You will fly from Germany to Antalya and transfer by public transport to your accommodation. A group dinner awaits you in the evening, where you will meet the other travelers. If you arrive after 9:00 PM, a cold dish will be served. You will spend your first night in Antalya.

Your morning begins with a stroll through Antalya's Old Town, where you can soak up the atmosphere of its narrow streets and small shops. Next, your route takes you through pine forests and the stunning scenery of the Taurus Mountains to Konya, the former Seljuk capital. There, after some free time, you'll learn more about the mystic Mevlana and the dervish order he founded, with its cult of the whirling dervishes. The Mevlana Museum's mausoleum offers a fascinating insight into his philosophy. Afterward, you'll visit the Seljuk-era Alaeddin Mosque and wander through the bazaar, where you can sample local delicacies. Overnight in Konya. (B)

On the third day, you'll travel across the Konya Plain, discovering a section of the Silk Road and admiring the impressive caravanserais along the way. You'll stop at the 13th-century Sultanhani Caravanserai and soak up the atmosphere of this ancient resting place for merchants and caravans. The journey continues to the lush Ihlara Gorge, which resembles a Garden of Eden amidst the arid landscape. You'll walk along the riverbanks in the shade of the trees and discover monks' cells that once served as a refuge. Later, you will arrive at your accommodation in Cappadocia, where you will spend three nights and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner each evening. (B/L/D)

If you wish, you can take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise over Cappadocia (optional). After breakfast, you will visit Uchisar with its imposing castle, which you will climb to enjoy panoramic views of Cappadocia. During a hike through Pigeon Valley, you'll be able to admire the curious rock formations up close. For lunch, you'll try Testi Kebab, a regional specialty made with meat, vegetables, and spices, cooked in a clay pot in the oven. Later, you will visit the Zelve Valley, where you will find numerous rock-cut dwellings and marvel at the ancient cave village. To conclude the day, you will see the famous fairy chimneys in the Pasabag Valley, the region's typical volcanic tuff pyramids. Optionally, you can witness a whirling dervish ceremony at a historic caravanserai in the evening. (B/L/D)

Today, you'll delve into the underground world of Kaymakli, one of Cappadocia's subterranean cities. There, you'll discover how Christians found refuge from persecution and admire the underground passageways and chambers. You will visit a carpet weaving workshop and discover how artistic carpets are created and what craftsmanship means to Anatolia. Later, your journey will take you to the pottery village of Avanos, where you can admire traditional pottery and experience firsthand the vibrant life and atmosphere of the town. A visit to a Turkish family offers you an authentic glimpse into everyday life, and you can enjoy a picnic in the family's garden with local delicacies. Next, you will explore the famous Göreme Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire churches and frescoes carved directly into the tuff rock. (F/P/A)

After breakfast, you say goodbye to Cappadocia and take the train on the Baghdad railway line to the Cilician Gate, through which great military leaders and kings once passed. In Tarsus, the birthplace of the Apostle Paul, you will visit Paul's Fountain and Cleopatra's Gate. After lunch in Tarsus, you will continue your journey to the Mediterranean coast and the city of Mersin, where you will spend the night. (B/L/D)

Today you'll explore the Mediterranean coast and the Taurus Mountains, enjoying spectacular views. You'll visit the Corician Caves, two impressive chasms in the limestone known as "Heaven and Hell," and descend to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rocks and the underground river. Afterwards, you will visit the 3rd-century fortress of Mamure Kalesi and enjoy your lunch break in Anamur. The journey continues through well-known places like Alanya, Manavgat, and Side before arriving in Antalya. In the evening, you'll celebrate the trip with a glass of wine and a farewell dinner, and spend the night in Antalya. (B/L/D)

Today you and your travel companions begin your journey home. You will take public transportation to the airport and fly back. (F)