LuxPlus+ members save 10% off all Experiences until 5 Jan when using promo code "EXP10LP" at checkout. Become a member
LuxPlus+ members save more – 10% off all Experiences until 5 Jan when using promo code "EXP10LP" at checkout.
Turkiye Highlights with Hot Springs Visit & Bosphorus Cruise
Sold Out
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Turkiye Highlights with Hot Springs Visit & Bosphorus Cruise
Still interested?
Join the waitlist to be the first to know when it becomes available again.
Call 1800 014 168
More offers available
Browse all tour offers
Limited Time Special

Turkiye Highlights with Hot Springs Visit & Bosphorus Cruise

Operated by: Mapping Journeys
8.0
Very Good
1 review
Overview
8 days
6 places
1 country
24 people max.
6+ yrs
active
Fully Guided Tour
This offer has sold out
About the Tour
Your tour takes you to:
Istanbul
Cappadocia
Istanbul
Cappadocia
Konya
Cappadocia
Pamukkale Natural Park
Konya
Pamukkale Natural Park
Izmir
Istanbul
Ephesus Ruins
Istanbul

Ancient cities, towering Turkish minarets and mesmerising natural landscapes await on this unforgettable small-group tour, uncovering layers of Turkiye’s history and culture. See where sultans used to live at the decorated Topkapi Palace, and marvel at the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. Float between two continents on an unforgettable cruise upon the Bosphorus Strait. Tunnel through towns of ‘fairy chimneys’ in Cappadocia – and optionally seize the opportunity to soar above the stone formations on a breathtaking hot air balloon ride as the sun rises (at an additional cost). Journey to Pamukkale, where terraces of white mineral-rich waters cascade down the hillside and discover the ancient city of Ephesus, a testament to the marvels of Roman engineering.

Travel comfortably with spacious private coach transport, airport transfers and internal flights across Turkiye. From the grandeur of Istanbul, to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the ancient wonders of Ephesus and the coastal allure of Izmir, take yourself on the journey of a lifetime steeped in history, enjoying local dining and unique experiences along the way.

Overview
8 days
6 places
1 country
24 people max.
6+ yrs
active
Fully Guided Tour
This offer has sold out
Choose a tour option
Itinerary & map
What you'll see
Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul! A city born from a blend of European and Asian influences, Istanbul is full of intriguing sights and ancient wonders, from its spellbinding architecture to its exceptional cuisine.

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport (IST), you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in time for a welcome meeting with your fellow travellers and an enticing dinner at a local restaurant.

Inclusions
Barceló Istanbul (Superior Room) or similar
Dinner
Istanbul

Start your morning with a visit to the elaborate Topkapi Palace, former residence of the sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Wander its sprawling grounds and intricately decorated halls, then sit down to a filling lunch at a local restaurant.

Later, journey to the streets of Istanbul’s fascinating Sultanahmet neighbourhood. Discover the area’s charm on a guided walk through the Hippodrome – once an ancient Roman circus and the lively heart of Constantinople – witness the grandeur of the Blue Mosque and its six soaring minarets, and admire the silhouette of the magnificent Hagia Sophia – a mind-bending 6th-century Byzantine mosque.

This evening, follow the comforting aromas to the Spice Bazaar and lose yourself amongst the fragrant stalls.

Inclusions
Barceló Istanbul (Superior Room) or similar
Breakfast and Lunch
Cappadocia, Istanbul

Spend the morning touring Istanbul’s most important neighbourhoods and uncover its historic and modern architectural treasures, walking alongside the streetcar down bustling Istiklal Avenue. Reach the Grand Bazaar – one of the largest covered markets in the world – for time at leisure, where you can peruse the colourful wares of over 4,000 shopfronts.

Later, embark on a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, gliding through the waters that separate Europe and Asia. Admire the verdant shorelines and palatial ‘yali’ – wooden mansions built right on the waterfront.

Back ashore, take your private transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Cappadocia, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and a satisfying dinner.

Inclusions
Hanedan Cappadocia Suites (Deluxe Stone Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Cappadocia

Adorned with stunning caves and ‘fairy chimneys’ — unique formations of eroded volcanic rocks – Cappadocia is a truly otherworldly landscape.

Choose to rise early for the sunrise of a lifetime on an optional hot air balloon flight over the magical fairy chimneys (additional costs apply). A bucket-list item for keen travellers, this is an experience not to be missed.

Later this morning, explore the wondrous formations up close and learn how the region’s soft tufa rock has allowed for the creation of incredible underground cities, chapels, cave houses and more. Take in incredible natural formations in the Avcilar and Guvercinlik Valleys, then trace the signs of successive civilisations carved in the town of Uchisar.

Later on, delve into one of the oldest and finest Turkish crafts on a visit to a carpet-weaving workshop. This evening, relax at your hotel over dinner and optionally join the unique ritual of the Sufi whirling dervishes at a live show.

Optional activity:

  • Cappadocia sunrise hot air balloon ride (additional costs apply).
  • Whirling dervishes ceremony (additional costs apply).
Inclusions
Hanedan Cappadocia Suites (Deluxe Stone Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Konya, Cappadocia

Fill up with a buffet breakfast at your hotel, then pay a visit to a traditional pottery workshop to learn about the skilled process of working with clay. See a wonderfully preserved 13th-century caravanserai, a roadside inn for weary travellers of centuries past.

Descend into the underground city of Serhatli – an ancient Christian refuge – then continue to Konya, home of Turkiye’s famous Sufi whirling dervishes. Take a tour of the Mevlana Museum for a window into the history of the dervishes, then check in at the opulent Dedeman Konya Hotel. Head out to explore the town or relax at the hotel before dinner.

Inclusions
Dedeman Konya Hotel (Superior Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Pamukkale Natural Park, Konya

Today, depart for Pamukkale – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder of mineral-rich hot springs. From petrified calcareous waterfalls to striking stalactites, there’s no shortage of natural beauty here.

Later, set out to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its 15,000-seat amphitheatre. Dating from the 2nd Century BCE, this impressive structure even now offers spectacular acoustics.

Check in at the Hotel Doga Thermal Health & Spa to rest up and relax. Perhaps savour the spa and massage services of this lavish resort, then indulge in a delightful evening meal with your travel companions.

Inclusions
Doga Thermal Health & Spa (Standard Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Pamukkale Natural Park, Izmir, Istanbul, Ephesus Ruins

Today, drive along the coast to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins of Ephesus, originally the most important Greek settlement in the region. Stroll through this beautifully preserved ancient city, admiring the delicate detail of the Temple of Hadrian and the resolute facade of the Library of Celsus.

Visit a fur production centre for an insight into Turkish craftsmanship, then continue to Izmir for your onward flight to Istanbul. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a flavourful dinner at a local restaurant.

Inclusions
Barceló Istanbul (Superior Room) or similar
Breakfast and Dinner
Istanbul

Savour one more breakfast, then collect your luggage and depart for Istanbul Airport (IST). Say goodbye to Turkiye’s rich history, and reminisce on the natural marvels, ancient cities and vibrant culture you experienced on your journey.

Inclusions
Barceló Istanbul (Superior Room) or similar
Breakfast
Highlights & inclusions
The following are included in your tour package:

North of the Taurus Mountains lies the enigmatic settlement of Cappadocia. Shaped by erosion, this collection of volcanic rock towers and caves have been carved into a unique set of churches and dwellings in an elaborate complex of tunnels.

Unearth the sites fascinating history as a Christian refuge dating back to the 4th Century BCE as you follow the interconnected structures across the Avcilar and Guvercinlik Valleys. Wander the underground city beneath the distinctive ‘fairy chimneys.’ Or perhaps join an optional hot air balloon ride to watch the sunrise over this beguiling landscape (additional costs apply).

With a name suitably translating to ‘cotton castle,’ Pamukkale provides a magical escape – unique terraces of mineral-rich turquoise waters cascade down a hillside crystalised in the shape of fluffy white clouds. You’ll have the opportunity to walk on the terraces, perhaps bathe in the pools and explore the ancient ruins of Heirapolis, an ancient Roman spa city located atop the hill. Marvel at the colossal heated waterfalls and inviting natural pools, formed over thousands of years and intricately adorned with stalactites.

  • 7 nights of handpicked accommodation
  • 14 meals included – seven breakfasts, one lunch and six dinners
  • Discover the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
  • Sink into the mineral-rich waters of the Pamukkale hot springs
  • Cruise between Europe and Asia along the Bosphorus Strait
  • Explore the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia
  • Join guided tours of Instanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale
  • Two internal economy class flights
  • Private airport transfers and luxury coach transport throughout your journey
  • Dedicated English-speaking tour director
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Dates & pricing
No departures available
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Give our team a call on 1800 014 168 for more tour options
No departures available
Sorry, this offer has sold out!
Give our team a call on 1800 014 168 for more tour options
Things to know

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your traveller information details in full.

  • Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete your Traveller Details form within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
  • Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 60 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
  • If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
  • Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
  • Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes’ Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise if the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
  • Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com, who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
  • For tours that allow children, the child must be 6 years or over and must share a room with an adult.
  • Children are the same price as adults.

Update 19 December 2024: Amendments & Cancellations section updated, please see below.

Please note, our 7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee and Date Change policy does not apply to Tours

  • All deposits, service fee, and payments are non-refundable.
  • Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation for credit due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, an additional service fee above and beyond the existing fees in the agreed payment schedules applies for A$300 per person will apply.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

  • Changes can be made on request by contacting the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
  • Tours pricing is dynamic and can change at any time.
  • Additional fees and fare difference may apply.
  • Changes are not permitted after your final payment date.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.
  • Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

  • Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees toward flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
  • You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).

Surcharges

  • After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
  • Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

  • You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your My Escapes.

Please note:

  • Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
  • Rooms will be made available after 3pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 10am. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request. Subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
  • Maximum room capacity (Twin Share) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.
  • All special requests, such as those regarding bedding preferences, are subject to availability and can only be confirmed upon check-in. Room assignments and bedding configurations may vary based on the destination and hotel policies, and are handled directly by the hotel staff.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation, if you choose to change; change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes.’

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.

  • Return international flights
  • Visas
  • Single supplement
  • Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
  • Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.

Baggage Restrictions

  • Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 20kg on tour.
  • Passengers are permitted one additional, small personal bag.

Transfers

  • Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only.
  • If you have booked your pre- and post-tour accommodation through Luxury Escapes, transfers may be available for select tours (not available for Trusted Partner operated tours).
  • If you have booked pre- or post-tour accommodation outside of Luxury Escapes, you will forfeit your complimentary airport transfers.
  • Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your tour group and may be shared among other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
  • Flight information must be provided to Luxury Escapes 60 days prior to departure in order to book transfers. Please see Destination information for airport pick-up and drop-off information.

Please Note:

  • Optional activities are subject to additional surcharge. These optional experiences can be organised directly with the tour operator at time of tour.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Passports & Visas

  • A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
  • You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
  • A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

  • Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller. This information can be added directly to your ’My Escapes’ account.
  • Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
  • We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact tours@luxuryescapes.com so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
  • Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
  • Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
  • If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
  • Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Tour Pace

  • It’s important to note that specific activities and intensity levels may vary between different tour operators and destinations. When selecting a group tour, it’s advisable to carefully review the itinerary, activity descriptions and fitness requirements to ensure a suitable match for your preferences and physical capabilities.
    • Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
    • Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
    • Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour director and driver with you throughout the entire trip, from start to finish.

  • Partially Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour driver and local guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different local guides for different regions.

  • Self-Guided Tour: You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport, pre-booked for you.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

  • Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities in this tour.
  • There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
  • Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins and ends at Istanbul International Airport (IST), with roundtrip airport transfers.

Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Please book your flights to arrive at Istanbul International Airport (IST) at 5pm on Day 1. If joining the regular tour, please book your flights to depart from Istanbul International Airport (IST) after 10am on Day 8. If joining the extended tour, please book your flights to depart from Istanbul International Airport (IST) after 10am on Day 10.

Roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.

Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct, to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.

Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Important Destination Information:

Turkiye

Time zone: GMT+3

Telephone: +90

Currency: Turkish Lira

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas.

Language: Turkish

Climate: Cold, snowy winters (December-March) and hot, dry summers (June, July and August), though nights remain cool.

Dress code: Relaxed but respectful, especially when visiting religious institutions.

  • Please note: For complimentary transfers to be fulfilled outside of arrival and departure date, all pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings must be booked through Luxury Escapes no later than 60 days before departure. After this time, any pre- or post-tour accommodation bookings made will not be eligible for complimentary transfers.
You may also like