Highlights of Turkey (10 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 10-day journey through Turkey, where ancient history and vibrant culture intertwine. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, this multi-day tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Discover the Ottoman treasures of Istanbul, pay homage at Gallipoli, and explore the legendary city of Troy. Wander through the ancient ruins of Ephesus, relax in Pamukkale's thermal pools, and delve into the spiritual heart of Konya. Uncover the secrets of Cappadocia's unique landscapes before returning to Istanbul for a cultural exploration. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through Turkey's most iconic destinations.
Included
7 Dinner (D)
9 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Demircidere: Meet the most liberated women in Turkey in the village of Demircidere, where you’ll learn how to bake traditional bread and taste the local wine at our Be My Guest lunch.
: Learn about the art of pottery making in Avanos.
Istanbul: Haggle for souvenirs at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar one of the largest covered markets in the world with 60 streets and over 5,000 shops.
Istanbul: Visit the house of Turkey’s greatest classical composer, Dede Efendi. Recently brought back to its former architectural glory, this unique museum holds a rare collection of traditional instruments, which we experience first hand during a private concert by Music Conservancy students. This experience advances United Nations’ Global Sustainable Goal 4: Quality Education. Our visits provide opportunities for the students to perform. This experience also advances United Nations’ Global Sustainable Goal 11: Resilient Cities and Communities. Our visits contribute to Turkey’s cultural vibrancy in safeguarding traditional forms of music which was fast disappearing. Our visits also support the important work of TURKEV association, who researches and safeguards Turkish traditional architectures and houses. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 11: Quality Education and Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Explore Istanbul
View the Wooden Horse at Troy and the Blue Mosque
See the exquisite Blue Mosque
Cappadocia: The Exedra Hotel's rooms, carved from rock, boast unique designs and handcrafted antiques. During construction, a chapel was uncovered, inspiring the name 'Exedra,' a gathering place in ancient Rome.
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Ferry across the Dardanelles from Eceabat to Canakkale
Flight from Cappadocia to Istanbul
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Novotel Istanbul Zeytinburnu
Kolin
Kaya Izmir Thermal & Convention
Colossae Thermal
Dedeman
Exedra
Destinations
Konya
Selçuk
Izmir
Istanbul
GöremeMap
Attractions
Zelve Open Air Museum
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
Grand Bazaar
Hagia Sophia
Kaymaklı Underground City
Topkapı Palace
Mevlâna Museum
Gelibolu Yarimadasi
Çat KasabasıDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
- More
Begin your Turkish adventure in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where East meets West. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel (Hilton or similar) to settle in. As the evening unfolds, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers over a delightful dinner, setting the stage for the journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Ottoman Treasures of Istanbul
- Göreme
- Istanbul
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- Ural Ataman Classic Car Museum
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Irene
- Topkapı Palace
- Basilica Cistern
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Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire as you explore Istanbul's iconic landmarks. Wander through the majestic Topkapi Palace, marvel at the architectural wonder of Hagia Sophia, and stroll through the historic Byzantine Hippodrome. The Blue Mosque, with its stunning Iznik tiles, awaits your admiration. Conclude your day with a cultural experience at the Museum of Classical Turkish Music. The evening is yours to explore Istanbul's vibrant streets.
Day 3 – Day 3: Remembering Gallipoli
- Istanbul
- More
- Akbas cemetary
- Lone Pine
- Cimenlik Castle
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Pay homage to the brave souls who fought at Gallipoli, a site of profound historical significance. Visit Lone Pine Cemetery and reflect at Anzac Cove and Chunuk Bair, where fierce battles once raged. As the day draws to a close, journey to Çanakkale for an evening of relaxation and a sumptuous dinner at your hotel (Hilton or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Legends of Troy and Local Delights
- Izmir
- More
- Respect for History Park
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Step into the world of ancient legends at Troy, where the epic tales of Helen and the Trojan War come to life. Explore the archaeological wonders and the iconic replica Trojan Horse. Enjoy a unique Be My Guest experience with a local lunch in the charming village of Demircidere. Later, travel to the bustling city of Izmir, where you'll dine and unwind at your hotel (Hilton or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Ancient Wonders of Ephesus
- Izmir
- Selçuk
- Pamukkale
- More
- Basilica Of Saint John
- House of Virgin Mary
- Library of Celsus
- Milet Museum
- Guzelcamli Naturel Park
- More
Travel back in time as you explore the ancient city of Ephesus, home to the magnificent Library of Celsus and the revered Temple of Artemis. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary and the Temple of Hadrian, and marvel at the grandeur of the Great Theatre. Discover the art of Turkish carpet weaving before relaxing in the thermal pools of your Pamukkale hotel (Hilton or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Spiritual Journey to Konya
- Konya
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- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Mevlâna Museum
- More
Begin your day with a leisurely exploration of the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, where thermal springs once offered solace to weary travelers. Continue to Konya, a city steeped in spiritual history, and visit the Mevlana Museum, a former dervish lodge. As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at your Konya hotel (Hilton or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Discovering Cappadocia
- Konya
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- Kaymaklı Underground City
- Çat Kasabası
- More
Embark on a journey to Cappadocia, where you'll explore the ancient Silk Road's Saratli Underground City. Dive into the rich culture of Avanos, renowned for its pottery-making traditions. Consider an optional experience to witness the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes before enjoying a regional meal. Spend the night in a unique cave hotel (Hilton or similar) carved from the region's distinctive rock formations.
Day 8 – Day 8: Enchanting Landscapes of Cappadocia
- Istanbul
- Göreme
- Çavuşin
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- Zelve Open Air Museum
- Pigeon Valley
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Delve into the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia with a full-day excursion. Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, home to ancient rock-cut churches, and explore the stunning Paşabağı and Kizil Vadi valleys. As the day concludes, join your fellow travelers for a delightful dinner, reflecting on the day's wonders.
Day 9 – Day 9: Cultural Exploration in Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Sultanahmet Square
- SALT Galata
- Grand Bazaar
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Return to Istanbul and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. Wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest covered markets, and experience the sensory delights of the Spice Market. Stroll through the historic Sultanahmet district or relax at a rooftop café, taking in the city's iconic skyline. Conclude your day with a farewell dinner, celebrating the memories made on this unforgettable journey.
Day 10 – Day 10: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
- More
Bid farewell to Turkey and your newfound friends as you prepare for your departure. Reflect on the rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences that have made this journey truly special. Safe travels as you head to the airport for your flight home.
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