Sumela Monastery on a cliff face in Turkey's Black Sea region

Turkey Tours

Turkey is a popular tourist destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty — plan a focused tour that ends 1–2 days before your scheduled procedure.

Turkey is a popular tourist destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. However, it may be difficult to combine a touristic tour with a surgical operation programme. Therefore if you are willing to do some sightseeing in Turkey while you are here for medical treatment, it is better to have enough time for both and plan the tour prior to your surgery. A short and focused tour that ends 1–2 days prior to your scheduled medical procedure may be the best.

Ephesus Tour

Ephesus is an ancient city located in western Turkey, near the town of Selcuk. An Ephesus tour is a great way to explore one of the most impressive ancient cities in the world, and to learn about the rich history and culture of Turkey. An Ephesus tour typically includes a visit to the ancient city of Ephesus, which is home to some of the most impressive ruins from the Roman era, such as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Great Theatre, and the Marble Street. The tour also usually includes a visit to the nearby House of the Virgin Mary, where it is believed that the Virgin Mary spent her last days. The best time to visit Ephesus is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Mevlana Şeb-i Aruz Tour

Şeb-i Aruz is an annual event held in Konya, Turkey to commemorate the death of the famous Sufi poet and philosopher, Mevlana Celalettin Rumi. The event takes place on December 17, which is the anniversary of Rumi's death, and it is a time when people from all over the world come together to celebrate his life and teachings. Sufism is a mystical and spiritual branch of Islam that emphasizes the inward search for God and the cultivation of a personal relationship with the divine.

A Şeb-i Aruz tour typically includes a visit to the mausoleum of Mevlana — considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sufis — and the museum containing artefacts related to Rumi's life and teachings, as well as a chance to witness the whirling dervish ceremony. If you plan to attend the Şeb-i Aruz festival, it is recommended to book your tour and accommodations well in advance, as it attracts large crowds from all over the world.

Cappadocia Balloon Tour

Cappadocia is a region located in central Turkey famous for its unique geological formations, cave dwellings, and ancient underground cities. One of the best ways to experience the stunning landscape of Cappadocia is by taking a hot air balloon ride, which offers breathtaking views of the region from above.

A Cappadocia balloon tour typically begins early in the morning, before sunrise, when the conditions are optimal for flying. The balloon ride lasts for about an hour; passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the region, including the famous 'fairy chimneys' rock formations, ancient churches and monasteries, and traditional villages. Cappadocia holds a special place in the history of early Christianity, and its rich spiritual heritage continues to inspire believers around the world. The best time for this tour is late spring and summer.

Black Sea Highlands Tour

This popular tour takes visitors through the stunning highlands region of Turkey's Black Sea coast, known for its natural beauty — soaring mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes and rivers. From Trabzon, the tour heads inland towards the highlands, passing through picturesque villages and towns.

Tour highlights include: The Sumela Monastery — an ancient monastery located on a steep cliff face, dating back to the 4th century AD and one of the most iconic landmarks of the Black Sea region; The Firtina Valley — known for its rushing river and dramatic rock formations (hiking and rafting available); The Uzungol Lake — surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains; and The Ayder Plateau — located at over 1,300 metres altitude, home to hot springs, waterfalls, and traditional Turkish villages. The best time for this tour is the summer months.

Lykia Road Tour

This long-distance hiking trail follows the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and offers stunning views of the coastline and the Taurus Mountains. The 500 km trail crosses the countryside of Muğla and Antalya — the home of the Lykian Civilization in the 5th century. It passes through antique cities, mythological sites, and traditional Turkish villages, offering a unique glimpse into the nature, culture and way of life of the region. Visitors usually choose one of the three parts of the route. The best time to visit is either spring or autumn, as temperatures are too high in summer.

Göbeklitepe Tour

The Göbeklitepe site is considered to be one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, and has significantly changed our understanding of early human civilization. It offers visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore the origins of human spirituality and culture. Göbeklitepe is located in southeastern Turkey, near the city of Şanlıurfa. The site is believed to date back to the Neolithic period, around 11,000 years ago, and is considered to be one of the oldest temples in the world. The site itself consists of a number of circular structures, some of which are believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and rituals.

The structures are decorated with intricate carvings of animals and symbols, and many of the stones weigh several tons, which has led archaeologists to speculate that they were transported to the site from long distances. Visitors to the Göbeklitepe site can explore the various structures and learn about the history and significance of the site through guided tours and exhibits. In addition, the nearby Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum provides a more in-depth look at the history and culture of the region.

Blue Voyage Yacht Tour

Blue Voyage, also known as 'Mavi Yolculuk' in Turkish, is a popular tour option in Turkey that involves sailing along the country's stunning southwestern coast (the Turquoise Coast) on traditional Turkish wooden boats called gulets. Tours typically range from 3–7 days and can be customised to suit individual preferences.

Tours often start in Bodrum or Marmaris and take visitors along the coast to explore the many bays, coves, and beaches. Along the way, visitors can admire rugged cliffs, pine forests, and crystal-clear waters, while having opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and hiking.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to combine a Turkey tour with medical treatment?
It is better to plan a short and focused tour that ends 1–2 days prior to your scheduled medical procedure, so you have enough time for both sightseeing and recovery.
What is the Cappadocia balloon tour like?
The balloon ride lasts about an hour, launching before sunrise from the Cappadocia region. You will enjoy panoramic views of the famous 'fairy chimneys' rock formations, ancient churches, and traditional villages. The best time is late spring and summer.
What does the Black Sea Highlands Tour include?
The tour covers the Sumela Monastery (4th-century cliff monastery), the Firtina Valley (rafting and hiking), Uzungol Lake, and the Ayder Plateau with hot springs and traditional villages. Best visited in summer.
What is a Blue Voyage yacht tour?
Blue Voyage ('Mavi Yolculuk') involves sailing Turkey's Turquoise Coast on traditional gulet boats for 3–7 days from Bodrum or Marmaris, exploring bays, coves, and beaches with opportunities for snorkelling and swimming.

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