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Map of Explore Iran & Turkey including Turkey and Iran, Islamic Republic Of

Be spoiled by the offerings of Iran and Turkey, rich in historical sites, memorable culture, and charming hospitality

Explore two of the most historically and culturally rich countries in the world, places where numerous empires, conquerors and civilisations have left their mark. Go behind the headlines and uncover the true Iran, a welcoming country of open-hearted people redefining the word ‘hospitality’. From breath-taking mosques to stepped hillside villages, Ancient Persepolis and Zoroastrian towers, the beauty of the Iranian landscape is a reflection of its inhabitants. Journey to Turkey, a tantalisingly exotic country that mixes the cosmopolitan delights of Istanbul with ancient cities and natural wonders. Visit a dazzling architectural world, from the Blue Mosque and Ephesus, to the bizarre rock-landscape of Cappadocia. Come on a rewarding adventure that takes in one of the world’s least-visited countries.

Start
Tehran, Iran
Finish
Istanbul, Turkey
Destinations
Turkey, Iran
Style
Peregrine
Code
PGITC
Physical rating
Trip rating
1 review
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 12

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

  • Spend two nights at our 'feature stay' hotel in Yazd; an old renovated caravanserai that dates back to nearly a century ago

  • Soak up the sights and atmosphere of the jewel in the crown of Persia, the beautiful town of Esfahan.

  • 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 yet to be completely excavated

  • Spend some time reflecting on battles fought and lives lost in Gallipoli. This peaceful place has seen many atrocities due to its significant role in WW1

  • Enjoy two nights at 'feature stay' hotel in Selcuk /Ephesus a rustic boutique style series of old Ottoman residences renovated in an authentic and unique style 

  • Be mesmerised by the lunar landscape of Cappadocia and explore an underground city  

  • Visit the iconic 17th century Blue Mosque, with its unusual number of six minarets and striking collection of Iznik tiles

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.

Celsus ruins of Ephesus in Turkey
Light aqua tones of the Pamakkale hot spring terraces
Aerial view of various plates of Turkish food
Intricate detail of mosque ceiling in Esfahan
Shah Cheragh building in distance on sunny day in Shiraz
Blue Mosque
Persepolis.jpg
Rainbow tones inside the Vakil mosque in Shiraz

Itinerary
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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 or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Istanbul - City Tour
  • Istanbul - Blue Mosque
Optional Activities
  • Istanbul - Archaeology Museum - TRY50
  • Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts - TRY50
  • Istanbul - Hagia Sophia - TRY100
  • Istanbul - Great Palace Mosaic Museum - TRY30
  • Istanbul - Galata Tower - TRY35
  • Istanbul - Topkapi Palace (Excluding Harem) - TRY72
  • Istanbul - Basilica Cistern - TRY30
  • Istanbul - Chora Church - TRY65
  • Istanbul - Dolmabahce Palace (Excluding Harem) - TRY60
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.

Rise and shine for an early breakfast, then begin the drive to Çanakkale. located on the shores of the Dardanelles (the strait that connects Europe and Asia via the Gelibolu Peninsula and the Biga Peninsula). Arrive in time to buy yourself some lunch, then head to the Gallipoli Peninsula. Visit the cemeteries of Anzac Cove, then head up the hill toward the poignant memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair. Look down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for so many thousands of young men on both sides. Tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. After a day that will no doubt be full of sombre reflection, the evening is free for you to do as you wish in Canakkale.
Accommodation
  • Grand Anzac Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Driving time today: approximately 5 hours

Drive to Selcuk with a stop en route in Troy. Here legend and history fuse together, and you can see both ancient city walls as well as a replica Trojan Horse. Learn how the site has confounded historians and archaeologists, then continue to Selcuk. On arrival, pay a visit to the famously adorable village of Sirince and enjoy a tasting of local fruit wine.
Accommodation
  • Kalehan Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Troy - Archeological site visit
  • Sirince - Fruit wine tasting
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Driving time today: approximately 6 hours

This morning enjoy an orientation walk around Selcuk, a sprawling town lying at the base of the ancient Aysoluk Hill fortress. Visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis, the ancient aqueducts and the 14th-century Isabey Mosque during this fascinating tour. In the afternoon, visit one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world – Ephesus. Tour the amphitheatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and restored Library of Celsus. Make a stop at Sultankoy. This small village is dedicated to carpet weaving, and here you can discover all about this traditional art form, from dying the wool to traditional weaving on wooden looms.
Accommodation
  • Kalehan Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
  • Selcuk - Isa Bey Camii
Optional Activities
  • Selcuk - Basilica of St John - TRY25
  • Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum - TRY25
  • Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry - TRY45
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After breakfast this morning, travel to Pamukkale, also known as 'Cotton Castle' and a truly unique sight. This magical and spectacular natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming myriad pools and terraces. As the water overflows, dazzling cream-coloured stalactites are formed that – from afar – resemble cotton or snow. The pools are filled with waters that many believe have healing properties for circulation and the digestive system. Close to Pamukkale are the ruins of Hierapolis, an important Roman bath centre founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BC. Explore the extensive ruins of Hierapolis, which include a theatre, temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica and necropolis.
Accommodation
  • Melrose View Point Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Driving time today: approximately 4 hours

Make the journey to the coast, with a stop en route at the ghost village of Kayakoy. Abandoned after WWI and the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, this once-thriving village now lies as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and politics. Spend some time on the eerie streets, then continue to Kas (which means eyebrow in Turkish) and begin exploring on a walking tour. Now primarily a holiday town, Kas is strewn with the remains of Lycian tombs, iconic white-washed walls covered with climbing bougainvillea and an ancient theatre where you can watch a spectacular sunset.
Accommodation
  • Linda Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kayakoy - Village visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving time today: approximately 6 hours

Embark on a boat cruise around the local islands with two local guides, Mehmet and Sebahat. Hailing from the small village of Ucagiz, bought a boat and went fishing after they married and never stopped. While the fishing industry has shifted due to modern catchment methods, Mehmet and Sebahat decided to use their knowledge and love of the local waters to share a distinctly traditional way of cruising and eating with travellers. Cruise to their home village of Ucagiz and also to the village of Simena, sailing from large bays to protected inlets where you can cool off with a swim in turquoise waters. Enjoy lunch cooked on board in Tersane Bay, where the water is so clear you can see the bottom and the shore is lined with the ruins of an ancient city. Look out for ruins submerged under the clear water. After a day on the water, return to Kas for an evening at your leisure.
Accommodation
  • Linda Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Take a scenic drive to the jewel in the Mediterranean crown – Antalya. Your accommodation is located in the Kaleici (Old City), so settle in on arrival and then head out on an afternoon walk to see Hadrians Gate, the Old Roman Harbour and more stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Spend the night in the ancient Kaleci. While dinner this evening is not included, it would be a crime not to try some of the fresh, local seafood served in one of the many restaurants.
Accommodation
  • Dogan Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Antalya - Kaleici visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Total driving time today: approximately 3.5 hours

This morning take a guided visit though the Antalya Museum. The province of Antalya includes dozens of important ancient Hellenistic and Roman cities, and some of the best artefacts are on display in the museum’s 13 exhibition halls and open-air gallery. Your afternoon is free to spend as you wish. Maybe relax in the Kaleici, beat the heat with a swim or take an optional visit to the ancient cities of Side, Perge or Apsendos. Be sure to speak to your leader for details on these optional activities.
Accommodation
  • Dogan Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Antalya - Antalya Museum
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Due to limited accommodation in the kaleici (Old Town) of Antalya it can sometimes be difficult to secure our preferred hotel. For this reason we have selected two alternative hotels of equal standard – Pudding Marina Hotel and Aspen Hotel.

If you would like to confirm which hotel your group is staying at please contact your booking agent 30 days prior to departure.

Make a 2-hour morning drive in Burdur province to the city of Sagalassos. The ruins of the city are dramatically sited in the Taurus Mountains, offering magnificent views as well as impressive ancient monuments. Continue on to Konya, an ancient city important in the Roman era where the Sufi practice of 'whirling' was born.
Accommodation
  • Şemsi Tebrizi or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sagalassos - Archaeological site visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning discover the mystic resting place of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, the 13th-century mystic, poet and theologian whose teachings continue to inspire and influence Muslims around the world. Visit the small museum dedicated to his life and work before continuing Cappadocia. Arrive by late afternoon, with time to see the main village and perhaps take a short valley walk with your leader. Your evening is free. One optional activity that may be of interest after what you learned this morning is a performance of whirling by local Dervishes in a restored han (caravansary).
Accommodation
  • Heybe Hotel (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Konya - Mevlana Museum
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Early birds have the option of taking a hot air balloon over the otherworldly Cappadocian landscape. The scene at sunrise is sure to take your breath away. After a relaxing breakfast on a terrace overlooking the valley, visit the Goreme Open Air Museum. See the many incredible houses, churches and monasteries carved out of the soft cliff face. The Christian sanctuaries contain many examples of Byzantine art, cave chapels and colourful biblical frescoes from the 10th–12th centuries. Later in the afternoon, go on a short walk through 'Love Valley' which is famous for its phallic rock formations. Then head back to your hotel in Goreme. Perhaps take an optional Turkish bath to unwind at the end of the day.
Accommodation
  • Heybe Hotel (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cappadocia - Valley walk
  • Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
Optional Activities
  • Goreme - Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia Regular Flight - EUR195
  • Goreme - Hot Air Balloon, Cappadocia Deluxe Flight - EUR250
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Please note that hot air ballooning can only be booked locally. Please speak to your trip leader at the beginning of the tour to organise this.

Head on a morning walk to what is arguably the most beautiful valley in Cappadocia, Kizilcukur. You'll see fascinating rock formations such as cones, peaks and fairy chimneys, as well as man-made cave chapels. After lunch, head toward the red river of Avanos and descend to Ozkonak, an underground city hollowed out of tufa rock that dates back to 400 BC. Explore this unique city, including the crude communication system that allowed signals to be sent between all ten levels. Return to the surface and visit a local potter. Discover the rich clay from the red river and watch how it is moulded into exquisite pieces, then return to your hotel via Devrent Valley.
Accommodation
  • Heybe Hotel (Feature Stay) (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
  • Cappadocia - Ozkonak Underground City
Optional Activities
  • Goreme - Whirling dervish performance - EUR25
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

This morning say goodbye to Cappadocia and return to Istanbul. On arrival in Istanbul, transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is yours to explore some of the charms of Istanbul. This evening consider joining your group and leader for an optional dinner.
Accommodation
  • Legacy Ottoman Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Transfer to the airport in Cappadocia will take approximately 1.5 hours. The flight to Istanbul will be booked out of Nevsehir or Kayseria. Flight time is approximately 1.5 hours.

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

25 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private aircon bus, Plane

Accommodation

Comfortable Standard Hotel (21 nights) Feature Stay Dad Hotel Yadz (2 nights) Feature Stay Heybe Hotel Cappadocia (3 nights)

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 - City Tour
  • Istanbul - Blue Mosque
  • Gallipoli - Anzac Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair
  • Troy - Archeological site visit
  • Sirince - Fruit wine tasting
  • Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
  • Selcuk - Isa Bey Camii
  • Pamukkale - Hierapolis and Travertines National Park
  • Kayakoy - Village visit
  • Kas - Sailing trip with seafood lunch
  • Antalya - Kaleici visit
  • Antalya - Antalya Museum
  • Sagalassos - Archaeological site visit
  • Konya - Mevlana Museum
  • Cappadocia - Valley walk
  • Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum
  • Cappadocia - Pottery demonstration
  • Cappadocia - Ozkonak Underground City

Dates & availability - 2021 season

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Explore Iran & Turkey trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 
3. This trip includes domestic and international flights as indicated on the trip map. The luggage allowance for domestic flights is 15kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. The international flight between Iran and Turkey has a luggage allowance of 20kg for check in luggage and 8kg for carry on. While in Turkey, you can store excess luggage at the Istanbul hotel.
4. US, British and Canadian passport holders will need to book this trip at least three months before departure as this is the length of time it takes to process a visa for these nationalities. There may also be further travel restrictions that apply to these nationalities including restrictions for when you can arrive and depart. Please see the ‘Passport and Visa’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details. Ensure you discuss options with a booking agent before confirming and booking any non-refundable airfares. We also encourage you to refer to our online visa application for more details. Simply select the relevant nationality in the drop-down menu to access detailed visa information at www.peregrineadventures.com/iran-authorisation-code-application
5. We recommend that before your departure you check your government's latest travel advice for information on travelling in Iran and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas of your itinerary. We have links to prominent government travel advisories and regular updates on issues affecting this trip on our ‘Travel Alerts’ page at www.peregrineadventures.com/travel-alerts
6. Travellers cannot use debit or credit cards while in Iran. You will need to bring all the money you will need for your entire trip with you. Please read through the ‘Money Matters’ section of the Essential Trip Information for further details.
7. Please note deposits on this trip are non-refundable and non-transferable as per our Terms and Conditions. You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit per person for your booking to be confirmed.

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

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