- Istanbul
- Cappadocia
- Izmir
- Bodrum
From its bustling cities to its incredible ancient history, this is Turkey at its best
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Wandering the vibrant and colourful bazaars of Istanbul
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Taking a cruise along the waters of the mighty Bosphorus
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Floating above the landscapes of Cappadocia on a hot air balloon ride
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Stepping back in time during a visit to the ruins of Ephesus
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Sunning yourself on a traditional sailing experience around Bodrum's peninsula
What's included
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private transfers
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Private tours and experiences focused around Turkey's history, culture and nature
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Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
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Our help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
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Expert guides in each destination
At a glance
Providing the perfect introduction to the depth and diversity of Turkey’s character, this rewarding tour will allow you to experience everything from the country’s history and culture, to its food and natural landscapes. Exploring numerous highlights found predominantly in Turkey’s west, this 11-day tour will introduce you to the mesmerising city of Istanbul, the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient history of Ephesus and the coastal playground that is Bodrum and its peninsula.
Beginning in Turkey’s most populous city and cultural hub, Istanbul, the trip will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the magnificent Blue Mosque and grand Topkapi Palace, while a different perspective of the city can be enjoyed from the Bosphorus during a scenic motor yacht cruise. Wandering the city’s bustling bazaars is surely to be a highlight of your time in the city, topped off with numerous tasty and authentic journeys into Turkey’s mouth-watering cuisine.
A journey to Cappadocia comes next, an area famous for its unique landscapes, which consist of numerous cave houses and churches, as well as distinctive rock formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’. Your best vantage point for soaking up these natural marvels will be from the air, as you ascend above the landscape during an unforgettable hot air balloon ride early in the morning, all while the area wakes up for the day.
Following Cappadocia, this adventurous tour heads to the city of Izmir, the perfect base for discovering the nearby ancient history of Ephesus. Known throughout the ancient world for being the site of the Temple of Artemis, you’ll enjoy a full day exploring this incredible site, including its fantastic museum. Your last stop will be Bodrum, an area of beautiful coastal scenery and plenty of history. In addition to relaxing on the beach or at your hotel, you’ll have the chance to discover Bodrum’s iconic castle, as well as take to the water on a memorable and traditional sailing experience in a gulet.
Example trip itinerary
Istanbul
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Istanbul
Accommodation in Istanbul
- 65 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Summer pop-up eateries
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- Fitness centre
Set within the walls of a restored Ottoman palace dating from the 19th century, enjoying a remarkable and scenic location alongside the banks of the mighty Bosphorus, the Four Seasons Bosphorus offers an experience of authenticity and luxury at the meeting point of Europe and Asia. Combining the likes of Turkish architecture and contemporary décor with warm hospitality and superb facilities, all the while providing front row seats to Istanbul’s famous waterfront skyline, the hotel manages to unite a desirable theme of relaxation and adventure.
Offering a choice of 65 rooms and suites, the guest rooms are divided between two annexes and the striking Palace Building. In the latter, guests will enjoy the true Ottoman style, as well as some superb views across the Bosphorus from unique floor-to-ceiling windows, while some suites come with a private rooftop terrace. Across all rooms, guests will enjoy a spacious and airy interior, with pleasant décor and touches of both authenticity and modernity.
Dining is quite the experience at the Four Seasons Bosphorus, beginning with an immense breakfast buffet in a space that transforms into the sophisticated Aqua Restaurant, serving up Mediterranean cuisine that highlights the region’s freshest ingredients. The neighbouring bar is a great place to settle down for a nightcap, while summer pop-up eateries provide a diverse array of further culinary experiences. For relaxation, the outdoor swimming pool invites guests for a refreshing soak beside the Bosphorus, and the on-site spa is the place to go for traditional wellness treatments.
- 65 rooms
- Restaurant
- Lobby lounge
- Rooftop lounge
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Gardens
Enjoying a privileged location at the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, boasting mesmerising views of the nearby Blue Mosque, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet is steps away from some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Despite its central location in Istanbul’s old city, the hotel provides a tranquil sanctuary within the walls of a century-old neoclassical home, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing stay in Turkey’s largest city.
Bright and summery décor is featured in each of the hotel’s 65 rooms, with classical touches and artistic pieces found within them and throughout the rest of the hotel’s interior. Each room offers a pleasant view, ranging from the courtyard and greenery through to the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. Outside the rooms, you’ll experience beautiful surroundings featuring the likes of marble pillars, pinched arches, extravagant tiles and dramatic domes, as the hotel presents a striking example of Turkish neoclassical architecture.
If you think the views from your room are impressive, don’t hesitate to head up to the hotel’s rooftop lounge and the A’ya Terrace for some Turkish wine and unprecedented vistas of the neighbouring Hagia Sophia. Dining can be enjoyed in the shape of the Seasons Restaurant, serving up delicious Mediterranean cuisine, while an extra dose of indulgence can be found through the hotel’s rewarding spa, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments.

Your professional guide will take you out for a full day of private sightseeing. Among the sights, you can visit St. Sophia, also known as the church of the Divine Wisdom. The church was built during Emperor Justinian’s reign (AD 537) and it remained the greatest church in Christendom until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Sultan Mehmet II who ordered the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a Mosque. In 1934, Atatürk proclaimed it a museum.
You can also visit Topkapı Palace, the residence of the sultans for almost three centuries. It is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. This setting provides a magnificent view. The construction of the Topkapı Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Being the imperial residence of the sultan, the palace was also the seat of government for the Ottoman Empire.
Also on the tour is the Basilica Cistern, which was constructed in 532 AD and built by Justinian to hold the water supply for the Great Palace. The Cistern is 70 metres wide and 140 metres long, with a capacity of 80,000m3 of water. Here you will find an atmospheric forest of 336 beautiful columns. Don’t miss the two columns featuring the head of Medusa on their bases.
You will have the opportunity to visit the Blue Mosque. Completed in 1616, it is a triumph of harmony, proportion and elegance. The mosque was a part of a complex also including tombs, fountains, kitchens, and a bath. Its 260 colourful windows enable the sunlight to reach inside. This makes the interior unusually light. The blue Iznik Tiles covering the walls have given the mosque its popular name, Blue Mosque.
You can also visit the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. Istanbul's Byzantine Hippodrome was the heart of Constantinople's political and sporting life, as well as the scene of games and riots through 500 years of Ottoman history. This was the largest hippodrome of the ancient world with a design that was conceptually based on the Circus Maximus in Rome, and you can see the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpentine Column, Constantine Column which remain from the original Hippodrome.
Visit the Grand Bazaar, where you will have an opportunity to learn about the art of carpet weaving. One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar dates from the 15th century. The world famous handmade carpets and kilims of Turkey, some of the most beautiful examples of Turkish silver art, souvenirs and decorations made of copper and bronze and high quality ceramics, onyx, and leather goods are for sale here.

You'll embark your yacht from the Four Seasons Bosphorus pier to enjoy a private motor yacht cruise on the Bosphorus, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul. Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite. Enjoy soft drinks on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12th century as 'the city of the world’s desire'.

During this tour, you will first visit the Grand Bazaar, but not before having the opportunity to learn about the art of carpet weaving. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish handicrafts, oriental carpets, rare jewels, textiles, cotton towels, Iznik tiles and inexpensive souvenirs can be found, all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc. The most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar.
Next, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection. Following this, you will visit the Church of St Saviour in Chora. Built in the 11th century, the walls are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes. The mosaics depict the life of Virgin Mary and the infancy, genealogy and ministry of Christ.
You'll also visit the Spice Bazaar, the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs.
Transfer
Private transfer to Istanbul Airport
Transfer
Flight to Kayseri
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Cappadocia
Cappadocia
Accommodation in Cappadocia
- 51 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Lounge
- Wine cellar
Take a step back in time with a stay at this extraordinary boutique hotel, housed within a series of ancient stone caves. Originally serving as a cave monastery, this now luxurious space, perched on the edge of the Uçhisar settlement, is perfect for taking in the iconic hot air balloon scenes at sunrise.
Set across seven restored mansions, 51 rooms and suites feature different designs, and guests can choose between the more authentic cave rooms, or the contemporary rooms with traditional touches. Some suites include private cave pools, open fireplaces and balconies, overlooking the striking landscape. Expansive bathrooms carved out of natural stone, encompass walk-in showers and gaping baths.
Dining is experienced on an outdoor terrace, jutting out over Pigeon Valley, and a menu of Turkish delicacies with Mediterranean flavors is on offer. A buffet breakfast is served every morning, and guests can unwind with snacks and drinks in the snug lounge by the fire. It’s also possible to sample the region’s finest wines in the vast wine cellar, dating back thousands of years and storing more than 22,000 bottles.
- 30 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- Garden
- Art gallery
Positioned amid the striking and breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, housed within a combination of the land, historical features and ruins that comprise this setting, the Museum Hotel is one of Europe’s most incredible boutique hotels. Immersing its guests in the general wonders of this area, this hotel has an undeniable magical atmosphere, which is evident when waking up to dozens of hot-air balloons taking to the sky, relaxing in your exclusive cave bedroom or enjoying the sunset across the dramatic terrain.
Billed as something of a ‘living museum’, the site is steeped in thousands of years of history, with each of the 30 cave rooms and suites, as well as the specially restored traditional rooms, all decorated with priceless antiques and authentic touches. In fact, other than enjoying wonderful views of Cappadocia, no two rooms are alike, with each bringing its own unique feel, contributing to the hotel’s overall charm and character.
There’s nothing like soaking up the unrivalled panoramic views of the region, best enjoyed from the on-site restaurant or inviting terrace, the former providing a flavour of Turkish cuisine with some of the region’s finest recipes. For further indulgence, guests will be tempted by a dip in the Roman-themed infinity pool, while the hotel’s spa provides a range of rejuvenating treatments.

First, you will visit Devrent Valley. One magical corner in the countless panoramic valleys of Cappadocia, here is an unbelievable landscape with its rock formations and savage feeling; one of the best introductions to understanding the formation of fairy chimneys.
Next, you will stop in the Pasabag Valley where the formation of the 'fairy chimney' can be best observed. Pasabag, the Pasha's Vineyard, is surrounded by incredible natural rock formations; a spectacular scene.
Last, you will visit Zelve, where three canyons meet in the Valley of Monks. The rock face at Zelve is honeycombed with caves and churches, and much of the decoration inside the churches is symbolic. You will visit the two most interesting churches; The Church of Grapes and the Fish Church.

After an early morning pick up, you will take to the skies above Cappadocia to enjoy a thrilling and breathtaking ballooning experience. As you float over Cappadocia's unique landscapes, heading along its scenic valleys, you'll gain a greater appreciation of the sheer beauty of this area of Turkey. After your ride, you will head back to your hotel for a delicious breakfast.

You’ll meet your professional guide for your private day of sightseeing. You’ll start your day descending below the Earth’s surface into the Kaymakli underground city, where five levels extend below the ground and include living quarters, kitchens, wine presses, storage rooms, stables and ventilation shafts. Early Christians carved out these subterranean complexes to avoid invaders who swept across the plains of Anatolia from the 6th to the 9th century.
Next, you’ll visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where icons and other figurative representations were prohibited. The 11th century represents the 'Golden Age' of religious art in Göreme. Then, you’ll visit the Göreme Valley, which has been occupied since the dawn of history and is known as the 'Valley of the Churches'.
Transfer
Private transfer to Kayseri Airport
Transfer
Flight to Istanbul
Transfer
Flight to Izmir
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Izmir
Izmir
Accommodation in Izmir
- 31 rooms
- Restaurant
- Bar
Set on the water’s edge at the heart of the city, just a short stroll from Izmir’s famous clock tower and surrounded by a range of great eateries, bars and shops, Key Hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the city and the highlights of the surrounding area.
31 rooms are housed in this historic building, all elegantly appointed with state-of-the-art technology, plenty of space and some great views. For dining pleasure, the KEY Restaurant serves up international cuisine with an Aegean flair, all enjoyed in a contemporary setting. The sunsets over the Gulf of Izmir will add to your dining pleasure, best washed down with some local wine. Adjacent to the restaurant is the Lobby Bar, where you can enjoy a range of cocktails and a night cap or two.

Discover this stunning ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during a fascinating tour that will allow you to delve into the history and identity of this site. You will first visit the Odeon Theatre, where the state affairs used to be held, before viewing the Hadrian Temple which was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis and the people of Ephesus. Next you will visit the newly excavated Terrace Houses located on top of the hill within the City of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians and are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
After this, you will proceed to the Library of Celsus, the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was built by Julius between 114–117 AD, in his father’s honour, after his death. Following this, you'll visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed, expanded by the Romans until it reached a seating capacity of 25,000.
After a delicious and traditional lunch, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived in the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna, based on the vision of a German nun. Finally, you will visit the Ephesus Museum to discover the many artefacts displayed here, which were found in Ephesus and other ancient sites in the region.
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Bodrum
Bodrum
Accommodation in Bodrum
- 95 rooms and suites
- Outdoor pool
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Lobby lounge
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Sports courts
- Garden
Ringed by an idyllic Mediterranean garden, and perched on a peak, this hotel is designed to seamlessly frame the turquoise waters, speckled with yachts, from every angle. Sweeping terraces allow guests to soak in views of the Aegean Sea stretching out into the horizon, Bodrum Bay and the city below.
Rooms and suites feature soft tones, with a focus on white and cream materials, enhanced by dark woods and carved doors. The highlight of each airy space is the private balcony, facing the sea or surrounding grounds, while some suites encompass hot tubs and separated sitting areas.
Throughout the rest of the hotel, guests can relish in a relaxed atmosphere and are encouraged to take advantage of the exceptional facilities, such as the free-form outdoor pool, encircled by lounges and lined with umbrellas. The incredibly tranquil spa, another notable amenity, offers a sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi and a variety of therapeutic treatments. An on-site gym allows more energetic guests to keep active, along with tennis, basketball and squash courts.
Winding down can take place in the lounge bar, serving up light snacks and refreshments, as well as the pool-side bar, with an alluring menu of cocktails. Tuti Restaurant is all about Mediterranean dishes just as delightful as the panorama, and you really can’t beat a dinner on its the terrace under a starry sky.
- 108 guestrooms, lofts and villas
- Infinity pool
- Gym
- Spa
- Three restaurants
- Bar
- Club
Blessed with a perfect position on the banks of the Turquoise Coast, this stylish boutique hotel of various levels appears to almost spill out onto a private beach, providing its guests with direct access to the sea. The sprawling levels feature all-encompassing terraces, manicured lawns and turquoise pools, shaded by over-arching olive trees, or trellises, dappled with bougainvillea and foliage.
The focal point of the hotel, a grand structure of marble and glass, looks out over the grounds, boasting supreme vistas of the white stretch of sand below. Branching out from this building, the guestrooms, lofts and villas, linked by paths, draw on soft tones and light woods, as well as marble bathrooms, with gaping tubs, to create tranquil interiors. Most of the accommodation has views of the Aegean Sea, and upgraded suites encompass kitchens and patios, with plunge pools.
Room service is available 24-hour, but it would be a shame not to experience the mix of dining possibilities. The hotel’s signature restaurant, BRAVA, is a Latin American haven, with al fresco seating, while Morena is Mediterranean focused, using local flavours for inspiration. If you’re up for a taste of Turkish brunch, the Kitchen at the Bodrum EDITION is all about mezze-style platter indulgence, before you head to the Beach Club for a cocktail or the Discetto, to party with the late-night DJs.
Recovery after the revelry can be experienced at the on-site spa of candle-lit cream treatment rooms. Guests have access to a steam room, plunge pool, therapy baths, and a selection of therapeutic and beauty treatments. Alternatively, you can sweat it out in the gym, or seek refreshment in the infinity pool, enfolded by cabanas, or take to the salty waters for a paddle.
- 137 rooms, suites, apartments and villas
- Nine restaurants & bars
- Indoor & outdoor pool
- Spa
- Sports courts
- Private beach
- Fitness centre
Enjoying a remarkable location alongside the glistening waters of the Aegean Sea on the Bodrum Peninsula, all while offering the utmost in luxury and diverse facilities, Mandarin Oriental Bodrum promises one of Turkey’s most mesmerising and rewarding stays. Comprising 20 or so olive-coloured geometric blocks, the hotel is spread across almost 150 acres, set in tiers down a wooded hillside towards inviting strips of sandy beach and the clear blue of the sea. Stylish interiors with Asian character will greet each guest, with the hotel dotted with teak and muted marble, while also interspersed with modern artwork.
There are 59 large guest rooms, 29 luxurious suites, 36 lifestyle apartments and 13 villas to consider at Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, offering the perfect blend of luxury and comfort in the most welcoming of large spaces. Nearly all of them benefit from a breathtaking sea view, with some enjoying verdant garden views, while sleek and simple decor is met by modern amenities and facilities to ensure an effortlessly relaxed stay. Other features such as outdoor terraces, plunge pools and fully equipped kitchens can be enjoyed for those hoping for even more impressive living quarters.
The dining scene at the hotel is just as diverse and inviting as its collection of rooms and suites, ready to reward each and every preference with a range of cuisines and flavours. For delicious Italian cuisine, head to the decking over the sea at Assaggio, while Bodrum Balikçisi is the place to go for fresh seafood and Sofra for traditional Turkish fare. Cocktails and pre-dinner drinks are best enjoyed at Blue Beach Club & Bar and at Mandarin Bar – there’s truly a place for every occasion. When it comes to relaxation and activities, many will be drawn to the three-storied spa, with its large treatment rooms and incredible array of facilities, while a range of water sports opportunities and the obvious lure of the beach will afford you a hefty dose of the sun, sand and sea.

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the hotel and enjoy the facilities, as well as the beautiful nearby beaches and the landscapes dotted with history.

Your professional guide will take you out for a private sightseeing tour. First, you will visit the Bodrum Castle which occupies the tip of the wedge-like peninsula at the centre of Bodrum. It is a splendid incarnation of medieval western military architecture, built at a time when the European Middle Ages were over, and castles of this type were fast becoming objects of nostalgia. It has a massive conglomeration of courtyards, turrets, galleries and sunken gardens.
During your time exploring the castle, you will also have the opportunity to visit the on-site Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Considered the most established of its kind in the world, here you can discover numerous treasures from historic shipwrecks discovered along Turkey's southern shores. Also on display in the castle, and another subject of your tour, is a full reconstruction of one third of an Eastern Roman wreck, which dates from the 7th century. You'll find this wreck in the castle's Gothic Chapel.

You will enjoy a private adventurous sailing experience in a gulet, a typical wooden sailing boat from the region. You will enjoy crystal-clear water and swimming in the secret coves. You will have plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and relaxing. A gourmet lunch will be served onboard your gulet. At the end of your voyage you will have some time to stroll around Bodrum town.

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the hotel and enjoy the facilities, as well as the beautiful nearby beaches and the landscapes dotted with history.
Transfer
Private transfer to Bodrum Airport
Transfer
Flight to Istanbul
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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The Highlights of Turkey
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Providing the perfect introduction to the depth and diversity of Turkey’s character, this rewarding tour will allow you to experience everything from the country’s history and culture, to its food and natural landscapes. Exploring numerous highlights found predominantly in Turkey’s west, this 11-day tour will introduce you to the mesmerising city of Istanbul, the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient history of Ephesus and the coastal playground that is Bodrum and its peninsula. Beginning in Turkey’s most populous city and cultural hub, Istanbul, the trip will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the magnificent Blue Mosque and grand Topkapi Palace, while a different perspective of the city can be enjoyed from the Bosphorus during a scenic motor yacht cruise. Wandering the city’s bustling bazaars is surely to be a highlight of your time in the city, topped off with numerous tasty and authentic journeys into Turkey’s mouth-watering cuisine. A journey to Cappadocia comes next, an area famous for its unique landscapes, which consist of numerous cave houses and churches, as well as distinctive rock formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’. Your best vantage point for soaking up these natural marvels will be from the air, as you ascend above the landscape during an unforgettable hot air balloon ride early in the morning, all while the area wakes up for the day. Following Cappadocia, this adventurous tour heads to the city of Izmir, the perfect base for discovering the nearby ancient history of Ephesus. Known throughout the ancient world for being the site of the Temple of Artemis, you’ll enjoy a full day exploring this incredible site, including its fantastic museum. Your last stop will be Bodrum, an area of beautiful coastal scenery and plenty of history. In addition to relaxing on the beach or at your hotel, you’ll have the chance to discover Bodrum’s iconic castle, as well as take to the water on a memorable and traditional sailing experience in a gulet. | Whats included?
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Days 1-4 |
Istanbul |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Istanbul |
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Accommodation in Istanbul
•
Four Seasons Bosphorus - $$$$$
Set within the walls of a restored Ottoman palace dating from the 19th century, enjoying a...
•
Four Seasons Sultanahmet - $$$$$
Enjoying a privileged location at the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district,...
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Highlights of Istanbul city Your professional guide will take you out for a full day of private sightseeing. Among the sights, you can visit St. Sophia, also known as the church of the Divine Wisdom. The church was built during Emperor Justinian’s reign (AD 537) and it remained the greatest church in Christendom until the conquest of Constantinople in 1453 by Sultan Mehmet II who ordered the conversion of Hagia Sophia into a Mosque. In 1934, Atatürk proclaimed it a museum. |
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Private motor yacht cruise on the Bosphorus You'll embark your yacht from the Four Seasons Bosphorus pier to enjoy a private motor yacht cruise on the Bosphorus, the narrow strait of water separating the Asian and European continents and the lifeblood of Istanbul. Passing along the shores of the Bosphorus you will view magnificent palaces, restored Ottoman villas, impressive fortresses and the waterside residences of Istanbul’s elite. Enjoy soft drinks on the motor yacht and see a different perspective of Istanbul, described by a Byzantine visitor in the 12th century as 'the city of the world’s desire'. |
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Churches, mosques and bazaars city tour During this tour, you will first visit the Grand Bazaar, but not before having the opportunity to learn about the art of carpet weaving. The Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest covered Bazaar in Turkey with more than 4,000 shops. A variety of Turkish handicrafts, oriental carpets, rare jewels, textiles, cotton towels, Iznik tiles and inexpensive souvenirs can be found, all sold in small shops next to each other. The streets are named according to the trades, such as gold and silver sellers, carpet sellers, booksellers, etc. The most oriental atmosphere in Istanbul is found in the bazaar. Next, you will visit the Suleymaniye Mosque. Built by the great Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan on the order of Sultan Suleiman I (Suleiman the Magnificent), the Suleymaniye Mosque dominates the third hill of old Istanbul, and is strikingly graceful and less ornate than many other imperial mosques, thus lending itself to meditation and quiet reflection. Following this, you will visit the Church of St Saviour in Chora. Built in the 11th century, the walls are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes. The mosaics depict the life of Virgin Mary and the infancy, genealogy and ministry of Christ. You'll also visit the Spice Bazaar, the second largest covered market in Istanbul. It was constructed in the 1660s as part of the Yeni Camii (New Mosque) complex. The name derives from the herbs, and spices imported from or through Egypt. It is still the best place to buy Turkish delight, dried fruit, exotic spices and herbs. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Istanbul Airport |
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Flight to Kayseri | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Cappadocia | |
Days 4-6 |
Cappadocia |
Accommodation in Cappadocia
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Argos - $$$$$
Take a step back in time with a stay at this extraordinary boutique hotel, housed within a...
•
The Museum Hotel - $$$$$
Positioned amid the striking and breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, housed within a...
|
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Highlights of Cappadocia First, you will visit Devrent Valley. One magical corner in the countless panoramic valleys of Cappadocia, here is an unbelievable landscape with its rock formations and savage feeling; one of the best introductions to understanding the formation of fairy chimneys. Next, you will stop in the Pasabag Valley where the formation of the 'fairy chimney' can be best observed. Pasabag, the Pasha's Vineyard, is surrounded by incredible natural rock formations; a spectacular scene. Last, you will visit Zelve, where three canyons meet in the Valley of Monks. The rock face at Zelve is honeycombed with caves and churches, and much of the decoration inside the churches is symbolic. You will visit the two most interesting churches; The Church of Grapes and the Fish Church. |
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Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia After an early morning pick up, you will take to the skies above Cappadocia to enjoy a thrilling and breathtaking ballooning experience. As you float over Cappadocia's unique landscapes, heading along its scenic valleys, you'll gain a greater appreciation of the sheer beauty of this area of Turkey. After your ride, you will head back to your hotel for a delicious breakfast. |
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Underground city and open air museum tour You’ll meet your professional guide for your private day of sightseeing. You’ll start your day descending below the Earth’s surface into the Kaymakli underground city, where five levels extend below the ground and include living quarters, kitchens, wine presses, storage rooms, stables and ventilation shafts. Early Christians carved out these subterranean complexes to avoid invaders who swept across the plains of Anatolia from the 6th to the 9th century. Next, you’ll visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where icons and other figurative representations were prohibited. The 11th century represents the 'Golden Age' of religious art in Göreme. Then, you’ll visit the Göreme Valley, which has been occupied since the dawn of history and is known as the 'Valley of the Churches'. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Kayseri Airport |
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Flight to Istanbul | |
Flight to Izmir | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Izmir | |
Days 6-8 |
Izmir |
Accommodation in Izmir
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Key Hotel - $$$$$
Set on the water’s edge at the heart of the city, just a short stroll from Izmir’s...
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Ephesus ancient city tour Discover this stunning ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during a fascinating tour that will allow you to delve into the history and identity of this site. You will first visit the Odeon Theatre, where the state affairs used to be held, before viewing the Hadrian Temple which was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis and the people of Ephesus. Next you will visit the newly excavated Terrace Houses located on top of the hill within the City of Ephesus. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians and are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes. After this, you will proceed to the Library of Celsus, the best preserved structure of its kind. The inscription on the side of the building’s front staircase says that the library was built by Julius between 114–117 AD, in his father’s honour, after his death. Following this, you'll visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD it was successfully reconstructed, expanded by the Romans until it reached a seating capacity of 25,000. After a delicious and traditional lunch, you will visit the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived in the last years of her life. The building was rediscovered in the late 19th century by Lazartis from Smyrna, based on the vision of a German nun. Finally, you will visit the Ephesus Museum to discover the many artefacts displayed here, which were found in Ephesus and other ancient sites in the region. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Bodrum |
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Days 8-11 |
Bodrum |
Accommodation in Bodrum
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The Marmara Bodrum - $$$$$
Ringed by an idyllic Mediterranean garden, and perched on a peak, this hotel is designed to...
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The Bodrum Edition - $$$$$
Blessed with a perfect position on the banks of the Turquoise Coast, this stylish boutique...
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Mandarin Oriental Bodrum - $$$$$
Enjoying a remarkable location alongside the glistening waters of the Aegean Sea on the Bodrum...
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Day at leisure in Bodrum Enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the hotel and enjoy the facilities, as well as the beautiful nearby beaches and the landscapes dotted with history. |
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Bodrum Castle Your professional guide will take you out for a private sightseeing tour. First, you will visit the Bodrum Castle which occupies the tip of the wedge-like peninsula at the centre of Bodrum. It is a splendid incarnation of medieval western military architecture, built at a time when the European Middle Ages were over, and castles of this type were fast becoming objects of nostalgia. It has a massive conglomeration of courtyards, turrets, galleries and sunken gardens. During your time exploring the castle, you will also have the opportunity to visit the on-site Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Considered the most established of its kind in the world, here you can discover numerous treasures from historic shipwrecks discovered along Turkey's southern shores. Also on display in the castle, and another subject of your tour, is a full reconstruction of one third of an Eastern Roman wreck, which dates from the 7th century. You'll find this wreck in the castle's Gothic Chapel. |
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Private gulet boat cruise You will enjoy a private adventurous sailing experience in a gulet, a typical wooden sailing boat from the region. You will enjoy crystal-clear water and swimming in the secret coves. You will have plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and relaxing. A gourmet lunch will be served onboard your gulet. At the end of your voyage you will have some time to stroll around Bodrum town. |
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Day at leisure in Bodrum Enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the hotel and enjoy the facilities, as well as the beautiful nearby beaches and the landscapes dotted with history. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Bodrum Airport |
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Flight to Istanbul |