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TURKEY & ISTANBUL

 Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Kuşadasi, Selçuk and more

ISRAEL

PETRA

ISTANBUL

TURKEY

Moonscape hills, fairy chimneys, ancient Greek temples and seaside villages.

Inner Turkey has a fascinating collection of UNESCO regions and cities such as Cappadocia, Kuşadasi, Pergamum and Assos. We begin with the moonscape hills and stunningly beautiful villages of Turkey’s Cappadocia region, all sights to behold. Located in the center of Turkey, the Cappadocia region includes the towns of Avanos, Göreme, Nevşehir, Ortahisar, Uçhisar and Ürgüp. We will explore the underground cities, ancient Christian cave art, numerous hiking trails and volcanos, “fairy chimney” rock formations, and take a sunrise hot air balloon ride for a view of the breathtaking landscape from above. We will also visit the atmospheric city Selçuk. Ephesus, including the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is believed to have spent her last few days.

We begin and end in magnificent city of Istanbul, where east meets west. Historically known as Constantinople after the Roman Emperor Constantine I, Istanbul was for years the centre of the Roman Byzantium and Ottoman Empires. Home to many of the most recognizable images of the country of Turkey, such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, Istanbul is not to be missed.

Istanbul is Turkey’s most populous city as well as its cultural and financial center. The mosques, bazaars and Turkish baths of Istanbul could keep you happily occupied for your entire trip. On a trip to this gleaming modern city you can immerse yourself in nearly 3000 years of history from Roman ruins to Byzantine marvels, Ottoman treasures and modern amusements.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. Istanbul and inner and southwestern Turkey are excellent locations to learn and master your photogenic techniques. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity.

We begin and end in magnificent city of Istanbul, where east meets west. Historically known as Constantinople after the Roman Emperor Constantine I, Istanbul was for years the centre of the Roman Byzantium and Ottoman Empires. Home to many of the most recognizable images of the country of Turkey, such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque, Istanbul is not to be missed

Istanbul is Turkey’s most populous city as well as its cultural and financial center. The mosques, bazaars and Turkish baths of Istanbul could keep you happily occupied for your entire trip. On a trip to this gleaming modern city you can immerse yourself in nearly 3000 years of history from Roman ruins to Byzantine marvels, Ottoman treasures and modern amusements.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. Istanbul and inner and southwestern Turkey are excellent locations to learn and master your photogenic techniques. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity.

Group Size

4-8 Guests

 

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Busy schedule
  • Travel by minibus, car or airplane
  • Moderate elevation changes and lots of walking
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

 

Weather | Sun

July – Temps 72-80/64 F 22-25/16 C Sunrise 5:48 | Sunset 8:34 (20:34)
October – Temps 68-76/55 F 20-24/12 C Sunrise 7:10 | Sunset 6:27 (18:27)

 

Includes

  • 12 Days
  • Travel, landscape, seascape, architecture, street and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-8 guests)
  • 4 or 5-star hotels
  • Breakfasts
  • 4 Dinners and 2 lunches
  • Private guide and driver
  • 3 Domestic flights (Istanbul > Cappadocia > Izmir > Istanbul)
  • Local transportation

 

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airports: Istanbul, Turkey (IST) – Travel time to our hotel 45min
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

 

Accommodations

Istanbul – Arcadia Blue Hotel, Hotel Sultania, Eresin Crown Hotel or similar
Cappadocia – Yunak House Cave Hotel or similar
Kuşadasi – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Charisma De Luxe Hotel or similar

Excursions

Hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia (optional – fee applies)

Helpful Links

> Let’s Explore Istanbul Together – by Merve Sertoglu
> Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel – by Michael Chinnici
> 20 Days in Turkey – by Michael Chinnici
> Things to Do in Turkey – by Team Think Orange
> Coffee Around the World – by Ian Robert Knight
> Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia – by Roman Martin

Turkey & Istanbul Prices & Dates

Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Roman Martin

October 22 – November 2, 2023
October 19-31, 2024

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

ISTANBUL & TURKEY 12 DAYS

Day 1 | Istanbul

We meet in the morning at our hotel in the Sultanahmet section of Istanbul. We begin with an informal discussion on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques.

After we will take a photo walk of this magnificent and magical city, home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. We’ll explore the Galata Bridge which links Old Istanbul and Beyoğlu via the Golden Horn. Walk north through Karaköy (Galata) and uphill to Galata Tower.

In the evening we celebrate with our “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Istanbul restaurants.

Day 2 | Istanbul - Cappadocia - Red Valley - Uçhisar

After breakfast we depart for the airport and fly to amazing Cappadocia. En route we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles to Great Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.

In Cappadocia we begin by visiting one of the fascinating subterranean cities complete with a ventilation system and a water well. We’ll visit a winery with rolling stone doors and focus on soft light photography in the Red Valley and the natural rock citadel of Uçhisar.

Our Cave Hotel will amaze you. It is carved into the side of a mountain, as are many of the homes, hotels and churches in Cappadocia. (B) (L)

Day 3 | Cappadocia - Göreme Valley - Fairy Chimneys - Zelve

Cappadocia is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Göreme Valley. The lunar like landscape of this region is eerie, yet beautiful. Over thousands of years, the rain has eroded this landscape to give rise to strange rock formations known as “Fairy Chimneys”. Many of these have homes and churches carved into them. Some of the grottos are magnificently decorated with colorful frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Just imagine the amazing photographic opportunities!

In the afternoon we visit Zelve, which became one of the most important settlements and religious centers for the Christian community between the 9th and 13th centuries. (B) (L)

Day 4 | Cappadocia - Balloon - Dervent Valley - Pasabagi

We depart in the early morning hours for an optional Hot Air Balloon (additional fee) ride over Cappadocia. Here we will capture the morning light and photograph the intense rock formations in the Dervent Valley. In the afternoon and evening we work on some soft light photography in the hidden monastic valley of Pasabagi. (B)

Day 5 | Izmir - Kuşadasi

After breakfast we depart for Kayseri Airport for a domestic flight to Izmir, where we will begin our exploration of the western coast of Turkey. Upon arrival we will transfer to Kuşadasi and our hotel by the sea. Here you can rest and enjoy the features of our wonderful hotel or walk the streets and docks of the seaside village.

Day 6 | Selçuk - Ephesus - Şirince

After breakfast we devote the entire day to sightseeing in and around the atmospheric city Selçuk. Ephesus, the largest ancient city ever uncovered, includes an amphitheater which can still hold 24,000 spectators, marble covered streets, gymnasiums, public latrines, the library of Celsus and the temple of Artemis.

Next we visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is believed to have spent her last few days. And finally the historic hill village of Şirince, where we will photograph the old houses and local merchants. Dinner is included. (B) (D)

Day 7 | Kuşadasi - Istanbul - Palaces - Spice Bazaar

On day seven we depart Kuşadasi for our return flight to Istanbul and check back into our hotel. After lunch we begin our photo walk of this magnificent and magical city, home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. We’ll explore the Spice Bazaar where the scent of hundreds of spices permeates the air, and then embark on a cruise of the Bosphorus. Along the way we will view the Dolmabahçe Palace and the Beylerbeyi Palace, a 19th century palace on the Asian side of Istanbul. Dinner is included. (B) (D)

Day 8 | Istanbul - Blue Mosque - Topkapi Palace - Grand Bazaar

We begin our day before sunrise with a walk through Sultanahmet. After breakfast we view the amazing Blue Mosque whose interior walls are covered with 20,000 blue Iznik tiles. After we will visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once home to the great Sultans and filled with treasures and antiquities including 12,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain.

We then enjoy a wonderful lunch at the Konyali Restaurant, located within the gardens of Topkapi Palace with its amazing views of the Marmara Sea and the Asian Side of Istanbul. We continue to explore the Hippodrome and domed Basilica of St. Sophia, which has inspired architects and religious leaders for over 1,500 years. And finally the Grand Bazaar, built in 1457. (B)

Day 9 | Istanbul - Beyoğlu - Karaköy (Galata) - Taksim Square

We start with a brief review of some of your favorite photos to date. Then we explore the romance of late Ottoman Istanbul on a walking photo tour of Beyoğlu, and a visit to the sultan’s most lavish palace. We start with Galata Bridge over the Golden Horn which links Old Istanbul and Beyoğlu. Take in the view, then walk north through Karaköy (Galata) and uphill to Galata Tower. İstiklal Caddesi (Independence Avenue) is the heart of Beyoğlu, the more modern district of Istanbul built during the 19th century. We’ll visit Taksim Square which is the heart of modern Istanbul.

After lunch we go downhill to Dolmabahçe Palace. With a façade almost 400 meters (1/4 mile) long, this is the mother of all Ottoman palaces, and a must-see if you’re into magnificence. The evening is yours. We suggest possibly trying the Turkish Baths. It’s a great way to end a long day. (B)

Day 10 | Istanbul - Black Sea - Şile - Ağva - Maiden’s Tower

We depart Istanbul early in the morning for a day trip to the Black Sea villages of Şile & Ağva. Heading northeast of Istanbul on the Anatolian side, we will arrive in Şile, a small Black Sea fishing town situated on rocks. Known for its sandy beaches and famous Şile bezi, an open-weave cotton fabric, it is the perfect first stop. Once a port of call for ships sailing east from the Bosphorus, enjoy a stroll along the fishing harbor or relax with a tea at the hilltop cafe overlooking the Şile lighthouse.

On the way to Ağva we come across picturesque traditional Turkish villages like Kabakoz and Suaybli where time seems to have stood still. So near to Istanbul distance-wise, yet so far in their way of life. Experience the friendless and curiosity of these villagers.

Continuing along the coastal route we arrive in Ağva, deep in nature and situated between the Yesilcay and Göksu rivers that flow into the Black Sea. Upon arrival you will find peace in a leisurely boat ride down the Göksu river. Set in a landscape so green and rich, bask in the sights of Ağva. After taking in a magnificent view overlooking the sea and bluffs, we will break for lunch where you may dine on the local fish.

Next you will have a choice to truly unwind in the beauty of the Black Sea region by either relaxing along the Göksu river, or on one of Ağvas sandy beaches. Surrounded by forest and cliffs, the fresh, blue green waters of the sea are calling you. Get lost in nature. In the late afternoon we return to Istanbul and photograph to famous Maiden Tower at sunset on the Asian side of Istanbul. (B)

Day 11 | Istanbul - Sultanahmet - Basilica Cistern

We begin our morning with a photography discussion and a review of work to date. Afterwards we depart for several neighborhoods in old Istanbul with a focus on photojournalism and street photography. We will visit the Basilica Cistern – the largest underground reservoir in the city, constructed in the 6th century to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople, Topkapi Palace and others.

In the evening we prepare for our “Farewell Dinner” at another one of our favorite restaurants of Istanbul. (B) (D)

Day 12 | Istanbul

While enjoying breakfast we conduct our final group discussion, review our past weeks photos, trade contact information and bid you farewell. You may however, book extra nights with us and extend your stay in Europe or Asia and apply all the wonderful photographic techniques you learned on this photo adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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