TÜRKIYE, UNPACKAGED

Straddling the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Türkiye is a land where ancient empires have left their indelible mark, creating a breathtaking mosaic of historical wonders.

A journey through this country offers a sensory feast: the tantalizing aromas of spice markets, the intricate artistry of handcrafted textiles, the aromas of a little-known wine culture, and the stunning landscapes that range from sun-kissed Mediterranean coasts to the otherworldly formations of Cappadocia. There’s a lot to capture at this meeting point of continents, and while you could stand in line to witness those iconic landmarks on your own, having an expert around can reveal a deeper narrative beneath what you see. Our experiences introduce you to the photographer chasing the paths of Anatolia’s wild horses, the wine expert sharing the peculiarities of Turkish wine, and the historian threading together the empires that have shaped modern-day Istanbul.

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RARE EXPERIENCES IN TÜRKIYE

Fernwayer’s signature Türkiye experiences showcase the country’s highlights through a distinctive lens, focusing on storytelling, rare access, and a deep connection with the locals. Follow a textile expert through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, meeting the families behind the workshops and their distinct fabric patterns, join a food connoisseur at a meyhane (Turkish tavern), learning the etiquette of tasting rakı, or meet the master artist preserving the UNESCO-listed Karagöz art of shadow puppetry. In Cappadocia, keep your camera handy to capture the migration of the buffalo between the valleys, the fairy chimneys, or witness the wild Yilki horses gallop along the water as the sun sets, accompanied by a seasoned photographer. And if you’re in Izmir, why not sample Turkish wine, facing the vineyards that source it? Each experience covers a different side of Türkiye, from its ancient textile heritage to its landscapes and culinary treats. Click on any of the immersive tours below to experience it now or save it to your dream board for a future trip.

Check out all Türkiye experiences.

OUR TURKISH DESTINATIONS

A landscape formed by centuries of exchange, Türkiye has seemingly absorbed influences from all corners. There’s Istanbul, the former heart of the Ottoman Empire, where Byzantine churches sit alongside mosques and former palaces. Then Cappadocia, where nature thrives alongside hot air balloons and ceramic workshops, and Izmir, where vineyards meet Roman ruins. These are the places we chose to introduce you to Türkiye and its incredibly diverse culture.

Fernwayer's Turkish Destinations

Istanbul

For centuries, Istanbul stood at the crossroads of East and West — where emperors ruled, traders bartered, and entire civilizations left their mark. See the monuments they left behind alongside an archaeologist, capture the fishermen casting lines from the Galata Bridge, or cross the Bosphorus to take in the sights from the other end.

See all Istanbul tours.

Cappadocia

Famous for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and underground cities, this otherworldly region is a magnet for photographers. Witness artisans mold ceramic pieces by hand, catch the balloons rising to the skies at dawn, or follow the wild Yilki horses as they rush through the valleys, using Göreme as your base.

See all Cappadocia tours.

Bodrum

Beyond the beaches and the whitewashed streets, Bodrum hides a bountiful landscape of sanctuaries and olive groves. Experience Didyma after dark, witnessing the Ionic columns lit up as the sun sets. Sail along Lake Bafa with a fisherman, walk among olive trees, or take a day trip to Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

See all Bodrum tours.

İzmir & Kuşadası

Stick around the Aegean Sea to experience İzmir and Kuşadası. Leave the cruise terminal behind and meet the people sustaining the coast, from winemakers to boatmen and historians, as you wander through vineyards and lake shores.

See all İzmir & Kuşadası tours.

Istanbul | Cappadocia | Bodrum | İzmir & Kuşadası

Istanbul Through The Senses

Get to know Istanbul in five days with our “Istanbul Through The Senses” tour. Start with breakfast at the Grand Bazaar guided by a local food expert, then wander through the district of Sultanahmet, home to iconic sights like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The next day, visit ancient ruins and join a Turkish wine tasting. Your sensorial journey continues at a traditional tavern with a mezze and raki dinner, then through the corridors of the Spice Bazaar before hopping on a minibus to explore the Asian side. Finally, you'll meet a master puppet artist and a photographer who will guide you along the Galata Bridge at dawn.

Dreamscapes of Cappadocia

Take time to explore Cappadocia with our three-day itinerary “Dreamscapes of Cappadocia”, exploring natural wonders, artisan workshops, and wildlife. Setting off from Göreme, you'll wander through rocky formations, cave dwellings, and visit the pottery workshops in the Avanos village. For Day 2, rise early to catch the sunrise and the hot air balloons (if you're lucky) take over the skies while a photographer captures your portrait. At sunrise, watch the Yilki horses gallop around you or enjoy a hike along the Red Valley. Dedicate the last day to exploring the region's underground cities and the Ortahisar castle.

WHEN TO GO

Türkiye moves to the rhythm of its own seasons, with the occasional festival taking over the city or the country’s rural landscapes. These annual events can range from springtime rituals that celebrate change to long summer nights along the Aegean and the grape harvests that reach Cappadocia as autumn settles in.

JAN

Ephesus hosts the annual Selçuk Camel Wrestling Championship.

JAN

Ephesus hosts the annual Selçuk Camel Wrestling Championship.

MAR

Türkiye celebrates the arrival of spring with the Nevruz festival.

MAR

Türkiye celebrates the arrival of spring with the Nevruz festival.

AUG

Ballet lovers head to Bodrum for the Bodrum International Ballet Festival.

AUG

Ballet lovers head to Bodrum for the Bodrum International Ballet Festival.

SEP

It’s time for the grape harvest. See our Turkish Wine Experiences.

SEP

It’s time for the grape harvest. See our Turkish Wine Experiences.

NOV

In Mersin the citrus harvest is celebrated with parades and craft exhibits.

NOV

In Mersin the citrus harvest is celebrated with parades and craft exhibits.

DEC

Rakı fans gather for the World Rakı Festival, a street festival in Adana.

DEC

Rakı fans gather for the World Rakı Festival, a street festival in Adana.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit Türkiye?

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the best times to visit Türkiye, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summer is a great time to hit the coast and beaches, though it can be quite busy then. Winter is much less crowded and offers its own appeal, like the snowy landscapes around Cappadocia, but the low temperatures can be a challenge to explore.

How should I get around Türkiye?

Istanbul has a pretty efficient public transport system with metro, trams, and ferries. Traffic can be chaotic at rush hour, but it is possible to get an Uber or taxi to traverse between districts. If you’re travelling between regions, domestic flights are usually pretty affordable.

Can you organize the entire trip for me?

We can certainly help you plan your Türkiye trip, but we do not sell tour packages that include flights and hotel bookings. Fernwayer specializes in single-day experiences, which can be combined to create a unique trip through the country. With our "Human Edit" service, you can book a consulting session with one of our travel experts, who will help put together the perfect trip based on your interests and desires.

Is Türkiye a safe country to travel to?

Yes, Türkiye is generally safe for travellers, especially if you stick around popular areas like Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, or Cappadocia. Tourist areas are typically well-policed, though it’s still wise to remain vigilant of your belongings. Some regions, like the southeast near the border with Syria and Iraq, are best avoided.

What should I pack for a trip to Türkiye?

Bring lightweight layers, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection if you’re coming in spring or summer. A modest outfit, such as long trousers or skirts and shoulders covered, is recommended to access certain religious sites. If traveling in winter or to the highlands, be sure to bring a warmer coat, gloves, a hat, and maybe hand/feet warmer packages, depending on your sensitivity to the cold.

Do I need a visa to travel to Türkiye?

It depends on your nationality. Most tourists from European countries and other nations, such as the US, are exempt from needing a visa for stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Note that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date. Others may need to apply for an e-visa (online) before arrival. Always check the requirements with your embassy or consulate before traveling.