17-Day Best of Turkey & Egypt Tour: Istanbul to Nile Cruise
Tour Overview
Quick Answer
This 17-day Turkey & Egypt tour combines Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia, Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and a 3-night Nile Cruise with 4- and 5-star accommodations, domestic and international flights, guided sightseeing, and private transfers.
Experience two of the world's most fascinating civilizations on a carefully designed 17-day journey through Turkey and Egypt. Explore the imperial landmarks of Istanbul before discovering the ancient cities of Ephesus, Hierapolis, Perge, Aspendos, and Side. Continue to Cappadocia's remarkable volcanic landscapes, underground cities, and rock-cut heritage before flying to Egypt. Visit the Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the temples of Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Luxor while enjoying a three-night Nile Cruise between Aswan and Luxor. Carefully coordinated flights, guided tours, and private transfers create a seamless multi-country travel experience across two continents.
📋 Tour at a Glance
| Tour Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Tour Duration | 17 Days / 16 Nights |
| Countries Covered | Turkey • Egypt |
| Main Destinations | Istanbul, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia, Cairo, Aswan, Nile River Cruise, Luxor |
| Tour Style | A multi-country cultural journey combining guided sightseeing, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, archaeological landmarks, natural landscapes, and a Nile River Cruise. |
| Travel Style | A carefully coordinated itinerary featuring guided sightseeing, domestic and international flights, private transfers, a Nile River Cruise, and independent leisure time between scheduled activities. |
| Guide Language | English (Licensed Guide) |
| Group Type | Private & Small Group Combination |
| Maximum Group Size | Up to 14 guests in Turkey and up to 35 guests in Egypt. Small groups are used only during scheduled sightseeing tours. Flights, airport transfers, cruise embarkation and disembarkation transfers, hotel transfers, and leisure time are arranged independently. |
| Accommodation | 9 nights in carefully selected 4-star hotels in Turkey, 4 nights in selected 5-star hotels in Egypt, and 3 nights aboard a 5-star Nile River Cruise. |
| Meals Included | 16 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 3 dinners. |
| Flights Included | Domestic flights within Turkey and Egypt, plus the international flight from Istanbul to Cairo. |
| Cruise Experience | 3-night 5-star Nile River Cruise sailing from Aswan to Luxor with guided sightseeing and full-board meals. |
| Starting Price | From €4,775 per person (Seasonal pricing may vary depending on travel dates, flight availability, and hotel selection.) |
| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 30 days before the tour departure date. |
| Best Travel Season | Available all year round. |
| Physical Difficulty | Moderate. Daily sightseeing includes walking through archaeological sites, museums, historic districts, and uneven terrain with occasional stairs. |
| Recommended For | First-time visitors, history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, archaeology lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a comprehensive Turkey and Egypt journey featuring ancient monuments and a Nile River Cruise. |
Highlights
Explore Istanbul's historic treasures, including Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome, and the Grand Bazaar before cruising along the Bosphorus.
Discover the ancient cities of Ephesus, Hierapolis, Perge, Aspendos, and Side while experiencing some of Turkey's most significant archaeological landmarks.
Experience Cappadocia's extraordinary landscapes by visiting Uçhisar Castle, Paşabağ, Zelve Open-Air Museum, Kaymaklı Underground City, and Soganli Valley.
Visit Egypt's iconic monuments, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, Saqqara, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
Cruise the Nile between Aswan and Luxor while exploring Philae Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings.
Discover two ancient civilizations in one itinerary, combining UNESCO World Heritage Sites, archaeological landmarks, cultural heritage, and remarkable natural landscapes across Turkey and Egypt.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Istanbul, one of the world's most fascinating cultural capitals, your private driver will meet you at the airport or cruise terminal and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. Check-in is available after 1:00 PM. Once you've settled in, your travel consultant will provide a detailed overview of your upcoming Turkey and Egypt combined tour package, ensuring you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead. Spend the remainder of the day discovering the city's lively atmosphere at your own pace or simply relaxing before your journey begins.
Enjoy breakfast before meeting your private guide for an unforgettable Istanbul Old City Tour. Walk through centuries of history as you visit the impressive Hippodrome, home to the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, and the elegant German Fountain.
Continue to the magnificent Blue Mosque, admired for its striking architecture and beautiful blue İznik tiles, before exploring the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, one of the world's greatest architectural masterpieces.
Afterwards, discover the former residence of Ottoman sultans at Topkapi Palace, where priceless treasures and imperial collections await. Your day concludes with free time inside the vibrant Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world, featuring thousands of traditional shops offering carpets, ceramics, jewelry, spices, and local handicrafts.
Return to your hotel during the late afternoon.
Following breakfast, depart for a memorable Bosphorus Cruise Tour, one of the highlights of every Istanbul sightseeing tour. Drive along the historic Golden Horn while admiring the impressive Byzantine city walls before arriving at the colorful Spice Bazaar, where exotic aromas and local delicacies create a unique shopping experience.
Board your boat for an unforgettable cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, sailing between Europe and Asia while enjoying spectacular views of Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and iconic suspension bridges.
After the cruise ends, you'll be privately transferred to the airport for your domestic flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, continue with a comfortable transfer to the charming seaside town of Kusadasi, your gateway to tomorrow's archaeological discoveries.
After breakfast, begin your full-day Ephesus guided tour from Kusadasi, exploring one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean.
Your first stop is the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the final residence of Mary. Continue to the spectacular ancient city of Ephesus, where you'll walk along marble streets lined with remarkable monuments including the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theatre, ancient temples, and Roman baths.
Following lunch, visit the remains of the Temple of Artemis, once recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Before returning to your hotel, enjoy free time in the picturesque village of Sirince, famous for its stone houses, fruit wines, and authentic Turkish atmosphere.
Today you'll travel inland to experience one of Turkey's most extraordinary natural landscapes during your Pamukkale day tour.
Known as the "Cotton Castle," Pamukkale is famous for its dazzling white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. After lunch, explore the nearby UNESCO-listed ancient city of Hierapolis, where you'll visit the Temple of Apollo, Roman Theatre, Necropolis, and the ancient thermal baths that have attracted visitors for thousands of years.
After your sightseeing concludes, continue south by road to the beautiful Mediterranean city of Antalya.
Following breakfast, set off on a fascinating journey through the ancient civilizations of southern Turkey.
Your first destination is Perge, once the prosperous capital of Pamphylia. Wander among remarkably preserved Roman baths, monumental gates, the agora, colonnaded streets, stadium, and impressive fountains that reveal the city's rich heritage.
Continue to the magnificent Aspendos Theatre, widely regarded as one of the finest surviving Roman theatres in the world thanks to its exceptional state of preservation.
Enjoy lunch beside a peaceful riverside setting before heading to the charming coastal town of Side, where you'll explore the impressive Roman Theatre and admire the beautiful Temple of Apollo overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. You'll also have free time to stroll through the old town or relax by the waterfront.
On your return journey to Antalya, stop at the scenic Kursunlu Waterfall before transferring back to your hotel.
After breakfast, transfer to Antalya Airport for your domestic flight to Kayseri. Upon arrival, your private driver will take you to Göreme, the heart of magical Cappadocia.
The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore the unique volcanic landscape surrounding your hotel.
Begin your exploration of extraordinary Cappadocia with a full-day sightseeing experience.
Visit Uchisar Castle, the region's highest natural viewpoint, before continuing to the colorful rock formations of Rose Valley and the famous fairy chimneys of Pasabag. Explore the fascinating Zelve Open Air Museum, where ancient cave churches and monastic settlements reveal centuries of history.
After lunch, discover the imaginative landscapes of Devrent Valley, often called Imagination Valley, followed by panoramic views at Three Beauties Valley.
Complete your day in Avanos, renowned for its centuries-old pottery tradition, where you'll enjoy a live pottery demonstration and have the opportunity to create your own ceramic masterpiece.
Optional: Experience the unforgettable Cappadocia hot air balloon experience at sunrise for breathtaking panoramic views over the valleys.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, continue discovering southern Cappadocia.
Photograph the impressive Ortahisar Castle, then visit the historic Greek village of Mustafapasa, known for its elegant stone mansions and rich cultural heritage.
Continue through Sobesos, where beautifully preserved Roman mosaics have been uncovered, before enjoying a scenic walk through Soganli Valley, famous for its rock-cut churches and peaceful surroundings.
Following lunch, descend into the fascinating Kaymakli Underground City, an incredible underground settlement once used for protection by early Christian communities.
After your tour, transfer to Kayseri Airport for your flight back to Istanbul, where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel.
Your international adventure continues as you fly from Istanbul to Cairo, beginning the Egyptian chapter of your unforgettable Turkey and Egypt holiday package.
Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by your local representative and transferred privately to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin discovering Egypt's vibrant capital.
Today's excursion introduces you to some of humanity's greatest archaeological achievements during your Great Pyramids of Giza tour.
Begin at Saqqara, home to the remarkable Step Pyramid of King Djoser, considered the world's oldest large-scale stone monument.
Continue to the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza, where you'll stand before the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure before meeting the mysterious Great Sphinx, one of Egypt's most recognizable symbols.
After breakfast, explore the extraordinary Grand Egyptian Museum, home to priceless treasures from ancient Egypt, including spectacular artifacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Later, enjoy free time wandering through the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East and an ideal place to shop for spices, jewelry, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.
In the evening, board your flight to Aswan.
This morning, board your elegant Luxury Nile Cruise Egypt before visiting the magnificent Philae Temple, beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Spend the evening relaxing onboard while enjoying the peaceful scenery of the legendary Nile.
Your unforgettable Nile River Cruise Egypt continues as you sail toward Kom Ombo, home to the extraordinary double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god.
Later, continue sailing toward Edfu, enjoying beautiful riverside scenery that has inspired travelers for centuries.
Arrive in magnificent Luxor, often described as the world's greatest open-air museum.
Visit the enormous Karnak Temple Complex, an extraordinary collection of sanctuaries, pylons, and towering columns that illustrate thousands of years of Egyptian history.
Later, continue to the beautifully preserved Luxor Temple, especially stunning as the afternoon light illuminates its ancient stone walls.
Early risers may choose the optional Luxor hot air balloon experience, offering unforgettable sunrise views across the West Bank.
Later, discover the legendary Valley of the Kings, where many pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, were buried. Continue to the impressive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut before stopping at the monumental Colossi of Memnon.
Following your sightseeing, transfer to the airport for your return flight to Cairo.
Enjoy your final breakfast before your private airport transfer. As your memorable Turkey and Egypt combined tour package comes to an end, depart with unforgettable memories of ancient civilizations, spectacular landscapes, and two remarkable countries connected in one extraordinary journey.
Included
Excluded
Additional Notes
- Experience two of the world's greatest ancient civilizations in a single itinerary, combining Turkey's archaeological treasures with Egypt's iconic historical monuments.
- Enjoy a seamless travel experience with included domestic flights, the international flight between Istanbul and Cairo, private airport transfers, and coordinated sightseeing.
- Explore renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient cities, monumental temples, and remarkable natural landscapes with licensed English-speaking guides.
- Balance guided cultural experiences with free time in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Cairo, allowing opportunities for independent exploration.
- Sail on a 5-star Nile Cruise between Aswan and Luxor while visiting some of Egypt's most significant temples and archaeological sites.
- Stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels in Turkey, 5-star hotels in Egypt, and a 5-star Nile Cruise for a comfortable multi-country journey.
- Upgrade to premium or boutique hotels throughout Turkey and Egypt.
- Add an optional sunrise hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia.
- Include an optional sunrise hot air balloon experience over Luxor.
- Extend your stay with additional nights before or after the tour.
- Arrange private guided sightseeing instead of scheduled small group tours where available.
- Personalize your trip with honeymoon amenities, special celebrations, or private airport lounge services.
- Spring and autumn generally provide comfortable temperatures for sightseeing across both Turkey and Egypt.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as archaeological sites such as Ephesus, Hierapolis, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings involve uneven stone pathways.
- Early morning visits often offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography at outdoor historical sites.
- Carry sun protection, a hat, and water when exploring open-air archaeological areas, particularly in Egypt.
- Dress modestly when visiting active mosques and religious sites, and follow local customs where appropriate.
- Keep small denominations of local currency available for personal purchases and optional gratuities during your journey.
Visa requirements for Turkey and Egypt vary depending on your nationality, country of residence, and passport type. We recommend checking the latest entry regulations, visa requirements, and passport validity rules before traveling.
Many travelers can enter Turkey without a visa or obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) online before arrival, depending on their nationality. Egypt also offers visa-free entry for some nationalities, while many visitors are eligible to obtain an e-Visa in advance or a visa on arrival. Entry requirements may change, so it is important to verify the latest official information before your departure.
Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry and contains sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps, where required.
Once your reservation is confirmed, our experienced travel team will be happy to provide the latest visa guidance and entry information to help you prepare for a smooth and hassle-free journey.
- This tour is available for Daily all year round
- Tour Can be customized.
- Price per person, based on a minimum of 2 adults.
- Price does not include international flight tickets.
- Transfers are considered with 1 luggage per person.
- Once domestic air tickets are issued cannot be modified and a 100% fees will apply in case of cancellation
- Domestic flights schedule may change.
- Domestic Flights Baggage Allowance (including 15 kilos of luggage + 8 kilos of hand luggage)
- Step 1: Booking Request & Confirmation
Once we receive your official request to book your chosen tour package, our team will check local availability and confirm all services (hotels, ferries, and transfers) accordingly.
- Step 2: Official Itinerary Review
Once everything is verified, we will email you your official, final tour itinerary detailing every aspect of your day-by-day journey.
- Step 3: Secure Your Reservation
Upon your review and explicit confirmation of this itinerary, we will proceed to the secure payment process to finalize your booking.
- Payment Schedule:
To lock in your dates and secure your hotels/transfers, a 50% booking deposit is required at the time of confirmation. The remaining 50% balance will be automatically and safely charged 3 weeks (21 days) prior to your scheduled tour start date.
🔒 100% Encrypted & Hassle-Free Bank Payment Gateway
- No Card Sharing Required: Your financial security is our top priority. You are never required to share your credit card numbers, CVV, or sensitive information via email, chat, or over the phone.
- How the Secure Link Works: We generate a unique, secure payment link directly through our bank’s certified merchant system. This link is pre-set specifically to your exact due invoice amount.
- The Process: You simply open the link, fill in your credit card information on the bank’s fully encrypted payment form, and the transaction is completed instantly.
- Instant Digital Receipts: The moment your payment is processed, our system automatically generates and emails you an official digital receipt for your financial records.
- Accepted Cards: For your security, we accept VISA and MASTERCARD credit cards only. Please note that debit cards, prepaid cards, or other payment cards are not supported by our secure payment gateway.
Reservations may only be canceled by submitting a formal written notice sent via email or certified mail directly to our agency. Because we pre-pay and secure local boutique hotels, high-speed ferries, and domestic flight entities well in advance on behalf of our travelers, our cancellation policy is strictly structured based on the timeline below:
- ⚠️ DOMESTIC FLIGHTS & FERRIES ARE 100% NON-REFUNDABLE: Once domestic flight or ferry tickets are officially issued, they cannot be modified, and a 100% cancellation fee applies to that portion of the package immediately, regardless of when the cancellation notice is received.
- ⏳ Land Portion Cancellation Scale:
For the remaining land portion costs that are legally recoverable from our local hotel and transfer entities, refunds are calculated as follows:
- Notice received 31 days or more prior to arrival/tour start date: 100% Refund (No cancellation fee applies to the land portion).
- Notice received between 31 and 21 days prior to scheduled tour: 75% Refund of the land portion.
- Notice received between 21 and 14 days prior to scheduled tour: 50% Refund of the land portion.
- Notice received 13 days or less prior to scheduled tour: No Refund will be issued.
Is the international flight between Turkey and Egypt included?
Yes. The international flight from Istanbul to Cairo is included, along with the domestic flights listed in the itinerary.
Are airport and hotel transfers included?
Yes. Private transfers between airports, hotels, and cruise ports are included throughout both Turkey and Egypt.
What type of accommodation is included?
The tour includes 9 nights in 4-star hotels in Turkey, 4 nights in 5-star hotels in Egypt, and 3 nights aboard a 5-star Nile Cruise.
How large are the tour groups?
Sightseeing tours operate with small groups of up to 14 guests in Turkey and up to 35 guests in Egypt. Flights, transfers, and leisure time are arranged independently.
Is the Nile Cruise included?
Yes. A 3-night 5-star Nile Cruise between Aswan and Luxor is included, together with the sightseeing program specified in the itinerary.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
The tour has a moderate physical difficulty level. Participants should be comfortable walking through archaeological sites, museums, and historic districts with uneven surfaces.
Can I join the optional hot air balloon rides?
Yes. Optional hot air balloon experiences are available in Cappadocia and Luxor but are not included in the tour price.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 30 days before the scheduled tour departure date.
