Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Witness the unspoiled beauty of Sandwood Bay on this unforgettable walking trip. Renowned for its sweeping sands and dramatic cliffs, Sandwood Bay is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. The walk to the bay traverses wild moorland and offers a sense of isolation rarely found elsewhere. The unique selling point: access to one of Scotland’s most magnificent and remote beaches, promising both tranquility and breathtaking scenery for those who venture here.
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day odyssey through Turkey on our Crossroads of Turkey tour, a meticulously curated itinerary that seamlessly weaves together ancient cities, breathtaking coastlines, historical landmarks, and the vibrant tapestry of modern Turkish culture. Starting and ending in Istanbul, this comprehensive adventure promises travelers a diverse and enriching exploration of this remarkable country.
Your journey commences in the captivating metropolis of Istanbul, where East and West harmoniously converge. Immerse yourself in the city's cosmopolitan allure while marveling at its ancient treasures, providing a perfect introduction to Turkey's rich and storied heritage.
The tour takes a poignant turn as you visit the hallowed battlefields and memorials of Gallipoli, including the revered ANZAC Cove, paying homage to the historical significance of World War I.
As you venture south along the picturesque Mediterranean coast, you'll encounter the echoes of Turkey's ancient civilizations. Stops at the legendary site of Troy, the awe-inspiring ruins of Pergamum, and the remarkably preserved ancient city of Ephesus offer profound insights into the country's illustrious past.
Arriving in the charming coastal town of Kusadasi, you'll savor the delights of Turkish seaside life before embarking on an inland adventure. The otherworldly calcium travertines of Pamukkale beckon, inviting you for a rejuvenating dip in the thermal waters. The nearby ruins of Hieropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome.
The journey continues along the fabled Spice Route, leading you deeper into central Turkey. In Konya, you'll experience the mesmerizing art of Sufi whirling dervishes and celebrate the timeless poetry of Rumi, a profound cultural immersion.
Venturing further into the heart of Anatolia, the tour unveils the captivating landscape of Cappadocia, with a stop at the historic Sultanhani Caravanserai along the way. In Cappadocia, prepare to be enchanted by the surreal rock formations, ancient cave churches, subterranean cities, and the iconic 'fairy chimneys' that define this extraordinary region.
From Cappadocia, the adventure takes you to the majestic Mount Nemrut, where colossal statues of ancient gods and rulers stand sentinel over the surrounding landscape. Witness the breathtaking sunrise from this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a truly unforgettable experience.
Your journey then leads you to Sanliurfa, a city steeped in biblical history, believed to be the birthplace of Abraham. Explore its sacred Pool of Abraham and the fascinating archaeological site of Göbekli Tepe, considered one of the oldest temples in the world.
In nearby Harran, you'll encounter the unique beehive-shaped houses and ancient city walls that have stood for millennia. This evocative site offers a glimpse into life in ancient Mesopotamia.
Your next stop is Gaziantep, a culinary paradise renowned for its delectable cuisine and vibrant pistachio markets. Indulge in local specialties like baklava and kebabs while exploring the city's historic sites, including the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, home to stunning Roman mosaics.
As your extraordinary journey through Turkey draws to a close, you'll fly back to Istanbul, where you can extend your stay to further explore the city's myriad wonders or bid farewell to this enchanting land with cherished memories.
Throughout the tour, you'll be accommodated in a carefully curated selection of 3 to 4-star and boutique hotels, ensuring comfort and a taste of local hospitality.
This nine-day tour of Turkey explores the country's rich history and diverse landscapes, beginning in the vibrant city of Istanbul. The first day allows travellers to settle in before a welcome meeting. The tour then explores Istanbul's iconic landmarks, including the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Hippodrome, with an optional Bosphorus cruise in the afternoon. The following two days are spent in Cappadocia, taking in the unique "fairy chimney" rock formations, the Göreme Open Air Museum with its Byzantine frescoes, and an underground city. Visits to Pigeon Valley, Red Valley, Çavu?in village, and Avanos, known for its pottery, are also included, along with an optional Turkish folklore evening.
The tour then journeys to more historically significant sites. A drive to Adiyaman culminates in a breathtaking sunset view from Mount Nemrut, home to the ancient tombs and colossal statues of the Kingdom of Commagene. We then head to the ?anl?urfa region, with visits to the Atatürk Dam, the historic town of Harran with its mud-brick houses, and the sacred Pools of Abraham. A highlight of this portion of the trip is an exploration of Göbeklitepe, the world's oldest known monumental structure, a site that has revolutionised our understanding of early human history. The Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, K?z?lkoyun Necropolis, and the ?anl?urfa Archaeology Museum are also visited.
The final full day takes the group to Gaziantep, where a boat trip on the Euphrates offers a glimpse of the partially submerged ancient city of Halfeti. The day concludes with a visit to the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, showcasing stunning Roman-era mosaics rescued from the submerged city of Zeugma, followed by a flight back to Istanbul. The tour concludes with free time in Istanbul before airport transfers for departure.
If you'd like to combine your time in Eastern Turkey with time in the West of the country, why not consider our Crossroads of Turkey tour.
Ready to chase Jamie through time? Join us as we embark on an epic Outlander tour from Glasgow to the stunning locations that brought the tale of your favourite Outlander heroes to life! With a local guide sharing the fascinating history and stories behind these iconic sites, you’ll visit fan-favourite spots like Midhope Castle, the real Lallybroch; Doune Castle, home to Clan MacKenzie; and the dramatic Blackness Castle, standing in for Fort William.
Get ready to dive headfirst into Scotland’s wild side on this epic Loch Ness tour from Glasgow! We’re talking dramatic mountains, monster legends, and scenery so stunning you won’t want to blink. Whether you’re cruising Loch Ness looking for the elusive Nessie, soaking up the history of Glen Coe, or just trying to keep your jaw off the floor as we travel through the Highlands, this is a day packed with stories, sights, and pure Scottish vibes.
Step into the world of Jamie and Claire with a local guide who brings to life the dramatic history and stories that inspired Diana Gabaldon. On this Outlander tour from Glasgow, you’ll visit iconic filming locations, including Midhope Castle, the real-life Lallybroch; Doune Castle, the seat of Clan MacKenzie; and the striking Blackness Castle, which served as Fort William. With fascinating insights into the history and tales behind each site, this tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive Outlander experience in a day.
Enjoy a winter getaway in Europe like no other. This culture-filled trip takes in five European capitals: Vilnius in Lithuania, Riga in Latvia, Tallinn in Estonia, Helsinki in Finland, and Stockholm in Sweden. Along the way, soak up atmospheric old towns and visit unforgettable landmarks, while also learning about different traditions every time we cross a border. Join from late November to early January to experience the nostalgia-soaked Christmas markets – enjoying delicious local foods and soul-warming hot drinks under twinkling lights and sparkly decorations.
Winter adventureExplorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Imagine walking in the footsteps of Jamie and Claire from Outlander, with a local guide regaling all the gruesome history and stories which inspired Diana Gabaldon. We take you on a journey to some of the most famous Outlander filming locations such as Midhope Castle, the real-life Lallybroch, Doune Castle, the seat of Clan MacKenzie, and the impressive Blackness Castle, the setting for Fort William. Your guide will share the history behind each location, making this Outlander tour from Edinburgh the perfect journey for fans eager to step into Scotland’s storied past.
Imagine you came on this trip and saw the monster. Its gargantuan neck emerges from Loch Ness with an almighty ‘ROAR’! No doubt you’d take a picture and become an internet sensation.
Sadly, we can’t promise this’ll happen, but the trip will still be awesome. You will feast your eyes upon incredibly beautiful landscapes, including dramatic Glen Coe, while listening to our guide’s fascinating stories, on the way to Fort Augustus.
It’s the ultimate Loch Ness Monster tour from Edinburgh – mythical beasts not guaranteed, but epic views and legendary banter? You bet.
Enjoy a unique cruise on the Rhine River from Strasbourg to Amsterdam and immerse yourself in Christmas magic! You will discover the famous Christmas market in Strasbourg with local crafts, mulled wine and much more. Christmas Eve dinner will be followed by a most memorable Christmas Mass in Cologne before continuing to Holland.
Rich in symbols, emotions, and sensations, Christmas traditions in Provence bring meaning and color to the holiday. From Avignon to Aigues-Mortes, let yourself be enchanted by the magic of provincial Christmas markets. The Palace of the Popes in Avignon, an imposing Gothic fortress and a symbol of religious power in the 14th century; Les Baux-de-Provence, whose citadel overlooks natural sites of extraordinary beauty, and its santons museum with its traditional Provençal nativity scene; or Aigues-Mortes, where you can taste fougasse, a treat once reserved for the Christmas season.
CruiseExplorer
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Avignon, Occitanie, Tarascon, Le
Avignon, Occitanie, Tarascon, Les Baux & Arles, Aigues-Mortes
Embark on a unique cruise along the Seine and celebrate Christmas. Discover Rouen, a medieval and well-preserved city where you can attend Christmas Mass. We'll then take you to Honfleur that will immerse you in the history of France: city of painters, its beautiful streets and its Old Basin will not fail to charm you.
Enjoy a magical cruise along the Loire and discover medieval castles and the Escal'Atlantic. Explore Saint-Nazaire where you can admire the shipyard where the Queen Mary II was built. Discover the magic of the Chateaux of the Loire and visit Nantes and its historical treasures. You will have the option to attend the Christmas Mass in Ancenis and celebrate Christmas on the Loire in a friendly and festive atmosphere.
CruiseExplorer
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Val de Loire, Saint-Nazaire, Nan
Val de Loire, Saint-Nazaire, Nantes, Ancenis, Angers, Pays de la Loire
Cruise along the Rhine and explore the black forest, a land where Christmas traditions are deeply rooted in history. Stroll through the aisles of the Christmas markets, beautifully illuminated and brimming with the gourmet fragrances of mulled wine and gingerbread. You will also be seduced by the heart-warming atmosphere in Colmar, a city of art and history with an exceptional heritage: join us for a memorable journey full of magical discoveries!
