A Journey Through Turkey: From Istanbul to Cappadocia and Beyond

After breakfast, we begin our full-day exploration of Istanbul. First, visit the iconic HagiaSophia, originally built by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century and later converted into a mosque by the Ottomans in the 15th century. Next, we will visit the Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th century, with its remarkable treasury,exquisite harem, and impressive courtyards filled with priceless antiques. Afterward, head to theBlue Mosque, one of the world’s most important religious sites, famous for its six minarets and stunning interior adorned with blue Iznik tiles.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, we will visit the Hippodrome, the site of ancient chariot races, before heading to the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s largest and oldest covered markets.Return to your hotel for the evening.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

This morning, we’ll begin with a visit to the Egyptian Bazaar, also known as the Spice Bazaar,which dates back to the 17th century. Afterward, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, where you’ll experience breathtaking views of Istanbul’s palaces, fortresses, and landmarks, including the Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, and Rumeli Fortress.Next, we’ll visit the historic neighborhoods of Fener and Balat, known for their cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and charming cafés. These areas are also famous filming locations for many Turkish TV shows.
We will then visit the magnificent Bulgarian Orthodox Church of St. Stephen, made entirely of cast iron, before stopping by the Church of the Orthodox Patriarchate in Balat.Finish the day at Pierre Loti Café, a renowned spot offering panoramic views of the Golden
Horn.Return to your hotel for the evening.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Early in the morning, depart by bus for Ankara, the capital of Turkey. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Bolu Mountains before arriving in Ankara. After checking into your hotel, enjoy dinner and a restful evening.
Overnight in Ankara.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

After breakfast, visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, which showcases a rich collection of artifacts, including many Hittite relics. Then, visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey.Continue your journey to Cappadocia, a region famous for its unique geological formations. On
the way, stop to admire the vast Salt Lake. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Following breakfast, enjoy a full-day tour of the region’s natural and historical wonders. Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, where you’ll find rock-hewn churches with beautiful frescoes.Explore the troglodyte village of Uçhisar and the nearby Pigeon Valley. Continue to the Love Valley, famous for its fairy chimneys, before visiting the pottery town of Avanos.In the afternoon, tour the underground city of Serhatlı (or Özkonak), a multi-level complex used
by early Christians as a refuge. Conclude the day with a visit to a local carpet workshop to seeTurkish carpet weaving, followed by a demonstration of onyx and jewelry craftsmanship.Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

After breakfast, begin your journey to Pamukkale, passing through Aksaray and visiting the Sultanhan Caravanserai along the Silk Road. Upon arrival in Pamukkale, check into your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight in Pamukkale.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Start the day with a visit to Pamukkale, famous for its white, terraced travertine pools created by thermal springs. Continue to the ancient city of Hierapolis, an important Phrygian city that became a center of Christianity during the Byzantine period. Proceed to Kusadasi, making a stop at the House of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the place where she spent her final years. En route, enjoy a fashion show featuring beautiful Turkish
leather products.In Kusadasi, visit the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. See landmarks such as the Temple of Hadrian, the Roman Baths, the Library of Celsus,the Odeon, and the Great Theatre.Check into your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Overnight in Kusadasi (or Izmir).
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

After breakfast, travel to Pergamon and visit the Asclepion, an ancient medical center where the famous physician Galen once practiced. Continue to Troy, the legendary city made famous by Homer’s Iliad.Arrive in Çanakkale and transfer to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight in Çanakkale.
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

After breakfast, depart for Istanbul with a stop in Bursa, the first capital of the Ottoman Empire.In Bursa, visit the 14th-century Great Mosque, the Green Mosque, the Green Mausoleum, and the local silk bazaar.Continue to Istanbul, where you will check into your hotel.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out from your hotel. You will have some free time to explore Istanbul at your leisure before being transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast