The Highlights of Turkey

11 Day trip, from $9,850 PP

Experience history and culture, food and the natural landscapes of stunning Turkey. Explore the mesmerising city and cultural hub of Istanbul, the magnificent Blue Mosque and grand Topkapi Palace. Marvel at the unique landscapes and ‘fairy chimneys’ of Cappadocia from the skies on a hot air balloon ride. Then, the ancient history of Ephesus, known throughout the ancient world for being the site of the Temple of Artemis and finally, to the coastal playground that is Bodrum and its peninsula.

Trip highlights

  • Wandering the vibrant and colourful bazaars of Istanbul
  • Taking a cruise along the waters of the mighty Bosphorus
  • Floating above Cappadocia on a hot air balloon ride
  • Stepping back in time on a visit to Ephesus
  • Traditional sailing around Bodrum's peninsula

A spice market in Istanbul

The view over Cappadocia

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus

Cobbled streets in the town of Alacati

A gulet floats on turquoise waters

Bespoke trips with Luxury Travel

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Private transfers
  • Private tours and experiences
  • Full support from your travel designer and concierge
  • Help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance

Itinerary in detail

Every trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1–4

Four days exploring Istanbul

Istanbul, the country’s most populous city and cultural hub, is the most fascinationg place to spend four days, visitng the main landmarks such as the magnificent Blue Mosque and grand Topkapi Palace. Gain a different perspective of the city from the Bosphorus during a scenic motor yacht cruise and wander the city’s bustling bazaars to taste and authentic and mouth-watering Turkish cuisine.

Take in the City’s many other highlights on a private tour with an expert guides. Visit St. Sophia, located between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, and marvel at the Basilica Cistern’s 336 beautiful columns including the two that feature the head of Medusa. Stop by the Hippodrome, which was one of the largest chariot race grounds of the Byzantine Empire. Learn about the art of carpet weaving at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Shop for world famous handmade carpets and kilims, some of the most beautiful examples of Turkish silver art and decorations made of copper and bronze and ceramics.

Days 4–6

See the sites in Cappadocia

Spend two unforgettable days exploring the magical area of Cappadocia. Visit Devrent and Pasabag (the Pasha’s Vineyard) Valleys, where unbelievable landscapes and savage, spectacular rock formations reveal the secrets of the famed ‘fairy chimneys’. You can also visit Zelve, where three canyons meet in the Valley of Monks and the rockface is honeycombed with caves and churches, stopping at the most interesting; The Church of Grapes and the Fish Church.

Days 6–8

Two nights in Izmir to explore ancient Ephesus

The city of Izmir is the perfect base for discovering the nearby ancient history of Ephesus. Known throughout the ancient world for being the site of the Temple of Artemis, you’ll enjoy a full day exploring this incredible site, including its fantastic museum.

Ephesus ancient city tour

Discover this stunning ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during a fascinating private tour. Visit the Odeon Theatre, before viewing the Hadrian Temple which was dedicated in 118 AD to Hadrian, Artemis and the people of Ephesus. Stop at the excavated Terrace Houses located on a hill within the City. They were inhabited by wealthy Ephesians and are decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
After this, the Library of Celsus, the best preserved structure of its kind and built by Julius between 114–117 AD, in his father’s honour. Then you’ll visit the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. After a delicious lunch go to the House of Virgin Mary, where the Virgin is said to have lived in the last years of her life. Finally, the Ephesus Museum to find the many artefacts that have been found in Ephesus and other ancient sites in the region.

Days 8–11

Time at leisure to soak up Bodrum

Your last stop will be Bodrum, an area of beautiful coastal scenery where you can relax at the hotel and head out to discover the beautiful nearby beaches and landscapes dotted with history.  In addition to relaxing on the beach or at your hotel, you’ll have the chance to discover Bodrum’s iconic castle, as well as take to the water on a memorable and traditional sailing experience in a gulet.

Ready to start your adventure?

Whatever you want your luxury private tour or safari itinerary to include, we’ll create something fully bespoke for you… and only you.

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