A Culture-Forward Journey Through Turkey in 12 days

Istanbul is bold, layered, and endlessly interesting. It rewards travelers who dive into history with a guide and then leave room to explore.

What to do:

• Private tour of the Old City (Sultanahmet): Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace come alive through storytelling that connects empires, religion, and modern life.

• Neighborhood wandering: Move beyond Sultanahmet into areas like Karaköy and Galata for cafés, boutiques, and a more contemporary feel.

• Secret food tour: One of the best ways to experience Istanbul’s nightlife and local flavors.

• Evening hammam experience: A traditional Turkish bath followed by dinner and drinks.

Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s most iconic regions, and it more than lives up to the hype. The landscapes are surreal, the pace is calm, and the experiences feel almost cinematic.

What to do:

• Hot air balloon rise at sunrise: Floating above fairy chimneys and valleys as the sun rises is the bucket-list moment.

• Cave hotel stay: Atmospheric and unforgettable, with modern comforts built into ancient stone.

• Valley hikes: Walk through Rose Valley or Red Valley for close-up views of the rock formations and quieter perspectives away from crowds.

• Underground cities and open-air museums: Explore the ingenuity of ancient civilizations carved directly into the earth.

One of the most unforgettable ways to experience Turkey is from the water.

A four-day gulet cruise from Fethiye to Olympos follows the Mediterranean coastline aboard a traditional wooden sailing boat, revealing a side of Turkey that is almost entirely inaccessible by road.

Why this is a must:

• Crystal-clear waters: Swim straight off the boat in secluded coves.

• Incredible food: Fresh, home-cooked Turkish meals prepared onboard.

• Access to hidden ruins: Anchor at remote beaches, ruins, and swimming spots.

• Social and laid-back atmosphere: Days revolve around swimming, reading, hiking, and shared meals with other members of the boat, with evenings spent under the stars.

• Optional: Paragliding and scuba diving.

After sailing, Kaş is an ideal place to linger for a few days of relaxation before heading home. Kaş is also a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering activities such as paragliding, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, trekking, horseback riding, canyoning, jeep safaris, and bike tours.

What to do:

• Hakiliki Beach Club by boat taxi: Calm, clean, card-friendly, and reachable by taxi or boat taxi. No actual sand (as most beach clubs in the area don’t have sand).

• Antiphellos Amphitheatre: A 1st-century BC Lycian amphitheater overlooking the sea.

• Bayrak Viewpoint: A scenic sunset spot (20–30 minutes uphill).

• Boat Trip to Kekova Island (If you did not go on the gullet cruise): Explore sunken ruins, snorkel, and possibly spot sea turtles.

• Boutique shopping along Doğruyol Cd near the King’s Tomb

Top three must-eats:

• N8 Bakery: Excellent pastries and coffee

• Maşuk Meyhane Kaş: Standout meze and beautifully prepared vegetables

• Pell’s Gece Gündüz Lezzet: A leisurely Turkish breakfast