Marmara Tours & Trips
Think Turkey's Marmara region is just Istanbul? The area around the Sea of Marmara includes Istanbul obviously, but also Bursa with its Ottoman heritage and skiing nearby, and Edirne's impressive mosques near Bulgarian border. You're visiting thermal baths, exploring the Dardanelles' WWI sites, with the Prince Islands ideal for car-free relaxation. Marmara's where Europe meets Asia geographically and culturally, and it’s a must visit.
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Cindy • traveled in December, 2025
Great Tour. Accommodation and tour guide were excellent too.
Essence of Istanbul Discovering the City in 4 Days - O
Olga • traveled in February
The tour was such a great experience. The CEO and the people in the tour were fantastic companion for the tour. I would highly recommend it as I had an amazing time!
Classic Istanbul Mini Adventure - P
Peter • traveled in June
All travel arrangements worked perfectly. Our guide Ibrahim was excellent, so knowledgeable and personable. Nothing was too much trouble. So much crammed into 2 days and excellent value. Hotel was clean and comfy, the only downside was the room was very small with only one window overlooking a stair case. Mehmet’s communication was fabulous would definitely use Turkey escapades again.
4 Days Istanbul Highlights
Table of contents
- The best Marmara tour packages
- Travel Marmara your way
- Best tour companies for Marmara tours
- Popular Marmara Cruise Ships
- Discover Marmara tours for every budget
- Marmara tours for every type of group
- Top Marmara travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Marmara
- Contact our Marmara travel experts
- What our customers ask about Marmara Tours & Trips
The best Marmara tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaMarmara travel expert at TourRadar
Essence of Istanbul Discovering the City in 4 Days
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Accommodation and tour guide were excellent too.”
Cindy, traveled in October
Istanbul's architectural treasures in the Marmara region include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The Bosphorus Bridge leads to Beylerbeyi Palace and Camlica Hill. Three nights' accommodation and professional guiding included.
Duration 4 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Guide of Ephesus From
- NZ$1,085
Enchanting Istanbul: A Festive 4-Day Experience of Culture, History, and Shopping
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Lovely accommodation in great location, delicious meals and excellent service.”
Cassandra, traveled in November
The 4-star Recital Hotel in Istanbul's Marmara region offers access to opulent Dolmabahce Palace, Bosphorus cruises, and upscale Nisantasi shopping. Three authentic lunches complement optional evening dinner cruises showcasing Istanbul's illuminated skyline, with English-speaking guides leading all excursions.
Duration 4 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Guide of Ephesus From
- NZ$1,034
Classic Istanbul Mini Adventure
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Good tour with a range of elements - sightseeing, food tours and free time.”
Matthew, traveled in May
The vibrant Marmara region stretches from Taksim Square to the Asian shores of Kadıköy. The magnificent Hagia Sophia and underground Roman ruins await, along with traditional mezze in Karaköy. Visitors can choose hammam visits and Bosphorus cruises.
Duration 4 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From
- NZ$819
4 Days Istanbul Highlights
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Well organised tour, knowledgeable and helpful tour guide. Another hallmark of the tour was the time punctuality.”
Nadeem, traveled in September
Istanbul's cultural richness shines through visits to Hagia Sophia and Byzantine Hippodrome. The iconic Bosphorus cruise leads to Beylerbeyi Palace on the Asian shore. The 4-star Erboy Hotel provides comfort while professional guides earn 4.7/5 ratings.
Duration 4 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range Ages 7+ Operator Turkey Escapades From
- NZ$896
3 Days - Istanbul Mini Package
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Really well organised trip, great communication throughout the process. Very well planned itinerary.”
Vuyelwa, traveled in February
The Marmara region unfolds from Celal Sultan Hotel in Sultanahmet. The 537 AD Hagia Sophia and 400-year-old Topkapi Palace stand as testaments to history. A Bosphorus strait cruise reveals Dolmabahce Palace and historic Ottoman mansions.
Duration 3 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range Ages 8+ Operator Tour Altinkum Travel From
- NZ$607
Explore Marmara region's WWI heritage at Gallipoli Peninsula, visiting ANZAC Cove and Beach Cemetery. Tour the ancient city of Troy's legendary walls and Trojan Horse. Experience the powerful Dawn Service at ANZAC Cove and ceremonies at Chunuk Bair.
Duration 3 days Destinations Istanbul, Eceabat, Gallipoli Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Turkey Tour Booking From
- NZ$981
4 Days - Istanbul Mini Package
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The hotel was exactly cave hotel (Ascension). Breakfast was just amazing in the hotel.”
Mariia, traveled in February
The iconic landmarks of Istanbul await in the Marmara region over 4 days for approx. $160/day. The UNESCO-listed Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace showcase Turkish heritage, while a scenic Bosphorus cruise glides past Ottoman mansions and Dolmabahce Palace. The centrally-located Celal Sultan Hotel caters to couples, who make up 75% of visitors. Most travelers are 59+ seeking an easy-paced cultural experience.
Duration 4 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Tour Altinkum Travel From
- NZ$1,213
2 Nights / 3 Days Best of Istanbul City Guided Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The tour was an unforgettable experience, with stunning locations and workshops and excellent local cuisine.”
Ali, traveled in November
Duration 3 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range Ages 60+ Operated in English, Spanish Operator Moira Travel From
- NZ$809
The magnificent sites of the Marmara region stretch from Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace. The itinerary features scenic Bosphorus cruises and Bursa's historic Inkaya Tree. Accommodations at Ala Sofia or Lady Diana hotel include daily breakfast and English-speaking guides.
Duration 6 days Destinations Istanbul, Bursa Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator STM Tours LLC From $1,434
30% Off- NZ$1,004You save $430
Istanbul's historic peninsula serves as gateway to the Marmara region, featuring Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace. The scenic Dogu Express train carries visitors through landscapes before returning to Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Accommodations at the elegant Metropolitan Taksim or Erboy Hotel.
Duration 9 days Destinations Istanbul Age Range Ages 11+ Operator Turkey Escapades From
30% Off- NZ$5,100
Travel Marmara your way
Best tour companies for Marmara tours
Popular Marmara Cruise Ships
Discover Marmara tours for every budget
Marmara tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Marmara travel itineraries to fit your plans
7 Day Itineraries
Demographics
Solo Travelers54 tours- Couples52 tours
- Seniors (50+)22 tours
Best time to visit Marmara
- Winter 2025 / 2026
- popular 44 tours
- 38 tours
- 37 tours
- Spring 2026
- 42 tours
- popular 49 tours
- 40 tours
- Summer 2026
- popular 39 tours
- 35 tours
- 35 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
- popular 38 tours
- 37 tours
- 34 tours
Contact our Marmara travel experts
Kristina
Expert in Marmara at TourRadar
Kristina is one of our seasoned Marmara Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Marmara tours answered!
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+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Marmara Tours & Trips
When is the best time to visit the Marmara Region for a general tour?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide the most favorable conditions for exploring the Marmara Region. During these months visitors can walk through Istanbul's Sultanahmet district in comfortable temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F). The moderate crowds make it easier to explore sites like the Hippodrome and Topkapi Palace. Summer brings intense heat and large tourist numbers to Istanbul and Bursa while winter offers quiet exploration but with rain and chill. Budget-conscious travelers can find good deals at properties like the Sapphire Hotel in Istanbul's historic center during the off-season months of November through March.
How long should I plan for a comprehensive general tour of the Marmara Region?
A well-paced tour of the Marmara Region needs 5-7 days. The typical route dedicates 3 days to Istanbul's essential sites like the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar followed by 2 days exploring Gallipoli and Troy. The remaining 1-2 days focus on Bursa's historic attractions. Tour operators generally book accommodations at established properties such as the Buyuk Truva hotel in Canakkale and Hilton Garden Inn locations throughout the region ensuring comfortable bases for daily excursions.
What type of accommodations can I expect on a Marmara Region general tour?
The region's accommodations center on 4 and 5-star hotels near key attractions. Istanbul offers properties like the centrally located Sapphire Hotel and La Quinta by Wyndham in Gunesli. Along the coast Canakkale's Buyuk Truva hotel provides views across the Marmara Sea. Wellness-focused travelers often appreciate stays at properties like the Movenpick Hotel & Thermal Spa in Bursa known for its extensive spa facilities and prime location near historic sites.
What cultural experiences are included in Marmara Region general tours?
Tours weave together hands-on cultural activities throughout the region. Visitors explore Istanbul's Egyptian Spice Market join traditional tea ceremonies and watch evening belly dancing performances. Many itineraries include stops at carpet workshops in Bergama and tastings of gozleme (Turkish pastry). The cultural program often extends to Bursa's Silk Market while accommodations at places like the Recital Hotel Sultanahmet place guests in the heart of Turkish heritage areas.
What's the best way to experience the Bosphorus on a general tour?
The Bosphorus experience centers on boat cruises that showcase both European and Asian Istanbul. Boats typically depart from Eminönü or Kabataş passing the Dolmabahce Palace Ortaköy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge. Tours based at the Port Bosphorus Hotel often include both daytime sightseeing voyages and evening dinner cruises featuring local entertainment and cuisine against the illuminated shoreline.
What's typically included in the meal plans during Marmara Region tours?
Tour packages generally cover daily hotel breakfasts featuring Turkish staples: olives cheese eggs and fresh bread. Properties like the Movenpick Hotel & Thermal Spa Bursa often include regional dinner specialties. Most tours build in food experiences such as baklava sampling in the Grand Bazaar and traditional gozleme tastings in Bergama. Evening meals typically remain unscheduled allowing guests to explore local restaurants independently.