The Best Historical Tours in Turkey

Journey Through Time: Unforgettable Historical Tours

Turkey

Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure through time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and culture of Turkey. In order to find the absolute best historical tours to Turkey, we've carefully analyzed each tour based on key criteria such as price, comfort, guest ratings, service, and activities to ensure an unforgettable journey. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of art and architecture, or a curious traveler seeking new experiences, these top-rated organized tours provide the perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion. So, let's find that perfect tour for your next trip below.


The Top 3 Tours:

  • 8 Days, $813.00

  • 10 Days, $1400.00

  • 4 Days, $534.00
Turkey
The Best Historical Tours through Turkey

All tour prices are listed in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.

8 Days Start/End in Istanbul 4 Destinations
  • On Sale: 45% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Guide of Ephesus

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4.4 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia.

Here's your chance to take off on a terrific trip that has garnered a 4.4 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 99 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests of all ages. Expertly organized by Guide of Ephesus, this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $56 per day. It's also on sale right now!


$813 $447
on TourRadar

10 Days Start/End in Istanbul 6 Destinations
  • On Sale: 45% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Guide of Ephesus

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4.9 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Antalya, and Cappadocia.

This memorable voyage is offered by Guide of Ephesus which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $77 per day. Discover a journey that spans 6 destinations, with notable stops in Pamukkale, Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Antalya, and Kusadasi. Your adventure starts and ends in Istanbul. The maximum group size is 45 people, welcoming guests of all ages. Take advantage of the current sale and secure your spot today!


$1,400 $770
on TourRadar

4 Days Start/End in Istanbul 2 Destinations
  • On Sale: 35% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Guide of Ephesus

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5.0 rating

This tour visits Istanbul and Cappadocia.

This amazing journey has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 4 days, this trip has a maximum of 45 people, with guests of all ages. Istanbul will be the beginning and end of your trip. Brought to you by Guide of Ephesus, this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $87 per day. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.


$534 $347
on TourRadar

9 Days Start/End in Istanbul 5 Destinations
  • On Sale: 45% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Guide of Ephesus

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4.0 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Ephesus Archaeological Museum, and Cappadocia.

With this option you can experience an unparalleled voyage for 9 unforgettable days. With 5 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum, and more. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Istanbul. Guide of Ephesus, the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests guests of all ages. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $86 per day. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.


$1,400 $770
on TourRadar

6 Days Antalya to Istanbul 4 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Intrepid Travel

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4.0 rating

This tour visits Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia, and Istanbul.

This fantastic trip has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Along the way, this journey encompasses 4 destinations, including Konya and Cappadocia. Your journey will begin in Antalya and end in Istanbul. Lasting 6 days, the maximum group size is 16 people, and it's good for guests age 18 to 35. Organized by Intrepid Travel, this is a great deal because it's only $85 per day.


$509
on TourRadar

10 Days Start/End in Istanbul 11 Destinations
  • On Sale: 50% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Fez Travel

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4.4 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Pergamum, Selcuk, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, Goreme, and Ankara.

With a terrific 4.4 out of 5 rating, this amazing voyage is the perfect choice. This itinerary covers 11 captivating destinations, with stops in Selcuk, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Konya, among others. Istanbul kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Spanning across 10 days, the voyage accommodates 20 individuals, and is suitable for guests age 12 and older. Offered by Fez Travel, this remarkable voyage is priced at just $95 per day. Take advantage of the current sale and secure your spot today! Don't miss out on this incredible experience.


$1,909 $955
on TourRadar

10 Days Istanbul to Antalya 9 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Intrepid Travel

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4.4 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Çanakkale, Ayvalik, Selcuk, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Kayakoy, Kekova, and Antalya.

This exceptional trip offering by Intrepid Travel has received a 4.4 out of 5 rating. On this 10-day voyage you can unwind while also making new memories. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 9 destinations, featuring Ayvalik, Selcuk, Pamukkale, and Fethiye. Your journey starts off in Istanbul and finishes in Antalya. With a group size of 16 people, it's suitable for guests age 18 to 35. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $112 per day.


$1,121
on TourRadar

3 Days Start/End in Istanbul 6 Destinations
  • On Sale: 45% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.

Organized by Guide of Ephesus

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4.0 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Izmir, Selcuk, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, and Pergamum.

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating. Uncover the beauty of 6 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Pamukkale, Izmir, Selcuk, and Kusadasi. Istanbul will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 3 unforgettable days, this voyage offers a fun group experience with 45 participants, and it's great for guests of all ages. Brought to you by the renowned Guide of Ephesus, this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $110 per day - an unbeatable value. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.


$600 $330
on TourRadar

12 Days Start/End in Istanbul 10 Destinations
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by Travel Talk

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4.9 rating

This tour visits Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, Kusadasi, Ephesus Archaeological Museum, Fethiye, Yassica Adalari, Gocek, Pamukkale, and Cappadocia.

This 12-day trip is ideal for guests age 18 to 59. And priced at only $145 per day, it's a great value, too. Traverse through 10 enchanting destinations, with Gallipoli, Troy, Kusadasi, and Ephesus Archaeological Museum among the must-see stops along the route. Your adventure starts and ends in Istanbul. It's offered by Travel Talk, a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.


$1,745
on TourRadar

10 Days Start/End in Istanbul 9 Destinations
  • On Sale: 40% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours in Turkey.
  • Efficient: you'll cover a variety of destinations swiftly.

Organized by On The Go Tours

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4.6 rating

Priced at just $137 per day, this terrific 10-day voyage is ideal for guests age 18 to 80. Istanbul will be the beginning and end of your trip. Organized by the reputable On The Go Tours, this is one of the best tours on this list. Take advantage of the current sale and secure your spot today!


$2,275 $1,365
on TourRadar

Why does Turkey appeal to history enthusiasts?

Turkey captivates history enthusiasts with its wealth of historical sites, spanning from ancient times through more recent history. Istanbul, Ephesus, and Antalya offer plenty of amazing museums and sights to explore. Istanbul is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. These regional destinations provide a perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure in an affordable package. Plus, the fun and easy itineraries make for a stress-free adventure while creating lasting memories.

Turkey


How much do historical tours in Turkey cost?

The average daily price of Historical Tours in Turkey is $220 per day. Prices can vary widely due to the included amenities, length of the trip, number of guests on the tour, and many other factors.


We partner with TourRadar because they offer the world's largest selection of multi-day organized tours, offering seamless travel experiences while supporting local businesses. It's the perfect way to explore new destinations with ease and confidence.




$220
Average Price Per Day
102
Tours Analyzed
4.7
Average Rating
31
Tour Companies
27
Average Group Size

Which Tour Companies Offer Historical Tours?

A number of fantastic tour companies offer historical tours in Turkey. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.

Turkey Escapades

Turkey Escapades is a smaller tour company that focuses on Turkey. The small group sizes, often less than 9, make for a very personal experience. Certain tours offer the flexibility to be adapted to your unique needs. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many tours focusing on families with children. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category.

See All Tours from Turkey Escapades

Fez Travel

Fez Travel offers local cultural tours through Turkey, Greece, and Egypt. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 4 days to 2 weeks. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many tours focusing on families with children. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category.

See All Tours from Fez Travel

Guide of Ephesus

Focusing on Turkey, Guide of Ephesus is a smaller tour company providing a more personal service to customers. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. This company's tour offerings are generally priced lower than others, which makes them attractive for budget travelers.

See All Tours from Guide of Ephesus

On The Go Tours

On The Go Tours logo On The Go Tours is a large multi-national travel company which offers tours to destinations around the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Egypt, Great Britain, India, and Morocco. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category. Travelers usually enjoy the tour activities such as camping, wine tasting, whale watching, island hopping, snorkelling, camel riding, kayaking, dolphin watching, quad biking, horse riding, cooking classes, diving, and white water rafting.

See All Tours from On The Go Tours


Historical Destinations in Turkey

Wondering where historical tours visit in Turkey? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.

Istanbul

Istanbul sits at the crossroads of east and west. It's a major cosmopolitan city that has long been at the center of trade, culture, religion, and activity. The city is filled with beauty and historical sights that make it a world class travel destination. It attracts everyone from backpackers to high end luxury vacationers who appreciate the diversity and culture that flows through the city.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale, located in southwestern Turkey, is home to the famous travertine terraces, which is a stunning natural wonder that is recognized for its cascading white pools that are filled with turquoise thermal waters. It has been a popular attraction for centuries due to its unique landscape and the therapeutic properties of its mineral-rich waters. Visitors can walk barefoot along the travertine pools but swimming has been limited to preserve the environment. Pamukkale is also home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, where guests can explore ruins such as a well-preserved theater, ancient baths, and the Necropolis.

Kusadasi

Ephesus, located in western Turkey, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world and a world-class destination for history enthusiasts. Once a thriving Greco-Roman city, it is home to many iconic landmarks. Many visitors stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has hotels and restaurants. This is also a popular destination with cruise ship passengers and tour groups, who usually visit for the day before moving on.

Antalya

Antalya is a resort city in Turkey that attracts European and international tourists. The beaches are lined with hotels and the water is a beautiful blue color. Also nearby are many historical and archeological sights.

More

Other popular destinations for historical tours through Turkey include Konya, Gallipoli, Pergamum, Ankara, and Çanakkale.


Historical Tours vs. Independent Travel: Pros and Cons

Deciding between an organized tour and independent travel? Keep these important aspects of each option in mind.

Pros
  • Learn detailed stories and context from expert guides.
  • Visit significant landmarks efficiently.
  • Access exclusive areas not open to the public.
  • Guides bring history to life with engaging narratives.
  • Save time on researching destinations.
  • Enjoy a curated itinerary of top historical sites.
  • Guides answer questions for deeper understanding.
  • Group tours can provide a social learning experience.
  • Avoid logistical challenges like tickets or reservations.
  • Guides help connect the dots between events and eras.
Cons
  • Less flexibility in the itinerary.
  • Group size might impact the experience.


Pros
  • Full control over your itinerary and pace.
  • Focus on sites that interest you most.
  • Flexibility to spend more time at certain locations.
  • Explore at unconventional hours to avoid crowds.
  • Customize your trip around niche historical themes.
Cons
  • Requires time-consuming research to plan.
  • Risk of missing key details without a guide.
  • May overlook important or lesser-known sites.
  • Difficult to understand the full historical context.
  • Navigation and logistics can be more complex.
  • No expert to answer questions during your visit.
  • Potential for long waits without pre-booking tickets.
  • Self-guided tours may lack the interactive element.


Which is cheaper?

Is independent travel cheaper than guided historical tours? The answer is not simple. Tours provide many of the services that you would otherwise pay for yourself on an independent trip. Hotels, transportation, food, entry tickets, guides, and activities are provided on organized tours, whereas you would pay for everything separately on your own. To deterine the difference in price, you would need to compare the combined price of everything in a tour with everything you would book separately. Sometimes you might want to stay in a cheaper hotel, or eat at a more expensive restaurant, so the price of a tour could be more or less than what you would otherwise pay on your own. Make sure you know what is included before making your comparison.

Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.

Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.

While we do our best to evaluate all tours to maintain accuracy, always confirm the details directly with the tour company before booking. The information provided on this website is sourced directly from TourRadar and is subject to change at any time.

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.