Istanbul is a veritable open-air museum, with a hotchpotch of cultural influences and hundreds of years worth of history to explore, thousands even. In addition to the well-known sites (the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace), there are some great new attractions such as the Istanbul Modern (free entrance on Thursdays) and the Sakip Sabanci Museum in Emirgan. Add to this the vibrant cafe culture, ample opportunity to indulge in retail therapy (from the Grand Bazaar to the impressive new breed of mega-malls) and pampering Turkish-style in one of the historic hamams, and you have the recipe for the ultimate short break destination.

Cappadocia is a place unlike any other with a wealth of history and a breathtaking landscape: strange rock formations, the result of volcanic eruptions weathered over the centuries. Early Christians hid from persecution here, carving out cities and churches from the soft rock. It is possible to tour the subterranean cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli; extending to several layers deep, incredibly, entire communities once lived here for weeks, even months at a time. 

Many people don’t realise that Cappadocia is an entire region so to appreciate its sheer size a hot air balloon ride is an absolute must – at sunrise and from a height of 1500 feet. It truly is an awesome experience. The ancient rock churches of Avanos, with their vivid frescoes are another must-see.

The region's rich, volcanic soil is also prime grape-growing territory, with wine production here dating back thousands of years. The new generation of vineyards is pretty impressive and several are open to the public offering tours and wine tastings.

7 nights Twin Centre Istanbul & Cappadocia from £1099 per person
(below is a typical itinenary)

DAY 1 Arrive to Istanbul and transfer to Sultanahmet Palace Hotel located in the old town for 4 nights B&B stay

DAY 2- 4 Days at Leisure in Istanbul

DAY 5 Transfer to the airport for Cappadocia flight. Arrival to Kayseri airport, pick up by our agent. Quick photo stop close to Mount Erciyes. Visit to Karabas, Yilanli and Kubbeli Churches and brief free time in the area. Visit to Sahinefendi Village, old Greek Village Sinasos. Transfer and check-in to Esbelli Evi (Cave House) for your remaining 3 nights B&B stay in Cappadocia. In the afternoon visit the famous 'Fairy Chimneys' in Urgup and Ortahisar Castle. Lunch is at leisure.

DAY 6 Pickup from hotel. Visit to Pigeon Valley, Derinkuyu underground city and Ihlara Valley. Walk along the valley and stop for lunch in a restaurant by the river. Visit the Yaprakhisar village and Selimiye Monastery before returning back to your hotel. Lunch is at leisure.

DAY 7 Visit the Goreme open-air museum, Pasabag fairy chimneys. Avanos pottery demonstration centre and shop. Return to the hotel for free time in the afternoon. Lunch is at leisure.

DAY 8 Transfer to Kayseri airport for onward flight.

Sultanahmet Palce Hotel, Istanbul	Esbelli Evi Hotel, Cappadocia

View Sultanahmet Palace HotelView Esbelli Evi Hotel

We can add any other Turkish resort to the above as well as North Cyprus to make your programme as a three centre.

Antalya, Bodrum and Kas are one of the few poplar destinations to add as well as Kyrenia or Famagusta. The duration of the holiday is flexible so the above itinerary can be changed to accommodate your requirements in all resorts.

7 nights Antalya & Cirali from £799 per person

Includes 3 nights at the Marina Residence in Antalya, 4 nights at the Hotel Nerissa in Cirali (both on a B&B basis), international scheduled flight to and from Antalya and airport transfers. The internal transfer between Antalya and Cirali is also included in the price. However, this can be replaced with car hire if you prefer, giving you the freedom to explore Cirali and the surrounding area independently. Please ask for a car hire quote at the time of booking.

Marina Residence Hotel, Antalya	Nerissa Hotel, Cirali

• View Marina Residence Hotel
• View Hotel Nerissa