Your Journey

Day 1: Istanbul

Arrive Istanbul and transfer to hotel.

Day 2: Istanbul – Bursa

Depart Istanul by fast ferry to port of Mudanva, then by local bus to Bursa, where you'll spend the night. Spend the afternoon exploring the fascinating warren of streets and old Ottoman hans (warehouses). Bursa is also home to thermal springs nearby at Cekirge. Treat yourself to a soak, steam and scrub Turkish-style.

Day 3: Bursa - Selcuk

Travel by public bus to the farming village of Selcuk today. In town on the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill lie several historical buildings - you'll see the Isa Bey Mosque, a beautiful example of 14th century Seljuk Turkish architecture, and the imposing Byzantine Citadel of the Grand Fortress. On arrival this evening enjoy an orientation walk around the village of Selcuk.

Day 4: Selcuk

This morning travel by private minivan to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Eastern Mediterranean.  Tour around the amphitheatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and beautifully restored Library of Celsus. This afternoon, drive out to a picturesque village of Sirince and taste some locally produced fruit wines.

Day 5: Selcuk - Pamukkale

At Pamukkale see the spectacular natural pools which are filled with hot spring water that supposedly have healing properties. Then onto the ruins of Hierapolis, which are well worth exploring and include a theatre, temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica and necropolis.

Day 6: Pamukkale – Kayakoy

This morning we travel south by bus towards the coast, to the Greek ghost-town of Kayakoy. Stroll around and take in the eerie atmosphere. It provides the opportunity to see an untouched, traditional Turkish town in a very eerie location.

Day 7: Kayakoy

Today, set out on a half-day trek along a section of rugged coastline, following part of the ancient walking trail to the Lycian Way to nearby Oludeniz, where you can swim in the Blue Lagoon. This evening join your hosts for a Turkish barbecue dinner (included), relaxing in their garden and enjoying some delicious local food and lively company.

Day 8: Kayakoy - Kas

Short ride by dolmus (shared taxi) to Fethive, then public bus passed spectacular coastal scenery, to Kas and begin exploring on a walking tour with your guide. Here you will see charming whitewashed houses as well as an ancient Greek theatre. Swim from the local beach then enjoy the night in the town's quaint centre. 

Day 9: Kas – scenic boat curise

Board a local boat for a relaxing cruise through picturesque islands, all with very distinctive rock formations. Look out for some ancient houses that are submerged under the clear water!  Pass quaint villages with stone houses and views from a hilltop castle.  There are lots of swimming opportunities  and a home cooked Turkish meal. This costal cruise is on a traditional Gulet, you will be sleeping on the deck, find the best spot and enjoy an evening drifting off to sleep under a starry Mediterranean sky.

Day 10: Kas - Anatalya

This morning cruise down the coast to Antalya, the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. Glimpse beautiful views of the Taurus Mountains en route.  Arrive in Antalya where you stay in the Kaleiçi (old city).   Walk to Hadrian’s Gate, the old Roman Harbour and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. If time permits visit the Antalya Museum.

Day 11: Antalya - Konya

Bus to Konya, passing the city of Sagalassos. The ruins of the city are dramatrically sited in the Taurua Mountains. On to Konya, home of the Whirling Dervishes, the mystic Sufi practice.  You can learn about felt making which is an older craft than weaving at Ikonium Studio one of galleries of felt makers.

Day 12: Cappadocia

Morning bus to the heart of Cappadocia, then settle into your hotel in Goreme. The town lies in a fantastic region of cones, needles and columns, fashioned by nature from the soft volcanic tuff rock. It's honeycombed with caves scooped out to make churches and dwellings that are known as fairy chimneys and castles. When you arrive in Goreme take a leader-led orientation walk. Pack sturdy walking shoes and comfortable daypack for exploring the valleys of Cappadocia.

Day 13: Cappadocia

Option to take an early morning hot air balloon flight that is sure to take your breath away. Visit the Goreme Open Air Museum where you can see many incredible houses, churches and monasteries carved out of the soft cliff face. The Christian sanctuaries contain examples of Byzantine art, cave chapels and colourful biblical frescoes from the 10th–12th centuries.  Finish the day with a short walk through 'Love Valley' which is famous for its phallic rock formations. Perhaps take an optional Turkish bath to unwind at the end of the day.

Day 14: Cappadocia

Take a walk through one of the nearby valleys this morning. You can also explore the underground cities. Beneath Cappadocia's rock formations is a network of fascinating subterranean cities, which housed up to 10,000 people each. The largest are almost ten levels deep, with narrow passages connecting the floors. Last evening in Goreme 

Day 15: Cappadocia - Istanbul

Morning flight to Istanbul. On arrival into Istanbul Airport your tour ends.