Turkish Treasures: Istanbul to Cappadocia

Istanbul is the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. Today, we will visit a selection of Istanbul’s must-see historic sites and see how old meets new and east meets west.

You will begin with a visit to the Hippodrome Square, the former social heart of Byzantium, where chariot races once captivated crowds. You will continue on to The Sultan Ahmet Mosque (the Blue Mosque), one of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds.

Continue to the incomparable Hagia Sophia, built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian as one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world.

After lunch in a local restaurant with Ottoman delicacies, visit Topkapi Palace, the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire, with its treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn. It is the largest and oldest palace in the world and was the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans from 1465 to 1853.

Explore the haunting Underground Cistern, an eerie yet beautiful marvel of ancient engineering. Our private Bosphorus cruise showcases Istanbul’s skyline from a unique perspective, gliding past opulent palaces, vibrant waterside mansions and historic fortresses.

There is also time to explore the aromatic Spice Market before we transfer to the station to board the Golden Eagle Danube Express on the afternoon of Day 3.

Settle into your private cabin and enjoy dinner on board as the train takes us to our next destination.

This morning, wake to the vibrant city of Izmir, one of Turkey’s most important port cities with a rich blend of Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences. After a visit to Agora, a well-preserved marketplace from the Roman era, the journey continues to the fabled ancient city of Ephesus.

Wander through the marble streets of Ephesus, where grand temples, amphitheaters, and the awe-inspiring Library of Celsus remain as a testament to the city’s former glory as one of the most important cities of the ancient Mediterranean. Feel history come alive as you stand where the philosopher Heraclitus once stood. After this enchanting tour, you’ll re-board the train, ready for the next destination.

Arrive in Denizli for a full-day exploration of the mesmerizing ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built atop the famous hot springs, this Greco-Roman city was a spiritual and healing center. Stroll through the ancient necropolis, and take in the grandeur of the theatre, with sweeping views over the surrounding landscape.

Continue to Laodicea, another ancient city that played a pivotal role in early Christian history, known for its wealth and textiles. The juxtaposition of sacred history and silent ruins will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Enjoy your final breakfast onboard before arriving in Kayseri and transferring to Cappadocia, known for its unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and erosion.

Your tour begins at the Ozkonak Underground City, a hidden subterranean labyrinth that once sheltered entire communities from invaders.

After lunch at Bizim Ev Restaurant, explore the magical Pasabag and Devrent Valleys, filled with fairy chimneys and dreamlike landscapes.

End the day relaxing at your luxurious five-star hotel for a two-night stay.

Begin your day with an optional hot-air balloon ride, soaring over Cappadocia’s stunning landscapes as the sunrise paints the valleys in golden light. This wonderful experience allows you to see the natural beauty of Cappadocia from a truly unique vantage point.

Afterward, visit the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds some of the finest rock-cut churches in the world, adorned with ancient frescoes. A stop at Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, and Ortahisar towns will round off your day, before enjoying a lavish farewell dinner at the spectacular Maara Konak.

Following breakfast on the final morning, we will be transferred to the airport for onward flight departures.