Description

Combining the vibrant energy of Istanbul, the elegance of centuries-old history, and the restorative power of Afyon’s mineral-rich thermal waters, this exclusive journey has been carefully designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. Your experience begins on the enchanting shores of the Bosphorus, where centuries-old Ottoman bathing traditions meet world-class spa experiences, before continuing to Afyon, one of Türkiye’s most renowned thermal wellness destinations, where ancient heritage and modern thermal therapies come together in a deeply restorative retreat.

Throughout the program, guests will enjoy three nights at the prestigious Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul and two nights at the luxurious NG Afyon. Both properties are celebrated for their exceptional hospitality, sophisticated wellness facilities, and premium spa experiences, providing the perfect setting for a journey focused on relaxation, renewal, and well-being.

Located on the European shores of the Bosphorus in the historic district of Beşiktaş, Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul occupies a beautifully restored historic building that originally served as a tobacco warehouse during the 1930s. Carefully transformed into one of Istanbul’s most distinguished luxury hotels, the property seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with architectural details inspired by the rich heritage of the Ottoman Empire. Its award-winning CHI, The Spa offers a unique wellness experience, combining traditional Asian healing philosophies with Turkish hospitality in an atmosphere of absolute tranquility overlooking the Bosphorus.

The second part of the journey takes guests to NG Afyon, an exceptional luxury thermal retreat located in Afyon, a destination renowned for its mineral-rich geothermal waters and centuries-old thermal bathing tradition. The hotel provides an extensive range of thermal and wellness facilities, allowing guests to experience the restorative qualities of Afyon’s natural thermal waters in an elegant and contemporary setting. Alongside thermal pools and spa facilities, guests can enjoy a selection of professional wellness treatments designed to encourage deep relaxation, release physical tension, and restore a sense of balance and vitality.

A signature element of the Afyon experience is the opportunity to discover the region’s traditional thermal wellness culture through a carefully curated thermal mud treatment. Combined with thermal bathing, spa rituals, moments of relaxation, and healthy gastronomy, this experience creates a distinctive wellness journey inspired by the natural resources and ancient thermal heritage of Afyon.

Beyond the thermal experience, guests will also have the opportunity to discover Afyon’s rich cultural heritage, including its archaeological treasures, historic city centre, traditional architecture, and local culinary traditions. This balance between cultural discovery and restorative wellness allows guests to experience Afyon not simply as a thermal destination, but as a region where history, nature, gastronomy, and well-being have been intertwined for centuries.

More than simply a holiday, this exclusive program brings together luxurious accommodation, premium spa experiences, traditional Turkish hammam rituals, mineral-rich thermal waters, thermal mud wellness, healthy gastronomy, cultural discovery, and peaceful moments dedicated to relaxation and renewal. The result is a holistic wellness journey designed to restore the body, refresh the mind, and inspire a deeper sense of well-being, combining the timeless elegance of Istanbul with the restorative thermal heritage of Afyon.

Day 1 | Welcome to Istanbul

Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our team and transferred by your privately designed VIP vehicle to the prestigious Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul, beautifully located on the shores of the Bosphorus.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you will be greeted with a specially prepared signature detox welcome drink, carefully crafted to refresh and revitalize you after your journey. After completing your check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax and unwind while enjoying the elegant atmosphere and world-class wellness facilities of the hotel. Surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the Bosphorus, this tranquil beginning sets the perfect tone for your exclusive wellness journey.

In the evening, your private chauffeur will escort you to Mikla Restaurant, one of Istanbul's most celebrated fine dining destinations. Renowned as one of the world's outstanding restaurants, Mikla offers an innovative interpretation of contemporary Anatolian cuisine, complemented by breathtaking panoramic views over the Istanbul skyline. As part of your wellness experience, you will be treated to a carefully curated exclusive vegan tasting menu, thoughtfully prepared by the restaurant's talented chefs to reflect the philosophy of healthy and mindful gastronomy.

Following this exceptional culinary experience, you will return to your hotel by private vehicle and spend your first evening relaxing in the serene atmosphere of the Bosphorus, marking the perfect beginning of your Luxury Wellness Journey.

Day 2 | Ottoman Heritage, The Legendary Turkish Hammam Ritual & Istanbul's Timeless Treasures

After enjoying a rich open-buffet breakfast at Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul, you will meet your professional English-speaking guide and begin an unforgettable day that perfectly combines wellness, history, and culture in the heart of Istanbul.

Your first experience of the day is the legendary Hürrem Sultan Hammam, one of the finest surviving examples of Ottoman bath culture. Commissioned by Hürrem Sultan, the beloved wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, and designed by the renowned imperial architect Mimar Sinan in 1556, this architectural masterpiece has stood proudly for nearly five centuries. Perfectly situated between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the hammam once served the elite of the Ottoman Empire and today continues to welcome guests from around the world, offering an authentic Turkish bathing ritual in an atmosphere where history, luxury, and wellness come together.

During this exclusive wellness experience, guests will enjoy a carefully curated Signature Ottoman Hammam Ritual in a private and luxurious setting. The journey begins with access to the historic hammam facilities, followed by a traditional full-body kese exfoliation performed on the warm marble platform, gently removing dead skin cells while stimulating circulation. The ritual continues with an organic lavender extract and sea salt hand and foot exfoliation, followed by a nourishing Redbud-scented full-body clay mask designed to hydrate, firm, and revitalize the skin.

Guests will then experience the iconic bubble wash ritual, featuring a luxurious full-body foam massage accompanied by a relaxing head and neck massage. A refreshing hair cleansing ceremony using Redbud-scented shampoo follows before moving to a private treatment room for a deeply relaxing aromatherapy massage with Redbud essential oil. The wellness journey is completed with a moisturizing facial mask, a soothing facial massage using organic facial oil, and a revitalizing foot massage. Fresh seasonal and dried fruits are served throughout the experience, while a private changing room ensures maximum comfort and privacy.

More than simply a spa treatment, the Turkish Hammam is a centuries-old wellness ritual that cleanses the body, calms the mind, restores inner balance, and reflects the timeless healing traditions of the Ottoman Empire.

Following your hammam experience, your guide will accompany you to Sultanahmet Square and the historic Hippodrome, once the social and sporting center of the Byzantine Empire. Here you will admire remarkable monuments including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk, each reflecting thousands of years of fascinating history.

Your cultural journey continues with a visit to the magnificent Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque). Built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmed I, this iconic masterpiece is admired for its six elegant minarets and the magnificent blue İznik tiles that decorate its interior, making it one of Istanbul's most recognizable landmarks.

Lunch will be served at the distinguished Galeyan Restaurant, where traditional Turkish cuisine is reimagined with contemporary culinary techniques. Carefully prepared using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, the menu offers an authentic yet refined gastronomic experience that perfectly complements the wellness philosophy of the journey.

In the afternoon, you will visit the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, one of the world's greatest architectural masterpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage monument. Originally built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I as the largest cathedral of the Byzantine Empire, Hagia Sophia has served as a church, an imperial mosque, a museum, and today once again welcomes visitors as a mosque. With nearly 1,500 years of history, it stands as a remarkable symbol of the civilizations and cultures that have shaped Istanbul throughout the centuries.

The final stop of the day is the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Dating back to the 15th century, this vibrant marketplace is home to thousands of traditional shops offering exquisite handmade carpets, ceramics, jewelry, spices, leather goods, and authentic Turkish handicrafts. During your free time, you will have the opportunity to explore its colorful atmosphere, browse its countless treasures, or simply enjoy the unique ambiance of one of the world's most iconic bazaars.

In the evening, you will return to Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul, where you may relax and enjoy the hotel's exceptional wellness facilities before concluding the day with a carefully prepared dinner. Surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the Bosphorus, you will unwind and reflect on a day filled with unforgettable cultural discoveries and authentic wellness experiences, creating memories that will remain with you long after your journey has ended.

Day 3 | A Day of Holistic Rejuvenation & Serenity by the Bosphorus

The third day of your wellness journey is dedicated entirely to relaxation, self-care, and holistic rejuvenation. Following a lavish open-buffet breakfast at Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul, your day begins with a series of carefully curated wellness experiences designed to restore harmony between body and mind.

Your first treatment is a 45-minute Moisturizing Floral Salt Scrub, an indulgent spa ritual that gently exfoliates the skin using natural mineral salts enriched with delicate floral extracts. This revitalizing treatment removes dead skin cells, stimulates circulation, deeply nourishes the skin, and restores its natural radiance, leaving it exceptionally soft and refreshed. The soothing floral aromas further enhance the experience, creating a profound sense of relaxation and inner calm.

Following your treatment, you will have ample free time to unwind and embrace the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel. Whether you choose to relax while admiring the breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, enjoy the hotel's luxurious wellness facilities, or simply take time for yourself, this peaceful interlude offers the perfect opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with your inner well-being.

Lunch will be served at the hotel, where a carefully prepared menu inspired by the principles of healthy and balanced gastronomy will complement your wellness journey.

In the afternoon, your rejuvenation continues with a luxurious Hand & Foot Care Treatment. As two of the most frequently used parts of the body, the hands and feet deserve dedicated attention. This restorative treatment deeply moisturizes, revitalizes, and relaxes tired muscles while enhancing overall comfort and well-being, leaving you feeling refreshed, light, and fully renewed.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You may continue to indulge in the hotel's exceptional spa facilities, relax in the peaceful surroundings, or simply take in the beauty of the Bosphorus from one of Istanbul's most prestigious waterfront locations.

In the evening, your private chauffeur will accompany you to the elegant Feriye Restaurant in Ortaköy, one of Istanbul's most distinguished waterfront dining destinations. Located within the historic Feriye Palaces, which once served as part of the Ottoman Imperial complex, the restaurant offers an extraordinary combination of history, sophisticated architecture, and spectacular views overlooking the Bosphorus. Here, guests will enjoy an exquisite dinner featuring refined interpretations of contemporary Turkish cuisine while watching the shimmering lights of the city reflect across the water.

Following this memorable dining experience, you will return to Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul by private vehicle, where you can relax and reflect on three unforgettable days of luxury, wellness, and cultural discovery before continuing the next chapter of your journey.

Day 4 | Journey to Afyon & The Beginning of Thermal Renewal

Following our comfortable stay in Istanbul, we continue the second chapter of our wellness journey and travel towards Afyon. After our flight from Istanbul Airport, we arrive at Kütahya Zafer Airport, where our professional chauffeur will welcome us and accompany us on a comfortable journey to Afyon.

Upon arrival in Afyon, we check in to NG Afyon Wellness & Thermal Hotel, which will be the heart of our thermal wellness experience. After enjoying lunch at the hotel, we move to the hotel’s extensive thermal pool area to leave the fatigue of the journey behind and connect with Afyon’s world-renowned thermal heritage.

Afyonkarahisar has been celebrated for centuries for its mineral-rich thermal springs and is widely regarded as one of Türkiye’s leading thermal wellness destinations. Its thermal waters have historically been used for relaxation and therapeutic purposes, and today they form an important part of the region’s thermal tourism, spa, and wellness culture.

NG Afyon features a total of 16 different pools, offering guests an extensive thermal and wellness experience. The pool complex extends across indoor and outdoor areas and includes thermal pools designed for different experiences, as well as an outdoor thermal pool available throughout the year. The outdoor thermal pool is maintained at approximately 38–40°C, while the variety of thermal facilities allows guests to personalize their experience according to their preferences and relaxation needs.

Surrounded by the warmth and soothing atmosphere of mineral-rich thermal waters, take time to release the fatigue of your journey and allow both body and mind to relax. The remainder of the day is dedicated to leisure and personal time, allowing you to slow down and enjoy a peaceful introduction to Afyon’s centuries-old thermal culture.

After dinner at the hotel, spend the evening at leisure and enjoy a restful night, feeling refreshed and ready for the following day’s Afyon Heritage & Thermal Renewal experiences.

Day 5 | Afyon Heritage & Thermal Renewal Experience

We begin the day with a rich open-buffet breakfast at the hotel. Following breakfast, we depart with our professional English-speaking guide and private chauffeur to discover Afyon’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Our first stop is the Afyon Archaeological Museum, where we explore the region’s remarkable history through an impressive collection of archaeological artefacts spanning thousands of years. Discovering pieces from the Phrygian, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, we gain a deeper appreciation of Afyon’s significant place within Anatolia’s cultural heritage.

We then continue to Afyon city centre, where we explore the historic character of the city. Our visit includes the Afyon Great Mosque, one of the most remarkable wooden-columned mosques of the Seljuk period. Built in the 13th century, its traditional architecture and distinctive wooden columns offer an impressive example of Seljuk craftsmanship and architectural heritage.

During our city exploration, we stroll through Afyonkarahisar’s historic houses and traditional streets, discovering the region’s local architecture and experiencing the character of a city where centuries of history remain woven into everyday life. Following this cultural discovery, we enjoy a carefully selected lunch featuring local flavours and culinary traditions.

After lunch, we return to the hotel and dedicate the second part of the day entirely to wellness and renewal.

Signature Thermal Mud Treatment

Inspired by Afyon’s centuries-old thermal wellness heritage, enjoy a specially designed Signature Thermal Mud Treatment, allowing the body and mind to unwind following the morning’s cultural exploration. Connected to the region’s mineral-rich thermal resources, this distinctive wellness experience provides a soothing moment of relaxation and renewal.

Following the mud treatment, enjoy the thermal swimming pools at NG Afyon, allowing the warmth and tranquil atmosphere of the thermal waters to ease away any remaining fatigue. The remainder of the afternoon is dedicated to relaxation, giving both body and mind the opportunity to slow down and fully unwind.

After dinner at the hotel, enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the restorative atmosphere of Afyon’s thermal wellness retreat, continuing the rejuvenating rhythm of your journey.

Day 6 – Farewell to Afyon & The End of Our Wellness Journey

Begin your final morning in Afyon with a leisurely open-buffet breakfast at the hotel. Take some time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of NG Afyon Wellness & Thermal Hotel and savour the final moments of your thermal wellness retreat.

Following breakfast, complete your check-out and meet your professional chauffeur in the lobby before departing for Kütahya Zafer Airport. As you travel towards the airport, take in the final views of Afyon and its surrounding landscapes.

Upon arrival at Kütahya Zafer Airport, complete your check-in procedures for your flight to Istanbul and prepare to bid farewell to Afyon.

With our flight back to Istanbul, our Istanbul & Afyon Luxury Thermal Wellness Journey comes to an end.

Take with you the memories of a journey that brought together Istanbul’s timeless elegance, Afyon’s centuries-old thermal heritage, mineral-rich thermal waters, cultural discovery, spa rituals, and moments of deep relaxation and renewal.

See you soon…