Danube Express Luxury Train: Turkish Treasures

Arrive in the captivating city of Istanbul, where the East meets the West in a dazzling tapestry of history, culture, and architecture. You'll be welcomed and transferred to your five-star hotel, the Four Seasons Sultanahmet (or similar). In the evening, savour a sumptuous welcome reception dinner, the perfect setting to meet with your fellow travellers. Why not consider extending your stay in this magical city? Istanbul offers an endless array of treasures waiting to be explored. Contact us for tailored recommendations to ensure your time here is as immersive as possible.

Your journey through Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome Square, the former social heart of Byzantium, where chariot races once captivated emperors and crowds alike. Continue to the Blue Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel crowned by six minarets and adorned with over 20,000 blue tiles. This is followed by the incomparable Hagia Sophia, a magnificent structure that served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing the fusion of Christian and Islamic art. After a refined lunch at the Deraliye Restaurant, a venue offering traditional Ottoman delicacies, you'll visit the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, once home to the sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Step inside its ornate chambers and imagine the intrigues that shaped the course of history. Explore the haunting Underground Cistern, an eerie yet beautiful marvel of ancient engineering. Before enjoying a private Bosphorus

Your journey through Istanbul begins with a visit to the Hippodrome Square, the former social heart of Byzantium, where chariot races once captivated emperors and crowds alike. Continue to the Blue Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel crowned by six minarets and adorned with over 20,000 blue tiles. This is followed by the incomparable Hagia Sophia, a magnificent structure that served as a cathedral, mosque, and now a museum, showcasing the fusion of Christian and Islamic art. After a refined lunch at the Deraliye Restaurant, a venue offering traditional Ottoman delicacies, you'll visit the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, once home to the sultans of the Ottoman Empire. Step inside its ornate chambers and imagine the intrigues that shaped the course of history. Explore the haunting Underground Cistern, an eerie yet beautiful marvel of ancient engineering. Before enjoying a private Bosphorus

Ephesus This morning, wake to the vibrant city of Izmir, one of Turkey's most important port cities with a rich blend of Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences. After a visit to Agora, a well-preserved marketplace from the Roman era, the journey continues to the fabled ancient city of Ephesus. Wander through the marble streets of Ephesus, where grand temples, amphitheatres, and the awe-inspiring Library of Celsus remain as a testament to the city's former glory as one of the most important cities of the ancient Mediterranean. Feel history come alive as you stand where the philosopher Heraclitus once walked. After this enchanting tour, you'll re-board the train, ready for the next destination.

Hierapolis & Laodicea Arrive in Denizli for a full-day exploration of the mesmerising ruins of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built atop the famous hot springs, this Greco-Roman city was a spiritual and healing centre. Stroll through the ancient necropolis, and take in the grandeur of the theatre, with sweeping views over the surrounding landscape. A visit to Laodicea follows, another ancient city that played a pivotal role in early Christian history and was known for its wealth and textiles. The juxtaposition of sacred history and silent ruins will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Wake to the capital city, Ankara, a bustling metropolis where the pulse of modern Turkey beats strong. Your visit will include the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations, a treasure trove of artefacts that trace the timeline of this region's civilisations, from the earliest Neolithic settlements to the Hittites and beyond. Next, pay homage to Turkey's founding father at the grandiose Mausoleum of Ataturk. Set atop a hill, this monumental structure is not only a shrine to one of history's great leaders but also an architectural masterpiece, embodying the strength and ambition of a newly born nation. Enjoy lunch at the elegant Divan ukurhan, a historic inn turned into a luxury hotel, before re-boarding your train.

Enjoy your final breakfast onboard, before arriving in Kayseri and transferring to Cappadocia, a place like no other on Earth. Cappadocia's surreal landscapes are formed by thousands of years of volcanic activity and erosion, creating whimsical rock formations and vast cave networks. Your tour will begin with a visit to the Ozkonak Underground City, a hidden subterranean labyrinth that once sheltered entire communities from invaders. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Bizim Ev Restaurant, and then venture into the mystical realms of Pasabag and Devrent Valleys, where fairy chimneys and dreamlike landscapes transport you to another world. As the day ends, relax in your luxurious hotel and prepare for an unforgettable night.

This day begins with an optional hot-air balloon ride (available for a small supplement), an adventure of a lifetime. As dawn breaks, drift over the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, watching the sun rise and casting golden hues over the fairy-tale valleys below. This unparalleled experience allows you to see the natural beauty of Cappadocia from a truly privileged vantage point. Alternatively, watch the magical display from the ground - a perfect background for your photographs. After this exhilarating start, your exploration continues with a visit to the Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds some of the finest rock-cut churches in the world, adorned with ancient frescoes. A stop at Pigeon Valley, Uchisar, and Ortahisar towns will round off your day, before enjoying a lavish farewell dinner at the spectacular Maara Konak.

On your final day, after a delicious breakfast, bid farewell to Cappadocia's ethereal landscapes as you are transferred to the airport. Though your journey may be concluding, the memories and treasures of Turkey will remain with you forever. Tour Inclusions Accommodation Quality pre and post-tour accommodation in Istanbul and Cappadocia 2 hotel nights in Istanbul 4 nights on board the Golden Eagle Danube Express 2 hotel nights in Istanbul Service Cabin attendant service including evening turndown Experienced Tour Management team Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board Arrival and departure transfers All gratuities - on and off the train Luggage porterage throughout the journey Dining Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages 8 Breakfasts,