A wonderful introduction to Turkey, this 8 day tour takes in many of the ancient sites. From the thriving city of Istanbul with a full day tour included, you will move on to explore the WWi battlefields of Gallipoli and the ancient historical sites of Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus and Pamukkale.
NOTE: On 2025 departures the following visits will be replaced:
Ancient Pergamum - Replaced with a visit to Assos.
Discover a fascinating region of stunning natural beauty and diverse cultural heritage in exquisite comfort and style.
Uncover the top highlights of the Balkans throughout 7 beautiful countries including Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia & Hercegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Macedonia. Learn about the countless struggles which have shaped the Balkan ‘powder keg’ in history. Soak in gorgeous monuments and impressive cities as well as spectacular nature. Embrace the colourful cultures and delicious local cuisine while uncovering all the must-see sights from each country.
A tour of 8 people plus our guide and driver, a perfect number for our van. A most enjoyable 2 weeks seeing the highlights of Turkey with some fine company My expectations were pleasantly met as to the variety of our itinerary be it mosques, historical sites, Greek/Roman/Underground cities, temples, ruins, natural attractions. I felt at times we were rushed a little through some Greek/Roman cities however I understand we all move at a different pace to take in these wonders, mine perhaps being slower The hotels were a mix of mainly 3 star with the occasional 4 star and all were suitable for a quiet nights rest. The breakfasts and occasional dinner on offer did vary in quality but I personally found them to be fine. I opted for the single-supplement accommodation however it was random as to whether I was given a room with 2 single beds or 1 double bed (preferable), there was no option given at check-in so that was disappointing. I also chose the tour lunch pack but in hindsight there was no need as eating choices were abundant for our luncheons I was pleased I opted for the excursion to Troy and Gallipoli which included a visit to the ancient site of Pergamon en-route, and I considered the hotel in Canakkale the best hotel of the trip I would most certainly recommend Eskapas and this tour for some wonderful lifetime memories of Turkey
This 8-day Turkey tour takes you from bustling Istanbul to the Mediterranean at Kusadasi and then inland to the beautiful scenery of Cappadocia. The itinerary is designed to combine some of Turkey's classic highlights in a week's visit, balancing bustling cities, beautiful scenery, ancient ruins and modern Turkey. You'll stay in a mix of 4-star and boutique style properties along the way.
Starting in Istanbul, the beating heart of Turkey and historically a vitally important connecting point between the continents of Europe and Asia, we visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, Spice Bazaar, Hippodrome and take a cruise on the Bosphorus before flying south to the Mediterranean coast at Kusadasi. We have two nights here, and a tour to the nearby ruins at Ephesus. One of the best preserved ancient Greek & Roman sites in the whole of the Mediterranean region, this is a spectacular site with a fascinating history. We'll also visit a village famous for producing local fruit wines, and learn about the importance of carpet making in Turkey. Our next stop is at the stepped calcium travertines and hot pools at Pamukkale, before we continue into the centre of Turkey along the ancient Spice Route, passing old caravanserais and visiting the Mervlana museum at Konya on the way. This brings us to picturesque landscape of Cappadocia where we visit the strange rock formations, cave chuches and 'fairy chimneys' in the Goreme valley and venture down into one of the labarynthine underground cities built by Christians centuries ago to hide from persecution. The tour then finishes with a drive (or optional flight) via Ankara back to Istanbul where extra nights are available to spend more time exploring the city.
Meet the colourful cultures and people of the marvellous Balkans.
Adventure through the ‘Powder Keg’ of Europe in exquisite style over 12 days and 7 countries. Soak in the incredible natural beauty and unparalleled cultural diversity of the stunning Balkans. From the vibrant streets of Sofia and Belgrade to the serenity of Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania, while witnessing the gorgeous shift of the landscape. Connect with the authentic culture while discovering medieval ramparts, quaint villages and unforgettable highlights on the Best of Balkans.
Uncover the astounding natural and cultural treasures of the Balkans on an 11-day premium adventure.
Embark on an exquisite journey from Sofia, covering all the highlights of a fascinating region through 7 countries. Embrace the unique culture of each sight visited from Belgrade to Sarajevo, Mostar, Tirana and Skopje, whilst soaking in the gorgeous nature. Discover the incredible medieval towns of Dubrovnik and Kotor, as well as wonderful hidden gems along the path.
I enjoyed the variety of places we visited. I especially liked having a local guide at each location to learn about the history and culture of each place. The only regret for me was that we couldn’t spend more time in Lake Bled. I liked that we were able to take the boats over to the island, but I would have also enjoyed seeing a view of the lake from a higher vantage point to be able to see the entire lake with the island in the middle. Otherwise, I was fully pleased with the itinerary of the tour.
From storied cities to glittering coastlines, uncover the best of Italy, Slovenia and Croatia on a 23-day Premium adventure. Travel through the rustic heart of Tuscany, explore the wonders of Venice, Pisa’s Leaning Tower and visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World in Rome. Discover Lake Bled, the underground world of the Postojna Caves and the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park. Take in ancient riches on Korcula island and stroll the legendary streets of Dubrovnik. Throw in expert local leaders, plenty of sunshine and some of Europe’s best food and you have an adventure to remember.
Discover a piece of paradise as you dive into the best of Slovenia and Croatia on a 16-day Premium adventure. Explore the glittering canals of Venice, the still waters of Lake Bled, the underground world of the Postojna Caves and the caves and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Go beneath the surface of Split and Dubrovnik, get away from the modern world and in with the locals and soak up ancient riches on the historic island of Korcula. From sun-soaked beaches to fantastic local wine, you’re never far from a good time on the Adriatic coast.
Immerse yourself in four unforgettable countries on a 30-day Premium journey. Go deep into the ancient heart of Turkey, then continue to the green hillsides and snow-capped mountains of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. Explore lands filled with centuries of rich history and where ancient traditions blend with modern influences. Stay in rooms carved from stones in a historic hotel and get a taste of Turkey in an Exclusive Experience cooking class. Travel with expert local leaders, make local friends along the way and discover there’s so much more to each destination than what meets the eye.
Embrace the cultural, culinary and natural delights of Italy, Slovenia and Croatia on a 16-day Premium adventure. Travel through the rustic heart of Tuscany, explore the wonders of Venice’s Piazza San Marco and Pisa’s Leaning Tower and visit the home of a Nobleman in Rome with an expert local leader. Discover the waters of Lake Bled and the underground world of the Postojna Caves. Ride the cable car up Mt Vogel for views over Lake Bohinj and appreciate the caves and waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Coloured by sunshine and flavoured with local wine, this pocket of Europe is a joy to explore.
From Ottoman Istanbul, the battlefields of Gallipoli, Roman ruins, the Aegean Coast and the stunning mineral pools of Pamukkale, to the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Nile Cruising in Egypt. Take in the best of Egypt and Turkey in 16 days.
Embark on a 10-day journey through Turkey, beginning and ending in Istanbul. Explore the Old City’s Ottoman and Byzantine past before heading to Gallipoli’s poignant WW1 sites. Step into legend at Troy, marvel at ancient Ephesus, and bathe in the dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale. In surreal Cappadocia, discover cave dwellings, underground cities and fairy chimneys, with the chance to take a magical hot air balloon ride. From bustling bazaars to ancient ruins and natural wonders, this tour offers a rich mix of history, landscapes and unforgettable Turkish hospitality.