The Best of Turkey

There are no planned activities until the welcome meeting in the evening. After, opt to head out to dinner in a local restaurant with the group. Get the most out of your time in Istanbul by pre-booking a full-day activity before your tour starts, the Istanbul Walking Tour and Bosphorus Cruise. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night pre-tour. And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. This activity is available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, while the optional activities listed below can be booked independently upon arrival in Istanbul if your time permits. Stay: Hotel Golden Horn Istanbul (9 Istasyon Arkasi Street)

Make an early morning visit to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during WWI in the battle of the same name. Take in the sights and learn the sombre story. It is only a little further to Çanakkale, a busy harbour town with a thriving student population. Join the crowds as they stroll the waterfront nightly. Stay: Bogaz Hotel (B)

Enjoy a visit to the world-famous city of Troy. Continue to Ayvalik. Be charmed by the blend of old Ottoman architecture, cobblestoned streets, and an attractive harbour. In the afternoon, opt to charter a small boat from the harbour to cruise this beautiful area. After, head to waterside restaurants for a sunset drink. Stay: Hotel Ayvalik Palas (B)

Enjoy a free morning in Ayvalik before travelling to Selçuk, the base for exploring the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Ephesus. Head to town and enjoy some free time to explore. Stay: Cenka Hotel (B)

With free time, choose to pre-book a traditional Selcuk cooking class, walk to the remains of St John's Basilica, visit the Mosque of Isa Bey or wander the streets of this vibrant Turkish town. Another option is to catch a local “dolmus” bus to the picturesque village of Şirince (8km/5 mi) to sample some local wine or shop for crafts. For dedicated sunseekers, the beach at Pamucaki is also within reach. Stay: Cenka Hotel (B)

Visit the famous white cliffs of Pamukkale and the ancient site of Hierapolis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hierapolis is evidence that the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the second century BC. Stay: Tripolis Hotel (B)

Take a short flight to İstanbul. After settling in, depart for a walking tour of the city. Each tour will be a bit different, allowing your CEO to point out their favourite spots. See highlights that may include the Hagia Sophia (or Aya Sofya) and the Topkapi Palace. With a little extra time, return to explore these sights in depth. Stay: Hotel Golden Horn Istanbul (9 Istasyon Arkasi Street) (B)

Your tour might be finished, but the adventure’s far from over. Pre-book one of the following activities to experience after your tour ends: Dolmabahçe Palace Visit and Bosporus Cruise or Istanbul Backstreets Walk. If you do, we recommend booking accommodation for an extra night in Istanbul. And don’t worry if you can’t decide now. These activities are available for pre-booking any time before your tour starts, or they can be booked upon arrival in Istanbul. (B)