Magical Journeys
Türkiye: New ways to explore an ancient land
It’s not surprising Türkiye is the fourth most visited country in the world. Stradling Europe and Asia, it offers a diverse culture, fascinating historical and cultural sites, beautiful beaches, and a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Here, we zero in on three of the country’s top destinations. Can’t decide which one to visit? Your Virtuoso advisor can create an itinerary that combines them all.
İstanbul, the bustling metropolis of Türkiye, is a city full of charm, where the past goes hand in hand with the present and every step brings to light a relic of times gone by. At the crossroads of two continents - Europe and Asia - this spectacular city has absorbed the best of both worlds. With its beautiful historic landmarks, quintessential cuisine, vibrant nightlife, festivals of art and music, a celebration of faith, labyrinths of marketplaces and shopping arcades, the beating heart of İstanbul, and the soul of Bosphorus under the watchful eye of the Maiden's Tower is a traveler's dream.
Stay at Virtuoso preferred hotels and resorts and enjoy exclusive amenities: Upgrade upon arrival, if available • Early check-in and late checkout, if available • Breakfast daily for two per bedroom • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Virtuoso amenity
The moonscape region of Cappadocia, southeast of Ankara, is most famous for its unique geological features called fairy chimneys. Listen as the wind breezes past them, singing their song of the ages, telling the tales of this fantastic land. Cappadocia is home to rock-hewn, UNESCO World Heritage site Christian sanctuaries dating back to the 4th century, or experience cycling adventures, including gravel biking through this historical region. To sense the opulence in these textures is truly an experience in itself. Their cuisine is an excellent example of Anatolia's rich culinary heritage. The quality of local produce is superb, thanks to geographically fertile soil that does much to enhance the flavors of the local dishes and wine, like the Emir grape used to produce a crisp, aromatic white wine.
Stay at Virtuoso preferred hotels and resorts and enjoy exclusive amenities: Upgrade upon arrival, if available • Early check-in and late checkout, if available • Breakfast daily for two per bedroom • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Virtuoso amenity
Aegean crystal-clear waters, pristine nature, secluded bays, enchanting products and genuinely welcoming people… The Aegean region of Türkiye offers an exquisite fusion of classical history, natural beauty and unique experiences.
On this legendary coastline, UNESCO World Heritage Sites overlook small towns and picturesque bays, traditional gullets sail between coves and islands, and villagers still practice age-old artisanal crafts. It’s time to discover the Turkaegean way of life greeting you with the sumptuous heritage of thousands of years.
EXPERIENCES:
- Visit UNSECO World Heritage sites, Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus, Aphrodisias and Pamukkale-Hierapolis
- Tour the Vineyards of Anatolia: the viticulture routes are best experienced between April ‘Bud Breaking’ and early October ‘Harvest Time’
- Follow the Olive Tree Route: discover why Türkiye is one of the top five olive producers in the world
- Alaçatı Herb Festival: celebrate herbs and wild greens of Aegean cuisine in April
- Enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee in a kahvehane
- Visit small villages famous for their pottery artisans and their distinctive red clay
İstanbul
- Take a stroll through history at the Hagia Sophia
- Shop for spices in the Spice Bazaar, or carpets, ornamental lamps, hand-painted ceramics and jewelry at the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world
- Take a boat tour on the Bosphorus
- Explore Dolmabahçe Palace
- Dine at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants throughout İstanbul
- Feast your eyes on Basilica Cistern, a must-see architectural masterpiece
- Visit the heart of the Ottoman: Topkapı Palace
- Travel up Galata Tower for breathtaking, 360° panoramic city views
- Take the ferry to the Princes’ Islands
- Travel back to ancient times in the The İstanbul Archaeological Museums
Cappadocia
- Stay in a cave
- Eat a Turkish breakfast with a view of the fairy chimneys
- Admire the scenery from a hot air balloon
- Visit the famous vineyards and taste the delicious wines
- Walk along the streets (Avanos, Mustafapaşa, Ürgüp, and Göreme) to soak up the architecture and different local lifestyles
- Try clay-pot kebab and local wines for lunch
- Go horseback riding
- Hike on one of the several popular trails
- Participate in a pottery-making workshop
- Watch the sunset at Ortahisar Castle
The Aegean Region
- Book a hotel on a hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea or opt for a peaceful vineyard retreat with distinctive guest houses and rooms
- Make a point to try Aegean specialties, known for olive oil dishes, fresh fruits and vegetables and seafood, Aegean cuisine invites you to a special dining adventure full of unique tastes
- Have your Virtuoso advisor create an itinerary along the “Olive Tree Route” which includes visits to olive groves and farm-to-table dining experiences
İstanbul, the country’s gastronomic epicenter, is home to innumerable fine-dining restaurants. But be sure to check out the amazing
street food too.
