Turkey: Iconic Istanbul, Aegean Coast to Cappadocia - 11 Days

As you arrive, settle into the warm embrace of Turkish hospitality. Take in the sights, smells and sounds of the city as you are whisked to your hotel before meeting your fellow travellers in the evening. We welcome you to Istanbul, and invite you to prepare for an experience of a lifetime across Turkey's most iconic regions, from imperial monuments and ancient civilizations to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. Arrive into Istanbul where you will be transfered to your hotel. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group and CEO later this afternoon. Afterwards, enjoy an orientation walk and optional dinner with your CEO.

Wander through the opulent courtyards of Topkapi Palace as your CEO brings history to life. Next, glide along the Bosphorus on a scenic boat cruise, taking in grand waterfront architecture. Dock on the vibrant Asian side for a local Foodie Moment in Kadıköy, sampling authentic street food. Finally, cap off your active day by walking across the iconic suspension bridge from Asia back to Europe. Spend a day exploring Istanbul where rich imperial history blends with lively modern culture across two continents. Start in the morning on the European side, uncovering majestic Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman monuments. In the afternoon shift to sensory discoveries, wandering through historic, bustling markets and vibrant neighborhoods, before ending with panoramic waterfront views along the beautiful Bosphorus Strait.

Step out for an active morning walk through Istanbul's history, exploring the ancient Hippodrome, majestic St-Sophia, and the subterranean Basilica Cistern alongside your CEO. After a lunch on your own, dive into a deeper cultural immersion, navigating the vibrant, historic labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar. Return to recharge before tonight’s exclusive Foodie Moment: the "Echoes of Coexistence" dinner. Hosted by a local chef, this evening is a storytelling culinary journey, savoring a mosaic of traditional Armenian, Greek, Jewish, and Turkish small plates. Soak in Istanbul’s icons in today and feel like you are time-traveling through centuries of empires. The overwhelming grandeur of towering domes and echoing cisterns inspires profound awe, while the vibrant energy of bustling bazaars enlivens the senses. It is a breathtaking, whirlwind journey that leaves you deeply captivated and spiritually moved.

Your journey takes flight this morning as you leave Istanbul behing and head to the sun-drenched coast of Bodrum. En route to your boutique seaside retreat in Yalıkavak, stop to stretch your legs among the ancient ruins of Heraklia, a captivating historical site nestled right along the shores of serene Lake Bafa. After settling into your coastal hotel, immerse your senses in local life with an unhurried stroll through the colorful stalls of a vibrant Aegean market. Conclude this beautiful day of discovery with a deliciously authentic culinary moment, savoring traditional, savory meatballs at a neighborhood eatery tucked just minutes from your accommodations. Flying from bustling Istanbul, descend from the clouds to the sun-drenched Aegean shores, pausing where forgotten ancient ruins slumber beside tranquil, mirror-like lake waters. Settle into your breezy seaside sanctuary, then wander through the vibrant colors of a bustling local bazaar. Conclude your gentle arrival with a deeply comforting, authentic neighborhood feast.

Today is all about you. Opt for an easy E-Bike ride exploring local history and coastal scenery, or immerse yourself in rural traditions with a Karaova village and wine tasting experience—both including a delicious local lunch. Spend a relaxing afternoon at leisure back at your hotel. In the evening, stroll down to an unforgettable seaside dinner right on the water. Savor fresh Aegean seafood and mezes while watching a stunning sunset over the neighboring Greek island of Kos. Awaken to a sun-drenched Bodrum morning, choosing between a scenic coastal e-bike journey through history or an immersive, wine-kissed escape into Karaova's rural heritage. After a tranquil afternoon at leisure, wander to the shoreline for an enchanting seaside feast, savoring Aegean delicacies as the sun dips behind distant Kos.

Step into the ancient world today, departing Bodrum to wander through the monumental ruins and historic theater of ancient Miletus. Explore the awe-inspiring Temple of Apollo at Didyma before a relaxed lunch. In the afternoon, watch coastal scenery give way to rolling hills as you travel to Selçuk and check into the peaceful Vinifera Winery estate for a delicious, locally inspired dinner. Leave behind the sparkling Aegean to journey through time, marveling at Miletus’ ancient grandeur and the towering Temple of Apollo at Didyma. As afternoon shadows lengthen, retreat to Selçuk’s serene, vine-draped countryside. Settle into your tranquil winery estate, concluding the day with a locally inspired dinner amidst the vineyards.

Dawn unveils the majestic whispers of ancient Ephesus, transitioning into heartfelt cultural exchanges with Selçuk’s local guardians. After a tranquil afternoon cradled by Vinifera's timeless olive groves, share ancestral kitchen secrets with the estate owner. Night falls on an elegant garden feast, beautifully serenaded beneath the glowing, immortal ruins. Uncover the wonders of antiquity during a morning exploration of the Ephesus archaeological site, followed by a meaningful connection with local heritage at the Selçuk community project. After a midday break for lunch on your own, unwind amidst the peaceful olive groves at Vinifera. Later, join the estate's proprietor for an interactive, hands-on culinary workshop. Your day culminates with an elegant outdoor feast showcasing your own creations, accompanied by live acoustic melodies and captivating views of the ancient ruins glowing after dark.

Watch the landscapes transform today as you catch a quick domestic flight to Ankara . Upon arrival, dive straight into the heart of the capital city with an orientation walk that brings its vibrant streets to life, pausing to savour a delicious lunch of regional specialties. In the afternoon, watch the horizon unfold from your window during a scenic drive through the changing Anatolian countryside, heading toward the surreal, fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia. After settling into your cave-style accommodations, the evening is yours to unwind, soak in the magical atmosphere, and discover a cozy local spot for dinner on your own. Fly to Ankara, where the echoes of ancient empires resonate through the grand capital. From there, journey across the rugged, sun-drenched Anatolian steppes as they give way to the mystical realm of Cappadocia. Wind-sculpted volcanic valleys rise like stone waves, welcoming you to a peaceful sanctuary wrapped in twilight wonder.

Begin your day marveling at the historic rock-cut churches of the Göreme Open Air Museum and exploring the fascinating depths of the Derinkuyu Underground City. Afterward, connect with local traditions during a hands-on farm experience, followed by a delicious, authentic farm lunch. Your afternoon features an exhilarating jeep safari through Cappadocia's hidden valleys, culminating in a scenic sunset picnic. Finally, enjoy a relaxing free evening to explore the magical local area at your own pace. Dawn illuminates Göreme’s historic rock churches before you delve into Derinkuyu’s subterranean mysteries. Next, ancestral farming traditions come alive over an authentic, earth-to-table lunch. As afternoon fades, an exhilarating valley safari sweeps you toward a breathtaking sunset picnic, leaving the starlit evening free for your own enchanted wanderings.

Dawn reveals ancient cave dwellings and subterranean mysteries before clay transforms beneath your hands in a traditional workshop. Later, glide along the Red River within a majestic water flotilla as the sun dips low, culminating your timeless journey with an intimate, earth-born farewell feast deep inside a candlelit cave. Begin your morning exploring the historic cave dwellings of Zelve Open Air Museum and the fascinating subterranean tunnels of Kaymaklı Underground City. Following lunch on your own, participate in a traditional ceramics workshop. Later, enjoy a visually stunning gondola ride along the Red River as part of a private flotilla. Conclude your memorable journey with an exclusive "From the Land to the Table" cave dinner farewell experience.

Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in Turkey will live on. As the morning sun casts its final golden glow over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, you board your flight to Istanbul full of delightful memories, the timeless spirit of Turkey remains forever woven into your soul.