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Trips Starting from Istanbul
4.13 (684 reviews)
160 Tours
When do you want to go?
2026
I'm flexible
Passengers
Adults (18+)
Children (0 - 17)
Discover Turkey trips visiting Istanbul
From the Old City to the Bosphorus, Istanbul sets the tone for a rich Turkey journey.
Istanbul is where many Turkey itineraries begin, with deep history and daily street life, great food, and busy markets. Trips that visit Istanbul can be short city getaways or longer, multi stop journeys, and you can choose how much help you want. Some are fully guided, some are partly guided, and some are semi-independent or self-guided. Many vacations stay in Sultanahmet, close to the top sights, and some add a Bosphorus cruise for a fresh view of the skyline. A few Turkey trips are multi-country, and may also visit Greece, Bulgaria and Egypt. Even then, time in Istanbul keeps the focus on the city’s best spots, and it is a simple start to a longer route.
Turkey trips starting from Istanbul
Signature Journeys
This On The Go Tours Signature Journey is operated in conjunction with our local partners and On The Go Tours accredited expert guides, to deliver you an unforgettable tour.
This tour is led by a dedicated tour guide or tour leader who stays with you throughout the entire journey. From start to finish, they manage logistics, offer insights at every stop, and are on hand to assist with anything you need. You may also enjoy sightseeing with local expert guides, as per the Inclusions. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$151From
$2,505pp
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$121From
$1,135pp
Signature Journeys
This On The Go Tours Signature Journey is operated in conjunction with our local partners and On The Go Tours accredited expert guides, to deliver you an unforgettable tour.
This tour is led by a dedicated tour guide or tour leader who stays with you throughout the entire journey. From start to finish, they manage logistics, offer insights at every stop, and are on hand to assist with anything you need. You may also enjoy sightseeing with local expert guides, as per the Inclusions. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$157From
$2,345pp
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$110From
$1,290pp
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$156From
$1,280pp
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$151From
$2,120pp
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$103From
$1,205pp
Worldwide Touring
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
This tour is led by a dedicated tour guide or tour leader who stays with you throughout the entire journey. From start to finish, they manage logistics, offer insights at every stop, and are on hand to assist with anything you need. You may also enjoy sightseeing with local expert guides, as per the Inclusions. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Price per day
$228From
$3,755pp
Travel with confidence
Real reviews from our travelers
Gallipoli & Troy - 4 daysOver four days, discover some of Turkey’s most poignant and legendary sites. Begin in vibrant Istanbul, with time to wander its historic streets before travelling to the Gallipoli Peninsula to explore ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, and other memorials that honour the soldiers who fought here in WWI. Continue to the ancient city of Troy, where nine layers of history reveal tales from 3,000 BC and the epic battles immortalised in Homer’s Iliad. Return to Istanbul for your final morning, with the option to extend your stay and delve deeper into this captivating city’s treasures.Worldwide Touring4Our guide Boruk for Gallipoli was sensational… the right mix of knowledge, fun and respect! He was the perfect guide! The trip to Troy was very unexpected, an incredible site with ancient relics and also a great guide. We were the last on the bus and ended up in the back seat in the corner with the least room.. a long drive sitting cramped! On the way back we chose different seats and this made it much more enjoyable.
Highlights of Turkey - 9 daysDiscover Turkey on this 9-day tour, from the historic treasures of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Visit iconic sites like the Blue Mosque and Gallipoli’s battlefields, then explore ancient Troy, Pergamum, and the remarkably preserved ruins of Ephesus. See the striking white terraces of Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis before heading to Cappadocia, renowned for its fairy chimneys, cave churches, and underground cities, and then return to Istanbul. Signature Journeys9Cappaddocia was the stand out, just so different. Enjoyed Troy & Pammakale Actually really enjoyed the whole tour, thought it had a nice flow, choice of stops were good, and the half day down time in the middle was really nicely timed after a long day on the coach before. Gallipoli was a little repetitive - it was nice to see the memorials - but one or two would have been plenty the hotel in Cappaddocia could have been a little cleaner
Turkey Unplugged - 10 DaysEmbark on a 10-day journey through Turkey, beginning and ending in Istanbul. Explore the Old City’s Ottoman and Byzantine past before heading to Gallipoli’s poignant WW1 sites. Step into legend at Troy, marvel at ancient Ephesus, and bathe in the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. In surreal Cappadocia, discover cave dwellings, underground cities and fairy chimneys, with the chance to take a magical hot air balloon ride. From bustling bazaars to ancient ruins and natural wonders, this tour offers a rich mix of history, landscapes and unforgettable Turkish hospitality.Signature Journeys10We loved the whole tour but our time in Istanbul and Cappadocia were the standouts. I think the time in Gallopoli was a little rushed, especially for the Australians and New Zealanders on the tour. More time here would have been good.
Turkey Discovered - 14 DaysExperience the best of Turkey on this 14-day adventure from Istanbul to Cappadocia and back. Discover the historic wonders of Istanbul’s Old City, pay tribute at Gallipoli, and walk through the legendary ruins of Troy and Ephesus. Soak in the thermal terraces of Pamukkale, cruise to Turtle Beach, and relax on the Turquoise Coast in Fethiye. Marvel at Antalya’s old town charm and delve into mystical Konya. In Cappadocia, explore surreal valleys and ancient cave dwellings, with the chance for a hot air balloon ride. The tour ends with time in the Ottoman gem of Safranbolu and a final stroll through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.
Worldwide Touring14All of it was good. Pace was about right.
Istanbul & Cappadocia Discovery (5 Star) - 7 daysSpend seven days discovering two of Turkey's most popular attractions, with a great mix of guided sightseeing and free time. In Istanbul, take in highlights such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and opt for a cruise on the Bosphorus. Then, take an included flight to Cappadocia, where you can explore the ancient underground cities and churches carved into rock formations. End with a flight back to Istanbul.Worldwide Touring7The Blue Mask and the Hippodrome and the Basilico system. Just take walks and enjoy the views. Having to pay extra for entrance fees.
Turkey Unplugged - 10 DaysEmbark on a 10-day journey through Turkey, beginning and ending in Istanbul. Explore the Old City’s Ottoman and Byzantine past before heading to Gallipoli’s poignant WW1 sites. Step into legend at Troy, marvel at ancient Ephesus, and bathe in the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. In surreal Cappadocia, discover cave dwellings, underground cities and fairy chimneys, with the chance to take a magical hot air balloon ride. From bustling bazaars to ancient ruins and natural wonders, this tour offers a rich mix of history, landscapes and unforgettable Turkish hospitality.Signature Journeys10Guide was very knowledgeable and the driver very good too. Could have spent more time at Efesus, pamukkale (no time to go to museum and archeological sites) and more time in Cappadocia. Cultural eve at end in Cappadocia was wonderful. Places with 2. Nights at a place was good to regroup to an extent The days before and after Cappadocia were too long driving. Share more on places & activities with hard currency cash as pa.
Turkey Unplugged - 10 DaysEmbark on a 10-day journey through Turkey, beginning and ending in Istanbul. Explore the Old City’s Ottoman and Byzantine past before heading to Gallipoli’s poignant WW1 sites. Step into legend at Troy, marvel at ancient Ephesus, and bathe in the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. In surreal Cappadocia, discover cave dwellings, underground cities and fairy chimneys, with the chance to take a magical hot air balloon ride. From bustling bazaars to ancient ruins and natural wonders, this tour offers a rich mix of history, landscapes and unforgettable Turkish hospitality.Signature Journeys10Too many sales stores (carpet, leather, pottery and jewelry). The full day drives. Suggest leave Capadoccia earlier in the morning and make a stop half way to visit Bolu & visit old bazaar & tea by lake to break up the drive.
Totally Turkey (4 Star) - 8 daysDiscover the highlights of Turkey on this 8-day tour, beginning with guided sightseeing in Istanbul. Take in the underground cities and rock-cut churches of Cappadocia and spend three nights in Kusadasi, with included day trips to the Graeco-Roman ruins of Ephesus and the white cotton castles of Pamukkale. End your journey with an included flight back to Istanbul.Worldwide Touring8The whole itinerary was great but Cappadocia stood out the most. Most accommodation was acceptable but one hotel was tired and shabby with building work going on; after complaining we were moved to a much nicer hotel though. The quad bike tour recommended by one of our guides was not good value for money and we were overcharged too
Istanbul trips at a glance
Trip and guiding style
Trips visiting Istanbul include guided tours, city stays, and longer multi stop itineraries across Turkey. Some trips are fully guided, some are partly guided, and some are semi-independent or self-guided, so the support can fit your travel style.
Accommodation
Accommodation can change by itinerary, and may include 3 star, 4 star, and 5 star hotels, plus boutique hotels. Some trips also use an Ottoman Mansion home, a cave hotel in Cappadocia, or a gulet cruise. If places sell out, a hotel of a close match may be used, and star ratings can change by country.
Trip pacing
Pace can range from slow to fast, but many trips sit at a medium pace. Expect some early starts for key sights and travel days, most of all on short itineraries that cover more ground. Istanbul city stays can feel more relaxed, with a good mix of guided time and free time.
Popular tours visiting Istanbul
Why start in Istanbul
A great starting point for culture, food, and history across Turkey
Istanbul is a great start for Turkey vacations, as it gives you a quick feel for the country and its mix of cultures. You can see Ottoman sites and older Byzantine layers, all set in lively areas. Many itineraries include guided sightseeing here, which helps explain places like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, and it can make your first day feel easy. Trips visiting Istanbul often add time on the water, with a Bosphorus cruise that shows the skyline and how the city spans Europe and Asia. Beyond the top sights, Istanbul is also great for markets and food, and the Spice Market and Grand Bazaar fit well into most plans. Some itineraries are city stays with one base, and others link Istanbul with key regions across Turkey, so the city can be a short break or a strong first stop.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of trips visit Istanbul in Turkey?
Trips visiting Istanbul include guided tours, city stays, and longer multi stop itineraries across Turkey. Some focus on the Old City, and others use Istanbul as a start or end point before you travel on.
Do Istanbul trips include guided sightseeing?
Many Istanbul itineraries include guided sightseeing, and they often cover key sights and busy market areas. Guiding style can change by trip, and options can be fully guided, partly guided, semi-independent, or self-guided.
Which Istanbul sights are commonly included?
Common highlights in Istanbul include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Hippodrome, the Underground Cistern, and Topkapi Palace. Many itineraries also include time at the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market.
Is a Bosphorus cruise included on Turkey trips visiting Istanbul?
Some Turkey itineraries that visit Istanbul include a Bosphorus cruise, which is a great way to see the city from the water. What is in the plan can change by trip, so check each itinerary.
Are there trips that start and end in Istanbul?
Yes, there are itineraries that start in Istanbul and also end in Istanbul. This can make flights easier, and it suits travelers who want a round trip route within Turkey.
What is the group size like on Istanbul trips?
Group size can change by itinerary. Some trips are private for one party, while many group tours have set limits, and some city stays list group size as not applicable.
What is the pace like for trips visiting Istanbul?
Pace ranges from slow to fast, but many itineraries sit at a medium pace. City stays can feel more relaxed, while short routes that link Istanbul with other regions may have early starts and fuller days.
What is accommodation like on Istanbul itineraries?
Accommodation changes by itinerary, and a close match may be used if a hotel is not open or is sold out. Full accommodation details, like hotel style and grade, are in the trip notes for each itinerary.
Do Istanbul trips include meals?
Meals can change by itinerary. Some tours include daily breakfast and some lunches or dinners, while others include fewer meals, so check what is listed for your chosen itinerary.
Are there multi-country itineraries that still visit Istanbul?
Yes, some itineraries that visit Istanbul also visit other countries. These can include Greece, Bulgaria, Egypt and ANZAC Day, while still keeping Istanbul as a key stop in Turkey.
