Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Istanbul / Izmir / Kusadasi
Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, connecting flight to Izmir. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Kusadasi. Meet your guide for a short briefing before dinner and overnight at your hotel. Includes: (D).
Day 2: Kusadasi / Ephesus / Kusadasi
After breakfast we drive to the ancient city of Ephesus and first visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Ephesus was undoubtedly one of the most important cultural centers of the ancient world. Impressive structures we will see include the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, Theatre and Odeon. We also visit the House of the Virgin Mary We stay overnight in Kusadasi. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Day 3: Kusadasi / Izmir /Ankara / Cappadocia
After breakfast, transfer to Izmir Airport for your short flight to Ankara. Today we discover Ankara that was once a Hittite town, then a Roman city, and now the capital of Turkey. Then visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which is housed in a restored Caravanserai, seeing its Hittite treasures and artifacts. Then drive to Cappadocia via Salt Lake, which is the second largest lake of Turkey. Dinner and overnight in Cappadocia. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Day 4: Cappadocia
A full day to tour the riches of this incredible "moonscape" of Cappadocia including the Goreme open-air Museum, with its dozens of painted cave-churches. The surrealistic geological formation of Cappadocia is one of the wonders of the world. It is the result of the natural forces during the intense volcanic activity. Then we will continue to the pottery making village of Avanos where you watch clay turning into a form of artwork. Later on visit a world famous Turkish hand-made carpet factory. Dinner and overnight. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Day 5: Cappadocia / Istanbul
Today we visit the Kaymakli Underground City, a place early Christians hid from persecutors. Another highlight of today will be the Soganli Village, a remote community famous for dolls and housing some more rock churches. We will have our lunch at the village and spend some time with the villagers. You may ride a donkey on the narrow streets of the village or may experience a traditional wedding ceremony if there is one on that day. Evening flight to Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul. Includes: (B), (L).
Day 6: Istanbul
After breakfast you will depart for a full-day tour of Istanbul. Our first stop will be the Hippodrome, where chariot races were held and competitive athletic events took place during the Roman period. Then world famous St.Sophia - the great Byzantine Basilica built in the 6th century - following the Blue Mosque famous for its six minarets and magnificent interior blue tiles. Then you will enjoy a traditional excursion by boat along the waterway separating Europe from Asia. The shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages. During the excursion you will pass the magnificent Dolmabahce Palace, and further along, the parks and imperial pavillions of Yildiz Palace. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Day 7: Istanbul
Today you will visit the Topkapi Palace, the residence of Ottoman sultans housing richness of 700 years. Later on you will be browsing the Grand Bazaar. Free afternoon to explore the city on your own and overnight stay in Istanbul. Tonight there will be a farewell dinner. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Day 8: Istanbul.
Enjoy the beautiful city of Istanbul on your own. Free day at leisure. Includes: (B).
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
- Prices are per person in double occupancy.
- Land-only prices do not include any domestic flights and transfer.
- $50 Senior citizen discount for travelers over 65
Price Includes:
- 3 domestic flights within Turkey: Airport / Hotel / Airport transfers
- Superior first-class hotel accommodations
- Most meals (total of 20 including 8 buffet breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners)
- All entrance fees to the sites included in the itinerary
- Services of our experienced tour guide
- Land transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
- Travel Protection Plan (over $200 value)
Travel documents kit (luggage tags, travel bag, neck-rest pillow, luggage strap, etc.)
Hotel upgrade is available
Also see tour packages in:
Middle East
Turkey
Cultural Journey
Archeology/History
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