April 11 – 20, 2027 TURKEY | Optional Add-on MALTA APR 20–23

Adventure is calling on our new 12-day Turkey and Malta escape, with turquoise dreams and Mediterranean bliss! Ditch the guidebooks for typical tours and travel through Turkey the way it’s meant to be experienced. You may have been here before, but it’s always worthy of another visit—especially when staying at the historic and legendary Pera Palace, which is more a museum than a hotel.

We cover four regions in 9 days, from unique tours in Istanbul to ballooning over dreamy Cappadocia. Antalya and its islands along the turquoise coast are the “Maldives of Turkey,” and you’ll love our all-inclusive Hilton resort with seven restaurants and a beach vibe to help you totally unwind.

Dozens of our past groups loved AFS Turkey trips for our iconic Jeep Safari, the Cave Hotel, bazaars, whirling dervishes, hammam baths, cooking class, and more.

Keep the adventure rolling onto the nearby island country of Malta—calm, compact, and walkable, with medieval streets to wander. Experience the warm hospitality; everyone here speaks English.

Our Maltese adventure includes culinary wonders, UNESCO sites, basilicas, historic citadels, wine tastings, and more.

You asked for it. Now your European dreams can come true in full living color, where two countries combine over 8,000 years of history.

For flavors, stories, and laughs, this one is the ultimate bucket list destination!

- Accommodation on twin / Double sharing room basis at listed hotels above or equivalent ( In

case of Single room please add single room supplement ).

- Buffet Breakfast at all hotels

- Stay in Ultra all inclusive resort in Antalya.

- Welcome dinner at local restaurant

- Whirling dervishes show in Cappadocia

- Jeep safari in Cappadocia

- Cooking class with lunch in Cappadocia

- 01 bottled water person per day during the tour in the vehicle.Page 8 of 8

- All transfers, sightseeing’s and excursions by air-conditioned coach.

- Assistance on arrival/departure by airport representative.

- Accompanied English speaking guides

- Entrance fees to monuments as per the given programme.

- All taxes and services charges

Includes: 

·      03 nights’ accommodation on twin/double sharing room basis at listed hotels 

·      Bed and breakfast in Malta.

·      Daily breakfast served at the hotel.

·      Guided Three Cities Tour of Malta, covering Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea.

·      Wine tasting experience with light lunch platters at a local winery in Paola (including a premium package).

·      Valletta City tour, including visits to Upper Barracca Gardens, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Oratory of the Cathedral.

·      Full-day Gozo Tour, including visits to Ta Pinu Cathedral, St. George Basilica, Citadella, and more.

·      Lunch at Ta Frenc Restaurant in Gozo.

·      All park entrance fees for sites and attractions.

·      Bottle of Mineral water daily in the bus 

·      Government taxes and service charges.

Air Note August 20, 2026- 

Flights are filling up quickly all over the world, and most are near full capacity. Please remember that airfare prices are not guaranteed until your group tickets are issued. Almost everyone is booking both Turkey and Malta, which means you’ll need four flights in total: three domestic Turkish flights (currently $495) and one flight to Malta (currently $260).

It’s important that the entire group is on the same flights with eight airport transfers. Once we receive deposits from 20 people, we’ll send you a separate invoice for these flights. This allows us to secure your tickets at the current prices. If you book after this point, your ticket may cost more. The final payment for the land portion is due 100 days before departure.

Tonight, your adventure begins! Grab your passport and meet your crew for a late-night flight to Istanbul. Get comfy—your overnight journey sets the stage for a trip packed with vibrant culture, legendary eats, and epic stories.

Highlight: Welcome Dinner
Merhaba, Turkey! Touch down and meet your local guide, who’ll whisk you straight to the legendary Pera Palace Hotel—a place oozing with old-world charm and tales of travelers past. Tonight, gather for a delicious welcome dinner. Raise a glass to new friends and the excitement ahead!
Overnight: Pera Palace, Istanbul
Meals: Dinner

Highlight: Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Spice Bazaar, Grand Bazaar
Ready for a history fix? Stand in awe beneath the Blue Mosque’s famous tiles, wander the ancient Hippodrome, and marvel at Hagia Sophia’s grandeur. Descend into the mysterious Underground Cistern, then lose yourself in the opulence of Topkapi Palace. Wrap up the day in the riot of color and sound that is the Spice and Grand Bazaars—don’t forget to haggle!
Overnight: Pera Palace, Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast

Highlight: Red Valley, Avcilar Valley, Uchisar Castle, Love Valley, Whirling Dervish Ceremony
Hop a morning flight to Cappadocia, where you’ll check into your dreamy Utopia Cave Hotel. This afternoon, explore the surreal Red and Avcilar Valleys and climb to Uchisar Castle for panoramic views. As evening falls, witness the swirling, hypnotic Whirling Dervish ceremony—a truly magical experience.
Overnight: Utopia Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast

Highlight: Optional Hot Air Balloon, Kılıçlar Valley, Pasabag, Çavuşin Castle, Jeep Safari
Fancy a sunrise hot air balloon ride? (Trust us, it’s legendary—don’t miss it!) Later, discover Love Valley’s whimsical rock formations, explore ancient churches at the Göreme Open-Air Museum, and climb to Çavuşin Castle. This afternoon, bounce through hidden valleys on a thrilling off-road jeep safari.
Overnight: Utopia Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast

Highlight: Village school visit & Turkish Cooking Class
Start your day with a heartwarming visit to a local school—bring supplies, share smiles, and get a true taste of Turkish hospitality. Then, tie on an apron for a hands-on cooking class. Learn family recipes, laugh with locals, and feast on your delicious creations. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak in the cave hotel vibes.
Overnight: Utopia Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Highlight: Aspendos, Düden Waterfalls, Antalya Old Town, Ultra All-Inclusive Resort
Catch a morning flight to Antalya and step into a world of sun and history. Marvel at the ancient Roman theater of Aspendos, stroll through lush Düden Waterfalls, and wander the lively lanes of Kaleiçi Old Town. Check in to your ultra all-inclusive resort—DoubleTree by Hilton Kemer—think endless eats, seven bars, a private beach, and pure relaxation.
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton, Kemer
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s all about you. Chill by the pool, hit the private beach, or join an optional boat cruise along the turquoise coast. Maybe indulge in a Turkish hammam or explore Antalya’s marina. However you spend it, soak up every sun-soaked moment.
Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton, Kemer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wave goodbye to the coast and board your flight back to Istanbul. Once you land, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening—perfect for last-minute shopping or one more Turkish coffee.
Overnight: Airport Express Plus Hotel, Istanbul
Meals: Breakfast

Or extend to Malta on the 20th

Your Maltese journey begins the moment you land, with the sun warming your face as you step out of the airport. Even before you check into your hotel, the sense of history is palpable—the kind you can feel in the stone air and the salt breeze. This first day is all about discovering the heart of Malta’s story in the legendary Three Cities: Cospicua, Vittoriosa, and Senglea. These fortified waterfront neighborhoods, resting across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, are where Malta’s soul lives.

Wandering the winding streets of Cospicua, you’ll pass under the imposing double walls that once guarded the city from invaders, with centuries-old churches and quiet squares revealing themselves around every turn. In Vittoriosa, the oldest of the three, the legacy of the Knights of St. John is everywhere—a city of noble palaces and grand churches, where you can step inside the Inquisitor’s Palace or the Malta Maritime Museum, or simply stand atop Fort St. Angelo and look out over the harbor that has seen so much. Senglea, the smallest but perhaps the most atmospheric, is perched on a strategic point and crowned by the Gardjola Gardens, a lookout that gives you sweeping views of Valletta and the water below. As you stroll the narrow lanes and admire the parish church of Il-Bambina, you begin to sense how these cities aren’t just relics—they’re living, breathing parts of Malta’s present. By evening, you’re free to dive into Malta’s restaurant scene, with the day’s discoveries still fresh in your mind.

Overnight : Airport Express Plus Hotel

Malta might be tiny, but its story is anything but small. Over centuries, waves of different cultures have left their mark here, from the mysterious Neolithic temple builders to the Phoenicians, Romans, and Byzantines. St. Paul famously introduced Christianity to Malta after his shipwreck in 60 A.D. Napoleon’s troops arrived in 1798, but their stay was short—by 1800, the British were in charge, shaping much of modern Malta until independence in 1964. Today, Malta is a republic, a member of the EU, and a place where ancient history and contemporary culture meet under nearly 300 days of sunshine every year.

Why Visit Malta?
Malta is closer than you think—less than three hours from major European cities, with excellent international connections. Maltese and English are both official languages, and many locals speak a third language as well. The island’s compact size means you’ll spend less time in transit, leaving you more time to explore. With mild winters and long, sunny days, Malta is a year-round destination. Beyond its famed beaches, Malta offers history, culture, nightlife, and adventure—all packed into one remarkable island.

New voco Hotel - Nestled in the vibrant heart of St. Julian's, voco Malta offers an idyllic urban escape just steps away from St. George's Bay. Begin your adventure on the fourth floor, where the welcoming reception and chic lounge bar lead out to a sprawling 1,300 sqm terrace. Elevate your stay with exclusive amenities all day dining, and the stylish rooftop heated pool, ensuring enjoyment even during the cooler months.

Indulge in culinary delights at Lumi restaurant, where breathtaking views over St. George's Bay enhance the flavours of the California-inspired dishes. With the finest shopping, entertainment, and nightlife merely a stroll away, voco Malta places you at the centre of the islands vibrant culture. 

Just across the road, accessible via a convenient bridge, lies an extension of our facilities designed to enhance your experience further. Here, you can unwind in a luxurious spa featuring a traditional hammam, maintain your fitness routine in our well equipped gym, or conduct business in our versatile meeting rooms. Additional dining options in the complex include a variety of restaurants and bars, perfect for casual meetings or elegant evening soirees.

voco Malta is not just a hotel; its a testament to sustainability. Setting the benchmark for eco-friendly practices on the island, our design maximizes the utilization of sustainable resources and renewable energy. 

Highlight:

• Three Cities Tour: Vittoriosa (Birgu), Cospicua (Bormla), Senglea (Isla)

Begin your journey with a morning departure from Istanbul airport (IST) for Turkish Airlines Flight TK 1369. The flight departs at 08:15 AM and arrive at Malta International Airport (MLA) at 09:55 AM.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in (early checkin subject to availability) and a brief period of rest before the day’s activities begin.

Immersive Exploration of the Three Cities

Your first day in Malta is dedicated to discovering the island’s historic heart: the Three Cities-Vittoriosa, Cospicua, and Senglea. Located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, these cities are among Malta’s oldest settlements, each steeped in centuries of maritime and military history.

• Cospicua (Bormla): Begin your tour in Cospicua, renowned for its impressive double fortification walls, which once protected the city from invasions. Stroll through its winding streets and admire the blend of old churches, squares, and authentic Maltese architecture.

• Vittoriosa (Birgu): Next, head to Vittoriosa, the oldest of the Three Cities and a former base of the Knights of St. John. A guided walking tour will take you through its atmospheric alleyways lined with noble palaces and historic churches. Key sights include the Inquisitor’s Palace, Malta Maritime Museum, and the imposing Fort St. Angelo, which offers panoramic views over the harbour and a deep dive into Malta’s military legacy.

• Senglea (Isla): Continue to Senglea, the smallest of the trio, known for its strategic position and fortifications. Visit the Gardjola Gardens, a lookout point with sweeping vistas across the Grand Harbour and Valletta’s skyline. Senglea’s narrow streets and parish church, home to the revered statue of Il-Bambina, add to the city’s charm.

The Three Cities are close together, making it easy and enjoyable to explore them on foot. Walking along the waterfront promenades, you’ll encounter scenic views, bustling marinas, and a sense of Malta’s living history. 

Tonight, dinner is on your own– Malta has some amazing restaurants!

Meals Included – None
Overnight at Hotel - voco Malta by IHG

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable full-day excursion to Gozo, Malta’s serene sister island. A scenic 20-minute ferry ride brings you to this tranquil destination, known for its lush landscapes and slower pace of life.

Your guided tour includes visits to some of Gozo’s most iconic landmarks, including the sacred Ta’ Pinu Basilica, the historic Citadel of Victoria with its panoramic views, and the beautiful St. George’s Basilica. For those interested in delving deeper into the island’s rich heritage, optional visits can be arranged to the Cittadella Visitor Centre, Gozo Archaeological Museum, and the prehistoric Ġgantija Temples, among the world’s oldest free-standing structures.

You’ll also take in the natural beauty of Xlendi Bay and the dramatic coastal formations at Dwejra Bay. Midday, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ta’ Frenċ, one of Gozo’s most acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants, celebrated for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and extensive wine cellar.

After some free time to explore or relax, return to Malta by ferry. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight at Hotel - Voco Malta by IHG

After breakfast, meet your guide at 8:45 AM in the hotel lobby for a guided exploration of Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Valletta : A city Fit for explorer

Begin your day at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, perched at the highest point of Valletta’s city walls. This peaceful garden, once reserved for the Knights of St John, offers some of the island’s most breathtaking panoramic views over the Grand Harbour and the historic Three Cities. The terrace is renowned as a prime spot for photography and relaxation, with its Romanesque arches, Mediterranean greenery, and statues that highlight Valletta’s rich history. If you’re lucky, you might witness the traditional cannon firing ceremony from the Saluting Battery below, a nod to Malta’s military heritage.

Continue with a visit to the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. Inside, marvel at the opulent interiors and admire the famous paintings by Caravaggio displayed in the Oratory. The tour also takes you through Valletta’s bustling streets, showcasing grand palaces, churches, and cultural landmarks, before allowing some free time for shopping and personal exploration.

Wine Tasting : Cheers to Malta!

In the afternoon, we're heading to a 100-year-old winery in Paola for a wine tasting

session. This winery is the real deal, known for its premium wines both locally and

internationally.

We'll take a tour of the winery, learn about Malta's winemaking history, and then, of

course, taste some wine! The tasting includes light lunch platters, so you won't be

drinking on an empty stomach. The whole thing lasts about an hour and is a great way to

experience Malta's culinary culture..

Meals Included: Breakfast, Light Lunch

Overnight at Hotel - voco Malta by IHG

 Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before preparing for your departure.

One common private coach transfer from the hotel to Malta International Airport (MLA).

Meals Included: Breakfast