The Flying Carpet Tour is a captivating 15-day journey through Western Turkey, blending history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Troy, and Pergamon, this tour takes you on a fascinating exploration of Turkey’s most iconic sites.
Travel through time as you walk among the remnants of powerful empires, from the grandeur of the Ottoman palaces in Istanbul to the well-preserved ruins of Roman cities. Witness the moving landscapes of Gallipoli, where history and heroism are deeply intertwined. Experience the ethereal beauty of Pamukkale’s cascading travertines, the hidden churches of Cappadocia’s cave dwellings, and the pristine shores of Fethiye and Antalya.
Beyond its breathtaking sights, this tour also offers immersive cultural experiences, such as a traditional cooking course in Cappadocia and a wine tasting in Sirince, allowing you to connect with Turkey’s rich traditions and flavours.
This 9-day tour of Greece will guide you through some of the most famous and fascinating islands in the Mediterranean. Begin your journey in Athens and discover the heady mix of ancient history and contemporary attractions. Bask in the beauty of the world-famous Acropolis, which is visible from nearly every part of the city! Dig deep into the layers of history through the magnificent monuments and museums or feel the creative energy of Athens with its fascinating street art. Make your way to Rhodes, a traditional yet modern destination and the sunniest place in Greece! Here you may explore the medieval Old Town and villages which have been popular since the Roman Ages. The Old Town boasts a history of 2400 years apparent through ancient statues, marble fountains, and magnificent palaces. Next, you will catch a ferry to Kos, one of the first Aegean islands to attract visitors. This is a handsome harbour community with its medieval castle boasting ancient ruins from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras. Walk around the waterfront as you explore cafes and tavernas like a local before you travel to Athens where you will end your tour of the Greek Islands!
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
This was a fascinating and rewarding tour led by an extremely efficient young man called Christos. Transport throughout was in a first class mini-bus and hotel accommodation was more than adequate, if not always top rate. The itinerary was varied and comprehensive and our only reservation concerned the number of rather grueling and lengthy walks involved.
Clients should, perhaps, have been made more aware that many of the historical sites in Greece lie at the top of steep hills. Access is often only possible up steep and slippery cobbled tracks which can be difficult for the elderly and a daunting challenge for anyone with mobility issues. On more than one occasion, at least 4 members of our group felt compelled to opt out and entertain themselves for an hour or more while waiting for the others.
That aside, my wife and I enjoyed every single moment of the tour and we cannot praise Christos highly enough. He is young and still keen to learn, but he showed remarkable maturity in his dealings with everyone in the group and his organizational skills were excellent and beyond reproach. Well done to him - and our driver George as well!
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Walking through ancient ruins, sailing along the Aegean, and exploring Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar—every day was an adventure! Highly recommend this trip for history lovers!
Another spectacular trip with Explore. I highly recommend this company. As a solo female traveller they have never let me down. Explore is 100 % reliable.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tirana, Kruje, Valbona Valley Na
Tirana, Kruje, Valbona Valley National Park, Shkoder, Durres, Lake Ohrid, Pristina, Peja, Prizren, Rahovec
Fantasic trip Zep our leader was always there with us, full of local knowledge
and great fun to be around. Our group was fairly small and we all enjoyed each others company. The views were spectacular, and our boat trip on the last day was a bonus. The accomodation was very good and the food excellent, however I personaly feel that this trip should be marked as moderate/difficult. At times the terrain was very rocky and the small paths of scree slippery you do need good walking boots and ankle strength.However I would recommend this trip to anyone who is a keen walker Turkey is a beautiful country with great weather , stunning scenery great food and lovely people. Its history ,old Lycian ruins etc.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Lycian Way, Fethiye, Faralya, Ge
Lycian Way, Fethiye, Faralya, Gey, Sidyma, Patara Beach, Kas, Aperlae, Dalaman
11% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Following the famed Aegean coastline, we discover Ottoman Istanbul, Gallipoli, Troy, ancient Ephesus and Pamukkale, finishing in coastal Marmaris - gateway to the Greek Islands. This 7 day holiday from Istanbul to the Mediterranean sea will give you an insight into the fascinating history, culture and landscapes of western Turkey.
The crew and tour leader were fantastic. There were many stops along the way for swimming. The history learned and walking through the many historic towns was illuminating.
The lower cabin is very very spacious and quiet.
I had an amazing week exploring stunning Croatia. It was a completely different holiday getting to sail instead of going over land. Travelling from place to place was part of the fun! Ivan was a fun and friendly skipper and he made us feel safe at all times.
Chill out
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Yacht Cabin, Hotel
Age Range
16-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Dubrovnik, Split
Dubrovnik, Split
32% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Have traveled with g @dventures 4 times.
Once with a group of 3 friends, twice with my cousin, and solo. Every time has been amazing.
Tour itineraries are accurate. Small groups have united quickly. I am very pleased with all of my adventures.
Sailing the Greek isles is a dream come true.
The captain and boat were above expectations
Freedom of itinerary made everyday a new experience
Keep up the excellent work!
Sailing, yachting and motor boating
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Yacht Cabin
Age Range
16-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Mykonos, Syros, Santorini, Ios
Mykonos, Syros, Santorini, Ios
27% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
This ten-day, private, guided tour takes you to some of the most beautiful castles of Transylvania and offers you a relaxing holiday in this enchanting land. Your journey starts from Bucharest, the capital city. From there you will head for Sibiu, the former cultural capital of Europe. See the magnificent Alba Carolina, a citadel decked in white, followed by a one-night-stay in Haller Castle. See the big fortified church in Biertan and visit Sighisoara, the only medieval citadel in Europe that is still inhabited, along with Peles and Bran castles
Learn more about the myths and legends surrounding these fairy tale castles and fortresses. Wander down the streets of medieval cities and take in the beautiful landscape of Romania along the way. For more details, scroll down to the itinerary section below.
This action-packed eight-day tour of Turkey offers an ideal overview to this diverse and beautiful country. You do not need to worry about flights, overland transport or hotel bookings, as all logistics are taken care of. Sit back and relax as you visit some of the most impressive sites in the country, including bustling cities, ancient ruins, natural wonders, and more.
Included in this itinerary are historic destinations like Ephesus and Hierapolis as well as famous natural landmarks like Pamukkale and Cappadocia.
The flights from and to Istanbul that we generally use are listed below:
From Istanbul: The flight leaves at around 07:00 to 07:30 am and arrives in Izmir between 08:00 and 08:30 am.
From Cappadocia: The flight leaves between 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm and arrives in Istanbul between 9:30 pm and 11:00 pm.
(Note: The schedule may vary as per flight availability)