Turkish Treasures - 8 Nights
2026

9 days - 8 nights

2 hotel nights in Istanbul
4 nights on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express
2 hotel nights in Istanbul

Day 1 - Istanbul, Turkey

Your journey begins in mesmerising Istanbul, a city where continents, cultures and centuries intertwine. On arrival, you'll be welcomed and transferred to the five-star Four Seasons Sultanahmet (or similar), perfectly placed amid the Old City's historic splendour.

Tonight, a refined welcome reception dinner sets the tone for the adventure ahead and offers the chance to meet your fellow guests.

Why not linger a little longer in this enchanting city? From imperial palaces to hidden courtyards, Istanbul rewards every extra moment. Contact us for tailored extension options.

Days 2 & 3 - Istanbul, Turkey

Your exploration of Istanbul begins in the ancient Hippodrome, once the vibrant social and sporting heart of Byzantium, where chariot races thrilled emperors and citizens alike. From here, visit the magnificent Blue Mosque, its six slender minarets and more than 20,000 shimmering blue İznik tiles creating one of the world's most recognisable silhouettes. Nearby stands the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architectural harmony that has served as both cathedral and mosque, its vast interior revealing a remarkable fusion of Christian and Islamic artistry.

Following a refined lunch at the acclaimed Deraliye Restaurant, celebrated for its elegant interpretation of Ottoman cuisine, continue to the opulent Topkapi Palace, former residence of the Ottoman sultans. Wander through its lavish courtyards and ornate chambers, where centuries of intrigue and empire once unfolded. Descend next into the atmospheric Underground Cistern, a hauntingly beautiful feat of ancient engineering, before embarking on a private Bosphorus cruise. From the water, Istanbul's skyline unfolds in splendour, with domes and minarets rising above palaces, waterside mansions and historic fortresses lining the strait between two continents.

As evening falls, breathe in the heady aromas of the Spice Market before dinner at the renowned Hamdi Restaurant, perfectly positioned for sweeping views across the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus.

On Day 3, after a leisurely lunch, you will be transferred to board the Golden Eagle Danube Express. Settle into your luxurious cabin and enjoy a relaxing afternoon and evening as your remarkable rail journey begins.

Day 4 - Izmir and Ephesus, Turkey

This morning, awake in vibrant Izmir, one of Turkey's great port cities, shaped by layers of Greek, Roman and Ottoman heritage. After visiting the ancient Agora, a remarkably preserved Roman marketplace that once formed the commercial heart of the city, your journey continues to the legendary ruins of Ephesus.

Stroll along the marble streets of this extraordinary classical city, where grand temples, vast amphitheatres and the magnificent Library of Celsus still evoke the splendour of one of the ancient Mediterranean's most important centres. As you walk these historic avenues, you follow in the footsteps of the philosopher Heraclitus, whose ideas once echoed through this thriving metropolis. After time to absorb the atmosphere of Ephesus, return to the train and relax as the Golden Eagle Danube Express continues toward your next destination.

Day 5 - Denizli – Hierapolis and Laodicea, Turkey

Arrive in Denizli for a full-day exploration of the remarkable ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site set above the region's famed thermal springs. Founded as a Greco-Roman spa city and centre of healing, it still conveys a powerful sense of antiquity. Walk among the vast necropolis and admire the impressive theatre, its tiers rising above sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Your exploration continues to nearby Laodicea, another great ancient city that held an important place in early Christian history and was renowned in antiquity for its prosperity and textile trade. Today, its evocative remains stand in quiet contrast to its once-vibrant past, creating a deeply atmospheric encounter with history.

Day 6 - Ankara, Turkey

Awake in Ankara, Turkey's dynamic capital, where the energy of modern life is interwoven with the legacy of ancient Anatolian civilisations. Your morning begins at the renowned Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, whose remarkable collections trace the region's cultural story from the earliest Neolithic communities through the Hittites and successive empires that shaped this land.

You then visit the monumental Mausoleum of Atatürk, set prominently on a hill overlooking the city. Both a place of national reverence and a striking architectural statement, it honours the visionary founder of modern Turkey and reflects the ambition of a newly formed republic. Lunch is served at the elegant Divan Çukurhan, a beautifully restored caravanserai now transformed into a refined boutique hotel, before you return to the train and continue your journey in comfort.

Day 7 - Cappadocia, Turkey

Enjoy your final breakfast on board before arriving in Kayseri, then transfer to Cappadocia, one of the world's most extraordinary landscapes. Shaped over millennia by volcanic eruptions and relentless erosion, the region is a surreal panorama of sculpted rock formations, honeycombed cliffs and vast cave networks. Your touring begins at Özkonak Underground City, a remarkable subterranean labyrinth where entire communities once found refuge in times of invasion.

After a delicious lunch at Bizim Ev Restaurant, continue into the enchanting scenery of Paşabağ and Devrent Valleys. Here, Cappadocia's famous fairy chimneys rise from the earth and the curious, dreamlike terrain feels almost otherworldly. As evening approaches, return to your luxurious hotel to unwind and look forward to a memorable night in this magical region.

Day 8 - Cappadocia, Turkey

The day begins with an optional hot air balloon flight, available for a small supplement and widely considered one of Cappadocia's most unforgettable experiences. At dawn, float gently above the region's extraordinary terrain as the rising sun bathes the fairy chimneys and sculpted valleys in soft golden light. From this privileged vantage point, Cappadocia's surreal beauty unfolds in complete stillness. Alternatively, you may prefer to remain on the ground and watch the colourful balloons ascend across the morning sky, a magical spectacle and perfect photographic moment.

After this uplifting start, continue to the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its remarkable rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes. Further stops at Pigeon Valley and the historic settlements of Uçhisar and Ortahisar complete your exploration of this captivating region. This evening, gather for a lavish farewell dinner at the atmospheric Maara Konak, a fitting celebration of your journey through Turkey.

Day 9 - Cappadocia, Turkey

On your final day, after a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes as you are transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Although your time in Turkey draws to a close, the memories of its rich heritage, remarkable scenery and warm hospitality will remain with you long after you return home.

Departure 2026 :

Deposit - 25% of tour cost

Tour includes :

Accommodation

• • 2 nights Five-star post tour hotel accommodation in Istanbul
• • 4 nights on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express
• • 2 nights Five-star post tour hotel accommodation in Istanbul

Service

• • Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
• • Experienced Tour Management team
• • Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
• • Arrival and departure transfers
• • All gratuities – on and off the train
• • Luggage porterage throughout the journey

Dining

• • Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
• • Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
• • Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from Standard Bar list
• • 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 8 Dinners

Excursions

• • Experience the incredible with a hot-air balloon ride over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia (Optional)
• • Visit the mesmerising ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• • Enjoy a private Bosphorus cruise, showcasing Istanbul's skyline from a unique perspective.

Please note : the Golden Eagle Danube Express route is subject to change without prior warning due to last minute railway engineering works or similar. Itinerary and timings shown are for guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel documents. Most hotels are on request and cannot be processed until a deposit is received. All arrangements are subject to availability.

It is advised not to book your flights until 3 months prior to departure, in order to ensure that the departure is confirmed.