Treasures of Turkey (14 Days)

Begin your day with a visit to the Byzantine Hippodrome, a vibrant hub of Istanbul's social life. Marvel at the 17th-century Blue Mosque and the magnificent Hagia Sophia. The afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. Consider an optional visit to the opulent Topkapi Palace and the bustling Grand Bazaar.

Travel along the ancient east-west trade route to the UNESCO-listed town of Safranbolu. Once a bustling caravan station, the town's Ottoman-style wooden houses and narrow streets echo its rich history. Join your Travel Director for a sightseeing tour, starting with panoramic views from Hidirlik Hill. Spend the afternoon exploring the Eski Carsi and Arasta Bazaar.

Explore the fairy-tale landscapes of Cappadocia, with its rock chimneys rising from the depths of Paşabağı and the Red Valley. Visit a regional rug production centre to learn about the intricate art of Turkish carpet weaving. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the natural wonders of the region. Consider joining an optional experience to the rock churches of Göreme or witness the mesmerizing performance of the Whirling Dervishes.

Start your day with a visit to a local pottery workshop before exploring the Saratli Underground City. On your way to Konya, stop at a 13th-century caravanserai, a reminder of the bustling trade route that once passed through Cappadocia. In Konya, discover the village of Sille, where Greeks and Turks lived side by side for centuries.

Visit the Mevlana Museum, the final resting place of the Sufi philosopher Mevlana, before heading to the turquoise coast of Antalya. Explore the city's old town, with its beautifully restored Ottoman-era houses. Upon arrival at your hotel, consider joining an optional dinner at a local restaurant renowned for its delicious dishes.

Leave the coast behind and head to Lake Salda, known for its white sands and clear waters. Visit the Kaklik Cave with its sparkling white travertines before continuing to the cotton fortress of Pamukkale.

Visit the ruins of the ancient Roman health spa of Hierapolis before heading west to the Aegean coastline. Arrive in Izmir, a charming port town with a rich multicultural past. Consider joining an optional seafood dinner at a local restaurant with stunning views.

Travel to Pergamon, known for its Asclepion Medical Centre, and then to Troy, the ancient city that inspired Homer's tales. See the replica of the famous Trojan horse before continuing to Çanakkale.

Visit the World War I battlefields of Gallipoli, including Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery, and Chunuk Bair. Return to Istanbul and consider joining an optional cruise along the Bosphorus, the boundary between Europe and Asia.