TURKEY
Luxury Tour Turkey
Discover the vibrancy of Turkey, a transcontinental country with a fascinating history, intertwined with stunning landscapes. Experience the fairy-chimney rock formations of the Cappadocian valleys, Istanbul’s world-renowned historical sites set against the impressive backdrop of the Bosphorus Strait, and enjoy pristine beaches and turquoise waters from your private boat on the Aegean Coast.
A Taste of Blue Parallel's Insider Access
- Exclusive private access to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, and Göreme Open Air Museum, Ephesus, and many other monuments upon request
- Private boating off the Turquoise Coast
- Private hot air balloon ride over the rock valleys of Cappadocia
- Special appointments with the most reputable vendors for jewelry and rugs in Istanbul
- Private barbecue in the White Valley of Cappadocia
The Discovery
- Istanbul
- Cappadocia
- Ephesus Region
- Aegean Coast
The Adventure
- Hot air balloon ride
- Hiking
- Sailing
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
Photography
Itinerary
Luxury Travel Turkey
Please note: this private Turkey tour is an example, as all of our luxury journeys are custom-made.
Istanbul (4 nights)
Your luxury Turkey tour begins in Istanbul, where you will be greeted at the airport and taken by private transfer to your hotel to relax. In the afternoon, a scholar will give you an overview of the local history and culture over a Turkish tea.
Enjoy an exploration of the city where you will discover the different periods of Turkish history: from the Byzantine Empire and the rise of the Ottoman sultans, to the establishment of its modern-day society. Each day focuses on one of these different eras. In the morning of your day experiencing the Byzantine period, visit the world-renowned Hagia Sophia. This site attracts nearly 9 thousand visitors per day, and with Blue Parallel, you may visit in private, prior to official opening hours. Later, see the other sights from the Byzantine period including the Basilica Cistern, the Alexander Sarcophagus, the Great Palace Mosaic Museum, the old city walls, and the Chora Church, which can also be arranged in private upon request. After experiencing the Byzantine period, you will visit the landmarks from the Ottoman era including Topkapi Palace (which can be seen in private upon request), the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque, and Rüstem Pasha Mosque. You will also be taken shopping in the city’s famous markets of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. We can book special appointments for you with the most reputable vendors in jewelry, rugs, or other items. Finally, see the sights from Turkey’s modern era as it began to attract European influence in its architecture and style. Visit the residence of the last Sultans, Dolmabahçe Palace, and explore the vibrant Taksim district. You will also be taken on a Bosphorus cruise on a private boat, and as you go up this continental divide, you will take in views from the water of the historical mansions and palaces which dot the flanking hills. Later, enjoy the unique experience of a Turkish bath to relax after your excursions. Fly to the mysterious region of Cappadocia to enjoy the natural beauty of its striking rock formations and valleys, and to visit the incredible churches carved out of caves by the Byzantines. On your first afternoon, go on a hike in the White Valley, during which you will enjoy a Turkish barbecue prepared especially for you, as the sun goes down.
No luxury Turkey trip is complete without a private hot air balloon ride across the valleys. Start your following morning by with your first overview of the area as you admire the rocky valleys from above. Later visit the Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you will learn about the civilizations as you admire the ceiling paintings, frescoes and mosaics. Afterwards, explore the Tokalı Kilise, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, this site is known for its “fairy-chimney” rock formations, in which many Christian churches were carved directly out of the rock. In addition to its historical ruins and natural beauty, Cappadocia is a center for living culture as well, having been a magnet for artisans, potters, and silk makers for millennia. We will take you to Avanos where you can enjoy a pottery & rug-making demonstration and later witness a performance of the famed whirling dervishes, which have been recognized by UNESCO as an element of cultural significance for humanity. Fly to Izmir, where you will be greeted and taken to the hillside town of Sirince for lunch. Later, visit the world-famous ancient Greek city of Ephesus with your expert guide. Ephesus was a hub of Mediterranean commerce and culture for many centuries, and its preserved Library of Celsus (built in 120 A.D.) is one of the most prominent examples of Greek civilization surviving today. The city itself is widely regarded as one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the Western world. The following day, depart Sirince and continue your journey to the Aegean coast, visiting Priene and Didyma. These Greek cities are noted for their historical beauty. You will arrive at the elegant Amanruya resort facing the Aegean Sea where you will spend the final days of your luxury Turkey tour relaxing. The property features private pavilions, pools and a serene beach club with multiple terraces to enjoy the beautiful views of the turquoise water.
You will be taken out in your private traditional Turkish schooner (known as a gület) to explore the nearby islands of Karaada and Orakada, enjoying an exquisite Mediterranean lunch aboard your vessel. Additionally, you will get to visit the jet-set beach spot of Göltürkbükü. On your final day, fly to Istanbul, where you will be assisted with your international flight home.
Cappadocia (2 nights)
Ephesus Region (1 night)
Aegean Coast (3 nights)
| Destinations | Travel time | ||||
|
1hr 15min | ||||
|
1.5hrs | ||||
|
1hr | ||||
|
2.5hrs | ||||
|
1hr 10min |
Recommended Extensions
Luxury Tour Turkey
- Take a private gulet (a traditional wooden sailing boat) along the Aegean Coast, discovering the inlets, islets and pristine beaches of the region.
Luxury Tour Greece
- Continue on to Greece, for a spectacular journey into the cradle of Western civilization by private helicopter and yacht.
Luxury Tour Morocco
- Discover Morocco’s soaring High Atlas Mountains, the red city of Marrakesh, the expansive Sahara Desert, and the breathtaking oasis of Skoura.
Price Reference
| Recommended stay | 10-12 days | |
| Price reference (11 days, private party of 2) |
Starting at $24,000 per passenger | |
| Price reference (11 days, private party of 4) |
Starting at $18,000 per passenger | |
| Price reference (11 days, private party of 6) |
Starting at $17,000 per passenger |
Note: Prices will vary based on the specifics of your itinerary and the number of passengers in your party.
What is included in your private Turkey tour:
- Luxury accommodations at
- Four Seasons at the Bosphorus or Ciragan Palace (Istanbul)
- Museum Hotel (Cappadocia)
- Güllü Konaklari (Sirince)
- Amanruya (Aegean Coast)
- Services of Blue Parallel hosts and private specialized guides throughout the journey
- All special events, private guided tours, private excursions, private outdoor activities, spa treatments, entrance fees
- A Blue Parallel team composed of a personal travel expert in our offices, private hosts in each destination, and a “behind the scenes” logistical expert who monitors every step of your luxury Turkey tour. The team is on call 24-hours a day during a trip
- All internal transportation
- Exclusive access to a number of special sites in private
- Some meals
- A Blue Parallel customized travel kit that you will receive prior to departure
