in Turkey itinerary: Family Adventure in Cappadocia and on the Lycian Coast

Trip Details

Arrival in Cappadocia and transfer to your hotel. Cappadocia will amaze you with the shapes and colors of its tuff formations—unique in the world. And so begins your journey of wonder in the land of fairy chimneys…

This morning, you will hike through beautiful scenery, admiring the pigeon houses of the Zemidere Valley as you make your way to the rocky outcrop of Uçhisar, which towers over the region. You can climb to its summit. After lunch, our vehicle will take you to the Derinkuyu Underground City, which extends eight levels deep. The discovered stone chambers could accommodate at least 40,000 people, with 10,000 able to stay for extended periods. The city featured places of worship, storage rooms, stables, sheep pens, wine and oil presses, kitchens, refectories, and a vast vaulted room on the second level.

Set off on a hiking and camping expedition through the region's most beautiful valleys: first, the Baglidere Valley with its massive fairy chimneys, followed by the Kizilçukur (Red) and Güllüdere (Rose) valleys and their extraordinary landscapes. You will set out in search of hidden Byzantine rock-cut churches. Arrive at the village of Çavuşin, featuring an impressive cliffside cave settlement. Approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking, including a picnic lunch. We will spend the night camping out in the valley; dinner and breakfast are provided, and all camping equipment is included. Your guide will stay with you.

Off you go with your guide to a small village to try your hand at cooking with the local women. We offer a cooking class hosted by a local family or a women's cooperative, followed by a lunch where you can enjoy the regional specialties you have prepared using fresh, seasonal, local ingredients. Afterwards, set off with your guide to explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a monastic complex featuring Byzantine rock-cut churches adorned with frescoes that offer a glimpse into the lives of Byzantine monks from that era. Conclude the day with a two-hour sunset horseback ride.

Transfer to Cappadocia Airport and fly to Antalya (flight not included). Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and head to Çıralı Bay, located an hour and a half west of Antalya. Check into your bungalow. Time for swimming and relaxation.

Çıralı is situated in a lush, protected valley (there are no permanent concrete structures here). It is also a key stop on the Lycian Way, offering opportunities for lovely hikes. The area is home to Olympos—an archaeological site still under excavation, set by a magnificent bay framed by mountains—and the remarkable Chimaera site, where eternal flames burn. Take advantage of your car to visit nearby bays like Adrasan for a fantastic swim, as well as Olympos Bay. Day trips by boat are also available.

Take a drive of about two and a half hours along the coast to reach the small town of Kaş and its peninsula. A charming Mediterranean fishing town with a delightful atmosphere, Kaş allows you to discover the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Antiphellos, including a theater and tombs. The surrounding area boasts numerous sites and beaches. The region offers plenty of hiking opportunities; the Lycian Way is a famous trail that runs through the area, offering spectacular views. You can also join boat excursions to explore the coastline, hidden coves, and nearby islands. There are also possibilities for diving activities.

Explore the Bay of Kekova in an original way. Take a short drive to Kekova, where you'll be briefed by your guide. Paddle over the ancient Lycian Sunken City to get an unparalleled view of the ruins, then continue on to Simena, an ancient settlement, and on to Kaleköy for a break or to enjoy lunch. On most excursions, there is the option to walk up to the ruined castle and explore the extensive necropolis. In the afternoon, we head back towards Üçağız for an up-close view of more impressive Lycian sarcophagi, and then return to our kayak base. Transfer back to Kaş. Kekova Bay can also be visited the day before by car, on your way from Antalya. Local fishermen offer boat tours.

Head west towards Fethiye. On the way, explore the beautiful ancient Lycian city of Xanthos and its well-preserved theater—one of the region's key historical sites. Stop at the charming town of Kalkan. Looking for a fine sandy beach? Patara is perfect, offering sand dunes, shallow waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. Next, stop at Butterfly Valley, with its spectacular scenery, sheer cliffs, fine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. Arrive in Fethiye and settle in. For two days, enjoy the beaches and landscapes. Possibility of tandem paragliding and adrenaline rafting activities. Possibility of a day trip to the Greek island of Rhodes.

Return to Antalya via an inland route (approx. 3 hours) to position yourself closer to the airport. You might like to visit, on the way, the ancient site of Termessos, perched on a mountain. In Antalya, explore the historic Kaleiçi district with its maze of pedestrian shopping streets or Hadrian’s Gate. This triumphal arch—built in honor of the Roman emperor—features three vaulted arches. Enjoy the lively ambiance of its restaurants and bars. Final night before departure.

Return your car at Antalya Airport for your return flight.

More trip ideas in Turkey (4)

LOCAL HERO

Tovi and their team

Your local agent for cultural and adventurous trips in Turkey

4.8

360 reviews

Joined Evaneossince 13 years

Certification (in progress)Travelife Partner

They traveled with Tovi’s agency

Ric

December 15, 2019

Silk route in Turkey. Amazing places.

Laslo Nimne

January 12, 2019

It was a most excellent trip.

MikeP

October 12, 2015

Excellent service from you, thanks. The hotel is Pamukalle exceeded all expectations and also the meal in the restaurant was one of the best we had all holiday. The Nazar hotel room in Selcuk was really too small for a double room - and the management know this. We suggested it would have been better without the wardrobe but with a small table/chest of drawers. Owner agreed, but said other guests wanted a wardrobe! I gather changes are planned. I gather this was one of there smallest rooms anyway, so this would not apply to other rooms. Having said that the Nazar hotel service was exceptional - drinks in the garden by the pool, first rate breakfast and an evening meal on the terrace that was also one of the best we had. The staff were so obliging - nothing was too much trouble for them. Good source of information about visits etc. Would happily go again - but in a bigger room.

Family Adventure in Cappadocia and on the Lycian Coast

The trip in brief

Trip Details

Included in this price

Not included

Nothing is set in stone: adjust each step with your local agency.

They traveled with Tovi’s agency

More trip ideas in Turkey based on your interests

Family Adventure in Cappadocia and on the Lycian Coast

The trip in brief

Trip Details

Arrival in the Land of FairiesDay 1Cappadocia

Underground City and Hiking in the Zemidere ValleyDay 2Uchisar · Derinkuyu

Hiking and Camping in the Fairy Chimney Valleys.Day 3Çavuşin

Have fun cooking with the locals, Göreme rock-hewn churches, and horseback ridingDay 4Göreme

Antalya and the luscious bay of ÇıralıDay 5Antalya · Çıralı

Cirali, Land of ChimeraDay 6Çıralı

The Seaside Town of KaşDay 7Kas

Sea Kayaking to the Magnificent Bay of KekovaDay 8Kekova

Off to Fethiye and the Lagoon of OludenizDay 9-10Fethiye

Back to AntalyaDay 11Termessos · Antalya

Bye bye, amazing Turkey!Day 12Antalya

Included in this price

Not included

Nothing is set in stone: adjust each step with your local agency.

They traveled with Tovi’s agency

More trip ideas in Turkey based on your interests