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Turkey Travel Guide

Set sail through the core of Turkey on a river cruise that promises an experience beyond the ordinary voyage. It's a deep dive into a land where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Glide along Turkey's majestic rivers and witness the enchanting dance of nature with civilization. From the sun-kissed beaches that line the turquoise waters to bustling bazaars echoing with the melody of daily life, these cruises present a slice of Turkey that's ripe for exploration. With stops at cities steeped in antiquity, you'll step off the deck to stroll through ruins that whisper tales of bygone empires. Imagine the grandeur of past civilizations as you wander among historical treasures. Each bend in the river ushers in a new chapter of Turkey's rich past, whether it's the Byzantine marvels, Ottoman wonders, or the remnants of ancient Anatolian civilizations. A river cruise in Turkey isn't just a holiday; it's a vibrant, living museum unfurling before your eyes, urging you to reach out and touch history. With river cruise volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 50% versus the brochure price! Book your Turkey river cruise today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted river cruise headquarters.

Turkey Travel Guide
Showing 1 - 5 River Cruises

River Cruises

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Showing 1 - 5 River Cruises

Sail Date Operator Ship Departs Returns Length Price
May 24, 2024EmeraldEmerald DestinyBudapestIstanbul12$10,005
May 27, 2024EmeraldEmerald DestinyIstanbulBudapest12$10,005
Jun 17, 2025EmeraldEmerald SkyBudapestIstanbul12$9,405
Jun 20, 2025EmeraldEmerald SkyIstanbulBudapest12$9,405
Sep 25, 2025EmeraldEmerald LunaBudapestIstanbul12$9,805

Turkey Travel Guide

Turkey River Cruises Highlights

  • Hagia Sophia (Istanbul): Once a church, later a mosque, and now a museum, this iconic structure showcases centuries of history and is a testament to the religious and architectural transformations that have swept through the region.
  • Topkapi Palace (Istanbul): This sprawling palace was the administrative heart of the Ottoman Empire. Its opulent courts and holy relics make it a fascinating glimpse into the lives of sultans.
  • The Blue Mosque (Istanbul): With its six minarets and cascade of domes, the Blue Mosque is a stunning piece of classic Ottoman architecture that's still in use today.
  • Grand Bazaar (Istanbul): A bustling maze of commerce, the Grand Bazaar offers everything from spices to jewelry and is housed in one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets.
  • The Ruins of Troy (near Çanakkale): The fabled city of the Trojan War, excavated to reveal layers of history, invites you to walk through time.
  • Gallipoli Battlefields (Gallipoli Peninsula): This solemn WWI site is a poignant reminder of the soldiers who fought and died here, with memorials and cemeteries dotting the landscape.
  • Ephesus (near Kusadasi): This ancient city is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman archaeological sites in the world, famous for its massive library and grand theater.
  • Pamukkale (Denizli Province): Not directly on the river route but worth the detour, Pamukkale is known for its white travertine terraces and thermal waters, creating a surreal landscape.
  • Cappadocia (Central Anatolia): Though inland, many river cruises offer tours to this otherworldly region known for its fairy chimneys, cave churches, and hot air balloon vistas.

Turkey River Cruises Travel Tips

  • The currency is the Turkish Lira, and while credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller purchases, especially in local bazaars.
  • Include clothing that can layer as evenings by the river can be cool, even if days are warm.
  • Don't forget a swimsuit for beach stops or a dip in thermal springs.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring historical sites.
  • Check your travel documents to make sure everything is in order. Make sure your name and address are correct.
  • Carry your travel documents so you can access them easily.
  • If you are on medication, make sure your prescriptions are filled before your trip.
  • Include a daypack for excursions and a universal power adapter to keep your devices charged.

Turkey River Cruises Things To Do

  • Istanbul, Turkey
    Istanbul, Turkey

    Istanbul is an interesting introduction to Turkey's culture and history. Straddling the continent of Asia and Europe, over the Bosphorus Strait, the city reflects the ancient influences and empires that ruled the area when the city was known as Byzantium and Constantinople.

    Best Time To Visit

    Fall and spring welcome visitors who want to enjoy fewer crowds and cooler weather.

     

    You Should Know

    Most of the city's Byzantine churches still are standing, including the Hagia Sophia, which boasts a dome, built in the sixth century, and beautiful Christian mosaics. Soccer is a popular sport in the city, as is evidenced by the number of stadiums where the sport is played. Some of the sports facilities include Ataturk Olympic Stadium, Turk Telekom Arena, and BJK Inonu. Popular places to swim and enjoy water sports include the Atakoy and Florya beaches.
  • Canakkale
    Canakkale

    Situated in northwest Turkey inside of the Marmara area, Canakkale is not as touristy as Istanbul, although it is considered a gateway to the ancient ruins of Troy and the World War I battlegrounds of Gallipoli. If you enjoy history, you will feel right at home in Canakkale.

    Best Time To Visit

    Both autumn and spring are good times to plan a river cruise to Canakkale, Turkey.

     

    You Should Know

    Kilitbahir Castle is located opposite Canakkale, where a corresponding fortress stands, from which the city takes its name. Both castles were built by Fatih Sultan Mehmet. The Military Marine Museum features naval warships on display.
  • Gallipoli Peninsula
    Gallipoli Peninsula

    A river cruise to Turkey often includes a trip to the Gallipoli Peninsula, which is the site of First World War landings by allied forces. Landmark sites on the peninsula include the Lone Pine Australian Memorial and the Cape Hellas Memorial.

    Best Time To Visit

    Schedule a river cruise in the shoulder seasons for fall or spring to avoid the crowds.

     

    You Should Know

    The peninsula was once a part of the Byzantine Empire and was a stopping off point for Constantinople (Istanbul, Turkey). Gallipoli served as a military camp for French and British military forces during the Crimean War in 1854. An earthquake in 1354 left the then Greek city of Gallipoli deserted. Turks from Anatolia next occupied the city, which made it a strategic Ottoman stronghold.
  • Pergamon
    Pergamon

    A portal to ancient temples and theaters, the city of Pergamon overlooks the Bakircay Plain in Turkey's Aegean region. A visit to this city will give you a multilayered view of ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. The ruins include Christian, Pagan, Byzantine, Jewish, Islamic, and Roman influences.

    Best Time To Visit

    A good time to go to Pergamon is during the spring or fall.

     

    You Should Know

    A German engineer, Carl Humann, discovered Pergamon's ancient remains in the 1870s. The ancient Theater of Pergamon dates to the Hellenistic period. It features 78 rows of seats and stands at a height of 118 feet tall. At that height, it is the steepest of all the theaters of its kind. The Library of Pergamon was the second largest library in Ancient Greece, after the Library of Alexandria.
  • Izmir
    Izmir

    Located in western Turkey, Izmir is Turkey's third-largest city. Its rich history and heritage go back 8,500 years. Throughout its history, Izmir has been a host to a large number of civilizations, including the Ancient Greeks, Persians, Byzantines, Romans, Ottomans, and Assyrians. The city is the second fastest-growing metropolis worldwide.

    Best Time To Visit

    Schedule a trip in the spring or autumn to see Izmir.

     

    You Should Know

    The city once was referred to as Smyrna. The name was phased out in 1930 in favor of the name, Izmir. Many famous philosophers have called Izmir home, including Homer, who composed the Iliad and Odyssey.
  • Pamukkale
    Pamukkale

    One of the truly unique attractions to visit on Turkey river cruises, Pamukkale is considered a spa town because of its thermal mineral-rich waters that stream from hillside travertine terraces. The town lies adjacent to the ancient Roman city of Hieropolis, which was formed around 190 B.C. Two of the main attractions in Hieropolis include a necropolis with sarcophagi, which span just over a mile, and an ancient theater.

    Best Time To Visit

    The aforementioned Travertine Pools are open, during the year, from April 15 to October 2, 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, and from October 3 to April 14, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. You will need to pay a small entrance fee. You can also visit the Antique Pool in Hieropolis, open from November through March, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, and April through October, 8:00 am to 7:30 pm. Again, entry requires a small fee. Don't forget to bring a towel.

     

    You Should Know

    In neighboring Hieropolis, the Antique Pool is known for its Roman columns, which are found below the water. The columns were submerged after an earthquake. Shoes are not allowed to be worn on the terraces of the Travertine Pools.
  • Konya
    Konya

    Konya is certainly one city you will want to include on a river cruise to Turkey. This conservative Turkish city, located south of Ankara, lies in the Central Anatolia region. The city is the pilgrimage site for Surfis, who visit the tomb of Jelaleddin Rumin, the founder of the Mevlana order. The tomb is located in the city's museum.

    Best Time To Visit

    Set time aside to visit Konya during the spring or fall, when river cruise prices are lower.

     

    You Should Know

    The Alaeddin Mosque, built in the 1100s, sits amidst the green landscape and parks of Alaeddin Hill. Watch whirling dervishes whose whirling is a form of dhikr, or remembrance of God. A dervish is a common name for someone who is an initiate of the Surfi Muslim sect who, like a Christian monk, takes a vow of poverty. Whirling or spinning is the dervishes' way of worshipping God.
  • Antalya
    Antalya

    A well-known popular Turkish resort city, Antalya is marked by its Old Harbor, flanked by yachts, and hotel-lined beaches. Known as the gateway to the southern Mediterranean area (the Turquoise Coast), the city also features important historical treasures.

    Best Time To Visit

    Because Antalya can get quite crowded, plan a visit during May or October when you won't feel the press of the crowds and you can enjoy pleasant temperatures.

     

    You Should Know

    Antalya once served as a major Roman port city. Hadrian's Gate was constructed in Antalya to honor the emperor of Rome's visit in 130 A.D. View the harbor from Hidirlik Tower, built in the second century.
  • Ankara
    Ankara

    The capital of Turkey, Ankara is situated in the country's middle Anatolia region. The city places a great deal of emphasis on performance arts, and therefore is the base for the State Opera and Ballet, a number of national theater organizations, and the Presidential Symphony Orchestra.

    Best Time To Visit

    Plan a visit to Ankara from March to May or September to November, preferably during the earlier part of these periods.

     

    You Should Know

    Anitkabir, overlooks Ankara. The structure is a large hilltop mausoleum. Inside the city landmark lies the remains of Kemal Ataturk, present-day Turkey's first president. He declared Ankara the country's capital in 1923. 5-star accommodations average around $59 per night.

Turkey River Cruise Packages

  • Getting There

    Turkey's river cruises typically begin in bustling ports that are easily accessible from major cities. Nestled between Europe and Asia, these ports serve as gateways to the country's extensive river networks. To join your cruise, you can fly into Turkey's international airports, where transportation to the port is often just a quick ride away. Major cruise lines might offer transfers, or you can hop into a taxi or a shuttle bus for a direct route to the docks. Once there, the ships await to navigate the meandering rivers, each bend bringing you closer to Turkey's rich landscapes and historic backdrops. The convenience of getting to the starting point of your river adventure makes the journey stress-free right from the start.

  • Immerse Yourself in the Culture of Turkey

    Turkey's culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from its rich history and diverse influences. It's a place where tradition and modernity meet, from the call to prayer echoing across cities to the contemporary art scenes in bustling districts. Respect for elders and hospitality are cornerstones of Turkish culture, so don't be surprised by the warm welcomes or invitations for tea. Festivals are a splendid time to visit, with events like the Istanbul International Film Festival or the Cappadocia Balloon Festival offering glimpses into the nation's celebratory spirit. Whirling Dervish ceremonies are a unique cultural experience, showcasing the mystical Sufi practice that's part of Turkey's UNESCO Intangible Heritage. Learning a few basic Turkish greetings can go a long way in showing respect and forging connections with locals. As you explore, be mindful of local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and always ask permission before taking photos of people.

  • Experience the Flavors of Turkey on a River Cruise

    Turkey's cuisine is a feast for the senses, blending spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients that reflect the country's rich culinary heritage. On your river cruise, you'll have the chance to taste famous dishes like kebabs cooked over an open flame, mezes (small dishes) that tantalize the palate, and baklava, a sweet pastry layered with nuts and syrup. Sipping on Turkish tea or strong coffee is a ritual, and a glass of raki, the anise-flavored spirit, is a must-try for the adventurous.

    Don't miss the opportunity to dine at local eateries along the riverbanks, where you can enjoy authentic flavors and waterfront views. Many cruises also offer onboard meals prepared by chefs who use local ingredients to give you a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine. For a truly immersive experience, seek out a cooking class in one of the ports, where you can learn how to create Turkish specialties yourself. Whether it's street food in a bustling bazaar or a leisurely meal on the ship as you watch the shoreline drift by, the flavors of Turkey are a highlight of any river cruise.

  • The Perfect Time for a Turkish River Cruise

    When considering a river cruise in Turkey, the timing is essential to ensure the best experience. The climate in Turkey varies across regions, but generally, the period from April to October is ideal for river cruising. During these months, the weather is sunny and warm, providing excellent conditions for enjoying the scenic beauty and cultural attractions along the river.

    The summer months, stretching from June to August, are the hottest in Turkey, making early mornings and late afternoons the most comfortable times for sightseeing during a river cruise. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so popular spots along the river are likely to be more crowded during summer river cruises.

    For a more pleasant river cruising experience, the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are excellent choices. These months offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists, contributing to a more serene and enjoyable river cruising experience. The cooler days in these shoulder months enhance the comfort of a river cruise in Turkey. Additionally, the off-season, particularly autumn, often brings the advantages of lower prices and a more intimate experience with the local culture and sites.

    Therefore, for those seeking a river cruise in Turkey with a balance of favorable weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder months of May or September are optimal. These months strike the perfect balance, providing a delightful river cruising experience while avoiding the extremes of the high tourist season.

  • Why Book a River Cruise in Turkey?

    Booking a river cruise in Turkey offers a unique vantage point to take in the country's splendid coastline and historical sites from the comfort and convenience of your floating hotel. Cruises provide excellent value for money, bundling accommodation, transportation, and sometimes meals into one price, which can be more economical than arranging each separately. As you traverse from port to port, you're treated to coastal views that are often inaccessible by land, giving you a fresh perspective on Turkey's stunning landscapes. The convenience factor is undeniable, with no need to pack and unpack at each new destination, and transportation is hassle-free as you drift to your next adventure. Plus, being on a cruise often means you can dock at private piers and enjoy quieter, less crowded visits to popular sites. For many, the ease of exploring multiple historic and cultural landmarks without the stress of coordinating logistics is the ultimate appeal. A river cruise in Turkey not only simplifies the journey but enriches it, allowing for a deeper connection with the destination in a way that only this mode of travel can offer.

  • Ready to Book Your Turkey River Cruise?

    Turkey beckons with its blend of historical wonders, culinary delights, and cultural richness—all best experienced from the serene vantage point of its rivers. A river cruise in Turkey offers an effortless journey through time, where each port introduces another layer of this nation's storied past and vibrant present. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the ease of travel and depth of exploration that a river cruise provides is unparalleled. With comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and stunning views that change with every twist of the river, booking a Turkey River cruise is your ticket to a vacation that promises both relaxation and adventure. Why wait? Book your Turkey river cruise today and set sail on an unforgettable journey where history flows as smoothly as the waters you'll traverse.

Turkey River Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Are Turkey River Cruises?

    You probably can see more of the country on a Turkey river cruise than other river cruise offerings. Turkey river cruise itineraries include travel to various Turkish ports-of-call, including the major cities of Istanbul and Ankara. Some river cruises run to Budapest Hungary while others travel to and from Athens, as well as other Greek cities. What you choose will depend on the amount of time you set aside for travel and your budget.

  • What’s Included on Turkey River Cruises?

    To customize your Turkey River cruise, contact a travel representative. Typically, all meals are included on Turkey river cruises as well as gratuities and airport transfers. You also receive complimentary Wi-Fi and Internet access on board the ship and can enjoy all the beverages you like, including soda, coffee, and tea. Luxury accommodations are part of river cruise packages.

  • What’s the Best River Cruise Turkey River Cruises?

    The best Turkey river cruise is one that will meet your plans with respect to off-shore excursions and scheduled destinations. One of the best river cruise providers to contact about Turkey river cruises is Scenic Luxury Tours and Cruises.

  • How Much Do Turkey River Cruises Cost?

    An all-inclusive Turkey river cruise that departs in the month of May and lasts about 14 days runs about $7,600. Ask your river cruise provider about discounted unpublished pricing.

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