Epic Turkey & Balkans Odyssey LUXURY

Welcome to Turkey! Meet in the hotel lobby at 7:00pm for an informal meeting with your group and guide. Until then, you can start to explore Istanbul like climbing to the top of the Galata Tower for epic views or splash some cash at the Grand Bazaar. After the meeting, join in an optional group dinner at a local restaurant to get to know your new travel mates…

After breakfast, we head to the airport to catch our flight to Cappadocia. One of the most popular sites in Turkey, the famous region is decorated with stunning caves and fairy-chimneys: unique formations of eroded volcanic rocks and tuff. Starting the adventure at Avanos – famous for its top-quality clay, learn all about pottery-making at an interactive workshop. After a long day of cultural discovery, relax at your hotel and join your group over dinner at the hotel.

Rise and shine, it will be an early start for our optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Or if preferred, enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before we all fill up on breakfast. We will explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Göreme, and tick off bucket list sights along the way including Göreme Musuem, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar and Cavusin. In the afternoon, we go for an Authentic Encounter visiting local handicraft manufacturers and learning about traditional arts and crafts. Tonight get your dancing shoes on for our optional Turkish night.

Start an unforgettable day by exploring the famous underground city of Kaymakli where ancient Christians took refuge to escape raids and wars for centuries. Here you will discover the complex network of underground tunnels, storerooms, burial chambers and chapels dating back to various eras. Together with the unique geology, each civilization and culture have shaped this marvelous heritage over thousands of years into a one-of-a-kind experience for all travelers. The journey continues towards Konya, home of the famous whirling dervishes – members of the Sufism order. After dinner, you can relax at your hotel and replay cherished moments of discovery.

Meet the diverse Turkish culture and its various facades today. Starting with an 8-century-old center of education and architectural beauty, Karatay Madrasa, continue to the Museum and Mausoleum of Mevlana, also globally known as Rumi. Explore the ideas and works of the famous scholar, poet and theologist of the 13th century, whose teachings of understanding and acceptance have lived on to this day. In the afternoon, we will make our way to Perge, located 15 km east of Antalya, and home to remarkable ruins of ancient Pamphylia city. The acropolis here holds incredible mosaics dating back to the Bronze Age. With a short drive away lies Aspendos, the sister town of Perge. Aspendos is known for having the best-preserved theatre of antiquity. Imagine an amphitheater maintained in excellent quality over 2,000 years and an unbelievable capacity of 12,000! Its incredible acoustics haven’t aged a day. Later on, bbreathe in the clean scent of the sea as we drive to Antalya. Antalya is a hugely popular seaside resort with endless beaches and premium service. Dinner at the hotel and personal leisure time in the evening.

Start your day by exploring the charming heart of Antalya — Kaleiçi. We will wander through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman-era houses and soak in the blend of history, culture, and stunning sea views.

Next, we’ll head to the scenic Lower Düden Waterfalls, where fresh mountain water dramatically cascades off a cliff straight into the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a refreshing break.

The afternoon is free for you to enjoy Antalya at your own pace, whether you prefer relaxing at the beach, shopping in the bazaars, or sipping Turkish tea with a view.

This morning, we are heading inlands and arrive in our hotel at the Cotton Castle of Turkey, Pamukkale. Walk in shallow pools of calcar with breath-taking scenery unfolding before you in terraces of snow-white travertines. Famously known for its mineral-rich waters and healing properties, Pamukkale region has welcomed endless visitors over millennia. Delve into history at the ancient city Hierapolis, witnessing the majestic amphitheater of 15,000 seats and ever-impressive acoustics. Rest up, relax or even savor the spa or massage services of your hotel. Your seat for dinner is already reserved at the hotel restaurant.

This morning we are driving to the amazing ruins of ancient Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll the incredibly well-preserved ancient city and the impressive library. With a short ride away from the marvelous wonders, you will visit Virgin Mary’s house in the mountains – where she is believed to have lived her final days. Our next stop will be of culinary discovery at a lovely restaurant in the countryside famously known for delicious Gozleme. Following the cultural overload, we arrive to our hotel at seaside metropolitan Izmir – the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Turkish seafood culture and raki.

A day filled with epic adventure awaits. In the morning, we will depart for Pergamon. Home to healing waters and ruins of the Asklepion medical center, it is one of the most important centers of healing of the Roman world. Our journey continues with the visit to the ancient city of Troy where we will witness the ruins of the once glorious city with a special place in mythology and history. Pose with the famous Trojan Horse before departing for Çanakkale and arrive to our hotel just in time for dinner.

After a delicious breakfast, we leave for the famous shores of Gallipoli. Arriving in Gallipoli, we pay our respects to the fallen Turkish and Australian soldiers who bravely fought here during World War 1, still commemorated every year in April. Witness the now-green battlefields, visit the Anzac Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair and other important historical sites. In the afternoon, with a scenic drive through the countryside, we make our way to Istanbul on a comfortable ride. Relax at your hotel and join your group over dinner at the hotel.

After breakfast, we begin to experience the magnificence of Istanbul. We will stroll through the historical heart of the old city, making stops along the way to the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, majestic Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia. In the afternoon take an optional cruise down the Bosphorus river and see the epic skyline. The rest of the day is yours to haggle your way through the famous Grand Bazaar to find the perfect souvenir for your loved ones and yourself!

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight from Istanbul to Sofia, marking the beginning of the Balkans leg of your adventure. Sit back and enjoy the journey as you leave Turkey behind and head towards Bulgaria’s vibrant capital.

Upon arrival in Sofia, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some time to settle in. The rest of the day is yours to relax, take a first stroll through the city, or ease into the new atmosphere as your Balkan journey begins.

After a substantial breakfast, set out on a guided tour of Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital and one of the Balkans’ most fascinating cities. Discover a rich blend of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, Ottoman influences, grand boulevards, and modern city life as your guide introduces you to Sofia’s layered history and local character. Then, hop on the bus and make your way to the Serbian capital, Belgrade.

After breakfast, set out on a guided city tour of Belgrade, Serbia’s lively capital where history, culture, and riverside views come together. Begin near the mighty Belgrade Fortress, taking in stunning views over the Danube and Sava rivers, before continuing into the heart of the city.

Stroll along Knez Mihailova, Belgrade’s vibrant pedestrian street lined with cafés, shops, elegant buildings, and local energy. As your guide leads the way, discover the city’s key landmarks, fascinating stories, and layered past, from medieval heritage to modern Balkan life.

After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Belgrade at your own pace. You may choose to relax at a café, browse local shops, revisit the fortress, wander through atmospheric streets, or enjoy the city’s famous food and nightlife scene.

Next stop Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital, the city that has been through it all! It is where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split and where people of many nations and religions met, lived and warred. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. Though, still an oriental beauty with a unique twist, and a delight to discover on your walking tour in the old town. The city offers endless delicacies to taste, but the specialty is lamb.

Today, we drive for the amazing Adriatic shore, but first a stop at Mostar! As you arrive in this dreamland, walk through the Old Town of this Herzegovina pearl, see the iconic highlights Old Bridge – Stari Most, and the old čaršija (market). Enjoy your lunch with an amazing view at one of the local venues, discover the old town and make sure to try the delicious Turkish coffee. In the afternoon, we ride to Trebinje for our overnight stay.

Get ready for a long day at Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic”! With its well-preserved majestic walls encircling the whole town and its sea of terra-cotta roof tiles, giving life to the “King’s Landing”, the whole town is an amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even the drive down to town from the mountain-side is a breakth-taking highlight in itself! We start off with a guided walking tour of the Old Town and marvel at the millennial history of this fairy-like town. Walk atop the mighty walls, discover cute narrow streets, taste delicious seafood or jump off into the crystal-blue waters. In the evening, we return to Trebinje for a good night’s rest.

Next stop Montenegro! Arrive in Kotor after a scenic drive an meet its calming natural beauty and characteristic architecture, a less-crowded version of Dubrovnik with its impressive medieval citadel. Following a walking tour of the old town with your expert local guide and some free time. Departure to Albania, which is our final destination for the day. Shkoder is one of the most authentic cities in Albania. Walking tour through the centre. Overnight in Shkoder.

Hit the road after breakfast! A panoramic city tour of Tirana will introduce the best preserved and most beautiful samples of Albanian architecture, and drop us off at the town centre for some free time to discover the bustling Skenderbeg square. In the afternoon, continue towards Ohrid, Macedonia and check-in to your comfy hotel. You can rest up after a long day, or join the optional Balkan night with dinner.

After breakfast, set out on a guided orientation walk through Ohrid, one of the Balkans’ most enchanting lakeside towns. Wander through cobbled streets, historic quarters, local shops, and scenic viewpoints as your guide introduces you to the town’s rich heritage, charming atmosphere, and beautiful setting beside Lake Ohrid.

Optionally, continue to the Monastery of St. Naum, one of the region’s most peaceful and picturesque landmarks. Set near the lake’s southern shore, this beautiful site is known for its spiritual atmosphere, lakeside views, and natural surroundings. After time to explore and soak up the scenery, return to Ohrid and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast, say goodbye to the beautiful lakeside town of Ohrid and begin your journey to Skopje, North Macedonia’s lively capital. Sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as you travel from the calm shores of Lake Ohrid towards the energy of the city.

Upon arrival in Skopje, enjoy a guided orientation walk to get your first feel for the capital. Discover its mix of historic streets, grand squares, Ottoman-era charm, riverside views, and modern landmarks as your guide introduces you to the city’s unique character. Afterwards, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast, depart Skopje and make your way to the beautiful Matka Canyon, a peaceful natural escape just outside the city. Take in the dramatic cliffs, calm waters, and fresh mountain scenery as you enjoy time to explore, relax, and soak up one of North Macedonia’s most scenic spots.

After your visit, continue towards Sofia, crossing into Bulgaria as the journey through the Balkans continues. Upon arrival in Sofia, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, with time to unwind or take a first stroll through Bulgaria’s lively capital.

Have your final breakfast on us and start bidding farewells to your travel mates before checking out of the hotel (11:00). Time to start counting days for your next adventure with Travel Talk!