Turkey: A Journey Through History - A Marco Polo Journey (2024)

Arrive in Istanbul, where you are met and transferred to your hotel.

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Begin sightseeing with a private, before-hours opening of the Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts, home to a vast array of manuscripts, miniatures, ceramics, glassware, and antique Turkish carpets. From here, visit the Basilica Cistern, with its marble columns dating to the sixth century. Continue to the timeless Hagia Sophia, marvelling at the structure’s imposing façade and towering vaulted ceilings. Next, explore the ancient Hippodrome, which once hosted chariot races, and the city walls, dating to various eras of the city’s storied history. Then visit the newly renovated Chora Church, famous for is outstanding Late Byzantine mosaics and frescos. After lunch, embark on a private cruise of the Bosphorus. Later this evening, gather with your fellow guests for a welcome dinner.

Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet | Meals: BLD

Revel in the ornately decorated ceilings and spectacular tile work of Topkapi Palace, the one-time imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, and then visit the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. Fly to Bodrum and check in to your hotel to relax before dinner.

The Marmara Bodrum | Meals: BD

Stop by the ancient Theatre of Halicarnassus before visiting the Bodrum Underwater Archaeology Museum in the Castle of St. Peter, which houses the oldest shipwreck ever discovered. Gain A&K-exclusive private access to the research and conservation laboratories. Next, savour a Chef’s Table cooking demonstration at a charming restaurant founded by a local self-taught gourmet chef who shares some of her secrets. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

The Marmara Bodrum | Meals: BL

Journey to Euromos to explore the ruined yet magnificent Temple of Zeus. Continue to Didyma to discover the Temple of Apollo, dating to at least 300 BC. Stop for lunch at a local seaside restaurant. Then, proceed to Priene for a walking tour at the age-old Temple of Athena before continuing to Izmir, where you enjoy dinner overlooking the sea.

Swissotel Buyuk Efes | Meals: BLD

Embark on a day trip to Ephesus, where Saint Paul once lived. Explore the renowned archaeological park and museum here as well as the weekly farmers market’s vibrant product stalls, before enjoying a special lunch in a nearby village. Return to Izmir for an afternoon and evening at leisure.

Swissotel Buyuk Efes | Meals: BL

Fly via Istanbul to Kayseri and explore the nearby volcanic stone “fairy chimneys.” Then explore the mysterious rock-carved churches of Goreme, and visit the Dark Church, which has been beautifully restored inside to its former stunning glory. This evening, dine at your hotel.

Argos in Cappadocia | Meals: BD

This morning, enjoy an optional hot air balloon excursion over Cappadocia. Afterward, visit the Goreme Weavers Association on an engaging artisan visit. Then, sit down with a local family for lunch in their home. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating underground city at Kaymakli, which dates to the eighth century BC and includes chapels, kitchens, air vents and dwellings carved out of volcanic rock. Finish with a refreshing Scenic Sundowner looking over the amazing Cappadocian landscape.

Argos in Cappadocia | Meals: BL

Today, fly back to Istanbul. This afternoon, visit Dolmabahce Palace, once a seat of Ottoman power, and see the collection of Ottoman royal barges, a hidden gem of the city.

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul | Meals: B

Ride Like a Local on a public ferry across the Bosphorus to explore Suleymaniye Mosque and the Grand Bazaar, and stroll the fragrant spice market. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner.

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul | Meals: BLD

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to depart.

Meals: B

Internal air included: Istanbul/Bodrum; Izmir/Kayseri/Istanbul
Minimum age is 10 years.
First group event: welcome briefing at 8:00 a.m. on Day 2.
Last group event: farewell dinner at 7:00 p.m. on Day 10.
Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests.

Included with every Marco Polo Journey

• English-Speaking Resident Tour Director and Local Guides
• Hand-Selected Luxury Accommodations (Where Available)
• Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
• Travelling Bell Boy Luggage Handling
• Breakfast in Bed on Select Days
• Full Breakfast Daily; Select Lunches and Dinners
• Traveller’s Valet Laundry Service
• Internet Access (Where Available)
• Entrance Fees, Taxes and All Gratuities Except Resident Tour Director
• 24/7 A&K On-Call Support
• Guaranteed Departures with Just Two Guests

Talk to one of our expert Journey Designers or your travel agent about booking this tour as a private journey for your own small group with family or friends. Or, if you would prefer to travel privately, find out more about creating the perfect bespoke tailor-made journey based on this itinerary.