Explore Turkey

Explore Turkey
Why Turkey? Because Turkey has it all.

The Cradle of Civilization, the Fertile Crescent between the Tigris and the Euphrates rivers- Black Sea, Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea coastlines provide superb beaches, crystal clear water for swimming, and magnificent scenery. Turkey is chockablock with ancient ruins from 9000BC Gobeklitepe to Bogazkale, the capital of the Hittite civilization (Hattusa), to the queen of ancient Roman ruins, Ephesus.

Cappadocia, with its unique landscape of conical rock formations and Pamukkale, with its pools of mineral water in whited terraces formed over the centuries from limestone deposits are geographical formations available only in Turkey. The Bosphorus, that legendary sliver of water that separates Europe and Asia and connects the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, the Ottoman masterpiece, Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern, a masterpiece of Byzantine engineering– makes Istanbul unique among the world’s great cities.

We have posted a variety of longer tours that explore larger areas of Turkey. Several more are available.

Contact us for information. info@barefootplustravel.com

A Taste of Turkey

This tour hits the three major tourist destinations in Turkey: Istanbul, the city that spans two continents and three civilizations; Ephesus, one of the world’s finest examples of an ancient classical city; and Cappadocia, with its unique geographical landscape. You will have just enough time in each to leave you wanting more.

Cappadocia Patchwork

Cappadocia, located in almost the geographic center of Turkey, is often called the jewel of Central Anatolia.  Its otherworldly landscape is hard to describe.  Perhaps moonscape says it best.

Cotton Castles

his Istanbul day trip provides an excellent opportunity to see another unique landscape in Turkey, Pamukkale, as well as visit the neighboring historical ruins of Hierapolis.

Discover Eastern Turkey

This is a comprehensive tour covering the major sites in Eastern Turkey, a diversity of landscapes and a glimpse of human history from Biblical times to the present day. Mt. Nemrut with its monuments of an ancient megalomaniac; Urfa, birthplace of the Prophet Abraham; Hasankeyf, soon to be lost under the flood waters of a new dam on the river Tigris; Van with its 3000 year old Urartian fortress; and Ishak Pasha’s pleasure palace in Dogubayazit overlooking the Plains of Ararat.  

Edirne Day Trip

A short drive from Istanbul, Edirne was the capital of the Ottoman Empire from 1361 to 1453 when Fatih Sultan Mehmet conquered Constantinople and made Constantinople his capital.  Edirne’s old city retains its medieval street plan, with its streets laid out in a grid.

Ephesus Whirlwind

This one day Istanbul to Ephesus tour allows those who don’t have time to spend several days exploring other sites in the Aegean area of Turkey, to visit Ephesus, one of the most important and best-preserved cities from the ancient world.

Harbor Hopping

This is an in-depth tour of the Gallipoli peninsula, the site of a major World War battle.

Hidden Village – Bursa

Istanbul Day Trip  Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, is also called Yesil (Green) Bursa for its parks and gardens with Uludag Mountain as a backdrop.  Bursa is the fourth largest city in Turkey today, a provincial capital and one of Turkey’s commercial centers.

Highlight of Western Turkey

This tour combines two days in Istanbul with seven days visiting the highlights of Western Turkey: Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamon, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Cappadocia.  

Istanbul Shore Excursions

  Istanbul is one of the most captivating destinations for cruise travelers. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning views, Istanbul continues to attract visitors from around the world. The city, with its historical landmarks, exquisite cuisine, and magnificent landscapes, offers an unforgettable experience. Let a coastal cruise become a memorable part of your journey in Istanbul.

Pearls of Istanbul

  Istanbul holds a unique place among the world’s great cities. Spanning two continents — Europe and Asia — it is unmatched in its geographical and historical significance. Its past encompasses the legacies of three major ancient civilizations: Roman, Greek, and Byzantine.    

St. Paul Trail

St. Paul Trail This is a 10 day, Grade C walking tour from Perge, once a wealthy Roman city, to Antioch-in-Pisidia,  an important city in