Turkey Encounters - 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 19-day journey through Turkey, a land where history and culture intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. This meticulously crafted multi-day tour takes you from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Troy, the serene travertines of Pamukkale, and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia. Explore the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli, the spiritual heart of Konya, and the enchanting city of Van. Discover the architectural marvels of Aspendos and the cultural treasures of Ani. With luxurious accommodations, expert guides, and immersive experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through Turkey's rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Join us for a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for this captivating country.
Included
Entrance fees to sites visited
Tipping kitty
Services of a local tour guide throughout
All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
All transport and transfers
24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Map
Attractions
Zelve Open Air Museum
Ölüdeniz Beach
Gedelme Castle
Aspendos Theater
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Sille Baraj Parkı
Stone Works Museum of Fine Minaret
Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
Sultanhanı Caravanserai
Hagia Irene
Grand Bazaar
Kaymaklı Underground City
Topkapı Palace
Pigeon Valley
Milet Museum
İstanbul Boğazı
Bergama Museum
Aqualand Antalya Dolphinland
Mevlâna Museum
Galata Tower
Antalya Archeology Museum
Pamukkale Theatre
Asclepieion of Pergamon
Çat Kasabası
Saklikent, Antalya
Saklıkent Canyon
Love Valley
Salda Kayak Merkezi
Aphrodisias MuseumDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
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Upon your arrival in the vibrant city of Istanbul, our dedicated staff will greet you at the airport and escort you to your luxurious 5-star hotel (or similar) in the heart of the city. Spend the rest of the day settling in and exploring the bustling streets of Istanbul at your leisure. In the evening, join us for a welcome meeting at 7 PM in the hotel lobby, where you'll have the opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travelers. If your flight arrives late, don't worry, as this meeting is optional. Enjoy a restful night in Istanbul, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Istanbul's Rich Heritage
- Istanbul
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- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Irene
- Topkapı Palace
- İstanbul Boğazı
- Galata Tower
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Start your day with a captivating tour of Istanbul's historic old city, a place where two continents meet. Delve into the city's rich past as you visit the stunning 17th-century Blue Mosque, the iconic Aya Sofya museum, and the opulent Topkapi Palace, once home to Ottoman Sultans. Conclude your morning at the historic Hippodrome. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus River, offering a unique perspective of the city that bridges Europe and Asia. Enjoy a restful night at your 5-star hotel (or similar) in Istanbul.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Gallipoli
- Gallipoli
- Istanbul
- Çanakkale
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Depart Istanbul for a poignant journey to Gallipoli, a site of immense historical significance from World War I. Explore the battlefield, now a serene landscape dotted with memorials like Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair. Visit ANZAC Cove, Johnston Jolly, The Nek, and the Gallipoli Museum, where the echoes of history resonate. Witness the original trenches and tunnels before heading to your 5-star hotel (or similar) in Canakkale for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 4 – Day 4: Ancient Wonders of Troy and Pergamum
- Çanakkale
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- Bergama Museum
- Asclepieion of Pergamon
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Embark on a journey to the legendary city of Troy, where the tales of the Trojan War come alive. Discover the archaeological marvels that lay hidden until the 19th century. Continue your adventure to Pergamum, an ancient city renowned for its cultural and political significance. Explore the Temple of Trajan and the famed Pergamum Library. As the day concludes, travel to Kusadasi, where you'll unwind in a 5-star hotel (or similar) for the night.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Ephesus and Sirince
Day 5: Exploring Ephesus and Sirince
- El Heykeli
- Milet Museum
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Venture to the ancient Roman city of Ephesus, a remarkably preserved site that once housed a quarter of a million people. Walk through its marble streets and visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the afternoon, journey to the charming village of Sirince, known for its fruit wines. Learn about traditional carpet weaving and indulge in a wine-tasting experience. Return to your 5-star hotel (or similar) in Kusadasi for a restful evening.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discovering Aphrodisias and Pamukkale
- Pamukkale
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- Aphrodisias Museum
- The ancient city of Tripolis
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Begin your day with a visit to Aphrodisias, an ancient city dedicated to the goddess of beauty, Aphrodite. Explore the well-preserved stadium, the Temple of Aphrodite, and the Tetrapylon. Delve into the rich history at the Aphrodisias Museum. Continue your journey to Pamukkale, where you'll spend the night in a 5-star hotel (or similar), ready to explore the natural wonders of the region the following day.
Day 7 – Day 7: Pamukkale's Natural Beauty
- Pamukkale
- Fethiye
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- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Pamukkale Theatre
- Salda Kayak Merkezi
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Explore the mesmerizing white terraces of Pamukkale, known as the 'Cotton Castles.' These natural formations are a sight to behold. Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and take a dip in the thermal pools, once used by the Romans for their healing properties. Later, journey to Salda Lake, often referred to as the 'Turkish Maldives,' before heading to Fethiye for an overnight stay in a boutique hotel (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Relaxation in Fethiye
- Fethiye
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- Ölüdeniz Beach
- Saklıkent Canyon
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Enjoy a leisurely day cruising around the 12 Islands of the Gulf of Fethiye. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and take in the stunning views of secluded bays and beaches. Lunch is served on board as you soak up the sun. Alternatively, explore the breathtaking Saklikent Gorge or relax at the famous Oludeniz Beach. Spend another night in your boutique hotel (or similar) in Fethiye.
Day 9 – Day 9: From Fethiye to Antalya
- Fethiye
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- Kemiad
- Gedelme Castle
- Hadrian's Gate
- Antalya Archeology Museum
- Kıdrak Koyu
- Saklikent, Antalya
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Depart Fethiye and visit the abandoned Greek village of Kayakoy, capturing its haunting beauty in the morning light. Continue to Antalya, where you'll explore the charming old town of Kaleici. Discover Hadrian's Gate, the Ancient Harbour, and the Suna-Inan Kirac Museum. Visit the Greek Orthodox Church nestled within its gardens. Spend the night in a 4-star hotel (or similar) in Antalya.
Day 10 – Day 10: Ancient Marvels of Perge and Aspendos
Day 10: Ancient Marvels of Perge and Aspendos
- Aspendos Theater
- Aqualand Antalya Dolphinland
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Begin your day with a visit to the ancient city of Perge, a site of great historical importance. Continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Return to Antalya in the afternoon, where you have free time to explore or relax. Enjoy another night in your 4-star hotel (or similar) in Antalya.
Day 11 – Day 11: Spiritual Journey to Konya
Day 11: Spiritual Journey to Konya
- Sille Baraj Parkı
- Stone Works Museum of Fine Minaret
- Mevlâna Museum
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Leave the coast behind and travel inland to Konya, a city steeped in spiritual significance. Visit the Mausoleum of Mevlana and the Mevlana Museum to learn about the whirling dervishes. Stop at the picturesque village of Sille before settling into your 4-star hotel (or similar) in Konya for the night.
Day 12 – Day 12: Enchanting Cappadocia
- Çavuşin
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- Sultanhanı Caravanserai
- Kaymaklı Underground City
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Travel to the captivating region of Cappadocia, known for its surreal landscapes and underground cities. Visit the Sultanhani Caravansary along the way. Explore the fascinating underground cities, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Turkish dinner in a local home, where you can participate in preparing the meal. Spend the night in a boutique cave hotel (or similar) in Cappadocia.
Day 13 – Day 13: Exploring Cappadocia's Wonders
- Çavuşin
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- Zelve Open Air Museum
- Twin Fairy Chimneys
- Pigeon Valley
- Çat Kasabası
- Love Valley
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Immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia. Visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and marvel at the fairy chimneys. Explore Pigeon Valley, Red Valley, and the charming village of Cavusin. In Avanos, discover the art of handmade pottery. Return to your boutique cave hotel (or similar) for another enchanting night in Cappadocia.
Day 14 – Day 14: From Cappadocia to Van
- Çavuşin
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Depart Cappadocia and fly to the eastern city of Van. Upon arrival, your local guide will accompany you to the Citadel of Van, a massive stone fortress with a rich history dating back to the Kingdom of Urartu. After exploring the citadel, you'll have free time to relax at your boutique hotel (or similar) in Van.
Day 15 – Day 15: Exploring Van and Akdamar Island
Day 15: Exploring Van and Akdamar Island
Take a ferry across Lake Van to Akdamar Island, where you'll visit the stunning 10th-century Church of the Holy Cross. Enjoy the serene surroundings and, if time permits, take a refreshing swim in Lake Van. Return to the city to explore the Urartu Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through history. Meet the famous Van cats before retiring to your boutique hotel (or similar) for the night.
Day 16 – Day 16: From Van to Istanbul via Dogubayazit
- Istanbul
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Travel to Dogubayazit, stopping at the picturesque Muradiye and Bendimaahi Falls along the way. Visit the magnificent Ishak Pasha Palace, a masterpiece of architectural fusion. Journey around the majestic Mount Ararat, believed to be the resting place of Noah's Ark. Conclude your day with a flight from Igdir to Istanbul, where you'll spend your final night in a 5-star hotel (or similar).
Day 17 – Day 17: Discovering the Ancient City of Ani
- Istanbul
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Embark on a journey to Ani, the ancient capital of the Armenian kingdom. Explore the ruins of this once-grand city, including the Ani Cathedral and the Church of St Gregory, adorned with remarkable frescoes. Continue your exploration with visits to the 12 Apostles Church and the imposing Kars Castle. Spend the night in a hotel (or similar) in Kars.
Day 18 – Day 18: Return to Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Grand Bazaar
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Fly from Kars to Istanbul for your final night in Turkey. Take this opportunity to revisit the bustling Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a comfortable stay in a 5-star hotel (or similar) in Istanbul.
Day 19 – Day 19: Departure from Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey through Turkey comes to an end, enjoy some free time in Istanbul for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Our team will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you've gathered during this remarkable tour.
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