I just returned April 4, 2026 from Rick Steves' fabulous 13-day Turkey tour. Please know that everything went seamlessly and that no one scheduled to visit Turkey should hesitate. All flights were on time and the tour was in no way impacted by issues occurring in Iran to the East. We experienced zero anti- American sentiment anywhere in the country and at no time felt unsafe. The native Turks were nothing short of warm, kind, friendly, and helpful. My friend and I arrived 5 days prior to our tour in Istanbul. Whenever we became lost using public transport or trying to find a destination... there was always someone willing to help with directions or show us how to load
a train or tram card, etc. Our Rick Steves tour guide was Yaren. She was phenomenal... to say the least. Her knowledge of the country's history, art, architecture, culture, archaeological sites, etc. is incredible. Her love for... and pride in her country... shines through. She made the trip a standout experience for me. I marveled at her ability to keep all members of our tour group happy, on time, and in possession of all their personal items.
This was my first Rick Steves tour and will definitely not be my last.
Posted by
Huntington Beach CA
1231 posts
We’re booked for this tour in October. Looking forward to it so much and we have our fingers crossed that we’ll be able to go. The only thing impacting me so far is my flight home is through Doha on Qatar Air. Got a great deal on a business class seat using my points. It will be the grand finale of this trip so fingers crossed that the airspace won’t be impacted then.
Posted by
3 posts
Thank you for your report! We'reeaving soon on the same tour and have been curious what the reception to us would be. We have been on several RS guided Tours. They are the best thanks to their wonderful guides!
Posted by
Lexington, KY (formerly Southeast US)
4653 posts
A very nice, succinct trip report that is very helpful to those traveling to Turkey in current times. I was in Turkey two years ago. Beautiful place with very friendly people.
Posted by
Kansas
12 posts
We did that tour with Yaren a few years ago…she’s so knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor! We learned so much from Yaren!! Loved her humor and personality.
Posted by
1 posts
My wife and I took this tour in October, 2025 and it just amazing. The visited sites were incredible, the Turkish people were very friendly and welcoming. Yaren was also our guide and we often wonder if our experience in Turkey would not have been as educational and enjoyable had she not been our guide. She was helpful in every way and her deep knowledge of all facets of her country (Turkiye) was just superb. This was our 5th Rick Steves tour and certainly one of the best.
Bill B