Istanbul to Cairo

Itinerary

Day 1 Istanbul

Experience the electric energy of the Grand Bazaar or head to Topkapi Palace to learn about life in a harem.

Day 2 Pamukkale

After an overnight train journey, spend the day exploring the gleaming travertines. These pools have been renowned for their healing properties since Roman times.

Day 3 Selcuk

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus. Perhaps take a dolmus over the hills to Sirince to sample the local wines.

Days 4-5 Fethiye

Take a 12-island cruise around Fethiye Korfezi or soak up the sun on the iconic Oludeniz beach. Alternatively, try paragliding near Mt Baba or check out the ghost town of Kayakoy.

Day 6 Antalya

Travel to Kaleici, or Old Antalya, to discover its ancient streets. Wander among the graciously restored Ottoman houses and scattered Roman ruins.

Days 7-8 Goreme

Explore valleys dotted with unworldly fairy chimneys and pigeon houses. Maybe cycle to nearby villages for an insight into local culture and cuisine.

Day 9 Nemrut Dagi

Venture into rural Turkey and the ancient lands of King Antiochus. Behold the giant heads of Nemrut Dagi, many of which have toppled from their forlorn bodies.

Day 10 Sanliurfa

Take an optional trip to Haran where Adam and Eve reputedly lived after their expulsion from the Garden of Eden. Experience an overnight stay in the home of an Urfa couple who prepare a traditional spicy feast.

Days 11-12 Aleppo

Discover the ruined citadel, browse in the fabulous covered souq or stroll through the Christian quarters.

Days 13-14 Damascus

Walk through the bustling bazaars of the old city, learn about Syria's tumultuous past, explore the ruins of Palmyra or travel to the 'finest castle in the world' - Krak des Chevaliers.

Day 15 Amman

Cross the border into Jordan.

Days 16-17 Petra

Perhaps stop to float in the Dead Sea en route to the ancient Nabataen city of Petra. Spend time exploring this immense rock-cut complex featured so spectacularly in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Day 18 Wadi Rum

Follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia on a desert safari and spend the night under the stars.

Days 19-20 Red Sea Beach Camp

Cross the Gulf of Aqaba to Egypt. Perhaps snorkel in the Red Sea, walk the long stretch of fine sand or sit down for a leisurely seafood feast.

Day 21 Mt Sinai

Accompanied by a local Bedouin guide, scale the mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Ascend on foot or camelback, and enjoy incredible views across the desert.

Days 22-23 Cairo

This colourful, chaotic city is a fascinating mix of old and new. End the tour with a bang and venture out of the city to Giza, home of the Pyramids and the Sphinx.