Your Anatolia Expedition tour includes plenty of free time to explore Turkey your way. Our Choice Experiences are specially curated activities designed to help you personalize your adventure — adding moments that match your interests, pace, and passion.

From a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia to a traditional cooking class in Istanbul, or a sunset yacht cruise on the Aegean, these experiences help you dive deeper into Turkish culture and create memories that last a lifetime.

You don’t need to prebook — your Tour Director will share available options at the start of your trip, and you can choose and pay on the spot by credit card or cash.

To give you total flexibility, Choice Experiences cannot be prebooked. Instead, your Tour Director will present a curated selection of optional tours and cultural activities designed to complement your itinerary.

These experiences are tailored to the season, local festivals, and travel conditions, ensuring you always get the best possible options during your journey. Your Tour Director will explain each activity, provide pricing, and help you decide which experiences best match your travel style.

For a preview of what may be offered, check the day-by-day itinerary of your tour on our website — or ask our team for recommendations before your trip.

You may bring one small piece of carry-on luggage for the coach — something that fits in the overhead compartment or under your seat. Your larger suitcase will be stored separately.

We recommend packing:

• A travel pillow or light blanket

• Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen

• A refillable water bottle

• Headphones or a book for relaxation

Please note that rolling suitcases are not permitted inside the coach for safety reasons.

On an Anatolia Expedition tour, you’ll experience the very best of Turkey — from Istanbul’s historic treasures to Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes. Every detail is designed to make your journey seamless and unforgettable.

Your tour includes:

• A professional, English-speaking Tour Director with deep local knowledge

• Handpicked hotels offering comfort and authentic Turkish hospitality

• Daily breakfasts and many included meals featuring delicious regional cuisine

• Must-see sightseeing experiences as outlined in your itinerary

• Airport transfers in select destinations for your convenience

At Anatolia Expedition, we believe every traveler should have the freedom to explore. That’s why our itineraries include plenty of free time and over 50 optional experiences — from hot air ballooning over Cappadocia to Bosphorus cruises in Istanbul.

Travel in comfort aboard our modern, air-conditioned coaches, designed to make every journey across Turkey relaxing and scenic.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Reclining seats, panoramic windows, and climate control for all-weather comfort

• Onboard Wi-Fi (available in most areas, though coverage may vary in remote regions)

• Bottled water available for purchase and frequent rest stops along the route

Our coaches are maintained to the highest safety and comfort standards, ensuring smooth travel across Turkey’s highways, mountains, and coastal routes.

Your day-by-day itinerary details all included meals — from Turkish breakfasts to special local dining experiences. You’ll also have free time to explore local restaurants and savor authentic flavors at your own pace.

Food is a highlight of any trip to Turkey!
Your itinerary will specify included meals, and your Tour Director will recommend excellent local dining options.

We accommodate vegetarian, diabetic, and gluten-free diets whenever possible. Please inform us of your requirements at the time of booking. While we can’t guarantee Kosher or Halal options everywhere, our team and restaurant partners will always do their best to assist.

Turkey has safe drinking water in most areas, though bottled water is widely available. We also recommend bringing a refillable water bottle to help reduce plastic waste.

Group sizes vary depending on the itinerary, but most Anatolia Expedition tours host between 10 and 14 guests. Smaller groups allow for a more personal experience and easier access to local sites and experiences.

We carefully select each hotel for its quality, comfort, and location. Whether you’re overlooking the Bosphorus or staying in a cave hotel in Cappadocia, you can expect authentic Turkish charm combined with modern amenities.

Most of our hotels offer:

• Air conditioning and Wi-Fi access

• Private bathrooms and quality linens

• Breakfast buffets featuring local ingredients

Some hotels in historic or remote areas may vary slightly in style or facilities, but all meet our high standards for comfort and service.

Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation in Turkey.
While tips for included services (like hotel staff or local guides) are often covered, it’s common to tip:

• Tour Director and Driver: USD $5–10 per person per day

• Restaurant staff: Around 10% if not already included in the bill

• Hotel staff: Small tips for luggage handling or room service

If you’d like, you can prepay gratuities for your Tour Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Our tours include a comfortable mix of walking and coach travel. Most sightseeing is at a relaxed pace, but Turkey’s ancient cities and natural sites may include uneven terrain or stairs.

We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes and being prepared for some light to moderate activity, especially at archaeological sites like Ephesus or Pamukkale.

Absolutely. Every Anatolia Expedition tour is designed to balance guided exploration and personal discovery. While we take care of all the essentials — transportation, accommodations, and key sights — you’ll have plenty of free time to wander bazaars, visit hidden cafes, or simply relax at your hotel.

Your Tour Director will offer great suggestions for what to see and do during your leisure time.

Every tour is led by a dedicated Anatolia Expedition Tour Director — your travel expert, storyteller, and guide throughout the journey. They’ll share local insights, handle logistics, and make sure your trip runs smoothly from start to finish.

Your Tour Director will meet you and the group to introduce themselves and go over important travel details for the adventure ahead.

At Anatolia Expedition, we believe that exploring the beauty of Turkey goes hand in hand with protecting it. Our commitment to sustainable tourism in Turkey ensures that every journey leaves a positive impact on the people, places, and cultures you encounter.

We partner with local communities and family-owned businesses to support regional economies and preserve traditional craftsmanship. By traveling with us, you help reduce environmental impact, encourage responsible travel practices, and promote the protection of Turkey’s cultural and natural heritage.

We’re also proud to take part in initiatives that focus on eco-friendly transportation, waste reduction, and community-based tourism projects. Together, we’re making travel matter — ensuring that the magic of Turkey’s landscapes, history, and hospitality can be enjoyed by generations to come.