Discover the rich and diverse historical landscape of Turkey, exploring the best the nation has to offer, from exquisite Istanbul to archaeological wonders that date from ancient Greece to the Ottoman Empire, enjoying privileged access and scholarly guiding throughout your journey.
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 8
DAY 9
DAY 10
DAY 11
DAY 1
Arrive in Istanbul, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
DAY 2
Rise early for a private, before-hours opening of the Basilica Cistern, with its marble columns dating to the sixth century. Continue to the timeless Hagia Sophia, marveling at the structure’s imposing façade and towering vaulted ceilings. Delve into the distinctive Pera district and visit a coffeehouse, learning the story of this uniquely Turkish tradition. After lunch, embark on a private cruise of the Bosphorus. Later this evening, gather with your fellow guests for a welcome dinner.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3
Revel in the ornately decorated ceilings and spectacular tile work of Topkapi Palace, the one-time imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, and then view the ancient city walls, standing since the time of Constantine. Fly to Bodrum and check in to your hotel to relax before dinner.
The Marmara Bodrum
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 4
Stop by the ancient Theater of Halicarnassus before visiting the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum in the Castle of St. Peter, which houses the oldest shipwreck ever discovered. Gain A&K-exclusive private access to the research and conservation laboratories. Next, savor a Chef ’s Table cooking demonstration showcasing local dishes and an exploration of the local farmers market’s vibrant produce stalls. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
The Marmara Bodrum
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 5
Journey to Euromos to explore the ruined yet magnificent Temple of Zeus. Continue to Didyma to discover the Temple of Apollo, dating to at least 300 BC. Stop for lunch at a local seaside restaurant. Then, proceed to Priene for a walking tour at the age-old Temple of Athena before continuing to Izmir, where you enjoy dinner overlooking the sea.
Swissotel Buyuk Efes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6
Embark on a day trip to Ephesus, where Saint Paul once lived. Explore the renowned archaeological park and museum here before enjoying a special lunch in a nearby village. Return to Izmir for an afternoon and evening at leisure.
Swissotel Buyuk Efes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 7
Fly via Istanbul to Kayseri and explore the nearby volcanic stone “fairy chimneys,” which also provide the setting for a refreshing Scenic Sundowner. Next, on an A&K-exclusive experience, enjoy private, after-hours access to the rock-carved churches of Goreme, and visit the Dark Church, before dining at your hotel.
Argos in Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 8
This morning, enjoy an optional hot air balloon excursion over Cappadocia. Then, visit the Goreme Weavers Association on an engaging artisan visit. Next, sit down with a local family for lunch in their home. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating underground city at Kaymakli, which dates to as early as the eighth century BC and includes chapels, kitchens, air vents and living quarters carved out of volcanic rock.
Argos in Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 9
Today, fly back to Istanbul. This afternoon, visit Dolmabahce Palace, once a seat of Ottoman power, and see the collection of Ottoman royal barges, a hidden gem of the city.
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10
Explore Suleymaniye Mosque and the Grand Bazaar. After lunch at a local restaurant, stroll the fragrant spice market. Ride Like a Local on a public ferry across the Bosphorus to explore the food markets of the Asian side. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner.
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to depart.
Meals: Breakfast
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
The Marmara Bodrum
Swissotel Buyuk Efes
Argos in Cappadocia
Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul
