Turkish Delights: 2 week loop from Istanbul
Embark on a journey around the gems of Turkey starting from the magical Istanbul. From the laneways of ancient Ephesus to the bizarre landscapes of Cappadocia - take the plunge and discover the amazing adventure that is Turkey.
From £1060 Maximum group size 12)
Greentraveller's Travel Advice: The green way to reach Istanbul from the UK is a scenic overland train journey across Europe via Paris, Munich and Bucharest. Spend two relaxing days admiring the pictureque landscapes of France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria.
>> For full details, see: Train from London to Istanbul
Overview of Turkish Delights Holiday
Explore the mysterious land of the Ottomans. Marvel at the many minarets of Istanbul, explore the ruins of Ephesus, taste traditional Turkish fruit wines, admire the travertine pools of Pammukkale, visit a working Whirling Dervish lodge, sail over a sunken city, and enjoy a home-cooked meal in a Cappadocian house.
Summary Itinerary
The start point Hotel Constantine is a boutique hotel featuring modern rooms with air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, hair dryers and double glazed windows. It is located in the suburb on Eminonu, close to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and Topkapi Palace.
Days 1-2 Istanbul: Visit the amazing Blue Mosque and off-the-beaten-track sights such as the richly tiled Rustem Pasha Mosque.
Day 3 Bursa: Relax in a traditional Turkish bath, drop into a local teahouse or explore the bazaar in the Ottoman Empire's former capital. Visit a Dervish lodge to see a performance of the Sema.
Days 4-5 Selcuk: History comes to life strolling through ancient Ephesus, the former capital of the East Roman Empire. Learn the secrets of delicious gozleme then enjoy a local fruit wine tasting in Sirince.
Day 6 Pamukkale: The chalky terraces of Pamukkale and the hot springs of Hierapolis make for a fascinating day.
Days 7-8 Kayakoy: Discover the ghost houses or play backgammon and sip tea with the locals in Kayakoy. Trek along rugged coastline to the beautiful blue lagoon in Oludinez.
Days 9-10 Kas/ Boat Cruise/ Ucagiz: Kas is the starting point for a memorable cruise. Swim in crystal waters, sail over an ancient sunken city and sleep under the stars. Visit Ucagiz, a traditional fishing village.
Day 11 Konya: Travel away from the coast to the 'bread-basket' plains of the Anatolian steppe. Konya, in the heart of this region, offers a fascinating view of devoutly Muslim Turkey.
Days 12-14 Goreme: Be astounded by the kooky rock formations of Cappadocia, which jut from the ground like the smokestacks of fairies. Enjoy a meal with a local family to experience a slice of Cappadocian life.
Day 15 Istanbul: The journey ends back in Istanbul, where the call to prayer echoes over the winding streets. Perhaps visit a hamam to unwind from this fabulous adventure.
What price includes
- Trip accompanied by a group leader
- Walking tour in Istanbul led by your group leader
- Learn how to make Turkish gozleme (flaky pastry pie)
- Turquoise coast boat cruise
- Family visit and meal in their traditional home in Goreme
- Carbon emissions offset: 489 kgs per person
Location
Plan your journey by train
Meeting point:
The Constantine Hotel, Istanbul
Istanbul's Sirkeci station
Transfer to meeting point:
Guests make their own way to meeting point
The start point hotel 'The Constantine Hotel' is a 10 minute taxi ride from Sirkeci train station.
How to get there:
Train from London to Istanbul
Plan your journey by train
Finish point:
The Constantine Hotel, Istanbul
Istanbul's Sirkeci station
Transfer to finish point:
Guests make their own way to station
How to get back:
Train from Istanbul to London
