Exploring the Wonders of Turkey: From Istanbul to Cappadocia...

İstanbul

The Crossroads of Continents

As your plane descends into Istanbul, visions of ancient empires, swirling dervishes, and tantalizing cuisine fill your mind. Experience the vibrant pulse of the city, catching glimpses of its majestic mosques on your way to the hotel. Welcome to Istanbul, a gateway to Turkey, where the rich tapestry of sights, sounds, flavors, and history will inspire your spirit as you begin this exciting journey.

Upon arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome meeting, where you'll receive essential details about your upcoming adventure. Afterwards, embark on a brief orientation walk to the historic square, where the iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque stand illuminated against the night sky. Conclude your evening with a delightful welcome dinner featuring local delicacies at a nearby restaurant.

Arrival Transfer: Istanbul Atatürk Airport to Hotel

Upon your arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and taken to your hotel to kick off your journey.

Istanbul Evening Orientation Walk: 1 hour

Join your guide for an evening stroll through Istanbul, passing by remarkable landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, beautifully lit in the twilight.

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Guide and Fellow Travelers

This is your chance to connect with your guide and fellow adventurers, as well as learn more about the exciting itinerary ahead. Feel free to join the group for a local meal afterward. Make sure to check the notice in the lobby or ask at reception for the meeting time and location.

Accommodation

Here is an example of the hotel that may be used during your stay. For details regarding your specific departure, please refer to your voucher.

Meals Included: Dinner

İstanbul

 Discovering Iconic Landmarks and Timeless Traditions

Exploring a city on foot is often the most rewarding experience, and Istanbul is no exception. Discover the iconic highlights of the old city to truly appreciate the rich history and intricate blend of cultures that have shaped this vibrant metropolis over the centuries. Savor mouthwatering local street food and indulge in cookies from one of the city’s oldest bakeries before immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar.

Begin your day with a guided walking tour, where you’ll visit the historic Hippodrome, the stunning Blue Mosque, and the fascinating Basilica Cistern. Enjoy delicious döner sandwiches for lunch, then wander through the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, where you can spend the afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Istanbul Walking Tour: 3-4 hours, 5-6 km

Kick off your day with an engaging walking tour through Istanbul's old city. Marvel at the historic Hippodrome and the exquisite Blue Mosque, renowned for its symmetry and intricate tile work. Learn about the rituals of Islam at this active mosque. Afterward, explore the Basilica Cistern and take in the impressive exterior of the Hagia Sophia, a magnificent relic of the Byzantine Empire that was later converted into a mosque. There will be an opportunity for an optional visit to the Hagia Sophia before heading to lunch.

Your Foodie Moment: Street Food Adventure

Stroll through the bustling streets of Istanbul's Old Town, where a variety of street food stalls await. Sample delights such as cheese-stuffed börek, savory lahmacun, crispy simit, or the classic döner.

Grand Bazaar Visit: 1 hour

Wander through the Grand Bazaar, a bustling market where locals shop, and make your way to the scenic Golden Horn. Take a coffee break at Buyuk Valide Han while enjoying stunning views of the Bosporus, then visit the beautiful Rustem Pasha Mosque.

Accommodation

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Kapadokya

Cappadocia - Enchanting Fairy Chimneys and Kaymakli Underground City

Today, you’ll leave Istanbul behind and venture onto the Asian continent, arriving in the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia. This surreal region, known for its unique rock formations, will transport you back in time as you explore the ancient tunnels of the Kaymakli Underground City. Settle into your cave hotel, carved directly from the stunning rock formations.

Start your day with a morning flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia, where you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch featuring pide, a delightful Turkish flatbread dish. Afterward, head to Dervent Valley, stopping at scenic viewpoints and the iconic "Three Beauties" to admire the fairy chimney formations that define this magical landscape.

Next, delve into the depths of history with a visit to the remarkable Kaymakli Underground City, before returning to your hotel in the evening.

Flight: Istanbul Airport to Cappadocia - 1h 15m

Look up! It’s not a bird or a plane; it’s your flight to the stunning region of Cappadocia!

Private Vehicle: Cappadocia to Kaymaklı

Relax in the comfort of a private vehicle as you take in the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Kaymakli Underground City:

Explore the ancient, expansive Kaymakli Underground City, believed to have been constructed between the 8th and 7th centuries BC. This remarkable subterranean complex features nearly a hundred tunnels, storerooms, ventilation shafts, and even a church, all carved from the rock.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Kapadokya

Cappadocia: Your Unforgettable Experience

Dive into the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, where you can explore either on foot or by e-bike. Get up close to the iconic fairy chimneys and envision how natural forces have sculpted this unique terrain and influenced human settlements throughout history. Discover rock-cut churches and hilltop structures offering breathtaking views of the stunning surroundings. To deepen your cultural understanding, enjoy dinner and tea with a local family for a truly memorable exchange.

Choose Your Adventure: Meskender Valley Hike or E-Bike Tour

Option 1: Meskender Valley Hike

Begin your journey with a hike downhill through the fairy chimneys. Explore caves and visit traditional cave houses, capturing countless photo opportunities amidst the captivating landscape.

Option 2: E-Bike Tour

Join your cycling guide for an exhilarating ride through the valley on e-bikes. Glide past fairy chimneys and magical rock formations, stopping to explore cave houses along the way. Don’t forget your camera for those perfect snapshots!

Göreme Open Air Museum Visit

Discover the fascinating Göreme Open Air Museum, home to a collection of medieval painted cave churches. Carved by Orthodox monks, these churches date back nearly 1,000 years and still boast remarkable color and vibrancy.

Uchisar Castle

Ascend the stairs, both man-made and natural, to the summit of Uchisar Castle, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Cappadocian landscape.

Your Local Living Moment: Dinner in Zelve Village

Experience the warmth of local hospitality as you dine with a family in Zelve. They will prepare a traditional meal using pottery, and afterwards, you can enjoy tea and engage in delightful conversations with your hosts.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Dinner

Şirince

Şirince: Flavours of Turkey

Discover more of Turkish cuisine today as you visit a local food and vegetable market then take part in a cooking class to learn how to make gözleme, a delicious savoury stuffed turnover, cooked on an iron griddle over the fire. You'll see the landscapes change again as you fly towards Turkey's Aegean coastline and discover the ancient village of Şirince, an agricultural settlement that dates back to ancient and medieval times.

Drive to the town of Ugrup for time to shop and explore before continuing to a local food and vegetable market in Avanos. Next, take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare typical Turkish gözleme. Afterwards, catch a flight west from Kayseri to Izmir and transfer to the Village of Şirince to take part in a short orientation walk before enjoying the rest of the evening at leisure.

Please note that due to varying airline schedules of the flight to Izmir, it is possible that the order of activities be changed as well as the exact locations of each on this day.

Avanos Market VisitAvanos

Visit the Avanos Fruit & Vegetable Market to prepare for the Gozleme cooking class.

Your Foodie Moment: Gozleme Cooking Class

Drive to Zelve for a Gozleme cooking class with different ingredients. We will learn how to prepare the dough while using the rolling pins. Choose what ingredients you want, like cheese, mince meat, potato and spinach. Fill your dough and cook it on a traditional iron plate on the fire.

PlaneCappadocia – İzmir Adnan Menderes International Airport1h15m

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Accommodation

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

Şirince

Şirince: Journey to Ancient Ephesus

Step back in time as you wander through the expansive ruins of Ephesus, making your way to its northern gate. Marvel at the remains of the Temple of Artemis, where expert excavation helps you envision its former grandeur. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary and take a stroll around the nearby Greek Orthodox Church, enjoying a refreshing drink from the natural spring water.

Begin your day with a drive to Ephesus, where you’ll embark on a guided tour of the site, including a stop at St. John's Basilica. Afterward, savor some free time for lunch in Selçuk before continuing your visit to the House of the Virgin Mary and the Greek Orthodox church. Conclude your day with a delightful three-course farewell dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in Şirince for the night.

Ephesus Visit: Selçuk (2-3 hours)

Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and imagine life during Roman times. Marvel at the impressive, well-preserved theater that dominates the view down Harbour Street, and visit the iconic Library of Celsus, reconstructed from original materials. Built in AD 125, this two-story library once housed nearly 12,000 scrolls.

Free Time in Selçuk:

In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time to explore Selçuk or the charming village of Şirince at your own pace.

Temple of Artemis Visit: Selçuk

Witness the remnants of the Temple of Artemis, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

St. John's Basilica & Ayasuluk Castle Visit: Selçuk

Tour the historic basilica and explore the nearby castle for stunning views of the area.

House of the Virgin Mary: Üçhisar

Drive to the House of the Virgin Mary for a short walk around the Greek Orthodox Church. Take a moment to drink from the natural spring water and visit inside the church.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Dinner

Şirince

Şirince - Village Walk to the Coast

Put on your walking shoes today as you embark on an ancient trail that connects picturesque villages, winding through olive orchards and past historic sites with breathtaking views of the ocean. Your journey will take you through the neighborhood of Notion, once home to the Greek mathematician Pythagoras, before you spend the afternoon exploring the nearby town of Selçuk.

Start your day with a drive to the town of Çile, where your walk to the coastal village of Ahmetbeyli begins. Along the way, you’ll visit the ancient site of Claros, a significant Greek sanctuary and oracle dating back to the 4th century BC. Continue your trek toward Ahmetbeyli, soaking in the sights at your own pace before arriving in Selçuk for some free time to enjoy lunch or explore independently. In the evening, gather with new group members at the hotel who will be joining you for the next leg of your adventure.

Ahmetbeyli Village Walk: Çile to Ahmetbeyli (1h 30m, 6-7 km)

After arriving in Çile, begin your scenic walk to Ahmetbeyli Village. During your hike, you’ll explore the ancient ruins of Claros and pass through Notion, an important coastal city known for its harbor and the historical figures who once lived there, including Pythagoras. Take your time to appreciate these remarkable sites away from the crowds.

Free Time in Selçuk:

In the afternoon, feel free to explore Selçuk or the charming village of Şirince at your leisure.

Accommodation:

Meals Included: Breakfast | Dinner

Bodrum

Bodrum: Exploring Ancient Sites and Turkish Countryside

Immerse yourself in Turkey's rich history as you explore ancient temples and ruins that date back thousands of years. The grandeur of the massive columns and the scale of these historic complexes will transport you to their glorious past. Enjoy a relaxing tea at a local tea house and savor a picnic lunch before heading south to the picturesque Bodrum Peninsula, which juts into the Aegean Sea.

Begin your journey with a drive from Şirince to the ancient sites of Priene and Miletus. At Priene, marvel at the well-preserved remains that showcase early Greek urban planning, complete with a grid layout, the Temple of Athena, a theater, gymnasium, stadium, and various houses. After a light lunch featuring typical local fare, stop at a charming tea house before visiting the impressive temple complex of Didyma en route to Bodrum. Spend your evening at leisure, choosing from a variety of excellent restaurants or joining your guide at their local favorite spot.

Private Vehicle: Şirince to Bodrum

Relax and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle.

Priene Visit:

Explore the ancient site of Priene, which dates back to the 6th century BC. Its remarkable ruins are a prime example of early Greek urban design, featuring a well-organized grid with evenly spaced streets and structures, including the Temple of Athena and a theater.

Miletus Visit: Aydın

Discover Miletus, located near the mouth of the Maeander River. This ancient city, with roots dating back to 3500 BC, was once a key trading hub. You'll explore the site and its impressive Roman-era theater.

Your Foodie Moment: Turkish Bagels Picnic Lunch

Continue your journey to Akköy for a delightful picnic featuring traditional Turkish bagels served with cheese, olives, and a refreshing cup of tea.

Apollo Temple of Didyma Visit: Aydın

Visit the renowned Apollo Temple at the ancient sanctuary of Didyma. Originally destroyed by the Persians in 494 BC, it was later restored by Alexander the Great in the 3rd century BC and thrived for centuries afterward.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Bodrum

Castle and Coastline Adventure

Perched strategically by the water, Bodrum has served as a vital marine and shipping hub for centuries. Today, you'll immerse yourself in this rich history as you explore the iconic castle and other significant historical sites. Venture to the end of the Bodrum Peninsula for a delightful lunch featuring local specialties, all while enjoying stunning views of the sea and coastline.

Start your day with a visit to Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which showcases fascinating exhibits from shipwrecks found in the region. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline.

Next, discover the ancient city of Halikarnassus, where you’ll see the foundations of the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. From this site, the term "mausoleum" originates. Afterward, walk to the nearby theater, still in use today for concerts and festivals.

Continue your journey to Gumusluk, where you can enjoy a scenic lunch overlooking the bay. Conclude your day with a visit to the iconic Bodrum windmills, perched atop a hill, offering sweeping views of the area.

Free Time in Bodrum:

After your explorations, enjoy the rest of the day and evening at your leisure, allowing you to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Bodrum.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Dalyan

Dalyan - A Journey Along the Dalyan River

Today, trade the bus for a boat as you glide down the picturesque Dalyan River. Experience the therapeutic warmth of the natural mud baths, allowing the rejuvenating minerals to work their magic on your skin before rinsing off in the cool waters of the river or nearby lake. Continue your adventure as you navigate further downstream to the ancient site of Kaunos, and enjoy a scenic cruise right up to your hotel for a peaceful evening by the pool, overlooking the stunning rock tombs.

Begin your day with a drive from Bodrum to Dalyan, where you’ll embark on a memorable boat trip. Indulge in the famed mud baths and then journey upriver to explore the Acropolis of Kaunos, marveling at the nearby rock tombs. Afterward, relax and enjoy lunch by the river at Dalyan Beach, where you can swim and unwind before arriving at your hotel by boat.

Private Vehicle: Bodrum to Dalyan (3h 30m, 190 km)

Settle in and take in the scenic views during your drive.

Dalyan Boat Trip: Dalyan (5-6 hours)

Join this boat excursion for a close-up view of the remarkable Carian rock tombs and the ruins of Kaunos. Cruise towards Iztuzu Beach, passing the dramatic rock faces adorned with ancient tombs. Conclude your tour with some relaxation at the beach, enjoying a refreshing drink by the water.

Your Wellness Moment: Mud Baths

Legend has it that Cleopatra herself indulged in the mud baths of Dalyan for their beautifying properties. Experience the healing effects of these natural mud baths for yourself.

Acropolis of Kaunos: Dalyan

On the western bank of the ancient Kalbis River, discover the remnants of Kaunos, including its fortified Byzantine walls and archaeological treasures dating back to the 4th century BC.

Dalyan Beach:

Spend time soaking up the sun on Dalyan Beach, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Göcek

Göcek - Hike to Ancient Rock Tombs

Today, the scenic Turkish countryside unfolds as you make your way south to a quaint village, the starting point for your hike. Set out on foot towards the remote ancient city of Pinara, where you’ll discover the remains of its theater, basilica, and the striking Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs. After your hike, enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by a local family, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the people in this region.

Begin your journey with a drive from Dalyan to Minare Village, where your hike to the historical site of Pinara will commence. Once back in Minare, indulge in a homemade lunch before heading to Göcek to check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening.

Your Local Living Moment: Minare Village Experience

You’ll be welcomed into a local family's home for lunch, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture. This experience not only features traditional dishes but also allows for engaging conversations, where you can learn about local customs and daily life.

Private Vehicle: Dalyan to Minare

Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery during your drive.

Hike to the Lycian Ruins of Pinara: Minare (1-2 hours, 2-3 km)

Trek along the famed Lycian Way towards the ancient ruins of Pinara. Once a thriving Lycian city, the site now showcases remnants like a theater, temple, baths, and tombs embedded in the hillside. Enjoy a leisurely walk that presents no major physical challenges, making the visit all the more rewarding.

Free Time in Göcek:

During your free time, feel free to stroll along the beach or take a refreshing dip in the pool.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Göcek

Göcek 

Today, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Lycian Way, choosing to explore either by sea kayak or on foot. Experience the breathtaking coastline with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and lush forests on the other, or paddle through the stunning rocky coves around Saint Nicholas Island. Regroup in the charming seaside village of Ölüdeniz, known as the official starting point of the Lycian Way and home to one of Turkey's most beautiful beaches.

Choose Your Adventure:

Option 1: Sea Kayaking

Join your kayaking guide for a briefing before setting off to paddle through the crystal-clear waters of Aquarium Cove and around Saint Nicholas Island (Gemiler Island), where remnants of a small Greek Orthodox chapel can still be seen. After about two hours of kayaking, drive to Ölüdeniz to meet up with your group.

Option 2: Hiking the Lycian Way

Begin your hike at Kayaköy, a village that was abandoned after World War I due to the population exchange with Greece. Ascend to the top of the village for stunning panoramic views, then follow a scenic trail down to the Mediterranean coves at Oludeniz, where the forest meets the sea. Total hiking time is approximately 2 hours (5 km).

Ölüdeniz Lagoon Swim:

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters of the Ölüdeniz lagoon, surrounded by a breathtaking beach setting (approximately 2 hours).

Free Time in Göcek:

After your adventures, you’ll have some leisure time to explore the area. Feel free to stroll along the beach or relax by the pool.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch

Göcek

 Göcek - The Turquoise Coast

Experience the stunning beauty of the rocky coastline and vibrant blue waters of Göcek from the comfort of a boat. Today’s adventure will take you through the enchanting bays, where you can swim, snorkel, and hike to a unique beach where a natural hot spring meets the sea—perfect for winding down after your journey along the Lycian Way.

Full-Day Boat Tour:

Embark on an exciting boat trip exploring the picturesque bays of Göcek. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters while relishing a barbecue lunch prepared onboard.

Hike to Cleopatra's Baths:

After about an hour and a half of cruising, disembark at Sarsala Beach and take a short hike to Cleopatra's Baths. Here, relax in the rejuvenating natural hot spring waters, renowned for their soothing properties that make the sea pleasantly warm.

Continued Exploration:

After your hike, savor a delicious barbecue lunch on the boat before continuing your journey through more beautiful bays, soaking up the sun and splashing in the refreshing sea.

Farewell Dinner:

Conclude your adventure with a memorable farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the incredible experiences shared with your travel companions.

Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner 

Göcek

 Göcek - Departure Day

As your incredible journey comes to a close, enjoy a leisurely morning in Göcek before your departure. Take in the last moments of this beautiful coastal paradise.

Airport Transfer:

Your adventure includes a convenient transfer to Dalaman Airport, ensuring a smooth transition as you head home.

Departure Options:

If you’re not quite ready to leave, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can assist you with arrangements for extending your stay or exploring more of this captivating region.

Meals Included: Breakfast