Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Ephesus & Cappadocia

Upon arriving in Istanbul, a city where two continents meet, we head to the luxurious Mövenpick Hotel Istanbul Golden Horn and check in to our accommodations with time to unwind and refresh after the trek. Later, we savor a delicious Welcome Dinner, our first taste of the region’s bold culinary traditions. As we get to know fellow travelers, the energy of this historic corner of the country sets the tone for the remarkable experiences ahead.

Today, we make our way to the Topkapi Palace Museum, where the legacy of numerous Ottoman sultans lives on. Constructed in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, this complex offers a glimpse into royal life with ornate chambers, opulent courtyards, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait. Following this, we indulge in a leisurely lunch before pressing on to the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a Byzantine masterpiece famous for its soaring domes and its evolution from cathedral to mosque to museum. Next, we visit the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, often called the “Iron Church” for its cast-iron construction. From here, we return to the hotel to freshen up and delight in local cuisine over dinner before experiencing the enchanting ritual of the Whirling Dervishes.

This morning, we bid farewell to Istanbul and travel to Ankara, the capital of Turkey. After lunch at leisure, we continue to Anitkabir, the mausoleum of the founder of the Republic of Turkey: Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Marvel at Peace Park and the trees planted from all over the world as a tribute to his message of peace and unity. We then head to the unforgettable Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, nestled in beautifully restored Ottoman buildings and featuring artifacts that encapsulate the history of Anatolia. After checking into our accommodations at the elegant Divan Ankara, we have time to relax and enjoy the evening at our own pace, soaking in the welcoming atmosphere of the city.

After breakfast in Ankara, we’re off to discover the otherworldly views of Cappadocia, traveling through Anatolia as the landscape transforms into valleys formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. We start at Özkonak Underground City, a subterranean refuge filled with multi-level networks of rooms, ventilation systems, and tunnels built to protect early inhabitants from Byzantine-era invasions. Following this, we savor a traditional, home-hosted lunch before going to see a carpet atelier to learn about the intricate craftsmanship behind Turkey’s handwoven textiles. This evening, we settle into our accommodations at the serene Alden Hotel Cappadocia.

Up, up, and away! Our day begins with an optional early-morning hot air balloon ride (weather permitting), offering a stunning look at the region’s striking topography. From there, our morning is spent discovering the region’s iconic volcanic landscapes with an excursion to the Devrent Valley, often called Imagination Valley. Known for its unique rock formations, the site features a whimsical lunar terrain. From here, we proceed to Paşabağ, a small valley defined by its dreamy fairy chimneys. Gaze at surreal stone pillars shaped by years of erosion and wind. Afterwards, we explore the captivating Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO-listed complex of rock-cut churches and chapels adorned with ancient frescoes that bring to life the spiritual legacy of Byzantine monks. We then break for lunch at leisure before visiting a traditional pottery workshop in Avanos. Witness artisans demonstrate age-old techniques still used to shape and decorate clay from the banks of the Kızılırmak River. This afternoon, we return to our accommodations to unwind before experiencing an evening of Turkish cuisine, music, and dance.

Today, we depart for Konya, traveling through the vast landscapes of central Anatolia. On the way, we stop at the distinctive Sultan Han Caravanserai, once a resting place for traders along the Silk Road. Initially built in 1229, it is the largest Seljuk caravanserai in Turkey. Afterwards, we visit the beautiful Mevlana Museum, the former dervish lodge of the Mevlevi Order and the resting place of the poet Rumi. Intricate tilework and sacred artifacts offer insight into his enduring philosophy of unity and love. We enjoy lunch at leisure in Konya before journeying onwards to Antalya. After checking into our accommodations, the day concludes with dinner in the city.

This morning, we explore the rich heritage of the Mediterranean coast. We start at Perge Ancient City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been inhabited since the Early Bronze Age. Known for its advanced design, the city features grand colonnaded streets, sprawling baths, and a breathtaking stadium. Next, we head to the historical Aspendos Theatre, one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Built between 160-180 AD, its towering stone seating and remarkable acoustics highlight the engineering brilliance of the ancient empire. Our next stop after this is the idyllic town of Side, a former Greek settlement turned Roman trading hub. Admire the atmospheric ruins and the iconic seaside columns of the Temple of Apollo. Later, we return to Antalya in time to relax and recharge at our hotel before gathering for dinner.

After breakfast, we’re off to one of Turkey’s most extraordinary archaeological and natural wonders: the UNESCO-listed site of Hierapolis and Pamukkale. Here, gleaming white terraces are actively formed by mineral-rich thermal waters, creating a surreal and ever-changing landscape beneath the ruins of the once-thriving Greco-Roman spa city. While wandering through the timeworn remains of Hierapolis Ancient City, watch for its otherworldly baths and the grand theater. After lunch at leisure, we move on to the tranquil Aegean coast, arriving in Kuşadası by evening and checking into our upscale accommodations at the Elite World Kuşadası. The day concludes with dinner at the hotel, offering time to unwind after an expedition through one of the most culturally rich regions of Anatolia.

Our morning begins with a visit to the storied ruins of Ephesus Ancient City, a treasured UNESCO World Heritage landmark. Once one of the most important cities of the Mediterranean, its grand columns, marble streets, and monumental façades speak to the sophistication of Roman urban life. We then make our way to the sacred House of the Virgin Mary, a revered pilgrimage site discovered in the 19th century. While here, we embrace the stillness and peaceful atmosphere of contemplation surrounded by forested hills. Afterwards, we trek into the rustic hillside village of Şirince. We enjoy lunch on our own before going to a local winery to sample regional wines and learn about the area’s traditional production methods. Later, we return to our accommodations in Kuşadası and have an evening at leisure.

Today, we leave for Bergama to see the widely recognized Asclepieion of Pergamon, a historic healing temple dedicated to the Greek god of medicine. The ancient sanctuary combined hydrotherapy and medicine, using methods such as dream interpretation, herbal remedies, as well as water and mud baths. Following time for lunch at leisure, we visit a local olive oil museum to learn about one of the region’s longstanding agricultural traditions. Later, we head to the Ancient City of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 4,000 years of layered history. Walking through its ancient ruins, we gain insight into one of the world’s most enduring cultural legacies before arriving in Çanakkale. We check in to our comfortable accommodations and then gather for a delicious dinner.

Our trip continues with a ferry ride across the Dardanelles Strait, a notable waterway connecting Asia and Europe, and a visit to the storied battlefields of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Known as a site of profound historical significance, the peninsula’s poignant memorials and battlefields commemorate the events of World War I, offering a compelling look at one of the most pivotal moments of 20th-century history. Next, we head out on a picturesque drive to Tekirdağ and take time for a leisurely lunch before traveling to Istanbul. This evening, we check into the contemporary Mövenpick Hotel Istanbul Golden Horn and delight in an exquisite dinner. The rest of the night is at your leisure to explore the city where our adventure began.

We begin our day at the stunning Sultan Ahmed Mosque, fondly called the Blue Mosque. An enduring symbol of Ottoman architecture built between 1609 and 1617, its cascading domes, soaring minarets, and breathtaking interior turn every glimpse into a moment worth remembering. We then make our way to the waterfront to set sail on an unforgettable Bosphorus cruise. While gliding between Asia and Europe, we take in astonishing views of historic fortresses, grand palaces, and elegant homes from the legendary strait. Afterwards, take time at leisure to grab a bite to eat and discover more of Istanbul. Pop into local shops, wander through vibrant neighborhoods, and embrace the city’s inviting atmosphere! Later, we head back to the hotel to freshen up before getting together for a reflective Farewell Dinner — a fitting conclusion to our journey through Turkey’s gorgeous landscapes and rich history.

We return home today with wonderful memories of our time in Turkey.