Turkey Holidays

Cappadocia is one of the best places in the world for a hot-air balloon flight. With its soaring boulders, pigeon houses, deep canyons and fairy chimneys, there’s nowhere else like it. During this magical experience, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Cappadocia as you float above its lunar-like landscape. Your adventure begins with a light breakfast while you watch the crew inflate the balloon. Then you’ll climb into the basket for a gentle take-off before reaching full height – at times, the excellent flying conditions mean you’ll even drift between the fairy chimneys. Fly through impressive valleys, each with distinctive rock formations and colours, and then float up over rippled ravines. Back on the ground, a Champagne celebration and your flight certificate await. This is an unforgettable experience for couples and honeymooners – it’s also a fantastic way for groups of family and friends to make memories together.

• Duration: half day
• Departing daily from Cappadocia
• Departs year round
• Group experience

The best way to get to know a destination is to immerse yourself in it, and this full-day sightseeing tour with an expert guide will give you a deeper understanding of this otherworldly region. Your experience begins with a visit to the fascinating underground city of Kaymaklı – one of the deepest underground cities in Cappadocia, where a maze of tunnels and rooms are carved eight levels deep. Next, walk around the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Göreme Open Air Museum, home to some of the most remarkable rock-cut churches from the 10th-12th centuries. The frescoes here are particularly beautiful. Your guide will take you on to Pigeon Valley, which gets its name from the pigeon houses that have been carved into the landscape. Pigeons have always been important to the Cappadocian people, providing food and fertiliser for the poor soil. In Devrent Valley, you’ll have fun trying to work out the animal-shaped rocks (the most famous one is shaped like a camel!). Visit Monks Valley (Paşabağları), where the mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys with twin and triple rock caps are unique even for Cappadocia. The final stop is Avanos, known for its pottery. The Red River has supplied many generations of craftspeople with the red clay used to create their art, and pottery has been produced here as far back as around 2000 BC.

• Duration: full day
• Time: 10am to 6pm
• Departing daily from Cappadocia
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Experience the Grand Bazaar from a unique birds-eye view on this extraordinary James Bond-esque tour. Guided by a local expert, you’ll hop from rooftop to rooftop as you soak up stunning skyline vistas and feel the pulsating energy from the lively alleys below. When you’re not busy taking holiday snaps, you’ll learn of the rich history of one of the world’s most iconic bazaars. Once your feet are firmly back on the ground, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the bazaar’s bustling backstreets, where Ottoman traditions and the modern day intertwine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, getting lost in winding lanes as souvenir-filled shops lure you in.

A rich tapestry of flavours, Istanbul’s culinary scene is bursting with mouth-watering delights – and you can experience it for yourself on this gastronomic adventure through Istanbul. Led by a local, you’ll follow in the footsteps of chef, writer and explorer, Anthony Bourdain, on a private indulgent food tour. Hop from traditional restaurants and up-and-coming eateries as you sample authentic delicacies, from sweet baklavas to flavour-filled dürüms. Not forgetting Turkey’s traditional tipple, raki.

Whether you’re looking for an exciting introduction to Turkey’s culinary scene or just fancy a fun-filled afternoon, this hands-on cooking class makes a sumptuous addition to your itinerary. And with it being just half a day, it’s easy to squeeze it in. Grab an apron, roll up your sleeves and get ready to show off your skills as you prepare three authentic Turkish recipes. After you’ve done the hard work, it’s time to indulge. Sit back and relax as you savour traditional dishes bursting with spicy aromas and fiery flavours, all whilst sipping on a crisp glass of local wine.

Embark on a spiritual journey as you experience the Sema ceremony, a mesmerising ritual of the whirling dervishes said to achieve perfection through mind and love. Beginning at 7pm every evening, this extraordinary tour offers a glimpse into Turkey’s rich and fascinating culture. Have your camera ready as the music and moves of the ceremony leave you in awe. After that you’ll get to browse the exhibition, where you can delve even deeper into the dervish world. Spot objects used in the ceremony, admire intricate dervish statues and look out for the video shows offering a unique perspective of the ceremony.