Turkey's History, Culture & Coastline

Day 1  Istanbul    
Fly to Istanbul and transfer to your hotel, your base for exploring this enchanting city at your own leisure. Spend the next few days discovering Istanbul’s melting pot of cultures, historic past and fascinating skyline. On your first evening, enjoy an included private food tour with a local guide, tasting traditional Turkish delicacies at the Spice Bazaar, the back streets of Eminonu, and the Kadikoy fish market.      

Day 2  Istanbul    
Begin today by discovering Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks; the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, all conveniently located within easy walking distance of each other. These landmarks not only amaze visitors with their architectural beauty, but also offer compelling history, with the Hagia Sophia’s fascinating blend of religions.

Day 3  Istanbul    
Today, why not cruise along the Bosphorus Strait on a public ferry, taking you past the impressive Dolmabahce Palace and gliding through the Europe and Asia divide. In the afternoon wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, another icon of Istanbul, this exciting market will have you coming back with plenty of souvenirs.      

Day 4  Istanbul to Cappadocia    
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cappadocia, known for its exquisite landscape and iconic hot air balloons. Arrive to your hotel, built into the cave, offering a unique experience that is emblematic to Cappadocia. Head out to explore this landscape of cone-shaped rock formations and cave dwellings, particularly famous for its distinctive fairy chimneys.    

Day 5  Cappadocia    
On your first morning rise early for your included Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon flight. Marvel at hundreds of colourful balloons flying above beautiful valleys and unique rock formations and upon landing enjoy a glass of champagne to celebrate. In the afternoon, perhaps visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Byzantine monastic settlement. The valley is filled with rock-cut churches, chapels and monasteries, some dating back to the 10th Century.    

Day 6  Cappadocia    
Enjoy a relaxed day at leisure for you to explore. Perhaps visit one of the many surrounding natural valleys with their unique rock formations or meander the village streets, shopping in the local handicraft stores. In the evening, dine on traditional Anatolian cuisine in a local restaurant, sipping on Cappadocian wine and taking in the breathtaking scenery.    

Day 7  Cappadocia to Bodrum    
Bid farewell to this ethereal landscape before flying to Bodrum and transfer to your beautiful beach resort for a week of bliss.    

Days 8-13  Bodrum    
Enjoy your beach escape in Bodrum. Spend your days relaxing by the pool, indulging in a revitalising spa treatment and enjoying the wealth of facilities in your resort. For those feeling more active, Bodrum Town is home to a crowning castle, glittering marina and flower-filled cafés set among the white-plastered back streets.      

Day 14  Fly home