Itinerary
The following will give you an introduction to the April 2025 Turkiye trip. We are constantly doing research and incorporating new ideas, tailoring each tour to the guests in attendance.
This is a concierge tour. You will receive as much or as little support as you desire. Once you clear passport control and retrieve your baggage we will be waiting for you at Istanbul Airport. We planned a packed itinerary. You are always welcome to take a day off to wander on your own. You may choose to not participate in any particular activity.
This exciting tour of Turkiye takes you through a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient wonders of Ephesus and quant villages. You will experience the best of what Turkiye has to offer.
Additional information will be provided to you prior to departure with a suggested packing list, money considerations, things to buy, hot air balloon options and more. A final detailed itinerary will be provided approximately one week prior to departure.
Duration: 14 days
Welcome to Türkiye!
Day 1 - Arrival at Istanbul Airport, where we will greet you, and your journey begins. Travel Europe to Asia Minor for your first night. Enjoy a welcome dinner together and spend the evening outside of Ankara.
Day 2, 3, 4 - Enjoy Cappadocia, a unique region known for its otherworldly landscapes. Optional hot air balloon ride over the surreal Cappadocian landscape. Visit a Cappadocian Open-Air Museum home to ancient cave churches where you will walk among the fairy chimneys and rock formations. Visit the pottery town of Avanos and the workshop of the famed potter Chez Galip.. Two night stay in a cave hotel.
Day 5 - Travel the Silk Road toward Konya, the city of Rumi and Mevlana. Explore the 13th century Sultanhani Kervansaray. Visit Catalhoyuk, a 7000 BC excavation site. Witness the religious Sema ceremony of the Whirling Dervishes. Visit the Mevlana Museum, home to the Sufi poet's tomb. Overnight in Konya.
Day 6 - Spend a night in the Taurus mountains visiting the ancient city of Sagalassos, known for its well preserved ruins. Discover the Temple of Antoninus Pius and the theater. Overnight at Sagalassos Lodge.
Day 7, 8, 9 - Descend the Taurus Mountains. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Kas, a charming Mediterranean seaside fishing village. Take a relaxing walk along Oludeniz beach with its crystal clear waters. Explore the ghost town of Kayakoy and the town of Fethiye. Explore the charming local village of Uzumlu. Enjoy lunch prepared by family members. Observe or participate in lunch preparation. Visit to a local hamam (Turkish Bath). Three night stay at a yacht marina hotel.
Day 10, 11 Visit Pamukkale, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of the larger city of Hieropolis. Pamukkale, translated as "cotton castle" comprises natural mineral basins formed amongst calcium bicarbonate deposits. Enjoy a guided tour of Ephesus, one of the most well preserved ancient cities in the world, where St Paul preached to the Ephesians. Explore the library of Artemis and the amphitheater. Observe carpet weaving presentation. Two nights in Selcuk.
Day 12, 13, 14 - On the way back to Istanbul you will have the opportunity to visit local roadside shops where you may purchase olives, olive oil or other local products. In Istanbul a visit to Hagia Sofia awaits. Hagia Sofia is a cathedral turned mosque, turned museum and recently reconsecrated as a mosque. Visit the spectacular Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet, the Spice Bazaar and the Grand Bazaar for last minute shopping and the amazing architecture of this first indoor shopping arena. Cross the Bosphorus on a local ferry. Explore the local streets of Kadikoy. Enjoy a farewell dinner. Escorted return to Istanbul Airport with precious memories. Three nights in Istanbul.
Itineraries are subject to change: Turkey is full of surprises. We need to be flexible enough to take advantage of whatever comes along, so that we may provide you with the best possible experience.