Welcome at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Vicenza Hotel 4* or similar

Day dedicated to discovering Istanbul’s historical treasures. Visit to majestic Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture renowned for its immense dome and fascinating history. Continue to the spectacular Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets and magnificent İznik tiles. Discovery of the Hippodrome, once the centre of public life in Constantinople, where several iconic monuments still stand. Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, immersion in the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest covered markets, with thousands of shops selling handicrafts, textiles, spices and jewellery. (B-L)

Free morning or optional half-day excursion ($): Bosphorus cruise, visit to the Spice Market and lunch at a fish restaurant. In the afternoon, departure for Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. The Ankara Hotel 4* or similar (B)

Discovery of Ankara, the Turkish capital, with a visit to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, one of the country’s most important museums. Visit to the impressive Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the Republic of Türkiye. In the afternoon, drive to Cappadocia along the spectacular Salt Lake (Tuz Gölü), renowned for its vast white expanses and unique scenery. Cappadoce Zemi Hotel 4* or similar (B-D)

Early in the morning, opportunity to take a spectacular hot-air balloon flight ($). Discovery of a fascinating underground city carved into the rock to shelter local populations. Journey through the region’s iconic valleys with their unique volcanic formations. Lunch at a local restaurant. Visit to a Turkish carpet workshop to discover ancestral craftsmanship and traditional weaving techniques. Dinner and overnight stay in Cappadocia. (B-L-D)

Departure for Konya, through the vast landscapes of Anatolia. En route, stop at an impressive Seljuk caravanserai, a former fortified roadside inn that welcomed merchants, travellers and caravans journeying along the great trade routes of the Silk Road. Upon arrival in Konya, discovery of the Mevlana Museum and the mausoleum of the renowned poet and mystic Rumi. Discovery of the spiritual heritage of the whirling dervishes and the history of the Mevlevi Order. Bayir Diamond Hotel 4* or similar (B-D)

Departure for Antalya with a stop at Perge, one of the most important ancient cities of Pamphylia. Its colonnaded streets, baths and majestic ruins bear witness to the prosperity of the Roman era. Continue to Aspendos, famous for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman theatre, considered one of the finest in the ancient world. Lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to Antalya, a beautiful seaside resort on the Mediterranean coast. Best Western Antalya Khan 4* or similar (B-L)

Discovery of Kaleiçi, Antalya’s historic heart, where cobblestone streets, restored Ottoman houses and flower-filled courtyards reflect the rich heritage of this ancient port city. Walk through this charming district, with its colourful façades, small shops and traditional cafés. Continue to the historic harbour, nestled at the foot of the city walls and offering magnificent views of the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Visit to a renowned jewellery store featuring a collection of gold jewellery and precious stones, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs. (B)

Drive to Pamukkale, the famous “Cotton Castle,” one of Türkiye’s most remarkable natural wonders. Renowned for its impressive white travertine terraces shaped by mineral-rich thermal springs, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers spectacular scenery. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and remainder of the afternoon at leisure to enjoy the facilities and thermal pools. Pamukkale Richmond Thermal Hotel 4* or similar (B)

Discovery of Hierapolis, a prestigious ancient thermal city located in the heart of Pamukkale. Visit to its exceptional heritage, including its remarkably well-preserved theatre, temples, ancient baths and vast necropolis. Lunch at a local restaurant. Drive to Kuşadası, a charming seaside resort on the Aegean coast. Dinner and overnight stay in Kuşadası. Proxima Hotel 4* or similar (B-L-D)

Discovery of the spectacular archaeological site of Ephesus, one of the most impressive ancient cities in Asia Minor. Discovery of its marble streets lined with magnificent ruins, its famous Library of Celsus and its imposing theatre, which could accommodate thousands of spectators, all reflecting the refinement and prosperity of this ancient Roman metropolis. Lunch at a local restaurant. Visit to a leather centre renowned for the quality of its creations, with a presentation of various manufacturing techniques. (B-L-D)

Departure for Bergama, home to the ancient city of Pergamum, one of the greatest intellectual and cultural centres of the ancient world. Visit to the Asclepion, a remarkable healing sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. Discovery of this exceptional site, also associated with the renowned physician Galen, whose work had a profound influence on the history of medicine. Dinner and overnight stay in Bergama. La Bella Hotel 4* or similar (B-D)

Drive to Bursa, the first major capital of the Ottoman Empire, nestled at the foot of majestic Mount Uludağ. Renowned for its rich Ottoman heritage, historic mosques and centuries-old silk-trading tradition, the city stands out for its authentic atmosphere and importance in Turkish history. Continue to Istanbul. Vicenza Hotel 4* or similar (B)

Transfer to the airport. (B)