Turkey with History Dose
Dates
Jun 18–26, 2024
Group Size
8–20 Travelers
Duration
9 days, 8 nights
Activity Level
Relaxation
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileHistory Dose
We're Chris and Joe, the two brothers behind History Dose! For the last five years, we've worked to capture the wonder, terror, and beauty of the past through videos. History has also left us much to explore in-person: ancient ruins, medieval monuments, and vibrant cultures. We're thrilled to set foot "in the past," and we hope you can join us!
Trip Activities
Hagia Sophia Entrance
Blue Mosque Entrance
Hippodrome Entrance
Grand Bazaar Entrance
Orientation Tour of Ayvalik
Kucukkoy Village Visit
Ephesus Entrance
Artemis Temple Visit
Hierapolis Visit
Orientation Tour of Cappadocia
Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
Avanos Pottery Experience
Ozkonak Underground City Visit
Optional Activities*
Hot Air Balloons Over Cappadocia
*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.
Included in Your Trip
Double occupancy in 3 & 4-star hotels
Local Guide throughout trip
All city transfers
Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)
Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)
Not Included
International flights
Food & alcohol (except as noted)
Visas & travel insurance
Airport transfers outside of designated times
Tips for Guides
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Info
Airport Transfer
TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Istanbul International Airport (IST), between 8 am and 5 pm.
dinner
Get to know your fellow Travelers. Your welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included.
The Haze Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Istanbul.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Hagia Sophia Entrance
Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and your Guide will take you on a trip through the centuries while describing the Mosque’s fascinating transformation from a church to a mosque, then a museum, and recently back to a mosque again.
Blue Mosque Entrance
Constructed between 1609 and 1616, The Blue Mosque is one of the most striking sights in Istanbul with its iconic blue tiles, 260 windows, and 6 minarets.
Hippodrome Entrance
You will walk through the Hippodrome, a charming promenade where locals now congregate and was once the sporting and social center of Constantinople, the capital of the Byzantine Empire.
Grand Bazaar Entrance
Explore the Grand Bazaar where your Guide will help you navigate its maze of stalls to search for treasures as many others have for hundreds of years.
The Haze Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Istanbul.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Orientation Tour of Ayvalik
Ayvalik boasts an ambiance that one could describe as quintessential Aegean. Your local Guide will lead you around the town to discover all of its hidden gems.
Orchis Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Ayvalik.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Kucukkoy Village Visit
Visit a tiny village on the outskirts of a town called Kucukkoy, known for its local artists and laid-back cafe life. You’ll pop in for a coffee and check out a few shops and galleries before hitting the road.
Ephesus Entrance
The well-preserved ruins of Ephesus truly make the Greco-Roman world come alive as you will traverse the ancient city.
Artemis Temple Visit
Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Once the largest manmade structure on Earth, the Temple of Artemis was completely rebuilt twice, once after a great flood and the second time destroyed by an East Germanic tribe in 401 AD.
Hitit Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Selcuk.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Hierapolis Visit
On your visit to Hierapolis, you will walk through over 1200 graves at the necropolis and see the old ruined Roman baths. Next, you will head towards Pamukkale. Translating to ‘Cotton Palace,’ it is an oddly beautiful sight of petrified waterfalls that flow into a series of terraced basins. The calcite-laden waters emerge from a hot spring that was once used as thermal spas in antiquity.
Hitit Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Selcuk.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Domestic Flight
Domestic flight
Orientation Tour of Cappadocia
Cappadocia is nothing short of a fantastical geological oddity, a semi-arid canyon with massive honey-comb-shaped rock formations called ‘fairy chimneys.’ For centuries the locals have utilized the rocks, building homes in cave-like structures.
Empire Cave Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Goreme Open Air Museum Visit
The Goreme Open Air Museum was once a vast monastic complex composed of monasteries and churches carved directly into the rock. Bizarre and beautiful, the complex appears like it could be the set of a science fiction film.
Avanos Pottery Experience
Welcome to the town of Avanos, set on the banks of Turkey’s longest river, the Kizilirmak River. Also known as the ‘The Red River,’ the Kizilirmak produces a deep red clay used to make pottery with techniques that date back to 2000 BC.
Ozkonak Underground City Visit
Discovered in 1972 by a farmer who followed the water drainage only to discover the mysterious underground network, the exact age of this Cappadocian city is still unknown.
Hot Air Balloons Over Cappadocia (optional)
If a balloon ride is on your bucket list, there's one place in the world you can't miss: the lunar landscape of Cappadocia, Turkey. Just hop in your basket and join the hosts of brightly-hued balloons that float above the region's volcanic spires and honeycombed hills. Weather permitting.
Empire Cave Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Domestic Flight
Domestic Flight
dinner
Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included.
The Haze Hotel (or similar)
Overnight in Istanbul.
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
Airport Transfer
TrovaTrip will provide 2 transfers to Istanbul International Airport (IST) on the last day.
Physical Activity Level:Relaxation
These trips are designed to help you get into (and stay in) chill mode. Think hanging out, good food and good conversation. These trips won't make you break a sweat unless you want to.
Cancellation Policy
We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:
Spot Pending
Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip
Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
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FAQ
Traveling with TrovaTrip
What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?
Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.
What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:
- The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
- The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
- TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?
First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:
- Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
- Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
- Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
- Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
- We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.
We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”
Can I book solo?
Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:
- Spot pending – 100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
- Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your trip – Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.
- Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your trip – Non-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
What's included in the trip cost?
Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.
Will I have free time?
Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.
What do the activity levels mean?
Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:
- Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
- Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
- Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
- Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
- Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)
You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!
Accommodations
What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?
When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.
Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?
Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.
Trip Operations & Compliance
Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?
Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?
If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.
General Travel Questions
Do I need any documentation to travel?
It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise.
Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.
Do I need any vaccines?
It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!
Are flights included in the trip cost?
Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.
Can you accommodate my dietary needs?
We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.