Essential Turkey Discovery
Holy Week 2025 (April 10 - 21)
Trip Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Turkey’s rich cultural and historical tapestry with our Essential Turkey Discovery! This tour is perfect for travelers who love exploring ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes, and taking postcard-worthy vacation photos.
Please note: this trip is focused on cultural and historical experiences and may not suit those seeking modern city shopping. Additionally, travel times via private bus can be long as we journey between destinations, so we encourage tour joiners to manage expectations and enjoy the scenic routes along the way.
Click here to view the FULL Itinerary
Click here to check out the 5 reasons that sets our Essential Turkey Discovery apart
Istanbul
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Ankara
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Cappadocia
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Konya
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Pamukkale
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Kusadasi
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Izmir
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Canakkale
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Istanbul 〰️ Ankara 〰️ Cappadocia 〰️ Konya 〰️ Pamukkale 〰️ Kusadasi 〰️ Izmir 〰️ Canakkale 〰️
April 10 | Day 0 - Departure from Manila
Your adventure begins with a comfortable evening flight aboard Turkish Airlines, taking you directly to Istanbul from NAIA Terminal 3.
We welcome you aboard TK’s B777-300ER in a 3-3-3 configuration wider than the standard 3-4-3 layout. The flight duration is 12h 25 mins. Sit back, relax, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime.
TK 85 | MNL - IST | 21:25 - 05:00+1
April 11 | Day 1 - Arrival in Istanbul and Transfer to Ankara
Welcome to Turkey! After breakfast at a local restaurant, enjoy a scenic drive to Ankara with Wi-Fi-equipped buses. Stop for snacks and money exchange along the way.
The journey to Ankara takes about 6 hours. Make sure to bring your bus ride essentials.
End the day at the New Park Ankara Hotel, where a delicious dinner awaits.
April 12 | Day 2 - Historical Ankara to Magical Cappadocia via Lake Tuz
Discover the legacy of Turkey’s founding father at Ataturk’s Mausoleum, followed by a photostop at the stunning salt flats of Lake Tuz.
The journey from Ankara to Cappadocia via Lake Tuz will be about 5 hours. Sit tight as we traverse through the scenic landscapes going to Cappadocia.
Arrive in magical Cappadocia and check into the charming Kalsedon Cave Suites, your home for two nights.
April 13 | Day 3 - Exploring Cappadocia
Wake up to the option of a once-in-a-lifetime Hot Air Balloon Tour over Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscape.
Then, visit the ancient Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with rock-cut churches and frescoes.
Explore the fascinating underground world of Cardak Underground City, a haven for early Christians. Admire the scenic beauty of Uchisar Pigeon Valley, and end the day with stops at Konak Jewelry and Yuksel Carpet Shopping to experience Turkish craftsmanship.
Return to the cave hotel for dinner and a restful evening.
April 14 | Day 4 - From Cappadocia To Konya And Pamukkale
Journey to Konya, the city of whirling dervishes, and visit the serene Mevlana Mausoleum, a place of spiritual reflection.
Stop at the Sultanhani Caravanserai, an ancient Silk Road inn.
Arrive in Pamukkale and unwind at the luxurious Ramada by Wyndham Thermal Resort, where you can soak in the region’s famous thermal waters.
The total travel time for the day will be about 9 hours. This will be the longest land transfer of the tour.
April 15 | Day 5 - Pamukkale’s Natural And Historical Marvels To Kusadasi
Begin the day by exploring the stunning Hierapolis Ancient City, where Roman ruins meet the famous travertine terraces of Pamukkale.
Walk through the Ruins of Necropolis and the grand Roman Baths.
Take scenic photos at the Cotton Castle of Pamukkale
Continue to Kusadasi, a lively coastal town, and settle into the beachfront Signature Blue Resort for a relaxing evening.
April 16 | Day 6 - Ephesus And Cultural Delights
Dive into the rich history of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
Walk in the footsteps of history at the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site of pilgrimage.
Learn about the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World through visiting its ruins.
Enjoy a shopping stop at Kircilar Leather Store, where Turkish leather craftsmanship shines.
Return to your resort for an evening by the sea.
April 17 | Day 7 - From Kusadasi To Ancient Troy And Canakkale
Travel to Izmir and visit the Agora of Smyrna, an ancient market showcasing Greece’s architectural legacy.
Take a cable car ride to the Pergamum Acropolis, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes.
End the day in Canakkale at the luxurious Kolin Hotel, where comfort and elegance await.
April 18 | Day 8 - Legendary Troy And Gallipoli To Istanbul
Step into mythology with a visit to Troy, home to the famous Trojan Horse.
Then, pay tribute to war heroes at the Gallipoli Museum, filled with stories of bravery and sacrifice.
Travel to back Istanbul and check in to the sophisticated Golden Tulip Istanbul Bayrampasa, setting the stage for your exploration of this vibrant city.
April 19 | Day 9 - Istanbul’s Timeless Treasures
Delve into Istanbul’s rich history with visits to the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, each a masterpiece of art and architecture. We have included entrance tickets for these marvelous attractions.
Shop for treasures at the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
End the day with a delightful dinner at Yanik Kosk Restaurant, overlooking the city’s magical skyline.
April 20 | Day 10 - A Perfect Farewell To Istanbul
We’ll be having a late start to your day to maximize your rest at the hotel.
The first destination is modern Istanbul at Taksim Square and enjoy panoramic views from the iconic Galata Tower.
Cap off your trip with a serene Bosphorus Cruise, where you’ll sail between Europe and Asia, soaking in the beauty of Istanbul.
After a final dinner at Olympos Galata, it’s time to head to the airport with memories that will last a lifetime.
April 21 | Day 11 - Farewell and Return to Manila
After an unforgettable journey through Turkey, it’s time to say goodbye.
We’ll depart Istanbul at 02:15 in the morning aboard the same Turkish Airlines 777 and enjoy a smooth 11-hour, 35-minute flight back to Manila.
We’ll arrive at 18:40 , filled with memories of an incredible adventure.
A heartfelt thank you to all our travelers for joining the Essential Turkey Discovery tour. We hope to see you again soon on another exciting journey—safe travels, and welcome home!
What People Are Saying
"Hand Carried makes vacation planning effortless—no stress, just perfectly planned trips that let you focus on making amazing memories!"
— Jen T.
"Essential Turkey Discovery is a journey through Turkey’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The trip is designed for first timers in Turkey who would like to avoid all the hassle and complications of planning.
It’s the perfect way to discover Turkey’s wonders while making lasting memories with a great group of fellow travelers."
— Jefferson T.
"Hand Carried ensures first-time travelers avoid rookie mistakes by providing all the right info—so your trip is stress-free and unforgettable!"
— Paolo E.
"Joining Hand Carried’s group departure tour isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the people.
Having a dedicated tour escort made all the difference, ensuring every detail was handled and every need met.
It felt like traveling with someone who truly had our back, turning the group trip into an unforgettable experience."
— John S.
FAQs
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The package includes the following
Roundtrip Air Tickets via Turkish Airlines with 1pc 30kg Check-In Baggage.
9 Nights Local 5 Star or Highest Category Available Hotel Accommodation based on Double / Twin Sharing
All Private Transfers via a Wi-Fi Enabled Bus
All Entrances as stated in the itinerary
10 Breakfast, 10 Lunch, and 10 Dinner as Stated in the Itinerary
Gratuities for Driver and Guide
ALL Applicable Taxes (Including P1620 PH Travel Tax)
Basic Travel Insurance
Daily Bottled Water
Filipino Tour Escort
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The only exclusions are:
Visa Fee
Hot Air Balloon (Optional Tour)
Personal Expenses
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Yes, Philippine passport holders require a visa for Turkey. Depending on your qualifications, you can apply for an E-visa or a sticker visa.
Learn more about the Turkish Visa Requirements here -
Yes! Regardless of the number of passengers, Essential Turkey Discovery will push through.
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A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required to confirm your booking. Full payment is due 60 days before the departure date.
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Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate a variety of physical abilities. However, some sites may involve walking on uneven surfaces.
This tour will require a lot of walking. For seniors who require wheelchair assistance, please inform us in advance.
Do note that there will be some activities that won’t be suitable such as the Hot Air Balloon Tour. -
This tour is designed to maximize your experience, so there are no fully free days. However, there’s some downtime in the evenings for relaxation.
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Yes! There will be stops at places like Grand Bazaar, Konak Jewelry, and Kircilar Leather Store for authentic Turkish products.ion
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Our trips are non-refundable and non-rebookable—no refunds for unused tours, transportation, hotels, or flights.
Once the deposit is made, there’s no turning back. Cancellations made 60 days or less before departure will result in the forfeiture of both the deposit and full payment.
However, these are transferrable provided that the cancellation is made 30 days prior to the departure date. -
Turkey in April typically has mild, pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing. It’s recommended to bring layers for varying temperatures.
Expect the weather to be between 10-20 degrees celsius -
No, the hot air balloon tour is optional. It’s perfect for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience but not required for the itinerary.
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Yes, please inform us in advance so we can make arrangements for your meals.