Classic Turkey Tour (8 Days – 7 Nights)
DAY 1: ISTANBUL
Welcome to Istanbul, Turkey. Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport, we will transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 2: ISTANBUL
Let’s embark on an exploration of Istanbul. Our first stop is the Hippodrome, once the epicenter of sports activities in Constantinople, renowned for its four monuments: The German Fountain of Wilhelm II, the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column, and the Column of Constantine.
Next, we visit Hagia Sophia, Turkey’s most renowned museum and a masterpiece of architecture. Originally constructed as a church in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it was converted into a mosque in 1453 by Ottoman Emperor Fatih Sultan Mehmet, and now stands as a museum, welcoming visitors from all around the world. (Closed on Mondays)
Then, we explore the Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultanahmet Mosque, a majestic Ottoman structure distinguished by its six minarets. (Closed on Fridays)
We continue to the Topkapi Palace, a symbol of Ottoman grandeur and once the residence of the Ottoman dynasty. Here, we delve into the palace’s history, including its sacred Islamic relics, palace kitchens, and armory. (Closed on Tuesdays)
Finally, we immerse ourselves in the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul’s largest market and a treasure trove of shopping opportunities, offering everything from carpets and leather goods to jewelry and Turkish delight. (Closed on Sundays)
Overnight stay in Istanbul.
DAY 3: ISTANBUL – EPHESUS
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight to Izmir. Upon arrival, our tour guide will meet you, and we’ll proceed to Ephesus. Once the second-largest city in the Roman Empire with a population exceeding 250,000, Ephesus boasts remarkable historical significance as a harbor city and was constructed entirely of marble. Highlights of our visit include the monumental amphitheater, Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the World), and the House of Virgin Mary.
After the tour, we return to Kusadasi for an overnight stay.
DAY 4: PAMUKKALE
Today, we depart for Pamukkale, renowned as the “Cotton Castle” due to its stunning white mineral bath spas. Here, amidst the calcium-rich landscape, we’ll explore Hierapolis, an ancient spa town with significant historical and religious importance. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hierapolis is home to a vast necropolis housing the sarcophagi of notable figures like Marcus Aurelius.
After the tour, we return to Kusadasi for another overnight stay.
DAY 5: IZMIR – CAPPADOCIA
Early in the morning, we transfer to Izmir Airport for your flight to Kayseri. Upon arrival, we embark on a full-day tour of Cappadocia, starting with the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Byzantine Orthodox churches. We’ll also visit Uchisar Castle, renowned for its interconnected rooms carved into the rock.
Following a lunch break, we’ll explore Pasabagi (Monks Valley), known for its unique mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys, and Avanos, famous for its pottery. Our tour concludes with a visit to Devrent Valley, renowned for its surreal landscape.
Overnight stay in Cappadocia.
DAY 6: CAPPADOCIA
After breakfast, we’ll venture to Cavusin Village (Rose Valley), famed for its fairy chimneys and ancient churches. We’ll also visit Ortahisar Castle, similar in style to Uchisar Castle, and the Kaymakli Underground City, offering insights into early Christian life.
En route back, we’ll explore the panoramic Pigeon Valley, where pigeons played a vital role in local agriculture.
Another overnight stay in Cappadocia.
DAY 7: CAPPADOCIA-ISTANBUL
We’ll transfer you to the airport for your morning flight back to Istanbul.
Upon arrival, we’ll embark on a Bosphorus cruise, offering breathtaking views of Istanbul’s skyline as we navigate between Europe and Asia. Highlights include Dolmabahce Palace and Beylerbeyi Palace.
Next, we’ll visit Pierre Loti Hill, named by a French author enamored with Ottoman culture. Here, you’ll enjoy a cable car ride overlooking the Golden Horn, an essential waterway shaping Istanbul’s development.
Overnight stay in Istanbul.
DAY 8: ISTANBUL
You’ll have free time until your flight departure. We’ll transfer you to Istanbul Airport for your journey home.
Recommended Stores to Visit:
- Traditional Turkish Carpet Weaving Workshops: Experience the art of traditional Turkish carpet weaving, where wool yarns are naturally dyed with alizarins. Enjoy a glass of tea while admiring the hypnotic clatter of hand weaving looms.
- Ceramic Workshops in Selçuk: Explore the ancient art of ceramics, dating back to the time of Ephesus. Witness skilled artisans at work, creating beautiful ceramic artifacts.
- Leather Factories: Discover premium-grade leather goods crafted using traditional methods. From jackets to shoes and belts, Turkey offers an array of stylish leather products.
- Onyx Demonstration in Cappadocia: Learn about the craftsmanship behind exquisite onyx products, including jewelry, vases, and chess sets, made from the highest quality onyx found in the region.
