This is a subtly evocative tour; one that immerses the traveller in atmosphere: in the beauty and history of local culture and the rich and varied landscapes with which Turkey is blessed with. It is a tour that seeks to stimulate the imagination rather than cram it with textbook detail, a tour that aims to show you the best of Turkey from its glossy highlights to its quirky soul.

Day 01 Istanbul: You arrive in Istanbul and transferred to your hotel. A relaxed briefing followed by a short orientation stroll to soak up the atmosphere of the city where Europe meets Asia. Overnight in Istanbul

Day 02 Istanbul: The classics. A guided walking tour of Istanbul exploring its Byzantine and Ottoman treasures. Visit the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia, the Roman Hippodrome and the magnificent Topkapi Palace, offering a true insight into the secret life of the Ottoman Empire. Try a Turkish bath in the evening. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 03 Istanbul to Assos: Set course for the enchanting hilltop village of Assos. En route there is an opportunity to visit Gallipoli/Anzac Cove. Lunch in Tekirdag, home of the best meatballs in Turkey. Arrive in Assos and watch the sunset at the magical temple of Athena. Overnight in Assos.

Day 04 Assos to Pamukkale: Set course for Pamukkale. Lunch in Bergama. Ancient Pergamon, and time to explore its impressive ruins. Arrive in Pamukkale and explore the calcium pools and Roman ruins. Overnight in Pamukkale. Note: Some clients may prefer to visit Ephesus rather than Bergama.

Day 05 Pamukkale to Kas: Drive to Kas via Saklikent Gorge and Patara beach. Stop for lunch at Saklikent and trek along the stunning gorge. If time allows we then explore the beach and ruins of Patara, the longest sandy beach in Turkey. Continue to Kas. Dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants. Overnight in Kas.

Day 06 Kas. Free day in Kas: Explore this wonderful little harbour town, with its narrow cobbled streets, flower-decked balconies and charming cafes at your own pace. Kas is an excellent base for optional activities, such as scuba diving, paragliding or boat tours. Overnight in Kas.

Day 07 Kas to Olympos/Cirali: Drive to Olympos. In the morning we suggest a boat trip to Kekova island, exploring the sunken city and the picturesque village of Simena. (option) A short stop in Demre/Myra to visit the church of St Nicholas (the original Santa Claus), the impressive Lycian rock tombs and the Roman theatre. Overnight in Olympos/Cirali.

Day 08 Olympos/Cirali: A free day in Olympos. The beach here is simply magical: almost empty and stretching in to the distance, so you may just want to relax on its sands. There are also wonderful walks in the forest and mountains overlooking the beach. You may want to explore the ruins of Olympos hidden away in the forest. At night a visit to Chimaera (The Eternal Flame). Overnight in Olympos/Cirali.

Day 09 Olympos to Konya: Drive to Konya. Dramatic mountain scenery into the heart of Turkey. A brief stop at Aspendos to visit the Roman theatre. Konya is the spiritual home of Whirling Dervishes and of the great mystic philosopher Rumi. Visit the Mevlana museum. Overnight in Konya.

Day 10 Konya to Cappadocia: Set course for Cappadocia across the vast central plains. Visit Sultanhani Caravanserai. Continue to Cappadocia and visit Ihlara Valley. Descend into the Ihlara Canyon and hike along the river. A day of truly stunning, timeless landscapes. Overnight in the beautiful town of Goreme.

Day 11 Cappadocia The highlights: Visit the open air museum at Zelve, see the famous pottery at Avanos, climb the citadel of Uchisar, explore the unique and captivating lunar landscapes, rock formations, caves and fairy chimneys. Overnight in Goreme.

Day 12 Cappadocia: A free day in Goreme. Explore this amazing village and its surroundings at your own pace. Be sure to have plenty of film in your camera. You may want to try hot air ballooning. Overnight in Goreme.

Day 13 Cappadocia to Safranbolu: Set course for the charming town of Safranbolu passing the great salt lake. See the old Ottoman houses tucked away in the hills, wonder through the cobbled streets and delight in the centuries old crafts of the region. Overnight in Safranbolu.

Day 14 Safranbolu to Istanbul: Set a leisurely course back to Istanbul along scenic mountain routes. There is an opportunity to have lunch in the charming old village of Yoruk Koy. Evening at leisure

Day 15 Istanbul. Free day: Lose yourself in the grand bazaar, a maze of over 4000 shops. Immerse yourself in the smells and tastes of the spice bazaar. A relaxed boat tour of the Bosphoros in the afternoon, then an evening at leisure. Overnight at Istanbul.

Day 16. Tour ends after breakfast: Transfer to hotel.

Included in price:

All accommodation, private transportation, driver, guide, meals except on ‘free days’, airport transfers and entrance fees into heritage sites with a couple exceptions.

Not included in price:

International flights, meals on free days and optional activities, such as hot air ballooning, scuba diving and Whirling Dervishes Ceremony.

Cultural Tour prices based on per person

Twin Occupancy: £1550pp

Single Occupancy: £1700pp