the orient express literary retreat in istanbul

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the orient express literary retreat in istanbul

$0.00

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.

PURCHASE
 

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

  • 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

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?

In a world that’s always moving at a breakneck pace, a literary retreat offers something rare: the opportunity to slow down, explore, and connect, not just with books, but with the stories of places that have shaped the lives of great authors. These shorter, focused trips are designed for those who crave a meaningful literary experience, steeped in history, culture, and the pages that transport us to another time.



 

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.

Will there be downtime?

Whilst our days are designed with plenty of activities to give you the best experience, there will be time for downtime in the evenings or days when you are free to explore on your own.

Will I need a visa?

Obtaining a visa is the individual responsibility of the traveller. Please note that entry requirements can change at any time. Be sure to check with your government’s foreign travel advisories and consular websites to ensure you have the correct information.

What does the Aweventurer team do?

We provide the most thorough support for you to have an epic travel experience with us. From an on-the-ground local host to our team at HQ, there is always someone available to help solve any issues you may encounter. Throughout your expedition, a local host will accompany you and your fellow travellers to make sure you have everything you need for an inspiring and safe journey. You are also able to reach out with any concerns or questions – before, during and even after your trip. We pride ourselves on prompt responses and are happy to hear from you, whether by email, phone or via a Zoom call, on how we could improve your stay or anything we need to prepare before your arrival.