Explore Turkey – Istanbul, Cappadocia, Hierapolis, Ephesus, Troy

ITINERARY

• DAY 1
  Picture of Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey which was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinianos

  Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey!

  Welcome to the Istanbul!
  
  Upon arrival, meet with your driver and transfer to your accommodating hotel. Additionally, spend the day at leisure to relax and rest after your overseas flight in this stunning city. You can unwind, take in the surroundings, and prepare for the exciting adventures that await you during your stay.

  What's included?

  • Accommodation
  • Transfer
• DAY 2
  Ortakoy Mosque on the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

  Istanbul - Full Day Exploring the City

  After breakfast, pick up from the hotel, and your Explore Turkey journey begins in Istanbul. It's the only city in the world situated on two continents. Moreover, we visit the Topkapi Palace, including Harem, Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, and Hippodrome, where chariot races and the Byzantine riots took place. Afterward, enjoy some free time at the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar), where the air is filled with the enticing aromas of cinnamon, caraway, saffron, mint, thyme, and more. This sensory experience adds to the richness of your Istanbul exploration.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Istanbul.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 3
  Canakkale - Piece at home, Piece in the World

  Canakkale - Visit World War I battlefields, Anzac Cove

  After breakfast, depart for Canakkale. Additionally, en route to Gallipoli, we will visit World War I battlefields, Anzac Cove, Chunuk Bair, and Lone Pine Cemetery. This historical journey offers an opportunity to pay homage to the fallen soldiers and reflect on the significant events of the past. Later, we will take the ferry across the Dardanelles Strait to Canakkale, where you will spend the night at your hotel. This experience will provide a deeper understanding of the region's history and its significance in shaping the world's events.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 4
  The Greeks used Trojan Horse during the Trojan War in Canakkale.

  Kusadasi - Explore the mythological site of Troy and ancient city of Pergamum

  Visit Troy's famous archaeological and mythological site, home of the "Trojan Horse" and "Helen of Troy." Furthermore, in the afternoon, depart to visit the city of Pergamon with its breathtaking Acropolis and Asclepion, the ancient health center. This day of exploration will take you back in time, immersing you in the captivating tales and historical wonders of these ancient cities.
  
  Departure for overnight at your hotel in Kusadasi.
  

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 5
  House of Virgin Mary Ephesus, Turkey

  Kusadasi - Visit the Artemission Temple and one of the 12 cities of Ionia, Ephesus

  After breakfast, we’ll first visit the Artemission Temple, one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World. Additionally, continue to Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionia. It's one of the best-preserved classical cities of the Eastern Mediterranean dating back to 2000 years, too.
  
  After exploring Ephesus, you can observe some traditional carpet weaving techniques. Enjoy viewing splendid displays of beautiful carpets at a local handicraft center.
  
  In the afternoon, visit the House of Virgin Mary, located in the Aladag Mountains, 5 miles from Ephesus. According to the third Ecumenical Council of 431 in Ephesus, Mary came to Ephesus with St. John in 37 A.D. and lived there until her death in 48 A.D. Finally, transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight. This day of discovery will immerse you in the rich history and culture of this remarkable region.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Kusadasi.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 6
  Pamukkale - Calcium coated cliffs and pools

  Pamukkale - Visit city of the arts, Aphrodisias and discover the Hierapolis

  After breakfast, we’ll drive to Pamukkale. Furthermore, on the way, we will visit Aphrodisias, primarily known as the center for the arts, specifically sculpture. The Aphrodisias School of Sculpture had a distinctive style and circulated well throughout the Greek and Roman world. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, we’ll discover Hierapolis and the travertine terraces. This location is one of the most spectacular natural wonders and a unique natural site with white limestone terraces cascading down the mountain slope. This day of exploration will take you through ancient history and stunning geological formations, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Pamukkale.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 7
  Dancing Dervishes in Istanbul, Turkey

  Konya - Explore the city of Sufi order, Mevlevi, Mevlana Rumi

  Today we will depart to Konya, the city where Mevlana Rumi is buried, the founder of the most well-known Sufi order, Mevleviye. Additionally, in Konya, we will visit the Mevlana Museum. Afterward, we will proceed to Karatay Theological School, where beautiful tiles are on display. Finally, transfer to your hotel. This day will provide a unique opportunity to delve into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Konya and appreciate the artistry of its historical treasures.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Konya.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 8
  Hot air balloons flying over Cappadocia, Turkey

  Cappadocia - Visit Sultanhan Caravanserai

  Drive to Cappadocia. Moreover, en route, we will visit Sultanhan Caravanserai; caravanserais are inns built by Seljuk Turks to ensure the travel and trade safety of the merchant caravans traveling on the Silk Road. After this fascinating stop, transfer to your hotel in Cappadocia. This journey through history will give you a glimpse into the trade routes of the past and the architectural wonders that supported them.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Cappadocia.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 9
  The natural rock citadel in Uchisar, Cappadocia Turkey

  Cappadocia - Underground City Tour and More!

  After breakfast, tour Kaymaklı Underground City is one of the most interesting underground settlements in Cappadocia.
  
  Continue to Soğanlı Valley, an Open Air Museum in a wild natural setting near a typical Cappadocian village with its different styles of Rock-Cut churches and frescoes. Furthermore, enjoy a lunch break and visit Sahinefendi's newly discovered (01 May 2002) mosaic houses & Archaeological excavation site.
  
  Afterward, continue with a visit to Keslik Monastery near Cemil, which hides its frescoes behind a thin smoke layer that we can only see by torchlight. Our tour concludes with a visit to Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), an old Greek town with spectacular old Greek houses and excellent examples of late Greek settlements and architecture. This part of the journey will reveal the hidden treasures of Cappadocia's history and cultural diversity, making it an unforgettable exploration of the region.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Cappadocia.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 10
  Goreme Museum, Cappadocia, Turkey

  Cappadocia - Admire the famous Goreme Open Air Museum

  Today, meet the famous lunar landscape of Cappadocia: rock formations beyond belief in Devrent valley. Additionally, embark on a journey into the past as you explore troglodyte houses and visit Pasabag, known for its "fairy chimneys," where the voice of the wind mixes with the "songs of fairies" near Zelve. This day of exploration will take you through the enchanting and surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, offering a truly magical experience.
  
  Lunch break in Avanos, the center of terra cotta work of art since 3000 BC, and a demonstration in a traditional pottery workshop.
  
  Afternoon, visit the famous Goreme Open Air Museum and see the best examples of Byzantine art in Cappadocia. These rock-cut churches boast frescoes and paintings dating from the 10th to the 13th century. Furthermore, continue your exploration by heading to Uchisar Rock Castle, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valleys of Cappadocia. This part of the day promises to reveal the rich artistic and historical heritage of the region, while also offering breathtaking vistas of the unique landscapes.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Cappadocia.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 11
  Anitkabir is the mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey.

  Ankara - Ataturk Mausoleum and Anatolian Civilizations Museum

  Drive to Ankara, and visit Ataturk Mausoleum and Anatolian Civilizations Museum.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Ankara.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 12
  World's oldest covered market, Grand Bazaar, located in Istanbul

  Istanbul - Grand Bazaar and Boat trip on a Bosphorus

  After breakfast, drive to Istanbul through Bolu. Moreover, the shore is lined with old wooden villas, palaces of marble, fortresses, and small fishing villages. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time at the Grand Bazaar for shopping.
  
  Afterward, join a boat trip on the Bosphorus, a traditional excursion by boat along the waterway separating Europe and Asia. This part of the journey will allow you to appreciate the unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty that Istanbul has to offer.
  
  Overnight at your hotel in Istanbul.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Transfer
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 13

  Gule Gule! (Good Bye)

  Today is the final day of our Explore Turkey journey. Morning is yours to relax and have breakfast until your departure. Later, check out at noon and private transfer to Istanbul Airport for your departure flight.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Transfer