TURKEY
Turkey - Vibrant, Historic, Diverse
When people think of the Silk Road, they often forget that it threaded west from the great trading oases of Central Asia, and on across the Anatolian plains to Istanbul, in those days known as Constantinople. A main terminus of the Uzun Kol, or Long Road, as the Turks knew this trade route, was Constantinople’s Golden Horn, on the western shore of the Bosphorus. Writing in 1204, conquering crusader Robert of Clari marvelled that the city: “...was so rich, and there were so many rich vessels of gold and silver and cloth of gold and so many rich jewels, that it was a fair marvel…”
Today, Istanbul is a megacity of 15 million inhabitants and still, as it was then, a place where continents and cultures collide. But while Turkey’s capital - with its famous markets, mosques and palaces - is one of the world’s great cities, some of our favourite places in Turkey are in the east. Here you can walk through groves of wild pistachio trees to the ruins of 5th century Armenian churches, look across Lake Van to the cone of Mount Ararat, and marvel at the ruins of Gobekli Tepe, a settlement that was built over 9000 years ago, when woolly mammoths may have still roamed these plains.
In between Istanbul and Lake Van lie the cave churches of Cappadocia, a wealth of Greco-Roman sights and, for the sun-lovers among you, glorious Mediterranean beaches.
(Please note, while we respect that the Turkish government officially changed the country's international name to Türkiye in 2022, we are continuing to use the English exonym Turkey, as this is the name most of our readers are familiar with.)
Some of our Turkey highlights
With our background in journalism and television production, and more than a decade’s experience of planning bespoke trips for individuals, families and small groups, tailor-made journeys are what we do best.
Turkey is a vast and hugely varied country. Whether you want to explore the Byzantine history of Istanbul, delve into the story of tea on the Black Sea coast, meet shepherds in the Kaçkar Mountains or dig into the many layers of history and civilization around Lake Van, we can make it happen.
Tailor-Made Turkey Tours
“All over the eastern half of the country, the astonishingly lovely ruins of lost churches are found hidden down distant goat tracks.” William Dalrymple, The Financial Times.
For ruin hunters, history buffs, romantics and lovers of more off-beat travel, Turkey’s far east is an absolute teasure trove. Here you can visit the ruins of Armenian churches, drive across open plains in the shadow of Mount Ararat, and visit the remains of medieval Ani, once one of the world’s largest cities. And while you’re at it, stop at Göbekli Tepe, among the most important archaeological sites in the world, a place that reshaped our understanding of early human settlement.
To discuss exploring the wonders of Eastern Turkey on a tailor-made tour, click the button below.
Spotlight on: The Wonders of Eastern Turkey
Frequently Asked Questions - Expert Answers from Silk Road Adventures
Planning Your Trip
When is the best time to visit Turkey?
This depends on which areas of this large country you’re interested in visiting. Summer, from early June to late August, can be very hot at lower altitudes and near the coasts. Winters can be icy-cold and snowy, particularly in Anatolia and the mountainous areas. The peak season for mountain trekking runs from early July to early September - high passes in the Kaçkar range will be snowbound until early June. For lower altitude hiking and visiting the national parks of south and western Anatolia, mid-April to late May are perfect. For Black Sea region visits and swims, September will provide warmer water and the best weather. Visit Istanbul all year round, but we love the Spring or Autumn for a city break to Istanbul.
How much does one of your Turkey tours cost?
We don’t currently offer small-group Turkey tours, focusing instead on private tailor-made tours which start from around £550 per person per day for a 2 person trip.
Is Turkey safe for travelers?
Yes, Turkey is very safe for tourists. As specialists who have run dozens of tours since 2015, we can confirm:
This is a country with an outstandingly low crime rate against tourists - safer than the UK, Sweden or Norway;
It’s safe for solo female travelers;
We have an 100% safety record, with no serious incidents in 10 years. We provide 24/7 emergency support, satellite phones or Starlink access in remote areas, and have years of experience living and working across the region, meaning we create our trips using first-hand knowledge.
Do I need a visa for Turkey?
Travellers from the US, EU, NZ, Canada, Singapore and citizens of many other countries do NOT need a visa for stays up to 90 days. Australian and many nationalities can gain an Evisa before arrival.
What’s the best way to fly to Turkey?
There can be few countries that are better connected than Turkey. From across the world, Turkish Airlines provide reliable services via Istanbul to almost every country of Central Asia and the Caucasus. Fly Pegasus are a cheaper option, whilst many legacy (eg. British Airways, Etihad, Emirates, Singapore, Air China etc) and low-cost airlines (Easyjet, Wizz etc) also connect to several airports across Turkey.
What's included in your Turkey trips?
Every Silk Road Adventures Turkey tailor-made trip includes:
Pre-trip planning consultation with Marley or Antonia
Brilliant, experienced English-speaking guides, personally chosen by us
Comfortable accommodation in quality hotels and authentic guesthouses
Ground transportation in high-quality 4x4 vehicles
Most meals, featuring plenty of local cuisine
All activity, historical site and national park fees
Emergency support where required
Comprehensive pre-departure information in the Vamoos app format, with regular updates, articles, playlists, films and all of our personal recommendations along your route
NOT included: International flights, visa fees (if required), travel insurance, some lunches, drinks, tips.
How fit do I need to be for travel in Turkey?
This very much depends on the type of trip you are seeking! You will generally need to have good mobility at the very least, and be able to walk in cities and on rough ground at a reasonable pace. In remote areas, roads and footpaths can be rough. For your tailor-made trip, we will of course design this around your interests, wishes and abilities.