Turkish Odyssey

Welcome to Istanbul! You will be transferred to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours, free to explore.

After breakfast, you enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace (including Hagia Irene and the Harem) and the Hippodrome.
Cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia in the afternoon with an optional 'Half day Bosphorus cruise'.

One of the most emotionally touching places in Turkey, today we visit the WWI Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, original trenches and tunnels.

Depart from Çanakkale and head towards Troy, where we will explore the ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the new, award-winning Troy Museum. We continue on to the old village of Behramkale, a picturesque settlement with stone houses and narrow streets that offer a glimpse into traditional Turkish village life. You will have time to explore the village, take in the beautiful scenery, and perhaps enjoy a cup of Turkish tea or coffee at a local café. From Behramkale, we head south to Kuşadası.

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre before exploring the Ephesus Archaeology Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey, and at the carpet village, we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value.

This morning we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods before heading to the magnificent white calcium terraces, known as Travertines, in Pamukkale where we also tour the ancient city of Hierapolis. Take a dip, amongst ancient columns, in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic powers.

After breakfast we head for the resort town of Antalya, stopping along the way to visit isit the Laodicea which was the chief city of the Lycus River Valley region. The full name of the city was Laodicea ad Lyceum (Laodicea on the Lycus). The city was originally known as Diospolis ("the City of Zeus"). The Greek deity considered to be the greatest of the Olympian gods. Then, we will head to resort town, Antalya. We will visit the Antalya Necropol Museum, which offers fascinating insights into ancient burial practices and showcases artifacts from various historical periods.

Full day tour of the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos. In Aspendos, you can see the Roman Theatre built in the 2nd century and seating 15,000 people. Side is one of the best classical sites in Turkey with its Temple of Apollo and ancient ruins.

Today we travel to Cappadocia, through the central part of the country, visiting Sultanhani Caravansary and the Mevlana museum in Konya along the way.

This morning, we will visit Pigeon Valley and Red Valley, followed by a stop at Çavuşin Village. Later, we’ll head to Avanos, a charming town famous for its hand-made pottery, where we’ll see a local pottery demonstration. In the afternoon, marvel at Cappadocia’s unique lunar landscape as we explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, admire the fairy chimneys, and discover the fascinating multi-level chambers of an underground city.

Depart from Cappadocia in the morning and enjoy a scenic drive through central Anatolia. En route, stop at Hattusas, the ancient capital of the Hittite Empire, to explore its impressive ruins, including monumental gates and temples that reveal the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the visit, continue your journey north toward Amasya, a picturesque city nestled in a narrow valley along the Yeşilırmak River. Known for its Ottoman-era wooden houses and dramatic rock tombs carved into the cliffs, Amasya offers a unique blend of history and charm.

Begin the day exploring Amasya’s charming town center, strolling along the Yeşilırmak River to admire its iconic Ottoman houses and picturesque views. Visit the elegant Hazeranlar Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of 19th-century Ottoman architecture, and enjoy a short riverside walk to soak in the tranquil atmosphere. After this cultural experience, depart Amasya in the late morning and drive through scenic landscapes toward Kastamonu, a historic city known for its traditional wooden houses and rich heritage. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your hotel for an overnight stay, with time to relax or explore the local surroundings at leisure.

Begin your morning exploring Kastamonu’s cultural treasures, starting with Kastamonu Castle for sweeping city views, followed by Nasrullah Mosque and Square, and the Liva Pasha Mansion Ethnography Museum to experience Ottoman heritage. Stroll through charming streets lined with historic wooden houses before departing late morning. En route to Safranbolu, pause at the spectacular Glass Viewing Platform overlooking the canyon—a perfect spot for breathtaking photos and a memorable experience. Continue to Yörük Village, a traditional settlement where you can admire authentic Ottoman-era houses and experience rural life. After this cultural stop, proceed to Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Ottoman architecture and cobblestone streets.

Begin the day exploring Safranbolu’s historic town center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its Ottoman architecture. Visit the impressive Cinci Han and Cinci Hammam, once vital stops for Silk Road travelers, and continue to the Kaymakamlar Museum House, showcasing traditional Ottoman life. Admire the elegant Izzet Mehmet Pasha Mosque and take in panoramic views from the iconic Clock Tower, a landmark overlooking the charming streets below. In the afternoon, depart for Amasra, a picturesque Black Sea village known for its stunning coastal views and fresh seafood. Enjoy a short walking tour and photo stop before returning to Safranbolu.

Depart Safranbolu in the morning and travel west toward Istanbul, enjoying the scenic landscapes of northern Turkey. En route, stop at the serene Abant Lake, a natural gem surrounded by lush pine forests and rolling hills. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and capture stunning photos of this tranquil setting. Guests may also enjoy a quick coffee or tea at a lakeside café before continuing the journey. After this refreshing break, resume the drive to Istanbul.

Departure airport transfer in Istanbul and our tour concludes.