Turkey: A Journey Through History

Arrive in Istanbul, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet

Rise early for a private, before-hours opening of 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. Then, explore the ancient Hippodrome, which once hosted chariot races, and the city walls, dating to various eras of the city's storied history. After lunch, embark on a private cruise of the Bosphorus. Later this evening, gather with your fellow guests for a welcome dinner. Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (B/L/D)

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. Stay: The Marmara Bodrum (B/D)

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. Stay: The Marmara Bodrum (B/L)

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. Stay: Swissotel Buyuk Efes (B/L/D)

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. Stay: Swissotel Buyuk Efes (B/L)

Fly via Istanbul to Kayseri and explore the nearby volcanic stone “fairy chimneys.” Next, on an A&K-exclusive experience, enjoy private, after-hours access to the rock-carved churches of Goreme, and visit the Dark Church, before dining at your hotel. Stay: Argos in Cappadocia (B/D)

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. Stay: Argos in Cappadocia (B/L)

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. Stay: Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul (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. Stay: Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul (B/L/D)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to depart. (B)