Private Escapes Sale: Turkey

Arrive in Istanbul, a bustling crossroads of history, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.

Begin your day with a stroll to the timeless Hagia Sophia. Take in the structure’s imposing façade, matched only by the grandeur of its towering, vaulted ceilings within. Next, visit the Basilica Cistern, its marble columns standing since the sixth century. Ride Like a Local on a public ferry across the Bosphorus to explore the food markets of the Asian side. Later return by ferry to the European side and your hotel, with the remainder of the day at leisure.

Today visit Topkapi Palace, once a seat of Ottoman power, with its extensive harem chambers. Learn the history of this medieval palace complex built in 1459, viewing the Ottoman-related weapons, armor, garments, religious relics and illuminated manuscripts on display in its regal sanctuary turned museum. Stop at the Istanbul Archeological Museum to view its collection of fascinating artifacts.

Explore Suleymaniye Mosque and Istanbul’s fabled Grand Bazaar, meeting local craftspeople along the way. Enjoy a last afternoon in the city, absorbing the many pleasures and experiences that Istanbul has to offer.

Rise early to fly to Turkey’s sparking Turquoise Coast. After landing in Izmir, continue to Ephesus, where Saint Paul once lived and preached. Explore the renowned archaeological park and museum here, and visit Didyma to view the Temple of Apollo, dating to at least 300 BC. Discover the Temple of Zeus at Euromos, and then continue to your hotel in Bodrum, situated above the city with stunning views of the coast.

Today, enjoy a morning exploration of fascinating Bodrum. Stop by the ancient Theater of Halicarnassus before visiting the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum in the Castle of St. Peter, which houses the oldest shipwreck ever discovered. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your departing flight.