Turkey Retreat | Culture, Charm & Connection

Experience Turkey like never before — an all-women’s retreat through Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia, and Antalya. Wander grand bazaars, share stories over Turkish tea, soar above fairy chimneys, and unwind by the turquoise coast.

Explore ancient ruins, cave towns, and city rooftops while reconnecting with yourself and a circle of like-hearted women — with comfort, adventure, and joy woven into every day.

At a Glance

⏱ 8 Days

🧍‍♀️ 12 Women Explorer

🧗‍♀️ Level: Moderate

🛏 Boutique Hotel

🌱 Eco-Conscious

🥾 Active

Photos

Itinerary

Step into the wonder of Turkey with our Women Explorer Retreat — an unforgettable 8-day journey through Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia, and Antalya.
Thoughtfully curated for solo female travelers and women’s travel groups, this experience blends rich history, soul-stirring landscapes, and moments of connection — all guided with care, insight, and heart.

From Istanbul’s rooftop views and spice-scented bazaars to Cappadocia’s surreal balloon-filled skies and the Aegean’s ancient whispers, this journey invites you to explore Turkey the Women Explorer way — with meaning, comfort, and a sense of sisterhood.

    • Welcome to Turkey! After settling into your boutique hotel, we’ll head out for a light stroll through İstiklal Street, visit Galata Tower for sunset views, and enjoy a cozy welcome dinner with Bosphorus views.

    • Accommodation: Boutique Hotel in Istanbul

    • Meals: Dinner

    • Dive into the splendor of old Istanbul with guided visits to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar. After a scenic rooftop lunch, we’ll board an evening flight to Izmir.

    • Accommodation: Boutique Hotel in Izmir

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    • Step back in time at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Then head to the charming hillside village of Sirince for wine tasting and countryside views.

    • Accommodation: Boutique Hotel in Izmir

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    • We’ll take a morning flight to Cappadocia, then visit a local pottery village before checking into your unique cave hotel. Unwind with tea and sunset views over surreal landscapes.

    • Accommodation: Cave Hotel in Cappadocia

    • Meals: Breakfast

    • Start the day with a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride (weather permitting), followed by a hike through Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and valleys. Relax in the afternoon or opt for a traditional Turkish hammam.

    • Accommodation: Cave Hotel in Cappadocia

    • Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    • Take a morning flight to Antalya and soak in the Mediterranean vibe. We’ll explore Kaleiçi, Antalya’s old town, with time to relax at a seaside café or stroll the harbor.

    • Accommodation: Boutique Hotel in Antalya

    • Meals: Breakfast

    • We fly back to Istanbul, leaving time for final shopping, tea breaks, or a visit to the Spice Bazaar. In the evening, we’ll gather one last time for a special farewell dinner.

    • Accommodation: Boutique Hotel in Istanbul

    • Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

    • Group airport transfers to Istanbul International Airport (IST) for onward travel. Take with you memories, laughter, and the deep warmth of this shared journey.

    • Meals: Breakfast

Travel Essentials

Everything you need to know before takeoff.

Packing Tips

  • You’ll receive a full packing checklist in your Travel Guide after booking. Turkey’s terrain ranges from coastal breezes to cool mornings in Cappadocia — we’ll help you pack smart for every climate. No special gear needed — just bring your curiosity and sense of wonder!

Arrival Details

  • Fly Into: Istanbul Airport (IST), Istanbul

  • Meet-Up: Boutique hotel in central Istanbul (details shared after booking)

  • Timing: Please arrive by 3:00 PM on Day 1 to join our welcome dinner

Departure Plans

  • Fly Out Of: Istanbul Airport (IST)

  • Drop-Off Point: Our Istanbul hotel (airport transfers included)

  • When to Leave: Anytime on Day 8 (group airport transfers available)

Optional Add-Ons

  • Want to extend your trip? Add pre- or post-retreat hotel nights in Istanbul or Antalya when booking — ideal if you're arriving early or staying longer to explore at your own pace.

Your Travel Guide

Before your trip begins, you’ll receive a personalized Travel Guide with detailed information, including:

  • ✅ Packing checklist

  • 🌍 Cultural tips

  • 🗣 Language basics

  • 🚨 Emergency contacts

  • 🧳 and more!

⚠️ A minimum of 6 travelers is required to confirm this trip. Please wait to book international flights until you receive your official confirmation from Women Explorer.
Please wait to book flights until your trip is confirmed

Let’s Get Moving

  • Rated 2 – Moderate

    This retreat blends cultural depth with comfort and connection. Expect short domestic flights, scenic drives, guided walking tours, and light hikes — all paced for discovery, not exhaustion.

What to Expect:

  • A thoughtfully curated route through Istanbul, Ephesus, Cappadocia, and Antalya

  • Guided walking tours through Ottoman palaces, ancient ruins, and UNESCO-listed sites

  • A sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys

  • Leisurely coastal strolls and scenic exploration of Kaleiçi (Antalya Old Town)

  • Cultural immersion — traditional Turkish cooking class, pottery village visit, and bazaar wanderings

  • Boutique hotel stays, cave lodging, breathtaking landscapes, and plenty of downtime to connect or reflect

What's Included

🏨 Lodging

  • 7 nights in handpicked boutique hotels, including authentic cave lodging in Cappadocia

  • Twin-sharing rooms with en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning

  • Accommodations in Istanbul, Izmir, Cappadocia, and Antalya

  • Unique features like rooftop terraces, historic architecture, and local charm

🧭 Activities & Experiences

  • All experiences from the itinerary, including:

    • Entry to top sites: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Ephesus, Galata Tower, Cappadocia valleys, and more

    • Hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia (weather permitting)

    • Guided city walks, cultural site tours, and local artisan visits

    • Turkish cooking class, pottery demonstration, and optional hammam

    • Airport transfers on arrival (Istanbul) and departure (Istanbul)

    • All intercity travel: private vans + 4 domestic flights

    • Gratuities for all included excursions

🍽 Meals

  • 7 breakfasts

  • 3 lunches

  • 3 dinners (including welcome and farewell dinners)

  • Gratuities for all included meals

🙋‍♀️ Support & Extras

  • Dedicated Women Explorer host and licensed local guide

  • Personalized Travel Guide with cultural tips, packing checklist, and local insights

  • A thoughtful balance of shared exploration and personal downtime

❌ What’s Not Included

  • International airfare

  • Travel insurance (required)

  • Meals not listed above

  • Optional activities (spa, treatments, etc.)

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Tips for your Women Explorer host (optional but appreciated)

Trip Dates

  • Late Summer Charm
    Enjoy warm, golden evenings and harvest-season energy in the vineyards near Ephesus. Cappadocia skies are clear and perfect for ballooning, and coastal Antalya still has that summer glow — without the crowds.

  • Autumn Magic
    Crisp mornings, soft light, and fewer tourists make October one of the best times to visit Turkey. Wander Istanbul’s old city, sip wine in Sirince, and take in Cappadocia’s dreamlike valleys in full fall beauty.

  • Winter Tranquility
    Perfect for travelers who prefer peaceful travel, twinkling markets, and fewer crowds. Cappadocia may dust with snow, adding magic to your cave stay and balloon views. Istanbul sparkles with festive energy, cozy cafés, and seasonal warmth.

  Let’s Go Turkey  

Starting at

$3,499

Save $200 with our Early Explorer Perk

Book 6+ months in advance and the discount is automatically applied.

Non-Refundable Deposit: $300 due at booking to reserve your spot.

✨ Limited spots. Empower your journey.