Wonders of Turkey (Classic, Summer, Base, 11 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 11-day journey through Turkey, a land where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. This multi-day tour invites you to explore the vibrant city of Istanbul, the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli, the legendary ruins of Troy, and the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia. From the bustling bazaars to serene ancient sites, each day offers a new adventure. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, including stays at renowned hotels like the Hilton (or similar), and savor delicious local cuisine. With expert guidance from your Travel Director, you'll delve into Turkey's rich heritage, meet local artisans, and experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality. Whether you're wandering through ancient ruins, relaxing in thermal spas, or cruising along the Bosphorus, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Turkey's treasures.
Included
7 Dinner (D)
10 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
1 Dinner with Wine (DW)
Istanbul: Begin your travels savouring traditional flavours over dinner at a local restaurant.
Izmir: Head to a local organic farm where you will be treated to a Farm-to-Table lunch. Enjoy the breathtaking views during your meal made from seasonal crops grown on site.
Cappadocia: Watch a spectacular Sema performance of Whirling Dervishes and discover the flavours of Cappadocia as you indulge in a regional dinner of colourful dishes.
Istanbul: Toast the culmination of your travels during dinner at a local restaurant.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
Canakkale: The modern Kolin Hotel is located near the city centre and is right on the shores of the Dardanelles Straits. Facilities include a fitness center, Turkish bath, sauna, jacuzzis and pools.
Izmir: The Swissotel Buyuk Efes, Izmir is centrally located, offering spacious, comfortable rooms and luxury facilities.
Kusadasi: Enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea from the Charisma De Luxe Hotel. Facilities include a Turkish bath, sauna, indoor pool, fitness suite and massage center.
Cappadocia: At the Alfina Hotel Cappadocia, experience troglodyte life in a cave room with all the amenities of modern accommodation.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Istanbul: An immersive digital experience through the iconic structure's rich past, showcasing its transformation from a Byzantine cathedral to an Ottoman mosque and now a museum, with captivating exhibits and architectural wonders.
Istanbul: Journey through time with a visit to Hagia Sophia, take a unique glimpse into the complex layers of Istanbul's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Cappadocia: Join a Cappadocian local, who has lived in the city for decades and take a tour of their cave house to learn more about their unique way of life.
Ayvalik: Visit the Copmadam workshop, where one-of-a-kind items are made from recycled packaging, creating employment opportunities for local women. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality.
Gallipoli: Pay your respects at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery.
Troy: Visit this ancient sight fabled to have been destroyed over love and view the huge reconstructed Trojan Horse.
Ephesus: Visit the Archaeological museum housing many of the artefacts from Ephesus.
Ephesus: Discover one of the world's finest ancient sites. Led by your Local Expert, walk the Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and Amphitheatre and visit the Palace of Knossos.
Pamukkale: See the cascading Cotton Castle of milky white travertine pools and the ancient ruin of Hierapolis.
Konya: Visit a well preserved Seljuk Caravanserai.
Saratli: Visit Saratli Underground city known for its fine arts architecture.
Göreme: With your Local Expert, explore the underground cities, rock-cut churches, fairy-tale chimneys and the Pasabag Valley.
Learn about the ancient art of pottery making in Avanos.
Ankara: Discover the mysterious Hittite civilisation and visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk.
Istanbul: Visit the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. With your Local Expert, gain insight into the lives of the Ottoman Sultans during a visit to the fabulous Topkapi Palace. Then stroll through the Grand Bazaar.
Istanbul: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus in Istanbul, where you'll pass Ottoman palaces, old mansions and fortresses.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul
- Istanbul - Arrival day
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- Palm Square
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Welcome to the enchanting city of Istanbul, where East meets West. Upon your arrival, a representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, such as the Hilton (or similar). Settle into your accommodations and unwind before meeting your Travel Director and fellow adventurers for a delightful dinner. This evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul, a city that uniquely bridges two continents.
Day 2 – Day 2: Istanbul to Gallipoli and Troy
- Istanbul
- Çanakkale
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- Akbas cemetary
- Lone Pine
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Embark on a scenic journey from Istanbul along the Sea of Marmara to the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. Here, delve into the poignant history of World War I at Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery. Continue your exploration as you cross the Dardanelles to Çanakkale, and then to the legendary city of Troy. Discover the tales of the Trojan War and marvel at the replica of the iconic Trojan Horse. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in this region steeped in history.
Day 3 – Day 3: Çanakkale to Izmir
- Çanakkale
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- İzmir Wildlife Park
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Begin your day with a visit to Copmadam, a women's cooperative dedicated to creating unique items from recycled materials. This inspiring initiative addresses women's employment issues and offers a meaningful cultural experience. Continue your journey to Izmir, where you'll enjoy a Farm-to-Table lunch at Nif Bağları, a family-owned winery. Explore the lush vineyards and savor the local flavors before heading to your coastal resort in Izmir for a relaxing evening.
Day 4 – Day 4: Izmir to Selçuk
- Selçuk
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- El Heykeli
- House of Virgin Mary
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum
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Set off for the charming town of Selçuk, where history comes alive. Begin your exploration at the Archaeological Museum, home to fascinating artifacts from the nearby Ephesus excavation site. Immerse yourself in the ancient world as you wander through the ruins of Ephesus, marveling at the Library of Celsus and the grand Amphitheatre. Conclude your day with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a serene site nestled above the Ephesus ruins. Return to Izmir for a restful night.
Day 5 – Day 5: Izmir to Pamukkale
- Pamukkale
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- Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
- Pamukkale Turkey
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Journey to the breathtaking natural wonder of Pamukkale, renowned for its mineral-rich thermal waters and stunning white terraces. Explore the ancient Roman spa city of Hierapolis, where you'll discover well-preserved ruins and turquoise travertine pools. After a day of exploration, unwind at your hotel, the Doğa Thermal Health & Spa (or similar), and indulge in its luxurious thermal pools, steam room, and Turkish bath complex.
Day 6 – Day 6: Pamukkale to Urgup
- Pamukkale
- Urgup
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- Sultanhanı Caravanserai
- Kaymaklı Underground City
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Today, travel to the captivating town of Urgup, nestled in the heart of Cappadocia. En route, visit the 13th-century Sultanhani Caravanserai, a historic stop for ancient traders. Continue to the fascinating underground city of Saratli, where you'll explore its labyrinthine tunnels and chambers. Arrive in Urgup, surrounded by the region's iconic golden volcanic landscapes, and settle into your accommodations for the night.
Day 7 – Day 7: Urgup to Göreme
- Urgup
- Göreme
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- Pigeon Valley
- Güray Müze
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Venture into the mesmerizing landscapes of Göreme, where you'll explore rock-hewn churches adorned with ancient frescoes. Continue to the Pasabag Valley, famous for its otherworldly 'fairy chimneys' and troglodyte dwellings. Later, meet a local Cappadocian resident who will guide you through their unique cave house, sharing insights into their way of life and traditions. In the evening, witness the enchanting performance of the Whirling Dervishes before enjoying a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 8 – Day 8: Göreme to Ankara
- Göreme
- Avanos
- Ankara
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- Ankara Vakıf Museum
- Column of Julian
- Çat Kasabası
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Begin your day in Avanos, a town renowned for its exquisite pottery. Discover the art of pottery making and perhaps try your hand at crafting your own masterpiece. Continue your journey to Ankara, Turkey's vibrant capital. Here, visit the Hittite Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts from ancient Anatolian civilizations. Pay homage to Turkey's founding father at the Mausoleum of Atatürk. In the evening, relax and rejuvenate at your hotel's spa and wellness center.
Day 9 – Day 9: Ankara to Istanbul
- Ankara
- Istanbul
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- Grand Bazaar
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Return to the bustling metropolis of Istanbul, a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Spend your day exploring the vibrant streets and indulge in some retail therapy at the Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle for unique treasures. With the evening at your leisure, savor the diverse culinary delights of Istanbul or simply relax and soak in the city's dynamic atmosphere.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discover Istanbul
- Istanbul
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- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Hagia Irene
- Topkapı Palace
- İstanbul Boğazı
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Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul as you visit the iconic Blue Mosque and the ancient Hippodrome, once the site of thrilling chariot races. Explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, with the option to experience its history through a digital journey or a traditional visit. Discover the opulent Topkapi Palace, perched above the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Conclude your day with a relaxing cruise along the Bosphorus, passing by Ottoman palaces and historic mansions. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 11 – Day 11: Farewell Istanbul
- Istanbul - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey through Turkey comes to a close, bid farewell to your newfound friends. A transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flights. For those extending their stay in Istanbul, your Travel Director will be happy to provide recommendations for further exploration and enjoyment in this captivating city.
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