Highlights of Turkey

Ideally suited to the first-time traveler to Turkey, this itinerary combines one of the world’s great cities with ancient Roman ruins and natural wonders. Explore historical Istanbul at the crossroads of civilizations — where West meets East. Travel to the Aegean region and uncover ancient treasures in Ephesus and Pergamum. Continue to magical Cappadocia, where the usual fairy-like landscape will capture your imagination and create memories to last a lifetime. 

Day 1 Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul where you are welcomed by your guide who gives you an overview of the city as you transfer to your selected hotel.

Day 2 Istanbul

Learn about Turkey’s colorful history from your guide as you tour the Old City, Sultanahmet. Stand in the ancient Roman Hippodrome, once a chariot racetrack, and marvel at the 3,500-year-old Egyptian Obelisk. Visit the architectural wonder, Hagia Sophia, the famed Blue Mosque with its iconic six minarets, and the 6th-century underground Basilica Cistern. After lunch, tour the legendary Topkapi Palace overlooking the Bosphorus.

Day 3 Istanbul

See the 5th-century city walls en route to the 11th-century Chora Church whose walls and ceilings are lined with exquisite frescoes and mosaics. Visit the awe inspiring Suleymaniye Mosque and Rustem Pasha Mosque. Taste authentic Ottoman cuisine in an historical restaurant. Then, explore the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of the Ancient Orient.

Day 4 Istanbul

Visit the magnificent 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace and marvel at its incredible crystal chandeliers. Take a cruise on the Bosphorus and see marble palaces, 15th-century fortresses and small fishing villages along its shores. Back in the Old City, browse the famous 15th-century Grand Covered Bazaar and its over 4,000 shops.

Day 5 Izmir & Ephesus

Fly to Izmir and take a full-day excursion to ancient Ephesus. Tour the impressive theatre, Marble Street, Celsus Library and Temple of Hadrian. Visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. After lunch, browse the Archaeological Museum, where many artifacts found in Ephesus are housed. Continue to the Basilica of St. John and the “House of the Virgin Mary” before returning to Izmir and your hotel.

Day 6 Pergamum

After breakfast, depart for the ancient Greek city of Pergamum dating back to the Hellenistic period. See the impressive theatre with the steepest seating known in the ancient world, the Sanctuary of Athena, the temples of Trajan and Dionysus, and the remains of the celebrated library. Visit the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museum. Take a panoramic tour of Izmir before flying on to Kayseri in the ancient region of Cappadocia and your selected hotel.

Day 7 Cappadocia

Be captivated by the spectacular pillars, cones and “fairy chimneys;” the remarkable result of a process which began millions of years ago when volcanoes erupted in the area. Tour Goreme Valley’s Open-Air Museum filled with exquisite examples of rock churches and monasteries richly decorated with colorful frescoes.

Day 8 Cappadocia

After breakfast, drive to the Kaymakli Underground City, one of the largest underground settlements in the region whose tunnels are still used today as storage areas, stables and cellars. Also visit Pashabag, the most impressive of the “fairy chimneys,” wander through the charming town of Avanos, and then stop at C¸avus¸in where you find an impressive triple apse church. Return to your hotel and get ready to bid farewell to this fascinating part of the world.

Day 9 Istanbul & Homeward Bound

Early transfer to the airport for your departure to Istanbul and onward flight home or to your next destination.