Wonders of Turkey

It’s the city Napoleon said should be the capital of Earth and while it may not have reached that stature, Istanbul’s history as the capital of two great empires has left an enviable legacy of art, architecture and culture. Where better to begin your journey across Turkey than in its cultural capital, the gateway to the Orient? Arrive at your hotel and explore the city your way before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a glimpse into what lies ahead.

Discover how centuries of Ottoman rule shaped the city's heritage as the meeting point between East and West when you join your Travel Director this morning for a guided sightseeing tour. See Hagia Sophia, once the leading church in Christendom, the Hippodrome and the Blue Mosque. Later, you’ll have time to explore Istanbul your way or consider a Choice Experience to the Topkapi Palace Museum and a cruise on the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe and Asia.

Ramble past the colourful displays of lanterns, pottery and fabric as you wander through one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar. The scents of Turkish tea will linger long after you leave Istanbul, bound for Ankara. On arriving in the Turkish capital, you’ll visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations.

• Discover Istanbul's Grand Bazaar

The hometown of the Hittites is under the spotlight this morning. Visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder and father of the Turkish Republic, then continue to the whimsical landscapes of Cappadocia and visit the underground city of Saratli.

Up for an early start? Choose a Sunrise Balloon Watching Choice Experience and head to a panoramic viewpoint as colourful balloons float above Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys. Continue to Paşabaği and Red Valley, then visit a regional rug production centre. This afternoon is yours to explore. Discover ancient rock churches on the Göreme Choice Experience, create your own keepsake at the Mosaic Lamp Workshop Choice Experience with local artisans, or join a Sunset Hike Choice Experience through Cappadocia’s valleys as the sky turns pink and gold. This evening, consider the Whirling Dervishes Choice Experience, witnessing their mesmerising ritual in remembrance of God.

First up is the ancient city of Konya, the final resting place of the Sufi philosopher Mevlana, whose famous mausoleum you will visit before continuing to the cotton fortress of Pamukkale, home to mineral-rich thermal waters that cascade down snow-white travertine terraces.

This morning, prepare to be wowed. The brilliant white pools of Pamukkale spill down the cliffs like a frozen waterfall as you explore the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis. Then, get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Turkey’s craft traditions with a leatherwork display before continuing west to the Aegean and the easy-going charm of Izmir. Stretch your legs along the breezy promenade, soak up the harbour views and uncover the city’s multicultural past, once a thriving Greek hub. Tonight, why not join a Choice Experience and grab a table at a local favourite? On the menu: Izmir’s legendary Iskender döner, piled high with grilled meat, warm bread, rich tomato sauce, yoghurt and butter.

Today is free for you to enjoy at leisure or our Choice Experience could see you visit Ephesus, a 2,000-year-old site and home to the iconic Library of Celsus and Hadrian’s Temple. Included in this experience is a visit to the stone cottage, where the Virgin Mary is said to have spent her final years, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards visit the glassmakers of Nazarköy village and discover the region's connection with the Evil eye beads on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.

On today’s agenda is a visit to Troy, the ancient city that inspired Homer’s tales of Achilles' wrath and the legendary siege, only broken by the clever construction of a wooden Trojan horse, a replica of which can still be seen today. Continue to Çanakkale.

Today starts on a reflective note at Gallipoli, the site of fierce World War I battles. Visit Anzac Cove, Lone Pine Cemetery and Chunuk Bair, taking time to remember the soldiers on both sides who lost their lives here. Later, you’re back in Istanbul for your final night. One more evening, one more memory? You could join a Turkish Cooking Class Choice Experience and get hands-on with some of Turkey’s favourite dishes before sitting down to enjoy the results together.

Your whirlwind encounter with the wonders of Turkey has come to an end. You’ve stood at the crossroads of East and West, trod in the footsteps of the ancients and admired ethereal landscapes that belong in a storybook. For now it’s time to end this chapter with a heartfelt farewell to your newfound friends.