Flying Carpet Adventures

26 Aug

Turkey's rich history unfolds like a storybook on the Flying Carpet Tour, a fascinating 15-day journey through some of the country's most significant historical, cultural and natural treasures. From Istanbul's grand mosques and palaces to the ancient cities of Troy, Pergamon and Ephesus, this itinerary offers an immersive look at the civilisations that have shaped modern Turkey.

But this journey is about more than history alone. Along the way, travellers will discover the striking white terraces of Pamukkale, the turquoise waters of Salda Lake, the coastal beauty of Fethiye and Antalya, and the extraordinary landscapes of Cappadocia. Local experiences such as a traditional cooking course and wine tasting add another layer to the journey, providing insight into Turkey's culture, traditions and flavours.

Combining iconic landmarks, lesser-known gems and a comfortable pace, the Flying Carpet Tour is a rewarding way to experience the remarkable diversity of Western Turkey.

15 Days | Start City Istanbul End City Istanbul | Group Size Min 2 Max 12 | Minimum Age 8 Years

Good to Know Before You Go

The Flying Carpet Tour is a Style Tour, offering a well-rounded and fully guided travel experience for those who want to discover Turkey's most iconic destinations with the comfort and convenience of travelling alongside an experienced tour leader. Style Tours are designed to be longer and more leisurely, often including two-night stays in selected destinations, fewer long travel days and a focus on comfortable luxury accommodation throughout the journey.

This style of touring is particularly popular with mature travellers, typically in the older age group, who appreciate a comfortable pace, deeper exploration and the opportunity to experience a destination without feeling rushed. For those seeking a more personalised experience, the itinerary can also be operated on a private basis for individuals, couples, families or groups travelling together.

The tour is rated Moderate, meaning it includes some walking, stairs and longer touring days. It is best suited to travellers with a reasonable level of fitness who are comfortable exploring ancient sites, historical landmarks and a variety of landscapes throughout the journey.

Tour Highlights

From legendary archaeological sites and moving historical landmarks to spectacular natural wonders and authentic cultural encounters, the Flying Carpet Tour showcases some of Turkey's most memorable experiences.

Stand where history was made at Gallipoli, visiting ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair and other significant battlefield memorial
Explore the ancient cities of Troy, Pergamon and Ephesus, uncovering stories of empires, mythology and daily life from centuries past
Experience the spectacular landscapes of Pamukkale and Salda Lake, two of Türkiye's most breathtaking natural attractions
Discover the coastal charm of Fethiye and Antalya, where beautiful scenery meets fascinating history
Immerse yourself in Cappadocia's unique culture, exploring underground cities, fairy chimneys, cave dwellings and enjoying a traditional cooking experience

Tour Itinerary

Welcome to Istanbul!
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore this fascinating city at your own pace.
Overnight Istanbul Hotel Burdock Hotel
After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour through Istanbul's historic Old City, the world's only city spanning two continents. Discover iconic landmarks including the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace, featuring Hagia Irene and the Harem, and the ancient Hippodrome. Later, unwind on a scenic Bosphorus Cruise, sailing between Europe and Asia along one of the world's most famous waterways.
Meals Breakfast Overnight Istanbul Hotel Burdock Hotel
Today, visit the historic battlefields of Gallipoli and gain insight into one of the most significant campaigns of the First World War. Explore key sites including ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, and the original trenches and tunnels that remain as powerful reminders of the past.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Çanakkale Hotel Hilton DoubleTree Canakkale
Step back in time as you explore the legendary city of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the award-winning Troy Museum. Continue to Pergamon, where you'll discover its impressive acropolis, renowned for its magnificent temples, library, and rich cultural heritage.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Kuşadası Hotel Elite World Kusadasi
Immerse yourself in the remarkable history of Ephesus, once one of the ancient world's most important trade and religious centres. Visit highlights including the site of the Temple of Artemis, the Library of Celsus, and the impressive amphitheatre. You'll also explore the Ephesus Archaeology Museum, learn about traditional Turkish carpet weaving, and enjoy a wine tasting in the charming village of Şirince.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Kuşadası Hotel Elite World Kusadasi
Following breakfast, visit the ancient city of Aphrodisias, dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Explore its remarkably preserved stadium, Temple of Aphrodite, Tetrapylon, theatre, and museum before continuing to Pamukkale.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Pamukkale Hotel Adem Pira Hotel
This morning, discover Pamukkale's spectacular white calcium terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy the thermal waters once favoured by the Romans. Later, travel to the stunning Salda Lake, often referred to as the "Turkish Maldives", before continuing south to Fethiye.
Meals Breakfast Overnight Fethiye Hotel Mara Palace Hotel
Today is free for you to enjoy Fethiye at your own pace. Relax by the waterfront, explore the town, or choose from a range of optional excursions available locally.
- Optional 12 Islands Boat Trip and Saklikent Gorge Tour experience at an additional cost
Meals Breakfast Overnight Fethiye Hotel Mara Palace Hotel
Travel to the atmospheric village of Kayaköy, known for its abandoned stone houses and fascinating history. Afterwards, continue to Antalya and visit the Antalya Necropol Museum, home to an impressive collection of archaeological artefacts and exhibits showcasing the region's rich past.
Meals Breakfast Overnight Antalya Hotel Ruin Adalia Hotel
This morning, explore the ancient city of Perge, one of Turkey's most important archaeological sites. Continue to Aspendos to admire its remarkably preserved 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre before returning to Antalya, where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Meals Breakfast Overnight Antalya Hotel Ruin Adalia Hotel
Visit the Mevlana Museum, dedicated to the renowned Sufi mystic and poet Rumi. Explore fascinating exhibits, ancient manuscripts, and learn about the traditions of the Whirling Dervishes. Later, follow part of the historic Silk Road and visit the Çatalhöyük Museum, showcasing one of the world's oldest known settlements.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Konya Hotel Novotel Konya
Journey into Cappadocia, stopping en route at the historic Sultanhani Caravansary, an important resting place for merchants travelling the Silk Road. Later, explore an extraordinary underground city before enjoying dinner in a traditional Turkish home, where you'll have the opportunity to take part in a hands-on cooking experience.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Cappadocia Hotel Gamirasu Hotel
Marvel at Cappadocia's unique landscapes as you visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum and the region's famous fairy chimneys. Continue to Pigeon Valley and Red Valley before exploring Çavuşin Village and the pottery-making town of Avanos, where traditional craftsmanship remains an important local art.
Meals Breakfast, Dinner Overnight Cappadocia Hotel Gamirasu Hotel
Depart early for Turkey's capital city, Ankara. Visit Anıtkabir, the impressive mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of modern Türkiye, before returning to Istanbul.
Meals Breakfast Overnight Istanbul Hotel Burdock Hotel
After breakfast, your tour comes to an end. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey and bid farewell to your fellow travellers as your Turkish adventure concludes.
Meals Breakfast

Note Instead of travelling between Cappadocia and Istanbul by bus, an optional morning flight from Kayseri (Cappadocia) to Istanbul is available at extra cost. Please contact your Travel Expert for a quote. The actual hotels used for any given tour may change due to many reasons such as group size, availability, time of year, hotel standard has dropped or simply we found a better hotel. If and when that happens, it will be to a hotel of equal or higher standard and will be at no extra cost.

What’s included

Complimentary Airport Transfers
Accommodation 4-star+ Hotels (12 nights), Boutique Cave Hotel in Cappadocia (2 nights)
Meals 14 breakfasts, 7 dinners
Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle
Professional English-speaking local tour guides at each site
Wine Tasting & Cooking Course
Entrance fees & Tips (except Driver and Guide)

Activities

Pamukkale & Salda Lake Hierapolis | White Calcium Terraces | Thermal Pools | Salda Lake

Fethiye & Antalya Kayaköy Greek Village | Necropol Museum | Perge | Aspendos Amphitheatre

Special Experiences Traditional cooking course in Cappadocia | Wine tasting in Şirince

Optional activities are also available at an additional charge, including the Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon experience and selected sightseeing excursions in Fethiye

From $7,875 per person share twin

Note Prices based on select departure dates between 27 Mar to 07 Nov 2027 & 25 Mar to 04 Nov 2028. Our 2028 tour prices are currently the same as our 2027 rates as part of a limited-time promotion. Please note that 2028 prices are subject to review and may increase. Secure your place now to take advantage of today's pricing. Children aged between 8 to 11 receive a 25% discount. Single Supplement applies.

- Minimum Age of 8. Whilst there is no Maximum Age set it is assumed the customer is fit enough to take part in the activity or tour. Health documents may be requested.
- Single travellers are obliged to pay Single Supplement and will have the hotel room to themselves.'
- This tour can also be done on a private basis (only you and/or your group)
- Deluxe Room at Adem Pira Hotel in Pamukkale.
- Your booking gives injured sea turtles a second chance. By choosing our tours, you are not only discovering Türkiye’s cultural and natural heritage, but also actively contributing to marine conservation. With every reservation of USD 1,000 or more, we make a donation to support the daily care and feeding of injured sea turtles, specifically Caretta caretta (loggerhead turtles).

Terms & Conditions Prices are per person and are subject to availability at the time of booking. A deposit may be required to confirm a reservation, with full payment due prior to departure. Itineraries, accommodation, sightseeing and transportation arrangements may be amended due to operational requirements, local conditions or circumstances beyond the operator's control. Valid passport, visa (if required) and comprehensive travel insurance are the responsibility of the traveller. Cancellation and amendment fees may apply. Pricing is to be used as a guide, and pricing will be based on your selected departure date. Travel agent & credit card service fees may apply. For full terms & conditions details, please contact our Wanderlust Travel Experts for details.

Interested in this experience? Mention this Deal Code: 1242 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.

ExperienceSmall Group Tour

Karen Mcmahon