Discover the Treasures of Turkey

Itinerary Highlights

Soar over Cappadocia’s in a hot air balloon, witnessing its honey-hued valleys and ‘fairy chimneys’
Sip authentic Turkish coffee in a historic roastery and visit the birthplace of Turkish Delight
Learn how to prepare traditional Turkish dishes during a private cooking class with a local
Delve deeper into Turkey’s rich history with a visit to Kaymakli Underground City in Kayseri

What's Included

Accommodation Throughout
Domestic Flights
International Flights

10 nights

Lucy

Travel Specialist

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Immerse yourself in Turkey’s rich culture, ancient history, and most extraordinary landscapes on this 11-day tour of the 'The Bridge Between Continents'.

Begin in Istanbul, where you'll visit iconic sites, including St. Sophia Mosque, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Wander through the Grand Bazaar – one of the oldest covered markets in the world – and enjoy a special Turkish coffee experience at a historic roastery.

Next, fly to Kayseri to discover the mysterious Kaymakli Underground City and take in the incredible scenery at Red Valley. In Cappadocia, you’ll soar over the surreal landscapes in a hot air balloon and explore ancient cave dwellings. You’ll even have the chance to take a taste of Turkey home with you during a hands-on cooking class with a local.

In Izmir, step back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus and the Terrace Houses, before sampling some of the region’s finest wines at Seven Sages Winery. Finally, unwind in Bodrum at your luxury beachfront hotel, soaking in the sun and enjoy optional experiences, like a private gulet voyage.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Istanbul

Fly into Istanbul and transfer to Orientbank Hotel, Autograph Collection, your hotel for the next three nights. Settle in and soak up the city’s energy — perhaps with a stroll through Sultanahmet or a cup of traditional Turkish tea. Tomorrow, your adventure truly begins in this mesmerizing city.

Day 2 Istanbul

Explore Istanbul’s timeless wonders on a full-day private tour. Admire the elaborate St. Sophia Mosque and the grandeur of Topkapi Palace. Wander through the historic Hippodrome, marvel at the Ottoman-era Blue Mosque, and shop for trinkets in the famous Grand Bazaar, ending the day with authentic Turkish coffee at a historic roastery.

Day 3 Istanbul

Indulge in a private half-day tour, savouring the flavours of Istanbul. Start with a visit to the vibrant Spice Bazaar, followed by a sweet treat at Ali Muhiddin Haci Bekir’s shop — the birthplace of Turkish delight! Then, take a private cruise along the Bosphorus to see the city from a different perspective. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure or unwind with an optional Turkish bath experience at Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan.

Day 4 Istanbul – Kayseri

On day four, take a morning flight from Istanbul to Kayseri (1 hr 30), where you'll explore the fascinating Kaymakli Underground City – a subterranean wonder carved eight stories deep into the ground. Next, discover the Red Valley with its striking landscapes and surreal rock formations. After your adventures, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 5 Kayseri

Start your day with a magical hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes. Then, set off on a full-day private tour, exploring the ‘fairy chimneys’ of Pasabag Valley and the Zelve Open Air Museum. Enjoy a hands-on cooking class in a local home, visit the rock-cut churches of Goreme, and try your hand at traditional pottery-making at Avanos Pottery Village.

Day 6 Kayseri

Today, visit Uchisar Castle – the highest point in Cappadocia – offering panoramic views of the region. Stretch your legs with a leisurely hike through Pigeon Valley, surrounded by mesmerising rock formations, then explore the serene Soganli Valley with its ancient cave churches. After an adventurous morning, the afternoon is yours to unwind or explore at your own pace.

Day 7 Kayseri – Izmir

On day seven, you’ll fly from Kayseri to Izmir and step into history at the Ancient Agora and Alexander the Great’s Castle, perched on the top of Mount Pagos. Visit the iconic Ottoman Clock Tower and delve into the bustling Kemeralti Bazaar. Along the way, sample simit or ‘gevrek’ – a beloved Turkish street food of sesame pretzels – before heading to your hotel.

Day 8 Izmir – Bodrum

Dive deeper into Turkey’s fascinating history with a visit the awe-inspiring ruins of Ephesus and its well-preserved Terrace Houses, adorned with ancient mosaics and frescoes. Then, enjoy a wine tasting at the charming Seven Sages Winery before exploring the lesser-known Ancient City of Magnesia. Afterward, make the scenic, three-and-a-half-hour journey from Izmir to Bodrum.

Day 9 Bodrum

Today’s all about relaxation at the beautiful Kempinski Barbaros Bay Bodrum Hotel. Lounge on the private beach, take a dip in the absolutely showstopping swimming pool, or treat yourself to a blissful spa day. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge and enjoy the hotel’s amazing facilities at your own pace.

Day 10 Bodrum

Another day to take it easy at your luxurious hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, though, you can choose to set sail over the crystal-clear waters of Barbaros Bay on a private gulet voyage. And for dinner, why not try the nearby Macakizi Restaurant, serving up Michelin-starred Mediterranean cuisine right on the shoreline.