Ever dreamt of gliding over Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon? Or getting lost in the Grand Bazaar? On this 12-day journey through Turkey, you’ll do precisely that, and then some. Your adventure begins where two continents collide in a glorious explosion of colour: Istanbul. After discovering the beauty of this cosmopolitan city, you’ll venture out to the traditional capital Ankara and the curious troglodyte dwellings of Cappadocia, plus the wild Taurus Mountains and coastal serenity of Antalya. There’s also time for a food tour of Kadıköy, and the chance to marvel at centuries-old ruins in Hattusas.
With an unrivalled view across the Sea of Marmara and the Golden Horn, the Novotel Istanbul Bosphorus is the perfect location to admire the largest city in Turkey from the waterfront. A hammam and swimming pool await you after a busy day sightseeing.
Ankara city centre lies on the doorstep of this plush hotel on Küçükesat Avenue. Plush rooms feature fluffy bathrobes, slippers and flat-screen TVs. Breakfast is served in the dining room – or in your room on request.
Staying in a cave has never been so opulent. Hewn from rock, yet with all the trappings of a modern luxury hotel, Utopia Cave Cappadocia offers a truly unique stay, with traditional hammams, a swimming pool and several terraces from which to savour its one-of-a-kind location.
Just across the street from the Mevlana Cultural Center, you’ll find the Hilton Garden Inn Konya. Classically styled rooms await, but not before you’ve sampled the local raki (a local spirit made from grapes and aniseed) in the bar.
This historic mansion has been lovingly restored as a boutique hotel, just a five-minute walk from Antalya Harbour and Mermerli Beach. Expect rainfall showers, contemporary rooms and a choice of excellent restaurants and bars, set among lush gardens.