Classic Turkey Cultural Walk (Istanbul, Aegean Coast & Cappadocia) 15D14N, Fully Guided

Making your own way from Istanbul Airport, your adventure begins at your hotel in The Haze Hotel located in Karaköy's centre. Unwind at its private terrace suites offering panoramic views of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus, or the Galata Tower. Experience pure bliss at the hotel’s restaurant Mükellef Karakoy which offers a rich menu of distinctive flavours from the hands of an award-winning chef. Nibbles and tasty cocktails are also on offer at the exotic bar found on the roof terrace, making for a perfect location to unwind.

For those in pursue for some adventure can explore the bustling streets and soak up the spirit of this wonderful city that connects Europe and Asia just steps away from the hotel.

Today at 9:00 am, gather for a welcome meeting where you’ll meet your leader. Set out for the Gallipoli Peninsula, an eminent scene of several First World War battles, where you’ll explore the battlegrounds to get a sense of the atmosphere of these battles and learn about their significance to the ANZAC (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps). Continue your journey crossing the renowned Dardanelles Strait which brings us to the city of Çanakkale in the late afternoon.

You’ll stay at Anzac Hotel, perfectly located in the heart of Canakkale and surrounded by picturesque attractions. Indulge in total ecstasy while admiring stunning artworks that depict ancient Troy and Gallipoli at the hotel restaurant, which serves a variety of delicious local and continental meals. Unwind with a cocktail in the lounge or stay in and enjoy the luxury comforts of your warmly decorated room and the 24-hour room service.

Note: Approx. driving time from Istanbul to Çanakkale is 5.5 hours (not including stop in Gallipoli).

Savour a delightful breakfast before journeying out to the historic city of Troy, an old city that was extolled in Homer's Iliad. Explore the remains of the city walls and the legendary wooden horse while learning more about the groundbreaking archaeological explorations that have taken place in this iconic area, which was once regarded to be a region of legend.

This afternoon we aim for the northwestern Aegean coast of Turkey, to reach the seaside town of Ayvalik. The beach town is surrounded by a group of lovely islands and is full of old stone buildings, winding cobblestone lanes, and small boutiques and cafes that serve local fare. While we tour the town, we could try some of the renowned local olive oil or Ayvalik sandwich.

Afterward, retreat to the seaside Bacacan Hotel, where you can unwind with a refreshing swim in the indoor pool or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment to relieve the stress of the day. Treat your taste buds to mouthwatering Turkish specialties at the restaurant and relax with a drink on the sun terrace or at the exotic bar before retiring to your opulent room for the night.

Approx. driving time from Çanakkale to Ayvalik is 3.5 hours.

Wake up to a hearty breakfast before we leave for Pergamon, an ancient Greek city and UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the Attalid dynasty's seat of government throughout the Hellenistic era, (approx. 323-331 BC). The most significant Pergamon ruins are located on the Acropolis, which we will reach via a picturesque cable car. Discover the significance of this unique archaeological site while discovering its temples, palaces, library, and monumental theatres containing relics from the prehistoric era. We will go on to the quaint town of Selcuk, where you will have the rest of the evening to relax or explore at your leisure.

For the next two days, we'll be staying at the charming family-run Kalehan Hotel. Make yourself at home and take advantage of all the special amenities on offer for your utmost comfort. Soak in the serenity at the lovely garden that offers breathtaking vistas at every turn. Laze in the chic lounge, relax in solitude at the outdoor swimming pool complete with an exotic bar, and sample expertly prepared meals at the stylish terrace restaurant before retiring for the evening.

Approx. driving time from Ayvalik to Selcuk is 2.5 hours.

Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean and a superb example of Greco-Roman architecture, will be our first stop this morning. Ephesus is an eternally significant religious centre, established by Ionian Greeks in the 11th century BC, and thrived under Roman administration. The cult of the Anatolian fertility goddess Cybele was superseded by the worship of Artemis, in whose honour a magnificent temple was constructed. It was renamed the Temple of Diana during the Roman invasion and was one of the first seven wonders of the ancient world.

We explore the enormous amphitheater, traverse the marble lanes that once welcomed Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and marvel at the gymnasium, baths, and exquisitely preserved Library of Celsus in this charming area.

Continue further to Selçuk to admire the Isa Bey Mosque and St. John's Basilica, two outstanding examples of early Seljukian architecture. Also, there will be some free time, so we highly suggest visiting the interesting Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Return to Kusadasi for the evening and retreat back at your hotel.

Approx. driving times between Kusadasi and Ephesus/Selçuk is 30 minutes.

This morning after a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Pamukkale, a special site popularly referred to as "Cotton Castle". Over hundreds of years, deposits from thermal waters cascaded down the mountainside, generating a variety of pools and terraces, which eventually led to the formation of this amazing natural wonder. Beautiful cream-coloured stalactites are created as the pools' water overflows, giving them the appearance of cotton or snow from a distance. The hot spring water in the pools is said to have therapeutic qualities. The ruins of Hierapolis, which the King of Pergamon established in 190 BC and which by the second century AD had developed into a significant Roman bathing location, are not far from Pamukkale.

Come afternoon, we will stop here and explore the theatre, temple, sacred space, colossal fountain, bath, basilica, and necropolis found within the extensive ruins of Hierapolis.

You’ll stay at Melrose Hotel, a charming family-run hotel located in Pamukkale. Unwind with a refreshing dip in the pool to end your day.

Approx. driving time from Selcuk to Pamukkale is 3-3.5 hours.

We leave Pamukkale this morning and journey to the coastal town of Kaş. Make a quick stop en route to take in the visual delights of Xanthos, the Lycian Federation's capital and its most significant city throughout Lycian history.

The small port city of Kaş, which is located on the Teke Peninsula, was formerly known as Habesos or Habesa in ancient Lycia and as Antiphellos to the ancient Greeks. Many rock-cut sarcophagi from the Lycian period still exist in the town, and there is also a well-preserved Hellenistic theatre on the borders of the city. The afternoon is yours to explore the city. Uncover the many bustling cafés, art galleries, and cobblestone alleyways that are scattered across the area.

You’ll stay at Linda Hotel, a charming resort located on the cosy seafront, where we spend the next two nights. You can relax with a relaxing swim in its glistening outdoor pool.

Approx. driving time from Pamukkale to Kas is 4 hours.

Today is your free day to do as little or as much as you please. Unwind or take advantage of the numerous things to do in and near Kaş along the Turquoise Coast. An excursion by boat to the submerged city of Kekova (minimum of 8 passengers required), lounging at Kaputas Beach, or seeing the old theatre in Kas are all possible options to explore.

Alternatively, simply retreat to the Linda Hotel with panoramic views of the travertines. Unwind in the outdoor pool, revitalise at the wellness spa, experience total bliss at the terrace restaurant serving both local and international cuisine, or soak up the vibrancy of the turquoise water while lounging by the beachside.

Today, we get off to a wonderful start as we depart for Antalya, one of Turkey's renowned beach destinations. Discover the old city of Kaleiçi after we arrive in the early afternoon. Thanks to its winding, cobblestone alleyways and old homes from the Ottoman era that still remain, the Kaleiçi has maintained much of its historical character while harbouring many taverns, restaurants, and stores.

During your stroll, pass through Hadrian's Gate, also known as the Triple Gate since it has three arches, the former Roman harbour, and the Mediterranean's azure waves. In the afternoon, visit the Phaselis Ancient City or the Antalya Museum with magnificent collections of mediaeval Roman sculptures.

Experience the height of comfort and elegance at the 4-star Argos Hotel in Cappadocia. Settle in and treat yourself to a holistic massage (at own expense) or simply laze by one of its cosy lounge spaces with picturesque views in one of Cappadocia's mystic caves.

Approx. driving time from Kas to Antalya is 3.5 hours.

We will travel to Aspendos this morning to see what is regarded as the best-preserved antique theatre. The Hittites established the city of Aspendos, which was formerly known as Belkis, but it was Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161–180 AD) who gave the order for the construction of this 15,000-seat theatre which still hosts classic performances today. After exploring this antiquity we aim for Konya, once known as Iconium in Roman times, Konya was a significant city in the Seljuk Empire and it was where the mysterious Sufi order known as the "Whirling Dervishes," came to life.

You’ll stay at Sems-l Tibrizi Hotel. Relax at the sauna and Turkish bath on-site or unwind in your contemporary room with charming views of the sunset.

Approx. driving time from Antalya to Konya is 4.5 hours.

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast to the fullest this morning before we follow the trail to the Mevlana Museum, which is the site of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi's grave and also the former residence of the Whirling Dervishes. Mevlana, commonly referred to as Rumi, was an Anatolian mystic and Muslim saint who lived in the 13th century. One of Turkey's most recognizable sites is the museum's turquoise-tiled fluted dome, which is now a place of pilgrimage.

Our next stop is the wonderful Cappadocia region where the cave houses, rock-hewn chapels, and underground civilizations, all shaped by wind and water, must be seen to be believed! Come afternoon we will pause at the Sultanhani caravanserai, one of the biggest roadside inns in the world, it was built in the 13th century and served as a rest station for merchants and other Silk Road travelers.

The breathtaking Ihlara Valley (one of the volcanoes responsible for the formation of Cappadocia) on the slopes of Mount Hasan is our final stop for the day. Embark on a stroll by the Melendiz River and explore a variety of rock-hewn churches and monasteries, many of which are embellished with stunning biblical artwork.

You’ll stay at Heybe Hotel, a meticulously crafted treasure prepared to make a lasting impression as it opens its doors. The wellness facilities and spa treat you to a variety of massages to relax your tensed muscles, benefit from the Turkish Bath while you enjoy the views over the majestic landscapes, and settle in for an open buffet at the restaurant that offers tantalising meals to cap off your busy day. (Massages are at own expense).

Approx. driving time from Konya to Cappadocia is 4 hours.

Early in the morning, you might choose to take a thrilling hot air balloon flight above Cappadocia's fantastical fairy chimneys. Then, after a hearty breakfast, we travel to the UNESCO-designated Göreme Open Air Museum, a large monastic complex that includes churches, monasteries, homes, and an underground city. A pilgrimage site since the 17th century, Göreme Open Air Museum is a must-see destination for all travellers visiting Cappadocia and is thought to have originated as a Byzantine monastery town. Wonderful frescoes with colours that are still vibrant after hundreds of years can be found in the rock-hewn churches.

Moving forward, we transfer to one of the interesting underground cities in Cappadocia (Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, depending on availability and other local considerations). The Phrygian people are thought to have built subterranean towns as early as the eighth century BC in order to shield their citizens from battles and wars that took place above ground. Up to the early 20th century, the homes were still occupied before they were later abandoned.

This morning, bid Cappadocia farewell and journey back to Istanbul. You have the option to travel to the Asian side of Istanbul by crossing the Bosphorus with your leader. Here, you'll find bustling, close-knit neighbourhoods as well as clusters of adorable cafes, marketplaces, and restaurants. You are free to continue discovering this captivating city's charms for the remainder of the afternoon or opt for Turkish Bath therapy.

The Haze hotel opens up its magnificent doors to welcome you for another unforgettable two nights. Relax and relish the luxurious comforts of your home.

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast where the morning is yours to do as you please. Come afternoon, enjoy more free time or join an introductory exploration of this city, rich in culture and history. We will go to Sultanahmet (the Old City, also known as Constantinople), where remnants of old empires and important historical landmarks coexist with modern-day Istanbul. Explore the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome, where Byzantine Emperors watched chariot races alongside thousands of screaming fans. Stroll around the Grand Bazaar, which is home to the renowned Spice Market and more than 3,000 shops selling handcrafted jewellery, textiles, and books.

Savour a relaxing breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before you bid farewell and make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.