Journeys: Discover Turkey National Geographic Journeys

After breakfast, we'll visit the ancient city of Troy and attend a Trojan War and Mythology talk. Next, we'll travel to Bergama, a renowned town in Hellenic and Roman times, for lunch and a visit to the Pergamon Acropolis. In the evening, we'll arrive in Selçuk, where you can enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Begin your day with a tour of the ruins of Ephesus, an ancient Greek city famous for its Temple of Artemis. From Ephesus, we'll travel to Kirazli Village for a cooking class where you'll learn about traditional Aegean cuisine. After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Kirazli, a peaceful village surrounded by olive and grape farms. Return to Selçuk for dinner and an evening at your leisure.

After breakfast, we'll leave Selçuk and travel to Laodikeia for a visit of this ancient landmark. We'll then continue on to Pamukkale for lunch and a guided walk of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Hierapolis. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure and opt for a mineral bath in Pamukkale.

After breakfast, we'll leave Pamukkale and transfer to Termessos for a visit of this ancient city. Enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning panoramic views of the Pamphylia region and Taurus Mountains. Arrive at Antalya, a lovely seaside town, in the late afternoon and wander the charming hillside streets on a walk with your guide.

In the morning, visit the Sultanhan Caravanserai, an important stopover along the Silk Road. From there, you'll travel to Derinkuyu to explore the Underground City. Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you'll see a Whirling Dervish performance, a dance that has been practiced since the 13th century as part of a Muslim ceremony to glorify God and seek spiritual perfection. After the performance, dinner will be at your leisure.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum on a guided tour of these vibrant painted cave churches. From here set out on a hike through the UNESCO World Heritage Site-listed 'fairy chimneys'. In the afternoon, enjoy time on your own to visit the Turkish Baths or to see Uchisar Castle. Dinner this evening will be enjoyed with a local family around their table in Zelve Village.

In the morning, explore the iconic Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Along with a specialist guide, you'll listen to a lecture about the Ottoman Empire's ties to the bazaar and learn about its modern secular Turkish founder, Kemal Ataturk. In the afternoon, take advantage of time on your own with a visit to the atmospheric Spice Bazaar. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.