Itinerary

Step into a magical world of labyrinthine bazaars and mysterious mosques. Discover hidden gems with a walk down the backstreets of eclectic Istanbul city. Delight in the Islamic architecture of the Blue Mosque, regarded as the finest mosque on the planet, and perhaps get steamy in a hamam.

Work up an appetite exploring rock-hewn churches, unusual cave homes and dreamlike valleys with evocative names like the Valley of Love. Then wander through the World Heritage-listed Open Air Museum to spy beautiful religious frescoes before joining a local family for a traditional Turkish feast.

Make tracks to Konya, home to one of the largest universities in the country. While here, perhaps visit the shrine of the great mystic Rumi, the incredible Mevlana Museum or explore a tangle of streets packed with colourful shops and flamboyant sellers.

Admire historic houses and soak up an old-world atmosphere while walking around Kaleici. While here, be sure to check out the ancient Roman Harbour. Or, if feeling adventurous, head out to one of the nearby ancient Hellenistic cities for further explorations or wander through Karaalioglu Parki.

Travel to the idyllic coastal town of Kas - a great base for enjoying the Mediterranean. Cruise around nearby islands, dive into the sea from one of the waterfront restaurants that have their own private water access or glide over a sunken city for a somewhat unusual experience.

Discover the abandoned Greek houses of Kayakoy. Enjoy a glass of tea and game of backgammon in the tree-lined village square, have a haircut at the local barber shop or perhaps set sail on a boat cruise in Butterfly Valley. Then, take a day trip to picture-perfect Oludeniz and swim in its Blue Lagoon.

Marvel at the gleaming, chalky terraces of Pamukkale, which have fascinated travellers for centuries. Take in their immense natural beauty before venturing to Hierapolis to wile away time in the thermal hot springs. Work up a thirst exploring Ephesus, the best-preserved ancient city in Turkey, before learning to make cheesy gozleme in a cooking demonstration. Then, join a fruit wine tasting and continue to absorb the laidback vibe of Selcuk.

End the adventure back where it all began. Perhaps cap off this memorable journey by getting a taste of the famed Istanbul nightlife, or take a more cultured approach by visiting the resplendant Aya Sofya, the expansive Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, the heaving Grand Bazaar or maybe head back to the hamam for a relaxing massage.