotel
El Ruha Hotel
El Ruha Hotel
Gaziantep - 4 star - Şirehan Hotel
Şirehan Hotel
Şirehan Hotel
Şirehan Hotel
Kars - Boutique - Beylerbeyi Sarayı Kars
Beylerbeyi Sarayı Kars
Beylerbeyi Sarayı Kars
Beylerbeyi Sarayı Kars
Van - 5 star - Elit World Van Hotel
Elit World Van Hotel
Elit World Van Hotel
Elit World Van Hotel
Adiyaman - 3 star - Karadut Hotel Nemrut
Karadut Hotel Nemrut
Karadut Hotel Nemrut
Karadut Hotel Nemrut
Artvin - 3 star - Mitra Black Sea Hotel
Mitra Black Sea Hotel
Mitra Black Sea Hotel
Mitra Black Sea Hotel
Artvin - 4 star - Resort Arhavi Hotel
Resort Arhavi Hotel
Resort Arhavi Hotel
Resort Arhavi Hotel
Diyarbakir - 4 star - VE Hotels Diyarbakır
VE Hotels Diyarbakır
VE Hotels Diyarbakır
VE Hotels Diyarbakır
DEPARTURE DATES & PRICES
June 2026
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April 2027
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May 2027
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9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
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June 2027
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August 2027
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September 2027
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October 2027
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Available Stop Sale Discounted Solo
Date Between From 26 Apr 2026 to 25 Oct 2026
Category Standard
Per Person in Double 5.525 $
Single Supplement 1.364 $

Date Between From 29 Apr 2027 to 28 Oct 2027
Category Standard
Per Person in Double 6.365 $
Single Supplement 1.544 $

IMPORTANT NOTES
  1. Group Size : Minimum Group Size of 2. Maximum Group Size of 40.
  2. Age : Minimum Age of 8. Whilst there is no Maximum Age set it is assumed the customer is fit enough to take part in the activity or tour. Health documents may be requested.
  3. Single travellers are obliged to pay Single Supplement and will have the hotel room to themselves.
  4. You will need to have your passport handy at check-in for any domestic flights
  5. This tour is rated as Moderate, meaning it involves some walking, stairs, and longer travel days, and is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
  6. We generally prioritise scheduling flights with Turkish Airlines whenever availability permits. However, on certain routes, Turkish Airlines may operate the service through AJet, and for some destinations, flights may only be available with Pegasus Airlines or SunExpress. Therefore, depending on route availability and flight schedules, we may need to arrange flights with airlines other than Turkish Airlines. Please also note that baggage allowance policies may vary between airlines. Turkish Airlines flights generally include a 25 kg checked baggage allowance, while other airlines may limit checked baggage to 20 kg.
  7. Please note that Fez Travel reserves the right to make changes to the accommodation, itinerary, or other tour components if necessary, while ensuring the overall quality and standard of the services provided are maintained or exceeded.
  8. Your booking gives injured sea turtles a second chance. By choosing our tours, you are not only discovering Türkiye’s cultural and natural heritage, but also actively contributing to marine conservation. With every reservation of USD 1,000 or more, we make a donation to support the daily care and feeding of injured sea turtles, specifically Caretta caretta (loggerhead turtles). Read more about it on our Responsible Travel page
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