Turkey: A Journey Through History

Begin in Istanbul, a storied city steeped in history, which witnessed Christianity reach a momentous turning point and served as the capital of the 600-year Ottoman Empire. Settle into your sumptuous hotel and relax as weary travellers have done here for millennia.

Begin a tour of the city’s highlights when you view the Basilica Cistern, its marble columns still standing since the sixth century. Continue to the timeless Hagia Sophia to marvel at the structure’s imposing façade, matched only by the grandeur of its vaulted ceilings. Then explore the ancient Hippodrome, which once hosted chariot races, and the city walls, dating to various eras of the city’s storied history. After lunch, embark on a private cruise of the Bosphorus with a refreshing drink in hand as you gaze out over its enchanting waters. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner.

Revel in the ornately decorated ceilings and spectacular tile work of Topkapi Palace, the one-time imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, and then view highlights of the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. Fly to Bodrum, a sun-drenched coastal haven on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Check in to your hotel and relax before dinner.

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. Gain A&K-exclusive private access to the research and conservation laboratories. Next, savor a chef-led cooking demonstration at a charming restaurant founded by a local self-taught gourmet chef who shares some of her secrets. The rest of your day is free to spend as you please.

Journey to Euromos, a site where weathered stone monuments still echo with tales of mighty Greek deities. Explore the ruined yet magnificent Temple of Zeus. Continue to Didyma to discover the Temple of Apollo, dating to at least 300 BC. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Izmir, where you enjoy dinner.

Embark on a day trip to Ephesus, a city graced with well-preserved architectural marvels, where Saint Paul once lived. Explore the renowned archaeological park and museum here as well as the weekly farmers market’s bustling product stalls, before eating a special lunch in a nearby village. Return to Izmir for an afternoon and evening on your own.

Fly via Istanbul to Cappadocia, a region renowned for whimsical landscapes formed by volcanic eruptions and shaped by wind and rain from time out of mind. Explore the nearby volcanic stone “fairy chimneys.” Later, enjoy access to the rock-carved churches of Goreme, and visit the Dark Church, before dining at your hotel.

This morning, opt for a hot air balloon excursion over Cappadocia. Afterward, visit the Goreme Weavers Association on an engaging artisan visit. Then, sit down with a local family for lunch at their home. In the afternoon, explore a fascinating, centuries-old underground city that includes chapels, kitchens, air vents and dwellings carved out of volcanic rock.

Today, fly back to Istanbul. This afternoon, visit Dolmabahçe Palace, once a seat of Ottoman power, and see the collection of Ottoman royal barges, a hidden gem of the city.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.