Jewish Heritage in Istanbul & Izmir

Turkey has been home to Jewish communities for at least 2,400 years. Immerse yourself in the long history of Jews in Turkey on this tour of historic synagogues in Istanbul and Western Anatolia.

Days 1 – 3 Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul where you are welcomed, and transfer to your hotel. Spend a full day visiting the fabulous sights in this cosmopolitan city of blended cultures. See the Topkapi Palace, former home to Ottoman Sultans, with its remarkable treasury and fascinating harem. After lunch, visit the great Byzantine basilica of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Hippodrome. End the day browsing through the Grand Covered Bazaar and be amazed at the thousands of shops.

Day 3 Istanbul

Cruise along the Bosphorus from the Sea of Marmara to the entrance of the Black Sea. Along the way, view summer palaces of the Ottoman Sultans and Viziers, modern residences and the Fortress of Rumeli Hisar, built in 1452 by Mehmed the Conqueror. Cross the bridge to the Asian side of Istanbul to visit the synagogues of Kadiköy Hemdat Israel and Kuzguncuk Beth-Yaakov.

Day 4 Istanbul

Discover Jewish heritage in Istanbul. Ancestors of the Jewish community emigrated from Spain over 500 years ago and left a wealth of synagogues, hospitals, literature and music. Explore the synagogues in Istanbul on both sides of the Bosphorus. Begin with a visit to the Kuledibi area surrounding the Galata Tower. Tour the Neve Shalom Synagogue and learn of its short, tragic history. Nearby are the exquisite Italian and Ashkenazi Synagogues dating to the mid-18th century. Continue along the Golden Horn and see the ancient Ahrida Synagogue. Visit the modern Beth Israel Synagogue at Osmanbey in the center of modern Istanbul and explore the two districts of Ortakoy and Kuzguncuk where synagogues, mosques and churches are neighbors living in ecclesiastical harmony.

Day 5 Izmir

Fly to Izmir, Turkey’s second-largest port, and transfer to your hotel. Take a panoramic tour of the Aegean city, whose history dates back over 3,500 years. Visit the synagogues of Beyt Israel, Saar Asamayim, Berko-Holim, Etz Hayim, and Salom. Overnight in Izmir.

Day 6 Ephesus

Spend a full day exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus. Walk through the marble streets lined with temples, theatres, gymnasiums and baths. Then, visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum at Selçuk. Return to Izmir for overnight.

Days 7 & 8 Sardis & Izmir

Take an excursion to the recently excavated site of Sardis, city of Croesus and his legendary wealth. See the great gymnasium and the impressive ancient synagogue. Overnight in Izmir, and transfer to the airport for your departure flight to your next destination.