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- Immersing in the vibrant colours and energy of Istanbul's historic covered market, a sensory feast of local goods.
- Contemplating the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, exploring Cappadocia's ancient caves, and the surreal beauty of Pamukkale's thermal waters.
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Your itinerary in brief —
Embark on a captivating 5, 7, or 8 night journey through Turkey, where cultural richness meets breathtaking landscapes, spanning two continents.
Begin in Istanbul, the city where East meets West, exploring the majestic Hagia Sophia, the opulent Topkapi Palace, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Explore the city's rich history, visiting the must-see sites before continuing through Bolu, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and İzmir, and admiring some iconic cultural wonders such as Topkapi Palace, Love Valley, and Ephesus.
Venture to Cappadocia, a land of otherworldly rock formations and ancient cave dwellings.
Continue to Pamukkale, home to the iconic 'Cotton Castles', terraces of white travertine filled with mineral-rich thermal waters. Nearby, the ancient city of Hierapolis awaits exploration. Conclude your adventure along the Aegean Coast, where turquoise waters meet historic treasures like Ephesus. Whether soaking in natural beauty or immersing yourself in Turkey’s cultural richness, this journey promises unforgettable experiences.
Choose the length of your stay:
5 night tour
Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul
Day 2: Istanbul
Day 3: Istanbul → Bolu
Day 4: Bolu → Ankara → Cappadocia
Day 5: Cappadocia
Day 6: Depart from Cappadocia
7 night tour
Day 1-5: Same as 5 night tour
Day 6: Cappadocia → Pamukkale
Day 7: Pamukkale → Izmir
Day 8: Depart from Izmir
8 night tour
Day 1-7: Same as 7-night tour
Day 8: Izmir → Bursa → Istanbul
Day 9: Depart from Istanbul
Please note:
- The transfers for this tour will be in a brand-new coach equipped with Wi-fi, with a maximum of 45 people per coach.
- Your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN ISTANBUL
Upon arrival in Istanbul, you'll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
- Shared transfer from Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Overnight stay at Windsor Bayrampaşa 5* or one of the other carefully selected hotels.
DAY 2: ISTANBUL
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel. Start your discovery of Turkey with a visit to the Imperial Blue Mosque, which is adorned by brilliant blue and turquoise Iznik tiles, and dominates Istanbul’s majestic skyline. Stroll through the Roman Hippodrome , which houses the ancient Egyptian Obelisk and Serpentine Column, before moving on to the famous Grand Bazaar.
Enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant and soak up all the atmosphere. Explore Balat District, one of Istanbul's oldest and most spectacular neighbourhoods. Wander through Istiklal Street, which is lined with beautiful late Ottoman period buildings, bustling traditional coffee houses, shops, bars and taverns.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Visit to the Roman Hippodrome and the Blue Mosque
- Discovery of Balat District, Grand Bazaar and Istiklal Street
- Overnight stay at Windsor Bayrampaşa 5* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in Istanbul
DAY 3: ISTANBUL → BOLU
After breakfast, stop at a leather shop, where you may find a piece of Turkish-made leather clothing - the perfect auto-gift or surprise for someone back home... Visit the main residence of the Ottoman dynasty, the magnificent Topkapi Palace, which was, once upon a time, home to Ottoman sultans. After lunch, drive to the city of Bolu, in time for dinner.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Visit to the Topkapı Palace
- Overnight stay at Hampton By Hilton Bolu 4* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in Bolu
DAY 4: BOLU → ANKARA → CAPPADOCIA
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departure for Ankara, the modern-day capital of Turkey. Visit the Ataturk Mausoleum, one of Turkey's most notable examples of modern architecture. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before discovering the unique lunar landscape of Cappadocia, where dwellings, monasteries, churches and underground cities have been dug out over the years.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Visit to the Mausoleum of Atatürk
- Overnight stay at Mustafa 5* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in Cappadocia
DAY 5: CAPPADOCIA
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Discover Göreme Valley, renowned for Cappadocia’s best collection of cave churches. Visit a traditional rug weaving centre to learn about the three-thousand-year-old tribal art of Turk. Lunch at a traditional cave restaurant, then explore an underground city. Admire the picturesque views of the lunar landscape region, and make a pit-stop at the famous Hunters’ Valley and Pigeon Valley. Take a break at the natural fort of Uchisar and visit a local pottery workshop in the town of Red River, Avanos.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Visit to an underground city
- Discovery of Göreme Valley. Photo stops at Hunters’ Valley, Pigeon Valley and Uchisar Castle
- Overnight stay at Mustafa 5* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in Cappadocia
DAY 6: DEPART FROM CAPPADOCIA
Breakfast will be at the hotel. You will be transferred to the airport (ASR) within the day, subject to your outbound flight time.
- Breakfast included
- Shared transfer to Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR)
7 NIGHT TOUR
DAYS 1-5: Same as 5 night tour.
DAY 6: CAPPADOCIA → PAMUKKALE
Savour a tasty breakfast and enjoy some bracing Turkish coffee at the hotel before your journey to Pamukkale, via the city of Konya. Stop en route at a typical caravanserai constructed in the 13th century. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Konya. Set off for Pamukkale and visit the unique open-air museum also known as Cotton Castle, with its myriad of pools and terraces. Take a short drive to your dinner destination.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Visit to a caravanserail, Pamukkale & Hierapolis
- Overnight stay at Colossae 5* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in Pamukkale
DAY 7: PAMUKKALE → IZMIR OR KUSADASI
After breakfast at the hotel, set off to visit the sacred city of Artemis, Ephesus, which is considered to be one of the leading Roman sites in the world. The Temple of Artemis was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Celsus Library was the third largest of its time. Enjoy an energising lunch at a traditional restaurant. En route to İzmir (or Kusadasi) for dinner, stop at a jewellery store to admire pieces made in traditional Turkish designs.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Visit to Ephesus
- Overnight stay at Karaca 4* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in İzmir (or Kusadasi)
DAY 8: DEPART FROM IZMIR
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Izmir Airport (ADB), in time for your outbound flight home.
- Breakfast included
- Shared transfer to Izmir Airport (ADB)
8 NIGHT TOUR
DAYS 1-7: Same as 7 night tour.
DAY 8: IZMIR → BURSA → ISTANBUL
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for the historic city of Bursa, the first official capital of the Ottoman Empire. Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you'll savour the iconic Iskender Kebab. Visit the Green Mosque, showcasing the transition from the Seljuk hypostyle to the grand domed mosques of Edirne and Istanbul. Marvel at the technical mastery and intricate blue-green tiles decorating its walls. Explore the Green Tomb, the resting place of Sultan Mehmet I, known for its serene atmosphere created by the dome’s eight windows.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Overnight stay at Windsor Bayrampaşa 5* or one of the other carefully selected hotels in Istanbul
DAY 9: DEPARTURE
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Istanbul Airport in time for your outbound flight home.
- Breakfast included
- Shared transfer to Istanbul Airport (IST)
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in a comfortable Single Room at thoughtfully selected 4* & 5* hotels.
Your hotels:
Istanbul: Windsor Bayrampaşa 5* / Lionel Bayrampaşa 5* / Doubletree by Hilton Topkapi 5* / Wishmore Bayrampaşa 5* / Ibis Styles Merter 5* (or similar)
Bolu: Hampton By Hilton Bolu 4* / Vonresort Abant Hotel (or similar)
Cappadocia: Mustafa 5*/ Ramada Cappadocia 5* / Doubletree by Hilton Avanos 5* / Avrasya 5* (or similar)
Pamukkale (7 & 8 night tours only): Colossae 5* / Richmond 5* / Adempira 5* / Lycus River 5* (or similar)
Izmir or Kusadasi (7 & 8 night tours only): Karaca 4* / Marina 4* / Blanca 4* / Sentinus 4* (or similar)
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Your dining choices
Throughout your tour, enjoy meals as per your itinerary, depending on which tour duration you choose, as follows:
Included extras —
2GB of included mobile internet data, to keep you connected on the go
Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for the modern traveller. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy a connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family, with no risk of going over the limit.
Note: 2GB of internet data represents around 25 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 2 to 3 hours of video streaming / social networking/video calls.
Your journey to Turkey —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Turkey
Turkey, where East meets West, is a country of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the vibrant streets of Istanbul, and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey offers a wealth of experiences, blending tradition with modernity in every corner.
Must-see:
- Hagia Sophia: A stunning masterpiece showcasing Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
- Topkapi Palace: The opulent home of Ottoman sultans, offering spectacular views of the Bosphorus.
- Ephesus: A UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved ruins, including the Library of Celsus.
- Cappadocia: Famous for its fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and hot-air balloon rides.
- Pamukkale: Natural mineral springs creating beautiful white terraces, perfect for a relaxing soak.
Culinary culture:
Turkish cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavours. Enjoy traditional dishes such as kebabs, mezes (small appetizers), and fresh bread. For dessert, try baklava or Turkish delight. Wash it down with Turkish tea or strong coffee for an authentic experience.
Dive deeper:
Beyond Istanbul, explore coastal gems like Antalya and Bodrum for stunning beaches and lively markets. The town of Safranbolu, known for its preserved Ottoman houses, offers a peaceful escape with a rich cultural experience.
Good to know:
Turkey’s currency is the Turkish lira (TRY). Public transport is widely available, with buses, metros, and ferries connecting major cities. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, but the country is a year-round destination.
Istanbul
Istanbul, where East meets West, is a city of contrasts and boundless history. As the last outpost of the Roman Empire, Istanbul boasts over 2,500 years of heritage, combining cultural richness with modern vibrancy. From ancient mosques to contemporary cafés, this city offers an unforgettable journey through time.
Must-sees:
- Hagia Sophia: A spectacular fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, featuring stunning mosaics and a magnificent dome.
- Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent world of Ottoman sultans with historic treasures, ornate courtyards, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
- Blue Mosque: A symbol of Istanbul’s Islamic heritage, renowned for its striking blue Iznik tiles and six towering minarets.
- Grand Bazaar: One of the world’s oldest covered markets, ideal for discovering spices, textiles, jewellery, and unique souvenirs.
- Bosphorus Cruise: Sail between Europe and Asia, enjoying remarkable views of Istanbul’s skyline along the Bosphorus Strait.
Culinary culture:
Istanbul’s cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavours. Indulge in traditional kebabs, meze platters, and sweet treats like baklava and Turkish delight. Fresh seafood along the Bosphorus is a must-try, while a cup of authentic Turkish coffee is perfect in one of the city's historic cafés. For an immersive experience, explore the Spice Bazaar, where aromatic stalls invite you to taste the city's culinary delights.
Dive deeper:
Istanbul’s position as the final stop of the Silk Road is reflected in its eclectic mix of art, architecture, and culture. Discover neighbourhoods like Galata and Karaköy, where boutique hotels, contemporary art galleries, and trendy shops coexist with centuries-old structures. To further uncover the city's hidden depths, visit the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir offering a unique historical experience.
Good to know:
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Istanbul, with pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing. The city seamlessly blends its historical wonders with modern allure, offering both cultural exploration and cosmopolitan excitement for travellers of all kinds.
Cappadocia
Carved by nature and shaped by centuries of human devotion, Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most extraordinary regions. A surreal landscape of sculpted valleys, volcanic rock formations and honeycombed hills, it reveals a world where history lies both above and below ground. Once a refuge for early Christians, the area is famed for its rock-cut churches, subterranean cities and cave dwellings, all set beneath skies that glow at sunrise with drifting hot-air balloons. Timeless, spiritual, and visually arresting, Cappadocia offers an experience unlike any other.
Must-sees:
- Göreme Open Air Museum: A UNESCO-listed complex of 9th- to 11th-century rock churches adorned with remarkable Byzantine frescoes.
- Göreme: The lively heart of the region, where traditional cave houses coexist with boutique cave hotels.
- Fairy Chimneys (Peri Bacaları): Iconic natural spires sculpted by erosion, scattered across valleys and hillsides.
- Kaymaklı Underground City: An astonishing multi-level refuge carved deep into the earth.
- Derinkuyu Underground City: The deepest known underground city in the region, descending to around 55 metres.
Culinary culture:
The cuisine of Cappadocia reflects Anatolia’s rustic traditions. Enjoy slow-cooked specialities such as testi kebabı, prepared in sealed clay pots, along with meze, grilled meats and fresh flatbreads. Local wines, produced from grapes grown in volcanic soil, are a regional highlight. Many meals are served in atmospheric cave restaurants, enhancing the sense of place and history.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the main sites, Cappadocia rewards quieter exploration. Discover the peaceful Soğanlı Valley, dotted with rock-cut houses, tombs and churches featuring beautifully preserved Byzantine paintings. Walk through lesser-known valleys where silence reigns, or hike scenic trails revealing panoramic viewpoints. For a truly memorable perspective, take a sunrise balloon flight and watch the region’s sculpted landscape unfold beneath you in soft morning light.
Good to know:
Cappadocia is best accessed via Kayseri or Nevşehir airports, both within easy driving distance. The ideal time to visit is April to June and September to October, when temperatures are mild and skies are clear. The local currency is the Turkish lira (TRY).