Jewish Heritage Grand Tour

Days 1 Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul and tour the Kuledibi district, home to a large Jewish population until the mid-1960’s. Visit several historical synagogues, including the Zulfaris Synagogue which is now the 500th Year Museum.

Travel to the Golden Horn; see the ancient Ahrida Synagogu and enjoy the view from Piyer Loti’s Cafe.

Day 2 Istanbul

Visit the Jewish High School at Ulus and Beth Israel Synagogue at Osmanbey. Continue to Ortaköy and Kuzguncuk where you see synagogues, churches and mosques all within a radius of 100 meters.

Day 3 Edrine

Drive to Edirne, a former capital city of the Ottoman Empire. Visit the historical synagogue, the 16th century Ottoman Selimiye Mosque, and the Behai Gardens.

Day 4 Gallipoli/ Canakkale /Troy

Visit the Gallipoli War Graves then cross the strait to Anatolia and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Troy.

Day 5 Pergamum and Ephesus

Discover the amazing antiquities of Pergamum, Sardis and Ephesus, including the Temple of Diana, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Overnight in the seaport of Kuşadası.

DAY 6 Izmir

Drive to Izmir and visit Kadifekale (Mount Pagos), the ancient Agora and Beth Israel Synagogue.

DAY 7 Bursa

Travel northeast to Bursa, the ancient capital of the Ottomans before İstanbul. Visit the 15th-century Yesil Cami and Ulu Cami and then continue to the historical silk market at Koza Han. End the day at the Towel works showroom and shop for world famous Turkish bathrobes and towels.

DAY 8 Istanbul and homeward bound

Return to Istanbul and your flight home or to your next destination.