Spring in Türkiye
Türkiye—As it Blooms
Rich in history. Lush with life.
When asked, “When is the best time to visit Türkiye?” our answer has always been the spring or fall. Sometimes considered ‘shoulder-seasons,’ these are the times when crowds aren’t as dense and the weather is perfect for long hikes and days spent exploring. Here, we’re diving into what makes springtime here unique.
Cappadocia in green
Ancient sites with fresh life
Tulip season in Istanbul
Türkiye in Spring
Our month of choice, May, is when valleys green, ancient ruins glow under soft light, and the coast offers calm, breezy days. This itinerary weaves through landscapes and cultural centers, from the blossoming canyons of Cappadocia to the high mountain passes of Antalya, the quiet coves of the Turquoise Coast, and the marble streets of Ephesus. It all culminates in Istanbul, where tulips bloom across gardens and centuries of history unfold around every corner.
DAYS 1-4
Cappadocia: Verdant Valleys & Underground Cities
Spring softens Cappadocia’s dramatic landscapes, filling its valleys with fresh greenery and orchards in bloom. Over four days, you’ll walk through Pigeon Valley and the rose-hued Red Valley, visit centuries-old rock-cut churches, and descend into a remarkable underground city carved deep into volcanic stone. Optional sunrise ballooning offers a breathtaking view of this blossoming landscape from above.
Spring Highlight: Wildflowers brighten every trail, and the apricot blossoms signal the true start of spring in Cappadocia.
Stay: Avantgarde Hotel, Ürgüp
DAY 5
Konya: Mystics, Monuments & the Ancient First City
Travel west across the bright green Anatolian Plain, stopping at the restored Sultanhani Caravanserai, once a vital refuge along the Silk Road. In Konya, wander through the serene Mevlana Museum, final resting place of Rumi, before continuing to the early Neolithic settlement of Çatalhöyük, considered one of the world’s first cities. This day offers a fascinating shift from volcanic landscapes to deep spiritual and archaeological history.
Spring Highlight: Fields of winter wheat glow intensely green—Konya’s most vivid season of the year.
Stay: Ramada Konya
DAYS 6-7
Antalya: Mountains, Theaters & the Spark of the Mediterranean
From Konya, wind through the forested Taurus Mountains, where spring brings cool breezes and fresh alpine scents. Visit the remarkably preserved Aspendus theater before descending to the Mediterranean and the lively coastal city of Antalya. The next day, you’ll hike to the mountaintop ruins of Termessos, one of Türkiye’s most dramatic ancient sites, then explore the outstanding Antalya Archaeological Museum.
Spring Highlight: The Mediterranean coast is warm but not yet hot—perfect for hiking, exploring, and enjoying early-season clarity on the water.
Stay: AKRA Antalya
DAY 8
Turquoise Coast: Ancient Myra & Your First Night at Sea
Begin your coastal chapter with a visit to the ancient city of Myra, known for its towering rock-cut tombs and grand Roman theater. From nearby Çayağzı, board your elegant gulet and sail toward the sheltered waters of Kekova, where spring brings calm seas and crystalline light. Climb ashore to the hillside village of Kale for sweeping views over the turquoise bay. Tonight marks the first of many peaceful evenings anchored beneath the stars.
Spring Highlight: The coast is quiet and fragrant, with blooming shrubs perfuming the air—an ideal moment to begin life onboard.
Stay: Gulet Tanem H
DAYS 9-12
Turquoise Coast: Island Ruins, Pine Forest Trails & Quiet Bays
Sail west to explore the charming town of Kaş, the monastery ruins on Gemiler Island, and the remote ancient site of Lydae, reached by a scenic spring hike through pine forests. Drift through the marshes of Dalyan to the riverside ruins of Caunus, passing the famous Lycian tombs carved high into the cliffs. Each day offers a balance of exploration and unhurried afternoons for swimming, reading, or resting on deck. Evenings bring secluded anchorages illuminated by clear skies.
Spring Highlight: The bays are calm, the forests newly green, and the trails cool—perfect conditions before summer arrives.
Stay: Gulet Tanem H
DAY 13
Selçuk: Aegean Villages & Ancient Oracles
After disembarking, travel north to the monumental Temple of Apollo at Didyma, learning about ancient prophecy and Greek oracles. Continue past Miletus and arrive in Selçuk, where you’ll wander a lively Aegean farmers market full of spring produce. It’s a day that shifts from coastal serenity to the warm, village feel of western Türkiye.
Spring Highlight: Artichokes, herbs, and early stone fruits fill the markets—a delicious expression of Aegean spring.
Stay: Akanthus Hotel, Selçuk
DAY 14
Ephesus: Marble Streets & Timeless Grandeur
Spend the day exploring Ephesus, one of the finest classical sites in the world, including the Library of Celsus, grand theater, and exquisite terrace houses. Time permitting, visit the Basilica of St. John, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the site of the Temple of Artemis. Mild weather and soft spring light bring a special calm to the city’s marble avenues.
Spring Highlight: Ephesus glows in spring—the air mild, the hillsides green, and the ancient stones warm under the sun.
Stay: Akanthus Hotel, Selçuk
DAYS 15-19
Istanbul: Tulips, Minarets & the Heart of Empires
Arrive in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet, where you’ll spend several days exploring icons such as the Blue Mosque, Aya Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the ancient Hippodrome. Wander the vibrant Spice Bazaar, exquisite Rustem Pasha Mosque, and the legendary Grand Bazaar, followed by a private cruise along the Bosphorus. Explore Taksim Square, stroll down Istiklal Street, and climb the Galata Tower for sweeping views across Europe and Asia. Spring brings the city to life with blooming tulips and long golden evenings.
Spring Highlight: Istanbul’s tulip season transforms parks, courtyards, and even palace grounds into living gardens—an iconic Ottoman spring tradition.
Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sultanahmet
Experience it for yourself
Our spring Origins of Western Civilization itinerary (outlined here) beings on May 11, 2026—and for a short time is included in our Black Friday Sale.*
Upcoming Spring Trips:
May 11-29, 2026 | 19-Day Itinerary
May 16–29, 2026 | 14-Day Itinerary
May 03–21, 2027 | 19-Day Itinerary
May 08–21, 2027 | 14-Day Itinerary
*Sale ends December 5th at 5pm.
YOUR GUIDE
Bihter Kuranel
Bihter has guided travelers through Türkiye since 1997, sharing her deep knowledge of history, nature, and culture with warmth and clarity. Her engaging style and passion for place make her a guest favorite—and ours too.
YOUR CRUISE
Gulet: Tanhem H
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and exploration aboard the Tanem H—a 98-foot gulet with six elegant cabins, contemporary amenities, and a warm, attentive crew. Designed for relaxed coastal cruising, it's the ideal way to take in the history, beauty, and serenity of Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHT
Istanbul: Four Seasons Sultanahmet
An oasis of calm in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet offers refined luxury just steps from Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Set around a serene courtyard garden, this 65-room retreat is one of our favorite hotels in the world.