Luxury Türkiye Adventure
Origins of Western Civilization | Fall Departure
19-Days | September 22 – October 10, 2025
$13,995 with special promotional discount*
Hike through glorious landscapes, explore ancient sites, cruise along the Turquoise coast, and wander among the mosques and palaces of Istanbul. To explore our 14-day Turkish Adventure click here »
When is the best time to visit Türkiye?
While Türkiye is beautiful year-round, our favorite times to go are in “shoulder seasons” when crowds are reduced and the weather is perfect for long hikes and days exploring. One of two seasonal departures a year, our fall exploration of Türkiye relishes in the bounty of harvest season in Cappadocia, warm coastal waters, and the aromas of the autumn spice markets in Istanbul.
In Cappadocia: Harvest Season
On the Coast: Perfect Hiking Weather
In Istanbul: Chestnuts Roasting
Your Itinerary
From golden valleys to ancient coasts, this active fall adventure explores Türkiye at its most vibrant. Hike, sail, and wander through Cappadocia, the Anatolian heartland, the Mediterranean, and Istanbul—each alive with history, flavor, and the colors of the season.
DAY 1
Arrival in Türkiye
Fly into Kayseri via Istanbul. A large city in central Anatolia, Kayseri is the capital of the Kayseri Province and the historical capital of Cappadocia. Spend the night at Wyndham Grand Hotel, surrounded by mountains, before beginning the first leg of your Turkish exploration.
DAYS 2-5
Cappadocia’s Fairy Chimneys & Underground Cities
Hike through golden vineyards during grape harvest season, and discover ancient cave churches and underground cities. Witness the Whirling Dervishes and float over the landscape at sunrise in a hot-air balloon (optional addition).
Autumn Highlight: Crisp air, fewer tourists, and it’s harvest season—local vineyards are bustling.
DAY 6
The Anatolian Plain, Rumi, and Ancient Settlements
Drive west via the Silk Road. Stop at Sultanhani Caravanserai, Rumi’s resting place in Konya, and Catalhoyuk’s ancient ruins. End in coastal Antalya.
Autumn Highlight: Cooler temperatures make inland travel and exploration delightful.
DAY 7
High Ruins and Ancient Artifacts
Climb to the dramatic mountaintop ruins of Termessos, built at least 2000 years before Machu Picchu. After lunch, visit the extensive Antalya Archeological Museum to see artifacts dating from prehistory.
Autumn Highlight: The steep mountain hike is refreshing, with clear air and fall foliage.
DAY 8
Ruins, Rock Tombs & Setting Sail
Visit seaside ruins at Phaselis, rock tombs at Myra, and St. Nicholas’ Church. Board your private gulet and cruise into Kekova Bay.
Autumn Highlight: Sea breezes are gentle, and water retains its summer warmth—perfect for swimming and kayaking.
DAYS 9-12
Gulet Cruise: Hidden Coves & Ancient Shores
Sail from Kas to Gemiler, hike to the abandoned Greek village of Kayaköy, sail to Cleopatra’s Bath, hike to ancient Lydae, and enjoy freshly prepared meals on deck. Visit Caunus via riverboat and see the cliff-carved tombs of Dalyan.
Autumn Highlight: The Mediterranean is still warm, crowds are reduced, and fall temperatures are perfect for vigorous hikes.
For a day-to-day itinerary of the coastal cruise, click here »
DAY 13
Temples & Hillside Villages
Disembark the Gulet and travel north to visit the remote Temple of Zeus at Euromus, the massive oracle ruins at Didyma, and the classical city of Priene. Overnight in the hillside village of Sirince.
Autumn Highlight: Priene’s hilltop pines turn golden, and village orchards are heavy with figs, apples, and late-season grapes.
DAY 14
Ephesus & Culinary Traditions
Explore the grandeur of Ephesus, from the Library of Celsus to the sacred house of Mary. Join a Turkish cooking class and learn how to make traditional dishes.
Autumn Highlight: Mild sun makes Ephesus a joy to walk, and fall flavors fill Turkish kitchens.
DAYS 15-19
Vibrance & History in Istanbul
Fly north to Istanbul and settle in at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet nestled among the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Explore the stalls of the Grand Bazaar. Cross the Golden Horn, explore the European side of the city, climb Galata Tower, and take a private Bosphorus cruise.
Autumn Highlight: The markets are alive with roasted chestnuts, figs, and spices; the trees in the city parks turn gold and red.
YOUR GUIDE
Bihter Kuranel
Bihter has guided travelers through Türkiye since 1997, sharing her deep knowledge of history, nature, and culture with warmth and clarity. Her engaging style and passion for place make her a guest favorite—and ours too.
YOUR CRUISE
Gulet: Tanhem H
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and exploration aboard the Tanem H—a 98-foot gulet with six elegant cabins, contemporary amenities, and a warm, attentive crew. Designed for relaxed coastal cruising, it's the ideal way to take in the history, beauty, and serenity of Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast.
HOTEL HIGHLIGHT
Istanbul: Four Seasons Sultanahmet
An oasis of calm in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet offers refined luxury just steps from Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque. Set around a serene courtyard garden, this 65-room retreat is one of our favorite hotels in the world.
Alternative Itinerary: Turkish Adventure
September 27 - October 10, 2025 | $12,995
This 14-day Turkish tour includes 5 nights along the coast, hiking to ruins and ancient sites, and 4 nights in Istanbul, exploring the vibrant city. It is guided by the exceptional Bihter Kuranel.
*This trip joins Origins of Western Civilizations after Cappadocia.