Expedition Details

Poised at the crossroads between East and West, Turkey is graced with a stunning coastline; picturesque villages; and a unique cultural legacy shaped by the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires. Our journey begins in enchanting Istanbul. Experience the otherworldly moonscape of Cappadocia, stroll through ancient Ephesus, and then soak up the rhythms of everyday life as you explore the Aegean coast from Izmir to Bodrum.

---

Trip Highlights

• Explore Cappadocia's surreal "fairy chimneys" and the mazelike underground city of Kaymakli.
• Examine incredible archaeological finds, from the temples of Ephesus to the underwater treasures of the Aegean.
• Enjoy an insider's perspective on the historic sights and lively markets of Istanbul.
• Sail the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea aboard a private gulet, a traditional wooden yacht.

---

Itinerary - 11 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Istanbul, Turkey

Depart on an overnight flight to Istanbul, the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. After time to get settled this afternoon, gather for a welcome dinner.
Richmond Hotel (D)

Day 3 — Istanbul

Delve into this fabulous city today. Visit the iconic Hagia Sofia, built as a church by Emperor Justinian in the sixth century and converted to a mosque some 900 years later. Here, beneath the minarets and buttresses added by the Ottomans, discover the hidden mosaics of the original Byzantine structure. Then venture into the ancient Underground Cistern, also known as the Sunken Palace, an important water source during the Byzantine era. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet I, known as the Blue Mosque for the blue Iznik tiles that line its interior. Continue to the Hippodrome, the site of coronations and chariot races. Then, meander through the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest covered marketplaces in the world.
Richmond Hotel (B,L)

Day 4 — Istanbul

Set out for the Topkapı Palace, the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans for four centuries. After lunch, visit the Ottoman imperial Suleymaniye Mosque. Then, examine a vast array of textiles and artifacts at the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Art. Later, enjoy a sunset Bosporus cruise.
Richmond Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Kayseri/Cappadocia

Explore Rüstem Pasha Mosque, a treasure trove of exquisite Iznik tiles, and visit the spice market on the way to the airport. Fly to Kayseri and continue overland to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cappadocia. This surreal volcanic moonscape, whittled into unique formations by wind and rain over millions of years, is characterized by clusters of natural stone pillars and cones known as fairy chimneys. In the third century, Christians fleeing Roman persecution carved churches and entire villages into niches in the tuff stone. This afternoon, set out on an easy hike through Cappadocia’s Red Valley, and later, enjoy a specially arranged dinner in a private home.
Hotel CaveDeluxe (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Cappadocia

Rise before dawn for an optional hot-air balloon ride over this unique landscape. Then tour the Göreme Open Air Museum, a vast monastic complex of frescoed medieval cave churches cut into the tuff. Visit the eight-story-deep underground city of Kaymakli, dating back to the era of the Hittites. This afternoon, drive to Pasabag, formerly known as Monks' Valley, to see some of the most diverse fairy chimneys up close. Visit a local pottery studio and later, take in a performance of whirling dervishes--mystical Sufi dancers who spin themselves into a spiritual trance. Following the performance, enjoy a rare opportunity to sit down with one of the dervishes for a conversation about his faith and practice.
Hotel CaveDeluxe (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Cappadocia/Izmir

This morning, take advantage of free time to explore on your own. Then transfer back to Kayseri for a flight to Izmir. Settle into our hotel overlooking the Kordon promenade on the Aegean Sea.
Swissôtel Grand Efes (B)

Day 8 — Ephesus/Sirince/Bodrum

Spend the day in Ephesus, once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Explore one of the best preserved Greco-Roman cities, from its Great Theater and Terrace Houses to its elaborate water systems and beautiful mosaics. Visit the house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have lived during her final years. Later, continue to Sirince, a lovely hillside village where Ottoman houses are nestled against a backdrop of vineyards and olive groves. Wander the cobblestoned lanes, stopping in at wineries to sample local vintages. Travel to the charming port town of Bodrum and settle into our hotel.
The Marmara Bodrum (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Bodrum

Enjoy a day on the water gliding along the spectacular Aegean coast in a privately chartered gulet, a traditional wooden sailing yacht. Swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear water or simply relax on deck, taking in the stunning views. Sail back to Bodrum in the late afternoon. Tonight, gather for a festive farewell dinner.
The Marmara Bodrum (B,L,D)

Day 10 — Bodrum/Istanbul

Discover the Castle of St. Peter, a 15th-century crusader fortress that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Here, meet the museum director who will lead a private tour of the museum’s impressive collection of items excavated from ancient shipwrecks found along the Turkish coast. Transfer to the airport for an afternoon flight back to Istanbul. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of Istanbul’s fine restaurants.
Richmond Hotel (B,L)

Day 11 — Istanbul/U.S.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
(B)

• Print this page
• Send to a friend
• Ask a question about this trip