Days
21
Price from
Let Iran and Turkey leave a lasting memory with a historic adventure
Let the historic wonder of Iran and Turkey capture your imagination on a 21-day small-group adventure. Culturally, historically and religiously, these two countries have so much to offer – from the merchant town of Kashan and the Zoroastrian heritage in Yazd to the continent-straddling city of Istanbul and the eerie and unusual landscapes in Cappadocia – your journey through these Middle Eastern neighbours will sure not disappoint. Combine this with time spent cruising the sparkling Aegean Sea, eating with local families in the Iranian countryside and making Turkish favourites like manti (traditional dumplings), and your glimpse into Iran and Turkey will illuminate a whole other world, full of architectural marvels, historical significance and charming hospitality.
- Code
- PGETC
- Physical rating
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1, Max 12
Peregrine trips are now operated by Intrepid Travel
Why you'll love this trip
-
Explore one of the greatest cities of antiquity: Persepolis. The relief carvings and towering columns will leave you in no doubt that this was once the centre of the known world.
-
Once a major stop on the Silk Road, visit Yazd and discover the role religion plays in the city, from the impressive Jameh Mosque to the Zoroastrian towers and temples.
-
Step back in time at Ephesus, where the Greco-Roman world still feels very much alive. This is one of the best-preserved classical cities in all of Europe and is yet to be completely excavated.
-
Laze around on the Aegean Coast in Bodrum. Imagine bougainvillea, white-washed walls, boat cruises on a traditional gulet and fresh seafood – this is living.
-
Be mesmerised by the lunar landscape of Cappadocia and explore an underground city, and discover why Istanbul is renowned as one of the most multicultural and engaging cities in the world.
Is this trip right for you?
-
Iran and Turkey are both big countries and we cover a lot of ground in them, which means a few long travel days. All land travel is in private air-conditioned buses with regular stops along the way.
-
Before travelling to Iran, we recommend that you refer to your governments travel advisory before booking any tours to Iran, as this may affect insurance policies.
-
Part of travelling with Peregrine means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. It is very important that you adhere to a strict dress code – particularly for women – in what may be quite warm weather. Upon arrival in Iran, all women must wear a headscarf and must also have their arms and legs covered. Men must also be conservatively dressed.
-
Alcohol is strictly forbidden in Iran and severe penalties will be incurred by anyone attempting to bring it into the country. Drug laws are also extremely strict, and travellers face lengthy jail terms if caught. If found, pork, obscene material (even glossy magazines showing people in immodest poses), and controversial literature will all be confiscated by custom officials. Upon arrival, you as a foreigner will likely be whisked through customs but note that random bag checks do occur.
-
In Iran it's becoming increasingly difficult to confirm our preferred hotels due to limited 4-star options. While we will always look to the next suitable alternative, in some cases these may not be centrally located. It's important to note that local star ratings are not necessarily equivalent to those you are familiar with. In some locations the 3-star hotels are of a better quality (and in a better location) than the 4-star ones.
-
This trip involves a lot of walking, sometimes on rocky or slippery terrain. Please bring sturdy walking shoes. You also have the option to sit out many of the walks, if you don't feel up to them.
-
Turkey can get hot in the summer months of July and August but this is normally a dry heat and is easier to cope with than humidity. Where possible, you'll be taken to sites in the early morning before it gets too hot. Turkey can also get quite cool, particularly night time temperatures in April and October. Not all hotels will have heating so make sure to bring a few warm items with you.
-
In 2021, Ramadan will take place from 12 April to 11 May. Travelling during this holy month can be a rewarding cultural experience. However, some regular services may not be available during the daytime, such as restaurants or coffee bars, and occasionally travel can be disrupted by events. Your leader will adjust the itinerary accordingly, but please consider your travel arrangements carefully before booking travel for this period.
Gallery
Itinerary
Welcome to Iran! You will be met at Tehran Airport by a local driver for a transfer to your hotel (approximately 1 hour). You may arrive in Tehran at any time today, with hotel rooms are generally available after 12 pm (midday) and an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. Until then, the rest of your day is free to explore your surroundings. Home to 15 million people, Tehran is exciting, noisy and chaotic – it’s the country's beating heart. Highly recommended today is to visit the Treasury of National Jewels – be sure to time your visit, as it is closed on some days. In the evening, you could take a seat at a coffee shop or find a local restaurant for dinner – be sure to ask your group leader for their recommendations.
Accommodation
- Tehran Grand Hotel II or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Special Information
An airport arrival transfer is included. This transfer is only valid if arriving on day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Peregrine. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 15 days prior to travel. Once you have provided your details a transfer representative will be booked to meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.Please note that we use a local supplier for your arrival airport transfer. As tourism is a developing industry in Iran, your driver may not speak English.
Continue discovering of Tehran with a full-day tour, beginning at the World Heritage-listed Golestan Palace – an opulent masterpiece of the Qajar era embodying early Persian design. Continue with a stroll through Tehran's bustling bazaar before visiting the National Museum. While it may not look as inspiring as other city buildings from the outside, inside is a treasure trove of Iran's rich history. Keep your eye out for the Salt Man from Zanjan – preserved in salt for centuries.
Accommodation
- Tehran Grand Hotel II or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Tehran - City Tour
- Tehran - National Museum of Iran
- Tehran - Golestan Palace
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that the Treasury of National Jewels is closed on Wednesday and Thursdays and is not included today. If you would like to visit this museum, it is open from Saturday to Tuesday, so we suggest allowing time either on Day 1 or at the end of your Iran adventure.
Drive to Kashan in the morning – a merchant town known for its high-quality ceramics, silks, carpets and fine houses. Visit the lush Bagh-e Tarikhi-ye Fin (Fin Garden), a classical Persian garden that contains Kashan's Fin Bath. This is where Amir Kabir – the Qajarid chancellor and a nationalist hero – was murdered under the orders of King Nadir al-Din in 1852. Spend time at the fascinating Tabataei House. Built in the 1840s for the affluent Tabatabaei family, exceptional attention was paid to every architectural detail of this building as dictated by the geography and climate of the area. Spend the evening in Kashan and experience Iranian hospitality as your group shares an evening meal with a local family, before spending the night in a traditional Iranian-style house.
Accommodation
- Morshedi House II or Morshedi House I or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Kashan -Tabatabaei Historical House
- Kashan - Bazaar
- Kashan - Fin Gardens (entrance fee and guide)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
After breakfast, depart for the ancient desert city of Yazd. Once a major stop on so-called caravan routes to Central Asia and India during the Silk Road period, it's also known as the heart of the Zoroastrian religion. Stop en route in the quiet town of Ardestan, located on the edge of the central deserts. This small village has retained a lot of its charm – it’s full of old clay houses sitting on top of underground aqueducts which draw water from the mountains to the plains. Continue to Aqda to enjoy a Persian lunch in a beautifully restored house. Relax over lunch and maybe take a walk through the village. Arriving in Yazd in the late afternoon, indulging your sweet tooth with a visit to a renowned confectionery maker at Haj Khalifeh Ali Rahbar. Taste generations of expertise at the oldest and most well-known sweet shop in the city, where treats are made with traditional techniques. Spend the evening in a classic hotel in Yazd.
Accommodation
- Dad Hotel (Feature Stay) or Laleh Traditional Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Yazd - Aqda Traditional House Lunch
- Yazd - Traditional sweet shop visit and tasting
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Special Information
It is sometimes difficult to confirm your Feature Stay in Yazd, and for this reason, we have selected an alternative unique accommodation experience in Yazd, which is the Laleh Hotel. If you would like to confirm in advance which hotel your tour will stay at, please check with a Peregrine booking agent 30 days prior to departure.
Explore the old part of the city in the morning, heading to the Amir Chakmaq complex, and walking through the narrow kuches (lanes), past courtyards, ornate doors and mud-brick buildings. One of the most distinctive features of Yazd is the badgirs (wind towers) that capture even the softest of breezes before sending them to the buildings below. It’s an ancient air conditioning! Afterwards, visit two vestiges of Yazd’s Zoroastrian heritage on a trip to the Fire Temple and the Towers of Silence. Zoroastrianism, dating back over 4000 years, was the state religion of Iran before the arrival of Islam. In Zoroastrian, fire and water are agents of ritual purity, and the fire in the Atashkadeh Fire Temple is said to have been continuously burning since AD470. Tonight, enjoy a special dinner experience, travelling to the village of Taft to the house of Nartitee. Here, every corner of this small village home tells a story. Among the house’s pomegranate and tamarind trees, experience remnants of a 2500-year-old culture as you enjoy a simple meal.
Accommodation
- Dad Hotel (Feature Stay) or Laleh Traditional Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Yazd - Zoroastrian Fire Altar and Towers of Silence
- Yazd - Amir Chakhmaq Complex
- Yazd - City Tour
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
This morning, travel from Yazd to Shiraz (approximately 6 hours). On the way, stop at the ice houses of Abarkuh. Ice houses were known in Iran as early as the 17th century BC and used as recently as 50 years ago. The Abarkuh Cyprus is the focal point of this village and is believed to be 4500 years old – a popular symbol of 'life and beauty'. Relax a while and gaze on the beauty of this tree – said to be the oldest living organism in Iran. Continue to Shiraz, arriving in the late afternoon.
Accommodation
- Parsian Shiraz or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Abarkooh - Cypress of Abarkooh
- Abarkooh - Ice Houses
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Today is dedicated to exploring Shiraz. Many of the local ruins date from around AD260 where Valerian, the only Roman emperor to have ever been a prisoner of war, lived out his last days in captivity. Rise early this morning to catch the first rays of the sun as it seeps in through the stained glass of the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque. Continue to the Vakil Bazaar and the Khan citadel. Bazaar-e Vakil is regarded as one of the best markets in the country, specialising in fine carpets, handicrafts, textiles and spices. This afternoon, visit the vast complex of Bagh-e Eram, known as the Garden of Paradise. Wander the grounds where artificial rivers run through the cypress trees before pooling in front of a colourful palace. Afterwards, visit the tombs of literary and folk hero Hafez and Sa'di. Nearby is the Aramgah-e Shah-e Cheragh – one of the holiest sites in Shiraz. The structure serves as a mausoleum to one of Imam Reza’s brothers and the forecourt is often packed with Shiite pilgrims. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries.
Accommodation
- Parsian Shiraz or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Shiraz - Saadi and Hafez Tombs
- Shiraz - Eram Garden
- Shiraz - City Tour
- Shiraz - Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Begin the day with a drive to the remains of Persepolis (approximately 1 hour) – once the centre of the Persian Empire and considered as one of the great cities of the ancient world. The Takhte Jamshid complex of palaces was known as the historic marvel of the country, constructed over 150 years as the ceremonial capital of Darius I’s Achaemenid Empire. Continue on to Naqsh-e-Rajab – the site of four limestone rock face inscriptions and bas-reliefs that date to early Sassanid times. While today only small ruins remain from those once-magnificent structures, the site is still impressive. This evening, you have the option to participate in a highly recommended hands-on cooking class. The class is held in a local home and runs for approximately 3-4 hours, with all directions and recipes provided in English. You may also choose to explore the town and enjoy an Iranian meal in a restaurant.
Accommodation
- Parsian Shiraz or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Persepolis - Entrance and guided tour
- Persepolis - Naqsh-e Rustam Necropolis
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Depart from Shiraz and head towards Esfahan (approximately a 6-hour drive). Along the way, stop for a guided tour of Pasargadae – an ancient city built by Cyrus the Great that precedes Persepolis. It’s may not be as well preserved as Persepolis, but still reflects the architectural genius of the Achaemenids, its beauty of simplicity and balance. This afternoon, arrive in Esfahan, and in the evening, take a stroll down to the Zayandeh River and witness the historic bridges arching over the water. The stunning Si-o-Seh Pol (bridge of 33 arches) lights up at night, best viewed either on the banks of the river or at a local teahouse. While away some time in this magical location, truly one of the most atmospheric that Iran has to offer.
Accommodation
- Keryas Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Pasargad - Pasargadae (entrance fee and guide)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
There’s plenty of time to soak up the sights and atmosphere of Esfahan, often considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Esfahan reached its peak during the reign of Shah Abbas I in 1587 when it was declared the capital of Persia, yet much of its past glory still remains despite the country’s capital later being shifted to Shiraz and then Tehran. Begin today’s adventure through Esfahan with a guided walk through the Imam Square. Covering an area of 82,500 square meters, it’s the second-largest in the world. There are many grand buildings in the surrounding area such as the Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Qeysarieh Portal and the majestic Imam Mosque. Otherwise, the rest of the day is free for more independent exploring of the city.
Accommodation
- Keryas Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Esfahan - Qeysarie Bazaar
- Esfahan - Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
- Esfahan - Naqsh-e Jahan Square
- Esfahan - Ali Qapu Palace
- Esfahan - City Tour
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Continue discovering Esfahan with a guided visit to the Vank Cathedral, located in the Armenian quarter of the city. The striking interior of this building boasts gilded ceilings, intricate wall architecture and eye-catching paintings. The artwork of the dome depicts the Biblical story of Genesis, from the creation of man to the expulsion from the Garden of Eden. The church also plays home to a museum, full of historic manuscripts. Originally, Armenian Christians were brought to the cathedral by Shah Abbas I who placed great value in their skills as artists and merchants. They have been allowed to practice their religion in peace but are confined to this single area of the city. The rest of the afternoon is free. Why not visit the city bazaar – an easy place to get lost among its appealing colours and aromas.
Accommodation
- Keryas Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Esfahan - Vank Cathedral
Meals Included
- Breakfast
After breakfast this morning, begin the journey back to Tehran, stopping in Iran's second holiest city for the opportunity to visit the Shirne of Fatima Masumeh. On arrival back in Tehran, and after checking in to the hotel, head to the Tabiat Nature Bridge for the afternoon. Spend some time relaxing over a light meal at one of the many restaurants by Ports Park, situated on one side of the bridge. On the other, the rolling trees of Taleghani Park offer a great opportunity for a stroll.
Accommodation
- Tehran Grand Hotel II or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Qom - Orientation walk
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
This morning transfer to Tehran International Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Due to flight schedules it is likely that this will be a very early flight. Your leader in Iran will provide all flight details for you. Welcome to Istanbul; the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans have called home. Meet your new leader and group today at a welcome meeting at 1 pm.
Accommodation
- Legacy Ottoman Hotel (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque
- Istanbul - Grand Bazaar
Optional Activities
- Istanbul - Basilica Cistern - TRY30
- Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - TRY50
- Istanbul - Dolmabahce Palace (Excluding Harem) - TRY60
- Istanbul - Whirling Dervish show - TRY135
- Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - Free
- Istanbul - Chora Church - TRY65
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.Special Information
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and meet your new fellow travellers.
Transfer to the airport after breakfast for a 1-hour flight to Bodrum, a modern resort town that was once the ancient city of Halicarnassus. Here, along the southern end of Turkey's Aegean coast, lies the original Mauosoluem, which the group will visit during an afternoon walking tour of Saint Peter's Castle, the Underwater Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Theatre and Mindos Gate. Potentially finish up at Cevat Sakir Caddesi, a main thoroughfare surrounded by alleys and streets hosting the local fish markets and a number of mayhanes (taverns), where you can select your own catch of the day and have it prepared for dinner.
Accommodation
- Manastir Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Bodrum - Bodrum Castle
Optional Activities
- Bodrum- Daily Cooking Class & Market Visit - EUR85
- Bodrum - Mausoleum at Halicarnassus - TRY12
Meals Included
- Breakfast
There's a reason Bodrum is considered a boating paradise. Spend a day sailing off the beautiful peninsula on a gulet, a traditional wooden sailing vessel originating in this area. Sit back on the deck and soak up some sun as the boat sails down the coast with stops to swim, snorkel and explore the shore, as well as a break at the small island of Kara Ada. Enjoy lunch on board and a relaxing afternoon before returning to the hotel in the evening.
Accommodation
- Manastir Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Bodrum - Gulet/Boat Excursion
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Drive to Selcuk this morning after breakfast (approximately 3 hours). Check into the hotel then take a walk through this sprawling town lying at the base of the ancient fortress on Ayasoluk Hill. Visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis and the 14th-century Isabey Mosque, then journey to gorgeous little village of Sirince, nestled in the hills outside Selcuk. This was a predominantly Greek village before WWI and the narrow streets host beautifully decorated houses, silversmiths, leather shops, jewellers and market stands. Enjoy a special Peregrine Moment and meet Pervin, from whom you'll learn the art of manti (Turkish ravioli) whilst relaxing over a glass of the local fruit wine.
Accommodation
- Kalehan Hotel or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
- Selcuk - Basilica of St John - TRY25
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Wake up early this morning to beat the crowds and head to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Med and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world. Tour around the amphitheatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and beautifully restored Library of Celsus. Return to the hotel to relax before checking out and heading to the Ephesus Museum, then transfer to Izmir for an overnight train to Konya, in Central Anatolia. The train will arrive in Konya at 7.30 am, so enjoy the first-class sleeping compartments and included dinner in the restaurant car (with backgammon lessons courtesy of your Peregrine leader).
Accommodation
- Konya Mavi Train (1 night)
Included Activities
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
- Overnight Train - Backgammon Lessons (Peregrine Moment)
Optional Activities
- Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - TRY45
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
The overnight train journey on this trip between Selcuk and Cappadocia is first class. Cabins are twin-share, have individual climate control, a small refrigerator and a sink. Toilets are available at each end of the carriage. Bedding is supplied. There is a restaurant car available offering basic snacks. Single supplement is available for this leg of the journey, too.
Arrive early in Konya, an important Roman city, and tuck into a full Turkish kahvalti (breakfast). Konya is the home of the mystic Sufi practice of whirling and after breakfast you'll visit the mausoleum of Mevlana, a famous mystic, as well as the museum housing manuscripts of his work and various mystic artefacts before driving three hours to the captivating region of Cappadocia. Check in to the hotel then head out with your leader to stretch your legs on a valley walk. Your leader has their own special place to introduce you to.
Accommodation
- Heybe Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Konya - Mevlana Museum
- Cappadocia - Valley walk
- Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
Optional Activities
- Goreme -Hamam Turkish Bath - EUR25
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
If you would like to organise a hot-air balloon flight for tomorrow morning you must speak to your leader at the welcome meeting on Day 1.
This mornig you can choose whether to take an optional hot air balloon rise over Cappadocia. Even if you don't choose to take a flight, it's worth getting up just to see the balloons rising with the sun. Have a relaxing breakfast from your terrace overlooking the valley then visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, which features houses, churches and monasteries carved into the soft cliff faces. Later in the afternoon, take a guided tour of Kaymakli, a troglodyte cave-city. Next, meet a local rug master and learn about the strong tradition of rug making from early nomadic styles to now. Head back to the hotel in Goreme. The rest of your day is free. Maybe take a relaxing Turkish bath to unwind after a long day experiencing some truly incredible history.
Accommodation
- Heybe Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
- Goreme - Carpet Demonstration
- Cappadocia -Kaymakli Underground City
- Cappadocia - Goreme - Open Air Museum
Optional Activities
- Goreme - Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia Deluxe Flight - EUR250
- Goreme - Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia Regular Flight - EUR195
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
If you would like to organise a hot-air balloon flight for tomorrow morning you must speak to your leader at the welcome meeting on Day 1.
Drive to the airport after breakfast for a 1.5-hour flight back to Istanbul. Transfer to your hotel on arrival and enjoy a free afternoon. In the evening take the ferry to Kadikoy on Istanbul's Asian shore. Take a walk around this lively area and find a harbourside spot for dinner with your travelling companions.
Accommodation
- Legacy Ottoman Hotel (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Your trip ends today after breakfast and there are no activities planned.
Optional Activities
- Istanbul - Bosphorus Cruise (Full Day / Hotel Pick Up and Lunch on Board) Prices start from - TRY30
- Istanbul - Galata Tower - TRY35
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Meals
19 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinnersTransport
Private vehicle, Plane, Overnight trainAccommodation
Comfortable Standard Hotel (17 nights) Feature Stay Dad Hotel Yadz (2 nights) Feature Stay Legacy Ottoman Istanbul (2 nights) Overnight Train (1 night)Included Activities
- Tehran - City Tour
- Tehran - National Museum of Iran
- Tehran - Golestan Palace
- Kashan -Tabatabaei Historical House
- Kashan - Bazaar
- Kashan - Fin Gardens (entrance fee and guide)
- Yazd - Aqda Traditional House Lunch
- Yazd - Traditional sweet shop visit and tasting
- Yazd - Zoroastrian Fire Altar and Towers of Silence
- Yazd - Amir Chakhmaq Complex
- Yazd - City Tour
- Abarkooh - Cypress of Abarkooh
- Abarkooh - Ice Houses
- Shiraz - Saadi and Hafez Tombs
- Shiraz - Eram Garden
- Shiraz - City Tour
- Shiraz - Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
- Persepolis - Entrance and guided tour
- Persepolis - Naqsh-e Rustam Necropolis
- Pasargad - Pasargadae (entrance fee and guide)
- Esfahan - Qeysarie Bazaar
- Esfahan - Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
- Esfahan - Naqsh-e Jahan Square
- Esfahan - Ali Qapu Palace
- Esfahan - City Tour
- Esfahan - Vank Cathedral
- Qom - Orientation walk
- Istanbul - Blue Mosque
- Istanbul - Grand Bazaar
- Bodrum - Bodrum Castle
- Bodrum - Gulet/Boat Excursion
- Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
- Overnight Train - Backgammon Lessons (Peregrine Moment)
- Konya - Mevlana Museum
- Cappadocia - Valley walk
- Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
- Goreme - Carpet Demonstration
- Cappadocia -Kaymakli Underground City
- Cappadocia - Goreme - Open Air Museum
Essential trip information
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip Information