Join Us:
Explore Turkey’s Ancient Wonders & Coastal Paradises
Booking for June 19-29, 2025
Day 1
International flight from your home city to Istanbul (IST), Turkey. Note: Most Flights leaving the United States depart in the evening and arrive in Turkey the following day.
June 18th - Depart Home Town
Day 2
Arrive at the newly built Istanbul airport, where you will take your own transportation to the hotel in the Sultanahmet neighborhood of Istanbul. If multiple people arrive at the same time, group transportation will be arranged.
June 19th - Istanbul
Day 3
Welcome to the first official day of your Istanbul adventure! Today, we'll embark on a journey to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks, all conveniently located within walking distance from your hotel. Immerse yourself in the historical grandeur of Hagia Sophia, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Blue Mosque, and step back in time at the ancient Hippodrome. To cap off the day, we'll set sail on a breathtaking sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, offering you a unique perspective of Istanbul's enchanting skyline. With ample free time woven into your itinerary, you'll be free to discover the city's hidden gems at your own pace, both morning and afternoon.
June 20th - Istanbul
Day 4
We wake to discover the grandeur of the Sultan's home, Topkapi Palace, a jewel in the heart of historic Istanbul. As the former residence of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, Topkapi Palace offers an unparalleled glimpse into the opulent lifestyles and governance of one of history's most powerful empires. You'll be mesmerized by the Imperial Treasures, like the spellbinding 86-carat Spoonmaker's Diamond, and revered relics like bones attributed to St. John the Baptist and strands from Prophet Muhammad's beard. The day continues as we weave through the aromatic corridors of the Egyptian Spice Market, hunting for local delicacies and unique finds. Our journey culminates in the warmth of a local family's Tekka, where traditional music and dance performances offer an intimate glimse into the heart of Turkish culture.
June 21st - Istanbul
Day 5
Today, we fly from Istanbul to Izmir, beginning our journey along Turkey’s breathtaking Mediterranean coast. With 5,000 years of history, ties to Homer, and a legacy shaped by Alexander the Great, Izmir seamlessly blends ancient heritage with modern energy.
After a day of travel, we will relax with a waterfront stroll, enjoy a fresh fish dinner by the sea, or embark on an optional food tour. This peaceful evening prepares us for the coastal adventures ahead.
June 22nd Istanbul to Izmir
Leaving Izmir, this scenic drive offers not only breathtaking views but also a dive into the depths of history. Our highlight stop is Ephesus, an archaeological marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological treasures, offering a window into the daily workings of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Here, you'll encounter the majestic Temple of Artemis, the grand Library of Celsus, and the Great Theater, capable of hosting 24,000 spectators. Walking through its ancient streets, you’ll feel the echoes of history from a city central to trade, culture, and early Christianity.
We will continue the day with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary. It provides a peaceful counterpoint to the grandeur of Ephesus. Believed to be Mary’s final home, this serene chapel nestled in the hills offers a moment of reflection and tranquility.
June 23rd - Ephesus
Day 6
Our journey continues with a scenic bus ride from Izmir to the captivating region of Pamukkale, renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders. Known as the “Cotton Castle,” Pamukkale’s iconic white travertine terraces, filled with warm mineral-rich waters, create a surreal and unforgettable landscape.
During our visit, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural pools and experience Cleopatra’s Antique Pool, an effervescent thermal spring nestled among ancient Roman columns. With water at a comfortable 97°F (36°C), it’s renowned for its therapeutic properties and unique champagne-like bubbles. Whether floating in the terraced pools or soaking in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by history, Pamukkale offers a day of relaxation and awe-inspiring beauty.
June 24th - Pamukkale
Day 7
Following a hearty traditional Turkish breakfast, we journey to the glamorous town of Bodrum, a sparkling jewel of the Turkish Riviera. Located just across the Aegean Sea from famous Greek isles like Mykonos, Bodrum offers a perfect blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty. A favorite among international and Turkish travelers alike, this Mediterranean hotspot exudes a vibrant yet relaxed charm that’s impossible to resist.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Relax by the pool, soak up the sun on pristine beaches, or meander through Bodrum’s cobblestone streets, where boutique shops, cozy cafes, and artisan stalls await discovery. In the evening, we’ll dive into Bodrum’s captivating culinary scene, recently elevated to the global stage with its first Michelin guide in 2023. From elegant fine dining to family-run eateries serving unforgettable traditional dishes, every bite celebrates the rich flavors of Turkey.
June 25th - Pamukale to Bodrum
Day 8
Day 9
As we ease into Bodrum's relaxed pace, our journey embraces a more leisurely rhythm, inviting you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of this celebrated beach town. An boat cruise around the peninsula’s hidden bays, complete with lunch, snorkeling, mineral baths, and swimming, is planned for those seeking adventure on the water. Alternatively, you can bask on the beach, enjoy a round of golf, explore the deep with a SCUBA trip, or savor the laid-back lifestyle Bodrum is known for.
While we have arranged group activities to enrich your experience, all activities during our time in Bodrum are entirely optional. This flexibility ensures you can explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, or unwind as you see fit.
June 26th - Bodrum
Day 10
As our journey nears its conclusion, your time in Bodrum is yours to shape. Whether you seek relaxation, exploration, or a mix of both, we’ve designed a flexible itinerary to help you fully experience the beauty and allure of this coastal gem.
We’ll visit the historic Bodrum Castle, home to the Underwater Archaeology Museum. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views, fascinating exhibits, and a rich connection to the region's history. With the castle visit taking just 2–3 hours, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. The evening will culminate with a final group dinner at a harbor-side fish restaurant, where you can savor freshly grilled seafood while soaking in the stunning marina views.
Some Optional Activities to consider:
Relax on pristine beaches, basking in the Mediterranean sun.
Stroll through Bodrum’s old town, browsing for handmade leather sandals, pestemal towels, or artisanal soaps.
Join a culinary course to learn classic Turkish dishes like meze, kebabs, and baklava, with a visit to a farmers' market.
Play a round of golf at one of Bodrum’s scenic courses.
With this flexible schedule, you can make your final days on the Turkish coast as memorable and personal as the journey itself.
June 27th - Bodrum
Day 11
On our final full day, we’ll journey from the coastal beauty of Bodrum back to Istanbul’s northern edge, near the Black Sea. A domestic flight will return us to Istanbul, where we’ll spend one last evening together. For those with tight schedules, there’s an option to fly directly from Bodrum to Istanbul’s airport and continue with your international departure, subject to flight availability.
For those staying, our final evening will be a celebration—a chance to share stories, relive our adventures, and bid heartfelt farewells. As we reflect on the incredible experiences and lasting memories of our journey, we’ll conclude our time together in the vibrant heart of Turkey.
June 28th - Bodrum to Istanbul
Day 12
Please note: While we carefully curate every detail of our trips, the exact itinerary may evolve due to flight availability, cultural insights, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, accommodations, unforeseen circumstances, and more. Rest assured, any adjustments made will be in the spirit of ensuring the best possible experience for our travelers. We're committed to maintaining the essence of our meticulously planned journey, and we'll navigate any changes with your best interests at heart. Your adventure, warmth, and flexibility are part of the journey, and we appreciate your flexibility. We're here to make every moment unforgettable.
June 29th - Deapart Home
International Flight from Istanbul (IST), Turkey, back to your home. Note: Most Flights leaving Turkey will arrive in the United states on the same day.
Optional Extensions
June 29th - to Capadochia or Belek
For those seeking to extend their adventure, we can arrange an optional add-on to explore the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia or indulge in world-class golfing in Belek. In Cappadocia, marvel at the otherworldly fairy chimneys, ancient cave dwellings, and breathtaking hot air balloon rides over the surreal terrain. Alternatively, head to Belek, home to over 200 renowned golf courses offering some of the finest greens and luxury resorts in the world.
While this portion of the tour is self-guided, we can coordinate local guides, excursions, and all your golfing and resort arrangements to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. Please note that additional costs will apply based on your selected excursions and activities. We’re happy to discuss your preferences and create a personalized extension tailored to your interests.