the orient express literary retreat in istanbul
the orient express literary retreat in istanbul
TBD
you’re invited to step into the world of mystery, literature, and old-world glamour on our agatha christie–inspired retreat in istanbul, a 4-day experience set in the city where east meets west, and stories come alive in every shadowed corner.
wander the same halls christie once did at the iconic pera palace hotel, explore the grandeur of hagia sophia, and take in the city’s beauty from the deck of a sunset ferry ride across the bosphorus.
with immersive murder mystery dinners, thoughtful book club conversations, and plenty of time to explore, reflect, and write, this retreat is perfect for fans of suspense, storytelling, and the quiet thrill of a well-plotted twist.
whether you're a lifelong christie reader or simply love the idea of getting lost in a setting full of atmosphere and intrigue, we’ll be saving you a seat at the table.
“What a special experience and such a gorgeous location! I got so much out of this retreat — more than I was expecting — and was very impressed with the level of detail. Highly recommend all of the retreats Aweventurer puts on!”
itinerary
day one
ARRIVE in the vibrant city where east meets eest and check into your elegant accommodation
MEET your fellow travellers at our welcome gathering and get a taste of the days ahead
CRUISE across the bosphorus on a sunset ferry ride, watching the city light up as day turns to dusk
DINE together at a local restaurant, soaking in the atmosphere that once inspired literary legends
day two
BREAKFAST
MORNING PAGES start the day with book club, writing, journaling or sketching
WALK in agatha christie’s footsteps with a visit to the legendary pera palace hotel, where it’s said she began writing Murder on the Orient Express
ENJOY a free afternoon to explore Istanbul’s bookshops, bazaars, or teahouses
OPTIONAL guided visit to Hagia Sophia, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks
DRESS UP for an immersive murder mystery dinner, an evening of suspense, storytelling, and play
day three
BREAKFAST
MORNING PAGES start the day with book club, writing, journaling or sketching
LEARN the art of turkish coffee reading (tasseography) in a hands-on workshop led by a local expert. After enjoying a traditional cup, you’ll turn your cup over and learn how to interpret the shapes and symbols left behind
ENJOY the afternoon at your own pace, visit a hidden bookshop, sip turkish tea, or stroll the grand bazaar
BOOK CLUB & FAREWELL DINNER, a night to reflect, celebrate, and connect
day 4
BREAKFAST
MORNING PAGES start the day with book club, writing, journaling or sketching
SAY your farewells and depart, or continue your story elsewhere, with Istanbul’s magic still lingering
exclusions
Flights to and from Istanbul
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional activities
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
inclusions
Pre-trip consultation with a bibliotherapist, get a tailored book prescription
A copy of the trips chosen book
Morning pages sessions
3 nights accommodation in Istanbul
Breakfast & Dinners
Guided literary walking tour including Pera Palace Hotel and sites linked to Agatha Christie
Murder mystery
Visit to the iconic Hagia Sophia
Hands-on Turkish coffee reading workshop
Transformative travel guidebook and journaling prompts from Aweventurer
Goodie Bag
location
We’ll be staying in a thoughtfully chosen property that offers comfort, character, and a central location. With easy access to the city’s historic heart, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore iconic landmarks, literary sites, winding streets, and hidden bookshops during your free time.
why a reading retreat?
why a reading retreat?
Come for the books. Stay for the people who love them like you do.
There’s something rare about finding your people. It’s those who speak in dog-eared quotes, who light up at the mention of a beloved author, who know the joy of a day spent in silence together, each lost in a different world.
A reading retreat is about more than finishing the books that have been quietly waiting on your shelf. It’s about rediscovering your creative spark, remembering what moves you, and letting literature do what it’s always done best and remind us we’re not alone.
These retreats are crafted for curious minds and open hearts. Whether you’re a writer, a deep-feeling reader, or simply someone longing to connect over something real, you’ll feel at home here.
What you’ll find:
Like-minded women who value meaningful conversation and time to reflect
A thoughtfully curated reading list by a professional bibliotherapist, designed to match the place and its stories
The luxury of uninterrupted time to read what you’ve been meaning to, with no guilt and no pressure
Workshops, journaling prompts and inspiring rituals to gently awaken your creativity
The joy of talking about books under the stars, over spritzes, in tucked-away cafés and sun-drenched courtyards
You’ll leave with your TBR pile lighter, your heart fuller, and a few new lifelong friends — the kind who understand why a book can change everything.
We’ve hosted journalists, novelists, first-time solo travellers, and women who just needed a beautiful pause. Everyone leaves a little more inspired. A little more themselves.
FAQs
How can I join?
Please secure your place by paying a deposit, the full trip price or opting onto a payment plan. Confirmation will take place via email. There is a maximum number of places available on this trip so act fast.
How do I get there?
You can reach Istanbul via most major international airports, with Istanbul Airport (IST) being the main and most convenient option. Alternatively, Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) also serves international flights and is located on the Asian side of the city. Please hold off from purchasing transport until the trip is confirmed (when it hits it’s minimum number of participants).
What is the rooming configuration?
The rooms are sharing, so you will have one or more besties for the entirety of the trip to share the experience with. There are twin & triple rooms.
How can I pay?
Either pay in full or pay the deposit now, and book onto a payment plan, using the book now button.
What should I pack?
Day pack for carrying essentials.
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
Layers and cosy warm clothes
Sun protection - a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen.
Electrical adaptor.
Water bottle.