Turkey & Greek Islands Itinerary

If arriving early, pound the pavement in Sultanahmet, dive into the pages of Middle Eastern history on a visit to Topkapi Palace or get into the spirit of the adventure with a glass of Turkey’s famous apple tea.

Board a ferry to the laidback seaside town of Ayvalik. This evening we stay in a family guesthouse.

Perhaps sample Ayvalik tost for breakfast - a tasty local speciality of toasted bread filled with sausage and cheese. Leave the beaches of Turkey on an evening ferry to the Greek island of Lesvos. Enjoy a stroll to a medieval castle and around the atmospheric Old Town.

Discover Chios, an island largely untouched by tourism. While here, learn about the many uses of the indigenous mastic tree and, in free time, maybe hire a bike to explore the island further.

Wander among the ancient colonnades and buildings of Ephesus including the Temple of Hadrian, the magnificent Library of Celsus and the enormous amphitheatre. Upon arrival in Selcuk, don an apron and learn to cook gozleme (Turkish pastry).

Head across the water to Fethiye and pay a visit the ghost town of Kayakoy. Travel by ferry to the historic island of Rhodes to discover the imposing Palace of the Grand Master, the largest inhabited medieval Old Town in Europe and enjoy a refreshing ocean swim.

Marvel at the gleaming travertines and thermal waters of Pamukkale, believed to have healing powers. Be treated to a reinvigorating soak in the thermal springs at Hierapolis.

Travel back to Istanbul as the Turkey and Greek Islands journey comes to a close.